FPD Magazine Summer 2023

FPD Magazine

First Presbyterian Day School

5671 Calvin Drive

Macon, Georgia 31210

Phone: (478) 477-6505

www.fpdmacon.org

Administration

Dr. John Patterson, Head of School

Mr. Charlie Parrish, Chief Financial Officer

Mrs. Elizabeth Leslein, Chief Operating Officer

Mr. Matt Kitchell, High School Principal

Dr. Kristy Alvarez, Middle School Principal

Mrs. Shannon Bryant ‘93, Lower School Principal

Dr. Stephen Jordan, Director of Spiritual Life

Mrs. Kristen Kreutner, Director of Innovation, Instruction, and Curriculum, and International Program Director

Mr. Greg Moore ’84, Athletic Director

Mrs. Brittiny Johnson, Director of Marketing & Communications

Dr. Andrew Strickland, Director of Fine Arts

Mr. Brad Thompson, Director of College Counseling

Mrs. Kathy Tolbert, Director of Advancement

Mrs. Kris Vaughn ‘04, Director of Admissions

2022-2023 Board of Trustees

Mr. Joey Brumbelow

Rev. Elliott Everitt (Ex Officio)

Mrs. Terri Harper (Vice Chair)

Mr. George Jones (Chair)

Lt. Col. Phillips Jones, ‘00

Mrs. Tracy Jones

Mrs. Brandi Justice

Mr. John Kitchens

Rev. Chip Miller (Ex Officio)

Mr. John David Miller

Mrs. Martha Pearson

Mr. Silas Peed, ‘02

Mr. Jack Pyles, ‘03

Mrs. Amy Walthall

Mrs. Katie White

Mr. Calder Willingham

Dr. John Patterson (Ex Officio)

2023-2024 Board of Trustees

Mr. Joey Brumbelow

Rev. Elliott Everitt (Ex Officio)

Mrs. Terri Harper (Chair)

Mr. Bob Johnson

Mr. Jeremy Johnson

Lt. Col. Phillips Jones, ‘00 (Vice Chair)

Mrs. Brandi Justice

Mr. John Kitchens

Mr. Ben McElreath

Rev. Chip Miller (Ex Officio)

Mr. John David Miller

Mr. Silas Peed, ‘02

Mrs. Krystal Reeves

Mrs. Katie White

Mr. Jerome Strickland

Mr. Calder Willingham

Dr. John Patterson (Ex Officio)

Photography: Caleb Brown, Brittiny Johnson, Andrew Brooks Printer: Proforma

FPD Magazine is published by the First Presbyterian Day School Communication Office. www.fpdmacon.org

Commencement 2023

The Class of 2023 walked across the stage on May 20, 2023, at Ingleside Baptist Church. These 81 graduates joined the ranks of over 3,300 other FPD alumni. They are the 49th graduating class of FPD. Twenty-three graduates were at FPD since pre-kindergarten; 48 of them were honor graduates; and 49 were awarded gold tassels as members of the National Honor Society. Each graduate has a firm foundation on which to continue their education and faith journey. They are all outstanding young men and women who are educated and equipped to change the world for God’s glory.

COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS:

There are six words I want to give you—God’s way is the best way. God’s way is the best way. God’s way is the best way.

Statistically, there are over 100,000 commencement addresses happening this month, and statistically, there are hundreds if not millions of graduates that sit to listen to those commencement speakers. Statistically 99.9999999% of the graduates do not remember one word their commencement speaker says. I’m going to attempt to be the first person in history over the next 10 minutes to repeat six words to you so that you will remember what you were charged with at your graduation—God’s way is the best way.

Many days in your life I’m sure you have walked to the door and your parents have met you at there. They then begin to shout out all these staccato commands and statements. Do you have enough money? Do you have your license? Do you have your keys? Call me when you get there. Are you okay? Who are you with? What are you doing? I’m tracking you on your phone.

As parents, we want our children to remember to be safe, and we want them to remember all of these things, but why is it at the door that we throw out all of these staccato random things? Really, what we’re wanting can be summed up in one phrase “God’s way is the best way.”

Remember your testimony of God’s way is the best way. Remember what you do reflects the Lord, your family, and your truth. All of the love in our hearts, all of our ambitions, as we have shouted out the door, can be summed up as God’s way is the best way.

You’re commencing today. You’re at the door. Today, you’re leaving the door. We’re gathering, meeting, and wondering, what can we say? We want to shout so many things to you. Some of you have been here since Pre-K. You have heard so

many things. You’ve had mentoring opportunities with your faculty and your teachers. You’ve had friends and coaches, you’ve been in the dugout, you’ve had so many spiritual discussions. We want you to remember all of it, but it’s impossible.

You’re at the door commencing. We are here, and it all can be summed up in one phrase. Don’t forget—God’s way is the best way. God’s way is the best way. Every parent, every guardian, every loved one, every pastor, every youth pastor, every staff member, faculty member, and administrator has poured their lives out to you. They want you guys to remember that no matter what you choose, no matter where you go, no matter who you hang around with, no matter your career choices, God’s way is the best way.

God’s way is the best way for your future successes and your many failures, in times of anger, times of defeat, times of joy, and times of victory. These six words will be the spiritual prescription that you can apply to every scenario of life. God’s way is the best way. You want to honor your parents? Just live life according to God’s will. As the proverb says it is justifiable pride for a parent to boast about righteous causeways. The best way is God’s way.

In everything you do, pro or con, positive or negative, painful, joyful, apply this one truth— God’s ways the best way. In your future relationships, remember God’s way is the best way. When you begin a new life together with a soulmate—God’s way is the best way. When you’re tempted to react and take revenge in the future, know God’s way is the best way. On those days your heart is hurting so profoundly, you’ve lost a loved one, or are facing something that you don’t understand what God is doing. When you have so many questions about your future journey, always remember God’s way is the best way.

Dr. Ben Gutierrez, Senior Pastor at Grove Church in Richmond, Virginia

God’s way is the best way when you achieve your dreams. Remember to give him glory. God’s way is the best way when you have yet to achieve your dreams and goals. God’s way is the best way when you experience joy only the Lord can give. God’s way is the best way when your heart breaks and you feel deep hurt continually. God’s way is the best way when you engage with people that are different from you. When you pray for people that hurt you, when you are misunderstood, God’s way is the best way. When you experience all the rich blessings that God gives you, when you struggle to make ends meet, or when you and your spouse are trying to make the best of what life is just thrown you, never forget God’s way is the best way. God’s way is the best way.

I’ll never forget that feeling of watching my graduate. We all as parents and loved ones are commencing with the students today. We’re all in this new season of life, because, see as parents and guardians, we realize that our role changes and our relationship changes with you. We have to remember God’s way is the best way. We remember that our relationship changes to guide you and direct you, to respond to you when you seek advice now. We wonder about your future and what it’ll hold. When we in the quiet moments of our life begin to reflect with our loved ones and wonder if we trained you up in the way that you should go, we will trust the Lord that yes, God’s way was the best way. We take comfort in the fact that this season is okay, because God’s way has always been the best way. When we see you exhibit the most amazing testimony of a Christ follower, we will declare with great joy God’s way is the best way. We are all commencing with you to new levels of spirituality all of us. We will all embrace the truth that God’s way is the best way.

As parents, we know God is faithful because his way has been the best way to raise you all these years. We have been able to see God’s faithfulness in the moments when we were overwhelmed. We have seen God develop you in such amazing ways. We have declared as parents God’s way is the best way. We’ve seen God mend broken hearts and your parents have seen how God has returned the spirit of joy and gladness in your heart. Your parents have seen how God has taught you profound lessons and have watched you mature in wisdom beyond your years. Your loved ones have seen how God has taught you to wait for something better. And when that something better came, it was way better than you could have ever imagined. It’s in those moments we declared in your life that God’s way is the best.

Your loved ones have seen God bring person after person into your life and bring amazing opportunities and context into your life. Your parents have seen God take your talents to heights you never thought were possible. Your loved ones have seen how God has taken your worship and your spirit of encouragement to a level that they didn’t seem probable. God has done so much for you and your loved ones have observed that it was only because God’s way was the best

way. We now all trust Him today in this new future that we’re looking into.

We know God’s way is the best way because of what God has done for each and every person through the Lord Jesus Christ, his sacrifice, and salvation—where he came to this earth to live a sinless life, die a crucifixion, was buried, and rose again three days later to conquer sin and Hell and death. Salvation is offered to whoever will call upon the name of the Lord for whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Salvation is not just the best way. Salvation is the only way, because for there is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby you can be saved.

There’ll be times you run into scenarios and situations that your parents have never gone through. You could lose a child, you could run into catastrophe, or you could run into just some burdensome scenarios. You’re going to be sitting with your loved one. And you’ll remember the verse in Matthew 18:20 Where it says where two or three of you are gathered. I’m with you. There are times you’re going to say how are we going to get through? You will remember “I was always taught by my school, by those that loved me the most, that God’s way is the best way.”

You’ll say, “I don’t have an answer but I know Who holds all the answers, Who loves me, and Who will never forsake me.” We must follow God’s way because God’s way is the best way. So as you’re headed to the door and your parents are running after you. There’s a lot of things they want. There’s a lot of things our hearts want to share and shout out. But it can all be summed up in one phrase, graduates don’t ever forget—God’s ways the best way!

Dr. Gutierrez serves as Senior Pastor at Grove Church in Richmond, Virginia. Prior to serving the Grove Church, Dr. Gutierrez served 18 years at Liberty University as a professor and ultimately rising to Co-Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. He holds a Ph.D. in organizational leadership from Regent University and a master’s of religion and masters of divinity from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary. Dr. Gutierrez has published over a dozen books with Lifeway, Broadman, and Holman, and over half of his books have been translated into multiple languages. He is happily married to his wife Tammy of 26 years and is a proud father of two daughters, Lauren and Emma.

VALEDICTORY ADDRESS:

Marley Hutcheson

Good afternoon and welcome to the commencement of FPD’s Class of 2023! I am so excited to be here today—finally! Those of you who know me well—know that the only thing that makes me more nervous than Writing Wednesdays and timed multiplication tables is public speaking—and here I am.

To start, I would like to congratulate the Class of 2023. We are here today to celebrate all our hard work and to reflect on the memories we have created during our time at FPD. I think that all of you will agree with me that we have not reached this milestone alone. Each one of us stands on the shoulders of many of the individuals surrounding us in this room. Personally, I want to take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitude. Thank you to the teachers that have helped to shape us, our parents who have raised us, and our friends who have provided us with joy and comfort throughout our journey. I want to say a special “Thank You” to my parents for their unfailing support and sacrifice. I absolutely would not be standing before you on this stage without their constant outpouring of love and, of course, their genetics. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for being the best parents a girl could ask for.

Now let’s take a step back to reflect on the journey that brought us to this monumental destination. I have walked with some of you since we first stepped into the doors of the colorful kindergarten building. It has been nothing short of a pleasure to grow up with you. I have formed relationships with many of you that I will hold dear for the rest of my life. To those of you who entered my journey at some later time, getting to know you has been a rewarding experience. I am forever grateful for the impact you each have had on me.

As I sat down to write this speech, a flood of memories rushed into my mind. Thoughts of elementary school days when we traded silly bands, collected beanie boos, raced to be first to the swings on the playground, played our Wiis, and spent hours memorizing and rehearsing the 50 States song. Then there is the not-so-fond memory of the 4th grade trip to Tybee, marred by a vicious stomach bug that literally took out three quarters of the class. The 5th grade trip to Washington when we hosted our very own American Idol bus competitions, recorded thousands of steps on our Fitbits, and even inadvertently found ourselves caught in the midst of a T-Mobile peaceful protest.

Next, reflecting on middle school, I was fondly reminded of the excitement of decorating lockers (which to be honest most of us never used!), participating in Spirit Week (and, of course, coming out on top in 6th and 8th grade), and preparing and delivering those dreaded speeches. The 8th grade trip to Epcot and SeaWorld served as our geography and science lessons for a week.

Finally, we reached high school…and, boy, did these four years fly by! From class bonfires to dressing up or dressing out for Friday

Night Lights, from AP classes to SATs, from breaking records to breaking hearts as we claimed back-to-back Spirit Week victories as Juniors and Seniors, from falling short to Final Fours and championships…

Having reflected on much of what has defined our past, it is now time to turn our eyes toward the future. As I searched for the perfect words of wisdom to impart to you, my classmates, I was reminded of a message that I once heard that was centered upon the significance of two simple words — “what” and “who.” For those of us who attended FPD in fourth grade, we were recently gifted with the letters that we wrote to our high school selves. Each of our letters was written in response to a series of questions. Not surprisingly, the #1 question was “WHAT do you want to be when you grow up?” I sat in wonder thinking about how often this seemingly innocent question has been posed. As youngsters, the question ignites vivid imaginations and dreams of being policemen, professional athletes, teachers, ballerinas, or even the President. I just wanted to be the wife of Justin Bieber.

As years passed, our dreams became more realistic, and the thought of what we would become carried more significant weight. The question “WHAT do you want to be?” projects the idea that our accomplishments and achievements, the “what,” defines our worth. Throughout high school many of us have found our identity based in the clubs we joined, the sports we participated in, or the grades we achieved. However, looking back, the joys of my life are not tied to the honors or titles that I chased but rather on the experiences shared and bonds formed with you, my classmates. This realization led me to reevaluate my way of thinking - to restate the question, “WHAT do you want to be when you grow up?” and instead ask “WHO do you want to be when you grow up?” The substitution of one simple word changes everything. It redirects the focus away from the accolades and aspirations and places emphasis on the importance of creating an identity solidly rooted in character, beliefs, and values.

As we leave the comfort and security of high school and home and forge forward into the future, I challenge you to be intentional in the pursuit of WHO you want to be when you grow up. When we meet again, it is my hope that we greet each other with curiosity and wonder not about what we have each become but who we have become.

In closing, thank you again to all who have travelled this amazing journey with the Class of 2023. As you flip your tassel signaling the final gesture of today’s ceremony, take time to celebrate how far you have come, anticipate what lies ahead, and begin forging your unique path to change the world for God’s glory. And always Go Vikings!

SALUTATORY ADDRESS: Marshall

Massey

Good afternoon, my name is Marshall Massey, and I am honored to be able to speak to all the family, friends, and faculty who have gathered here today to celebrate this outstanding class of 2023. Ok, seniors, give me one snap if you hear me *snap*. Give me two snaps if you are ready to graduate *snap snap*. (look over to Dr. Patterson) I guess that really does work!

I am so honored to celebrate with you, FPD’s Class of 2023, on our graduation day. As mentioned in Caleb Brown’s Baccalaureate Address, FPD’s Class of 2023 is truly unique. While 23 of us have spent the last 14 years together, the other 58 who have joined us along the way have each added something remarkable to this class. While reflecting on what makes our tight-knit group so unique, I came up with three ideas:

(1) Class Unity

After two years of isolation due to COVID, we weren’t wasting any time. We dove into every opportunity with enthusiasm, tons of energy, and dedication. Take Spirit Week, for example, we won back-to-back years –just like those Georgia Bulldogs (sorry,

Coach Veazey)! Whether it be the first home football game or the last band concert, the senior class always made an appearance, and while we may have struggled to find our bus at Grad Bash at 2 a.m., we at least did it together.

(2) Our Parents

To start off, I was going to thank my own family for everything they have done for me, but I know there would be an immediate flash flood evacuation from my mom’s tears, So, I’ll continue on.

Our parents kicked it into overdrive when our high school career started and made every event creative and memorable. Rising senior parents, you really have some big shoes to fill.

(3) Relationships with the Faculty

In John 13:34-35, it says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” To say that this faculty loves the Class of 2023 is an understatement. Coach A often said that he would fight off wild animals for us. Joe Mac ate

lunch with us and invited us to play pickleball. Coach Nix always greeted us with “mmm-kay, boys” before we worked on his fantasy football league. And lastly, Mrs. Funk prayed every day that we would always stay “safe, healthy, and sweet.”

While FPD’s Class of 2023 is deployed to its own mission field in a few months, we are looking to other Vikings to pick up where we have left off. As Ted Lasso says, “success is not about the wins and losses, it’s about helping these young fellas be the best versions of themselves on and off the field.” The little things matter, and make sure to take care of one another.

I am not only honored to have gotten to be a part of the Class of 2023, but I am thrilled to see the great things God does in each of our lives. I know that wherever you go, you will make it special because you have made this class and this place so special. Once again, we thank FPD for making this one of the best places to call home for the last few years of our lives. To the Class of 2023, thank you for showing me how to love, lead, and live every day to the fullest. Thank you all, I love yall. And, as always, Go Vikings!

Salutatorian: Marshall Massey

Valedictorian: Marley Hutcheson

Legacies

CLASS OF 2023 GRADUATES & FAMILY ALUMNI

Erica Fuller, ‘20, & Macy Fuller

Amelia Hardy & Jack Hardy, ‘20

Brittany Belote, ‘07, & Samantha Belote

Collier Griffin, ‘19, & Natalie Griffin

Cam Foster, ‘19, & Anna Foster

McKenzie Bakkar, ‘15, Miller Bakkar, & Michael Bakkar, ‘18

Bella Bossé-Joseph, ‘19, Abigail Bossé-Joseph, & Gabby Bossé-Joseph, ‘21

Carine Cerny, ‘16, Roan Cerny, & Andrew Cerny, ‘18

Will Culver, & Katie Culver Freeman, ‘17

Chase Garrison, ‘19, Tate Garrison, & Brady Garrison, ‘21

Brent Matthews, ‘96, Kinsey Cutright, ‘13, Jeff Cutright, ‘97, Mary Holland Matthews, Gracie Matthews, ‘20, Tripp Matthews, ‘94, & Gerral Cutright, ‘97

Thomas, McBride, ‘17, & Lily McBride

Emma Robinson, ‘19, John Walker, ‘94, Avery Robinson, Holly Hatcher, & Kristy Walker Hatcher, ‘89

Palmer Haynes, ‘15, & Miller Haynes Kristi Marley Hutcheson, ‘90, & Marley Hutcheson

Hanny Marone, ‘17, An An Marone, & Ru Yi Marone, ‘15

Maggie Moody, ‘17, & Abby-Gayle Moody

Ethan Scott, ‘17, Walker Self, ‘22, Isabella Scott, & Graham Scott, ‘20

Kathryn Lyles, ‘13, Caleb Lyles, & Marshall Lyles, ‘15

Reagan Simmons, ‘21, Shelby Simmons, & Gray Simmons, ‘19

Paul Smaha, ‘18, Josh Smaha, Katelyn Smaha, ‘17, & Jake Smaha, ‘20

Evan Massey, ‘98, Anna Massey, ‘20, Marshall Massey, Nancy Marshall Massey, ‘88, Brent Marshall, ‘92, & Rad Massey, ‘92

Will Ware, ‘19, Callie Kate Ware, & Sara Parker, ‘18

Madison Stokes, ‘20, & Isabel Stokes

Klein Woods, ‘19, & Candler Woods

Clint Ward, ‘90, Jarrrett Ward, & Dallas Ward, ‘21

Regan Strickland Crawford, ‘15, Sarah Grace Strickland, & Lindsey Strickland, ‘18

Emily DeLancey Tart, ‘91, & Benjamin Tart

Savannah Terrell, ‘21, & Jackson Terrell

Christy Riley West, ‘91, & William West

Mike Thompson, ‘86, Anna Thompson, & John Thompson, ‘91

Class of 2023

% 85

Eligible for the HOPE Scholarship

81

Graduates

18 accepted to

49 Members of the National Honor Society Honor Grads

3

72 colleges in 24 states.

9 athletes planning to play sports in college

30 Honor Grads with Distinction

• named Honorable Mention for Golden Eagle

• STAR Students

2 • Georgia Scholars

• Dooley Award Scholarship Top 10 nominees

30 attending different colleges across the nation in 10 different states

10,000 hours of Community Service in four years of high school

Each year FPD selects several members of the senior class to feature in the FPD Magazine. Each spotlighted student exemplifies characteristics of FPD’s Graduate Profile and has unique interests they plan on pursuing in college.

Senior Spotlights

Victoria King

College Choice: Dartmouth

Planned Major: Double major in Computer Science and Film and Media Studies with a minor in Creative Writing

What teachers or coaches have been influential in your time at FPD? How did they impact your life?

Mrs. Jerles has been the most influential teacher in my time at FPD. Her godly influence has permeated into all aspects of my life, and I feel like I’ve known her all my life. She exudes a radiant glow and devotes her life to STEAM education for youth. Also, Dr. Alvarez has been influential in my time at FPD. She pushed me to become a better writer and is my favorite high school English teacher. Also, I want to thank Ms. Conger for letting me explore my Afro-American heritage in art class. Because of her, I created a traditional African clay mask and an abstract painting based off the Afro-American artist Jean Michael-Basquiat.

What makes FPD a great school to you?

FPD is a great school because the faculty and staff not only care about you academically, but spiritually and mentally as well. I’ve been privileged enough to develop a close relationship with Mrs. Mary Bennet Rose and Mrs. Angela Bearchell.

What was one of your favorite memories from school?

My favorite memory from school is writing the engineering notebook for the robotics team in 10th and 11th grade. I got to intersect my two loves of technology and writing. It was an amazing opportunity for me to challenge myself. I used advanced graphic design software such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator to convey our team’s journey. Also, I enjoyed the hip hop dance team trip, playing Hippolyta in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” competing in the personal narrative essay competitions, Coach Spear’s all girls weightlifting class, and coding games in Advanced Computer Science Club!

Luke Strickland

College Choice: Kennesaw State University

Planned Major: Computer Game Design & Development

What did you enjoy most about FPD?

I enjoyed the arts the most. Theatre, band, dance, all of it.

What teachers or coaches have been influential in your time at FPD? How did they impact your life?

The two biggest for me are Mr. Baker and Dr. Strickland. They are the two teachers I spent the most time with. Mr. Baker has been my teacher, mentor, and friend for many years. Dr. Strickland has been my teacher, mentor, and father for even longer (like, 18 years).

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

Don’t be afraid to say “no”. If you don’t want to do something, don’t let your peers force you to do it. That being said, have an open outlook on school. Be willing to try things. You don’t have to do every single thing that happens every single year.

How has your faith grown during your time at FPD?

My faith has grown strong at FPD, thanks to all the teachers helping my walk with the Lord.

What was one of your favorite memories from school?

Being the Drum Major of the FPD Vikings Marching Band and Vanguard. Though it was a little rocky and rough at times, I genuinely enjoyed spending time with all my band members, and I loved seeing them grow as musicians.

Colton McDonald

College Choice: Andrew College to play Baseball

Planned Major: Engineering- Cyber Security

What teachers or coaches have been influential in your time at FPD? How did they impact your life?

Coach Moore and Mr. Hopper have been very influential in my time at FPD. They were both great mentors that helped me grow not only in the classroom or on the field but also individually and spiritually.

How do you feel that your experience at FPD prepared you for college?

My experience at FPD helped me manage my time between school, friends, sports, and spiritual life. FPD has taught me that no matter what obstacles or challenges I face, God will always have a plan for me.

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

What advice I would give is no matter what you’re going through or how hard your classes might be, the teachers are not only there to teach, but they are also there to help you be the best version of yourself possible.

Sophia Ives

College Choice: University of Georgia

Planned Major: Undecided

What did you enjoy most about FPD?

I enjoyed my athletic teams so much. It gave me an opportunity to get to know students in other grades that I wouldn’t have otherwise. Each one felt like a family to me!

What makes FPD a great school to you?

The teachers get to know you on a personal level and want to see you succeed. You can tell that your teachers care about you, and I’ve always felt that I could go to them if I needed help.

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

Be kind to everyone you encounter! High school is tough and you have no idea what people are going through.

What was one of your favorite memories from school? Winning spirit week twice was a big highlight for me!

Gunner Heath

College Choice: Virginia Tech

Planned Major: Business (undecided)

What did you enjoy most about FPD?

The thing I enjoyed most about FPD was being a part of the soccer team. The program is definitely going places, and I hope to come back one day to coach.

What teachers or coaches have been influential in your time at FPD? How did they impact your life?

The teacher that has been most influential in my life is Mr. Shane Hall. He has been a role model of what a godly man and father looks like. He also is a super good guy and truly cares about my classmates and me.

What makes FPD a great school to you?

The faculty and staff truly live out the Christian life and care about the students. Everything is intentional and in line with the mission statement.

How has your faith grown during your time at FPD?

My faith has transformed from just knowing of Christ, to knowing Christ personally. This wouldn’t have been possible without FPD.

What was one of your favorite memories from school?

My favorite memory was shaving my head senior year with some other guys on the football team.

Emily Jones

College Choice: Auburn University

Planned Major: Early Childhood Education

What did you enjoy most about FPD?

FPD has been such a blessing in my life in so many aspects. I truly do not even know what was the best part because FPD continued to exceed my expectations each year I was a student there. If I had to chose one thing that stood out to me that made FPD so enjoyable, I would have to say the community. FPD is not just a school, it’s a family. Everyone here is loved so well, and I would not trade the sense of community at FPD for anything.

What teachers or coaches have been influential in your time at FPD? How did they impact your life?

All my teachers and coaches have been such a blessing in itself, but Coach Trieste, my soccer coach, has truly had a huge impact on me while at FPD. He challenges and inspires me not only to be the best player I can be, but the best version of myself! He has such a God-seeking heart that encourages me everyday. From the simple team hangouts with him and coaching us to winning a state championship, he nevers fails to make us all laugh, feel so loved, and remind us that God should always be at the forefront of our lives. He is someone that I am so glad to have played a part in my life. I am forever grateful for him.

How do you feel that your experience at FPD prepared you for college?

The biggest preparation that FPD gave me was a foundation in my faith! From the day you begin at FPD to the day you turn your tassel, you are constantly filled and encouraged with scripture. The way that the faculty pours into the students demostrates the love of Christ and shows us how to treat others. I will take everything I have learned with me to college and am excited to see how my relationship with the Lord grows thanks to the foundations formed at FPD.

College Bound!

Graduates of FPD’s Class of 2023 were accepted to the following colleges:

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College

Alabama A&M University

Alcorn State University

Andrew College

Appalachian State University

Athens Tech

Auburn University

Augusta University

Berry College

Central Georgia Technical College

Clemson University

College of Coastal Georgia

Columbus State University

Dartmouth College

Emerson College

Emmanuel College

Emory and Henry College

Flagler College

Florida State University

Georga Institute of Technology

Georgia College and State University

Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southwestern University

Georgia State University

Grambling State University

Greater Gwinnett College

Hampton University

Hawaii Pacific University

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville University

Kennesaw State University

LaGrange College

Louisiana State University

Marion Military Institute

Mercer University

Michigan State University

Middle Georgia State University

New York University

Ohio State University

Pennsylvania State University

Piedmont College

Reinhardt University

Rutgers University

Samford University

Savannah State University

Shenandoah University

Southern Union State

Spelman College

St. Mary’s University

State University of New York at Buffalo

Thomas More University

Troy University

Truett McConnell University

University of Alabama

University of California, Irvine

University of Central Florida

University of Georgia

University of Illinois

University of Kentucky

University of Mississippi

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

University of North Carolina School of the Arts

University of North Florida

University of North Georgia

University of South Carolina

University of South Florida

University of Tennessee

University of West Georgia

University of Wisconsin

University of Wyoming

Virginia Tech

Wake Forest University

SENIOR RECOGNITION

ACADEMIC

Valedictorian - Marley Hutcheson

Salutatorian - Marshall Massey

Class President - Holly Hatcher

Senior Superlatives - Brooks Byrd, An An Marone, Isabella Scott, Colton McDonald, Cole Hetes, and Amelia Hardy

Star Students & Teachers - An An Marone and Mr. Matthew Hopper, David Reeves and Mr. Jonathan Baker, and Sophia Ives and Mrs. Alex Minter

Georgia Scholars - An An Marone and Roan Cerny

Golden Eagle Award Nominees - Tate Garrison (Art), Amelia Hardy (Athletics), Anna Thompson (Citizenship), Luke Strickland (Drama), Macy Fuller (English/ Literature), Ava Grace Baltz (Journalism), David Reeves (Math), An An Marone (Science), Abi Bosse-Joseph (Social Science), Victoria King (Technology), and Sophia Ives (World Languages)

SERVICE

Most Community Service Hours - Anna Thompson

FPD Best Citizen Award - Marshall Massey and Aimee Comer

FINE ARTS

Director’s Award, Theatre - Luke Strickland

ATHLETICS

Outstanding Male Athlete - Cole Hetes

Outstanding Female Athlete - Amelia Hardy

Vince Dooley Award Top Ten Nominees - Cole Hetes and Amelia Hardy

Macon Sports Hall of Fame Scholar Athletes - Cole Hetes and Amelia Hardy

Star Students and Teachers: Mr. Matthew Hopper and An An Marone, David Reeves and Mr. Jonathan Baker, and Mrs. Alex Minter and Sophia Ives.

Golden Eagle Nominees

Best Citizen Awards: Marshall Massey and Aimee Comer

Most Community Service Hours Anna Thompson

Honor Graduates Class of 2023

Miller Bakkar Ava Grace Baltz*

Chandler Cawley*

Laura Chan* Sophia Chan* Aimee Comer* Elizabeth Dukes

Emily Edwards

Anna Foster Macy Fuller* Natalie Griffin*

Amelia Hardy* Gunner Heath* Lily Hershberg Cole Hetes*

Brooks Byrd*

Abigail Bossé-Joseph* Tate Garrison Mary Grace Girardeau

Sophia Ives*

Roan Cerny*

Madison English*

Olivia Guzzo

Marley Hutcheson*

An FPD Honor Graduate has a 90 or more average in FPD core classes in high school.

An Honor Graduate on the Accelerated Academic Track will graduate Honors with Distinction.

*With Distinction

Isabella Scott*

Ethan Thomley

Marsh Massey*

Mary Holland Matthews

Macie Sheffield

Emily Jones*

Lily McBride

Josh Smaha*

Anna Thompson

Victoria King*

Colton McDonald*

Isabel Stokes*

Ava Walker

Avery Robinson

Benjamin Tart*

An An Marone*

Jarrett Ward

Maci Lefholz*

David Reeves*

Sarah Grace Strickland

Ava Wallace*

Callie Kate Ware

William West*

Nick Xiao*

Unique Field Trips

First Presbyterian Day School provides students with an outstanding learning experience both inside and outside the classroom.

One example of engaged learning outside the typical classroom is our field trips, which take place throughout the year for various grades.

Field trips allow for hands-on learning, practical application of knowledge, real-world connections, and cultural enrichment. Students can interact with their peers and teachers in a different environment that promotes bonding and teamwork. Field trips also can spark curiosity and inspire further exploration.

From short visits to fire stations and farms to overnight trips to Jekyll Island and Chattanooga, our students learn and grow by experiencing the world.

“Field trips allow students opportunities to extend and enrich their learning outside the traditional classroom setting,” said Mrs. Shannon Bryant, Lower School Principal. “These meaningful opportunities, organized by our wonderful teachers and aides, help learning to come alive for our Lower School Vikings.”

In Lower School, 4th grade goes on an overnight trip to Jekyll Island, while 5th grade takes several days to experience Washington DC. Third grade visits Dahlonega to culminate their academic year, however, it is a day trip. Kindergarten through 2nd grade take trips closer to home to enhance their learning.

“Experiential learning opportunities help students build from abstract to concrete, connect curriculum to experience, and provide rich opportunities for reflection and growth once classes return to school,” Bryant said. “Whether it’s panning for gold in Dahlonega or exploring the Butterfly House in Callaway Gardens, students have

fun, make memories, and grow from these offsite opportunities.”

In Middle School, FPD’s 6th graders spend three days at Rock Eagle Camp. Eight grade goes to Chattanooga, Tennessee, for three days.

“New for the 2023-2024 school year, we are taking the 7th grade on a trip to Northern Kentucky and Ohio to The Ark Experience and the Creation Museum,” said Dr. Kristy Alvarez, Middle School Principal.

“Field trips for our middle schoolers are an essential part of our commitment to develop the whole child,” said Alvarez. “We provide a time to build community between our students and between our teachers and students. They have the opportunity to connect in different ways than the traditional school setting.”

Field trips like these provide students with engaging and memorable experiences that enhance learning, broaden perspectives, and help them develop essential life skills. By immersing themselves in real-world environments, they also cultivate a passion for lifelong learning.

FPD’s goal is for students to gain through their field trips an appreciation for the world around them and the endless possibilities for those who dare to explore.

What is the

Profile of a Graduate?

By: Dr. John Patterson, Head of School

FPD is rooted in its mission of “educating and equipping students to change the world for God’s glory.” The mission defines everything from the Strategic Plan goals to the interactions teachers have in the classroom with students each day.

The Profile of a Graduate was created to define the type of students that graduate from FPD. It describes what attributes the school works to programmatically develop in all graduates.

These six characteristics follow closely to the mission and show how FPD graduates stand out in the world.

A Lifelong Learner

academically prepared with knowledge, skills, and habits of mind to succeed in university studies, preparation for a career, and as an independent lifelong learner.

Challenged by the Gospel

grounded in the Gospel and its implications, with the tools to grow spiritually and understand and apply a Biblical worldview and ethic.

Equipped for Wellness

equipped with knowledge, skills, and habits of mind to live a healthy and responsible lifestyle.

Self-Aware & Growing

confidently developing academic, artistic, and/or athletic gifts and interests and using them in fulfilling and impactful ways while appreciating the gifts and interests of others.

Engaged & Persuasive

able to winsomely participate in the public marketplace of ideas as a listener and communicator – understanding, critiquing, and challenging worldviews and their implications – working effectively with others of diverse viewpoints and backgrounds while maintaining integrity of beliefs.

Sensitive to Others

cognizant of the needs of others and the community and challenged to participate in meeting those needs.

FPD Launches Five-Year Strategic Plan

FPD’s five-year strategic plan has been approved by the Board of Trustees.

In the Strategic Plan document, there are six strategic goals with initiatives that prescribe action for us to reach these goals. They are essentially marching orders for our Board of Trustees, administration, and faculty as we work to build on our legacy of excellence.

Many had a hand in shaping this plan by serving on a committee, participating in a focus group, or completing our value narrative survey.

Please take time to read through the document to see our fiveyear goals for FPD.

View the Strategic Plan at fpdmacon.org/strategic-plan-2023.

Chick-fil-A Leader Academy

FPD is focused on developing godly leaders through a variety of programs, one of which is Chick-fil-A Leader Academy. Chickfil-A Leader Academy consists of 9th and 10th grade students that meet monthly throughout the school year, and work through a curriculum provided by Chick-fil-A—focusing heavily on servant leadership. Each semester, there is a service project where students put into practice what they have been learning. In the fall semester of 2022, students visited the Oaks-Peake nursing facility, where they threw the residents a Christmas party and sang carols. In the spring semester of 2023, students participated in an event with other Chick-fil-A groups at the Macon Centreplex called “Moo-ve Out Hunger,” where 70,000 meals were packed for impoverished people in Middle Georgia.

Summer Camps for Kids

Throughout the summer, FPD offered a variety of camps and activities to help keep kids active. All camps were open to the public. Students did not have to attend FPD to take advantage of these great opportunities.

Students expanded their artistic and creative ideas with camps related to art, music, dance, and sewing. They got active and boosted their athletic skills with camps in soccer, cheer, football, softball, basketball, and tennis. They also explored in S.T.E.A.M. camps, robotics camps, animal camps, Girls-only and boys-only fun, Harry Potter camps, and so much more.

FPD’s full-day option was Camp Trailblazer. For 1st - 6th graders, Trailblazers competed in games, played outside, and explored the arts all while led by Christ-centered camp counselors.

Mrs. Carol Adams named 2023 Teacher of the Year

Congratulations to Mrs. Carol Adams on being the named the 2023 Teacher of the Year.

With over 40 years in teaching—28 at FPD—she is an alumna, a parent, and a colleague.

Mrs. Carol is known around the Lower School for having a little bit of extra sparkle or superhero inside. She can lead PreK students on searches for pirate treasure and leprechaun gold and be anywhere, anytime for whoever needs her most.

“She often pops into my office and says she’s coming to ask me a question,” said Lower School Principal Shannon Bryant, “but honestly, what she most often brings me are answers, solutions, wisdom, and encouragement. I am forever grateful to her for it!”

Mrs. Carol’s joyful attitude and approachability make her a valuable resource for fellow faculty and parents. If she doesn’t know the solution, she is never too busy or unwilling to get her hands dirty to help solve a problem. Congratulations to Mrs. Carol!

Scholarship Winners

Each year, select FPD students are awarded academic and character-based merit scholarships. These scholarships are applied to the following year’s tuition.

McKay Family Scholarship: Marley Battle

James Tate Girardeau Scholarship: Bella Marshall

Andy Bridges Memorial Scholarship: Ben Barton

Ponder Family Scholarship: Sadie Bryant

Judy Jones High School Scholarship: Claire Gardner

Judy Jones High School Scholarship: Ava Spillers

Judy Jones Middle School Scholarship: Parker Rawlings and Sophie Bonfim

Alumni Scholarship: Amelia Kemper

Strings Program at FPD

by Mr. Brayden Hutcheson, Elementary Music Teacher

The violin program at FPD started in the 2020 – 2021 school year with the kindergarten class. I taught the class by myself that year, but we hired Caitlyn Dillard starting in the second year to help. I will talk more about her later. This coming school year, the program will be K – 3rd grade. In the beginning, we purchased a classroom set of ¼ size violins. These are smaller violins designed to fit the arm length of a 6-year-old. With the program now in the 3rd grade, we will be looking to purchase either ¾ or full-size violins to fit the growing students.

Why did we choose violin rather than other instruments?

The biggest factor when choosing the instrument is where the students are developmentally. Since we are beginning in kindergarten, we wanted to be sure the instrument was appropriate for a 5- or 6-year-old to play. Wind instruments (trumpet, trombone, flute, saxophone, recorder, etc.) are significantly harder for young students because of lung capacity, coordination, facial motor skills, and losing teeth. This is why you see most children start with instruments such as drums, piano, guitar, or violin; these instruments only require fine motor skills, which are developed much sooner. Now by no means is the violin an easy instrument, but it is a much more approachable instrument for kids.

What is the Suzuki Method?

To be vague, the Suzuki method is simply a curriculum for learning the violin. There are other ways to learn, and not necessarily one right way, but in the music world, the Suzuki method is the most widely practiced and accepted method. This method approaches learning the violin like learning a language; the parents would be heavily involved, the students learn by rote (echoing the teacher), and in the early stages, almost all of the learning comes from listening. At FPD, we use

the Suzuki method as a guide, as not everything the method teaches applies to our situation. For example, the Suzuki method would call for the parents to attend the lessons with the child and act as their teachers at home throughout the week. In our classroom, the order in which we teach things, the methods we use, and the songs we learn almost all come from the Suzuki method.

Who teaches the class?

For the first year, I taught by myself. When the program expanded into first grade, we were blessed to have Caitlyn Dillard, a graduate of the McDuffie Center for Strings at Mercer University, come and help with the program. She offers so much practical knowledge of how to teach the violin to kids, as well as helping me move the program forward each year. Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, she will teach the 2nd and 3rd grade classes on her own, and I will help with the kindergarten and 1st grade classes. Having 2 sets of hands with the younger children is a huge help.

What are they learning in class?

As a general overview, in kindergarten they learn to take care of the instrument, develop good posture and habits, and learn the first 4 notes with some basic rhythms. In 1st grade, they learn to start using their fingers to change notes. This is a big step, as it takes significant finger strength, coordination, and motor skills to be able to change notes with your left hand, move the bow with your right hand, and read music with your eyes. In 2nd grade they move from reading letters to identifying notes on the treble clef. This directly ties in to when they learn to read music in our general music class. Looking ahead to 3rd grade, we are excited to further their ability to read and play, give them more advanced music, and learn more notes and techniques.

Will the program continue to expand?

We initially only made plans for the program to be kindergarten through 3rd grade. In 4th grade, everyone learns the recorder, and then in 5th grade they choose band or chorus as normal. We are currently looking at ways to continue to allow the program to expand, as well as offer middle and high school options either in our band program, or another way. Regardless, we are looking forward to the future and know the best is yet to come!

If you would like to make a financial gift to help support this program, please reach out to Kathy Tolbert at kathy. tolbert@fpdmacon.org.

A State Championship Season

The girl’s varsity soccer team finished with a record of 18 – 1 and won the GIAA AAAA State Championship with a 4 – 0 win over Stratford Academy.

The Vikings finished at the top of the highly competitive District 6 (7 – 1) and hosted both the Elite 8 and Final 4 rounds of the state playoffs. After defeating Tattnall in the Elite 8 the Vikings won a double overtime thriller 2-1 over Pacelli. The game tying goal came with less than 2 minutes in regulation and the game winner came with the near identical time in the second overtime.

The senior members of this team finished with an incredible 51 - 5 record during their varsity career and never lost more than two games in a season.

Seniors on the team included Jarrett Ward, Ellie Dukes, Emily Jones, Tate Garrison, Callie Kate Ware, Mary Holland Matthews, Sarah Grace Strickland, Laura Chan, and Sophie Chan. Emily, Mary Holland, Laura, Sophie, and junior Lucy Bonfim, served as team elected captains this season.

Emily and Sophie were named to the All-Class Senior AllStar team. Sophie, Lucy, 8th graders Bowen Matthews and Katelynn Jackson, freshman Elcee Leslein, and

sophomore Bella Fritz were all named to the GIAA 4-A District 6 All-Region team. Freshman Macie Pierce was Honorable Mention. Lucy, Bella, Elcee, Bowen, and Katelynn were also named to the GIAA All-State team. Bowen was also named the Co-Player of the Year for District 6.

Congratulations to Coach Josh Trieste who was named the GIAA Coach of the Year!

Notable Season for girls Basketball

The basketball season is about the journey together. The FPD girls basketball teams set goals and achieved them this past season. They stepped it up in big games and came through.

FPD’s Varsity girls were 19-9. They more than doubled the number of wins from last year (8-18) and won as many games as the last two seasons combined so that was quite the accomplishment in one season.

They finished second in the region regular season with a 6-2 record, were ranked in the top three of the GIAA all season, and made it to the State Final Four for the first time in many years. Though the end was not what we wanted, these girls accomplished more than any FPD girls’ basketball team in recent history.

Congrats to seniors Kendall Emener, Destinee Lanham, Stella Williams, and Callie Kate Ware.

Kendall set the all-time scoring record at FPD with 1,521 points. All-Region was awarded to Kendall, Faith Wasden, and Elly Wasden. All-State Honorable Mention was given to Elly. Kendall and Faith were named All-State.

JV team only won a couple of games the previous year and this year they tripled their win total. The team ended with as many wins as losses with several of those losses being very close. The JV program is meant to prepare players to play for varsity. It gives players opportunities they may not have in a varsity game to prove themselves, gain confidence, and improve their game. These ladies worked hard and excelled during the season. With each game, the players improved and showed determination in getting better.

FPD’s middle school girls basketball team finished the season with a 15-1 record. They won the area middle school league championship beating most teams by 20+ points during the season and playoffs. This is the first time this has been accomplished in a long time. Gerry Kosater did an outstanding job in leading this group of ladies.

Overall, the girls basketball program had major improvements this year:

Middle School – 15-1 Area Champions

JV – Tripled the number of wins from last year

Varsity– Won as many games as the last two seasons combined, finished 19-9, and made it to the State Final Four.

Middle School girls with Area Championship Trophy.

Photos: Kendall Emener (left) and Bowen Matthews (right).

Team Recaps Winter & Spring Sports Team Recaps

Baseball Swimming

The 2022-2023 swimming season was a great success for the FPD Vikings. The FPD swim team took 24 swimmers to the GIAA State Swimming Championship at GA Tech. The varsity girls swim team finished 3rd at the GIAA State Finals, with podium finishes from An An Marone and Lily Hershberg. The girls varsity team graduates several seniors: Ava Grace Baltz, Lily Hershberg, Sophia Ives, An An Marone and Sarah Grace Strickland. The future is bright for FPD swimming as the Middle School Boys team won the Middle School Championship with four boys: JC Hinson, Lawton Griffin, Warren Easom, and Jaxon Fisher. Haddon Rumford had many podium finishes at the GIAA state meet as well. What a great season these Vikings had and we look forward to an exciting future with the swim team.

The 2023 FPD Baseball team enjoyed great success in its inaugural season as GIAA members. The Vikings blended a unique mixture of youth and experience as they recorded 20 wins for the 3rd consecutive season. FPD was seeded 3rd in the Final Season Rankings, advancing to the 2nd round with exemption before eliminating St. Anne Pacelli in a come-from-behind three-game series win to advance to the GIAA Final Four. The Vikings would fall at Bethlehem Christian in the Final Four Series, but the league had been served with notice that a roster of mostly underclassmen has built high expectations in Viking Nation. The baseball program bids farewell to two members of the Class of ‘23 – second baseman, Colton McDonald, and left fielder, Griffin Green. Both provided strong leadership and experience to the squad, and both will be missed. “I just can’t thank Colton and Griffin enough for their attitudes and great presence on our squad for the last 3 years,” said FPD Head Coach, Greg Moore. Four Vikings were selected to the District 6 All Region team – Colton McDonald (Sr), Keon Johnson (Fr), Tinsley Lewis (Fr), and Hayes Bryant (Jr.). Bryant was named the All-Region Co-Pitcher of the Year. Additionally, Johnson, Bryant, and McDonald were selected as AllState players. The Vikings have compiled an impressive 63-32 record over the last three years, with winning records locally amongst rivals and a Region Championship and Final Four appearance.

Wrestling

BOYS BASKETBALL

It was a year of rebuilding for the varsity boy’s basketball team. New Head Coach Greg Nix led the team with discipline and integrity, setting up a foundation for a bright future for the program. After working in a hard in the offseason, we are excited about moving forward next year as we anticipate adding several upperclassmen along with capable Junior Varsity and Middle School players to the high school program. Basketball graduates two seniors Jackson Dai and Akoi Fumbah.

Under the leadership of Coach Ken Garvin, the 20222023 Wrestling Team had a great season. Junior Colby Self finished third in the Bibb County Championships. In the Area Tournement, Self was again third, Patrick Thompson finshed first, and Thomas Everitt, fifth. Self finished fourth and Thompson third in the State Sectional Tournament. Self placed fifth in the State Tournament. There were no seniors on this year’s team. We are already looking forward to the 2023-2024 season.

The varsity boy’s soccer team had a very successful GIAA season. The Vikings spent a large portion of the season ranked in the MaxPreps top 5 and entered the postseason as the #3 ranked team in the state. They fell in the Elite 8 to the eventual state runner-up. The seniors on this year’s team were Akoi Fumbah, David Reeves, Caleb Lyles, Ethan Thomley, Gunner Heath, and Jackson Dai. Fumbah and Heath, along with junior Carter Hays and freshman Dominic Economopoulos, were all named to the GIAA 4-A District 6 All-Region team. Catch Kitchell was Honorable Mention. Fumbah and Heath were also named to the GIAA All-State team and named participants in the All-Class Senior All-Star match. Reeves was an All-Star Honorable Mention. Reeves, Heath, and juniors Kitchell and Jake Greene all served as team elected captains in 2023. The team finished the season 10 - 4.

Boys Soccer Track & Field

The varsity boys and girls track and field teams had very successful seasons this spring, and continued to increase their year to year participation. Both the boys and girls finished as Region runner ups, and we had 37 athletes qualify for the state meet. At state, we had several athletes finish on the podium. Highlights include senior Destinee Lanham being named state champion in the girls discus, Faith Wasden placing third in the girls 400, and Jakhari Williams placing fourth in the boys high jump.

Including the Region Championship, FPD hosted six varsity track meets this season at the Dick Frame Track Complex. Improvements to our automatic timing system and track scoreboard have helped solidify FPD as the premier track and field venue in the middle Georgia area.

Tennis

Varsity girls were 18-1 and were crowned Middle Georgia Invite Champs as well as region champs. The individual region champs were Natalie Griffin in singles, and Abby Gayle Moody and Olivia Guzzo in doubles. The state runner up in individual was Averi Jones, who made it to the final 4, and the team of Moody and Guzzo were crowned individual state champs. Five athletes were named All Region: Moody, Guzzo, Griffin, Jones, and Katelyn Jackson.

Varsity Boys were the Middle Georgia Invite runners up and region runners up. Chris Hanks and Evan Cheek won region individual doubles champs. Three athletes were named All Region: Cheek, Hanks, and Logan Johnson.

The JV team had an undefeated regular season against teams from 1A to 5A.

We are proud of the leadership of our seniors: Griffin, Moody, Guzzo, and Abi Bossé-Joseph. These seniors are the winningest class in history of FPD tennis with 64 wins.

Boys Golf

The boys golf team enjoyed being undefeated in head-tohead golf matches this season going 8-0. The boys also competed well in tournaments by finishing in 3rd place at the Brookstone Classic, winning the region championship tournament and finishing in 6th place in the GIAA state golf tournament. We graduated the following seniors: Cole Hetes, Oakland Bell, Josh Smaha, Marsh Massey, Benjamin Tart, Will Culver, and William West.

Girls Golf

FPD Girls Golf completed the season in the first GIAA girls golf state competition. Senior Avery Robinson shot a 77 and was named to the All State Team. Mary Katherine Walsh, Ava Grace Baltz, McKenna Jernigan, and Hadley Anderson also competed in the state tournment. We are grateful for the leadership of our seniors: Robinson, Baltz, Walsh, Jernigan, Emily Edwards, Ellie Dukes, and Mary Grace Girardeau.

FPD Theatre Celebrates

Stellar Year

The echoes of applause still linger in the air as we celebrate the magic that unfolded on First Presbyterian Day School’s stage during the past theatre season. From the first note struck to the final bow taken, it was a journey that left us moved and transformed. Not only did students perform a variety of shows that wowed audiences during the 2022-2023 school year, but it also marked Director of Fine Arts Dr. Andrew Strickland’s 20th year at FPD.

“I love to tell the story that I originally had committed to stay at FPD for five years to build a program then planned to move on,” Strickland said. “In those five years, however, I fell in love with this amazing school. My students and faculty colleagues became a family to me. So, here I am 20 years later! Part of the theatre season this year was my opportunity to revisit three shows that I had previously directed at FPD, including my all-time favorite play, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream.’ It was such a blessing to share these old favorites with our current performers and audiences!”

The elementary play, “The 33 Little Pigs” by Brian D. Taylor, was the first of the season. It took the classic story of The Three Little Pigs and gave it a heavy dose of pop culture references.

Featuring a cast of talented 4th and 5th graders, the wolf (played by multiple performers) found way more than he bargained for with an endless variety of pigs: pirate pigs, chef pigs, detective and police pigs, dinosaur pigs, and many more. As in the original story, the pigs all banded together to save themselves from the very overmatched wolf.

The competition one-act play, “Elephant’s Graveyard” by George Brant, had a very successful run. The play told the powerful true story about the public execution of a circus elephant in Erwin, Tennessee, in 1916.

FPD’s production won the GISA 6AAA competition with Declan Myers and Ella Washburn both being named Outstanding Performers of the competition. “Elephant’s Graveyard” then advanced to state competition where it placed 5th overall with great comments and praise from the judges. Myers was again named an Outstanding Performer, which is the equivalent of being named All-State in sports, while Washburn received an honorable mention.

“The Enchanted Bookshop,” staged by middle school students, was celebrated as one of the best middle school shows in years. During the day, the bookshop A Likely Story looks like any other used bookstore. But at night, it was a place where the characters inside the books come alive. Twenty-seven students from grades 6th-8th brought this magical performance to life. An additional highlight of the show was the beautiful, realistic bookstore set, built by high school technical theatre students.

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” a musical based on the Biblical story of Joseph written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, was FPD Theatre’s biggest show of the year and rocked the stage. The high-energy, familyfriendly performance with numerous musical styles was fun for everyone and entirely sung by the cast. The FPD student cast did amazing work and was supported by extraordinary sets and lighting.

The last show of the season brought a 1980s twist to William Shakespeare’s classic “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The performance used Shakespeare’s original words but was reset in the social center for 1980s teens: the shopping mall! Featuring actors in 8th-12th grades and the fashions and music of the 1980s, FPD Theatre’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” changed the way audiences looked at Shakespeare.

“While I enjoyed the chance to look back at my time at FPD this year,” Strickland said, “the real purpose of a theatre program is to move forward, to find the next stories to tell, and to help the next group of students discover and use their amazing gifts for God’s glory. I am so thankful to the Lord for bringing me to FPD.”

FPD Theatre Awards 2023

Outstanding Performance by a Group

Kyla Gay, Sydney Hice, and Anna Leigh Lowrimore

The Narrators from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Excellence in Vocal Performance

Declan Myers, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Excellence in Specialty Stage Movement

Hollis Correa, Elephant’s Graveyard and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Outstanding Debut Performance – Actor

Tripp Gradwell, Elephant’s Graveyard

Outstanding Debut Performance – Actress

Victoria King, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Outstanding Middle School Performance – Actor

Hudson Crosby, The Enchanted Bookshop and A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Outstanding Middle School Performance – Actress

Samantha Gray, The Enchanted Bookshop

Lilly Lako, The Enchanted Bookshop

Breakout Performance – Actor

Harvey Roddenberry, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Breakout Performance – Actress

Bella Law, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Excellence in an Lead Role – Actor

Declan Myers, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Excellence in an Lead Role – Actress

Abby Tillery, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Excellence in a Featured Role - Actor

Caedmon Strickland, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Elephant’s Graveyard

Excellence in a Featured Role – Actress

Ella Washburn, Elephant’s Graveyard, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Excellence in an Ensemble Role – Actor

DJ Spires, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Excellence in an Ensemble Role – Actress

Paige Duckworth, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Outstanding Comic Actor

Hollis Correa, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Outstanding Comic Actress

Ella Washburn, Elephant’s Graveyard, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Outstanding Dramatic Actor

Declan Myers, Elephant’s Graveyard, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Outstanding Dramatic Actress

Bella Law, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Anna Thompson, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Volunteer Award

Max Murnan

Serlio Award (Excellence in Technical Theatre)

Harvey Roddenberry

The Director’s Award

Luke Strickland

Band Awards

Four FPD students were selected for the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) South Region Honor Band. They performed with the Honor Band in April at Valdosta State University. Congratulations to:

Oliver Hunt – Alto Saxophone

Ben Waits – Euphonium

Tripp Gradwell – Trumpet

Samantha Gray – Flute

Dance

FPD’s Varsity Hip Hop (Directed by Mrs. Lydia Gray) and Varsity Prop (Directed by Dr. Andrew Strickland) both won their divisions at the Beach Bash Nationals in Myrtle Beach, SC. FPD’s prop duet featuring Abby Tillery and Luke Strickland also won.

Varsity Hip-Hop Varsity Prop

Jazz Night Swings to New Heights in Spectacular Performance

On April 22, 2022, FPD’s Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble took to the stage for an unforgettable performance.

The third annual Jazz Night took place at Idle Hour Country Club. Under the direction of Mr. Jonathan Baker, FPD’s director of bands, guests enjoyed a wonderful night of jazz and fellowship.

Performances included “Livin’ on a Prayer,” Puttin’ on the Ritz,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” from the Middle School Jazz Band. The High School Jazz Ensemble followed up with tunes including “Twist and Shout,” “Fly me to the Moon,” and “Hey Jude.”

Special thanks to Sheryl Burgess, Bill and Wendy King, Dr. Andrew Strickland, Kristy Hunt, and the parents and grandparents of the FPD Band Program.

FPD Golf Tournament

FPD hosted our 23rd Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, April 3, 2023, at The Brickyard Golf Club. We welcomed over 30 teams to a new course this year. Initially, the weather forecast didn’t look in our favor, but after the storms came through, we were fortunate to get all 18 holes of golf in. We are so grateful for our presenting sponsors, Smith, Brown & Groover and Sutton Acura. Thank you to everyone who participated and for the volunteers and sponsors that made the event possible.

Save the date:

Monday, March 25, 2024, The Brickyard Golf Club

1st place Net: Justin Bradley, Walter Sanders, Trey King, and Josh James

1st Place Gross: Keith Johnson, Dalton Johnson, Dax Schroeder, and Eric Phillips

Day School Society Reception & Dinner

The Day School Society is FPD’s giving club for donors who give an annual gift of $1,000 or more, or who have contributed a lifetime total of over $100,000.

Our Day School Society members play a crucial role in helping FPD carry out our mission of educating and equipping students to change the world for God’s glory.

Each year, we host a reception to show our gratitude for our Day School Society members and to celebrate their faithfulness to FPD. For the past two years, we have hosted the reception at Natalia’s.

This year, we were fortunate to have invited over 140 families to our Day School Society reception.

We are so grateful for our Day School Society members and their continued loyal support for FPD. We’ve certainly been blessed with supporters who believe in the mission of FPD and are committed to continuing the legacy!

ALUMNI NOTES

1984, 1985, 1988 1991

2005

FPD had three alumni inducted into the Macon Sports Hall of Fame this spring: Coleman Tidwell , ‘88, for outstanding contributions in golf, Greg Moore, ‘84, for outstanding contributions as a coach, and Jamie Myers Watkins, ‘85, for outstanding contributions in tennis.

Congratulations to U.S. Navy Electronics Technician Navigation 1st Class Colby Maddox, ‘05, for being named the U.S. Naval Submarine School’s 2022 Sailor of the Year.

2010

Mary-Frances Eversole Wylie, ‘10, and husband Denver Wylie welcomed their first baby, Robert “Duke” Wylie, on July 30, 2022. The Wylies recently moved back to Macon after Mary-Frances graduated from UGA’s Veterinary School in May 2022. Mary-Frances is a Veterinarian at Northside-Wesleyan Animal Hospital, and Denver works at the family business, Macon Outdoor Power, with brotherin-law Stanton Eversole ‘12.

2007

Kelley Richardson Hester, ‘91, had an outstanding year – as head coach she took the Clemson Tigers’ Women’s Golf Team to their first ACC Championship and was also named ACC Coach of the Year!

1997

Ashlie Wright David, ’97, and her husband, Clark celebrated the graduation of their oldest son, Wade, from Prince Avenue Christian School. He was named Valedictorian and will attend GA Tech pursuing a degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. Siblings, Brooks (16) and Amelia (12) attend Prince Avenue as well. Ashlie and Clark live in Athens where Ashlie is an Associate Broker with Southern Land Exchange and Clark is Regional Dev. Manager with AgSouth Farm Credit.

Will Darnell, ‘07, and his wife Brittany welcomed their daughter Florence Lily on February 10, 2023. She weighed 6lbs 6oz. Will and his family currently reside in Griffin, GA, where he and Brittany are both CRNA’s.

2011

Anna Gainey Spinks, ‘11, and her family recently moved from Macon to Amarillo, TX, where she is the Director of Marketing for the Amarillo Sod Poodles, the AA affiliate for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Daniel Jones, ’13, married Grace Koncerak on February 22, 2023, at Mt. Rainier National Park in Washington State. They live in Rawlins, Wyoming.

Alexander Nelsen, ‘13, just completed his coursework for an MBA from Georgia Southern University. He is a “Double Eagle” – he completed his B.S. in Economics from Georgia Southern in 2017. He is now living in St. Mary’s, GA, and working at Baptist Health in Jacksonville as an analyst in their purchasing department.

Grace Tinkey, ‘13, was inducted into the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association Hall of Fame on January 14, 2023. Grace is currently a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force and is in European NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training (ENJJPT) in Texas. Grace ran cross country and track for FPD.

Mary Persons Ludwig ‘17, and Captain Stephen Ludwig, United State Army, were married at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, on February 11, 2023. Mary and Stephen currently reside in Sierra Vista, AZ, and will be moving to Alaska in September.

Congratulations to Luke Dasher, ‘20, on winning the Southeastern Invitational Golf Tournament in April of this year!

Congratulations to Austin Cox, ‘15, on being called to the major leagues with the Kansas City Royals!

Wilson Andress, ‘18, was named Georgia Southern University’s Male-Scholar Athlete of the Year!

Austin Murray, ‘20, was awarded second trombone with the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra after his audition in March. Austin is currently a student at Columbus State University.

Celebrating Faithful Service

Faculty and Staff Reunion Luncheon

On Tuesday, April 25, 2023, FPD was honored to welcome back over 30 of our former faculty and staff to our annual Faculty and Staff Reunion Luncheon.

It was a great day of fellowship, sharing memories and touring our beautiful campus. Our guests were able to hear updates on every aspect of our school from our current faculty and staff, including a special update from Mrs. Anna Leigh Hutcheson on our new Elementary Innovation Station.

FPD is so grateful to these dedicated educators and staff for making our school what it is today, and we celebrate their lasting legacy. We look forward to next year’s luncheon!

We want to keep in touch with all of our former faculty and staff – please update your contact information with us to ensure you’re notified of future events!

Email Lauren Jones: lauren.jones@fpdmacon.org to update your contact information.

Photos: Top—group photo of the 2023 attendees. Bottom— former faculty Mrs. Patti Fuchs and Mr. David Walton.

RESERVE THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

Reserved seating for the 2023 football season is now available!

FPD is looking forward to another great season of Viking football, and with that comes the opportunity for Viking Nation to purchase reserved seats at the George S. Johnson Memorial Stadium. Reserved seats are limited and are tiered in price based on their position within the stands.

Seat purchases are tax deductible, minus a game-entry fee. All proceeds from the purchases go to benefit the athletic department.

To purchase seats, visit our website at fpd.booktix.net. Seats are sold on a first come, first served basis.

For more information, Contact Lauren Jones at lauren.jones@fpdmacon.org.

Titus Moore, ‘18

Where did you attend college and what was your major?

I attended Samford University and got my bachelor’s in Business Marketing in the spring of 2022.

What were you involved in during your time at FPD?

FCA, Track and Field, Basketball, and Football

Are there any specific teachers/coaches that had an impact on you?

Mrs. Hattaway, my 6th grade home room teacher and Coach Dick Frame, my track and field coach. Mrs. Hattaway gave me a great way to express myself by creating a learning environment that was caring and relatable. While that was true, the thing that stood out to me the most was how she provided me with my first platform to influence others. Once I graduated from her class, she offered me many opportunities to come back and speak to those coming after me. That was my first opportunity to see how influential I could be to those around me. It is something I have found a passion for because of that initial platform given to me by

Mrs. Hattaway. Coach Frame taught me so many lessons in athletics as well as life. During my time with him as my coach, he showed me the resilience that athletics teaches for life. Sometimes life can be tough to navigate. Using my trials and tribulations in sports, he helped build the spiritual foundation that gives me the motivation and persistence to keep doing my best through those tough times. It is something that is just as easily applicable to my everyday life.

What is your favorite FPD memory?

My favorite FPD memories are lunch days in the senior lounge. Being able to talk about goals and aspirations with some of my classmates is what helped build some of the strongest friendships that I still have today.

What are you up to now? Tell us a little about your track and field career.

I am currently completing my first year of a 2-year MBA (Masters of Business Administration) program at Samford University. I am still running on the track and field team at Samford as well.

What are your plans for the future?

Once I graduate from the MBA program in the spring of 2024, I plan to work full time at one of the companies I’ve interned with (Coca-Cola/Danone North America) or any consumer goods company as a brand manager. I also plan to compete at the Olympic trials next summer in Eugene, OR, to complete my track and field career.

How do you feel like FPD prepared you for what you’re doing now?

FPD taught me how to navigate the season of my life following high school. There were a lot of different trials and temptations that came with transitioning into college. Remembering teachings and lessons from FPD gave me a great deal of comfort in who I am and who I do it for. I always had people that I met from FPD to lean on when times were tough.

Titus has had an impressive track and field career both at FPD and at Samford. These are a few of his accomplishments while at Samford:

- secured 3 school records (60-meter hurdles - 7.79, 110 meters hurdles-13.83, 4 x1 - 40.11)

- Has 2 Southern Conference records (60m hurdles, 110m hurdles)

- 3x NCAA East qualifier

- 6x Southern Conference Champion

Titus also qualified for the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in the men’s 110-meter hurdles.

Titus ran the race in a school-record 13.70 seconds, breaking the previous record of 13.75 seconds he set in the first round. His performance, which placed him 11th in the race, punched his ticket to the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, June 7-10, 2023, in Austin, Texas.

Titus competed in the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in early June and posted an impressive time in the 110-meter men’s hurdles semi-final. We look forward to watching him compete again next year!

Pictured above: Titus at his undergraduate graduation posing for the Samford iconic photo with Mr. Beeson. Titus jumping hurtles at Western Carolina University. Titus gives a presentation on his internship at CocaCola.

“There were a lot of different trials and temptations that came with transitioning into college. Remembering teachings and lessons from FPD gave me a great deal of comfort in who I am and who I do it for. I always had people that I met from FPD to lean on when times were tough.”

Join us for this year’s Homecoming festivities!

We look forward to welcoming back our alumni on Friday, October 20, for our alumni tailgate and football game.

Class reunions for the classes of 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013 and 2018 will take place Saturday, October 21.

For more information, visit fpdmacon.org/homecoming.

New this year, the Alumni Baseball and Soccer Games!

We are excited to welcome back our alumni who played soccer and/or baseball while at FPD. We’ll have alumni soccer and baseball games Saturday, October 21, from 10 am – 12 pm.

If you plan to participate, please register at fpdmacon.com/homecoming.

ALUMNI AWARD NOMINATIONS

The following awards are given out every year at the FPD Homecoming football game. Please send an email with your nominations to Lauren Jones at lauren.jones@fpdmacon.org no later than Sept. 1, 2023.

Distinguished Alumni Award

An alumnus/alumna who has made an outstanding contribution through his/her vocation or who otherwise deserves to be recognized for outstanding achievement in some field or endeavor - an individual who has “changed the world for God’s glory.”

Service Award

An individual who has shown continued service and support to FPD. They can be an alumni or anyone connected with FPD.

2023 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

West Laurens HS

GIAA Kickoff Classic

Brookstone

Laney HS

Pinewood Christian

Mt. Pisgah

Commerce HS

Mt. De Sales*

John Milledge*

Tattnall Square*

Stratford*

First Round State Playoffs

Second Round State Playoffs

Third Round State Playoffs

GIAA State Championship

*denotes a region game