4700 Spring/Summer 2022

4700 ALUMNI

SPOTLIGHTS

HONORING THE

CLASS OF 2022

Spring/Summer 2022

Franklin Road Academy provides a challenging educational experience in an inclusive Christian community with an unwavering commitment to develop leaders of integrity and purpose.

M IS SIO N STAT E M E N T

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A LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL This has been an incredibly busy time at FRA to say the least! As I reflect on the school year, I am grateful for all that took place on our campus and excited for all that is to come. Our students continue to amaze me with their broad range of seemingly limitless talents and their commitment to one another. Our faculty members continue to shine in the lives of our students, not only as exceptional educators but as mentors and role models who go above and beyond for our students. And in the midst of the normal routines of an eventful academic calendar, our advancement office skillfully managed to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of FRA with numerous events culminating with the Golden Hour Celebration in May! What a great night for FRA! As you read this edition of the 4700, I hope you enjoy hearing about the accomplishments of our students, particularly the class of 2022, as well as their fellow alumni who are making their mark on the world as entrepreneurs and leaders within their communities.

I am confident you will share in my enthusiasm as we launch our Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and continue to design innovative educational initiatives across our campus and expand our core academic program. It is an amazing time to be at Franklin Road Academy. As parents of four FRA alumni, my wife Jill and I are blessed to be a part of this remarkable community, and we are excited for all that is to come.

Thank you for your support of FRA, and I hope you enjoy this issue of the 4700.

Sincerely,

Sean R. Casey

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TA BLE OF

CONTENTS

7

13

19

41

47

59

FEATURE Honoring the Class of 2022 Acceptances & Matriculations

STUDENT LIFE Spiritual Emphasis Week Wellness Feature

GOLDEN HOUR Celebrating our 50th Anniversary

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS Middle School Musical: "Frozen Jr." Spotlight: Students Who Inspire Third Grade Poetry Café

ALUMNI PROFILES Katie Coben Aelvoet '11 John-Mark Bolton '05 David Andrews '96

ATHLETICS College Signings Season Highlights and Accolades

COPYRIGHTED 2022 BY FRANKLIN ROAD ACADEMY. Franklin Road Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, nationality, religion, or ethnic origin, or the administration of its educational and admission policies, scholarships, athletic, and other school-administered programs. Franklin Road Academy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Southern Association of Independent Schools. The 4700 is a bi-annual publication of the communications office. ON THE COVER Camille Richardson '26 competes as a member of the middle school girls lacrosse team. The womens lacrosse program at FRA has over 40 athletes at the middle and upper school level.

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2022-23 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

32

ACADEMICS Entrepreneurial Leadership Interim Experiences

39

ROBOTICS Middle School RoboPanthers Head to World Championship

Jared Allen Penny Austermiller Jeb Beasley Victor Berrios Sara Elizabeth Bradford Roger Brown Karla Calderon Matt Cassel Randy Chase Matthew Denmark Steve Halas Steve Maggart Richard McRae R. Dale Mitchell Rosemary Plorin Jaimie Robinson Andrew Scarlett ’97, Board Chair Christy Smith Gabrielle Wesley EX-OFFICIOS Clif Tant ’94, Past Board Chair Jamie Robinson ’01

LEADERSHIP TEAM Brandon Albright, Director of Spiritual Life Stacey Banks-Houston, Director of Entrepreneurial Leadership Sean Casey, Head of School Channing Clark, Head of Middle School Angela Claxton, Director of Marketing and Communications Steve Compton, Director of Technology

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ALUMNI Class Notes Family Additions Alumni Award Winners

73

WHY WE GIVE The Axford Family

Georgie Goldthorpe, Health Services Administrator Ryan Harris, Assistant Head for External Affairs Dr. John Murray, Dean of Academic Affairs Kris Palmerton, Director of Athletics Jay Salato ’03, Head of Upper School Dr. Brodrick Thomas, Director of Diversity, Community, and Inclusion Laura Turner, Assistant Head for Finance and Operations

EDITORS Angela Claxton and Brian Shaffrey. ART DIRECTOR Angela Claxton. PHOTO CREDITS Brian Shaffrey and Evan Webb. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beau Kirschner '22, Sean Casey, Katie Coben '11, John-Mark Bolton '05, David Andrews '96, Brandon Albright, Stephanie Feyes, Allison Hammat, Kelly Klingbeil, Ellie and Tommy Axford, and Elle Wesley.

Dr. Rick West, Head of Lower School Courtney Williamson, Director of Admission FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 4

Welcoming our newest

TRU ST EE S PENNY AUSTERMILLER Penny is the co-owner and manager of eight different construction and property investment companies. The most prominent of these companies is Austermiller, Inc., where she serves as the corporate secretary and general contractor. Over the last 22 years, she reorganized the once soleproprietorship into a corporation and has since increased revenue each year, becoming one of middle Tennessee’s premier roofing contractors.

Before joining Austermiller, Inc., Penny was a project manager at Spheris, where she was responsible for the technical and functional management of the entire implementation lifecycle of the Spheris platform, handling multiple projects in various stages concurrently.

Penny joined the Franklin Road Academy community in the fall of 2019 when her daughters, Joslin and Julia, entered 5th and 7th grades.

SARA ELIZABETH BRADFORD Sara Elizabeth graduated summa cum laude from Wake Forest University with a B.S. in mathematics in 1999. Upon graduation, she worked as a mergers and acquisitions banker for Bowles Hollowell Connor (acquired by First Union Bank), Ernst & Young Capital Advisors, and McColl Garella. She served on the board of Edmondson Elementary School in Brentwood, as PTO treasurer, and PTO president.

At FRA, she has served as the seventh grade parent rep, grade-level rep for the Annual Fund, chair of the 2020-21 Annual Fund alongside her husband Will, and upper school chair for the 2021-22 Annual Fund.

Sara Elizabeth and Will have volunteered to once again serve as chairs of the Annual Fund for the 2022-23 school year.

Sara Elizabeth and William Bradford joined the FRA family when their oldest child started fifth grade in 2015. They have four children, Lily Grace (11th grade), Liam (9th grade), Annabelle (7th grade), and Burke (8 years old).

NEW BOARD MEMBERS

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MATT CASSEL Matt is a former NFL quarterback who played on seven teams during his 14-season career. Matt’s most notable stints were with the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs. He played college football at USC and was selected by the Patriots in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft. Since retiring, he has served as a television football analyst on NBC Sports Boston.

Cassel's most successful season came in 2010 when he led the Chiefs to their first division title since 2003, earning Pro Bowl honors in the process. After leaving Kansas City, Cassel had a brief stint with the Minnesota Vikings before spending the remainder of his career in a backup role for the Buffalo Bills, Dallas Cowboys, Tennessee Titans, and Detroit Lions.

Matt and Lauren Cassel joined FRA in 2016 with Quinn in first grade, Ella in Pre-K4 and Matthew in Pre-K3. Clay and Lily each followed their siblings and started at FRA in Pre-K3.

Matt currently serves as an assistant baseball coach while Lauren coaches volleyball.

RICHARD MCRAE III Richard is the managing general partner of McRae Investments, a private investment firm that engages in a broad range of investment activities across multiple industries. Richard leads all investment activities for the firm as well as manages investments for the McRae Family Charitable Foundation. Prior to joining McRae Investments, Richard worked at Dollar General Corporation where he was vice president of strategy and finance. He led teams responsible for realestate site selection, corporate strategic planning, and competitive data analytics.

Richard and Adrienne McRae came to FRA from Oak Hill in 2019 when their daughter Kaylee started fifth grade. Their son Duncan joined FRA as a fifth grader from Currey Ingram in 2021.

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F E AT U R E

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Honoring the Class of 2022 COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS WRITTEN BY BEAU KIRSCHNER, Valedictorian

W

When Mr. Salato and Mrs. Bachert called me into the office and told me the news that I would be this years Valedictorian, I felt two very conflicting feelings. The first was an

incredible sense of pride and relief that all the work I have put in throughout high school paid off. The second was absolute fear. I remember thinking to myself, “Is it too late to fail all my classes so I don’t have to give a speech at graduation?”

However, realizing that I would never let myself do such a thing, I decided to suck it up. With the task of writing a speech ahead of me, I did what people do when assigned an important job; I consulted Google and YouTube. After many hours watching and reading examples of speeches, I realized it was about time I should get going on my own speech.

However, I found myself doing just about anything other than what I needed to be doing, because, as most of us know, that’s what you do when you’re trying to be productive.

I grew up as the youngest of three kids in an amazing and supportive family. In fact, my two older sisters, Sunny and Saylor, are two of the greatest human beings to ever walk the face of the earth, and no, they did not pay me to say this.

Sunny, who graduated from FRA in 2020, is remarkably wise, incredibly gentle, and crazy talented. Saylor, who graduated from FRA in 2019, is highly intelligent, loves without limits, and is incredibly tender hearted. To say I grew up with two amazing sisters is an understatement. I would even say that growing up with two older sisters has been probably one of the most

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impactful gifts I could have ever received. They have taught me so much simply by being in my life, and I am incredibly grateful to have been able to observe and learn from them.

Having two older sisters has taught me many things— how to communicate, how to always keep an open mind, and how to always take the blame for things I didn’t do. But I would say that the most important thing that my sisters have taught me is a concept called the law of attraction. The law of attraction is the idea that you receive the type of energy you put out into the world, meaning positive thoughts attract positive experiences while negative thoughts attract negative experiences. If you are feeling excited, enthusiastic, passionate, happy, or appreciative, then you are sending out positive energy into the universe.

In turn, that positive energy will attract people, resources, opportunities, and experiences that give off that same energy.

The universe doesn’t care what kind of energy you release into the world, it simply responds to what you have to offer. So, by changing the type of energy you release into the world, you change the way the universe responds to you. In other words, you can create the life you desire simply by aligning your positive feelings and emotions with your desires. Every struggle and every triumph that we’ve experienced these last four years have led us to where we are today, and as we move on to college, we have endless

"Learn to fall in love with yourself and the rest will follow. Until you’ve found that passion, those forever friends, or that lifeline, know that this graduating class is a special group and we will always be each other’s anchors."

opportunities awaiting us. For the first time in our lives, we will be completely on our own, so I encourage each and every one of you to dwell on the good around you, for it will come back to benefit you.

I believe that the time we have spent here at FRA has prepared us to do amazing things. The experience we’ve gained, the knowledge we’ve obtained, and

- HARRISON DOUGLASS, Salutatorian

the relationships we’ve made have given us all the tools that we need in order to become successful. And while each of our experiences here at FRA may have been different for better or worse, I believe that we

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can all find something to truly be grateful for. For me, FRA

no greater time than the present. Next is to completely

has provided a space where I can not only pursue a depth

immerse yourself into your passions because true joy can

of knowledge of topics taught within the classroom, but

be found in doing the things you love. Lastly, focus on the

also a greater knowledge of the world and of myself and

abundance of good in your life because whatever you give

who I strive to become. The relationships I’ve made with

your energy and attention to is what will come back to you.

my friends, the support of my teachers and mentors at FRA, and the endless love from my family have given me the

To my fellow classmates, I believe that all of you are

confidence to embark on a challenging but exciting journey

incredibly capable of experiencing the best of what life

where I have the ability to create the life that I desire, and I

has to offer and I have loved being a part of such a special

couldn’t be more grateful.

group of people. 

As we come to the end of high school, I want to pass along

During his time at FRA, Beau was a member of Student Council,

some of the best pieces of advice that I’ve received these

National Honor Society, the Turner Fellowship program, and the varsity

past few months. First is to say yes to everything, with

soccer team. As a senior, he was the recipient of the Most Outstanding

moderation of course, because you never know what could

Senior Boy award and named TSSAA DII-A All-District in soccer. Beau

come to fruition by being willing to experience new things.

will continue his education at Georgetown University in the fall.

Second is to always live in the moment because there is

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HONORING THE Edward Raymond Ackerman * Brooks Henry Bannerman Noah Wilson Beasley * Hailey Ruth Blahauvietz * Charlotte Alden Bradshaw Nathaniel Lee Browning * Alexander Frederick Bruno Samuel Grant Buck Ryan Joseph Casey Alexia Ann Cole Loren Rhea Cole Claire Elizabeth Conley Kennedy Claire Connell * William Butler Cooper, Jr. Tristan David Cowan Levi Gordon Eagye Cox Payton Landon Culp Ansley Grace Cummiskey * Emily Richelle Day * Benjamin John Dernbach * Leah Caroline Dinker Dyson Scott Dismuke * Currey Anderson Douglass Harrison Taylor Douglass Israel Josiah Fayne Arthur George Felker II Garrett James Finnegan * Eleanor Rae Ford Julia Katherine Fortune * Thatcher Daniel Frankfather * Analise Patterson Gibbs Natalie Grace Gillum * Jeremiah D. Greer John Daniel Hanley Paige Avery Harris * Kimiko Jennifer Hashimoto * Sarah DeRusha Hawkins * Shania Emily-Jewel Hayes Brookelynn Jade Hunter Josiah DeShawn Jackson Brianna Noel Janbakhsh *

CLASS OF 2022 Elijah Max Jones Elizabeth Frazier Jones Amelia Elizabeth Keese Weston Christopher Kelly Beau Houston Kirschner Cole Alexander Knestrick Kaiden Gray LeAnna BreAnna MacDougall Hayden Lee Marwill * Gianni Angelo Matosich Hadley Hammond Maxwell Lauren Frances Reagan McGinness Macie Margaret Medes * Jackson Campbell Millar Freya Elizabeth Moss Carter Newton Oliff Joseph Harry Papin Lily Gates Paris Noah Hill Parrott Brennan Robert Richardson Natalie Marie Richter Reilly Madison Robinson Allyn Rachel Sapire Ryan Michael Shafer Sarah Tate Smartt Millie McRae Smith Mimi Nicole Smith Andrew Ryan Solley John Tippin Somers * Tyler Clark Speed * Kathryn McGuire Spencer Isabelle Mayfield Steinert Tha'mar Arturo Stephenson Anna Margaret Takahashi * William Craig Turner * Adeline Elizabeth Vaughan Jeffery Wayne Vercher Sophia Hauer Vincent Elizabeth Li-Jie Wang Emily Reagan Wilson * 12-Year Club Members

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Canada

United Kingdom

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES & MATRICULATIONS Agnes Scott College American University Appalachian State University Arizona State University Auburn University Austin Peay State University Bates College Baylor University Belmont University Berea College Berry College Birmingham Southern College Boston College Boston University Bridgewater State University Brown University Bucknell University Butler University California Polytechnic State University Case Western Reserve University Chapman University Claremont McKenna College Clemson University Coastal Carolina University College of Charleston Colorado Mesa University Colorado State University Columbia College Chicago Connecticut College Dartmouth College Davidson College Denison University DePaul University DePauw University Drake University East Tennessee State University Eckerd College Elon University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Emerson College Fisk University Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Florida Polytechnic University Florida Southern College Florida State University Fordham University Furman University George Washington University Georgetown University Gonzaga University Hampshire College Harding University High Point University Hillsdale College Indiana University-Bloomington Kenyon College Lee University Lipscomb University Louisiana State University

Matriculations Acceptances

Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Chicago Loyola University New Orleans Lynn University Marshall University Miami University, Oxford Middle Tennessee State University Mississippi State University Montana State University Mount Holyoke College Murray State University New York University Newcastle University North Carolina A & T State University North Carolina Wesleyan College Northeastern University Northern Arizona University Notre Dame College Ohio State University Ohio Wesleyan University Oklahoma State University Pace University Pennsylvania State University Pepperdine University Purdue University Rhodes College Roane State Community College Roanoke College Rutgers University Ryerson University Saint Louis University Samford University Sarah Lawrence College Savannah College of Art & Design School of the Art Institute of Chicago Seton Hall University Skidmore College South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Southern Illinois University-Carbondale Southern Methodist University Syracuse University Temple University Tennessee State University Tennessee Technological University Texas A & M University Texas Christian University The University of Alabama The University of Montana The University of Tampa The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga The University of Tennessee-Knoxville The University of Texas at Dallas The University of the South Toronto Metropolitan University Trinity College Trinity University Tufts University Tulane University of Louisiana Union College

Union University University of Alabama at Birmingham University of Alabama in Huntsville University of Arizona University of Arkansas University of British Columbia University of California-Davis University of California-Irvine University of California-San Diego University of California-Santa Barbara University of California-Santa Cruz University of Cincinnati University of Colorado Boulder University of Colorado Denver University of Dallas University of Dayton University of Delaware University of Denver University of Evansville University of Florida University of Georgia University of Indianapolis University of Kansas University of Kentucky University of Louisville University of Massachusetts-Amherst University of Memphis University of Miami University of Mississippi University of Missouri-Columbia University of Nebraska University of North Carolina at Asheville University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of Notre Dame University of Oklahoma University of Oregon University of Pittsburgh University of Richmond University of San Diego University of South Alabama University of South Carolina-Columbia University of South Dakota University of South Florida University of the Pacific University of Toronto University of Tulsa University of Vermont University of Washington Valparaiso University Vanderbilt University Villanova University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Washington University in St Louis Western Kentucky University Wheaton College William & Mary Wofford College Xavier University

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Golden Hour:

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF FRANKLIN ROAD ACADEMY This spring, over 400 FRA alumni, parents of alumni, current parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends celebrated 50 years of Franklin Road Academy at Golden Hour, the culminating event of our 50th Anniversary celebration. The evening included musical performances by parents of alumni, CeCe Winans and David Lee Murphy, and was a wonderful opportunity for our community to look to the past, celebrate the present, and toast to the future.

50TH ANNIVERSARY

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REMARKS WRITTEN BY SEAN CASEY, Head of School

W

When I first arrived at FRA eight years ago, my wife Jill and I were attracted to the inclusive Christian mission of FRA delivered in the context of a

challenging educational experience. We loved that our kids could be challenged to be both people of faith and people of intellect. We were also fascinated by the generous spirit that existed on this campus. It was clear that people really cared about one another, and that care and concern ran deep.

Over the years, we have experienced that care first hand on countless occasions, and I'm excited to see how God's story on our campus continues to unfold.

The completion of the first phase of the Unique Moment in Time Campaign for FRA provided over $31 million dollars in capital and annual support and has had a transformative impact on our campus. Dynamic spaces like the Scarlett Family Chapel, the Weicker Center for Student Life, the Crockett and Tansil Fitness Center, the lower school portico, the new tennis and soccer pavilion on the Hill, and two new innovation labs in the lower and middle schools provide an environment that reflects the quality of work taking place on our campus.

To watch programs that started long before my arrival continue to flourish as well as newer programs like robotics, lacrosse, dance and so many others take off before our very eyes is truly gratifying. I hope for many of you returning to campus after a number of years, this place looks a little different and yet feels a little the same.

While FRA is a collection of programs, buildings, people and their stories, it is really, at the most

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Thank you to our presenting sponsor:

Jani-King of Nashville A special thank you to the Golden Hour Celebration Committee: Karla Calderon, Chair Melissa Beasley Billy Bradshaw Jessica Boyd '00 Jay Dalton '88 Virginia Lee Dinker Zach Fisher '08 Melanie Jackson Ann McKinney Stephanie Mitchell Kelly Mick Donna Murphy Jenny Scarlett Beth Somers '84

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fundamental level, the accumulation of hundreds of millions of interactions. It's our teachers hugging a student when they see he or she is having a bad day; it's a student congratulating a classmate on a great game or an incredible performance in the musical; it's our college counselor texting me with exclamation points when one of her students gets into Georgetown or Vanderbilt.

We are not just about the BIG moments or the grand gesture, but more importantly, we are about the smallest of interactions and the subtlest of gestures.

Sometimes, because we are in the business of helping kids grow, that means we are a little messy, but it also means we are authentic in our experience. Our authentic care has been a hallmark of FRA long before my arrival, and it is a unique quality that is in the DNA of our FRAmily which continues to be amplified today.

Our teachers care deeply about our kids, and our kids know and respond reciprocally. Our students aspire to be great, but they don’t need to do so at the expense of the person next to them. It is amazing to see this happen! It is truly a remarkable time to be a member of the FRA community!

As we look to the next fifty years, I am ever mindful that FRA is not my school. I am a caretaker of the community, a steward… FRA does not belong to me.

Years ago, my daughter Taylor was studying corporate structure in an entrepreneurship class in college. At the time, she texted me the words: employee, CEO, board, shareholders. Then she asked, “Who are the shareholders of FRA?” I replied, "YOU ARE." The alumni of FRA are our shareholders and have the most to gain as our footprint continues to grow in Nashville.

As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary, I invite all of you to share in our strategic vision for the next 50 years as we continue to dream for all that is to come. 

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HONORING OUR

Retiring Faculty BRENDA JEWELL 24 YEARS OF SERVICE "Her students, past and present, walk quickly toward her classroom and her office for her comforting voice and her advice.

Most days it is just because she is so much fun, but also because they trust and love her. I know from my own experience, and as a parent, day in and day out that Brenda stops whatever she is doing, to give full attention to anyone that walks in her door.

Brenda is a teacher, a great teacher, and a Christ-Like teacher."

- Bob Chandler

KATHY MALONE 23 YEARS OF SERVICE "Kathy has always set a high bar for her students and helped them every step of the way to meet those lofty expectations. Kids have learned early on in Kathy’s classroom that it was going to be a challenge to succeed but at the end, they have realized that the journey through 7th or 8th grade math has made them not only better math students but better people. Kathy has nudged, pushed, mentored, and helped countless math students to believe in themselves and embrace the challenges that math provide."

- Chris Hart

H O N O R I N G O U R F A C U LT Y

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BETH SCHWANER 12 YEARS OF SERVICE "Her expectations for her students are high, and the kids strive to meet them because SHE is working as hard as they are to give HER best every day. Her delight when a student has success is palpable, and if you didn’t hit the target this time, she will walk beside you until you grasp the concept. Beth loves her students and it shows every day. She has broadened the definition of diversity and equality on this campus, she holds to her standards of excellence, and she is never afraid to love you enough to tell you the truth."

- Michelle Nelson

LUCY WEICKER 18 YEARS OF SERVICE "Lucy has served our school as a foreign language teacher, middle school volleyball coach, pre-kindergarten teacher assistant, lower school assistant, dining hall volunteer, morning car duty, and has kept stats for numerous baseball games. When asking her coworkers to describe Lucy, this is what they say about you. Lucy is hard working, she’s intentional, helpful, loving, efficient, funny, she truly listens and doesn’t interrupt the conversation talking about herself. She’s a workhorse. Her laugh is contagious."

- Terri Snider

ED ZABOROWSKI 41 YEARS OF SERVICE "Zab is a perfect blend of a hard-nosed task master raised in a military family and a soft-hearted, sensitive teddy bear, who genuinely cares about others. From me and on behalf of generations of students...thank you. Thank you for baking cookies, making masks, watching and wondering, coaching and caring, teaching, and never tiring of learning. Thank you for showing up and taking on more than your share to get it done.

Thank you for giving of yourself day after day, year after year after year."

- Kris Climer

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A L U MN I

PROFILES We are always amazed at the work our alumni are doing in their professional lives and communities. In this section, alumni share their stories about life after graduating from FRA .

As we prepare to launch the Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, we hope you enjoy hearing about the journey of these three alumni entrepreneurs.

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Katie Coben Aelvoet '11 F

Franklin Road Academy has always had a mission of building confidence in their students and preparing them for

what the world has to offer. Since graduating in 2011, I’ve seen myself remain true to who FRA prepared me to be in my community, in my business, and in the life of my own family. I’ve been taught not only an excellent education, but a firm foundation in Christ that has helped me remain true to who I have been made to be.

During my years on FRA’s campus, I was met with an incredible, inclusive community that loved each and every single student that walked through the halls. I was given mentors that taught me a personal Christian mission and how to live a life of love and refined character. As I went through twelve years as an FRA student, I was developed into a young professional with a caring character.

I was given an incredible education that allowed me to be fully prepared for my years at Texas Christian University. I was taught small things, like how to professionally communicate, superior writing skills, and keen ethics. I was taught how to navigate

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of FRA , I know how to lead them each well, how to love them, and how to support them through their lives and careers. FRA instilled in me how to remain true to my values and lead with grace, as I lead a business that works to make a difference in the life of others. Mentors such as Coach Hart taught me what it meant to work hard toward a goal. I became a State Champion on his girls basketball team during my time on campus and finally understood how to push forward with endurance.

During my time at TCU, I discovered an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for using business to help others. Following graduation, I moved back to Nashville and purchased my first Pure Barre Studio in Franklin. I had taken the endurance and strategic vision I’d learned from my years at FRA and hit the ground running to excel my business. With growing a business under my belt, I eventually bought and operated a Pure Barre location based out of Boca Raton in 2018. After taking that studio from the red to green, I felt I had achieved my goal and made a profitable business for the next owner. A few years after selling my Florida location, I purchased the Gulch Pure Barre location in 2021. Through my years of building new clientele and relationships at each studio, I’ve seen the character and ethics FRA instilled in me rise to difficulties and how to maintain a strong work-ethic.

Above all else, I was taught how to be confident as a woman, how to dig my feet in, and how to continue to treat others just as Jesus would have.

The lessons and values I’ve taken away from my years at FRA are invaluable. At my current businesses, I lead around fifty employees. Because

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the forefront of who I am.

After experiencing the community at FRA for twelve years, that has been the culture and atmosphere I hope to build with each studio I acquire. Each of my teachers and staff at FRA developed me and pushed me to be the best I could be. I was grown and taught to excel by each interaction I had. Each of my peers, teammates,

coaches, and teachers are support systems I’ll

met with confidence from their foundational

carry with me for the rest of my life.

years at Franklin Road Academy. 

As I look at the businesses I’m currently running

Katie graduated from FRA in 2011 and was a member

and reflect on my years at FRA , I am most proud

of the 12-Year Club. In upper school, she played varsity

of who FRA helped me become. Franklin Road

basketball and was awarded All-Region and A-Team

Academy was a safe space where I was able to be

captain of the 2011 State Champion team. She was

vulnerable, shaped, and pushed into a confident

also involved in Model UN and played on the varsity

young woman. I was taught to take risks and that

volleyball team. Katie attended Texas Christian

I had the tools to be a successful, caring leader in

University, where she graduated with a degree in child

any community I stepped into. My hope for the

development and was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta

future generations of FRA students is that they

(Gamma Psi chapter). In 2021, Katie was inducted into

find the people on campus that can help them

the inaugural Athletics Hall of Fame at Franklin Road

dive deeper. I hope students find those teachers,

Academy as a member of the 2011 State Champion

mentors, or coaches that help them not only

Girls Basketball Team.

learn, but perceive the amazing world around them, as they did for me. I hope students soak up the passion running through FRA’s faculty and staff, continue to dream for the future, and are

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John-Mark Bolton '05

F E AT U R E D A L U M N I

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F

Franklin Road Academy’s mission continues to reflect who I’ve become as an individual and as a business leader and entrepreneur. When coming to FRA in the middle of my high school

years, I had a perspective different than most my peers. I had attended other schools throughout my life, and nowhere could have prepared me or molded me as FRA did my final two years before college. There is a clear difference in the importance stressed on developing each part of the students that attend here; their character, their values, and their education. During my years at FRA , I had the chance to live with another FRA family, as my family lived outside of Nashville.

Those years were some of my most formative of my entire life. Having the chance to drive the family’s two lower school students, having the chance to be self-supporting, and having to lean on the faculty and staff around me showed me the incredible support system that made up Franklin Road Academy’s entire campus. I took a leap of faith being away from my family, but I had classmates, mentors, and teachers that were my Nashville family. As a graduating senior, I had felt prepared and responsible, which made my transition to secondary education effortless.

Following my years at Franklin Road Academy, I went to play soccer at the University of Louisville, where I was also

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majoring in chemistry. In my head, the plan was to play soccer professionally and continue a passion that had always been instilled in me.

Due to an injury, my soccer career was cut short and my plans were ultimately derailed. I had so much energy, drive, and focus and I needed a new passion to pour it all into. Early in college, I picked up an entrepreneurial spirit and began creating online businesses. I took the creativity, persistence, and eager spirit I had learned from FRA and started stepping into the business world.

In 2013, just a couple of years after graduation, I was introduced to pest control. I recognized the flagship that could be done, plus what was missing in the industry and began getting busy strategizing. I partnered with two skilled entrepreneurs in the industry who had prior experience and used every dollar I had earned from prior business ventures to start building to where I am currently.

On April 15, 2013, after taking what I’d learned from my previous businesses and pairing

FRA offered a new perspective, and I learned that I could accomplish anything— not only as a business leader, but as a leader in the lives of others. I want my employees to be leaders and not only help grow our business, but to help impact our community.

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knowledge with their expertise, ClearDefense Pest Control was born. My partners and I started from the ground up growing from nothing to $1 million in revenue in the first four months. For the past nine years, we’ve launched twenty locations across multiple states and have earned a seat in the nation’s Top 30 largest pest control companies.

Our goal is to become a national company and a household name. For me, this business is just the start of the beginning and thanks to the perspective I gained from FRA , the passion for my

business boils down to the people who help make

Looking back on my years at FRA , I know now

my company what it is; my employees.

that I couldn’t have achieved or ended up where I am without the time I had there. As I currently

One important thing I learned at FRA was that

live away from Nashville, I can only hope to

people can either be taught or they can be

send my two sons to a school just like Franklin

developed. At ClearDefense Pest Control, I hope

Road Academy, where they can be taught to

every single day I am doing what FRA does in

dream, love, and learn well as they become the

developing loving leaders. FRA offered a new

best version of themselves.

perspective, and I learned that I could accomplish anything—not only as a business leader, but as a

John-Mark attended FRA his junior and senior years

leader in the lives of others. I want my employees

and graduated in 2005. During his time at FRA , he

to be leaders and not only help grow our business,

was an All-State and All-Region soccer player and a

but to help impact our community.

talented art student, winning the upper school Art III award. John-Mark and his wife Shayna have two sons,

At FRA , there was an importance to holding

Stearns and Rollins.

people accountable, molding them, and loving them well. FRA has a foundation that supports people and grows them. I strive each day to create a similar culture that not only leads by example, but serves by example. At ClearDefense Pest Control, we are in a hurry to serve!

I will forever be grateful for my years at Franklin Road Academy and for how it has led me to be the type of leader and entrepreneur I am today.

Beyond a stellar education, I was taught integrity and how to do the little things right. I chased qualities of success and how to find the best in each human because that’s what was done for me when I was at FRA . I learned to take ownership of who I am and how I achieve the next best thing. I was reaffirmed in my strengths and supported by my teachers, who encouraged me to chase more than just monetary success, but the happiness and fulfillment that comes with loving and supporting others.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 26

David Andrews '96 S

Some of the most monumental moments of my life and of my development have happened on Franklin Road Academy’s campus. From kindergarten through graduation, I spent every

school year learning skills that could set me up for not only a successful work ethic, but with a character that approaches all I do with love.

From my twelve years at FRA , each teacher, coach, and member of staff treated me with kindness and love. I remember Mrs. Howell, who always taught me that no matter what, everyone deserved love and respect. I remember Mrs. Brock and Mrs. Oakley, who both encouraged me beyond my imagination and always reminded me I could achieve amazing things. FRA was a place filled with people like Coach Zab, who would write and read poems to his students, uplifting their spirits no matter what the school year brought.

On FRA’s campus, I was shown that one kind action sticks with people and inspires them for their whole life, as it did with me.

At FRA , I have so many fond memories from the Gingerbread Hunt, to dodgeball in front of Danner Hall, to even making my first crème brulee for French Club. As I look at where I’ve landed now as executive chef and owner of my own bakery, D’Andrews Bakery, it has taken a confidence and compassion that I learned from my years at FRA . I was pushed to try new things and had teachers like Mrs. Bolt who would encourage me to cook, bake, and discover this passion.

F E AT U R E D A L U M N I

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FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 28

29 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

Looking back on it all, it makes sense that I ended up

today, for how each member of the FRA community

in this profession. My favorite extra credit projects

has helped and supported me, and for the lasting

at school were the ones that included me making

relationships that have been produced in my life.

a dish or pastry. I was so intrigued by watching cooking shows, and when I was younger, my

I am so proud to be an FRA alumnus and couldn’t

grandparents would take me to New York City, where

be prouder of the amazing people the school has

I was fascinated by the dining and restaurants. I

provided both in my life, and in the Nashville

appreciated the art behind cooking, and I couldn’t be

community. The types of leaders that have

more grateful for the family and teachers that helped

come from FRA are kind, loving, and innovative

push me towards this passion.

entrepreneurs. FRA helped guide, nurture, and encourage us, and for that I’ll be forever grateful. 

Following my graduation from FRA , I went on to college where I took with me how to be a loving leader and compassionate friend to all those around

David attended FRA from 1983 to 1996. He is an award-

me. After graduating college, I went back to work for

winning business owner and executive chef at D’Andrews

my family business, where I learned more hands-on

Bakery, located at 555 Church Street in Nashville. David

details for leading a business. After a few years back

has been awarded the Nashville LGBT Chamber 2022

in Nashville, I spent time in culinary school in New

Small Business Leader of the Year (presented to him

York City. I was fortunate enough to intern at a three-

by 2021 winner Hal Cato ‘83), the 2021 Small Business

star Manhattan restaurant, which then led to a job as

Diversity Award, and currently serves as a board member

a pastry cook following my time in culinary school.

for Nashville Cares.

I proceeded to join a friend in opening a quick-serve Chinese inspired restaurant and ultimately ended my time in New York City as the executive pastry chef at the Kimberly Hotel.

By 2016, I was ready to come home to Nashville, where I have since opened D’Andrews Bakery. I knew coming home was the right place for me to not only grow my business, but to share what I learned since I had been gone. Since 2018, I have seen such a cultivation of my hard work and dreams be laid into the foundation of my business; many things I wouldn’t have learned without some of my mentors at FRA .

I’ve watched so many alumni, mentors, and teachers, walk through the doors of my bakery, and each time I am overwhelmed with gratitude. I am so grateful for the community I have been a part of, and still am a part of, since I was in kindergarten. I am so amazed by the memories that have carried through

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THE CENTER FOR

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN ROAD ACADEMY LAUNCHES AN ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM AND WELCOMES A NEW PROGRAM DIRECTOR

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F E AT U R E S T O R Y

T

The Franklin Road Academy Center for

PROFILE OF AN GRADUATE

Entrepreneurial Leadership was established as an important initiative outlined in our current Strategic Vision to expand experiential

and innovative learning opportunities. The curriculum and programs are designed to inspire our students to pursue their passions while equipping them with the skills required to chart their own path. Starting this fall, upper school students will begin the entrepreneurship program by taking the finance and communications foundational skills course.

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP & FINANCE This semester course is focused on developing the foundational

THINK CRITICALLY & CREATIVELY • Exhibit intellectual curiosity • Seek innovative solutions and examine multiple perspectives

LEAD & COLLABORATE • Inspire, empower, and support • Contribute actively as team members

skills required for success in entrepreneurial work including public speaking, presentational skills, financial literacy and budgeting, and research skills. This course will strengthen core competencies and skills that are valuable across disciplines while propelling students into the incubator course.

INCUBATOR COURSE Beginning this fall, students can start taking this course, which is a rigorous year of project-based learning where students solve real-world problems by creating and testing their business model. Students have the opportunity to create and fully develop their own product or service using lean methodologies. From concept to pitch, students learn to hypothesize, test, and adapt.

ACCELERATOR COURSE Beginning in the fall of 2023, students will be able to take this year-long course, which builds on the experiences of the incubator course and allows students to fully develop their business concept into a sustainable, functioning business.

This includes growing a customer pipeline, creating contracts and terms, developing operating systems, and continuing to build, test, and iterate the product or service. Throughout the program, students will focus on legal and banking concepts, customer acquisition, business processes, and solution development.

ENGAGE GLOBALLY • Value and learn from diverse people and cultures • Demonstrate cross-cultural understanding

DEMONSTRATE RESILIENCE & GRIT • Perservere through difficulties • Embrace challenges and approach setbacks as opportunities for growth

COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY • Listen to and respect different viewpoints • Speak and write with clarity and confidence

LIVE OUT CHRISTIAN PRINCIPLES • Seek opportunities to serve • Treat others with honesty, kindness, empathy, and humility

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 32

CONNECTING THE CURRICULUM ACCELERATOR COURSE STUDENTS DEEP DIVE

THEIR SELECTED PATH

INCUBATOR COURSE

STUDENTS SELECT A PATH

(E.G. BUSINESS,NON-PROFIT, GLOBAL STUDIES)

UPPER SCHOOL

FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS COURSE

MIDDLE SCHOOL

FOUNDATIONAL EXPERIENCES

LOWER SCHOOL 33 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

INTRODUCTORY EXPERIENCES

INTRODUCING OUR NEW PROGRAM DIRECTOR Stacey Banks-Houston will serve as the director for the new Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and the newest member of the school’s senior leadership team.

After an extensive national search, FRA hired Stacey to lead the development of the Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Ursuline College and a master’s degree in business administration from Cleveland State University. She is currently obtaining her doctorate degree in education from Northcentral University.

“I am thrilled to welcome Stacey to our community as a member of our senior leadership team and the director of our Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership,” said Head of School Sean Casey. “Stacey is a charismatic leader with incredible experience as both an educator and entrepreneur. She received overwhelming support for her candidacy throughout the search process as someone who is passionate about the mission of our school and excited for the

“The enthusiasm and commitment the faculty, staff, and students have shown for the Center of Entrepreneurial Leadership demonstrate how vital this program is to the student experience at FRA. I’m excited that the entrepreneurship program will focus on the inclusion of benevolence, philanthropy, and community service as essential tenets of the program. I am blessed to have the opportunity to work with the FRAmily and look forward to building a phenomenal program and playing a role in establishing an entrepreneurial mindset with our students.”

- Stacey Banks-Houston

opportunity to impact our students.”

Stacey has over 20 years of experience in entrepreneurial leadership and development and business ownership including 10 years in academia as a faculty member, workshop presenter, and venture advisor at the high school and university level. In her most recent role, Stacey served as a faculty member for the Young Entrepreneurship Institute at University School in Hunting Valley, Ohio and as an adjunct professor for entrepreneurship at Baldwin Wallace University in Berea, Ohio. Her previous roles include serving as director of the Women’s Business Center in Tampa, Florida, executive director of the Cuyahoga County Small Business Development Center in Cleveland, Ohio and as a faculty member of the Summerfuel Program at Yale University.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 34

interim |

experiential learning & service opportunities

BY STEPHANIE FEYES, Upper School Biology Teacher

W

Would you rather learn about how plastics effect our oceans in a classroom or sail around the British Virgin Islands collecting water samples at various coral reefs to test them for the presences of microplastics back on the

sailboat? Would you rather watch an episode of Law & Order or meet with judges, lawyers, and law enforcement officers to learn about Nashville’s criminal justice system? Would you rather be told about the songwriting process or work with a professional songwriter to write and produce your own piece? I think we would all agree the latter options would be more impactful for all of us. These examples are just a few of the opportunities our students have been able to experience during Interim at FRA. Interim is a week-long experiential learning opportunity that allows our students to get outside of the typical classroom setting to learn by doing. Engaging students in hands-on experiences allows them to connect what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

Upper school students can choose to go on a mission trip and spend a week serving others by participating in activities including building structures, painting houses, leading devotions and playing with the children in the communities.

ACADEMICS

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FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 36

» Job Shadowing & Entrepreneurial Ventures Did you know that one of our most popular upper school Interim options is the opportunity to job shadow a professional or spend time with a mentor who can share expertise in a field of study for college? Job shadowing helps students gain new perspectives and allows them to get a first-hand look at future career options. We are always seeking partners to connect with our students!

If you are interested in potentially hosting a student for a job shadow/mentorship experience, please let us know. This is a great way to get involved with the FRA community and to identify students interested in your line of work and your organization.

They are also given the opportunity to travel domestically or internationally, which allows our students to experience the sites, languages, and cultures around the world.

Some upper school students select local experiences and immerse themselves in the culture of Nashville— from touring historic Civil War sites to outdoor adventures to taking classes in photography, wood working, and yoga. Additionally, students interested in exploring a future career are given the opportunity to job shadow, allowing them to dive deep into a profession they may want to pursue.

Middle school students also enjoy the opportunity to travel and explore during Interim week. Eighth grade students take their yearly trip to Washington, D.C.; seventh graders travel to the Smoky Mountains; sixth graders participate in Space Camp in Huntsville; and

»

For questions, contact Betsey Bachert: bachertb@franklinroadacademy.com

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fifth graders take day trips around Nashville.

During Interim week, lower school students have the unique opportunity to rotate through the school and experience fun and engaging (and sometimes messy!) hands-on learning. From games and experiments to crafts and chemistry, Interim in the lower school is packed with dynamic learning.

Whether students travel aboard, visit a local farm, or experiences for our students to serve, experiment, and grow. These opportunities also allow our students to discover and explore their passions that may not be a part of the typical school curriculum.

As a teacher, I love Interim. I have had the opportunity to travel during Interim to Hawaii, the Florida Keys, the British Virgin Islands, and

»

learn how to rewire a light switch, our faculty develop

a lu m n i c o n n e ctio n s

Charleston, South Carolina for experiences revolving around marine biology and history. I know what you are thinking, of course those trips are going to be fantastic, those locations are amazing. While the places we traveled to were top notch, it was the students on these trips that truly made the

Ritchey Tomich Graham ’94 spoke to a group of current FRA upper school students before they embarked

experiences once in a lifetime. From the time they

on their 2022 Interim job shadow

step foot in the airport, they were all in. They were

adventures. Ritchey’s class was the

willing to try new things and push themselves outside of their comfort zones. My expectations for each trip do not even come close to the experience we all have.

While the classroom is great, it is limiting in trying

first class to experience Interim at FRA and she shared how her job shadow experience influenced her current career choice in the medical field.

to immerse students in the content. While it is only a week each year, Interim can be life changing for

Ritchey currently works for HealthTrust Performance Group as a manager for the Physician Advisor Program and previously served as the director of business development for TriStar Health Wound & Vascular Services for HCA Healthcare.

»

students. 

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Robo Panthers MIDDLE SCHOOL ROBOTICS TEAM QUALIFIES FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BY

KELLY KLINGBEIL, Middle School Robotics Coach

The 2021-22 VEX IQ robotics season marked the second year the middle school robotics program competed. During the first year, the teams practiced in a make-shift lab in an older building on campus. How things have changed this year! The middle school RoboPanthers now have a permanent home in the brand new Middle School Innovation Lab and raked in a record six awards this year. Out of five FRA robotics teams that competed during the season, three of those teams went on to the State Championship and two qualified for the World Championship in Dallas.

ROBOTICS

39 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

The team’s new home comes complete with plenty of storage, collaboration and building space, and the 6’ x 8’ playing field.

The entire space is bordered with windows, so there is plenty of natural light and passersby can watch as the team members practice.

This year’s IQ game is called “Pitching In” and challenges teams to build and program a robot to move twenty-two balls around a field. Points are earned by depositing balls into goals, whether those goals are at field level or elevated, which requires teams to use a catapult system. Teams may also gain points by ending their 60-second run in a hanging position. At competitions, two robots work as an alliance in 60-second-long teamwork matches, working collaboratively to score points.

At the season’s first event, Team 56123B (Kinsley Moulds, Avery Cook, and Charlotte Slocum) placed first in the entire event and was awarded the Teamwork Champion Award. The second event, yielded the program two more awards as Team 56123C (Ryleigh Rhoden, Trevor Perrine, and Max Thompson) earned the Deign Award and Team 56123A (Kai Smith, John Hanna, and Jason Huddleston) took home the Innovate Award.

The third and final regular season event ended with another three awards: 56123C won the Design Award again, Team 56123D (Dexter Kinder, Henry Hamilton, Jack Keedy, Thomas Lown, and Rowan Brennan) was the Robot Skills Champion, and 56123B took home the Build Award. Strong performances throughout the season by Teams B, C, and D earned them a spot at the State Championship.

In May, two middle school robotics teams competed in the VEX World Championship in Dallas, Texas with teams from 48 countries. Teams included 56123C and 56123D. Team 56123C was in the design division and Team 56123D was in the research division. At the championship, the teams had a total of ten qualifying matches and ended up in the top 50 percent of all teams at the championship. 

The middle school robotics team is an important component of our strategic initiative to expand innovative programs. We recognize that our students must be able to creatively solve problems in a rapidly changing world.

Participating in an advanced robotics program provides our students with opportunities to lead and grow as they develop into thoughtful, wellbalanced individuals.

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S P I R I T UA L

EMPHASIS WEEK BY

BRANDON ALBRIGHT, Director of Spiritual Life

Spiritual Emphasis Week has long been a beloved tradition in the history of Franklin Road Academy. While our Christian mission is a focal point of our community and emphasized throughout the year, this week is set aside to give us an opportunity to truly dive deep by exploring a Biblical theme as a way to encourage and challenge our students and community.

This year, our theme was ALIVE. Over the last few years, we’ve experienced a time like no other in our lifetime. Our day-to-day lives looked different; the way we did school and life looked different; our interactions and relationships looked different. On top of that, we still experienced the hardships that come in a broken world – turmoil, anxiety, sickness, disease, death, division. As we prayed through a message for our community, we kept coming back to what gives us hope: God is ALIVE and in this with us. None of this has been a surprise for him and he’s active and involved in our world and in our lives.

SPIRITUAL LIFE

41 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

Job 12:7-9 tells us, “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. The hand of the Lord has done this.”

God is reminding Job, in the midst of a dark and difficult season for him, that he has not been abandoned. He tells him to look around at the reminder of that truth: all creation points us to a God who is ALIVE. We see that same story echoed throughout scripture and in our daily lives today. As we look around, we see that our world is and was created to be ALIVE. Every morning, when night is at its deepest, the sun rises and light breaks through. Each spring, we observe the dead of winter roll away and creation become ALIVE again. Grass escapes out of the frozen soil, leaves begin to stretch out from their branches, and plants display a multitude of colors. This is by the design of a grand architect who is reminding us, even in the smallest of ways that he is ALIVE as well. He sees us, knows us, is with us, and loves us.

"But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. The hand of the Lord has done this."

- Job 12 : 7-9

Celebrating our 50th Anniversary as a school, we also had the pleasure of hearing from alumni as our SEW speakers. Over the course of the week, they shared how they have seen God ALIVE in our world, and how he stirs our hearts to be on this journey with him and experience life in its fullness.

Holly Pewitt Koogler ’95 and Sharon Pewitt Crabtree ’99 are sisters as well as faculty and staff members at FRA . Holly is the assistant director of admission and Sharon teaches junior kindergarten. They shared about the helpers that God sends us to remind us that he is ALIVE with us. They taught the

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 42

story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and the helper God sent to be present with them in a hard time. They revealed how God still sends a helper to us through the Holy Spirit.

Kingston Gardner ’20 is a student at Belmont University majoring in Creativity and the Entertainment Industries. He shared about the power of God’s word and how God comes ALIVE to us through it as we learn more about him.

Adam Devries ’00 is the associate pastor of youth and their families at First Presbyterian Church.

Adam spoke about the ways we know that God is ALIVE and what a life centered on him reflects.

He challenged us not to build our life on power, privilege, pleasure, or popularity, but instead on the life-giving love of Jesus.

Eric Diggs ’18 is a recent graduate from Cornell University where he majored in finance and played on the football team. He recently wrote his first book, "Living for Christ," and influences many through his social media platform. Eric shared what it means to be ALIVE, how he’s experienced that in his own life at both FRA and in college, and gave advice to students on how they can follow Jesus in their own lives.

Mattie Jackson Selecman ’08 is the author of "Lemons on Friday," a certified sommelier, previously owned a wine bar, and co-founded a philanthropic merchandise brand dubbed “NaSHEville” in order to help women and children in need–specifically orphans, widows, and trafficked women. Mattie shared with our students that she gave her life to Christ at Spiritual Emphasis Week in 7th grade.

During her time with us, she shared her powerful story of tragically losing her husband and how God met her in the midst of that to remind her that he is ALIVE. She talked about the difference between believing that Jesus is ALIVE as our Lord and Savior and that Jesus is ALIVE with us every day, and challenged us to see him at work in every bit of our lives.  43 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

Cracked... but not broken BY

ALLISON HAMMAT, Director of Counseling

As a part of the strategic vision for 2020-25, FRA has prioritized enhancing health and wellness training for our students, faculty, and parents. We have seven counselors serving students across the lower school, middle school, upper school, and ASPIRE program. In addition to the wellness newsletter and ongoing academic programming, the wellness feature in the magazine is one of several resources the counseling department provides throughout the year.

T

This spring, the counseling department had the opportunity to attend a wellness conference sponsored by the Southern Association of Independent Schools. Dr. Dave Verhaagen, psychologist and author, delivered the keynote address. His talk was both enlightening and inspiring as he focused on the concepts of Kintsugi and Post-Traumatic

Growth. Intrigued by these topics, I eagerly dove into the research to learn more. In this article, I share what I have learned in hopes that you too find hope and direction through these concepts.

Kintsugi is a centuries-old Japanese art technique involving the repair of cracked and broken pottery. This unique method not only repairs the pottery and reclaims its purpose, it also celebrates each artifact's unique history by emphasizing its fractures and breaks instead of hiding or disguising them. The technique involves rejoining the broken pieces with lacquer mixed with

W E L L N E S S F E AT U R E

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 44

powdered gold. When put back together, the whole

with highly challenging life circumstances."

piece of pottery is revitalized with a new look and a second life. By embracing flaws and imperfections,

Generally speaking, an event might be considered

you can create an even stronger, more beautiful

highly challenging when it threatens a person’s

piece of art. Precious scars and brokenness are not

understanding of the world and his or her ability

discarded but instead, highlighted and proclaimed

to function within it. It is precisely when the

with pride. At the end of the process, you have a

foundational structure of the self is shaken that we

piece of artwork that is more beautiful than it was

are in the best position to pursue new opportunities

before it was broken, because it was broken.

in our lives. Post-traumatic growth does not deny deep distress, but rather suggests that adversity

Let’s consider using Kintsugi as a metaphor for

can unintentionally yield positive changes in

healing ourselves. This technique teaches us an

understanding oneself, others, and the world.

important lesson: Sometimes in the process of repairing things that have broken, we actually

Post-traumatic growth does not nullify or lessen

create something more unique, beautiful and

grief. Instead, PTG should be conceptualized as

resilient.

something that co-exists with distress or, more specifically, something that only exists because of

To take the analogy one step further, trauma is

distress. Post-traumatic growth evolves from the

taking the pottery and shattering it on the ground.

same processes people use to cope with grief. So, in

Post-traumatic stress is the recognition that

effect, post-traumatic growth is an unexpected, but

everything is shattered and the attempt to put that

beautiful, byproduct of pain.

vase back together exactly as it was before. Taking all of the shards and repairing them into something

We all have a story—a story before experiencing a

new, making a new experience that is beautiful

traumatic event, the story of the traumatic event and

and functional because it has all the same pieces

the story after it. Existential exploration following

yet stronger than before, that is the path to post-

a trauma can lead to an experience filled with

traumatic growth.

meaning and personal growth. Develop your story in

WHAT IS POSTTRAUMATIC GROWTH? Richard G. Tedeschi and Lawrence Calhoun created the term ‘post-traumatic growth’ in the mid-90s at the University of North Carolina. According to them, people who undergo post-traumatic growth thrive in life with a greater appreciation and more resilience. They define PTG as, “a positive psychological change in the wake of struggling

45 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

a way that makes you feel strong and resilient.

Sadly, it often takes an event, like trauma, to awaken us from our stupor, shake us at our core, and launch us into the potential of thriving. Notice I said potential. It is ultimately our choice, to lean in to the distress or deny it. When we lean in to the potential of growth, we live in the awareness of life's deeper meanings. We know that we can create and seek deeper meanings in our life and often a trauma will and can help that process. When we are able to acknowledge that we have been through something traumatic, only then can we can take the time to heal it and have the opportunity to experience posttraumatic growth.

»

WHAT DOES POST-TRAUMATIC GROWTH LOOK LIKE?

1

GREATER APPRECIATION FOR LIFE AND/OR CHANGED SENSE OF PRIORITIES • Have a greater sense of appreciation for what you have • Experience a shift in priorities • Redefine what you consider “important” • Have a greater appreciation for the “small things” in life

2 3 5

MORE INTIMATE, DEEPER, OR WARMER RELATIONSHIPS • Feel a greater sense of compassion for others • Experience compassion from others • Are able to focus on the relationships that truly matter and ignore those that are harmful or unhelpful • Feel the experience has helped you to “find out who your friends are” • Realize the need to cherish your relationships

A SENSE OF INCREASED (OR DISCOVERED) PERSONAL STRENGTH • Greater sense of self control and emotional balance • An enhanced ability to cope and adapt • A greater sense of perspective during times of hardship • Increased feelings of independence and confidence

4

OPENNESS TO NEW POSSIBILITIES IN LIFE Often the realization of vulnerability and the discovery of new strength and perspective can lead people to make new or more meaningful decisions regarding their path in life.

SPIRITUAL GROWTH Whether you considered yourself a religious person at the time of the trauma, struggling with existential and spiritual questions can often lead to a deeper, more refined sense of belief and understanding.

?

WHAT CAN WE DO TO PROMOTE PTG? • • • • •

Seek out positive social support and ideas Demonstrate a problem-solving attitude Mobilize action over thoughts Practice gratitude and lean on your personal faith Find a sense of community and belonging FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 46

arts

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

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Frozen Jr.

THE HEART-WARMING MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSICAL BY

M

ELLE WESLEY, Class of 2026

Musical theater has been my outlet to

and after the show was a dream. Getting into

tell a story through song, dance, and

character, stepping into the costume, and all that

acting. I have always loved musicals and

pre-show magic makes me smile. Before we get to

singing for as long as I can remember.

our beginning places, we do our prayer circle. The

Franklin Road Academy always provides me with

prayer circle is where all the cast and crew make

opportunities to do what I love–perform on a musical

a circle, give any last announcements, pray, and

theater stage, such as I did with this year’s show,

shake all our nerves away before the show begins.

“Frozen Jr.”

For me, right before walking on stage is the best feeling because you are eager to show what you

The process of putting on a musical is a lot more

have worked so hard for. Then, you walk on the

difficult than people may think. First, we audition and

stage, the spotlight is hot on your face, a sold-

share our musical talent with our director, Ms. Mia,

out crowd with familiar faces sits there, and the

and her team. Although the idea is very intimidating,

nerves go away–for me at least. All that is left is to

the FRA theater team makes you feel comfortable

perform, and that is what I love most.

and supported no matter what. Then the cast list is posted, and you are introduced to your cast family

The most complicated scene in “Frozen Jr.” was

and the characters you are playing for the next four

during the song, “Let It Go” where my character,

months.

Princess Elsa transforms on stage from one gown to another. The costume crew worked tirelessly

For “Frozen Jr.” we had an extra-long rehearsal

creating and remaking the stunning blue dress to

process; learning the songs, dances, and then

make sure it looked perfect on stage. When we

putting it all together on stage. It seems simple,

first did it in front of an audience, the audience

but we went through multiple roadblocks while

gasped and cheered louder than I have ever heard

creating “Frozen Jr.” this past winter. We missed

in the theater. We executed the trick flawlessly, and

multiple days of rehearsal because of severe weather,

the heartfelt reaction from the audience was an

sports conflicts, and other school events, but these

acknowledgment of our show’s magic.

challenges just made our show stronger. To me, this is what makes it all so special; leaning on my team of

After four months, our show came together, and

castmates and crew to make something magical.

people had the chance to experience a well-known story on our own FRA stage. The experience off the

The most memorable part of “Frozen Jr.” for me was

stage is just as incredible to me when I reflect on

the performances. Every moment before, during,

how many members of the FRA community came to

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49 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

support the musical. This is what keeps the FRA theater program alive and students like me inspired.

After 4 years, I am realizing how much I am going to miss the middle school musical. I remember being in fifth grade and performing in my first middle school musical. I was in awe of the eighth graders and their confidence. Now, I look back and see that I am the eighth grader that could help inspire younger students, including many in their very first musical ever. “Frozen Jr.” was an amazing experience, and I will always cherish my time as an actress in the middle school. Over the last couple of years, ending my middle school career with “Frozen Jr.” I have been taught how truly special it is to be a part of the FRA Arts community. 

Elle joined FRA in fifth grade. She has been in a total of four FRA Productions including Genie in "Aladdin", a Mersister in "The Little Mermaid", Miss Hannigan in "Annie", and Elsa in "Frozen". Elle is a multi-sport athlete participating in soccer, volleyball, basketball, track, softball, and lacrosse. She performs in many theater productions outside of FRA and plans to take her theater skills with her to college one day.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 50

Israel Fayne PERFORMING ARTS

CLASS OF 2022

S

Since fifth grade, I have had the opportunity to fully embrace what it means to be a student at Franklin Road Academy. Of the many ways I have been

involved, the Fine and Performing Arts program at FRA has helped me understand who I am and what it feels like to pursue my passion. Everyday, I see teachers on this campus lead with passion, and everywhere you look it's easy to find examples of passionate people teaching and investing in students so they become the best version of themselves. Since attending FRA, I have grown into a better leader, student, and friend in each community I am involved in.

This year, I served as president of the band­— something I would have never imagined doing four years ago. I had the honor of leading, organizing, and being a consistent light to our group. I know how to lead well because of the teachers I have had standing before me including Mr. Chandler who has had an incredible impact on my life. I know how to lead by example because I have seen how he strives to make sure everyone is not only learning but excited about what we are performing. I think of Mr. Allen who has been involved in multiple areas of my life, from athletics to sharing his love for Christ in each lesson in the classroom. I even recall Coach Flegel who has helped me push forward to achieve all the goals I have laid before myself for the future.

As I begin my collegiate experience, I feel more equipped to walk with passion and determination to become a man similar to the mentors I have experienced over the last eight years.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS

51 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

part of growing. Over the years, I have come to understand that I am flexible to be who I want to be both on this campus and the years to come.

FRA has helped prepare me to be the best I can be next year in college. I am prepared for the balance of completing assignments and understanding how to apply the material. Because of the Fine and Performing Arts program at FRA, I have learned to embrace everyone around me with inclusivity. Next year, I will walk onto a different campus with a full understanding of my identity in Christ and with my faith as my foundation. I will walk with confidence academically and spiritually, knowing how to be proud of my faith and how to authentically live into my beliefs. Beyond FRA’s walls, I will be able to be the best I can be because of the programs, like FRA Fine Arts, and the mentors who have poured into me.

I will be attending Tennessee State University in the fall as a computer science major but will not be able to fully separate myself from my passion for music.

Over the past four years, I have seen that you can balance many different interests and still excel. I plan to minor in sound design, thanks to exposure from our Interim trip, and am planning to join the marching band. I will miss each of my classmates and am so grateful for the ways we have each helped each other grow. I will miss Coach Tucker, Mr. Chandler, and my During my time in the band, I have made some of my favorite FRA memories. This school year, the band and choir took a trip to Universal Studios for Interim. We were able to attend a workshop to learn more about sound design. Being able to have the opportunity to learn more about the music industry is something I cherish, as I know many students do not always get these opportunities.

During this trip, I realized that having the chance to

teachers for the many ways they mentored me.

I will forever be grateful for my years on this campus and for the ways it helped me see the world in a new light. Because of my experiences at FRA, I have learned to see a friend in everyone, to be a friend to everyone, and to see the possibilities of growth in every situation. 

be involved in the band was something bigger than it

Israel has attended FRA since fifth grade. Beyond being a member

originally appeared. I have been a part of a tight-knit

of the band, Israel was also the band’s president. Israel was also

community that has served as a second family to me for

on the 2022 FRA Boys State Championship track team, where

each of my years at FRA. Mr. Chandler taught me that

he finished in third place in the triple jump and fifth place in the

learning can be fun and that practice is important, but

110m hurdles. In the fall, Israel will be attending Tennessee State

passion is critical. I learned that I am responsible for

University.

mastering my craft and that flexibility is an important

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 52

Natalie Richter PERFORMING ARTS | CLASS OF 2022

T

The opportunities and adaptability through Franklin Road Academy’s fine and performing arts program have helped me become fully passionate about who I am as

a creative-minded individual. I have been so blessed to be a part of the programs that make the arts program at FRA so unique. From theatre, to choir, to even playing the flute in the band, I’ve been given a unique perspective that helped encompass all areas that contribute to making FRA such an incredible training ground for artists like me.

Over the last four years of high school, so many incredible memories formulated who I have become both on and off the stage. When looking back, "Cats" was the first show that encouraged me to fully pursue my passion. The countless hours spent preparing for the show sparked something in me. It was the first time I stepped into a bigger role, and I had the support of my teachers and mentors all along the journey.

The community around FRA's fine and performing arts program is unlike anything I have experienced. I loved stepping into something so much bigger than myself and grow along so many talented and selfless individuals. Even through the pandemic, "Godspell" ended up being my favorite production because I learned the importance of leaning on others and staying positive through tough times. I felt

STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS

53 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

I am so grateful for the years I have had on this campus. From my years at FRA, I’ve discovered a deep passion for students in the Heart to Heart program. My whole lens for life changed through my involvement with Best Buddies, a program for students with Down syndrome. As I look to the future, I plan to major in theatre and education to merge my two passions for the performing arts and loving and supporting individuals with learning disabilities. My dream is to create a theatre program that welcomes and encourages individuals with learning disabilities to take the stage and star in multiple productions.

Since coming to FRA in sixth grade, I’ve watched theatre turn from being something I did for fun to something I pursue with passion. I’ve learned countless life lessons that I will take with me as I enter college this fall. I am prepared to be attentive to detail with my craft, I will know how to push myself to think outside the box, and beyond all else, I will know how to be a leader in the lives of those around me. I will know how to be a friend to anyone, just as I’ve experienced being a part of a huge family on this campus. I’m confident in who I am and who I have a sense of community and friendship that I’m not sure I could have found anywhere else.

become during my years at FRA and couldn’t be more grateful for all the people who loved me and helped shape me into the person I am today. 

My arts teachers have played a huge part in investing in who I’m becoming. This past spring break, the choir and the band shared a trip to theme parks in Orlando, and although waiting in line for rides sounds awful to some, it was one of my favorite FRA memories. While we waited in line, we bonded as a community and talked about life with the teachers and classmates who have poured so much into my life. Beyond my spring break trip, I’ve experienced amazing one-on-one

Natalie joined FRA in the sixth grade. She has been in eight productions including starring roles as Demeter in "Cats," Katherine in "Newsies," and Anna Maria in "Godspell." This year, she was awarded the Carole Pieratt Award for the Performing Arts. During her time at FRA, she was a member of the cross country team, Best Buddies, Worship Team, A Cappella, and vocal ensemble. This fall, she will attend Baylor University.

friendships, mentorship, and training from my teachers, including Mr. Bolen who taught me how to be the best actress I can be.

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THIRD GRADE

POETRY CAF É

Basketball WRITTEN BY Cruz

Oropeza

Basketball is very fun Saturday is game one I like it a whole lot And I think I’ll make a shot The game is about to begin I really think we will win I meet the other team As the crowd began to scream I dribble down the court And I really need support The ball jumps out of my hands And bounces into the stands The ball hits the floor with a bounce And it only feels like one ounce It’s finally the time I’m about to shine

The Moon WRITTEN BY Susana

Cascarano

Moon, moon shining bright, a big ball of light.

Sleeps all day, shines all night.

Moon, moon big ball of light.

Boom!

An asteroid hit the moon, a crater is formed.

Do not worry, it’s not doom.

Do not cry, do not cry.

An asteroid just hit the moon.

The moon shines bright each and every night.

I love the moon.

Moon, moon in the sky you are so very high.

The moon, the moon big and bold and so very cold.

So beautiful, so beautiful, the moon is so pretty, it’s not a pity.

I love the moon shining bright, so bright day and night.

55 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

I run down the line Everything will be fine It flies up in the sky I watch it with my eye SWISH! We won the game!

Merly WRITTEN BY

Seraphina Diaz

Merly, Merly, Sweet little mouse.

Cuddle, cuddle with all my might, Sing and play in the morning light.

Merly, Merly, Light pink like a baby flamingo, Big ears and long tail, Best friends with my stuffed animal whale.

Merly, Merly Cute and cuddly, Squeak, squeak, squeak, Little mouse scurrying and squeaking all through the house Always running, round and round waiting for the moon to come down..

Keane WRITTEN BY Kiptyn

Krones

Merly, Merly Little Mouse Waiting for me to come back to the house She knows I will come back, I love her and she knows that.

My brother is great He is indeed.

He’s just a baby But he’s growing like a weed.

His laugh, his smile, his joyful play He loves his rapping robot Beep! Bop! And follows it every day.

He is special, He is sweet He really loves to eat Stubborn he can be Just watch and see.

When he grows big and tall My biggest dream is To watch them throw the ball At the Titan’s game!

Even though it’s past his bedtime, He’s my best friend And I’ll love him to the end!

POETRY CAFE |

Students in the third grade participated in the annual Poetry Café event in February. Each student created an original work of art inspired by the mood of their poem.

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Commemorating our 50th Anniversary: AN ALL-ACADEMY ART EXPERIENCE WITH ED NASH BY

DR. CINDY THORNTON, Director of Fine and Performing Arts

Spring 2022 allowed for a unique art experience for our campus community. All three divisions paired with contemporary artist, Ed Nash, to create two beautiful pieces for the Scarlett Family Chapel. The art was created to commemorate our 50th Anniversary, and the vision was to have everyone across campus make their mark and be a part of these celebratory art pieces.

50TH ANNIVERSARY

57 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

Ed was absolutely wonderful in working with our kids.

One of the main goals from the onset of the project was to get every student and faculty member involved in the process. Ed came to campus to introduce the project and share his painting philosophy with our students. He also brought completed works that displayed his style, which features multiple layers of paint. The students were really excited to be a part of the layering process and a part of the art that would be displayed as a permanent fixture in the Scarlett Family Chapel.

From the very beginning, Ed did a great job connecting to the students in each division. He was able to wow, inform, and connect his pieces and his faith in his presentations. It was really inspiring to watch the kids react to his words and the art he brought to campus.

The week after the introductions, the two large canvases were set up in each division, allowing every student and faculty member the opportunity to participate in the creative process. By the time the pieces had traveled through all three divisions, the canvases were covered with fun joyful paint marks by each student and staff on campus. Ed then took the pieces back to his studio and completed the final layers.

The installation is absolutely beautiful, and the fact that every student has been a part of the process makes them remarkably special. We are incredibly grateful for Ed and for everything he did to make this such a wonderful experience for our community.  Ed Nash is a current FRA parent and well-known abstract artist.

His work can be found in countless collections, including the homes of Senators, musicians, actors, celebrities and luxury commercial and historical spaces such as The Senate Building, Washington DC, Tennessee State Museum, Hunter Museum of Art, Blackberry Farms, Nashville International Airport, Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Hilton Green Hills, Lyndhurst Collection, Suntrust Corporation Memphis, and Netflix. His work has been featured in Architectural Digest, The Huffington Post, Milieu Magazine, Nashville Lifestyles Magazine, Atlanta Home and Lifestyles Magazine, Native Magazine, East Nashvilian, Classic Home Magazine, Southern Living and Traditional Home Magazine.

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S P ORTS ACCOLAD E S COLLEGE SIGNINGS

THIS SPRING, SIX OF OUR STUDENT ATHLETES COMMITTED TO CONTINUING THEIR SPORT AT THE COLLEGIATE LEVEL. WE ARE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THAT SAM BUCK, PAYTON CULP, THATCHER FRANKFATHER, JOSIAH JACKSON, JEFFERY VERCHER, AND EMILY WILSON WILL BE ADVANCING THEIR ATHLETIC CAREERS.

SIGNINGS AT H L E T I C S

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SAM BUCK

PAYTON CULP

THATCHER FRANKFATHER

BASEBALL AT ROANE STATE

TRACK AT BELMONT UNIVERSITY

TRACK AT TEXAS A&M

"Sam's heart and his passion not

"Payton has been a cornerstone of the

"Thatcher is a once-in-a-generation talent

and towards his friends and family,

Payton is a true servant leader—kind,

when God made Thatcher, he broke the

only for baseball, but as a student,

is immeasurable. Sam will forever be one of my favorite players I've had the pleasure to coach, because he

makes everyone around him better."

- Coach Johnson

track program for the past two years.

caring and cerebral. I am so proud of the young man Payton is and am thrilled he

will be competing at the next level right here in Nashville."

- Coach Matthews

and human being. To put it in simpler terms, mold. He is the toughest, the most driven and caring athlete I have ever had the pleasure

to coach and I am so proud to see all he has accomplished."

- Coach Matthews

JOSIAH JACKSON

JEFFERY VERCHER

EMILY WILSON

FOOTBALL AT DAVIDSON COLLEGE

FOOTBALL AT VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY

GOLF AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS

"Josiah is one of the most humble

young men that I have coached. His

maturity and motivation is distributed into every phase of his life. Josiah will

continue to make an impact on people and programs he gets involved in, and I look forward to watching it unfold."

- Coach Whittemore

"Jeffery has the heart of a true competitor.

"Emily is one the greatest athletes in the

alive when he gets to strap on the pads. I

incredible resume of championships and

He has found his passion and truly comes

love watching the way he plays the game,

and I can’t wait to see his success at the next level and how his devotion translates into life beyond football."

- Coach Whittemore

history of our school­—not just for her

accolades, but because she is one of the greatest teammates we have ever had.

She has been a true blessing to me, our program, and our school."

- Coach Flegel

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2022 STATE CHAMPIONS

SPORTS ACCOLADES WINTER/SPRING RECAP

61 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

BOYS TEAM

TSSAA State & Region Champions

COACH AWARD

DAVID TUCKER TSSAA DII-A Track and Field Coach of the Year

TOP STATE FINISHES

BOYD BROWN, PAYTON CULP, GRIFFIN FRANKFATHER, BLAKE LANCE State Champions­— 4x400 JOE CROCKER Second Place­— Shotput and Discus ISRAEL FAYNE Third Place­— Triple Jump

JOSIAH JACKSON State Champion­— Shotput

GRIFFIN FRANKFATHER Third Place­— 300m Hurdles

THATCHER FRANKFATHER State Champion­— 400m State Champion­— Decathlon Second Place­— 200m

DRAKE LANKFORD Third Place­— Pole Vault

PAYTON CULP State Champion in Pole Vault Second Place­— 110m Hurdles Second Place ­— Decathlon JEREMIAH GREER State Champion­— 200m Second Place­— 100m

JUSTICE SPRINGER Third Place­— 110m Hurdles BOYD BROWN, JEFFERY VERCHER, GRIFFIN FRANKFATHER, JON WILSON Third Place­— 4x200 JEREMIAH GREER, GRIFFIN FRANKFATHER, JEFFERY VERCHER, JON WILSON Third Place­— 4x100 FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 62

S PO RTS ACCOLADE S FA L L R E C A P

NEMO HOLMES AT H L E T I C S

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RJ CASEY

MACIE MEDES

BASKETBALL BOYS INDIVIDUAL RJ CASEY TSSAA DII-A All-District

NEMO HOLMES TSSAA DII-A All-District

GIRLS INDIVIDUAL MACIE MEDES TSSAA DII-A All-District FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 64

HADLEY MAXWELL 65 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

SAM BUCK

BASEBALL INDIVIDUAL SAM BUCK TSSAA DII-A All-District

HADLEY MAXWELL TSSAA DII-A All-District

CARTER OLIFF TSSAA DII-A All-District

CARTER OLIFF FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 66

SOFTBALL INDIVIDUAL ALAYNA MCINTOSH TSSAA DII-A All-District

MAGGIE KAUFMAN (PICTURED) TSSAA DII-A All-District

WRESTLING INDIVIDUAL GRIFFIN FRANKFATHER TSSAA DII-A Region Runner-up State Championships (5th place)

SOCCER INDIVIDUAL BEAU KIRSCHNER (PICTURED) TSSAA DII-A All-District

BEN BRADSHAW TSSAA DII-A All-District

67 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

GIRLS TENNIS SHELBY FRANKLIN District III Individual Championship, Region Runnerup, and TSSAA DII-A Singles State Championships Qualifier

TEAM

TSSAA DII-A District & Region Runner-up Advanced to TSSAA State quarterfinals

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ALUMNI

CLASS NOTES SARA BETH GIDEON URBAN ’07 Sara Beth was named the new CEO/President of HospitalityTN. HospitalityTN, a statewide association that represents hospitality and tourism industries in Tennessee, welcomed her to take on the position on April 18, 2022.

CARRIE TILLIS ’90 Mark your calendar and join us for the annual Franklin Road Academy

GOLF CLASSIC Monday, September 12 The Governors Club

Carrie was selected to perform with her sister, Pam Tillis, Tricia Walker, and Ashley Cleveland for a special evening of song at the Grammy Museum Mississippi on April 12, 2022.

KAREN FENTRESS ’80 Karen was recognized as a “Hometown Hero” during Vanderbilt University’s basketball game. Vanderbilt selects a hero each game based on work they do in their community and how they serve as a role model for others.

ERIC DIGGS '18 To register or become a sponsor, scan above or visit:

FranklinRoadAcademy.com/Golf

Eric recently joined us for Spiritual Emphasis Week to speak about his identity in Christ. Eric recently graduated from Cornell Univeristy and will be continuing his academic and football career at Stetson University.

KENNEDY MANNING '15 Kennedy matched at Vanderbilt University Medical Center to complete her PGY1 Residency.

69 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

STEPHEN HOHNHOLT ’20 As a member of the Purdue University Sigbots, Stephen competed in and won the skills competition at the VEX Robotics World Championships, an annual robotics competition hosted for over 300 universities to showcase their talents.

ALEX BRITO ’13 Alex matched with the Harvard Neurology Program at Massachusetts General & Brigham and Women's Hospital on March 18, 2022. Alex graduated from Vanderbilt School of Medicine in May 2022.

WEDDINGS RACHEL FREEMAN ’09 married Austin Poynter on October 16, 2021.

AMANDA MCKINNEY ’09 married Travis Alvarado on March 5, 2022.

IN MEMORY BROGAN MATTHEW THOMS-WILSON ’19 passed away on May 10, 2022.

ROBERT ABERNATHY BUTLER, SR. (father to Robert Butler Jr. ’89 and Amy Butler LaFrenz ’93) passed away on June 16, 2022.

ROBERT FIDLER (father to R. Brink Fidler ’93) passed away on June 16, 2022.

For more information and to RSVP please visit:

www.FranklinRoadAcademy.com/ alumni/alumni-weekend

JANE HOLLAND MEREDITH MAIN (mother to John Christopher Main ’87 and Meredith Main Slonecker ’89) passed away on March 6, 2022.

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PICTURED / Top to bottom, left to right: Crofford Storey Crumbo, Callen Garrett Williams, Callaway Eberhart Baskin, Palmer Mae Herschmann, Josie Ann Foster, Aiden Matisse Jacob Levavasseur, Selah Lane King, Lily Myles Coleman, William Rowan Childress, Oliver Ryan Davis, and Leighton Hayes Quinn.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS TARA HEARD QUINN ’09 and Nick Quinn welcomed Leighton Hayes on September 18, 2021.

MEGAN WALLSTEDT HERSCHMANN ’12 and Drew Herschmann welcomed Palmer Mae on March 18, 2022.

AUSTIN BASKIN ’09 and Erin Baskin welcomed Callaway Eberhart on April 27, 2022.

MATTIE CROFFORD CRUMBO ’07 and Jed

Crumbo welcomed Crofford Storey on March 9, 2022.

71 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

ASHLEY KISH ’03 and Nathan Williams welcomed Callen Garrett on December 14, 2021.

BRIAN FOSTER ’08 and Caroline Foster welcomed Josie Ann on February 25, 2022.

SUKI TALLENT LEVAVASSEUR ’06 and

Aldric Levavasseur welcomed Aiden Matisse Jacob on November 27, 2021.

KATIE TYGARD DAVIS ’08 and Derrick Davis welcomed Oliver Ryan on December 12, 2021.

EMILY ANDERSON COLEMAN ’09 and Ty Coleman welcomed Lily Myles on January 5, 2022.

WILLIAM CHILDRESS ’05 and

Mara Childress welcomed William Rowan on February 9, 2022.

MARIAH CANADY KING ’12 and

Justin King welcomed Selah Lane on February 26, 2022.

CLAS S O F 2022 A L UM N I AWARD WIN N ERS

W

While each of this year’s award winners has contributed impressively to FRA as a stellar student, each has followed a very different path outside of the classroom. One is a multi-sport athlete whose hustle and determination inspired many on and off the fields, while the other is a stellar artist, speaker, and fundraiser who has led the National Honors Society leadership team to new heights. While their interests are different,

they share many of the same qualities. Each is a quiet leader who serves consistently and leads by example, eschewing the spotlight and working to promote others. Each is known by friends as loyal, steady, and dependable, and each has earned the utmost respect from our faculty and student body. Their selfless leadership has been a gift to the school.

THATCHER FRANKFATHER ’22 Thatcher has attended FRA since kindergarten. As a senior, he was one of nine students selected to participate in the Exceptional Learners Program which pairs typically developing students with students in the Heart to Heart program. Thatcher was named TWSA All-State in wrestling and track and field. He also served as co-captain for the track team, which he helped lead to a State Championship this spring. He will be running track at Texas A&M University in the fall.

LILY PARIS ’22 Lily started attending FRA as a freshman in 2018 and was awarded Freshman Outstanding Student of the Year. She is a cancer survivor and has shared her story as the emcee for the Make-A-Wish gala and as a guest speaker at fundraising events like the Chi O Fashion Show at Vanderbilt. She actively participated in the upper school service club, served as the recruitment and promotions chair for National Honor Society, and worked with Dance Marathon to raise money for Monroe Carell Children’s Hospital. Winner of the 2019-20 Theater Tech Award, she has been an integral part of drama productions since her freshman year. Lily will be attending Rhodes College in the fall.

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WHY WE GIVE THE AXFORD FAMILY

Ellie, Tommy, Ally '20, Mary Ellen '28, Annie, '30, and Kathryn '33

DONOR STORY

73 | 4700 Spring/Summer 2022

DONOR STOR Y

H

How in the world do we attempt to

Chapel. These spaces have impacted our kids and

explain all that Franklin Road Academy

family firsthand. Ally was able to sing worship music

means to our family in a few sentences?

during chapel and even had Kathryn, our youngest,

We're about to begin our sixth year

join her to pray during one of her devotion times

as a part of FRA, and yet it feels like we've been here

at convocation. We've seen Mary Ellen participate

forever. FRA is definitely one of our favorite places, and

in choral concerts in the chapel, and most recently

we are so proud to be a part of this family. One quality

have watched Annie walk across the stage during

that helps FRA stand out is the sense of community

fourth grade promotion. It seems that every person

on this campus. We feel it is such an advantage to

that enters the Weicker Center for the first time

have all ages and grades on one campus together and

is immediately impressed. While the facilities are

interacting throughout the school year.

gorgeous and top-notch, we value even more the space it creates for community. Whether it is enjoying

Our oldest, Ally ’20, always loved helping lead sessions

a family breakfast on Wednesday mornings, fathers

at summer cheer camp or greeting in car line at the

gathering with their kids for All-Pro Dads, or meeting

lower school on game days. Similarly, our younger girls

another parent for coffee, the space is constantly used

always enjoy interacting with students both older and

to enhance and strengthen our community.

younger during the many opportunities FRA provides.

Our girls are each unique and have had their own

We give to FRA because FRA has given and will

individual experiences and interests at FRA, yet the

continue to give so much to our family. We've been

one thing they have all had in common is a deep sense

blessed during our time at FRA by the generous

of community and purpose here. We are so thankful

giving of others and feel compelled to do our part

to have faculty and staff, their friends, and even other

(however big or small) to continue to enhance the

parents who partner with us in encouraging them and

FRA experience for our kids and other families who

helping build their sense of self-worth and confidence in

will follow. We want to be part of the legacy that FRA

who God created them to be.

is creating both now and for future generations. We have no doubt our children will look back on their

Our community is greatly enhanced by the spaces and

experience here with fondness and gratitude and will

environment our children experience daily. Just in our

always be proud to call FRA home! 

short time at FRA, we've seen two transformational projects take place—the construction of the Weicker

For more information on how you can support the mission of

Center and the restoration of the Scarlett Family

FRA, please visit www.FranklinRoadAcademy.com/Support

"We have no doubt our children will look back on their experience here with fondness and gratitude and will always be proud to call FRA home!"

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 74

FRANKLIN ROAD ACADEMY

4700 Franklin Pike Nashville, TN 37220

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 1093 Nashville, TN

NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION? Please email Meredith Fifer at FiferM@franklinroadacademy.com

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS FRIDAY, AUGUST 19

All-Community Tailgate & Football Game | Kennon Track and Field MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

Golf Classic | Governors Club FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Alumni Homecoming Tailgate & Football Game SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

All-Alumni Reunion Party | L&L Market THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12

Upper School Musical | FRA Theater FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18

Lower and Middle School Grandparents Day THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15

All-Alumni Christmas Party & Art Show | The Avenue SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

Young Alumni Christmas Party | Fat Bottom Brewery

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL @FRAPANTHERS

www.FranklinRoadAcademy.com