Hardingsummergn2016

GENERAL NEWS Harding Academy

Nurturing the Spirit • Inspiring the Mind

Creativity Rules!

INSIDE

SUMMER 2016

Harding’s Imagination Lab inspires young minds

Athletic Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

[The last of a four-part series that began with the Fall 2015 issue of the General News]

John Gorham Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Grades 5–8 Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Graduation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Art Awards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Class Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9–11 Distinguished Alum Jenny Boucek ’88 . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Songwriters Night. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

CALENDAR August 18 First Day of School August 27 All-School Picnic August 30 1–4 Back to School Night September 6 K, 5–8 Back to School Night September 13 Circle of Stars Donor Event September 15 PreK Back to School Night September 22 Annual Photo of Children of Alumni September 27–28 Parent/Teacher Conferences October 1 Sibling and Legacy Admission Application Deadline October 4–5 Book Fair October 5 Head of School Donor Dinner October 7–8 Fall Musical: The Sound of Music October 10 G. Alexander Martin Memorial Golf Event October 13–14 Fall Break October 18 High School Fair Check www.hardingacademy.org Calendar for up-to-date event times and locations.

Housed in the Creativity Center, the school’s iLab was dedicated to departing Head of School Ian Craig.

by Fran

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Scott

eing creative. Thinking outside the box.

Trying something different. Learning from success and failure. These educational concepts have been common themes in the General News’s series on developing 21st-century skills.

Nowhere are they epitomized more than in Harding’s Imagination Lab, or iLab, which is the formal classroom for the school’s new Creativity Center.

The iLab was the vision of departing Head of School Ian Craig, who researched various makerspaces in designing a classroom at Harding like no other: The iLab is where creativity rules.

Craig invited faculty to accompany him when he visited other schools so they could better understand how to encourage and aid students in using such a space. Thanks to a generous group of donors, Craig’s

vision has become a reality at Harding, and the iLab has become awash with a flurry of activity.

The hallway that is the Creativity Center is painted in bright chartreuse. Shiny sheet metal covers the entire length of the hall, and is used by students and visitors alike to create marble runs using magnetized chutes. With a nod to Rube Goldberg, the creative goal is to engineer a run that could take a marble from one end to the other without stopping. At the far end, the iLab’s large windows invite visiters to peer in on creativity at work or enter to undertake one’s own creative quest.

Inside, numerous bins are filled with parts, tools, and all manner of objects from paper, wood, and glue to sticky notes, beads, Popsicle sticks, and Play-Doh. These items await the cleverness and craftsmanship of Harding’s students to morph them into prototypes and projects that can be challenging but fun. Two 3D printers are busy at work, turning ideas continued on page 3

Leadership

We Are ALL Fundraisers

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hen a person is passionate about a place as special as Harding Academy, they tell other people and hope to get them involved. They share the good news about the wonderful things happening on our campus, in our classrooms, and out in our community. And as Harding community members, we all share a common passion for Harding. We are part of the team. We care deeply about this place and we are excited to tell people about it, and that makes us all fundraisers.

Most people have a general understanding that fundraising is when individuals are asked to give money to causes. Other than that, they may not fully understand why philanthropy is so important to the life of Harding. It starts with telling them, “We are all fundraisers—even you.”

As you read the title of this article you might say to yourself, “Who, me? A fundraiser? What do you mean?” In reality, we fundraise all the time.

Together, we are Harding’s best and most important advocates because we are committed to the school, our students, and the people who make it great. People have an unwavering devotion to Harding, and have for a long time. By advancing the mission and vision of our school, we are “standing on the shoulders of giants” who came before us, and preparing the landscape—far into the future—for those who will come after us.

We need you involved as we remember our important past, and as we plan our future successes. By connecting people to the school—whether sharing a story, suggesting an admissions tour, or volunteering at the Harding Art Show—you are Harding’s ambassador.

Your posts on Facebook, your conversations at the pool and sporting events, the magnet on your car, your Harding t-shirt—all of these invite a conversation about Harding, even within our own community.

As you talk to other alumni, parents, and grandparents about what Harding means to your family, you are building momentum. They love Harding, too, and your conversation makes them think: “I want to be a part of that success.” So when the Annual Fund mailer arrives, or when the call for a visit about the school is made, the seed has already been planted by you, our fundraiser.

With a healthy spirit of philanthropy, Harding will continue to grow and compete locally while remaining a national leader in the Pre-K through 8 education arena. Longevity and sustainability are crucial as we prosper in the bountiful times and weather the lean ones. Like most independent schools, tuition doesn’t cover Harding’s operating costs, so the Annual Fund—your first and most important gift to Harding—ensures we have day-to-day funding to provide an excellent educational experience for our students and families. To remain sustainable, Harding requires a diverse donor base that provides longterm support. A reliable fundraising plan allows us to look far into the future and ask ourselves: “Where do we want Harding to be in five years? Ten? Twenty? And how much money allows us to realize our goals?”

Your shared passion for Harding truly is the heart of our school. Just as you are helping admissions by referring a family to take a tour, you are also a fundraiser. We all are.

In the advancement office, our main priority is connecting people with their passion. In this case, that shared passion is Harding. One of our objectives is to all work together to underwrite our school’s success.

Our office cannot do it alone. No one can. It’s impossible. It truly is about the relationships and the connections. We don’t have all the connections. You help with that.

We have a “manifesto” outside our office that guides us on a daily basis, and reminds us of why we do what we do for Harding. Most importantly to us, our manifesto ends with one word: “Welcome.”

Welcome to fundraising, folks. We are very glad you are here.

Twenty-Four Harding Seventh Graders Qualify for Recognition on the ACT Thirty-nine Harding seventh grade students took the ACT. Twenty-four of them scored in the top 40 percent of all talent search participants and qualified for state recognition. Of those 24 Harding students, three also qualified for national recognition by scoring in the top four percent of all talent search participants.

State Recognition Qualifiers Isabel Arnold Gist Key Ruben Boero Josephine Lampka Keaton Bright Drew Lancaster Juliana Dougherty Mason McKee Greydon Franck Jackson A. Miller Andrew Garrett William Myers Lainey Garside Brandon Pensinger Archer Heeren Alice Scarpero Madelina Huffman William Vreeland Caroline Humphrey Rachel Westerfield Ian Jaffe State and National Recognition Qualifiers Macy Gilmour Claire Humphrey Natalie Wright The award ceremonies for the state winners took place on May 9, at Belmont University and for the national winners at Duke University on May 16.

For more information on the Duke TIP program and the qualifying events required to be invited to take the ACT, visit tip.duke.edu.

GENERAL NEWS Editors: Deb Anderson Faulkner and Leslie Virostek Class Notes: Katherine Lay Miller Contributors: Fran Scott and Leslie Virostek Photography: Steve Lowry, Kimberly Manz Design: Tracy Alia Web address: www.hardingacademy.org

Sheryl Rogers Director of Advancement

For information or submissions contact: Deb Anderson Faulkner, 615-387-6311

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Focus on Technology

Creativity Rules! continued from page 1 into tangible objects including the colorful camel, owl, building, and boats displayed along the windowsill.

“The iLab allows children to think outside the box and look at their own ideas and hands to work toward new beginnings and new solutions,” said lower school technology team leader Betsy Pylkas. “It’s a place where kids get to look at things differently and brainstorm to solve problems,” she added. Pylkas used the space with first graders during their penguin unit, letting them explore what a webcam is and look at several zoo cams across the globe that offer views of penguins. Then, they worked with partners to design their own penguin play areas. First and second graders learned to code using their laptops in the iLab and used the blue/green screens for class video projects.

History teacher Kim Keller explained that the iLab underscores the value Harding educators place on having students use their imagination, and that it lets them take risks. She said, “They can try something out to see if it works or fails.

When a student gets frustrated from failure, I remind him or her that excellence includes failure. I often say with a laugh that ‘I try to make five mistakes a day, and I usually succeed.’” Keller had seventh grade economics students use the area as a “Shark Tank,” the popular ABC television series, to design their own products for review. She agrees with the wall poster in the space that says: “Life is all about making mistakes and learning from them.”

In one “epic fail,” Keller described how students wanted to use a stencil and some cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa to put such messages as “Have a happy day!” or “Will you marry me?” on the foam of cups of latte or cappuccino.

Ultimately, they learned that poster board was the best medium for the stencil. Keller also noted how Check for up-to-date event times and locations Also follow us on

@HardingAcademy @HardingAthletix There are also group fan pages for Harding Academy Harding Academy of Nashville Alumni Harding Art Show Harding Academy Summer Programs

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A demonstration of the 3D printer

Seventh grade inventors Drew Lancaster, William Vreeland, and Luke Haley worked together in the iLab to create fortune popsicles for a “Shark Tank” project.

three seventh grade inventors worked together to create fortune popsicles. They learned that tiny paper muffin cups were required to keep the popsicle from dripping onto hands. They found that adding a dowel in which to embed a fortune that could be revealed once the flavored ice had been eaten was a good solution. Beyond that they learned that problem-solving is a creative endeavor.

The iLab is just one more way that Harding is inspiring the minds of young students. Keller says she envisions how it can be used with the school’s buddy program, where middle and lower school

students will work together to inspire each other.

Betsy Pylkas said the iLab offers endless possibilities. She pondered, “Who knows where the next big idea will come from, if the next Steve Jobs is in our midst, or even the cure for worldwide safe water will come from one of our students?” Whatever may emerge from the iLab, one thing’s for certain: With its attention to design thinking, robotics, and programming, Harding Academy is making sure to build into its curriculum and classrooms a focus on 21st-century skills. u

Harding’s Imagination Lab Honors Ian Craig

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n a sunny May 15 afternoon, students, parents, and extended families joined Harding faculty and administrators to dedicate the iLab to its visionary—departing Head of School Ian Craig. Under Craig’s 10-year tutelage, the school experienced numerous building, grounds, and facility improvements and expanded its emphasis on developing 21st-century skills for its students. In presenting the iLab dedication plaque, which honors Craig “For his dedication and commitment to Harding Academy students and their learning,” Board of Trustees President Vic Gatto said Craig’s insightful imprint will be lasting at Harding. Gatto also thanked generous donors for providing the funds to make the iLab a reality. The iLab dedication was followed by a special farewell ceremony in the Henderson Theater, where Craig was honored with special remarks, an Alumni Association gift, and a Glee Club tribute.

Ian Craig and Vic Gatto

In conjunction with the dedication of the school’s iLab, members of the community wished a fond farewell to Ian Craig and wife Holly.

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2016 Awards

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2016

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Winter/Spring Athletic Awards Ellie Slagle ’16, girls basketball Most Valuable Player and Hustle Award recipient in girls lacrosse

Cheerleading

Head Coach—Nikki Boston Assistant Coach—Lauren Bidez Most Valuable Cheerleader—Catherine Derryberry ’16 Most Improved Cheerleader—Maria Weir ’17 Coaches Award—Anne McPeak ’16 Spirit Award—Holly Powell ’18

Girls Basketball

Head Coach—Chris Holleman Assistant Coach—Amanda Penecale Most Valuable Player—Ellie Slagle ’16 Most Improved Player—Lily Wilmoth ’16 Coaches Award—Ellie Frist ’16 Hustle Award—Claire Slagle ’18

Boys Basketball

2016 boys lacrosse Most Valuable Player, Hedges Hayworth ’16

Head Coach—Jason Embry Assistant Coach—Luke Countryman Most Valuable Player—Greydon Franck ’17 Most Improved Player—Cole Williamson ’16 Coaches Award—Wilson Berry ’16 Hustle Award—Alston Aron ’16

Swimming

Lily Wilmoth ’16, girls basketball Most Improved Player and girls lacrosse Most Valuable Player 2016 #1 Singles Tennis Tournament Champion and two-time boys tennis Most Valuable Player, Merritt Smith ’16 Wilson Berry ’16, basketball Coaches Award recipient and 2016 #3 Singles Tennis Tournament Champion

Head Coach—Jake Madden Assistant Coaches—Molly Willmore, Lexi Vasilikos Most Valuable Swimmer (Fall)—George Mabry ’16 Most Valuable Swimmer (Winter)—Carla Cohen ’16 Most Improved Swimmer (Fall)—Crissa Portis ’18 Most Improved Swimmer (Winter)—Darin Hall ’18 Coaches Award (Fall)—Caroline Stanley ’16 Coaches Award (Winter)—William Grobmyer ’18 Spirit Award (Fall)—Holly Powell ’18 Spirit Award (Winter)—Mika Gothard ’16 High Point Award—Lizza Hubbard ’16

Baseball

Head Coach—Fred Pisano; Assistant Coaches—Charles Maumus, Luke Countryman Most Valuable Player—Will Morrison ’17 Most Improved Player—Mason McKee ’17 Coaches Award—William Myers ’17 Hustle Award—Aidan Call ’17

Girls Lacrosse

Head Coach—Claire Gibson Assistant Coaches—Leslie Embry, Abby Buresh Most Valuable Player—Lily Wilmoth ’16 Most Improved Player—Caroline Frederiksen ’16 Coaches Award—Cooper Mae Cavallo ’16 Hustle Award—Ellie Slagle ’16

Boys Lacrosse

Sportsmanship Award winners Wilson Berry ‘16 (recipient of a Mention d’Honneur on the National French Exam, a President’s Award of Educational Excellence, and a Nine-Year Award) and Lily Wilmoth ‘16 (recipient of a Mencion Honorifica on the National Spanish Exam, a President’s Award of Educational Excellence, and a Nine-Year Award)

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Head Coach—Ian Craig Assistant Coaches—Gene Flathmann, Riley Macdonald Most Valuable Player—Hedges Hayworth ’16 Most Improved Player—Jonathan Coleman Coaches Award—George Mabry ’16 Hustle Award—Alston Aron ’16

Girls Tennis

Head Coach—Carol Macpherson Caldwell Assistant Coach—Holly Chastain Most Valuable Player—Lainey Garside ’17 Most Improved Player—Alice Scarpero ’17 Coaches Award—Ainsley Hanrahan ’16 Hustle Award—Meg Beuter ’16

Boys Tennis

Head Coach—Steve Stewart Most Valuable Player—Merritt Smith ’16 Most Improved Player—Darin Hall ’18 Most Improved Player—William Gu ’18 Coaches Award—Wilson Berry ’16

Track and Field

Head Coach—Jonathan Baldon Assistant Coach—Derek Reinhold Most Valuable Player—Ruben Boero ’17 Most Improved Award—Asher Maxwell ’18 Coaches Award—Andrew Garrett ’17 Hustle Award—Maria Carter ’18

LEAGUE RECOGNITION Team 2016 Girls Varsity Basketball GNAC Champions 2016 Boys Varsity Basketball GNAC Runners-Up 2016 Girls Tennis Tournament Runners-Up 2016 Boys Tennis Tournament Champions

Individual Lizza Hubbard ’16— HVAC Swimming Champion, 200 Free George Mabry ’16— HVAC Swimming Champion, 50 Free Will Wheeler ’16— HVAC Swimming Champion, 100 Free Will Wheeler ’16, George Mabry ’16, Greydon Franck ’17, and James Johnson ’18 —HVAC Swimming Champions, 200 Free Relay Lainey Garside ’17—#3 Singles Tennis Champion Meg Beuter ’16 and Brittany Griffin ’16— #2 Doubles Tennis Champion Merritt Smith ’16—#1 Singles Tennis Champion Wilson Berry ’16—#3 Singles Tennis Champion Darin Hall ’18 and William Gu ’18— #1 Doubles Tennis Champion

All-Conference Selections Ellie Slagle ’16—1st Team All-Conference, Girls Basketball Lily Wilmoth ’16—1st Team All-Conference, Girls Basketball Olivia Craig ’18—1st Team All-Conference, Girls Basketball Greydon Franck ’17—1st Team All-Conference, Boys Basketball Alston Aron ’16—Honorable Mention All-Conference, Boys Basketball Aiden Call ’17—MTIBL 1st Team All-Conference, Baseball William Myers ’17—MTIBL 1st Team All-Conference, Baseball

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Awards

Four-Season Varsity Athletes Harding congratulates the following students who participated on a varsity team in each of the school’s four athletic seasons during the 2015–16 school year.

Harrison Mabry ’18 Asher Maxwell ’18 Holly Powell ’18 Ryan Schmadtke ’18 Reid Buschmann ’17 Mason McKee ’17 Greydon Franck ’17 Alston Aron ’16 Sydney Fowlkes ’16 Mika Gothard ’16 Brittney Griffin ’16 Ainsely Hanrahan ’16 Hedges Hayworth ’16 Ellie Slagle ’16 Cole Williamson ’16 Wilson Berry ’16 George Mabry ’16 Haynes Owen ’16 Will Wheeler ’16

Faculty Profile

John Gorham

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them to better prepare themselves.” arding pre-algebra and algebra Ultimately he hopes his students will teacher John Gorham has more believe that he has “given them every than half a century of chance possible” to succeed. He adds, “I experience, having taught at half a dozen also hope that they think I have been fair schools over the years and having coached to them.” all kinds of sports from swimming, Although John is well known at wrestling, and cross country to football, Harding, having taught here for 10 years, baseball, basketball, and lacrosse. Through there is more to him than meets the eye. all of the variables of his wide-ranging Education: John earned his bachelor’s degree Fun facts include that he received the career, there have been a few constants. from Vanderbilt University after Tennessee Association of Independent One is that he is a “people person,” having spent his first two years of Schools’ Hubert Smothers Award for something he realized after a brief stint college at Notre Dame. He also Excellence in Teaching in 2002; that he working in the transit department of a has a master’s degree in bank after graduation from college. The education from Middle Tennessee helped to start the first swimming club in Nashville; that after establishing the first other is that teaching does not feel like a State University. lacrosse team at Father Ryan High School job. “I don’t consider teaching as work,” Experience: (his alma mater), he guided subsequent he says. “To me, teaching is fun. I’ve often Before coming to Harding in teams to two state championships in six said that in teaching, no two days are 2006, John taught and coached at St. Henry School, Bellevue High years; that he plays the ukulele; that he is alike.”

School, Hunters Lane High a fused-glass artist; and that he and wife Although never knowing what to School, Williamson County Kathie have five children and 12 expect from his middle school students schools (as a substitute), and grandchildren. keeps things interesting, John says that Father Ryan, where he also did a A self-described “very simple person,” being consistent is one of the best things stint as athletic director and head John says his future plans are to continue he can do as a teacher. He notes, “I think of the math department. to teach with a very simple job philosophy: that guiding students to discover for “I’m just trying to do the best at everything I do.” u themselves what skills are required for a test or quiz helps

Accelerated Reader Special Award 4—2nd place: Gabriel Nizzardo (559.0)

Continental Math League Medal Winners 2— Charlie Carson, Max Dougherty, Emerson Smith; Certificates—Neko Bernard-Mannes, Ben Ferri, Lulu Kohler, Garrett Lee 3— Davis Dove, Will Glover; Certificates— Sawyer Beckwith, Brian Tierney, Meg Winston 4— Henry Leschen, Cole Patterson; Certificates— Eli Galentino, Kenya Gothard, Riley Jones, Raleigh Maxwell

Physical Education Awards K— Chloe Hogg, Naomi Infante, Claire McDaniel, Takoda Robinson, Cole Tomichek, William White 1— Eliya Brandes, Chase Embry, Jack Lucas, Eliza Mason, Daniel Maumus, Lauren Sullivan 2— Ellie Caldwell, Ben Ferri, Eleanor Lampley, Samantha Parker, Jack Powell, Thomas Rutter 3— Owen Hall, Jack Howard, Grace Lucas, Alex Maddox, Maia McCourt, Katherine Thomas

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Spanish

2016 AWARDS ASSEMBLY FOR GRADES K–4

K—Cian Corby, Claire McDaniel 1—Enno Brandes, Hudsyn Waddey 2—Hudson Drake, Lulu Kohler 3—Graham Smith, Meg Winston

Technology K—Henry Anderson, Claire McDaniel, William White 1—Elizabeth Eyler, Eliza Mason, Ethan Moore 2— Charlie Carson, Reagan Militante, Emerson Smith 3—Kate Leschen, C.C. Thrasher, Draper Witherspoon

Presented by Spanish teacher Laura McCarley, a Spanish award went to first graders Enno Brandes and Hudsyn Waddey.

Fourth Grade Outstanding Student Awards English Writing Math Music Physical Education Science Social Studies

Spanish Technology Effort and Achievement Outstanding Citizen

Kenya Gothard, Margaret Grobmyer Carly Frist, Henry Leschen, Cole Patterson Eli Galentino, Bella Infante Presented by Tyler Raiman Lower School Maddy Hartleroad, Tyler Raiman Director Laura Cole Patterson Underwood, Campbell Bodzy, Henry Leschen, fourth graders Raleigh Maxwell Gennie Philpott Jackson H. Miller, Colton White and Tyler Grace Boero, Cole Patterson Raiman received Olanimi Okewusi the Outstanding Gennie Philpott, Tyler Raiman Citizen Award.

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2016 Awards

AWARD RECIPIENTS

2016 AWARDS ASSEMBLY FOR GRADES 5–8 Kindergarten buddy Chloe Hogg participated in the Rose Ceremony with Isabel Long who received a Continental Math League certificate, a Mention d’Honneur on the National French Exam, a President’s Award of Educational Excellence, the Band Award, the Geraldine Swystun English Award, and a Nine-Year Award.

Kindergarten buddy Hilary Freemont participated in the Rose Ceremony with Ellie Frist who received a Continental Math League certificate, a Medaille de Bronze on the National French Exam, a President’s Award of Educational Excellence, the History Award, the Alumni Citizenship Award, and a Nine-Year Award.

Accelerated Reader 5—Adam Wang (807 first place)

Continental Math League Medal Winners 5— Alex Wang; Certificates—Tommy Carson, Chase Fields, Anna Lindsley, and Chase Thor 6— Ryan Schmadtke; Certificates—William Gu, Adam Wang, and Asher Maxwell 7— William Myers; Certificates—Greydon Franck, C.H. Henry, Brandon Pensinger,and Natalie Wright 8— Daniel McGuire; Certificates—Isabel Long, Emma Mirnics, and Ellie Frist

National French Exam 7— Mention d’Honneur Caroline Humphrey (10th in state), Claire Humphrey (10th in state), Juliana Dougherty, and Macy Gilmour 8— Mention d’Honneur Meg Beuter, Wilson Berry, Carrie Cohen, Connar Calhoun, Ainsley Hanrahan, and Isabel Long; Medaille de Bronze Ellie Frist (14th in nation) and Annie Griffin (13th in nation) National Latin Exam 7— Latin Outstanding Achievement Natalie Wright; Certificate of Merit Greydon Franck, Mason McKee 8— Summa Cum Laude Hedges Hayworth, Daniel McGuire, and Haynes Owen; Maxima Cum Laude Copper Mae Cavallo, Mika Gothard, and Emma Mirnics; Magna Cum Laude Alston Aron, George Mabry, Anne McPeak, Alex Ray, Ellie Slagle, Merritt Smith, and Cole Williamson

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Outstanding Student Awards Band 5— Kieran McCourt 6—Joseph Dattilo 7—Greydon Franck

Kindergarten buddies Elijah Johnson and Mills Greene participated in the Rose Cermony with Daniel McGuire who received the Continental Math League Medal, a Summa Cum Laude on the National Latin Exam, the Latin Award, and a Nine-Year Award.

National Spanish Exam 7— Premio de Plata Isabelle Arnold and Ruben Boero; Premio de Bronce Lainey Garside and Alice Scarpero; Mencion Honorifica Aidan Call, C.H. Henry, Falcon Hudson, Madelina Huffman, Max Keller, Drew Lancaster, Will Morrison, and William Myers 8— Primio de Oro Catarina Carter; Premio de Plata Emma Carlson and Lila Hunt; Mencion Honorifica Lydia Beachum. Caroline Frederiksen, Madeline Wall, and Lily Wilmoth

President’s Award of Educational Excellence 5— Jackson Allen, Tommy Carson, Jonathan ChungBruehl, Conor Corby, Francesca Denison, Caroline Duncan, Chase Fields, Jack Forbes, Jake Frazier, Avery Hassan, Mark Ryan Henderson, Ella Howard, Owen Irving, Sadie James, Walker Lindsey, Anna Lindsley, Grace Moore, Claire Nord, Lain Orndorff, Quinn Powers, Lilly Rauth, Miles Scarpero, Grayson Soper, Nicholas Tesauro, Chase Thor, Alex Wang, and Stephanie Wilkinson 8— Wilson Berry, Meg Beuter, Cooper Mae Cavallo, Carrie Cohen, Ellie Frist, Mika Gothard, Annie Griffin, Ainsley Hanrahan, Lila Hunt, Isabel Long, Emma Mirnics, Merritt Smith, Cole Williamson, and Lily Wilmoth

President’s Academic Effort Award 5— Kendall Codispoti, Emmie Maumus, and Ava Sjursen 8—Caroline Frederiksen and Lizza Hubbard

Chorus 5— Conor Corby, Anna Lindsley 6—Bella McKay 7—Madelina Huffman English 5—Grace Moore 6—Ryan Schmadtke 7—Madelina Huffman Writing 5—Jonathan Chung-Bruehl 6—William Grobmyer 7—Ruben Boero French 7—Juliana Dougherty Latin 7—Natalie Wright Spanish 5—Ava Sjursen 7—Lainey Garside History 5—Ava Sjursen 6—Billy Jones 7—William Myers Math 5—Alex Wang 6—Adam Wang 7— Alice Scarpero Physical Education 5— Maggie Clark, Clayton Lee Science 5—Avery Hassan 6—Maria Carter 7—Alice Scarpero Technology 5—Chase Franck, Emmie Maumus Outstanding Citizen 5— Grace Moore, Miles Scarpero 6— William Grobmyer, Holly Powell 7— William Myers, Natalie Wright

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2016 Awards

AWARD RECIPIENTS GRADUATION

Carol Chambers Art Award Lila Hunt Band Award Isabel Long Chorus Award Julia Townsend Reese Witherspoon Drama Award Meg Beuter and Madeline Wall Andrew Potanin Creative Writing Award Ainsley Hanrahan Geraldine Swystun English Award Isabel Long Pam McKnight French Award Connar Calhoun Latin Award Daniel McGuire Spanish Award Catarina Carter History Award Ellie Frist Math Award Emma Mirnics Science Award Emma Mirnics School Spirit Award Alston Aron and Brittney Griffin Sportsmanship Award Wilson Berry and Lily Wilmoth Alumni Citizenship Award Ellie Frist Harding Scholar Meg Beuter and Emma Mirnics

Harding Scholars have earned the highest grade point average in their class.

Harding Scholar Emma Mirnics also received a certificate from the Continental Math League, a Maxima Cum Laude on the National Latin Exam, a President’s Award of Educational Excellence, the Math Award, the Science Award, and a Nine-Year Award.

Harding Scholar Meg Beuter also received a Mention d’Honneur on the National French Exam, a President’s Award of Educational Excellence, the Reese Witherspoon Drama Award, and a Nine-Year Award.

Nine-Year Awards John Alston Aron, Lydia Kate Beachum, Wilson Ivor Berry, Margaret Claire Beuter, Connar Elise Calhoun, Cooper Mae Cavallo, Cooper Haden Craig, Catherine Vire Derryberry, Anneliese Noel Evans, Sydney Lynn Fowlkes, Caroline Ray Frederiksen, Eleanor Knox Frist, Mika Lee Gothard, Anne Williams Griffin, Brittney Janay Griffin, Ainsley Rein Hanrahan, John Hedges Hayworth, William Parsons Higgins, Elizabeth Gray Hubbard, Lila Hope Hunt, Isabel Christian Long, George Buchnau Mabry, Zachary Graeme Pendlebury Macdonald, Daniel Williams McGuire, Emma Eva Mirnics, Edward Haynes Owen, Alexander Ivison Ray, Ellie Grace Slagle, Caroline Elizabeth Stanley, Emilija Larisa Vanagunas, William Dillon Wheeler, Charles Cole Williamson, and Lily Lee Wilmoth

Brooks and Pitts Retire

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ourth grade teacher Wendy Brooks and library assistant Neill Pitts retired at the end of the school year. Both received a warm end-of-year send-off during the last faculty meeting. Fellow fourth grade teacher Camille Gift led the tribute that reflected on Wendy’s 18 years of service. Gift said, “Wendy is an exceptional educator and has touched so many lives. She is so humble and never gives herself any credit for her achievements.”

Librarian Lisa Montgomery offered up these words about Neill’s 23 years at Harding: “For over two decades, you’ve made everyone feel welcome in the library, and you’ve treated everyone with respect. You’ve done your job with poise, care, and diligent attention to detail.” As a token of the school’s appreciation, Wendy received a Harding chair and Neill received a Harding rocking chair.

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School Spirit Award winners Alston Aron (recipient of a Magna Cum Laude on the National Latin Exam and a Nine-Year Award) and Brittney Griffin (recipient of a Nine-Year Award)

All members of the Harding Academy community are cordially invited to a reception to welcome David W. Skeen, Jr. as Harding Academy’s seventh Head of School Sunday, August 21, 2016 2:00 to 4:00 PM Henderson Theater Remarks at 3:00 PM Harding Academy

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2015 Awards

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ARTS AWARD RECIPIENTS

very student is an artist at Harding Academy, and each year the school proudly displays student work in gallery fashion on the walls of the Roberts Gymnasium and throughout the hallways in the Schwartz Center in the days leading up to the Harding Art Show.

During a special ceremony on May 2, many students were recognized for their outstanding artistic achievement.

Among the winners were this year's Annual Awards (professionally framed and on display at the school for two years) and Purchase Awards (professionally framed and part of the school's permanent collection) recipients.

Rising eighth grader Allison Lindsey received a Purchase Award for her Impressionism pastel.

2016 Holiday Card Stella Frisbee (K)—Texture Polar Bear Painting

2016 Grandparents Chocolate Invitation Henry Anderson (K) Line Painting

Rising fifth grader Grace Boero received a Purchase Award for her pattern landscape painting.

Grandparents Chocolate “Favor Art” Award Maggie Clark (5)—Pastel Castle

Harding Family Connection Card Max Baudenbacher (7) Impressionism Oil Pastel

Counseling Office Art Kenya Gothard (4)— Amate Painting Luke Haley (7)—Picasso Portrait

Annual Awards K–1—Gray Proctor (K) Line Painting 2–3—Graham Smith (3) Pointillism Landscape Painting 4–5 Raleigh Maxwell (4) Pagoda Print 6–8—Macy Gilmour (7) Pastel Castle

2016–17 Calendar

Awards

Cover

March 2017

Purchase Awards

Lindsey Hollomon (7) Brandon Pensinger (7) Ruben Boero (7)

Grace Boero (4) Pattern Landscape Painting Allison Lindsey (7) Impressionism Pastel

Ainsley Hanrahan (8) Lizza Hubbard (8) Haynes Owen (8) Sydney Fowlkes (8) Clay coil pots

Ava Saponari (8) Music City Charcoal

April 2017

September 2016

Sarah Brothers (3) and Margaret Rauth (3) Leaf Animals

Grade

August 2016

Featured Artists

Sophi Stankiewicz (4) Pattern Landscape Painting

Marcelo Prado Diaz Barreiro

Eliya Brandes (1) and George Boero (1) Van Gogh Sunflower

K Claire McDaniel and

1 Jayden Garcia and Hudsyn Waddey Grade 2 J.B. Frederiksen and Charlotte Mikos Grade 3 Davis Dove and Ryan Van Mol Grade 4 Eli Galentino and Lilya Zouaoui Grade 5 Ella Howard and Miles Scarpero Grade 6 Adam Wang and Patton Bone Grade 7 Greydon Franck and Rachel Westerfield Grade 8 Cooper Craig and Ainsley Hanrahan Grade

8 Harding Academy

October 2016

November 2016

Ellie Caldwell (2) Beastie Pastel Drawing December 2016

Madelina Huffmann (7) Polar Bear Batik January 2017

Jackson Lucas (1) Arctic Print February 2017

Rosemary Frederiksen (6) and Harrison Mabry (6) Mixed Media Heart

May 2016

Holly Powell (6) Bella McKay (6) Maria Carter (6) Mallie Higgins (6) Jack Pacconi (6) Olivia Morrison (6) Dog/Cat Collage June 2017

Max Hocker (5) Glueline Animal Portrait July 2017

Abby Moschel (7), Natalie Wright (7) Lainey Garside (7), Sasha Mason (7) Clay Castle August 2017

Georgia Orndorff (1) and Eli Russ (1) Monster Cityscape

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Class Notes

Class Notes 1993

Catherine Shull was named a 2016 Blue Ribbon Teacher Award winner for demonstrated excellence in classroom leadership and unwavering commitment to students. A former Harding Academy Alumni Board member, she teaches locally at Harpeth Valley Elementary.

1994

A partner at MTR Family Law, Marissa Moses Russ has been named a fellow of the Nashville Bar Foundation for significant contributions to the community and as a fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers. She is currently on the boards of CASA Nashville and Harding Academy, and formerly served four years on the Harding Academy Alumni Board.

Jody and Meg Funderburk White welcomed a daughter, Marjorie Elizabeth, on March 12.

She joins big brother Miles.

2003

1st Lieutenant Travis Brannon married Virginia Lee McCall on January 16, at Christ Church Episcopal in Greenville, South Carolina. His brother, Collin Brannon ‘07, served as best man. Groomsmen included fellow classmates Stockton Beveridge, Will Bryant, Chris Cahill, and Garrett Ramsey.

After their vows, the couple was presented to the attendees with a military arch of swords.

Both are graduates of The University of the South - Sewanee. The couple will make their home in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, where Travis is stationed flying Cobra helicopters. Graham

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he Harding Art Show Alumni Reunion, chaired by Mimi Mayo Beaver ’97, was held on May 6, in the Carol Chambers Art Studio. A photo booth was provided by Infinity Hospitality Group. Four decades of alumni reunited with their former teachers and friends over dinner provided by Moe’s Southwest Grill. Margaritas were provided by CapWealth Advisors.

Kate Tarleton Meriwether ’94 with husband Jonathan

Langhorne King Coleman, Anne Swift, and Amy Campbell Pearson

Hartong married Brian Dearen Rucker on April 30, at Woodmont Christian Church. Her

continued page 10

2001

Corinne Hartong Mattern graduated with a master’s of business administration from George Washington University on May 14.

2002

Adrien Saporiti’s newest mural, CONNECT, has been installed in the newly opened Google Fiber Space in Nashville.

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Mimi Mayo Beaver, Amy Scruggs Adams, and Julie Cato Marshall

H

arding Academy held its first ever Songwriters Night on Thursday evening, March 10, at the Green Door Gourmet Barn off of River Road. One hundred twenty-five Harding guests came out to see an amazing lineup that included SESAC Songwriter of the Year Rob Hatch. Also performing were Kylie Sackley, Justin Wilson, and 2016 Grammy-nominated Jamie Floyd.

Guests dined on Martins BBQ and enjoyed beer from local brewery Black Abbey.

Wine was also enjoyed from Horizon Spirits and Best Brands.

Current Harding parents Angela Nord and Trish James chaired this first-time fundraising event along with fellow parents and committee members Emmely Duncan, Shannon Johnson, Katherine Stratton Miller, Nicole Onufrey, and Jill Turner.

We would like to especially thank Director of Advancement Sheryl Rogers, Director of Finance and Operations Charles Maumus, and Mimi Mayo Beaver ’97 for all of their help and guidance.

Harding hopes to make this an annual event with plans already in the works for March 9, 2017. Save the date! And look for more information after the first of the year.

Harding Academy

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Class Notes

Harding Academy alumnae were honored on April 26 at the St. Cecilia Academy Honors Evening, a celebration of outstanding student achievement.

Bailey Blackford ‘15 All-year Honor Roll Liz Rohricht ‘13 All-Year Honor Roll, Governor’s School for of Tennessee School of International Studies, AP French Language Award, Outstanding Junior Student Leadership Award Cate Thompson ‘12 St. Cecilia Girl and Lisa Elcan Bruner Memorial Scholarship Recipient, National Honor Society, Computer Technology Academic Applications Award, SCA Student Ambassador Board Three-Year Recognition Award

bridesmaids included her sisters Corinne Hartong Mattern ’01 and Mary Liza Hartong ’08, and friend Meredith Christians Parker ’01.

2005

Blythe Cate is the recipient of Lipscomb University’s 2016 Carol Hall Student Teacher Award. Blythe completed her student teaching at Harding Academy in Grace Wilkinson’s second grade classroom.

Wilson Grant in Visual and Performing Arts Carter Smith ‘14 Wilson Grant in Math Michael McGuire ‘14 Wilson Language Grant to Colombia Patrick Andreen ‘13 Wilson Language Grant to Germany John Whitaker ‘13

Cason Close was elected vice president of Vanderbilt University’s Next Steps Execution Board for 2016–17. She cites her experience in Youth Legislature and Model UN for teaching

William Joy is a news reporter and multimedia journalist for WAVE 3 News in Louisville, Kentucky. He got his start reporting for his high school newspaper before attending the Missouri School of Journalism.

Outstanding Three-Sport Athlete for Sophomore Class Ty Allen ‘14

Wilson Grant in Visual and Performing Arts Owen Burns ‘14 Wilson Grant in Visual and Performing Arts John Fioravanti ‘13

2010

2006

Congratulations to the following Harding Academy alumni on their 2015–16 awards from Montgomery Bell Academy:

Senior Seminar for Civil Rights Award Hudson Coombs ‘12

2008

Wilson Language Grant to Middlebury Ty Allen ‘14 Wilson Language Grant to Middlebury Brandon Hall ‘15

Civitan Award Clark Allen ‘12 Wieck Big Red Spirit Award Will Beasley ‘12 Foreign Language Award for Chinese II Ford Ray ‘14

10 Harding Academy

Avery Hannon and Leah Portis are excited to transfer to Vanderbilt University together.

2012 Sewanee on May 8.

Emily Kitzmiller graduated with a nursing degree from the University of Arkansas and has

Wilson Language Grant to Middlebury Alexander Renkis ‘14

accepted a local position at St. Thomas Midtown.

Elam Mangum married Spencer Freeman on May 14, at Owen Chapel in Brentwood, Tenn. The reception was at Thistle Stop Cafe in Nashville.

her how to write bills and work with others.

Next Steps is a two-year post-secondary certification program for students ages 18-26 with disabilities. She and classmates Abby Mudter, Leah Hayes McAlister and Taylor McRae attended Bonnaroo together.

2011

Mary Liza Hartong graduated with honors from Dartmouth University. Mary Graham Harvey and John Morphis graduated together from the University of the South -

Wilson Language Grant to Middlebury Michael Garcia ‘14

Wilson Language Grant to Middlebury Philip Scholer ‘14

The couple honeymooned by driving crosscountry spending most of their time hiking in Utah and Colorado. Elam is preparing for Teach for America, teaching fifth grade social studies at Jere Baxter Middle School in East Nashville.

Spencer is from Tulsa, Okla. with an economics degree, and has accepted a job with UBS in downtown Nashville. The couple is excited to reside in the West End/Hillsboro neighborhood.

Clarke Allen gave the speech to officially welcome the freshman class to high school at the MBA Patch Ceremony in early September, 2015. Beginning by quoting Harriet Tubman, “Every great dream begins with a dreamer.

Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world,” he continued by offering lessons he has learned: You can never see what you are missing out on unless you see for yourself. Get to know your classmates, new relationships enable you to broaden your knowledge. Be enthusiastic, find your passion, and do something with it. Stevie Bailey has signed to play soccer at Belmont

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Class Notes

Alumni Profile

University. A.J. Beard is the 2016 valedictorian of Big Picture High School. Will Beasley and Ryan Carpenter had pieces featured in the student art exhibit sponsored by the Tennessee Art Education Association held at Belmont University. Laura Draughn has been named to the 2016 AllRegion Lacrosse Team. Lauren Lewis is the recipient of the Presidential Leadership Scholarship from the University of Georgia Honors College. Eleanor Smith was inducted into Harpeth Hall’s Cum Laude Society on April 4.

Cate Thompson was named St. Cecilia Girl at a ceremony on April 26.

It is the highest honor St. Cecilia Academy confers on a student by vote of the juniors and seniors, with faculty approval.

2013

John Fioravanti and Patrick Andreen were inducted into the International Thespian Society for their dedication and excellence in theater.

2014

Denee Stewart Freeman was awarded USN’s 2016 Interlandi Scholarship, which enables a talented high school student to attend Interlochen Arts Camp, an intensive three-week writing session in northern Michigan. Henry Hitt was selected to play in the GNASH Ice Hockey All-Star Game at Ford Ice Center on March 9. Kate Mabry has been named to the 2016 All-State Swim Team

2015

Anna Perrone has been selected to attend the summer 2016 Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference.

The two-week conference brings together 40 bright high school students to be led in workshops by four rising stars of the literary world.

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Jenny Boucek ’88

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he head coach of the WNBA’s Seattle Storm, Jenny Boucek ’88 is a pioneer of women’s professional basketball, an advocate for female athletes, and role model to all who value lifelong learning. The recipient of the 2016 Distinguished Alumni Award, Jenny was unable to attend Harding’s graduation in May, but she sent video remarks in which she stated that her life was dedicated to “serving other athletes and helping them find their best version of themselves.” Urging Harding graduates to embrace their identity, she declared, “Who you are is exactly who you are supposed to be.”

Jenny learned this “most difficult but lifechanging lesson” as a Harding student. A “tomboy” who loved sports, Jenny came to Harding in the seventh grade. Wanting to fit in, she tried to be like others and only succeeded in losing her confidence and sense of self. After a difficult two years, she was at a crossroads. But Harding offered her the chance to do eighth grade over again—an opportunity for which she will always be grateful. “That reset really put me back on track,” she says.

With a newfound determination to be true to herself, Jenny went on to be a four-year starter at the University of Virginia, where she helped the team to achieve four regular-season ACC Championships and three NCAA Elite Eight appearances.

Graduating in 1996, she decided to try out for the WNBA inaugural season in 1997. A guard for the Cleveland Rockers franchise, she played pro

basketball for less than two years before being sidelined by a serious back injury. She then began a new career path working as a scout or coach for a number of WNBA franchises. With two previous stints as a member of the Seattle Storm coaching staff, Jenny became head coach in 2015.

Her job during the WNBA season involves a grueling repetition of game preparation—on and off the court—travel, and 34 games in just 18 weeks. In the off-season she spends her time scouting college players, dissecting game videos to assess how to improve the team’s systems, doing speaking engagements in the community in support of women’s sports, monitoring and supporting her players’ off-season activities—many play overseas in the winter—and pushing herself to learn more. Attending NBA training camps and meeting with the NBA’s best coaches are among her strategies for continuing to develop as a basketball coach and player advocate.

“The challenge is constant,” she says of her job. “That’s why I like it.” She notes that a successful team is about more than plays and systems—it’s about relationships and team dynamics. Being a coach enables her to use both her “analytical side” and her “people side.”

Although her goal is to develop her team into a championship contender, she is always cognizant of the big picture. She wants her athletes to develop as people, too. She says, “I’m hoping that we are all learning and growing in ways that help us outside of sports.” u

Alumni Gatherings The Alumni Association hosted a reception in Washington, D.C., on May 12, at Poste Moderne Brassiere.

Special thanks to Corinne Hartong Mattern ’01 for organizing.

Be on the lookout for the next out-of-town gathering to be held in San Diego, Calif., November 1, 2016.

Congratulations to the following March Madness Alumni Annual Fund contest winners: • Class of 1972 with the highest giving percentage of 22% • Class of 1994 with the highest number of gifts at 12 • Class of 1984 with the highest dollar amount given of $8,200 Harding Academy

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Class Notes

CLASS OF 2016 HIGH SCHOOL CHOICES Brownell-Talbot (NE) Brownell-Talbot (NE) Emma Mirnics Ensworth High School Carla Cohen Carrie Cohen Sydney Fowlkes Lizza Hubbard Lila Hunt Katie-Rose Pacconi Caroline Stanley Emilija Vanagunas Madeline Wall Franklin Road Academy Graeme Macdonald Ava Saponari Will Wheeler Harpeth Hall Lydia Beachum Meg Beuter Catarina Carter Cooper Mae Cavallo

Catherine Derryberry Caroline Frederiksen Ellie Frist Mika Gothard Annie Griffin Ainsley Hanrahan Isabel Long Ellie Slagle Julia Townsend Lily Wilmoth

Class of 2012 reunion attendees

Alumni Gathering

Haynes Owen Alex Ray Cole Williamson Newton South (MA) Emma Carlson St. Cecilia Academy Anneliese Evans Brittney Griffin Anne McPeak

The McCallie School (Chattanooga) Merritt Smith Montgomery Bell Academy Alston Aron Hedges Hayworth Will Higgins George Mabry Daniel McGuire

Class of 2012 members Perry Davis and Fred Crumbo

Katie McGuire ’12 graduated from Father Ryan.

Trinity Valley School (TX) Cooper Craig University School of Nashville Wilson Berry Connar Calhoun Webb School (Bell Buckle) Henry Corwin

Mary Winston Reames ’12 graduated from Harpeth Hall.

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he Class of 2012 returned to campus on Sunday, May 15, for the annual High School Seniors Reunion. They enjoyed catching up with each other and with former teachers, reflected on their time at Harding, celebrated graduations, and shared their future college plans. As the last class to graduate in the old middle school building, they were excited to receive a tour of the new middle school by sixth grade English teacher Jennifer Weinblatt. They then hit the gym for basketball. Good luck in college, Class of 2012! You make us proud.

Clarke Allen University of Southern California Abby Anderson University of Tennessee Stevie Bailey Belmont University Brett Barnett Vanderbilt University Fidan Baycora George Washington University A. J. Beard Tennessee State University Will Beasley University of Mississippi Corinne Brooks Belmont University Davis Cavallo Miami University of Ohio Holden Craig Texas Christian University Fred Crumbo University of Rochester Perry Davis University of Tennessee Marie Dewitt Tulane University William Disspayne University of Tennessee

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Connor Downey Villanova University Laura Draughn Wake Forest University Frannie Easter Auburn University Matt Garside Duke University Rebekah Greenberg Year Course in Israel Carly Henderson University of Tennessee Caroline Hollahan Boston University Sydney Hunt DePaul University Emaun Irani Williams College Jake Jacobson University of Mississippi Brad Johnson Rice University Harrison Kaminsky University of Southern California Mary Grace Kelley University of Colorado Boulder Jack Koehner University of Tennessee

Focus: Behind the Scenes with Volunteers; New Head of School Installation; All-School Picnic

Lauren Lewis Ethan Long Katie McGuire Marco Mirnics Joy Morgan Myers Harry Ossolinski Mary Winston Reames Claudia Rhett Eleanor Smith Alex Stevens Cate Thompson Sam Wheeler David Wise Emma Yoder

Claudia Rhett ’12 graduated from Brentwood Academy.

University of Georgia, Honors College University of Tennessee University of Notre Dame Tulane University University of Mississippi Lehigh University Southern Methodist University Indiana University University of Virginia Wake Forest University University of Mississippi Auburn University Virginia Tech University of Colorado Boulder

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