The Anchor, Spring 2024

+ PLUS P.A. EVENTS CONNECT COMMUNITY CLASS OF 2024 HEADS TO HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATING RETIREE CAROL BUCHMAN Students Explore Theater, Music, and Visual Arts at GSL

First Graders Katherine Cobb Schneider, Johnny Collier, Chase Dunlap, and Mica Lanfranco share their Easter art creations.

About the Cover

At GSL student actors and crew members from fourth through eighth grade stage two productions in McClure Hall every year. Flanked here by the cast members of Once Upon a Mattress: Youth Edition, Sixth Grader Lilly Obasuyi radiates joy in her role as Princess Winifred in the school’s fall production.

Ben Barksdale, President

Kathleen Behnke, Vice-President

Katrina Sanford, Secretary

Jackie Butts, Assistant Secretary

Simon Wadsworth, Treasurer

Lauren Taylor, Assistant Treasurer

Paul Morris, Past President

Emily Callahan

Natalie Davis

Kate Durbin

Linda Khumalo

King

Nix

Sappington

Somerville

Head of School

Managing Editor Marci Woodmansee

Contributors

Mackay Lee Kate Shelton

Photography

Photo by Jeff White

Dr. Andy Surber

Dear Families,

After attending this year's fall theater performance, a particular moment of the show continues to resonate with me. During the finale and curtain call, the atmosphere was electric. The audience erupted into cheers, students shouted out congratulations, and the cast graciously took their final bows. Yet, what truly stood out was what happened when the house lights came up.

After the final bow, a group of students in the audience rushed to the stage to congratulate their classmates – exchanging high fives, jumping with excitement, and even chest-bumping actors in jubilation. It was a celebration reminiscent of triumphant victories, and in that moment, I could easily see the deep connections our students share and their unwavering hope for success for each other. Perhaps even more significant than the performance itself is how these students as a group recognized and celebrated each other’s achievement.

Encouraging each other – and being there for both the highs and the lows, through thick and thin – is part of what forges the lifelong friendships for which GSL is known. This happens here often, helping us build belonging and the feeling of community. We all want to belong to something bigger than ourselves, and the opportunity to work toward this daily on our campus is special. Our sense of belonging reinforces our deep love for the school and its community as a whole.

GSL is known for its well-rounded graduates, individuals who excel academically while also valuing art, music, drama, and more. It is through these creative experiences that students develop understanding of process, product, and how the arts can enhance achievement in every academic area.

As you read this wonderful issue of The Anchor and our cover story on the arts, I hope you, like me, will see the value in the well-rounded GSL experience!

Break a leg,

Andy Surber, Ed.D. Head of School

Fifth Grader Jack McKee and castmates celebrate their performance at curtain call for Once Upon a Mattress: Youth Edition

Ben Barksdale

Dear GSL Community,

Whenever I am asked how our family came to the decision to send our daughter and son to GSL, amongst the numerous reasons I provide, I make it a point to mention how GSL students are almost always characterized as being incredibly well-rounded.

At GSL, in addition to offering a coed environment that promotes numerous character-building traits, we provide a wide array of important programs and activities outside of the classroom, all of which play key roles in supporting our primary goal of academic excellence.

Just consider the following:

• ACE & Enrichment: During our after-school program, across all ages, we offer a range of enrichment opportunities. Just to name a few in our current Spring 2024 program – Craft Creations, Creative Movement, Karate, Kidokinetics –there are many more, offering something for everyone to enjoy!

• Athletics: At the Middle School level, throughout the school year, we offer 13 team sports opportunities to compete (and cheer) for GSL. We pride ourselves in having a student body with very high participation in various sports, as well as off-the-charts school spirit!

• Class Trips: Beginning in 4th grade, students go on year-end class trips – exploring nature or visiting iconic American cities like Chicago and New Orleans. You will regularly hear our older alumni sharing memories from these great trips.

• 8th Grade Internships: This program continues to be a hallmark for our 8th grade students, when they spend three days in the “real world” putting the critical-thinking and problem-solving skills they’ve developed at GSL to good use. As this program continues to flourish in its 17th year, we remain grateful for the fantastic opportunities local and regional employers provide our oldest students.

I mention the programs above as they are all key pieces of what help identify the GSL experience – but I also want to spotlight how our students are being shaped in the areas of art, music, and theater.

• Around seemingly every corner at GSL, you’ll find art decorating the walls. For me, as I periodically walk through our hallways, I’m always amazed at the creativity and talent of our students. Led by our teachers at Miss Lee’s Preschool, by Mrs. Chahal and Ms. Buchman in Lower School, and by Mrs. Schaffler in Middle School, we have an excellent team in place to help our children develop artistic skills and, every bit as important, express themselves through art.

• Working directly with SK-6th grade students, Mr. Jensen helps provide our children wonderful experiences in music – validated by grade-level performances that are always very entertaining and showcase all our students are learning about music from around the world. With his expertise and specialized background in Orff instruction, Mr. Jensen is someone we’re extremely fortunate to have as part of our beloved community.

• Last and surely not least, it is well-known that the GSL Performing Arts program is a star! Led with passion by Ms. Reddick, the program includes both Fall and Spring theatrical performances as well as an annual performing arts lab, and a campus chapter of the Thespian Society. This is another aspect of GSL that enables our students to be creative, build confidence, and simply have fun!

I could go on at length sharing the many opportunities we have and will continue to offer beyond academic work in the classroom. I am so grateful for the memories our children and families are making as part of being a GSL Saint – it all seems to blend perfectly into a long line of well-prepared, well-rounded individuals. Truly amazing!

Sincerely,

Ben Barksdale President, Board of Trustees

CAMPUS LIFE

Celebrating Black History Month

We held a special All-School Chapel titled "Echoes & Harmonies of History" during Black History Month. This inspiring and inclusive celebration brought Preschoolers through eighth graders together and included vignettes from the civil rights movement and reflections on African American contributions to our culture. Dancing, music, and song made this a joyous occasion that we hope will become an annual tradition. Preschool Assistant Teacher Jeanette Walton and Head of Preschool Cynthia Hill are pictured here with Third Grader Layla Butts and Fifth Grader Angel Bowen, who participated in the performance along with other classmates.

PRESCHOOL

Hometown Heroes

Louise McDermott dons firefighter gear and Laura James McDermott dresses up as a police officer as part of the Little Lukers’ annual unit celebrating community helpers.

Peer Partnerships

Junior Kindergartners Josephine French and Ruthie Fingerhut enjoy a book with Second Grader Naomi Burton (center) during Read Across America Day.

Every Day’s a

Holiday

We rolled Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras into one this year – and Little Lukers Bayne Slatery and Rosa Hendry didn’t mind a bit!

STEM Starts Early

Every year seventh grade science students visit the Preschool’s Outdoor Classroom to transfer worms from their lab habitats into the garden soil. PreKindergartner Evie Muller shows Zoe Pretzer what she dug up. PKers Gabriel Moreira and Paul Langley watch closely to see what Hayes Smith uncovers.

LOWER SCHOOL

Bright Ideas

Be Kind Whenever Possible

In February we celebrated Random Acts of Kindness Day, a project spearheaded by our library as one of several literacy-based events planned for students this year. Senior Kindergartners made cards for residents of local retirement communities. Pictured here are Diana Murphy, Avery Gross, Sebastian Malone, and SK Teacher Reem Rassoul.

Fourth Grader Bennett Jancelewicz and classmates researched African American inventors during Black History Month and showcased their findings for fellow students.

Favorite Traditions

Fourth Graders

Caroline Bridge, Ali Calzia, Celia Sanders, and Phoebe Owen enjoy refreshments at the annual FatherDaughter Dance.

All the Right Moves

First Graders Claudia Flechas, Nate Muller, Thomas Stephenson, Cannon Myers, Raphael Brunotte, Ava Johnson, and Haskell Lowery get in position for the annual Hip Hop Celebration. This performance is choreographed annually by Preschool Fun & Fitness Teacher Robert Ward.

Celebrating Differences with Love

Third

100th Day Fun, left to right: Senior Kindergartner Nina Terry; First Graders show off their creative 100th Day hats; Second Graders Isla Sheffer and Katherine Robinson build a 100-cup wall.

Graders invited Memphis author Alison Nenon to Celebration in February to read her book Alfie Sees Love

CAMPUS LIFE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Serving Others

Fifth Graders led another successful food drive, collecting thousands of cans to help those in need through the Mid-South Food Bank and Church Food Pantry. Helping sort cans: Elliot Bagwell, Ella Grace Billings, Charlie Willson, Beck Whitaker, Joseph Gettys, Jonathan Young, Franklin Barton, Luca Flechas, Gavin Warren, Jennings Callahan, Jake Breen, Louise Behnke, Lyda Scrugham, and Jordyn Coleman

Exploring Other Cultures

Sixth Grade history students held a World’s Fair event to celebrate their research on Africa, complete with traditional cuisine. From left, Mary Elizabeth Fisher, Luke Bresee, Crosby High, Cameron Gibbs, Aristen Polk, Jack Irvine, Journey Rounds, Julia Laizure, Lilly Obasuyi, and Alice Moore

Saints on Stage

Middle Schoolers put on an incredible spring play, Saints’ Stories, created from stories (and camp letters!) submitted by GSL faculty members. Cast members included Fifth Grader Jake Breen, Eighth Grader Talat Thomas, Fourth Grader Ali Calzia, Eighth Grader Shaniah Tucker, Fourth Grader Karrington Gardner, and Fifth Graders Rylee Simelton and Jonathan Young.

Sharing the Love

Valentine’s Day fell on Ash Wednesday this year, a solemn day in the Episcopal Church calendar, but the Holiday Club spread some cheer by creating valentines for every Middle School student and staff member. Front row: Notley Maddox, Luca Flechas, Angel Bowen, Ella Hulett, Elizabeth Robinson, Louise Behnke; back row: Lyda Scrugham, Mimi Beasley, Austin Smith, Lyla Rixon, Claire Warner, Zoe Johnson, Hayes Smith, and Libby Behnke

Dogpound Rules

Eighth Graders Emerson Callahan and Elizabeth Thompson show their Saints spirit.

INCREDIBLE INTERNSHIPS INSPIRE IN 17TH YEAR OF

PROGRAM

The 8th Grade Class of 2024 completed 3-day internships at businesses and nonprofits in Memphis and beyond. This fantastic capstone program is now in its 17th year at GSL! Students get a glimpse of the real world and learn countless lessons that can't be taught in the classroom. We are so grateful to all the outstanding organizations who partner with GSL in hosting these bright students every year.

Edward Scrugham served up some of Memphis’ best ribs during his stint at the Rendezvous.

Grant Barger helped fans make some noise while studying sports promotion during his internship with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Courtland Morris learned about the workings of our government with Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris.

Zoey High spent time on set during her sports promotion internship at Grind City Media.

Karter Ambrose learned basic medical techniques for treating broken bones during his work at OrthoSouth.

Christopher Price learned about great burgers and customer service during his restaurant industry experience at Belly Acres.

Aiden Walker explored the world of concert and event promotion during his internship with C3Presents in Austin, Texas.

George Leslie learned about rock climbing and the business of nonprofits during his work at Memphis Rox.

Beatrix Jackson helped children tap into their creative side during her work with The Art Project.

Corinne Richardson gave some deserving pups extra love during her internship with the Memphis Humane Society.

Porter Martin traveled farther than a GSL intern has ever gone before – flying to Switzerland to learn about the retail music industry at Leadmusic guitar store in Geneva.

Excited about th e

Arts

Every student gets the chance to develop creative talents at GSL

By Marci Woodmansee ’83, Director of Communications

Grace-St. Luke’s is recognized as a school that builds extremely kind, well-rounded students - many of whom go on to excel in a variety of creative pursuits. One of the main reasons for that is our belief in the importance of the arts. We have a proud history of art, music, and theatrical instruction at GSL, and our fine arts program is not an elective choice, but an important component of every single student’s education.

Early art and music instruction begins at the Preschool in age-appropriate forms through classroom activities and special subject teaching. It begins to take more defined shape as part of regular curriculum instruction in Lower School, and evolves even further in Middle School. Veteran teachers Leslie Reddick and Carol Buchman have been sharing their gifts in the performing and visual arts for more than 20 years at GSL. Braden Jensen and Lee Schaffler joined the school as music and art teachers in 2020, followed shortly thereafter by alumna Anna Chahal ’00 as a co-teacher for Lower School art.

With their wide range of expertise and skills, passion and commitment, GSL’s fine arts teachers continue to inspire students every day! Here’s a glimpse of what they are working on in their classrooms each year.

SK-6TH GRADE MUSIC

Music Teacher Braden Jensen still expresses amazement when he thinks about beginning his professional teaching career at GSL at the start of the pandemic. “We couldn’t even sing that year!” he says. Thankfully, much has changed in four years, and the evolution of the GSL music program is something that makes him quite proud today.

With an undergraduate degree and pending master’s in Orff Schulwerk, Jensen’s objective is helping students build the skills needed to become good musicians. The Orff approach to teaching music is developmental, combining music, movement, drama, and speech, and children begin with what they do instinctively: play.

“When I came here some of our instruments hadn’t been used in a while,” Jensen says. “We brought those out, figured out what we could play six feet apart, and began focusing on rhythm.”

Second Graders Colette Bartosch, Maggie Maddox, Delta Flynt, Gustavo Arroyo, Isla Sheffer, Tia Sanford, and Stan Ibled wait for their cue to begin.

“

USING MUSIC THEY ALREADY LOVE IS THE BEST WAY TO REACH THEM.”

A trumpet player since sixth grade, Jensen’s own musical direction came into focus at Houston Middle School and High School where he began performing in state ensembles, and at the University of Memphis when he participated in marching band and more as part of his degree requirements. As our students know, he can also play accordion. “It’s my fun instrument; I know it well enough to play Happy Birthday at Celebration Chapel!”

As Jensen now guides students through singing, playing, movement, and other activities, they learn everything from rhyme to rhythm to folk dance and more. Each grade level performs in the spring for their families, and the performances vary from year to year – this spring, for example, second graders did a Wild West-themed program. “Some songs I keep on the roster every year, because they’re so good for teaching a concept,” Jensen says, “but I also like to mix it up!”

To support his teaching curriculum, Jensen has enlarged the complement of instruments at GSL, many of which had been here for 30+ years. “Some of our instruments still had ‘Built in West Germany’ labels, so we’ve had them since before the Berlin Wall came down!” he says. He has added a number of drums and percussion instruments, and hopes to purchase more contrabass bars to ultimately complete an octave set.

Jensen began teaching fifth and sixth graders last year upon Head of Middle School Ellen Hendry’s request. The focus for this age group is on playing rather than singing, with an emphasis on creation and improvisation. Performances are held for parents every trimester; each features student-created work, whether it be elements composed in class, or improvised melody or rhythm during performance.

Jensen’s first class of senior kindergartners are now third graders, and he’s enjoying seeing their

progression as musicians. “Every single year I think, what can I try this year? Personally, I like jazz music, but this summer I’m doing an Orff master class on modern pop music. That’s not usually on my playlist, but my students love it, and using music they already love is the best way to reach them. I want to keep things interesting for all of us!”

Orff Instruments at GSL

• Xylophones

• Glockenspiels

• Metallaphones

• Contrabass Bars

Other Percussion

• Tubanos

• Hand Drums

• Rhythm Sticks

• Triangles

• Caxixi

• Gankogui

• Vibraslaps

• Tambourines

Sixth Grader Aristen Polk practices on the soprano glockenspiel for Music Teacher Braden Jensen.

Lower School Art Teacher Carol Buchman works with First Graders Jack Buckner and Ivy Aleman.

LOWER SCHOOL ART: SK-4TH GRADE

Lower School students have enjoyed instruction from two inspiring teachers over the past two yearslong-time instructor Carol Buchman, who has taught art at GSL since 1997, and alumna Anna Chahal ’00, who joined the team in 2022. With a variety of projects that includes everything from printmaking to paper-mache, students at GSL embark on a multimedia program in an airy, colorful space adorned with art and a variety of art objects for visual inspiration.

artists – from Van Gogh to Basquiat – in hopes of reaching each child with something that will inspire. There’s often an interdisciplinary component, with projects supporting or enhancing learning and research going on in another subject area, such as history.

“We aim to develop creative problem solvers and visually literate children who are not intimidated by the creative process,” Chahal explains. She and Buchman help demystify that process through simple instruction in the basic elements of art, and by giving students as much

“Kind and authentic individuals who can successfully and fearlessly share their perspective with the world are the artists we need.”

“I can’t imagine a nicer space than we have now,” says Buchman, who was present for the 2010 move from the smaller original art rooms in Bratton and Morton Halls to a spacious new home in the Anchor Center, which includes a pottery kiln, ample storage shelving, and connecting access between the Lower and Middle School art classrooms.

The Lower School art program is designed to introduce a wide range of materials, art techniques, and

leeway as possible to make some of their own artistic choices.

“We learn a lot, explore a lot, and try a lot in here,” Buchman says with a smile. “I will have a learning objective and parameters, but I want to accommodate their artistic expression. Tidy and skillful isn’t always the most imaginative. Sometimes I do have to get them to walk and talk me through their work to know what they’re thinking, and then I can say, ‘Okay!’”

She and Chahal are also well aware that one student’s greatest joy may be another’s biggest fear. “When we do paper-mache, I’ve had kids look at me and say, ‘This was the best day of my life!’ while others go, ‘Ew!’” Buchman laughs.

“Yes! The feel of some art supplies isn’t for everybody,” Chahal adds. “Clay and pastels, I’m looking at you! But all kids love to create! Students respond differently to things, and we try to differentiate accordingly. I love teaching students about my favorite artists, and working on collage projects that combine their own drawings with outside images. Learning about artists allows us to explore history and how certain individuals literally taught the world how to see things differently. This combination increases the likelihood of each student connecting with the subject matter.”

Both teachers know that what each child sees, and creates, is naturally going to differ, which is okay. “You’re not going to get cookie cutter work here,” Buchman says. “But hopefully every child will have been invested, and maybe even inspired!”

Buchman and Chahal fill the long arts hallway year-round with an everchanging display of students’ work. The ultimate goal is to be sure every child begins to grasp the value of art and creativity. “It’s important that students understand the real world application of art and its impact on daily life,” Chahal says. “Kind and authentic individuals who can successfully and fearlessly share their perspective with the world are the artists we need.”

Lower School Art Projects

• Drawing

• Paper-Mache

• Printmaking

• Tempera & Watercolor Painting

• Clay Sculpture

• Collage

• Batik

• Recyclables

• Tie-Dye

• Puppets

* For more on Carol Buchman, who is retiring at the end of this year, see page 21.

Senior Kindergartner Callum Cunningham proudly displays a pencil drawing.

PERFORMING ARTS: MIDDLE SCHOOL

If you know Leslie Reddick, you know how passionate she is about the importance of the arts at GSL. The longtime teacher joined the Saints team in 1995 and since then has helped countless Middle Schoolers increase their confidence by improving their performing skills. She’s also made her mark every year by staging not one, but two major productions, oftentimes with a double cast that allows more students the opportunity to participate.

“I love what I do!” Reddick says. What she does each day in her dedicated rehearsal space is teach students how to speak well and how to move their bodies effectively. Fifth and sixth graders begin this process with oral interpretation and creative movement.

“We work with poetry, short stories, songs, and psalms,” she says. “There’s a lot of creativity involved.”

As students move into seventh grade, they research specific periods of Western theater from ancient Greece to the 20th Century. They polish performance skills by creating slideshows of the research and acting out assigned scenes.

In eighth grade, they create their Chapel Talks, reflecting on important moments during their time at GSL and preparing to present their

thoughts in front of all their peers during All-School Chapel.

And on top of what is taught in class, Reddick provides incredible extracurricular training opportunities via a performance lab and via two major productions staged annually in McClure Hall that Middle Schoolers and fourth graders can audition for or serve as crew members. She’s put on blockbuster shows like Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr. with a cast and crew of 60, as well as smaller,

difficult, but they grow from it. People underestimate kids so much. I’ve never believed we shouldn’t challenge them. Every single time they rise to the challenge.”

Reddick’s cast and crew members continue to pursue performing arts in high school, and she goes to see nearly every single production (see page 30!). Some continue to perform in college, and some have made it their career. For many, Reddick says, performing arts at GSL served as

“ People underestimate kids so much… I’ve never believed that we shouldn’t challenge them.”

more challenging works like Gettin’ Cheeky with Chekhov and I Never Saw Another Butterfly. GSL students have acted in and helped produce The Wiz, Into the Woods, Seussical and more. Most recently, a cast and crew of 27 students brought to life Saints’ Stories, personal vignettes submitted by current faculty and staff, thoughtfully scripted and staged by Reddick.

“We do work here at GSL that our students would not do at other schools,” Reddick says. “I mean, who thinks of letting Middle Schoolers do Chekhov? We’ve done seven Shakespeare plays here. It’s

a transformative experience where they found their home. “It’s a safe space for the kids who want to do this quality work, and I’m so proud of them. It’s a community within a community.”

Performing Arts Projects

5th: Oral Interpretation

6th: Creative Movement & Dance

7th: History of Theater

8th: Chapel Talks

4th-8th: Fall & Spring Productions

5th-8th: Winter Performance Lab

Saints’ Stories cast members Angel Bowen, Ella Hulett, Isabella Fundo, Julia Martin, Alison Morris, Jack McKee, Jonathan Young, Rylee Simelton, Karrington Gardner, Waverly McKenna, and Caroline Bowden

MIDDLE SCHOOL ART

When students begin their four-year course in Middle School Art with teacher Lee Schaffler, they learn basic drawing skills and how to see the world as an artist. As their drawings come to life through the addition of light and dark values, they often have an a-ha realization.

"When they learn how to shade a sphere by creating highlights and shadows and then apply those skills to their dessert projects, they see their artwork go from looking flat to appearing three-dimensional,” she says. “It makes them feel like accomplished artists!"

The chance to spark Middle Schoolers' creativity drew Schaffler from a volunteer position overseeing all the Anchor Auction art projects into full-time classroom instruction, when former art teacher Diane Glueck retired in 2020. Her philosophy centers on giving all students the opportunity to experience success in making a creative work.

“Art isn’t a true elective here – as it would likely be at a larger public junior high – everyone takes it. We have some kids who practice art every day at home and show up with their own art supplies; for others, it’s not their thing. But I want all of them to feel confident about what they make in art class. I design projects so that regardless of natural ability, every student can be successful.”

To provide a varied, enriching experience for everyone, Schaffler introduces different media and offers lots of instruction in basic drawing and painting techniques to build confidence. This year, her sixth graders got very excited about zendoodles – a repeated meditative patterning project.

“The class was completely silent for two weeks, they were so into it!” she laughs. “When kids really get into a project, it becomes one of my favorites.”

“To see their work on display, and find confidence in that – that feels very good.”

Schaffler also delights in seeing how our students further their artistic pursuits in high school – a fulfillment of natural talent as well as a culmination of creative expression that got its spark at GSL.

“We love to see our graduates winning Scholastic Gold Keys and taking art at the AP level in their high schools,” Schaffler says. “I think it validates our philosophy of keeping

“ I want all of my students to feel confident… [and] be successful."

Another favorite is the landscape project she created her first year at GSL. Inspired by vintage Works Progress Administration National Park posters, the project is one Schaffler classifies as “tra-digital.” Students choose a dream destination photo, learn the grid method to transfer it to a board, paint the landscape, and then create a digital art poster to advertise the destination.

A highlight of each Middle School art trimester is the culminating art show, which gives students the chance to experience having their work showcased in the Anchor Center.

“It gives me so much joy to see them showing their work to their families, and being proud of it,” Schaffler says.

art as a required course for all of our Middle Schoolers – it supports their overall growth!”

Middle School Art Projects

5th: Drawing and Oil Pastels

6th: Colored Pencils, Perspective, Using Compasses and Rulers; Walter Anderson Auction Project

7th: Printmaking

8th: Painting (Watercolor and Tempera) and Dream Destination

Posters; Pop Art-inspired Auction Project

Fifth Graders Julia Martin, William Pace, Joseph Gettys, Notley Maddox, and Jonathan Vance proudly display what they learned about value in their sphere sketches.

Seventh Grader Tehani Kuo with her original print creation

CELEBRATING STUDENT ARTISTS THROUGH ANNUAL CONTEST

By Brenda Berry, Director of Advancement

The 2021-22 school year was interesting for many schools. While still contending with the COVID-19 pandemic, school communities worked hard to creatively bring some normalcy, along with some new offerings, to school life. That's when GSL decided to launch its first Christmas Card Student Art Contest.

The rules are simple: All GSL students – from youngest to oldest – are invited to participate. Each contestant who requests an art packet gets a few weeks to sketch out their masterpiece, putting on paper their very own vision of what would make a great Christmas card for GSL. All submissions are presented anonymously to a panel of judges, who then select a winning piece for the

front of the card, and oftentimes, additional winners for the inside and back cover art as well.

After three years of this project and more than 25 percent of the student body participating, it is clear that students enjoy this fun contest and the chance to have their artwork selected to represent GSL at the holidays. And all contestants are celebrated, as every art submission is featured in a video that is shared with the entire GSL community before the winter break.

We love celebrating the incredible work of our budding artists at GSL!

Second Graders Gustavo Arroyo and Andy Shehan with some of the Lower School art on display in the Anchor Center

Eighth Graders Milo Jacobs and Karter Ambrose work on a color assignment in their Middle School arts block.

2023 Card by Zoe Pretzer ’25

2022 Card by Mila Douglas ’26

2021 Card by Eldon Earnshaw ’26

Eighth Graders Shaniah Tucker, Talat Thomas, and Finley Carter in Once Upon a Mattress: Youth Edition at GSL

LEGACY LUKERS: CONTINUING THE SAINTS TRADITION

We are pleased to recognize the seven legacy members of the Class of 2024, and extend our special thanks to their alumni parents for continuing the Saints tradition and choosing GSL! We asked these students and their parents to reflect on their time here for this annual legacy feature. Here’s what they had to say about their years as a Saint!

SARAH JORDAN HOUSEAL ’24

Earliest GSL memory: Meeting Lucy, one of my best friends, on the first day of school in the PK Dandy Lions classroom

Favorite class: Latin

Favorite extracurricular activity: Volleyball

Favorite Anchor Cafeteria dish: Pizza. I usually bring my lunch though!

Best book you ever read at GSL: The Outsiders

Favorite GSL memories: The Italian Dinner and the 7th grade trip

What makes GSL an Anchor for Life for you? The community and atmosphere – my friendships started here. Without GSL I would not have some of the people I love most!

What will you miss the most here? My friends and teachers

MILO JACOBS ’24

Earliest GSL memory: Mrs. Meg dressing up as a witch in the Daring Dinosaurs classroom

Favorite class: 7th grade English

Favorite extracurricular activity: Basketball

Best book you ever read at GSL: The Outsiders

Favorite GSL memories: Team basketball camp trips to Harding and Lipscomb

What makes GSL an Anchor for Life for you? The relationships I made that I will carry with me into adulthood

What will you miss the most here? The community and how connected I feel to the school

JOHN HOUSEAL ’91

Grades attended at GSL: SK-6th

Favorite class: The late Wesley Emerson’s music class – all the misfits and I joined the bell choir and we rocked it!

Favorite teacher: My mama! (GSL former Kindergarten teacher Marcella Houseal)

Favorite extracurricular: Baseball

Favorite GSL cafeteria item: The artificial cheese flat pizzas

Funniest GSL memory: Sex education with Coach Schrupp. I don’t know how he got stuck with that job.

Why you chose GSL for your child: Community

How has GSL been an Anchor for Life for your family? I still talk to and hang out with all of my GSL friends, and so does Foster ’21. The friends you make at GSL are friends you’ll have forever – no matter where you go to high school or college –Lukers for Life.

ELEANOR WHITE JACOBS ’93

Grades attended at GSL: SK-1st

Favorite class: Art

Favorite teacher: Bobbie Moore

Favorite extracurriculars: I loved our field trips, especially picking cotton in Arkansas.

Favorite GSL memory: The loud and wild pep rallies that were even better than ours in high school

Why you chose GSL for your child: We moved back to Memphis and it was walking distance from our home. This is our 16th year with a child at GSL and walking to and from school, sports, and events with other students and families is so unique to GSL.

How has GSL been an Anchor for Life for your family? At GSL, students don't just connect with classmates, but also with their siblings, parents, grandparents, and extended family. The Luker community goes beyond the students who attend.

* Alumni are identified by the year of the class cohort they would have graduated with at GSL, even if they left before their final year.

LEVI JOHNSON ’24

Earliest GSL memory: I remember pushing Courtland down the slide in PK.

Favorite class: English

Favorite extracurricular activity: Golf

Favorite Anchor Cafeteria dish: I bring my lunch every day.

Best book you ever read at GSL: Unbroken

Favorite GSL memory: Racing Courtland to school every day in 5th grade

What makes GSL an Anchor for Life for you? The relationships I build here with my friends

What will you miss the most here? My friends and the memories I make every day with them

PORTER MARTIN ’24

Earliest GSL memory: Riding tricycles in pre-kindergarten

Favorite class: Latin

Favorite extracurricular activity: Soccer

Favorite Anchor Cafeteria dish: Nothing

Favorite GSL memory: Chicago class trip

What makes GSL an Anchor for Life for you? It is where I grew up and made friends, connections and memories.

What will you miss the most here? My friends

KELLY GAULT MARTIN ’92

Grades attended at GSL: 8th-9th

Favorite class: English

Favorite teacher: Joy Rice

Favorite extracurriculars: Cheer, Yearbook Staff, and Honor Council

Favorite GSL cafeteria item: Pizza Day

Favorite GSL memory: 9th Grade Nantahala rafting trip

Why you chose GSL for your child: Coed, community, advanced academic opportunities

How has GSL been an Anchor for Life for your family? GSL School has been a true anchor for my family. First, by employing my mother Tina Gault for 20+ years as a science and math teacher. My husband and I both attended Middle School at GSL, and both our children are currently at GSL. GSL Church also continues to be an anchor for our family in the past, present, and future.

ALBERT JOHNSON ’89

Grades attended at GSL: JK-9th

Favorite class: Art

Favorite teacher: Coach Lass

Favorite extracurriculars: Class trips

Favorite GSL cafeteria item: Brought my lunch every day!

Funniest or favorite GSL memory: Being taken to the new Snowden Field during P.E. class to lay pallets of sod (See photo below)

Why you chose GSL for your child: We live in Midtown and wanted a coed school for Levi and Beklin ’25 to attend together. Plus, my experience at GSL was great.

How has GSL been an Anchor for Life for your family? I am still in touch with many of the GSL students of my era. I imagine and hope that will be the case with Levi and Beklin. Lukers for Life!

Snowden Field, circa 1986

ERIC MARTIN ’84

Grades attended at GSL: 1st & 5th-8th

Favorite class: Latin

Favorite teacher: Richard Ellis

Favorite extracurricular: Chess club

Favorite GSL cafeteria item: Absolutely nothing :)

Favorite GSL memory: Camping and rappelling trip in Middle Tennessee

Why you chose GSL for your child: Academic reputation, small class sizes, educational philosophy, community and culture

How has GSL been an Anchor for Life for your family? Grace-St. Luke's is definitely like a family anchor for us, connecting different generations. It's where I, my wife, and now our kids got a great education, laying the foundation for our personal and academic development. Our collective time at GSL has created a strong bond of shared experiences and history, making it a significant part of our family story. It shows how much a school can shape not just individuals, but entire families.

EDWARD SCRUGHAM ’24

Earliest GSL memory: Playing on the Preschool playground

Favorite class: Spanish

Favorite extracurricular activity: Basketball

Favorite Anchor Cafeteria dish: Pizza

Best book you ever read at GSL: To Kill a Mockingbird

Favorite GSL memory: 7th grade class trip

What makes GSL an Anchor for Life for you? The people, the teachers, and the atmosphere

What will you miss the most here? My friends and basketball

ELIZABETH THOMPSON ’24

LAUREN LANGSTON SCRUGHAM ’92

Grades attended at GSL: SK-9th

Favorite class: Mrs Gafford’s art history class in 9th grade

Favorite teacher: Tough… there were lots… I can't answer!

Favorite extracurriculars: Cheerleading, basketball, running through the halls

Favorite GSL cafeteria item: The strange square pizza, I guess… I wasn't a fan of in-house eating.

Favorite GSL memories: Biloxi and Chicago class trips, Bye Bye Birdie, all basketball trips, and Father Chapman!

Why you chose GSL for your child: Teachers, families, community, Midtown. There was never another option for my kids. Sold since '92.

How has GSL been an Anchor for Life for your family? In every way! From Langston ’21 starting in 2011 through Edward and unto Lyda ’27, this school has been love, nurture, stability, guidance and our anchor through it all. Grateful for every moment and year! Truly GSL has shaped us in a beautiful way.

Earliest GSL memory: Sewing the anchor pillow on my first day of school in SK

Favorite class: Spanish

Favorite extracurricular activity: Volleyball and photography

Favorite Anchor Cafeteria dish: I don't eat in the cafeteria.

Best book you ever read at GSL: Les Miserables

Favorite GSL memory: Mrs. Binder's 7th grade science class

What makes GSL an Anchor for Life for you? The teachers and my friends

What will you miss the most here? My friends that are not going to the same school as me

LILY WOODMANSEE ’24

Earliest GSL memory: Playing on the Preschool swing set

Favorite class: Mrs. Binder’s 7th grade science class

Favorite extracurricular activity: Basketball and soccer

Favorite Anchor Cafeteria dish: I’ve always brought my lunch, but I love the Oreos.

Best book you ever read at GSL: The Summer I Turned Pretty

Favorite GSL memory: 7th grade field day

What makes GSL an Anchor for Life for you? The kind people that I've met here

What will you miss the most here? The teachers

BEN THOMPSON ’91

Grades attended at GSL: SK-5th

Favorite class: Anything involving science

Favorite extracurricular activity: Recess, of course!

Favorite cafeteria item: The little square pizza slices

Earliest GSL memory: Walking up to the door of my kindergarten class with my mom on the first day

How has GSL been an Anchor for Life for your family? When I went to GSL, times were so much simpler. Life wasn't as crazy as it is now. But the school provides a great social and educational foundation.

SCOTT WOODMANSEE ’79

Grades attended at GSL: 7th-9th

Favorite class: History and Math

Favorite teacher: Mr. Scully and Mrs. Abernathy

Favorite extracurricular activities: Basketball, football, and baseball

Favorite cafeteria item: Ice cream nutty buddy – had one every day

Favorite memory: Basketball trip to Orlando and Disney World

Why I chose GSL for my children: I appreciate the closeness of the students at GSL. GSL has a family atmosphere to it… seems like all the kids know each other. I also believe the environment at GSL makes for an easier transition to high school. The kids are well-adjusted.

How has GSL been an Anchor for Life for your family: Our family has a long history at GSL. We met some of our closest friends here. Our family is proud that the Athlete of the Year award is named after my father – my daughters’ Ella ’19 and Lily’s grandfather. It’s going to be sad when Lily leaves. We will always support GSL and hope the school continues to prosper.

TAKING THE NEXT STEPS

We are so proud of our GSL Class of 2024, and we wish you all the best as you begin your high school careers in August. You will be greatly missed! #lukersforlife

Shaniah Tucker

Karter Ambrose

Grant Barger

Milo Jacobs

Ty Merrell

George Leslie

Corinne Richardson

Austin Smith

Zoey High

Sarah Jordan Houseal

Poppy Schnacke

Lucy Unglesby

Lily Woodmansee

Emerson Callahan

Beatrix Jackson

Talat Thomas

Finley Carter

Christopher Price

Harrison Evers

Lucian Hanson

Levi Johnson

Porter Martin

Campbell McLean

Courtland Morris

Edward Scrugham

Aiden Walker

Elizabeth Thompson

2023–24 SCHOOL YEAR FUN FACTS

WE ARE A COED SCHOOL

IN ADDITION TO ENGLISH, OUR FAMILIES SPEAK 11 LANGUAGES IN THEIR HOMES

OUR FAMILIES REPRESENT A WIDE RANGE OF FAITH TRADITIONS

OUR FAMILIES IDENTIFY WITH THE FOLLOWING ETHNICITIES: EUROPEAN AMERICAN/CAUCASIAN AFRICAN AMERICAN ASIAN AMERICAN LATINO/HISPANIC MULTI-RACIAL NATIVE AMERICAN

CATHOLIC CHURCH OF CHRIST BUDDHISM

JEWISH

SIKHI

HINDU PENTECOSTAL

ART TEACHER CAROL BUCHMAN ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

It is thanks to the kindness of another Grace-St. Luke’s art teacher that native New Yorker Carol Buchman ended up coming to Memphis, and ultimately, GSL. The late Joel Alexander, a beloved art instructor here from 1983-94, befriended Buchman at an arts conference they both were attending in Phoenix in 1992. Buchman was looking for a job, and Alexander introduced her to the head of the then-Memphis City Schools art department, who hired her on the spot.

After five years in public schools, Buchman came to GSL upon Alexander’s retirement in 1997. She also married noted sculptor Roy Tamboli that year, and brought stepson Miles Tamboli ’03 along with her to GSL as a third grader. With her unique style, generous heart, and thoughtful sensibility, Buchman quickly began to leave her mark on GSL and the hundreds of Lower School students who wound their way through her classroom.

Her love of travel took her to interesting locales around the world during her summers off, and she always brought back interesting art pieces to show students. (A philanthropic gift from alumnus Will Taylor ’79, featured in The Anchor Fall 2011, allowed her to acquire paintings, sculptures, and masks from travels in Panama and China that will remain a part of GSL’s art classroom collection after her retirement.)

Head of School Andy Surber has appreciated her authentic efforts to incorporate global culture into her lessons. “I’m glad our students have been able to learn from someone who cares so much about the process as well as the meaning behind the art.”

As a working artist herself, Buchman talked about her career with students and regularly donated pieces to the Anchor Auction. Her artwork was most recently exhibited in November at the Buckman Performing & Fine Arts Center, and she has work in a number of public collections, including the Tennessee State Museum in Nashville, the Alvin J. Fine Museum in San Francisco, at Le Bonheur and at Spence and Becky Wilson Children’s Hospitals in Memphis, as well as in our own Anchor Library.

Buchman’s paintings explore the human connection to the mysterious. They often feature animals, and she uses a variety of materials, from paint to paper collage to fabric, to capture a specific moment of wonder. She found over the years that her artwork was influenced in ways by her students’ work. “I’ve tried to have some of the looseness I see in theirs, the ability to create without editing, which is not always so easy!”

Another thing that wasn’t easy during her tenure was having to temporarily relocate to the Lower School building during the pandemic due to health and safety protocols. Despite having to give up her planning space

and access to many of her materials, she persevered, traveling to classrooms and transforming the Lower School Multipurpose Room with student artwork during that time.

Although Buchman is excited to have more time to pursue her own art soon, she knows she will miss the connections and camaraderie that come with being at GSL.

“I’ve always felt supported here,” she says, “and I’ve loved working with Anna and Lee. I’ve also loved organizing our Hanukkah chapels every year, and talking to World Religions classes about Judaism, and serving as a kind of ‘den mother’ for Jewish students here. I will miss this whole community. I can’t go anywhere in town without running into kids I’ve taught. I love seeing those grads and being connected to GSL families. And I’ll miss the vibrancy in this art room, which has often seemed like a world unto itself.”

Buchman’s co-teacher Anna Chahal will miss their work together in Lower School. “I am very grateful to have reentered the teaching world under Carol's guidance. I have the utmost respect for her as a teacher, an artist, and a human being, and I’m sad to see her go!”

Colleague Lee Schaffler expressed similar sentiments, describing Carol as an inventive and resourceful teacher. “Having painted all over the world, she brought a wealth of culture and new perspectives to her classroom. I always enjoyed hearing about her travels and seeing how they inspired her students’ work. GSL students were blessed to have her guidance and inspiration! I’m also grateful for the support she provided when I became the Middle School Art Teacher, and I’ve enjoyed our after-hours time together while she helped me mount the Middle School art shows. I will really miss her!”

GSL will really miss Carol Buchman, too, and her boundless creative spirit!

Eagle’s Nest and some 25 other paintings by Carol Buchman were on display in November and December at the Buckman Performing & Fine Arts Center. See her work at carolbuchman.org.

ANCHOR FUND 101

By Brenda Berry, Director of Advancement

Each year, GSL — like most independent schools — relies on donations to support its annual operating budget. This is the primary purpose of GSL’s Anchor Fund. The following information further outlines the importance of the Anchor Fund to GSL.

What is the Anchor Fund?

The Anchor Fund is GSL’s most important and largest fundraising effort each year. It helps bridge the approximate 20 percent gap between the actual cost of a GSL education and tuition.

Who Should Give to the Anchor Fund?

Every member of the GSL community is encouraged to contribute to the Anchor Fund each school year.

How are Anchor Fund Gifts Used?

Donations to the Anchor Fund support nearly every aspect of GSL. For example, they enhance the learning experience at GSL, help the school equip the classrooms with laptops and smart boards, help with facilities and maintenance needs — something that is always needed on our well-used campus — and ensure that faculty and staff have professional development opportunities and excellent compensation packages.

Contributions to the Anchor Fund are expended during the same school year in which they are received, having an immediate impact on current faculty, staff, and students.

What Amount Should I Give to the Anchor Fund?

Every gift makes a difference and positively impacts the learning environment at GSL, regardless of the amount. This school year, we have received gifts ranging from $5 to $50,000.

When you make a donation to Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal School, many employers will donate the same amount. Some companies even match a retiree’s donation, too! To see if your employer offers a matching gift program, visit gslschool.org/matching-gift-program.

I Pay Tuition. Why Should I Give to the Anchor Fund?

Anchor Fund donations are imperative to creating a balanced operating budget. These gifts also help with unexpected or unbudgeted needs, such as security enhancements.

Whom Do I Contact About Giving to the Anchor Fund?

Brenda Berry, Director of Advancement bberry@gslschool.org

You may also give online at gslschool.org/give.

2023-24 Anchor Fund Goal

$390,000

Co-Chairs Lauren & Justin ’92 Taylor and Ann ’94 & Zach Pretzer Last Day to Donate or Pay Pledges July 31, 2024 Give Online: gslschool.org/give

GSL parent volunteers handed out donuts and encouraged families to give to GSL during the 2nd Annual Celebration of Giving to GSL. From left to right: Zach Pretzer, Meghan Barksdale, Lauren Taylor, Kathleen Behnke, Ashley Adams, and Katie McDermott '03

2nd Annual Celebration of Giving to GSL

Thanks to our wonderful GSL community, we had a very successful 2nd Annual Celebration of Giving to GSL! During this weeklong event, held February 5-9, 87 donors gave more than $22,000 to GSL's 2023-24 Anchor Fund.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in the Celebration of Giving to GSL!

Scan the QR code to watch this year’s video, featuring students, alumni, faculty, staff, and parents who share how GSL is their anchor.

Celebration of Giving 2024

P.A. EVENTS CONNECT THE COMMUNITY

We are always proud of the work of our Parents’ Association, and this year has been no different! Here’s a glimpse of some of the fun times we had together. #lukersforlife!

Trivia Event

Trivia Night is always a fun evening for our parents - and we brought costumes back this year! Eighth grade parents Emilie and Lewis Unglesby, Scott and Courtney Woodmansee, Lisa Buckner and Kiersten Schnacke, and Todd and Leigh Richardson channeled their inner Grizzlies Grannies and Grandpas.

Italian Dinner

We held the Italian Dinner in-person again for the first time since the pandemic! It was a monumental accomplishment by Event Chairs Eleanor Jacobs and Emilie Unglesby and the Class of 2024 parents who made it all happen. The Anchor Center was the perfect venue for a great night at GSL, and dinner was deliziosa! (Also see back cover photo and photos in Alumni News.)

Sixth Graders Cameron Gibbs, Crosby High, Miles Orr, and Luke Bresee

Eighth Grader Courtland Morris serves up pizza to Italian Dinner attendees.

Faculty Appreciation Luncheon

Current and retired faculty and staff were invited to the annual appreciation luncheon organized by

Father-Daughter Dance

Anchor Auction

Above far left: Fourth Graders Waverly McKenna,

and Karrington Gardner having a large time at their first Father-Daughter dance!

Above: Twisting the night away with their dates: Fifth Grader Elliot Bagwell, Eighth Grader Poppy Schnacke, and Fourth Grader Mila Shaw

Left: Fifth Graders Lyda Scrugham, Mimi Beasley, Elizabeth Robinson, Julia Martin, and Louise Behnke

Many thanks to our event sponsors (listed below) and to everyone who donated, participated, or purchased items. It was a great night for GSL!

Lower School Teachers Jessica Muller, Abby Hensley, Anna Chahal, and Elizabeth Bayzie

Event Chairs Jodi Criner East and Allison Musick.

This year’s Anchor Auction was fantastic! Many thanks to Event Chairs Katie McDermott ’03 and Mary Maxwell, pictured here with Head of School Dr. Andy Surber, for all their hard work.

Alison Morris, Mila Shaw,

Third Graders Ruby Fisher, Henry Cantrell, Graham Fisher, Wake Gordon, and William Musick await their scene in the school’s annual Easter week presentation of the Stations of the Cross.

SAINTS SUPERLATIVES

SPECTACULAR STUDENTS

Varsity Golf Team: PAA League Championship Tournament Title

Coach Will Merrell, Campbell McLean ’24, Grant Barger ’24, Ty Merrell ’24, Levi Johnson ’24, and Coach Juan Roncal

Annual GSL Christmas Card Art Contest Winners:

Cover Art, Zoe Pretzer ’25; Inside Art: Mila Douglas ’26, First runner-up: Emelia Willig ’27, Second runner-up: Charlie Johns ’26

GSL Chess Club Team members Jack Sweeney Hannock ’29, Foster Gettys ’25, captain Paul Blankenship ’26, Jonas Pretzer ’28, and Jack Thatcher ’27 competed at the state level after placing fourth in the Tennessee Chess Association's Regional 4 qualifier tournament.

7/8 Varsity Girls Basketball Team: 2023 Turkey Shoot Champs

Coach Allyson Campbell, Beklin Johnson ’25, Eleanor Fore ’25, Lily Woodmansee ’24, Zoey High ’24, Zoe Pretzer ’25, Eloise West ’25, Coach Morgan Slatery, Coach Kallan Klinger (not pictured, Emerson Callahan ’24)

In other basketball news, three teams were runners-up in their league tournaments: 7/8 Varsity Girls (Shelby League 7/8), 5/6 Varsity Girls (Shelby League 5/6), and 5/6 JV Girls (PAA). Six Saints made their league’s All-Tournament teams: Matilda Blair ’26, Julia Laizure ’26, Zoe Pretzer ’25, Emerson Callahan ’24, Miles Orr ’26, and Levi Johnson ’24

Winter Spirit Award Winners

School Spelling

School

Elizabeth Thompson ’24

Luca Federico ’28

Levi Johnson ’24

Courtland Morris ’24

Lower

Bee Winner

Middle

Spelling Bee Winner

LUKERS FOR LIFE ALUMNI NEWS

’82 Last fall Clay Smythe was named the Robert J. Hussey, Sr. Chair of Religion at Memphis University School. Smythe has served in many roles at Memphis University School, but teaching religion and ethics has been a strong thread throughout his tenure. (Photo by Grant Burke/MUS)

’01

Chad Cunningham has been promoted to partner with Valentine Insurance. Prior to joining Valentine in 2021, Cunningham spent more than 10 years in the banking industry

’07 Wallace

Ann Sorrells was the visiting artist at Dallas’s Market Highland Park, where she created hand-painted monograms for Allora Totes.

’98 Grizzlies announcer

Pete Pranica recognized Frank Langston as the FedEx Fan of the Game when the Grizzlies played Utah in November.

’04

’08 Jordan Upton Schieffler is now an agent with Ware Jones Realtors after spending seven years as the director of sales and marketing for Aromatique.

(Photo courtesy of Ware Jones)

’10

Sally Clark married SMJ Meeker on October 21, 2023 at Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Pictured below at the reception are Class of 2010 alumnae Sophie Starks, Katie Ayres, Abby Huber, and Margaret Haltom. Also in attendance were Gray Clark ’14, Joseph Elrod ’10, Performing Arts Teacher Leslie Reddick, retired Fourth Grade Teacher Jane Williams, and Head of School Dr. Andy Surber.

Alicia Anderson Gomes graduated in 2020 with a Master of Divinity from the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest in Austin. After a stint in hospital chaplaincy, she moved to Tampa to become the chaplain at their St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School. In December 2022, she was ordained as a deacon at Calvary Episcopal Church by Bishop Phoebe Roaf, and this past September, she was ordained a priest in Tampa, surrounded by much of the St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School community.

“It is a blessing and a privilege to serve children and work for an Episcopal school,” she said. "I frequently reflect on my time at GSL and how I was nurtured in my faith and my development as a young person. It’s unlikely I would have pursued school chaplaincy if not for my overwhelmingly positive experiences at GSL.”

Pictured here with brother Blake Anderson ’06

’05

Audrey Webster married Spencer Darrohn in Fairhope, Ala. in October. The couple resides in Memphis, where Audrey is a treasury management relationship officer at Regions Bank.

’12

Madison Walk is studying nonprofit management and marketing at the University of Memphis. She hopes to start and run a homeless shelter in Memphis.

’14 Connor Anderson graduated with an M.S. in Information Systems from Mississippi State University. He is engaged to Allyson Reed, whom he will marry in June 2024.

’16 Whit Overstreet will graduate from Rhodes College with a degree in Politics, Philosophy & Economics and plans to enroll in grad school to pursue his MBA and then work for a professional baseball team, with the ultimate goal of becoming a general manager/ VP of baseball operations.

’20 Samuel Callan was named a National Merit Semifinalist at MUS; classmates Henry Duncan and Harry Feild were named National Merit Commended Scholars.

’16 Caroline Couch recently received a Fulbright award that will take her to Nijmegen in the Netherlands this August to pursue her master’s degree in Arts and Culture at Radboud Universiteit. She hopes to research and develop industry-specific sustainable measures for opera production, and chose the Netherlands because of the Dutch National Opera’s advancements in this field and Radboud Universitiet’s strong academic background in both the environmental sciences and creative industries.

’20 Hutchison senior Zelia Cedeno-Avila was recognized by the College Board as a National African American Recognition Program Scholar. She was also a crew member in the school’s production of Annie

’20

Cooper Deason (center) competed this year with classmates from Lausanne in News Channel 3’s Knowledge Bowl.

’21 Hutchison students Hannah Dunlap ’21, Nora Jacobs ’22, and Anna Ratton ’23 were on campus in the fall to perform with the school’s a cappella ensemble Vocal Point.

’21 Saints alumni at Harding made it to this year’s TSSAA Division II Bowling State Championships: Simone Guyton was runner-up and Maren Turns placed sixth.

’22

Dar Zafer qualified for TNMEA All-State Modern Band. He is one of two guitarists out of the entire state who traveled to Nashville in March for three days of rehearsals, workshops, and performances. (Photo courtesy of Lausanne)

’21 In cross country news this fall, Lausanne junior Jack Hagerman won the regional district title and was on the boys’ team (along with Liam Martin) that qualified for the state meet with a third place finish. Hagerman ended up placing third in the state. (Mom Jennifer Hagerman says: “Shout out to GSL Coaches Jeff White and Emily Merrell for encouraging him to try out for track in eighth grade and sparking an interest!”)

’23

Jake Turner Smith (front row in purple) is the manager of Christian Brothers High School’s varsity and junior varsity wrestling teams, and is a percussionist in the freshman Honor Band. (Photo courtesy of CBHS)

’22 Glover Patton, Tom Crosby, Cate Ciaramitaro, Harper Behnke, Nora Jacobs, Maggie Taylor, Madden Oatis, and Jay Clarke at MUS Homecoming

LUKERS FOR LIFE ALUMNI NEWS

STARS OF THE STAGE

Middle School Performing Arts Teacher Leslie Reddick tries to make every high school show of her former GSL thespians. She’s often joined by other faculty and Saints alumni!

Crosstown’s production of the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee - fans and cast pictured here: Katie Young ’23, Ruby Brunson ’23, Leslie Reddick, Lucy Cothern ’23, Simone Guyton ’21, Brooke Routen ’21, Ethan Choo ’22 and Beatrix Jackson ’24

Michael Davis ’22 was in Animal Farm at CBHS.

She Kills Monsters at Lausanne - fans and cast pictured here: Calvin Leitzell ’23, Katie Young ’23, Wren McCloud ’23, Cooper Deason ’20, Leslie Reddick, Ruby Brunson ’23, Sam Mascolino ’22, Aiden Orr ’22, and Edens Richardson ’20

MUS staged Mamma Mia! in the fall with the help of two Lukers: Marley White ’20, the house manager, helped build the set and worked on the stage crew; Paige Fernández ’21 designed the lights and ran the tech booth. Paige is planning to go to school in England to become a lighting designer.

Jamel LeFlore ’23 (in costume) was Yertle the Turtle in Harding’s production of Seussical. He’s pictured here with Simone Guyton ’21, Joan Terhune ’23, Mila Douglas ’26, and GSL teachers Leslie Reddick, Kimberly White, and Jeff White.

POST-PANDEMIC PARTY

The Class of 2020's 8th grade year-end events were curtailed by Covid, but their GSL party finally happened! Parents joined forces this spring and gathered at the Brewer Family’s home to make good on their promise to celebrate these Saints alumni.

Front row: Bronwyn Saatkamp, Saylor Waddell, Edens Richardson, Khaki Callan, Rebecca Burnett, Jayla Williams, Anna Smith, Emmy Roberts, Charles Rowland; back row: Kai Barnes, Hays Prather, Seth Cohen, Ron Byrnes, Luke Early, Carlos Gonzalez, Mathis Bryant, Mike McDonnell, Noland Brown, Harry Feild, Cooper Shannon, Jackson Saatkamp, Owen Sharp, Henry Duncan, Knox Brown; top: Benjamin Brewer, George Henley

HOOP DREAMS

Some 70 young alumni returned to campus for a basketball scrimmage on the last day of school before Christmas break, much to the delight of GSL’s Lower and Middle School students!

Foster Houseal ’21, Thomas Davis ’21, Hays Prather ’20, Seth Cohen ’20, Knox Brown ’20

Martha Mitchell ’23 and Bella McAdams ’23

Alumni Cheering Section!

Cate Ciaramitaro ’22, Virginia McLean ’21, Nora Jacobs ’22

Jeremy Bowers ’15, Ellen Hendry, Jerry Butler ’15

Andrew Kerr ’18 and George Brewer ’21

Chip Eason ’17 and Stephen Cates ’17

Sam Wilkinson ’23, Glover Patton ’22, Bauer Patton ’19, Spencer Norris ’19, Cris Loa ’18

Ava Cohen ’22 and Maggie Taylor ’22

Lucy Hettinger ’18, Lilly Linkous ’18, Addison Wilson ’18, Sara Kate Burnett ’18, Coach Morgan Slatery, Ellie Smith ’18

Class of 2022 alumnae Betsy Halliday, Nora Jacobs, Maggie Taylor, Harper Behnke, Cate Ciaramitaro

CIAO, SAINTS!

Alumni came out to join parents, students, faculty, and staff for the annual 8th Grade Italian Dinner, in-person again for the first time since the pandemic. This event was launched some 50 years ago at GSL as the Spaghetti Supper.

Middle

21+ ALUMNI GET-TOGETHER

More than 50 alumni who attended GSL from the ’70s to the ’10s gathered at Wiseacre to reconnect in February.

Ann Frizzell Pretzer ’94 with children Jonas ’28 and Zoe ’25 and parents Kip and Martha Frizzell.

School Ethics Teacher Sarah Ranson and daughter Ruby Martin ’21

Henry Grosvenor ’83 with son Beau ’27 and classmates William Pace ’27 and Charlie Willson ’27

Albert Johnson ’89, Coach Jim Lassandrello, Mat Parker ’84, and Joseph Battaile ’85

Parent Lauren Langston Scrugham ’92 works the food line

Grant Barger takes dinner orders to sister Finley ’19 and Coach Andrew Sichting ’15

Virginia Unglesby ’21 with parents Emilie and Lewis Unglesby

Dan and Price Peacock ’03, Kirkland Bible, Mary and Andy Surber

Kent ’78 and Kay Wills ’78, Audrey Webster Darrohn ’05 and husband Spencer

Dub Sorrells ’11, Ellen Hendry, Debbie Callahan, and Rieves Wallace ’11

Chip Benson ’79 and John Gary ’79

Ken Woodmansee ’81, Robert Massey ’80, Porter Cavette ’79, and Scott Woodmansee ’79

Kirkland Bible, Sisco Larson ’03, and Lee Johns ’03

Cecelia Ralston Thomason ’07 and husband Jonathan

FROM THE ALUMNI DESK

Dear Saints Alumni,

We have loved connecting with you this year!

Many thanks to all who joined in the alumni basketball game – to the delight of a huge Lower and Middle School fan base – on the last day of school in December. Over 70 alumni came back to show off their hoop skills!

We also were happy to see so many alumni attendees at our Italian Dinner in January (back in person for the first time since the pandemic!). And finally, we enjoyed visiting with more than 50 alumni who came out to reconnect and trade stories at our 21+ annual event at Wiseacre in February (see photos below and opposite page).

If you missed out, your email may not be correct in our alumni database. Please email kshelton@gslschool.org to be sure your contact information is current. Also remember that you can always submit news and updates on our website at gslschool.org/alumni-updates.

While we are talking updates, here’s one we want to share with you: We are expanding the GSL Alumni Corner! This permanent installation on GSL’s campus, at the corner of Linden and Lemaster, was launched in 2013 as a recognition opportunity to honor and remember students, faculty, and alumni. Many parents have purchased plaques for their 8th graders as a graduation gift, and there are

numerous other faculty, families, and GSL superstars recognized on the current corner.

With more than 125 plaques now installed, we have almost run out of room – prompting a decision to expand the corner by adding a larger installation space on the northfacing wall of the Anchor Center itself. To be titled the Alumni Alcove, this space already holds special status as an outdoor eating spot designated for 8th graders. Adding alumni commemoration plaques to the wall as a new annex to the corner will further enhance this space for 8th graders and future alumni of the school. If you are interested in ordering a plaque for this new space, please visit gslschool.org/alumni-corner. Installations are scheduled to begin this winter.

As always, please stay in touch! Following GSL on social media is the way to do that – we are on Facebook (with both a school page AND an alumni association page) and on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn. Please share, follow, and like us! Also know that GSL welcomes alumni interested in teaching at GSL, working in After School Care and SummerFest, and coaching Middle School sports teams. Email rkohlhof@gslschool.org about coaching. Visit gslschool.org/careers to submit a resume. GO, SAINTS!!!

- Your GSL Alumni Association

Elizabeth Elrod ’13, Margo Huber ’13, Mary Peyton Bell ’11, Emma Johnson ’11, and Claire Sentilles ’11

Elizabeth Ennis ’01, Bryce Hendry ’02, Ashlee Rivalto Hendry ’01, and Matt Sights ’01

Hans Bauer ’05 and Tucker Carr ’04

The 27 members of the 8th Grade Class of 2024 were excellent party preppers, waiters, and carnival leaders for the annual Italian Dinner – a tradition for some 50 years now at GSL. We were so glad to bring this event back in person and are grateful to all those who came out to support our eighth graders, who did a fantastic job hosting our community. Way to go, Saints! #lukersforlife