4700 Fall/Winter 2021

4700

Fall/Winter 2021

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 Dear FRA Community, As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of Franklin Road Academy, I find myself both reflecting on FRA’s history and eagerly considering possibilities for the future.

When I arrived in Nashville eight years ago, people would often approach me and want to share their FRA experience.

Some shared great moments of pride, while sometimes others recounted times of frustration. As a newcomer to FRA, I lacked context to fully understand many of these stories.

I was grateful for their perspective and looked forward to seeing what God had in store for our school community over the next 10 years. I was truly excited for what was to come, and I remain that way today. It is exciting to dream about God’s unfolding story on our campus over the next 50 years!

FRA, at its greatest, is driven by a strong mission to provide a challenging educational experience in an inclusive Christian community with an unwavering commitment to develop leaders of integrity and purpose. While that is the ideal we are collectively working toward, our school is also the sum of its parts. We are thousands of experiences and stories from our alumni, students, parents, families, and faculty who have passed through our hallways and helped shape our community. We celebrate these people and moments – like our recent Alumni Athletics Hall of Fame and Arts Circle of Honor inductees, our former heads of school and their families, and our beloved teachers like Ed Zaborowski and Brenda Jewell who will both retire this spring after over 65 years of combined service to our community! We recently held our annual Spiritual Emphasis Week, which started in the early days of our school’s history and continues to have a significant impact on the lives of our students. Many of us have remarkable moments at FRA that we cherish. My favorite memory was watching “Money” Robert Lewis ’16 hit a 3-pointer during the waning moments of our final home basketball game in 2016. Robert was carried off the court by his classmates, and the video went viral for much of the country to see. The joy that Robert and our school community experienced in that moment was unforgettable. Collectively, these people, traditions, and moments have shaped our school community into the place we hold so dear.

As our 50th Anniversary celebration continues, I recognize the importance of reflecting on our path. We love our community. We also acknowledge that it is difficult to talk about our past without recognizing that our school, along with many others across the country, was founded during a

time of segregation and while this does not define our story, it is a part of our history. As head of school, I am grateful for this community, and yet I am sorry our story includes times when FRA has not lived up to our inclusive Christian mission. This is not intended to pass judgment, nor is it to say that we are now a perfect institution. We are not. However, we are committed to learning and growing so we strengthen our future. Great schools are always in the process of becoming. We are not the school we once were, and I am confident 50 years from now, we will continue to be a better place because God’s story on our campus will grow in remarkable ways.

The extraordinary story of our faith is one of reconciliation and restoring relationships, which includes acknowledging shortcomings and continuing to do better, both in small ways and through larger changes. Over the last few decades, our community has grown to be a more inclusive Christian community, and we are dedicated to ensuring every student and family feels known, valued, and loved. We, as a community, lean into the promises of Ephesians 2: 8-10. “For it is by grace that we were saved, through faith and not by works, for we are God’s handiwork created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” We know there is still much work to be done, and we will continue to learn and grow so we can create a better future.

As head of school, my role is one of stewardship. We have a community that I and the members of our leadership team are called to care for and cultivate until we pass it to a new set of capable hands. Our hope is when we are done, just as in the parable of the talents, we will hear, “Well done good and faithful servant.” Just as those who came before us, we look to pass on a stronger community, so that future generations can benefit as we have today. My hope is we continue to become a more accurate reflection of God’s kingdom here on earth.

I hope you enjoy reading this issue of the 4700 Magazine, which reflects on our history, celebrates the present, and looks ahead with eager anticipation to our future. I remain blessed to be a part of this remarkable community and grateful for your ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Sean R. Casey

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS

9

19

29

55

63

73

50TH ANNIVERSARY Honoring our Leadership Celebrating Faculty with 20+ Years of Service to FRA Historical Timeline

SERVICE LIFE Service Saturday Students Who Give: Emerson Hood Female Eagle Scouts

ALUMNI AWARDS Distinguished Alumni Arts Circle of Honor Athletics Hall of Fame

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS Visual Art Gallery Upper School Musical: Newsies Faculty Spotlights

FEATURE STORY New Innovation Labs Spark Creativity and Design Thinking Alumni Spotlight: David Chandler '17

ATHLETICS College Signings Awards and Accolades Homecoming Week Gallery

COPYRIGHTED 2021 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.

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35

41

47

83

87

93

THE TURNER FELLOWSHIP Bringing the Mission of FRA to Life

LEGACY FAMILIES Spotlight: Caroline Dinker '22 Welcoming our New Legacy Students

SIGNATURE PROGRAMS Heart to Heart Spotlight: Thatcher Frankfather '22

ALUMNI UPDATES Class Notes Family Additions

STUDENT LIFE Spiritual Emphasis Week Wellness Feature: Lessons of Winter

WHY WE GIVE The Scarlett Family

EDITORS Angela Claxton and Brian Shaffrey. ART DIRECTOR Angela Claxton. PHOTO CREDITS Brian Shaffrey and Evan Webb. COPY EDITORS Elizabeth Moore. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sean Casey, Alana Hilkin, Thatcher Frankfather '22, Brandon Albright, Allison Hammat, Josh Flegel, Emerson Hood '29, Shannon Spencer, Caroline Dinker '22, and Jenny and Andrew Scarlett '97. COVER ART Anderson Design Group of Nashville, Tennessee created this artwork to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Franklin Road Academy.

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FRANKLIN ROAD ACADEMY

TRUSTEES

JARED ALLEN

JEB BEASLEY

ROGER BROWN

MATTHEW DENMARK

KARLA CALDERON

STEVE HALAS

50TH ANNIVERSARY

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VICTOR BERRIOS

RANDY CHASE

KIMBERLY JACKSON

JOHN S. LARKIN II

ROSEMARY PLORIN

STEVE MAGGART

JAIMIE ROBINSON

CHRISTY SMITH

R. DALE MITCHELL

ANDREW SCARLETT '97

CLIF TANT '94, Chair

GABRIELLE WESLEY

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FRANKLIN ROAD ACADEMY

L E A DE R S H I P T E AM

BRANDON ALBRIGHT Director of Spiritual Life

STEVE COMPTON Director of Technology

SEAN CASEY Head of School

GEORGIE GOLDTHORPE Health Services Administrator

50TH ANNIVERSARY

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ANGELA CLAXTON

Director of Marketing and Communications

RYAN HARRIS

Assistant Head for External Affairs

CHANNING MCCULLOUGH Head of Middle School

JAY SALATO ’03 Head of Upper School

JOHN MURRAY

Dean of Academic Affairs

PRENTICE STABLER

LAURA TURNER

Associate Head of School

Assistant Head for Finance and Operations

RICK WEST

KRIS PALMERTON Director of Athletics

BRODRICK THOMAS

Director of Diversity, Community, and Inclusion

Head of Lower School

COURTNEY WILLIAMSON Director of Admission

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CELEBRATING OUR

5 0 A N NI VERSA RY th

This special feature section is dedicated to the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Franklin Road Academy.

F E AT U R E

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Honoring our Leadership BY

T

SEAN CASEY, Head of School

To all of my predecessors and their families, please know how grateful I

am for you and the work of your families on the behalf of the entire FRA community both then and now.

When I interviewed to be head of school at Franklin Road Academy, people often

asked, “Why do you want to be head of school, and why FRA?” My why to the first question was relatively simple, yet took decades to develop in me. Why a head of

school? Because I wanted to make a difference. As a teacher and coach for almost two decades, I could make a difference in the lives of my 70 or 80 students and players. I could have an impact on them each year. But, what if I could have a greater impact?

If I could support and encourage 140+ teachers to have that same sense of urgency

to make a difference in the lives of kids, we collectively could make a difference in the lives of thousands of students, and I could be a small part of it. That is my why for this job, and I suspect it is for many who held this position before me.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 10

But why FRA? For me, it was and continues to be the unique mission of FRA. Not only could we have an

impact on our students and their academic, social, and emotional development, but we could do this with an eternal perspective.

The role of head of school at FRA is not a role of ownership but a role of stewardship.

Something is handed to us, and we are charged with caring for it and growing it.

What is your answer to the above question? One

possible answer is: “I knew there was a lion in the

marble because before I saw the lion in the marble, I saw him in my own heart. The secret is that it was the lion in my heart that recognized the lion in the marble.”

“The art of sculpture is, first of all, the art of seeing.

In one block of marble, Michelangelo saw a loving mother holding her dead son on her lap, while in

another, he saw a self-confident David ready to hurl his stone at the approaching Goliath, and in a third,

he saw an irate Moses at the point of rising in anger from his seat. Visual art is indeed the art of seeing, and the practice of disciplines is a way to make

visible what has been seen. The skillful artist is a

liberator who frees from bondage the figures hidden for billions of years inside the marble. The artist reveals the true identity of the figures!”

I would surmise that while the skill set is somewhat

We are called to account for what we have done with

different, the role of head of school is first of all

Talents. In this role, you are given a community to care

that they cannot yet see in themselves; seeing

get a, “well done, good and faithful servant.” The dif-

students they may have never imagined; seeing what

is not done on this campus. It continues to grow and

people working together; the power of FRAmily, and

It reminds me of the excerpt from Henri Nouwen’s

possible.

what God has given us, much like the Parable of the

the art of seeing as well. Seeing what is in children

for and grow; and when you are done, you hope you

in teachers the heights they can reach with their

ference is, when you are done in this role, God’s story

might become of a community and the power of

expand usually greater than any of us can imagine.

seeing accomplished what others did not think was

Clowning in Rome, about the lion in the marble.

Much like Nehemiah, heads of school have a unique

“There was once a sculptor who worked hard with

opportunity to be stewards and facilitators of God’s

child who was watching him saw nothing more than

chapter of His story to fruition.

right. He had no idea what was happening. But when

To our former heads of school and their families,

saw, to his surprise, a large, powerful lion sitting in

a time to sculpt the marble. Thank you for the lion

excitement, the boy ran to the sculptor and said, “Sir,

exciting to imagine what God has in store for our

marble?”

just 50 years!

hammer and chisel on a large block of marble. A little large and small pieces of stone falling away left and

story working within a community to bring the next

the boy returned to the studio a few weeks later, he

thank you for picking up the hammer and chisel for

the place where the marble had stood. With great

you have stewarded and freed from this marble. It’s

tell me, how did you know there was a lion in the

community if He was able to accomplish this much in

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Bill Bradshaw was Franklin Road

Academy’s first head of school. During his tenure, the first two phases of the lower school, including

gymnasium, cafeteria, a library, and the upper school building was built. The first athletic fields on the Hill were also laid out. In addition to his varied roles as

head of school, Bradshaw was often seen hard at work, painting, cutting grass, salting the drive, pitching in to do whatever was needed in the early days of the

school. The same could be said of his wife, Virginia. “Bill was like the Pied Piper. Children loved him. One of his strengths was helping them to be the best they could be,” said first chairman of the board Charlie Howell.

Bradshaw served as head of school for 10 years and

is remembered as the founder of many dearly loved

FRA traditions that continue to this day including the Spaghetti Supper and Spiritual Emphasis Week.

Dr. William L. Campbell began his eleven-year tenure arriving at FRA from

Vanderbilt University follow Bill Bradshaw. Already

an FRA parent, Bill Campbell was no stranger to the community. During his time as head of school, FRA

became independent under its own charter, completed a new lower school Danner Hall, renovated the athletic

fields, and purchased and renovated the Peach Orchard Hill House for administrative offices. He created a new

academic structure of lower, middle, and upper schools

and set about restructuring Franklin Road Academy into

a distinctively college preparatory academy. In reflecting on his father’s legacy at FRA, alumnus Chip Campbell said, “First and foremost, FRA placed its Christian

mission at the center of everything it did. Next my father hired and retained excellent teachers and coaches who set high standards…then he trusted those talented people to do their jobs well.”

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Bobby Welch came to Franklin Road Academy in 1992. With an extensive independent school background, Welch’s strengths were in

institutional advancement; long-range planning,

capitol campaigns and development. Building upon Franklin Road Academy’s strategic plan, the board

asked Mr. Welch to help craft a vision for the future

of the school. A capital campaign was laid out, a $1 million dollar commitment toward the endowment

was secured, and a particular emphasis was placed

on advancing the standards of technology at Franklin Road Academy. Mr. Welch served as head of school through 1994.

Edwin Hale Harris came out of retirement when he agreed to become head

of school for the 1994-95 academic year; he had

already served several administrative and academic positions at FRA from 1987 until his retirement in

1993 which followed a long and illustrious career

in Metro Nashville public schools. Harris previously served as head of the upper school where his

devotion to the students earned him the status of

“a legend.” A major milestone of his brief tenure as head of school was the dedication of the George Volkert Athletic Complex. When the new middle

school building was completed, it was named Harris Hall in “Honor of Hale Harris, educator, mentor, and friend. The plaque in Harris Hall reads: "Dedicated

to the lifelong development of Earth’s most precious resource: human talent.”

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Dr. Robert Dowda came to

Franklin Road Academy in 1995 from Tuscaloosa Academy in Alabama. An ordained elder in the

United Methodist Church, he earned degrees in

divinity, theology, and philosophy. Dr. Dowda had intended to teach at the collegiate level but after several years in independent schools became

convinced of the value of education during the

formative years. During Dr. Dowda’s time at FRA,

the school saw the celebration of the school’s silver anniversary during which was launched a capital

campaign, Building Tomorrow’s Leaders. The major

goals of the campaign were to build a free-standing middle school with a fine arts center, renovate and upgrade existing facilities in the lower and upper school, and improve technology. Ground was

broken for the new middle school complex during

Dr. Dowda’s tenure, and he completed his service to FRA in 1999.

John Younger was much like Hale Harris in that he spent a career in the Metro Nashville public schools before coming to

Franklin Road Academy. Mr. Younger began as a

mathematics teacher and coach before becoming

principal at Bellevue High. He moved to the Central Office where he oversaw math curriculum before

becoming Metro’s chief of finances. In 1995, Hale Harris encouraged Mr. Younger to come to FRA

as the director of finance and business. With the

groundbreaking of the new middle school building, Mr. Younger took on the added role as project

manager for the complex. With the 1999 transition to the role of head of school, he succeeded Dr.

Dowda overseeing the completion of the middle school and helping to shape a new program and

curriculum for the middle school as they transitioned into their new building. Mr. Younger retired from this role at the end of the 2001 school year.

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Dr. Margaret “Sissy” Wade’s roots at Franklin Road Academy run deep. Long before her tenure as head of school, she had a hand in the

development of various stages of the lower, middle, and upper schools as well as a brief stint as interim

head in 1994. Dr. Wade came to Franklin Road Academy in 1981 as U.S. History teacher and coached three

sports. The next year, she took on the role of Dean of

Students and College Counselor. This was followed by two years as head of the middle school and six years

overseeing the lower school. In 1994, she became head of Oak Hill School before returning to FRA as head of school in 2001. Dr. Wade was the first woman to lead a co-educational independent school in Nashville

with grades nine through twelve. During Dr. Wade’s

tenure as head of school, she shepherded the academy through an era that saw advancements in technology,

academic development, land acquisition, and building construction. This included the 2004 acquisition of the eleven acre First Christian property and paved

the way for the future expansion of campus including the construction of the math and science building,

Crockett Library, the Turner Quad as well as significant development of the athletic facilities. Dr. Wade retired in 2014 after thirteen years as head of school and

more than twenty-five years of service to Franklin Road Academy. 

Special Thanks Franklin Road Academy would like to thank our artists,

Sheldon "Sonny" Cunningham, father of Ashley Pyles ‘92, who completed the portrait of Mr. Bradshaw many years ago, and Doug Finke ’90 who completed the remaining six portraits over the course of the past year. We are

incredibly grateful to both Mr. Cunningham and Mr. Finke for sharing their artistic talents with our community to capture an important part of our history.

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Recognizing Extraordinary Dedication and Service to Franklin Road Academy THANK YOU TO THESE INDIVIDUALS FOR 20+ YEARS OF SERVICE

DAVID TUCKER 41 YEARS

ED ZABOROWSKI 41 YEARS

KRIS CLIMER 26 YEARS

KELLY HUDDLESTON 23 YEARS

BOB CHANDLER 25 YEARS

KATHY MALONE 23 YEARS

CHRIS HART 21 YEARS

FRANCES CRENSHAW BUBBA AUBERSON 37 YEARS 30 YEARS

BRENDA JEWELL 24 YEARS

STEVE COMPTON 22 YEARS

BILL ZEPEDA 21 YEARS

BECKY SPECK 24 YEARS

ALLISON KAUFMAN 22 YEARS

BETH LOUDERMILK 20 YEARS

PAIGE BARNES 28 YEARS

TIFF CANADY 23 YEARS

KEN MCDONALD 22 YEARS

ALLISON RHODES 20 YEARS

PEGGY ROSS 20 YEARS

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 16

HISTORICAL

1971

T I MELI NE

1983

The School celebrated the first group of students to become 12-Year Club members­—attending FRA for 12 consecutive years from first grade through graduation.

Franklin Road Academy was established through the vision and dedication of Mr. Bill Bradshaw and the First Christian Church.

The 1971-72 school year opened with kindergarten through sixth grade.

1980 Franklin Road Academy added Spiritual Emphasis Week to the academic calendar to focus on the gospel of Jesus Christ.

1972 The School hosted the first Spaghetti Supper for families to enjoy food and fellowship.

1979 Franklin Road Academy celebrated its first graduating class.

Olliòcrl

1977

The upper school students showcased their talents in first FRA musical, Oliver.

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1982 Franklin Road Academy acquired the Peach Orchard Hill House.

1984

The baseball team won FRA’s first State Championship title.

50TH ANNIVERSARY

2003

The Turner Fellowship program is launched for FRA seniors through the generosity of the Turner Family Foundation.

2018

1991

Renovations to the Scarlett Family Chapel were completed.

The football team won the State Championship title.

1994 George A. Volkert Athletic Complex was dedicated.

2007 Franklin Road Academy introduces the Heart to Heart program for students with Down Syndrome.

1989 The Franklin Road Academy Alumni Association is formed.

1999

Alpha and Omega houses are introduced to the upper school students as a way to build camaraderie.

2019

The Weicker Center for Student Life opens and includes a new dining hall, classrooms, offices, spirit store, and common areas.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 18

Distinguished Alumni Award The Distinguished Alumni Award was created in 2005 to show appreciation to those individuals who have made significant contributions to FRA. Those chosen to receive this award have influenced our community through their accomplishments, dedication, and service while at FRA and following graduation.

PAUL ALLEN '90 is the president of Wealth Strategies

named a member of the Raymond James Financial

decades of industry experience. Paul founded Wealth

to those financial advisors who have demonstrated an

Partners and a financial executive with more than three Strategies Partners in 2014 to provide comprehensive, white glove financial planning services to institutions, Endowments, business owners and executives.

Services Chairman’s Council, a distinction given only

unparalleled commitment to personal service and lead the largest revenue-producing branches, in 2020 and

2021. He has achieved the Certified Financial Planner™ certification, which is earned after completing a

He earned his bachelor’s degree in business

administration from the University of Tennessee and

subsequently earned his master’s degree in personal

rigorous CFP® exam and meeting ongoing renewal requirements.

financial planning from the College for Financial

Paul is a Nashville native and proud Franklin Road

global financial firms, including Prudential Securities and

longtime FRA donor. He’s also the former president

Planning. He went on to hold executive positions at

Aintree Capital, LLC, where he rose to the role of vice president.

Academy alumnus, parent of a former FRA student, and of FRA’s alumni board. He currently splits his time

between the practice’s offices in Nashville and Sarasota.

Paul was named a Best-in-State Wealth Advisor by Forbes magazine in 2018 and 2021. He was also

ALUMNI AWARDS

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Arts Circle of Honor Award The Arts Circle of Honor was created in 2021 to show appreciation to those individuals who have made significant contributions to FRA arts program. Those chosen for induction into the Franklin Road Academy Arts Circle of Honor have influenced our community through their talent, dedication, and service to our arts program while at FRA and made an ongoing impact on society through the arts, academics and/or service following graduation.

SCOTT INNIS ‘89 was a

ANN MARIE GIDEON-

Academy’s 12-Year Club, and

attended FRA from

member of Franklin Road

KNEZEVICH '05

his involvement in the arts

pre-kindergarten through

was ever-present in his FRA experience. As a student

trombonist, Scott attended 17 Honor Bands including two-time principal with the All Mid-State & All State

Bands and First Chair in the All State Jazz Band. He was awarded “Best Soloist” at the All State Marching Finals.

His senior year, he was chosen to represent Tennessee as a member of the McDonald’s All-American Band.

He attended the University of Miami on a full music and academic scholarship and later received his MBA from the University of Central Florida. While at Miami, he

was selected to the Disneyland All American College

Band launching an entertainment career with The Walt

Disney Company. After 27 years at the “Mouse House,” Scott has experience as a performer, project manager, leader of leaders, and show producer including

parades, stage shows, road shows, dedications, special events, and corporate events. He is also director of

administration for Mad Cow Theatre: a professional community theatre company in Orlando, Florida.

grade 12 and began her acting career early as

Chicken Little in the first grade play. In upper school, she enjoyed several leading roles in the plays and musicals and was an active member of the vocal

ensemble. The teachers who influenced her time at FRA the most and nurtured her love of music and theatre were Carole Pieratt, Linda Ballew, David

Compton and Brenda Jewell; she is forever grateful to them for their love and encouragement.

Ann Marie continued her pursuit of the theatre

and acting at The University of Memphis where she received her BFA. Over the course of 17 years, she has been in over 40 theatrical productions, two

national tours, three television shows, two national commercials, and one feature film. She is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association and SAG-

AFTRA. She is also an award-winning audiobook narrator and has narrated over 200 audiobooks

including New York Times and Audible bestsellers.

Nominations for the 2022 Alumni Awards are now open. For more information, visit www.franklinroadacademy.com/alumni FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 20

HALL OF FAME The Franklin Road Academy Athletics Hall of Fame was created in 2021 ENTRANCE to show appreciation to those individuals or teams who have made significant contributions to FRA athletics.

Those chosen for induction into the FRA Athletics Hall of Fame have influenced our community through their ability, dedication, and service to our athletic program while at FRA and following graduation.

This year, we honored a remarkable group of athletes who embody the spirit of FRA. The inductees for 2021 were John Ambrose III ’83, Daniel Crockett ’86, Laura Matthews ’04, the 2011 State Champion girls basketball team, the 2001 State Champion cross country team, and the 1991 State Champion football team. Each of these teams and individuals made an indelible impact on our school community by demonstrating the leadership, dedication, and grit required to achieve outstanding success.

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H A L L O F FA M E

Laura Matthews ’04 LAURA MATTHEWS embodied the characteristics of the ideal

student athlete at Franklin Road Academy. As an accomplished threesport athlete, she helped lead her teams to the State Championships

in soccer, basketball, and softball. Laura was an inspiring team leader and an excellent teammate.

In soccer, Laura was named to the TSSAA All-District team and the

TSSAA All-Region team all four years. During the 2001 season, FRA

won the Girls Soccer State Championship and returned to the State Championship again her senior year. After her senior season, Laura

was named by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America to the Adidas Scholar All-America team. In softball, she received

numerous awards including Tennessee Softball Writers Association (TSWA) All-State, Middle Tennessee Softball Coaches Association (MTSCA) All-Midstate, All-Academic Team, All-Star Team, TSSAA

All-Midstate Third Team, TSSAA District Defensive MCP, and TSSAA All-District. The girls softball team placed second in districts, won sectionals, and finished third in the State Championships.

Off the field, Laura participated in Student Council, National Honors Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Mu Alpha Theta, and

Mazatlán Monday. Laura was awarded the Founder’s Award in

2004. Her senior year, Laura was chosen Best All Around, honored as Homecoming queen, and selected by her peers to give the invocation at graduation.

After graduation, she continued her softball career at the University

of Dayton where she was selected team captain and MVP her junior

and senior years, named to the Atlantic 10 Academic All-Conference, and set numerous University of Dayton team defensive records.

Laura seamlessly transitioned from accomplished player to Division III coach, serving as assistant softball coach at Lake Forest College then head softball coach at Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio.

In 2017, Laura transitioned to Division I as head softball coach at

Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. Laura returned to Nashville

in July 2020 when she accepted the position of head softball coach at Belmont University.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 22

2011 State Champion Girls Basketball Team THE 2011 GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM had a

remarkable record of 27-3. Following a State runnerup finish in 2010, the 2011 team won the Region

Championship and capped the season by winning the Division II-A State Championship, a first for a Franklin Road Academy basketball team. After defeating

Harding Academy 51-33 in the state semifinals, the

Panthers took down Webb School of Knoxville, 55-52 in a game that went down to the final shot. Seniors

Erin Ford and Abby Wharton, as well as junior Mariah

Canady and sophomore Derica Wyatt, were all selected as members of the All-State Tournament Team.

Derica was chosen as MVP of the State Tournament and named to the TSWA All-State Basketball Team for all of

“What made this team different was the fact that most of them had played together since the seventh grade. They were dedicated to everything that it takes to make great teams; camps, individual work, and committing to each for the betterment of the team.”

Division II, A and AA. She was awarded Ms. Basketball

in 2010, 2012 and 2013 and named runner-up in 2011.

Derica was also named to the All-State and All-Region

teams all four years of her career and hit the 1,000-point scoring mark as a sophomore.

Erin Ford received the TSSAA A.F. Bridges Scholarship Award for sportsmanship and the Nashville Civitan

Hancock-Nipper Sportsmanship Award. Head Coach Chris Hart was awarded the Nashville Civitan High

School Coach of the Year. While a handful of girls were recognized with awards, the team depended on the

leadership of seniors Erin Ford and Abby Wharton as

well as Katie Coben and Taylor White in their quest for their first ever State Championship.

The 2011 team members were Katie Coben Aelvoet,

Erin Ford, Alyssa Gallas, Sperry Gander, Sydney Jordan

Hall, Taylor Hilborn Black, Mariah Canady King, Christine

- CHRIS HART HEAD COACH

Matthews, Callie Tompkins, Abby Wharton Pickney, Taylor White, Allie Woodlee, Derica Wyatt Madole, Megan Wisniewski Mingus, Maggie Weeks Crews,

Megan Wallstedt Herschmann, Cille Taylor, Head Coach Chris Hart, and Assistant Coach Glenn Tackett.

23 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

John Ambrose III ’83 JOHN AMBROSE attended Franklin Road

Academy for twelve years and was part of the first, first grade class. John was a standout three-sport

athlete competing in football, wrestling, and track. He served as captain of both the football and wrestling teams. John was a member of the football team all four years where he played offensive guard and

was awarded numerous accolades during his time, including being named All-Class A-AA Offense

Second Team and earning the Lineman of the Year Award each year.

John was also a valuable member of the wrestling team, lettering five years. His teammates elected

him captain his senior year and admired him for his courage and consistency on and off the mat. John

was an inspiration to his teammates. As a member

of the track team, John lettered three years and was a member of a record-setting relay team his senior year. John was known on campus for his superb

sportsmanship and high-caliber competitiveness.

After graduating from FRA, John earned his

bachelor’s degree in business management from

the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He worked

for Ambrose Printing Company for 33 years and was

named CEO in 1997. John currently builds homes for a living.

The Ambrose family has played an important part of the history of Franklin Road Academy. John

Ambrose II was chairman of the board of directors,

and the 1983 yearbook was dedicated to him for his

contributions to furthering the mission of FRA. The art studio is named after the Ambrose family legacy.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 24

2001 State Champion Cross Country Team THE 2001 CROSS COUNTRY TEAM won both the

Region and State Championships. This dominant squad of runners was part of the Franklin Road Academy

Cross Country dynasty that would go on to win four consecutive State Championships.

Participating varsity team members during the

championship race included Austin Weaver (1st),

Chris Estopinal (5th), Nelson Brunsting (7th), Joel Kline (12th), Owen Keenan (13th), Steven Wells (16th), and Chris Michael (17th). Under coaches Jamie Cropper

and Kevin Floyd the 2001 season continued the reign of Franklin Road Academy’s cross country team with

State Championships in 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003, which remains a state record. The team also won

regions those four years, and Austin Weaver was the A-AA individual State Champion in 1999, 2000, and

2001 with an average mile time of 5:06:60, and a 2001 individual State Championship with a winning time of 15:19:79.

Coach Kevin Floyd reflected on the team, “I can

honestly say in 20 years of coaching, I have never

witnessed a more complete performance by seven

individuals coming together with one heartbeat as I did that November day. I am proud to have been a

very small part of this incredible group of guys and will cherish those memories for the rest of my life.”

The 2001 team members were Jim Boyd, Gabe

Duggan, Joel Kline, Nelson Brunsting, Chris Estopinal, Reuben Stahl, Matthew Cowan, David McLemore, Austin Weaver, Michael Heim, Owen Keenan, Jay

Salato, Chris Michael, Stephen Wells, Coach Kevin Floyd and Coach Jamie Cropper.

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Dan Crockett ’86

Dan Crockett, #88

DAN CROCKETT has a long history of making a

as an outfielder. His senior year, the team made it to

transformative impact at Franklin Road Academy.

the Class A State semifinals.

member of the football team, baseball team, Civitan

After graduation, Dan attended Lambuth University

senior class.

administration and was named to the All-America

During his senior year football season, he had seven

Franklin American Mortgage in 1994, and during

five touchdowns, and earned All-District honors for

brokerage operation into one of the top-15 mortgage

an undefeated record in the district.

Entrepreneur of the Year by the Nashville Business

Franklin Road Academy assistant football coach, Ed

was inducted to the Nashville Entrepreneur Center

we asked of him on the football field. He was so

Impact Awards Hall of Fame in 2015.

He possessed such a great, positive attitude, and was

Dan continues to play an important role in the FRA

team. I really enjoyed coaching him.”

Road Academy has been instrumental in expanding

As a member of the baseball team, Dan received

student experience.

During his time as a student-athlete at FRA, he was a Club, outdoor club, and served as treasurer of the

where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business

team in both football and baseball. Dan founded

interceptions, caught 30 passes for 458 yards, scored

his time there, he grew the company from a small

leading his team to the District 7A Championship with

banking companies in the nation. Dan was awarded

Zaborowski, shared, “Dan was able to do anything

versatile in any position, both offense and defense.

there to have fun. It was infectious for the rest of the

Journal and The Tennessean newspaper in 2003 and Hall of Fame in 2013 and the Williamson County

community. His transformative support of Franklin and enhancing our facilities and improving our

honorable mention in the All-Nashville Baseball Team

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 26

1991 State Champion Football Team THE 1991 FOOTBALL TEAM was the first district team to have two consecutive undefeated seasons with a State Championship in football. The championship game was

played at Vanderbilt University on December 14, 1991 before a crowd of 9,500 where FRA defeated Trenton-Peabody 27-8.

Several players received honors for their outstanding

season. Todd Jenkins was named the Player of the Year and The Tennessean Metro Defensive Player of the Year. Greg Johnson was the Clinic Bowl MVP after scoring the first

touchdown of the game with a 71-yard run. Brink Fidler,

Chris Harwell, and Todd Jenkins were named to the AP All-

State Team. Ryan Bachman, Matt Gardner, Jason Tomichek, and Brink Fidler were named First Team Offense while Ben

Baldwin, Jay Beasley, and Chris Harwell were named to First Team Defense. Ryan Bachman was awarded the Offensive

“The thing that made this team different from any other was chemistry—our seniors had been together for 12 years.

Having taught them art in the second grade, I knew they were a special group. The unity and friendship between the players both on and off the field made a huge difference on game days.”

- DAVID TUCKER ASSISTANT COACH

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Player of the Year, named to the All-Metro Football Team, and presented the William P. Lawrence Scholar-Athlete Award by the National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame Awards.

The 1991 football team members were Donnie Abercrombie, Ryan Bachman, Ben Baldwin, Matt Barbour, Jay Beasley, Pat Berry, Darren Bishop, Sloan Bishop, Duncan Borders, John

Bussey, Gary Clarke, Tripp Claxton, Jonathan Claxton, Carter

Collins, Jeff Cowan, Matthew Crabtree, Joel DiLorenzo, Sandy Edmondson, Brink Fidler, Stephen Franklin, Bobby Fraser,

Matt Gardner, David Hardy, Chris Harwell, Todd Henningsen, Wesley Holder, Billy Howland, Eric Ingram, Todd Jenkins,

Greg Johnson, Luke Johnston, Seth Joyner, Shawn Killebrew, John Logan, Brent Mathes, Sandy Neblett, Rick Penney, Matt Penney, Sean Phillips, Danny Sehr, David Smith, Stan Stacey,

Eric Thomas, Brad Thomas, Scott Tomichek, Jason Tomichek, Michael Trautman, Jeremy Turner, Paul Turner, and Jody

Vaughan. The coaches were George Weicker, Gary Clarke, Dennis Harrison, and David Tucker. Coach Weicker was

named the Nashville Banner’s Metro Coach of the Year.  Nominations for the 2022 Athletics Hall of Fame are now open. For more information, visit www.franklinroadacademy.com/alumni

STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS THROUGH THE YEARS

GOLF GIRLS 2005 · 2006 · 2010 2012 · 2013 · 2015 · 2017 2018 · 2019 · 2020 BOYS 1993

BASEBALL

GIRLS BASKETBALL

1984 · 1988 · 2000 · 2016

FOOTBALL

2011 · 2013

1991

CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS 1996 · 1997 · 1998 BOYS 1997 · 1999 · 2000 2001 · 2002 · 2003 · 2005 2018

GIRLS SOCCER 2002 · 2004 · 2005 · 2007

TENNIS GIRLS 2004 · 2007 BOYS 2011

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 28

I N N OVAT I O N NEW LAB SPACES SPARK CREATIVITY AND DESIGN THINKING

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F E AT U R E S T O R Y

T

This past school year, both our lower and middle schools opened their own innovation labs­— allowing us to fully extend our innovation program across

all three divisions. With top-of-the-line resources and technologies, our student experience has been drastically enhanced. The addition of these new labs allows students from kindergarten through grade 12 the opportunity to develop skills in critical thinking and problem-solving using project-based learning at every level.

All three divisions not only offer academic courses in these spaces, but also robotics clubs and cocurriculars. Each space is specifically designed for the students' ages and experience levels. Every student has the opportunity to explore robotics, 3D-printing, and more throughout their entire education at FRA .

LOWER SCHOOL LAB The lower school innovation lab is adjacent to the lower school media center to allow students to conduct research in support of their ideas. Getting kids excited to propel their understanding of the things around them is the goal of this space.

"Everyday, we work toward igniting our students' curiosity to explore the questions they want to answer, problems they want to solve, and topics they want to learn more about. The lower school library and innovation lab are spaces for lower school students, teachers, and our community to gather, collaborate, and create. Our hope is to help students practice meaningful research while curating the vital skills of empathy, group work, reflection, failure, and analytical thinking," said Angelica Marsh, lower school technology integrator and media specialist.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 30

Being able to produce something on a global-

the space includes a lower school robotics team

level that directly relates to a real problem, real

starting with coding for our youngest learners,

resources, and real products is ongoing vision

a film production club that creates a weekly

for the new innovation spaces. Over time, guests,

production, and a tinker space where students

parents, and our community will walk into

can build.

the lower school library and be greeted with products and prototypes that students have created when learning this design-thinking process, like that of the 3-D printers.

MIDDLE SCHOOL LAB The new middle school innovation lab is equipped with 10 Prusa 3D printers, including

Students are engaged in project-based learning,

one that we have assembled with the students

which is a teaching method in which students

so that they have a knowledge of the mechanics

learn by actively engaging in real-world and

and inner workings of the machine. These

personally meaningful projects. The future for

machines handle the day-to-day printing that

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the students are doing and allow them to expand their knowledge base with each technology being used. Over the last semester, the 5th and 6th graders have used Tinkercad to design 3D printed keychains for their new PC cases and have printed the keychains on the Prusa printers.

With all of the technology acquired for the middle school space, the innovation lab is one of the best found in any independent school setting. Our lab not only features introductory level 3D printers, but tools such as the Ultimaker S5 Pro 3D printer that can handle larger, more intricate jobs and a more diverse filament selection. We also have a Universal laser cutter that can etch, engrave, and cut all materials including paper, glass, cardboard, and wood.

Beyond 3D printing, our middle school innovation lab has a Roland vinyl cutter that students can use for printing stickers and vinyl decals they have designed. The lab is also home to the middle school robotics program, which allows our students to complete at the local and national level.

Innovative programs are an important part of the student experience at FRA , and these new spaces challenge our students to think deeply, create diversely, and innovate differently. 

The expanded innovation program at FRA was a key component of the Strategic Vision for 2020-25. We recognize that our graduates must be able to creatively solve problems and think nimbly in a rapidly changing world. Developing these types of innovative programs provide our students with opportunities to lead and grow as thoughtful, well-balanced individuals.

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ALUM N US F EAT UR E D

David Chandler graduated from FRA in 2017 and went on to attend Valparaiso University in Indiana. At Valparaiso, David studied computer engineering and just recently graduated this past May. During his time at FRA, David was very involved with the FRA robotics team, the performing arts, as well as helping

teach design thinking courses during the summers. David has been important in not only building our program stronger within the FRA community, but in helping us learn how to better prepare students for moving on to college.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

33 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

D

During David’s senior year at FRA , the

Currently, David is working as an automation

newly formed robotics team qualified

engineer for Eli Lilly and Company, where he is

for the State Championship tournament,

developing tools to support the manufacturing of

where the team won the Innovate Award.

quality medicines that make life better for people.

The team also went on to qualify for the World

“Being a part of the first robotics program at FRA

Championship and was one of only six teams in the

taught me the skills I needed to create and fund a

world to win a Think Award.

new robotics team at Valparaiso where I led a team of engineers to qualify for the university-level

When looking back on FRA’s robotics program, David

World Championship and rank 18th in our first

recalled, “I loved being able to contribute something

season competing. Those experiences also allowed

new and see the team’s accelerated growth over the

me to demonstrate my abilities to employers, which

years.” Competing in tournaments was always fun and

provided me the opportunities I have today.” While

adrenaline filled for David, he loved seeing the team

being involved in FRA robotics, David believes he

work to be the best they could be in each moment.

developed skills that could have never been learned

He described the team as resilient, always powering

from a textbook.

through and never giving up. "I have fond memories of all the hours spent designing, building, programming,

"I hold this place very near to my heart. Having the

testing, and strategizing during any chance the

chance to contribute to something new and grow

team could find. I always enjoyed the design aspects

alongside my peers was priceless. I remember all

of robotics. Innovating solutions alongside my

the late nights and time with my friends in theater

teammates outside the structure of a typical classroom

shows, concerts, pep band, drumline, robotics

gave me an outlet to be creative while still engaging

tournaments, Disney competitions, and teaching

my math/science abilities,” David mentioned.

design thinking to middle school students in the Innovation Lab and working at the technology

Having the chance to encourage each other as a team,

desk during the summers,” said David. "I value each

fail as a team, and succeed as a team helped develop

opportunity FRA gave me not only to grow, but to

the team-oriented work ethic he uses to this day.

excel and make an impact. I am forever grateful for the incredible mentors who helped me become the

The upper school Innovation Lab was completed

person I am today including Dr. Weeks, Mr. Chandler,

during his senior year, and working in these high-tech

Mr. Daugherty, Mr. Compton, Mr. Bolen, and Mr.

spaces helped drive his passion to pursue a career in

Davis to name a few. The amount of care, knowledge,

engineering where he continues to tackle challenges

and trust they each instilled in me will last a lifetime.

with creative problem solving. "I'm so thankful I had

As FRA has taught me, when others see your passion,

the chance to work in a state-of-the-art environment

unimaginable opportunities will follow." 

that introduced me to advanced technologies, resources, and unique learning opportunities," said David.

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Bringing the mission of FRA to life

THE TURNER FELLOWSHIP In every classroom and in every program, FRA strives to bring its mission to life. From academic excellence to professional level arts programs, from competitive and character-building athletics to a Spiritual Emphasis Week designed to connect our students, faculty, and families across our campus. The focus on building a community established in Christian values and character are essential to delivering our mission to our students and families. However, FRA and the Turner Family Foundation, sought to move that emphasis into the broader community and came together to collaborate on a program that would not only enhance the lives of our students, but also deliver the mission to areas of great need in Nashville.

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TURNER FELLOWS

S

Since its inception in 2003, the Turner Fellowship program has sent 161 FRA students into the Nashville non-profit community

to serve those in need and train students to become lifelong servant leaders.

Sponsored by the Turner Family Foundation, the Turner Fellowship program at Franklin Road Academy offers students who are committed to making a difference in the lives of others, the opportunity to serve with non-profit organizations within the Nashville community. Each spring a selective application process is open to all rising seniors with 10 to 12 seniors selected to become interns in the program. Our Turner Fellows are recognized as exemplary FRA scholars with integrity, balance, and a strong commitment to community service.

2021-22 Turner Fellows

Each fellow completes a six week paid internship and is eligible for a Turner Family Scholarship to the college of his or her choice.

The organization in which a fellow serves receives a financial contribution donated in honor of that Turner Fellow. This program has contributed almost 40,000 service hours and over $500,000 in donations and scholarships to the community.

At the high school level, this internship is one of a kind in the state, and for the graduates of the program it has opened a career in philanthropy, social enterprise, and social work. Over the years, Turner Fellows have developed their skills at some of the leading colleges and universities in the country. From Vanderbilt and Belmont here at home, to Dartmouth in the east and Pepperdine in the West, Turner Fellows have

Hailey Blahauvietz SHOWER THE PEOPLE

Emily Day FIRST STEPS, INC.

Ben Dernbach WEST NASHVILLE DREAM CENTER

Caroline Dinker FANNIE BATTLE DAY HOME

Analise Gibbs BETHLEHEM CENTERS OF NASHVILLE

Paige Harris SALVATION ARMY

Kimi Hashimoto BAREFOOT REPUBLIC CAMP

Brookelynn Hunter PRESTON TAYLOR MINISTRIES

Amelia Keese MOTHER TO MOTHER

Beau Kirschner BAREFOOT REPUBLIC CAMP

earned scholarships to elite universities

Lily Paris

all over the United States. As significant

WEST NASHVILLE DREAM CENTER

as the Fellowship’s history has become, it is even more impressive to learn about the

Sophie Vincent PRESTON TAYLOR MINISTRIES

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 36

incredible students who bring this program to life.

Lily Paris ’22 served at the Dream Center during

At no time has the Fellowship been more important

the summer of 2021 and said, “Serving as a Turner

and more challenging as it has been during the global

Fellow with the West Nashville Dream Center was

pandemic. Fellows from the class of 2021 and 2022

a defining experience in my FRA career. I have

have gone above and beyond to ensure the enduring

always known that I was privileged to go to FRA ,

mission of the Fellowship and to help fill the

but the fellowship really helped me understand

massive service gap brought on by COVID-19 and the

the world around me including neighborhoods less

concurrent lockdowns and quarantines.

than 10 miles from my own. I was pushed outside

When the of the class of 2021 fellows began filling

of my comfort zone in the best way possible.

out their Turner Fellow applications, none of them

The West Nashville Dream Center will be an

had any idea that within a few months the world

organization I support for the rest of my life and

would be turned upside down, and forced inside, by

a jumping off point to seek out and give back to

the largest public health crisis in 100 years.

more service opportunities wherever I end up.”

In the non-profit world, the pandemic hit twice as

Each year, FRA Fellows return for their senior year

hard, impacting the local economy here in Nashville

prepared to lead with compassion and focus. This

in a way that dried up many revenue streams and

year, Lily will serve as President of the National

created even greater hardships for those in need.

Honor Society and has already organized a

The pandemic also limited the pool of volunteers

successful relief drive with the Dream Center to

who would typically sustain the delicate labor-

assist the flood ravaged Waverly community.

balance in the nonprofit world. Into that gap marched our Turner Fellows. The class of 2021 served

In order to become a partner agency with the

eight different Nashville nonprofits and provided

Fellowship the Turner Family Foundation, Fellows

over 3,000 hours of service at no expense to those

seek agencies that align with their philanthropic

agencies. The class of 2022 served 10 nonprofits with

goals – literacy, hunger, and most importantly

over 3,200 hours of service. Many Fellows spent

education and child services. FRA has been blessed

countless hours each day in masks and gloves caring

to connect with some of the most amazing child

for children, stocking food pantries, preparing food

and family care agencies in the mid-state. Each

for the homeless, or just providing much needed

year the Fellowship investigates new program

administrative assistance to overtaxed program

partnerships.

directors and executives.

The goal is to maintain roughly 20 partnerships Hayes Dalton ’21 said, “The Turner Fellowship has

which can rotate Fellows and allow opportunities

been such an impactful experience for me. Working

for FRA student to serve and engage with the

for the West Nashville Dream Center has taught me

outside community during the school year.

a lot about being empathetic, compassionate towards others, and working hard especially during a time of

According to FRA Service Life Coordinator Josh

crisis. I am forever grateful for the Turner Fellowship

Flegel, “The goal of the Fellowship is not just to

Program for my experience.” The Dream Center is

provide an opportunity for summer internships,

one of several community service and engagement

but to build and nurture sustainable year-round

centers in partnership with the Fellowship. Located

relationships with nonprofits throughout Nashville

off Charlotte Pike in East Nashville, the Center

where we can use our vast student and family

provides child care, food service, literacy workshops,

resources to assist wherever and whenever is

and church service to the West Nashville community.

needed. We have seen this bear great fruit as we

37 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

can mobilize quickly and effectively for disaster relief programs as well as partner with agencies for long-term mission and community service work. It’s the type of program that allows us to walk-the-walk and not just talk-the-talk.”

Into the loop came two new agencies in the midst of the pandemic – Shower the People and Mother-to-Mother. These agencies serve the growing demands of the at-need adult community in Nashville. Mother-to-Mother is an agency that serves as a clearing house for the needs of at-risk families from downtown Nashville to rural Dickson County.

Amelia Keese ’22 shared, “I really value the time and experiences that came from my Turner Fellowship with Mother-to-Mother. The Turner Fellowship has connected me with an amazing community of people and the nonprofit world.

During my internship, I learned to better manage my time and became more outgoing and comfortable with my community and my place in it. I met amazing people and members of other organizations determined to improve the quality of parenthood and childhood for impoverished communities—I am extremely grateful to have been part of that effort.”

Also new to the Fellowship in the summer of 2020 was Shower the People, an agency committed to the health and vocational development of needy adults in the Nashville community. Caleb Huddleston ’21 and Hailey Blahauvietz ’22 have both served with Shower the People. Huddleston said, “I had a fantastic time working with Shower the People, a homelessness-centered nonprofit in Nashville, for the Turner Fellowship. I gained a remarkable amount of insight into

“The Turner Fellowship has been such an impactful experience for me. Working for the West Nashville Dream Center has taught me a lot about being empathetic, compassionate towards others, and working hard especially during a time of crisis. I am forever grateful for the Turner Fellowship Program for my experience.”

the lives of the homeless in Nashville and was able to expand my understanding of the issue significantly. I am proud of what we were able

– HAYES DALTON ‘21 –

to accomplish.” The addition of these agencies

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 38

39 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

also allows us to deepen the ties to our own FRA community as each agency has been administered and led by an FRA family.

There is not enough time to tell the story of all 161 Fellows, but we can see their work in the success of every partner agency and in the durability of this program. At the center of this amazing program will forever be the Christian mission of FRA .

Kimi Hashimoto ’22 sums it up best, “Being able to represent Franklin Road Academy as a Turner Fellow was truly a blessing. Being an intern helped me see the reality of how hard people work on a daily basis, and it opened my eyes to appreciate the small things we are blessed to have in our lives. I learned from the people I worked with that love is the most beautiful aspect of life. The staff at Barefoot Republic brought joy to kids by working hard and simply loving them like Jesus did. They inspired me to grow closer in my faith, and they taught me how to love people unconditionally through actions and words. I’m forever thankful for my Turner Fellowship experience.” 

To read the 2021-22 Turner Fellow blogs and to learn more about the program, visit www.franklinroadacademy.com/ campus-life/cps.

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HEART to HEART

Preparing students for continued success through life’s transitions BY

ALANA HILKIN, Director of Heart of Heart

The Heart to Heart program began in 2006 with the vision of providing a meaningful education to students with Down syndrome in a Christian community. There have been three graduates of the program who have all attended major universities for post-secondary transition programs.

As the community has grown over the years and to better accommodate the needs of diverse learners, we developed plans to further prepare our learners for their needs in moving toward post-secondary education.

41 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

S I G N AT U R E P R O G R A M S

hopes of providing him with the same opportunities and experiences as their other children attending FRA . The goal of the program was to integrate the students with Down syndrome in a college preparatory, Christian community that was known for its academic rigor. FRA became one of the first independent schools in the area to create a space for students with intellectual disabilities.

The Heart to Heart program was initially established as a 1-to-1 student-to-teacher model where each student had access to a master's level special education teacher for all academic, social, and emotional learning. As post-secondary collegiate opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities have increased nationwide, the Heart to Heart team researched multiple models to determine how to shift the program to meet and exceed the requirements of top-tier collegiate transition programs across the country.

SHIFTING TO A SERVICE-BASED LEARNING MODEL The shift from a one-to-one model to a servicebased model allows each Heart to Heart teacher to specialize in a specific content area in order to provide more intensive instruction in the areas of reading, math, and life skills.

THE BEGINNING The Heart to Heart program has been providing opportunities, both academically and socially, for students with Down syndrome since 2006. It has arguably helped change the culture of the school, instilling empathy and changing perceptions of the typical FRA student and how they respond and relate to others.

Sixteen years ago, a family with a son with Down syndrome first proposed the idea of Heart to Heart in

Students' schedules are created with their transition goals in mind and based on their ability level and access to content. Heart to Heart teachers provide ongoing training to classroom faculty members to better serve the students in their classroom, requiring less pull out from class. Heart to Heart teachers are able to focus more on intervention in reading, writing, math, and social skills.

The Heart to Heart teachers also work with divisional leaders and faculty members to ensure all school staff have the necessary tools to incorporate students

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 42

with diverse needs into their classroom on a social, functional, and academic level. The Heart to Heart teachers use data from the intervention areas to make decisions on what skills each student needs to focus on developing.

“The new model is far more comprehensive and better integrates our learning community by setting in motion processes that benefit all types of learners—not just our students with Down syndrome," eighth grade English teacher, Tricia Kriese said.

As students progress into middle and upper school, each student’s schedule is designed to fit their interests and needs. Schedules are created based on the students' adaptive abilities, personality, and goals for post-secondary education and career. Heart to Heart takes the individualized approach to look at each student and asks, ‘How can we best build a schedule for you that will enrich you and get you to where you want to go?’ Heart to Heart has made it a priority to make sure that each student in the program is meeting post-secondary requirements for transition programs.

EXCEPTIONAL LEARNERS Alongside each individualized schedule and approach, Heart to Heart introduced the Exceptional Learners program this school year. In order to make a bigger impact within our community, typically developing juniors and seniors can take an academic elective called Exceptional Learners which is a practicum-like class. Students are selected for the course through an application process and then assigned as a mentor to a middle school and upper school student in the Heart to Heart program. The student mentors are introduced to working in special education, and 70 percent of their time is dedicated to working directly with a student in the Heart to Heart program.

43 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

Mentor students utilize the remainder of their time to study content through the exceptional learners and psycho-education studies class.

This class gives the mentor students real-world work experience in the field while providing the students in the Heart to Heart program a more authentic relationship with their peers. The mentor students support some academic goals but mainly focus on helping to develop peerto-peer interaction and acceptance in the class setting.

LOOKING AHEAD This spring, the Heart to Heart program will

“We are thrilled that the Heart to

pilot a work-based learning course where upper school students will have time dedicated to

Heart program is evolving. This

developing the required work skills and training

new model is a more realistic

food. The program is designed to grow with the

reflection of college-based programs for students with Down syndrome. The exceptional learners program offers accountability and interaction with peers. Maddox

for fields such as hospitality, maintenance, and student's individual needs, building each year as he or she progresses through the upper school.

By junior or senior year, the goal is to have the student independently working in a similar field off campus with some of FRA’s partners. All these advancements make it such a special time to be a part of the FRA community.

is most successful when he is

FRA would never be the same without the Heart

motivated by his peers and this

and mentors who have made the program what

new program benefits all of FRA by fostering connections and understanding differences and disabilities.”

to Heart program and the students, teachers, it is today. As the program continues to grow and advance, our community is strengthened as a result of hard work, compassion, and our school community for seeing them as they are—a student first. 

— LISA RODRIGUEZ — Mother to Maddox Rodriguez '24

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S TUD EN TS WHO IN S PIRE

THATCHER FRANKFATHER '22 STUDENT MENTOR F OR T HE EX C EPTIO N AL L EARN ERS PRO G RAM

F

FRA has taught me that everyone has a

ceramics class with Maddox. At the beginning of the

different story. I’ve learned so many things

school year, we would go to class each day and he

academically, but most of what I’ve learned

would dread getting his hands dirty. After a semester

at FRA goes far beyond the classroom. I’ve

of setting goals and making progress, ceramics is now

learned to appreciate how unique people’s personalities

one of his favorite classes. Maddox is able to push

are, to never judge someone because of their appearance

himself and be creative without stressing about the

or abilities, and to always strive to be a better leader in

clay all over his hands. Now, when we go to ceramics,

our society.

I leave with a smile hearing Maddox say, “I love ceramics. It’s fun getting your hands dirty!”

This year, I was selected for the inaugural Exceptional Learners program, where we learn about students

I’m learning the importance of forming relationships

with different disabilities. The course curriculum was

and what it means to know people deeply, appreciate

designed by Heart to Heart teacher Natalie Scruggs

their differences, and support them endlessly. I hope

and combines case studies analysis and research with

future students taking this course come ready to be

hands-on, classroom learning alongside students in the

impacted and challenged. My eyes have been opened to

Heart to Heart program.

what it means to be a part of the FRA family and how we can all help each other grow. I hope the program

I’m fortunate to be mentoring Maddox Rodriguez.

continues to expand and becomes a staple in the

Although we may be very different in our interests,

FRA curriculum. The Exceptional Learners program

Maddox and I have an incredible friendship. As a part

is changing lives, especially mine. I hope every FRA

of the Exceptional Learners curriculum, I have learned

student has the chance to grow alongside these

important skills such as accommodating our partners,

amazing students. 

not modifying things for them.

Thatcher is a senior and has attended FRA since Maddox and the Exceptional Learners program have

kindergarten. He was one of nine students selected to

made a significant impact on my life beause I am

participate in the Exceptional Learners program this year.

making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Outside the classroom, Thatcher was the 2021 Region and

Maddox is a friend to everyone, always wanting to give

State Champion in track and field for the 400M. He was

his friends a hug and greeting them with a smile.

also named TWSA All-State in track and field and wrestling.

He recently qualified for the 2022 New Balance National

One of my favorite memories has been going to

Indoor Track Meet by scoring a 6300 in the decathlon.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

45 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

"I’m learning the importance of forming relationships and what it means to know people deeply, appreciate their differences, and support them endlessly."

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 46

S P I R I T UA L

EMPHASIS WEEK BY

BRANDON ALBRIGHT, Director of Spiritual Life

The heartbeat of Franklin Road Academy is our mission to provide a challenging educational experience in an inclusive Christian community with an unwavering commitment to develop leaders of integrity and purpose. A core part of accomplishing this mission is through Spiritual Life where students have an opportunity to hear and learn about Jesus and His incredible love for us, dive deeper into their faith, and grow as Christ-like, servant leaders. Some of the ways this is accomplished include sharing a devotion during daily convocations, attending regularly held chapels, going on a mission trip, serving our local community through service projects, participating in a Bible study or on a spiritual life team, and partnering with ministries like FCA and Younglife. But perhaps none of these are as highly regarded as a tradition that can be traced back to the early days of our school history: Spiritual Emphasis Week.

S I G N AT U R E P R O G R A M S

47 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

Spiritual Emphasis Week, known affectionately as SEW

Emphasis Week was truly a turning point in my life and

to those in the FRA community, is a week-long event

40+ years later still guides me through my daily walk of

that allows us to focus on and be rejuvenated by the

faith with the Lord," Lisa Baskin '81 said.

gospel of Jesus Christ in the midst of the busy school year and to live out his example of service.

Story after story can be told of the ways in which the Holy Spirit has moved throughout the week in worship

“I vividly remember the impact that Spiritual Emphasis

and through biblical teaching. SEW has served for

Week had on me and my thoughts on the life that I

so many over the years as a foundational moment

wanted to live in Christ. As a student in 1980, listening

and launching point into faith in Christ. I’ve had the

to one speaker in particular, Clebe McClary, had a very

opportunity to speak with many people from across

profound effect on me. He gave the most genuine

the history of FRA, and a lot of them can still recall

witness that I have ever heard. To this day, when I

a speaker or talk that influenced, strengthened, or

think things are going wrong in my life, I think of the

challenged them. Over the years, we have welcomed

tragic cards that he was dealt in the Vietnam War and

Christian musicians, authors, speakers, pastors, and

how he chose to rise up and tell everyone about his

leaders who have shared songs, words, and stories

amazing faith in the Lord. His message during Spiritual

of how God has been at work in their lives and in the

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 48

49 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

world. It’s often a highlight of the year and we’ve been blessed to see God make Himself known in special ways over the years.

Every year, we dive into a biblical theme where students hear from various speakers and partake in activities that help encourage spiritual growth. Several traditions have arisen from SEW over the last few decades, including all school chapels, special cross-divisional experiences, and our annual SEW Service Day. On the final day of Spiritual Emphasis Week, we have the opportunity to partner with various organizations and ministries across the city of Nashville to do good together. Our students head into food pantries, local schools, inner city programs, homeless ministries, and incredible non-profits to spend a few hours being the hands and feet of Jesus. It’s an incredible conclusion to the week and has allowed us to hear some beautiful stories of God at work from our students and grown some amazing relationships with organizations across the city.

Spiritual Emphasis Week is a special tradition and a yearly reminder of how amazing God is and how much He’s blessed our FRA community. It’s a chance for us to learn, worship, and grow together. It’s an opportunity to live out our Christian mission in incredible ways. We’re grateful that God continues to write beautiful stories in the lives of our students and can’t wait to see the ways He will continue to work in the next 50 years! 

The first Spiritual Emphasis Week took place in the 1979-80 school year.

Throughout the week, a variety of guests came to talk to students about fellowship with Christ. The careers and lives of each guest varied from the sports-related life of Mr. Bill Wade to the life of Lt. Clebe McClary, who fought in the Vietnam War. Each message given that year provided a special message that every student could find touching and motivating for their own personal relationship with Jesus. The week ended with a panel discussion, allowing students to contribute ideas to help shape the future of Spiritual Emphasis Week.

Since then, Spiritual Emphasis Week has been shaped by students for students and continues to be a meaningful and moving experience for the entire FRA community.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 50

LESSONS

of

WINTER BY

T

ALLISON HAMMAT, Director of Counseling

There is something about winter I really love. Maybe it is the hot

chocolate on cold evenings, sweatpants and warm socks, the crackle of the fireplace, or the pop of red in the trees as cardinals perch on a rare

snowy morning. The reduction in daylight and the increase of darkness

are a nudge to turn our attention inwards and to pay greater attention to our inner lives. Like trees, we humans require time out from our busy lives to ask ourselves

important questions as we head towards the beginning of a new year. When the leaves are stripped from the branches, nothing is hidden. It’s all laid out for us to see. Winter shows us what is broken. It shows us what is strong and sturdy. And it shows us what

is new and emerging. The winter months require astute observations and application

of the things that nourish and replenish us. We are in winter now, and there is much to learn.

51 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

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

Lesson from the Fresh Snowfall: Make Your Mark

Lesson from the Snowflakes: Be Gentle and Resilient

Fresh blankets of snow beckon new experiences in

Snowflakes are ice crystals falling through the sky.

our daily lives. Being the first to make a footprint

They fall gently and are solid as they stay in their

can be scary; you might even sink into the deep cold

unique design. Float gracefully through your days. Be

at first, but each step will become a little easier as

soft and kind while also holding onto your strength

you begin to know what to expect. Look back every

and confidence. You are an original, a unique pattern

now and then at your footprints behind you and the

floating through life surrounded by others who

path you have created, and consider how you are

are also trying to stay true to their own blueprint.

making a difference for the next person to walk in

Respect the journey of those around you as you drift

your tracks. Approach new opportunities in life as

with purpose of your own. Just like that snowflake,

you would run through an untouched path of snow

you are distinct and one of a kind. Take the quiet,

— with excitement, balance, and trust.

peaceful season of winter as a time to self-reflect and

Lesson from the Trees: Be Vulnerable and Stay True As deciduous trees transition into the winter months, they are left with twisted branches, aged bark, and the remains of leaves left behind by the

also recognize the transience of your thoughts. Like every snowflake eventually melts, let those thoughts disappear.

Lesson from Hibernation: Be Prepared

fall breeze. It is when the branches are bare that

As the months become colder, preparation begins for

we are able to see beyond where the lush greenery

the long winter ahead as animals gather food and

would have limited our view. We are able to look

prepare their bodies for the long season of dormancy

past them and see the landscape beyond that opens

ahead. Survival through this change in weather is

our eyes up to a whole new perspective. Without the

reliant on preparation and instinct. While we don’t

vulnerability of the bare branches, our perspective

have to prepare for these months quite like animals

would never reach its full potential or see the story

do, we do have other changes in our lives that we

beyond the leaves. Allow your leaves to come down

must prepare to embrace. Understand that change is

off of your own branches every now and then. Open

constant, and prepare your heart and your mind to

up your story to someone, or take a leap of faith that

roll with any changes that enter your life.

leaves you feeling a little unsure or exposed.

Evergreen trees are known for being able to brave the cold temperatures and keep their foliage year round. No matter the weather conditions or how low the temperature drops, these trees stand tall and resilient to change. Stay true to your roots in times of stress or hardship. Embrace change, but hold onto your core values and truths. These will keep you grounded through even the harshest weather.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 52

Winter Reflections

Give yourself permission to bring yourself back in alignment with what is true and right for you.

Lesson from the Icicles: Trust in Your Process In order for an icicle to form, weather conditions and temperatures have to be just right. These natural wonders prove that a combination of conditions accompanied with a process goes into their beautiful creation. Trust in your own process in life, whatever that may be. What are you working to put into place? If you’re not reaching a particular goal, what one thing is missing? Trust

ASK YOURSELF: What emotions am I noticing today?

What sensations am I experiencing?

What angers me?

What saddens me?

What drives me?

What repels me?

What conversations am I having with myself?

What are the thoughts I am telling myself over and over again?

that everything that you’re doing is leading to something extraordinary in the end, and that one day everything you’re doing will align, and the icicle meant for you will form.

Lesson from the Short Days: Work Hard, Rest Harder As daylight become shorter, it almost seems as if there is less time in the day to be productive. The winter seems to encourage us to slow down earlier in the day and make time for rest. Keep productivity high during the daylight hours, but take the time to rejuvenate your body and soul when the sun goes down. This could be in the form of exercise, reading that book you’ve had on your nightstand, journaling, or just being with the people who are important to you. Winter lends itself to being a season of reflection and self-care. Give yourself

Self-reflection exercises are best done over the course of a two to three week period in order to determine similarities. Review your notes after each week to see if you can find patterns beginning to emerge.

permission to do these things when your body and mind are telling you that they are needed.

Winter is hard. And it’s essential. If we wish it to be summer, we lose this necessary opportunity to learn and grow. This is the time to reflect, examine, and restore. To gather and heal. To clear out what’s

What are those common themes that keep coming up?

not working and make room for new life and new connections. This is the time to prepare the soil so spring can come.

53 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

Understanding and Recognizing Seasonal Affective Disorder The reduced light, warmth, and color of winter leaves lots of people feeling a little more melancholy or tired, which isn’t necessarily something to worry about. But if your symptoms crop up around the same time each year, have a real impact on your quality of life, and improve when the seasons

As with depression, the severity of SAD symptoms can vary from person to person—often depending

change, you may have seasonal affective disorder.

on genetic vulnerability and geographic location.

The signs and symptoms of seasonal affective

at the start of fall and get progressively worse

disorder are the same as those for major depression.

SAD is distinguished from depression by the remission of symptoms in the spring and summer months (or winter and fall in the case of summer

For many, the symptoms usually begin mildly through the darkest days of winter. Then, by spring or early summer, the symptoms lift until you’re in remission and feel normal and healthy again. Regardless of the timing or persistence

SAD).

of your symptoms, if your depression feels

COMMON SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:

it’s time to seek help. 

overwhelming and is adversely affecting your life,

• Depressed mood, low self-esteem • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you typically enjoy

As a part of the strategic vision for 2020-25, FRA has

• Appetite and weight changes

prioritized enhancing health and wellness training for our

• Feeling angry, irritable, stressed, or anxious

students, faculty, and parents. We have seven counselors

• Unexplained aches and pains

serving students across the lower school, middle school,

• Changes in sleeping pattern

upper school, and ASPIRE program. In addition to the

• Difficulty concentrating

wellness newsletter and ongoing academic programming,

• Fatigue and lack of energy

the wellness feature in the magazine is one of several

• Use of drugs or alcohol for comfort

resources the counseling department provides throughout

• Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair

the year.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 54

BY

JOSH FLEGEL, Service Life Coordinator

The fall semester has been an incredible time to

day on campus sponsoring the Special Olympics of

reintroduce service to our student body following

Tennessee, hosting a trunk-or-treat event to benefit

the challenges of the last year and a half. While

special needs, and sponsoring multiple campus

the 2019-20 school year had several great events

supply and food drives.

including a massive Christmas toy drive, a record setting spring blood drive, and incredible summer

Finally, after a year-long hiatus due to COVID-19,

internships through the Turner Fellow program,

we were proud to reintroduce one of our hallmark

much of what connected our students to the need

events­—Service Saturday. This year the FRA

in the larger world had to be put on hold. So far

Service Club opted to coordinate this event with

in 2020-21, FRA students have risen to the call for

the Christmas season. Kicking off Christmas on

renewed service during these tough times.

campus, the Service Club hosted a 5k to benefit the American Cancer Society on Saturday, December 4.

Our students have been involved in bringing our

On a pleasant and slightly damp Saturday morning,

mission to life through service initiatives, from

over one hundred members of our community

showing up in force for the JDRF Walk-for-the-Cure

gathered in front of the lower school to recognize

event to fight diabetes, to spending an awesome

and support those who are fighting, and winning,

S E R V I C E AT F R A

55 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

the battle against cancer and to honor those who

those in our community. The FRA campus has been

have lost the fight. Each of the participants made a

used for several charity run/walk events in the past,

donation in order to run in the event, and at the end

and the turnout for this event has sparked interest

of the day, these runners and walkers raised over

in future charity runs on our campus.

$2,500 for the American Cancer Society.

The Service Club has been busy collecting supplies In addition to the run/walk, Shower Up was on campus

through the holiday season and wish to thank all

raising awareness for the plight of the homeless in the

who donated to the GraceWorks toy drive, to the

Nashville community, and the lower school dining hall

Shower Up supply drive, and most recently to the

was busy with students packaging personal hygiene

disaster relief drive to assist those impacted by the

supplies to be used by Shower Up through the

violent storms that hit Tennessee and Kentucky

holiday season. All-in-all it was a perfect way to bring

in early December. We are excited to see our

back a valued event on our campus and provide our

students and community continue this awesome

students and families an opportunity to volunteer for,

and meaningful work in the spring semester. 

participate in, and support a cause near to many of

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 56

STU DEN TS WHO G IVE

I

Emerson Hood I have so much fun designing earrings!

in the house to make even more earring designs,

I love being able to make new designs,

create a catalog, and even use social media to

use different combinations, and choose

spread the word. It gave people the chance to

different stones. After being gifted an

accessorize even when they had to wear masks.

earring-making kit for my birthday two years ago,

As the pandemic went on, I gained more and more

I found my love for making jewelry. After a few

love for what I was doing. I was the head designer

different designs, I had lots of people asking me for a

leading my own business for the good of those

pair of earrings. I was selling them at camp, to family

around me.

members, and even just friends who saw them. My projects were really doing well so I decided it was

My business quickly started to grow and some

time to start a business!

festivals were welcoming me with open arms to come and sell my product, while all my friends

My parents and I sat around and thought about all

wanted a pair of my earrings. I was invited to have

the good that came from my business beyond the

a pop-up shop at the Music City Lifest, one of the

earrings. We decided some of the money I earned

largest Christian music festivals in the nation.

should be used for something bigger, and that’s when

Over the course of the weekend, there were people

we heard more about the Nashville Rescue Mission.

from all over the United States hearing my mission

My entire life, I have always had a big heart for the

and supporting my business.

homeless. There are people all over Nashville who don’t have what we have, but still deserve a chance to

One of my favorite parts about this business is that

be on their feet and to be shown love.

I not only get to help those in need, but I also have the chance to meet and connect with new people.

Once we came up with the mission for my jewelry, it

At the Lifest, I met a lady who told me a story about

was time to get busy. I decided to name my business

God and how he always is proud of his children.

Emerald’s Earrings. When I was little, I used to tell my

She told me God often ‘winks’ at us in little ways

mom that I wished my name was Emerald instead of

throughout our life. I’ll never forget meeting her or

Emerson. I had also been designing earrings with all

the many people I’ve met along the way.

different types of pretty stones, like emeralds. It led to the perfect name, and it stuck!

When I take trips to the Nashville Rescue Mission and make my donations, I have the chance to

During the pandemic, when places were closed and

remember why I make my earrings and the impact

we were all at home, I decided to use my time locked

I get to have in the lives of others. I don’t need the

STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS

57 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

money for myself, but I hope the money I make is

holds for Emerald’s Earrings and for how I can

helping improve the Nashville Rescue Mission and

continue to give back to my community. 

the lives of all the people who need our help.

Emerson joined FRA this year as a fifth grader. When Emerald’s Earrings has helped me grow more each

she is not creating jewelry to raise money for various

day. I make new friendships because of the earrings

organizations, she enjoys being a member of the middle

and get to connect with many different people. Any

school dance team and competing in gymnastics. In a

time I have to sit down and make new earrings, I

recent gymnastics meet, she earned first place all around,

am filled with joy knowing this is all for more than

first place on bar, first place on floor, and third place on

myself. It makes me happy to know that what I

vault. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments

produce brings other people joy, not only for those

and her generous spirit.

wearing my earrings, but for the donations I’m able to give the homeless. I can’t wait to see what the future

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 58

S TU DEN TS WHO S ER VE

Hailey Blahauvietz & Isabelle Steinert I

Isabelle "Izzy" Steinert and Hailey

together was a huge moment for our friendship.

Blahauvietz, both seniors at FRA , recently

We motivated each other through challenges and

completed the honor of becoming Eagle

cheered each other on through each new thing

Scouts. After months of service projects,

we tried. The whole process brought us closer as

earning a variety of honors, and applying different

friends," Izzy recalled. Starting the process at the

learned skill-sets, the two friends gained the highest

age of sixteen, both girls had exactly two years to

title in Boy Scouts. Each of the girls were pushed to

finish all that was needed to earn the title of Eagle

try new things, overcome difficult obstacles, and learn

Scout by eighteen.

more about becoming a leader in our community.

Their troop leader, Mr. Garza, was eager to help the Hailey first was interested in scouting after her

two achieve their goal. After strategizing plans to

brother accomplished becoming an Eagle Scout. She

accomplish each task needed, the two friends began

was able to see the grit, determination, and reward

multiple high adventure trips to expand their skills.

from his journey. Hailey had always wanted to join

“The first half of our process was skill based and

Girl Scouts, but felt she would be starting too late to

included a lot of courses, learning, and hands-on

accomplish all she hoped. She dreamed of learning as

tasks. The second half focused on leadership. We

her brother did and was ready when the opportunity

had timed requirements, including a large project

arose. The two friends began their journey to

that benefited our community," Hailey said. When it

becoming Boy Scouts when Hailey’s church started

came time to choose their projects, Izzy and Hailey

their own Boy Scout troop. After Hailey learned about

both quickly identified places of great significance

the opportunity, she asked Izzy to be a part of the

to them.

troop and join with her.

Izzy decided to spend her time working at her Both girls knew this was a unique opportunity

grandparents' church, Hillsboro Presbyterian.

because it was one of the first Boy Scout troops to

The church has a space known as the Memorial

allow girls to join. Hailey and Izzy both wanted the

Garden that hadn’t been taken care of in recent

chance to serve as a role model and pave the way for

years. Izzy had a vision to revamp the space and

girls joining Boy Scouts in the future. “Joining Scouts

bring its natural beauty back to life. Izzy revealed

STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS

59 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

more about the background work saying, “The process took a lot of paperwork and jumping through hoops to finally get to the project, but I was excited once I finally got the okay.” From re-landscaping the space to painting benches, Izzy made the space look brand new. She left the project feeling accomplished knowing not only her grandparents, but all the members of Hillsboro Presbyterian would benefit from this updated space.

Hailey also wanted to accomplish a project at a place that had special meaning to her. What better place than right here at FRA? After looking around our campus, Hailey knew she wanted to create a more magical space for students in the lower school garden. After getting approval to move forward with her project, she replaced the soil beds, put in an educational root system, and even created an insect hotel and bird house. Hailey’s vision was to create an ecosystem for the lower school students to not only learn from, but take ownership and pride in caring for each

“Joining Scouts together was a huge moment for our friendship. We both were able to motivate each other through challenges and cheer each other on through each new thing we tried. The whole process brought us closer as friends.”

year. Hailey worked closely with Dr. Fred Frawley, former dean of the middle school, to create a space that supported growing fruits, vegetables, and other plants for our lower school students. Hailey’s vision, combined with the help of countless volunteers, transformed our lower school into an educational outdoor space for our youngest students to explore, learn, and grow.

After completing her requirements in record time, Izzy was the first to finish her project and was honored as a member of the inaugural class of female Eagle Scouts. There was a special presentation held virtually from Grand Ole Opry to honor and celebrate this group of 21 female scouts from Middle Tennessee. “It’s

– IZZY STEINERT ‘22 –

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 60

one of my biggest accomplishments. I’m so proud I pushed myself to be one of the first.

It’s an intimidating process to be one of the first girls to step into something usually malecentric,” Izzy recalled. Soon after, Hailey earned her Eagle Scout honor alongside her best friend.

After hard work and determination, the two completed the process and were able to reflect on the strenuous work they had put in over the course of two years. “There had been a time we both decided to do a mile long swim at one of our campouts. We had been camping in east Tennessee and decided this was something we wanted to tackle. The experience we had cheering each other on, motivating each other, and helping each other persevere was one of my favorite memories and favorite accomplishments,” Izzy said.

Hailey also reflected on the trips the two took together. “We both had the opportunity to go sailing in the Florida Keys. We were living with eight girls on a tiny boat in the middle of the ocean. Izzy and I were both the oldest girls on

“I’m walking away not only as an Eagle Scout, but as a confident woman. I now know I can walk into any room and

the boat, and it gave me a chance to not only go on a high-adventure trip, but to be a leader to the younger girls,” Hailey said. Izzy agreed saying, “I know how to be a better leader. I understand how to listen to others better, while at the same time knowing when and how to speak up and serve when needed. I really recognize now how important it is for me to

show I belong too. I’ve learned

give back to our community.”

what it means to be passionate

As they move into the last semester of their

and push yourself.”

senior year at FRA , the two friends are proud of what they pushed each other to accomplish and all they learned in the process. “I’m walking

– HAILEY BLAHAUVIETZ ‘22 –

61 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

away not only as an Eagle Scout, but as a

confident woman. I now know I can walk into any

the FRA robotics team. Hailey plans to pursue electrical

room and show I belong too. I’ve learned what it

engineering next year in college.

means to be passionate and push yourself," Hailey said. Both Hailey and Izzy felt this was a process

Izzy is a senior and has attended FRA since Pre-K4. She

that helped shape them into better women and

is a member of National Honor Society and Service

better members of our community.

Club. In addition to being an Eagle Scout, she loves art and plans to study architecture next year in college.

Throughout this experience, Hailey and Izzy both sharpened each other and hope their accomplishments as female Eagle Scouts inspire other girls to challenge themselves to chase their dreams. 

Hailey is a senior and has attended FRA since kindergarten. Currently, she serves as Student Body Vice-President, volunteers with Shower the People, and is involved with National Honor Society, performing arts, the Mayor’s Youth Council, the 12-Year Club, and

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 62

arts

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

63 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

VISUAL ART | Throughout the year, our lower, middle, and upper school

students showcase their visual artwork. From acrylics to ceramics, our students have the opportunity to explore a variety of mediums to express their creativity.

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 64

65 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS | To learn more about upcoming performances, shows, and ways to support the arts at FRA, visit www.franklinroadacademy.com/arts

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 66

NASHVILLE | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2021

NEWSIES STOP THE WORLD! T

The story of Newsies highlights a tale of

The work our cast put in throughout this entire

dedication, grit, and triumph among a group

process has made this show come to life and jump

of creative young people. On a hot, New York

from the script. The countless hours the students

summer night in 1899, with the symbolic

spent rehearing, memorizing lines, and learning and

act of overturning a distribution wagon, thousands of

developing their characters is truly inspiring," said

corner newsboys and newsgirls went on strike against

Ross Bolen, director.

the two largest newspapers in the country: Joseph Pulitzer’s New York World and William Randolph

This year's upper school production of Newsies featured

Hearst’s New York Journal. Lasting about two weeks,

numerous seasoned performers as well as many new

mobs of these kids filled the streets of Manhattan,

faces. Due to the pandemic, several sophomores joined

prevented circulation of the papers, and ultimately

the performing arts program this year for the first time

"stopped the World!"

as upper school students.

A similar story of determination and resilience can

"It is so much fun to see the talent emerge from the

be told for the upper school students involved in this

students and see them grow and embrace their roles,"

production. "Putting on a show like Newsies requires a

said Shannon Spencer, stage director. "The cast brought

great deal of commitment, drive, and energy.

so much energy to the room that it is hard to wrangle in

FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS

67 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

HEADLINE STORY | NEWSIES STOP THE WORLD

at times. One of my favorite memories of the show was opening night. Senior Natalie Richter, who played Katherine, had a show-stopping solo number in the first act. She nailed the song, and as soon as lights went out the house erupted! I was ecstatic for her in that moment as all her hard work was given its moment to shine. That is what I celebrate the most for all the students, making it through the long and tiring rehearsal process to that first full audience, and seeing them get the applause they highly deserve. They are all stars and it is such an honor to be a part of each spectacular FRA production!"

Natalie recently reflected on how her experiences in theater have influenced her future plans.

“Being involved in the performing arts at FRA has equipped me for the next chapter in my life. Next year, I’m planning to study theatre in college, and I attribute my passion for performing to many of the opportunities I have had here at FRA. I’ve been challenged and encouraged every step of the way.” participate in Newsies. My mom had a friend who In addition to the on-stage performers, an elaborate

was in the Broadway production, and I had always

production like Newsies requires support from

wanted to be a part of it. Being able to stage manage,

students who fill roles as technology and lighting

build sets, and work to make the show great was one

specialists, set and scene construction crew

of my favorite accomplishments. Being involved in the

members, choreographers, and assistant stage

fine and performing arts program at FRA has allowed

managers. "I was blessed to have senior Lily Paris

me to experience a whole different side to our school

and sophomore Leland Soleby working with

community, and I’m thankful I could be involved in

me this year as assistant stage managers," said

this FRAmily production.”

Spencer. "I cannot begin to tell you how much they excelled in their roles and the level of maturity and

We congratulate all of the members of our community

professionalism, and skill that they displayed."

who poured their hearts into this production. 

Lily shared her experience as an assistant stage manager for the production. “I was so excited to

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 68

FACU LTY WHO IN S PIRE

BRENDA JEWELL INSPIRING OUR STUDENTS THROUGH FAITH, LOVE, AND MUSIC

C

Mrs. Brenda Jewell began her career

stage at Carnegie Hall. These experiences not only

part time for the school, she was

provide lasting memories and confidence to support

with FRA in 1996. While working asked to helo some of the other

music teachers with a piece that was

contibute to advancing our students as musicians, but their journey of pursuing thier passions.

being performed by the middle school. She quickly

In addition to these unique travel and performance

the school placed on building strong relationships

the mission of our school, the choirs also serve the

fell in love with the small class sizes and the value

with students. After falling in love with the school's

Christian mission and values, she joined FRA as a fulltime faculty member.

experiences and as an important component to

greater community by performing a service project

together. “Our kids know how to act, how to love well, and how to give back to the community. That is the

heart of our school and they show it so well,” said Mrs.

Mrs. Jewell was quick to take our music

programming to the next level. The choir was split

Jewell.

into three, allowing one choir for each division.

Throughout her time at FRA, Mrs. Jewell has not

students allowed her to attract remarkable talent

music, but also the highest quality relationships with

Mrs. Jewell's dedication to music and love for her to the music program. Some of her favorite alumni, Jodi Troutt ‘99, Sharon Crabtree ‘99, Jay Salato ‘03, Sarah Moore ‘09, Julianne Murphy Longworth ‘09,

Abby Wharton Pinkney ‘11, and Savannah Carpenter ‘09, are now leading instruction in their own areas of expertise at FRA. Mrs. Jewell was building some of

the strongest relationships on campus while helping FRA’s choral program to excel drastically.

Her dedication to the music program has allowed our students to enjoy many unique opportunities

including opening for the Rockettes, singing at the Ryman, honoring Pearl Harbor, countless trips to

New York City and Walt Disney World, and taking the

only focused on producing the highest quality of

her students and fellow faculty members. In 1998,

Mr. Bob Chandler joined FRA as the band director, and the two struck up an amazing friendship with their shared passion for music and the value they

placed on forming quality relationships with their

students. Mrs. Jewell called their friendship one of the highlights of her entire career.

Mr. Chandler recently reflected on their many years together saying, "Brenda and I began sharing the

FRA music hallway together twenty-three years ago.

Concert preparations, show auditions, and band and choir travel brought us close as colleagues,

and even closer as friends. Every school day begins

F A C U LT Y S P O T L I G H T

69 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

with laughter and ends with even more laughter

and positive reflections of the day. One of the many

benefits of having a classroom and office near Brenda has been hearing and witnessing her interactions

with our students. Brenda loves teaching music and

everyone in her classroom feels this love, but beyond

the music, there are lessons of kindness and teamwork.

I’ve seen countless students grow their confidence and expand their musical abilities under her direction and

encouragement. As a music educator, Brenda sets the bar high and she knows how to guide her students to reach that bar. Numerous superior ratings at regional

and state choir festivals, and beautiful performances in our community, are just a few reflections of her ability as a music educator. I have learned so much from her about believing in students and challenging them to

be their best. She has placed an indelible mark on our department, school, community, and our hearts."

She believes each one of her choirs are like a family;

loving each other, supporting each other, and always bringing out the best in each personality. "The FRA

community is unmatched. It is the most special place where people give all of themselves each and every

day to be a constant for one another,” Mrs. Jewell said.

"Serving FRA has been one of the biggest honors of my life. Working in a place that encourages you to share

your faith and love for Christ has made a huge impact

on who I am as an educator and as a follower of Jesus.

"I HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH

Every day is a new blessing and adventure to embark

FROM HER ABOUT BELIEVING IN

It is a privilege to work in an environment like FRA. upon."

As she looks to the future, Mrs. Jewell is excited to see how FRA’s choral program continues to grow both

in terms of size and talent. She believes the structure and foundation currently in place for the arts allows anything to happen both collectively and for each student individually. "I hope the bar is continually

raised and that my students never stop dreaming of

the greatness they can achieve not only as musicians,

but as human beings," Mrs. Jewell remarked. “My job is to instill confidence in each student, to love them well,

STUDENTS AND CHALLENGING THEM TO BE THEIR BEST. SHE HAS PLACED AN INDELIBLE MARK ON OUR DEPARTMENT, SCHOOL, COMMUNITY, AND OUR HEARTS."

and encourage them to keep reaching for their highest potential." 

- BOB CHANDLER -

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FAC U LTY WHO IN S PIRE

DAVID TUCKER A LEGACY OF LOVING, TEACHING, AND LEADING

C

Coach Tucker began his journey at

FRA 41 years ago. After graduating

from college, he had no idea where he wanted to use his gifts and

interests. With a passion for art, he

didn’t know which direction to take to land him on his feet. After praying and trying to decipher how to kick-start his career, his brother suggested he should look at working at a school.

After deciding that working in education was what God was calling him to, Coach Tucker joined FRA

as the art teacher for first through 12th grade, and

he quickly began to impact the school’s community with his big heart and caring spirit. Dr. Campbell, who was head of school at the time, took Coach

Tucker under his wing and taught him everything

he could. "My relationship with Dr. Campbell was wonderful, and he was like a father figure to me

during my early years as an educator," Tucker said.

"I knew God had a plan for me on this campus."

In addition to being the art teacher for the entire school, Coach Tucker was heavily involved in the athletics program. He started coaching football very early on in his career at FRA, and his love

for coaching grew even stronger after building a

friendship with two men who significantly impacted his life, Coach George Weicker and Coach Ed Zaborowski.

In 1986, he was asked to lead the FRA track and field program. The program quickly became a milestone for his career at FRA. Almost

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F A C U LT Y S P O T L I G H T

immediately, the team saw the fruits of the labor

and determination being poured into the program.

In 1998, Coach Tucker led the track team to its first

State Championship. "The thing I enjoy most about

track is that you get to know each runner, each team, and each coach. Coaching track is about forming

relationships and pushing each runner to be the best that they can be,” Tucker said. Beginning in 2001,

the team had a three-year run of winning the State

Championship title, with the record still being held for the most points scored in a state meet.

More than 20 years later, Coach Tucker is still making a tremendous impact on the lives of our students by continually seeking opportunities to show kindness, love, generosity, and faith.

"Coach Tucker is the epitome of what it means to

be a great role model. From the way he cares about every person around him, to making sure each

student's needs are met, he is the best influence on

me. He never fails to cheer me on and be a constant in my life. It has been an honor to be led by him," said Payton Culp, class of 2022 and track team member.

As a member of the FRA community for over four decades, there are many reasons this place is

special to Coach Tucker including the opportunity to see his daughters grow up here. “I saw how

this place shaped and formed my girls. I saw how FRA impacted who they were and who they were

becoming. Being close to them and getting a hug in the lunchroom everyday are things that were

priceless to me. FRA has been such a great place not only for me, but for my family,” Tucker said.

“I am beyond grateful for FRA, for each memory I have here, and for the opportunities to teach,

coach, and mentor young people while trying to be an example of Christ. I am forever changed by the memories and relationships I’ve made with fellow

faculty and coaches. I am forever changed by each

student I’ve come to know. I did all this for them, as FRA does too,” Coach said. 

"COACH TUCKER IS THE EPITOME OF WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A GREAT ROLE MODEL. FROM THE WAY HE CARES ABOUT EVERY PERSON AROUND HIM, TO MAKING SURE EACH STUDENT'S NEEDS ARE MET, HE IS THE BEST INFLUENCE ON ME. HE NEVER FAILS TO CHEER ME ON AND BE A CONSTANT IN MY LIFE. IT HAS BEEN AN HONOR TO BE LED BY HIM." — PAYTON CULP '22 —

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S P O RTS ACCOLADE S COLLEGE SIGNINGS

SIGNINGS THIS SEASON, FOUR OF OUR STUDENT ATHLETES COMMITTED TO CONTINUING THEIR SPORT AT THE COLLEGIATE LEVEL. WE ARE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THAT CARTER OLIFF, HADLEY MAXWELL, RJ CASEY, AND ALEX BRUNO WILL BE ADVANCING THEIR ATHLETIC CAREERS.

AT H L E T I C S

73 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

ALEX BRUNO BASKETBALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF DALLAS "Alex is a dedicated athlete who gives it everything he has each time he

steps on the court. I have no doubt he will continue to develop and grow

as a player as he continues to push himself to be better every day. Alex is

the kind of player every coach loves­—unselfish, hard working, and displays

a positive attitude. I look forward to watching his growth at the University of Dallas next year."

- John Pierce, Varsity Boys Basketball Head Coach

RJ CASEY BASKETBALL AT CONNECTICUT COLLEGE "I'm incredibly proud of RJ for reaching his goal of playing college

basketball. He has a strong desire to be the best basketball player that he can be, and he has worked extremely hard over the past several years to

become a great player and team leader. Connecticut College is getting an

athlete who is tough, competitive, and determined. I look forward to seeing RJ continue to grow and develop as he moves on to the next level."

- John Pierce, Varsity Boys Basketball Head Coach

HADLEY MAXWELL BASEBALL AT BUCKNELL UNIVERSITY “Hadley is a leader both on and off the field. He always puts his best foot forward to not only bring his best work ethic, but also to bring his best

attitude and positivity. I'm excited to see him continuing his baseball career next year at Bucknell University.”

- Glen Johnson, Varsity Baseball Head Coach

CARTER OLIFF BASEBALL AT MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY “Carter has been an incredible asset to the Panther baseball program. He is a tough and dedicated player who continually encourages his teammates to strive for their best. Our program will miss him next year but we are all excited to see him continue his journey at MTSU.”

- Glen Johnson, Varsity Baseball Head Coach

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S PO RTS ACCOLADE S S P O R TF S A L LARC E CC AO P LADES FA L L R E C A P

JEFFERY VERCHER AT H L E T I C S

45 || 4700 75 4700 Fall/Winter Fall/Winter 2021 2020

JOSIAH JACKSON

FOOTBALL JEFFERY VERCHER TSSAA DII-A Middle Region Specialist of the Year

JOSIAH JACKSON TSSAA DII-AA Middle Region All-Region Second Team and Scholar Athlete Award Recipient JOE CROCKER TSSAA DII-AA Middle Region All-Region Second Team TY CLARK TSSAA DII-AA Second Team All-Region LUKE MASTERSON TSSAA DII-AA Middle Region All-Region Honorable Mention BOBBY COUNCIL TSSAA DII-AA Middle Region All-Region Honorable Mention BEN BRADSHAW TSSAA DII-AA Middle Region All-Region Honorable Mention TAYLOR WILLIAMS TSSAA DII-AA Middle Region All-Region Honorable Mention

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GIRLS GOLF EMILY WILSON Regional Champion Third Place Finish in State Championship

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FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 60

GIRLS SOCCER

HAYDEN MARWILL

INDIVIDUAL HAYDEN MARWILL TSSAA DII-A All-District

ANSLEY CUMMISKEY TSSAA DII-A All-District

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FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 78

VOLLEYBALL OLIVIA DEROCHER First Team All-District KATE SPENCER Second Team All-District ANNA TAKAHASHI All-District Tournament Team

KATE SPENCER

ANNA TAKAHASHI 79 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

SOPHIA GOOCH

MIDDLE SCHOOL TENNIS GIRLS INDIVIDUAL SOPHIA GOOCH #1 Singles Champion

BOYS INDIVIDUAL HUNTER HUMPHREYS #3 Singles Champion

HUNTER HUMPHREYS FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 80

HOMECOMING WEEK

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HOMECOMING WEEK

HOMECOMING WEEK CELEBRATION | Students pre-kindergarten through grade 12

celebrated homecoming week with themed dress days, games and activities, movie night on The Hill, senior greeting, a pep rally and a parade. Our alumni enjoyed a tailgate and the All-Alumni Reunion Party in celebration of the 50th Anniversary.

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L EG ACY S TU DEN T

W

Caroline Dinker

What does FRAmily mean to me? The term FRAmily means so much and something different to everyone here.

Since 1971, FRA has been a place where students find themselves as individuals within a nurturing framework. However, my story has another dimension.

I’ve learned who I am separate from the family history I have here, but I’ve been so grateful for the opportunity to learn more about my family, what they stood for, and how they built such a wonderful school with an even better culture. My grandfather, Bill Bradshaw loved this place more than words could ever say. From his encouraging and accepting nature, to the importance he emphasized on being a family, I think he’d be proud of where FRA is today.

One example that comes to mind of how much effort and enthusiasm my grandfather put into the beginning of FRA is the founding of a football team.

Not only was the first football field laid from sod taken from my grandparents’ side yard, he made sure news of an FRA win traveled fast and far. I was recently reminded of the story of when FRA beat Goodpasture for the first time, that prompted a personal phone call to every name in the directory from my grandfather himself. As I reflect upon this past football season and an end to my cheer career with a win against Goodpasture to secure our spot in the playoffs, it occurred to me that the more things change, the more they stay the same. Enthusiasm and love for an FRA victory has always been a cause for celebration and attention.

This place always brought my grandfather a great deal of joy, and he would be the first to say, he could not have done any of this without my grandmother by his side. I think about how invested she was alongside him as she hosted the first few Spaghetti Suppers.

They both gave all they had to create a family culture on campus. My grandmother has always been someone that’s there for me. Although we never met our grandfather, she tells me how proud he would be of me and my cousins, Ben, Sam, and Allie. She tells me of how well we’re honoring our family through being students here, pushing ourselves to grow, and being invested in this school community, each in different ways.

Through coming to FRA , I’ve had many doors open so I could discover more about my family history. This place doesn’t just connect me to my grandparents and their story here, but to my mom who went here, my dad (’81), my aunt who taught the first three graduating senior classes, my aunt that graduated from middle school, and my uncle who also attended school here.

FRA is my home and my family. It means so much more to me than just being my school. During senior night, when I was up on the Hill and in the middle of the field, I’ve never felt more at peace. The Hill was such a special place to my father, and I could feel him with me that night. I knew he was next to my mom and me in spirit and happy to see me being recognized during my senior year in one of his most beloved places.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS

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"FRA is my home and my family. It means so much more to me than just being my school."

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Of the many FRA traditions, one that comes to mind specifically is Spiritual Emphasis Week. My grandfather was so passionate about Spiritual Emphasis Week, and I can feel him each year it comes around. He loved to serve and had a heart for each person around him. He created Spiritual Emphasis Week for the chance for our unwavering and inclusive community to grow in their faith with the idea of carrying service and a love for Christ outside the FRA bubble.

I can confidently say he would have been so proud of the Turner Fellowship program and how FRA students have the chance to show the love of Jesus through giving back to our community. I was fortunate enough to have been selected as a Turner Fellow this past summer where I was partnered with Fannie Battle Day Home. Ironically, my grandfather had ties with Fannie Battle since he was 16 years old, Christmas caroling for their annual fundraiser. Once again confirming, the more things change, the more they stay the same.

As I go into the second half of my senior year, I hope that the class of 2022 is known as having the ‘FRA Spirit’ and bringing the importance of loving and

85 | 4700 Fall/Winter 2021

supporting each other well to the front of all we do. I know my grandfather would be so proud of this school’s accepting nature that builds on the importance of each student who walks the halls.

When I leave this school, my hope for myself is that I may take a love for Christ, a love for community, and the self confidence that I have developed while here to thrive in an ever-changing world. My wish for FRA’s culture, current and future students, and my younger cousins, is that the school continues to embody the idea from one of my grandfather’s favorite lyrics that, ‘The ground is level at the foot of the cross.’ 

Caroline started at FRA as a fifth grader and is currently a senior. She is a Turner Fellow, an active member of Young Life, cheerleading captain, and a student ambassador.

Both of her parents attended FRA , and she is the granddaughter of Virginia and Bill Bradshaw.

NEW LEGACY STUDENTS FOR 2021-22 ELODIE AND ELOISE BRYANT

Sarah Katherine Givens Bryant ’08

JOHN CAMPBELL

William “Chip” Campbell ’87

MAYA FEEMSTER Philip Feemster

IAN FISHER

Jacqueline Bracken Fisher ’06

MAILLIE FUSON Joseph Fuson ’96

PRINCETON JAULIN

Meredith MacLeod Jaulin

CONNOR JOHNSON

Ashley Jenny Johnson ’98 and Jeremiah Johnson ’98

OLIVIA LASTRA

Courtney Tomich Lastra

WALKER MATHIAS

Heather Osteen Mathias ’97 and Jason Mathias ’97

WITT MAXWELL

Kemp Maxwell ’97 LEGACY SPOTLIGHT

LANDON MERCHAN

Addy Morby Merchan ’07

LUCAS PINKSTON Ashley and Jeremiah Johnson graduated from FRA in 1998. They married in 2005, and their son, Connor, was born in 2011. Ashley recently shared her experience when visiting FRA last year. "I was blown away on our tour with how the school had changed and developed over the years. With all the amazing advancements though, I could 100% tell it still fostered the same family feel and environment that was so special when we were there." We are thrilled Connor joined FRA this fall as a fourth grader.

Welcome to the FRAmily, Connor!

Jon Pinkston ’90

BRADY SCARLETT Andrew Scarlett ’97

ISLA SCHUTT

Kristie Koerner Schutt ’04

GRAY AND MADDING SOUTHALL Kathleen Disspayne ’91

BENNETT SULLIVAN

Ashley Sanders Sullivan ’88

CONLEE THORNE Dan Thorne ’98

ELOISE VANCE

Millicent Van Mol Vance ’95 FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 86

ALUMNI

CLASS NOTES BALLARD BOYD '00 FRANKLIN ROAD ACADEMY

PODCAST The Franklin Road Academy podcast is hosted by David Tucker and Ed Zaborowski and consists of conversations with faculty, alumni, and friends in celebration of our 50th Anniversary. Visit our website to access all episodes or listen anywhere you get your podcasts.

Scan above or visit:

Ballard won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Talk Special (Live) for his work as producer & segment director on Stephen Colbert’s Election Night 2020: Democracy’s Last Stand: Building Back America Great Again Better 2020 on Showtime. He also won a Peabody Award for his work on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on CBS for “combining comedy with genuine goodness at one of our darkest hours."

HAL CATO '83 Hal was recently named Most Admired CEO by the Nashville Business Journal.

Hal has extensive knowledge and experience in both the nonprofit and private sector and has served as CEO of Thistle Farms since 2015.

CHASE GILBERT '07 + ANDREW SOHR '07 Built Technologies, co-founded by Chase Gilbert and Andrew Sohr, reach unicorn-level valuation after raising $125 million for a $1.5 billion valuation.

Built Technologies becomes one of only two tech companies achieving unicorn status in Nashville.

www.FranklinRoadAcademy.com/podcast

CHASE MCCABE '06 Chase was recently announced as the new Program Director/Brand Manager of Nashville's 102.5 The Game. In his new role, he will be responsible for programming strategy and operations of ESPN 102.5 The Game and ESPN 94.9.

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MATT MERCY '07 Matt accepted a job at JJ Pearce High School in Richardson, Texas. He teaches AP economics and serves as the head wrestling coach and defensive back coach for the varsity football team.

MATTIE JACKSON SELECMAN '08 Mattie recently released "Lemons on Friday: Trusting God Through My Greatest Heartbreak" via Thomas Nelson / HarperCollins Christian Publishing.

DR. ASHISH PATEL '05 Dr. Patel was once again named a Top Dentist by Nashville Lifestyles magazine.

“Since opening his practice in 2017, Dr. Patel’s award-winning care has been recognized as best-in-class and earned the title of Nashville’s Top Dentist by Tennessean and Nashville Scene for three consecutive years."

Mark your calendar and join us for the annual Franklin Road Academy

GOLF CLASSIC Monday, September 12 The Governors Club

TYMON MITCHELL '19 As a member of the University of Georgia football team, Tymon won the 2022 NCAA National Championship Football title.

Tymon was awarded the Quinton Lumpkin Football Scholarship and is majoring in Financial Planning.

CRYSTAL WALKER '07 Crystal was recently featured on the Food Network for the Christmas Cookie Challenge. She is known for her beautiful cookie creations at her bakery, Butterfly Bakehouse.

To register or become a sponsor, scan above or visit:

www.FranklinRoadAcademy.com/ Support/Golf-Classic

FranklinRoadAcademy.com | 88

TORIQUE SMITH '14 Torique recently released his 2022 collection for his Lifters Only Club athletic apparel line. Torique also competes in national body-building competitions and placed second overall at the NPC Battle at the River competition.

RYAN CAIN '96 Ryan co-founded Hall of Fame Behavioral Health, an affiliate of The Pro Football Hall of Fame, to provide a simple gateway into behavioral health, mental health, and substance use solutions to support athletes and their families.

PICTURED / Top to bottom, left to right: Abby Wharton Pickney '12 and Patrick Pickney, Mackenzie Bottigi White '00 and Alex White, Andie Rice Davis '11 and Bobby Davis, John Crit Pope '12 and Shannon McCarren Pope, Mariah Canady King '12 and Justin King, and Connor Turpin '10 and Liz Hughes.

IN MEMORY

WEDDINGS MARIAH CANADY ’12 married

MACKENZIE BOTTIGGI ’00

ETHAN DANIELS ’14 passed away

JOHN CRIT POPE ‘12 married

ABBY WHARTON '11 married

WAYNE PILKINTON (father to Denise Jungmichel ’89)

ANDIE RICE ’11 married

CONNOR TURPIN '10 married

Justin King on July 11, 2020.

Shannon McCarren on April 3, 2021.

Bobby Davis on May 21, 2021.

married Alex White on July 14, 2021.

Patrick Pickney on August 14, 2021.

Liz Hughes on September, 4 2021.

September 22, 2021.

passed away September 28, 2021.

LARRY STUMB (father to Florence Chassaignac '95 and Karen White ’87 and) passed away December 8, 2021.

BEVERLY JOHNSON (mother to Monica Tulloss ’81 and Blake Johnson ’86) passed away December 28, 2021.

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BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS KAISSLING AKERS ANDERSON '11 and Max Anderson welcomed Dean Glenn Anderson on September 18, 2021.

TREVOR BASKIN ’11 and Annie Baskin welcomed Nora Kate Baskin on September 29, 2021.

LYNDSEY ALMON KILLINGSWORTH '07 and Sam Killingsworth welcomed Leila Reese Killingsworth on January 11, 2022.

JULIANNE MURPHY LONGWORTH ’09 and Matt Longworth welcomed Tucker Matthew Longworth on July 29, 2021.

WADE MOSS ’09 and Grayson Moss welcomed Margaret Thompson Moss on November 28, 2021.

JENNIFER CROUCH POWERS ’10 and John Powers welcomed Charlotte Steele Powers on March 12, 2021.

CHASE TURPIN '08 and Gena Turpin welcomed Wyatt Austin Turpin on December 13, 2021.

BROOKE KIMBRO VIZARD ’07 and Ross Vizard welcomed Vivian Louise Vizard on May 26, 2021.

JAKE WALLSTEDT ’11 and Lauren Wallstedt welcomed Harper Marie Wallstedt on November 10, 2021.

TYLER HANCOCK RUDESHIEM ‘09 and John Rudeshiem welcomed Joey Rudeshiem in 2021.

PICTURED / Top to bottom, left to right: Harper Marie Wallstedt, Nora Kate Baskin, Dean Glenn Anderson, Vivian Louise Vizard, Margaret Thompson Moss, Wyatt Austin Turpin, Charlotte Steele Powers, Joey Rudeshiem, Leila Reese Killingsworth, and Tucker Matthew Longworth.

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ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS THROUGH THE YEARS

SHARE YOUR UPDATES! Did you recently change careers, get married, or welcome a new baby? Did you win an award or receive recognition?

We want to celebrate the accomplishments and milestones of our alumni! Please share class notes by visiting the alumni section of our website.

www.franklinroadacademy.com/ alumni

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ELIZABETH TURNER ELIZABETH FENTRESS MICHAEL ARMSTRONG TRACEY FELBER RONALD BROOKS FREDRICK FINKE LEE SMITHEY JAMES GRIGGS STACEY MORRISON JENNIFER BASKETTE LAURIE ARMSTRONG NANCY KOPF JEANETTE HOWE TODD HENNINGSEN BETHANY WORKMAN LES GOODALL COURTNEY SANDERS JOHN STARLING SARA MILES MATT COWAN RANIA HELOU MICHELLE AREVALOS MARK WINKER ANN PARRISH TIM VACEK TOMMY FRANCIS WHITNEY POZGAR CARA LUSBY NATHAN SCHEPMAN JASON CLARKE LYNSI TUCKER JESS CORE HILARY DULIN DAN DESMOND

1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1994 1995 1996 1996 1997 1997 1998 1998 1999 1999 2000 2000 2001 2001 2002 2002 2003 2003 2004 2004 2005

ANN MARIE GIDEON NATHAN SANDERS KATHLEEN STRAWN ASHLEY LANCE AUSTIN MARCUM KAITIE MCDONALD MICHAEL BIAGINI LIZ BOYD ANDY WILLIAMS BRIDGET BOWDEN TYLER SMITH MARY FUNK NIK RODEWALK MARIAH CANADY TANNER HANCOCK LAURA DUNCAN DAVID GOODLOE MAGGIE WEEKS T.J. NORRIS OLIVIA NELSON CHAD YOUNG SPENCER MEEKS CAITLYN MANNING JAMIE KENDRICK DAVID CHANDLER HAYLEY FULLER MASON CHAMBLISS LORENA SILVA JACK ARSTA ALLY AXFORD ANDREW KAISER KAILA SCOTT PAUL SPOSAT0

2005 2006 2006 2007 2007 2008 2008 2009 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 2013 2013 2014 2014 2015 2015 2016 2016 2017 2017 2018 2018 2019 2019 2020 2020 2021 2021

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WHY WE GIVE THE SCARLETT FAMILY

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DONOR STORY

DO N O R S TO RY

W

When reflecting on our time as an FRA

With students from pre-kindergarten through grade

family, we immediately think about the

12 all on one campus, our kids have the opportunity to

love, fun, and success we’ve experienced

interact and grow alongside the students they look up to

as a part of this community. FRA’s

the most. We love seeing the joy in our children's eyes

mission, culture, and long-term goals fit perfectly with

when an upper school student swings open their car

our own beliefs and visions. Franklin Road Academy

door for morning drop-off, greets them with a hug, and

has truly succeeded at developing well-balanced and

walks them to class. Our children feel so important being

grounded young men and women, and we’ve seen the

greeted by their role model.

impact first hand as a current legacy family.

The FRAmily culture and unique mission to provide We always dreamed of sending our children to FRA , and

challenging academics in an inclusive Christian

the first time we visited, we were immediately welcomed

community set FRA apart from every other school in the

with an amazing energy from everyone on campus. We

area. We feel blessed to be a part of a community that is

could see how much the teachers loved their students

dedicated to delivering on its mission every day—from

and how they were determined to help them succeed.

the actions of the leadership team to the care and love

FRA is a challenging, yet nurturing environment that

demonstrated by each and every classroom teacher.

encourages our children to be confident, ask questions, take risks, try new things, and even to fail, but to keep

FRA continues to do so much for our family, and we are

moving forward and never give up.

grateful for the opportunity to invest in the future of this school community. There is no investment in the world

Over the last several years, it has been exciting to see

that can match seeing the impact on our students' lives

FRA grow as a community and as a campus. It has been

when they have the chance to code, build robots, train in

incredible to see the transformation from where FRA

a state-of-the-art fitness facility, or pray and learn more

was in the 1980s to where the school is today—with

about God. These experiences and moments are why we

innovation labs in every division, DNA and STEM labs,

give in support of the mission of FRA and why we are so

robotics teams, and the new Weicker Center for Student

proud to be members of this community. 

Life and athletic center.

Andrew graduated from FRA in 1997 and is the incoming chair Over the course of our time as current parents, we’ve

for the Board of Trustees. Jenny is involved with the Franklin

seen many ideas turn into realities. Since the time

Road Academy Parent Association and has served as the chair

Andrew graduated over 20 years ago, to where FRA is

for the School's largest fundraiser, Stars and Guitars. Their three

today, makes us even more excited to see what the next

children, Andrew, Alison, and Brady, are current students in the

20 years will bring for this community.

lower school.

"There is no investment in the world that can match seeing the

impact on our students' lives when they have the chance to code,

build robots, train in a state-of-the-art fitness facility, or pray and learn more about God."

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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 EVENTS FRIDAY, MARCH 4 - 6 Middle School Musical: Frozen Jr. | FRA Theater TUESDAY, APRIL 12 FRA Annual Day of Giving FRIDAY, APRIL 29 - SUNDAY, MAY 1 Upper School Drama | FRA Theater SATURDAY, MAY 7 Jazz Cafe and Arts Reception | Turner Quad SATURDAY, MAY 14 50th Anniversary Golden Hour Celebration Event MONDAY, MAY 16 Retirement Celebration for Brenda Jewell and Ed Zaborowski 5th and 6th Grade Band Concert | Scarlett Family Chapel WEDNESDAY, MAY 18 Spring Choral Concert | Scarlett Family Chapel MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 FRA Golf Classic FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 - SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

Homecoming and Reunion Weekend

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