ANCHORED THROUGH CHANGE Saints Surmount the Pandemic and Forge Ahead
PLUS +TRIBUTE TO THOR KVANDE
HIGH SCHOOL PLACEMENTS ANNOUNCING GSL’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY
Just another fun day at GSL for Second Graders Norah Shipley, Olivia Bennett, Daniela Sacoto, and Jordyn Shelton.
IN THIS ISSUE
PAGES
2 3 4 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 16 21 23 24 26
Editor's Note Spring arrived in Memphis along with a welcome sign of change on campus – a transition to mask-optional protocols for students and faculty. Because this magazine was in production before that change was implemented, this issue contains a mix of photos depicting students both masked and unmasked: an accurate reflection of life at GSL during this second half of our school year. We’ve gotten very good at change since 2020, adapting to constantly evolving COVID protocols and repeatedly revising and adjusting our normal day-to-day operations to keep students safe and in school. And more change still lies ahead, as we bid farewell to our current Head of School Thor Kvande – and celebrate his 18 years of dedicated service to GSL – while preparing to usher in our new leader Andy Surber this fall. This coming school year, we will also reflect on our past 75 years of growth – and change! – as we celebrate the anniversary of our founding. We all know the saying, “The only constant is change.” But we can be thankful for another constant – the strength of this school, and the importance of GSL for the past generations of students who’ve walked these halls, and the ones who will follow. On this issue’s cover, we celebrate that strength with optimism for our future, no matter what changes are still to come. Cover photo, front row: First Grader Meyers Pontius and Third Grader Rylee Simelton; back row: Eighth Graders Addison Epps and Tom Crosby and First Grader Andy Balk. Photo by Jeff White Head of School Thor A. Kvande Editor Brenda Berry Managing Editor Marci Woodmansee Copy Editors Sherry Emerson Kate Shelton Photography Brandon Dill Jeff White Marci Woodmansee The Anchor is a biannual publication of Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School. Articles are published at the discretion of the school. Comments and questions should be directed to Marci Woodmansee, Managing Editor and Associate Director of Communications, at mwoodmansee@gslschool.org.
LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT CAMPUS LIFE EIGHTH GRADE INTERNSHIPS 2021-22 FUN FACTS GSL ANNOUNCES NEW HEAD OF SCHOOL LEGACY LUKERS PROGRAMS OF STUDY GSL'S 75TH ANNIVERSARY CLASS OF 2022 HIGH SCHOOL PLACEMENTS TRIBUTE TO THOR KVANDE THOUGHTS ON THOR WHY GIVE TO GSL'S ANNUAL FUND? SAINTS SUPERLATIVES ALUMNI NEWS
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
2021 -22
Paul Morris, President
Lauren Taylor, Vice-President Scott Crosby, Secretary Sharon Shipley, Treasurer Ben Barksdale, Assistant Treasurer Liz Keough, Past President Emily Callahan
Lauri Prather
Linda Khumalo
Katrina Sanford
Margaret McLean
Paula Sappington
Luis Orbegoso
Simon Wadsworth
Ruth Patton
Ken Woodmansee
Thor Kvande, Head of School The Reverend Ollie V. Rencher, Rector The Right Reverend Phoebe Roaf, Bishop, The Episcopal Diocese of West Tennessee Andy Nix, Senior Warden Laura Davis, Parents’ Association President SPRING 2022
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LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Thor A. Kvande Dear GSL Families, When you first enter the Nantahala River, you almost immediately enter whitewater. The first two rapids, Entrance Rapids and Patton’s Run, follow one right after the other. Rafters are quickly thrown into the action, focused on a precise line along the right bank. Too far to the left, and your raft will be pinned against the river bank with unpleasant results. Once past Patton’s Run and its fearsome Lego Rock (a rock formation that is hard to get out of, if you accidentally get into it!), the Nantahala River continues its journey downstream towards NOC’s Basecamp, passing a picnic area and another series of rapids. The river valley winds past a quarry, an area that looks like something out of Jurassic Park. I’ve observed some wonderful things on the river: the tall, angular beauty of a blue heron, beaver dams under construction, and the majestic flight of a bald eagle. The mountains around the river are beautiful, soaring above the valley floor and providing stunning vistas. All the while, the people in the raft are working together – bonding, laughing, telling stories and jokes, and learning how to synchronize paddle strokes.
The rapid called Spin Cycle is always a highlight. People on each side of the raft paddle in opposite directions making the raft whirl around, to everyone’s delight! Good memories are created and people come together while having fun and enjoying the outdoors. The last rapid is the challenging Nantahala Falls. It’s the largest rapid on the river, and it requires a precise, technical approach. Teamwork is put to the test, especially as you navigate the area called Top Hole, a wave train that you want to be next to but not on top of, as it might bend your raft in two! Finally, you head over the Fall itself, a 12-foot drop that requires a specific approach to come over safely. The challenge then continues as the river quickly becomes more shallow, with plenty of rocks visible. But once past the rock garden, you can turn safely into Basecamp, with new friends, experiences, skills, and relationships built over the course of the afternoon. When I think about my experiences rafting down the river each year with the eighth grade class, I see some parallels with my time here at Grace-St. Luke’s, first as Head of Middle School and then as Head of School. When I arrived in 2004, our graduating class was 20 students – with only four boys! There were
Thor Kvande took his rafting experience to the next level last summer by training to become a Nantahala River guide.
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some immediate challenges to navigate in Middle School but, thankfully, we overcame them and built an outstanding Middle School experience. I spent a lot of time in those days talking about the Traits for Success, a precursor to the Formative Five traits that are an integral part of GSL today. With a great deal of planning and teamwork, we developed and implemented a series of programs, most notably the Eighth Grade Internship Program and the Chapel Talks, now core elements of the GSL experience. I also served on an Athletic Committee that took steps to improve our sports programs. The work we did then laid the foundation for the incredible basketball program we have today, which is the envy of every school in Memphis. I have been conscious each day as Head of School that I inherited GSL from my predecessors, and that I have been holding it in trust during my tenure for the next Head of School. I feel fortunate to have had this opportunity. Along the way, we’ve helped raise students who became wonderful graduates and went on to great success in high school and college with an incredible educational background from GSL. We’ve developed and implemented two strategic plans, been re-accredited twice, and revised and updated several curricula, including language arts, science, and English. There have been numerous facility improvements, including renovations at the Preschool to launch the Little Lukers program, the replacement of nearly every roof on campus, and a partnership with the Church and Scouts that led to two new classrooms in Middle School. And the open turf play area on Lemaster has proven to be an invaluable space and gathering place for students.
SPRING 2022 LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT
Paul Morris Dear GSL Community, Of course, in March 2020, COVID happened. All of our lives were unexpectedly impacted by the pandemic, which required new types of teamwork, communication, and coordination to navigate. Through it all, I have been grateful to be a part of the GSL community. It is unlike any other, and on behalf of the entire Kvande family, I thank you for welcoming all of us into this special community. Both of my children started at the Preschool and became proud GSL graduates. My incredible wife Dawn worked here for a period of time as well. Not a day goes by where we don’t talk about GSL and its impact on us. My children are who they are in no small part because of GraceSt. Luke’s, and I know I will take so many memories with me on my upcoming journey. I am deeply grateful for the support and friendship you’ve shown my family and me; thank you does not begin to express what I feel. I hope and believe that Grace-St. Luke’s has grown and improved during my time here, and I am confident it is in good hands, ready for the next stage of the river and whatever lies around the next bend. Sincerely,
Thor A. Kvande, Head of School
My favorite image of Mr. Kvande is from a particularly cold morning in January. He was standing outside the Anchor Center wearing his big earmuffs, enthusiastically greeting sleepy students as they arrived for early care. (I didn’t notice at the time, but the earmuffs were probably adorned with the logo from his beloved Philadelphia Eagles.) Each student was very proud to get a fist bump from the Head of School. The students’ affection and respect for Mr. Kvande is obvious. And it’s clear that the feelings are mutual: Thor loves and respects our children, his students. Upon learning about the upcoming change in leadership, my second grader Alison said, “I can’t believe Mr. Kvande is leaving!” For her, and for many of us, it’s hard to imagine GSL without Thor, because we’ve never known GSL without him. The GSL under his leadership is the GSL that attracted most of us to this community. The GSL under his leadership has integrity, empathy, and grit. The GSL under his leadership is a welcoming place that is thoughtful and cares deeply about each community member. The GSL under his leadership is academically excellent and prepares boys and girls to become creative problem solvers, confident lifelong learners, and responsible citizens in their communities and the world. These traits of GSL are Thor’s lasting legacy and gift to us. I’m thankful for all that Thor has accomplished during the past decade – including the implementation of two strategic plans, overseeing the early education of hundreds of successful graduates, introducing the Formative Five character education program, launching Little Lukers, developing the Eighth Grade Internship Program and Chapel Talks, improving Middle School athletics, and so much more. But I’m most thankful to Thor for the solid foundation he has laid for our future success. The best leaders are ones who humbly prepare an organization for a future without them. Thor’s humble, servant leadership has guided our school through some challenging times, especially recently, and because of his leadership we are well positioned for a very bright future. Leading us into our very bright future will be Dr. Andy Surber. We picked Andy to be our next Head of School, starting July 1, because of his enthusiasm, experience, and expertise. He knows what academic excellence looks like, and he knows how to rally a community together around a common purpose. Throughout the interview process, Andy’s optimism and vision for the future of our school was inspiring. Andy is a proven relationship builder, and he eagerly looks forward to building a relationship with you. Of course, no Head of School can do it alone. GSL is a community, and it takes support from our whole community to ensure our continued success. Thank you to everyone in our community – especially our teachers and staff – for all you have done to support our school. With your continued support, I know that GSL will flourish. Sincerely,
Paul Morris President, Board of Trustees SPRING 2022
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CAMPUS LIFE PRESCHOOL Helping Hands For a community helper unit in February, Little Lukers dressed as their favorite helpers and shared why they are important. The Jolly Giraffes pictured here with teachers Brittany Smith and Katie Longoria are Genevieve Hinkle, James Adams, Walter Goodman, Ryan Scott, Josephine French, Whit Harrigan, Son Sights, Barrett Sights, Will Pontius, Evelyn Bartkiewicz, May Adrian, and Margo McDermott.
Artistic Endeavors Junior Kindergartner Addison Brewer and classmates get creative outdoors on the Preschool playground.
Circle of Learning Outstanding Owls teacher Christine Anes reads aloud to her pre-kindergartners.
Play Hard, Sleep Hard (Far left) Junior Kindergartner Katherine Cobb Schneider keeps an eye out for the start of afternoon activities, while Violet Fisher stretches out for a power nap. On Top of the World Pre-Kindergartner Grace Johnston enjoys a nice vantage point on a late winter day in the Outdoor Classroom. 4
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CAMPUS LIFE
LOWER SCHOOL
Reading Is Fun Director of Library Services Jan Willis helps Senior Kindergartners John King, Londyn Funzie, and Aryam Addis check out books. Hats Off to 100 Days! First Grader Wake Gordon and classmates created hats with 100 objects to celebrate the 100th Day of School. Sweet Treats (Far right) Third Graders Finnegan Coleman and Marshall Lawrence mix up some delicious desserts after school during a Sugar & Spice ACE: Enrichment class.
Be Mine Third Graders enjoy the Lemaster Playground on a beautiful Valentine’s Day! From left, Angel Bowen, Chance Floyd, Dylan Johnston, Julia Martin, Clara Smith, Lillian Hardison, Blythe Potter, Emelia Willig, Leah Perry Butler, and Rylee Simelton.
Call the Tooth Fairy Second Grader Hasten Fisher flashes a big smile after visiting the Front Office for a tooth pull. (Ms. Angela can do it all!) Mathematically Minded Fourth Graders Blake Chauhan, Miles Orr, Mila Douglas, and Mary Elizabeth Fisher collaborate on cracking math codes. SPRING 2022
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CAMPUS LIFE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Spicing Things Up Fifth Graders Morgan Lambert, Anna Cochran, Matheo Ibled, Cullen Weeden, Sam Shipley, Parker Taylor, and Foster Gettys coordinated outfits perfectly to celebrate Twosday.
We Love Dress Down Days Red & White Days are fun, even when you have snack clean-up duty! Sixth Graders Sarah Jordan Houseal, Lily Woodmansee, Lucy Unglesby, Corinne Richardson, and Poppy Schnacke stop their work for a quick photo. Serving Others Eighth Graders Madden Oatis, Carter Wyatt, Trent Heehs, and classmates volunteered at Neighborhood Christian Center before the holidays to help pack 500 food boxes for Memphians in need.
Eye on the Ball Seventh Graders Taheim Elohem, Calvin Leitzell, Jamel LeFlore, Eliza Roberts, Caroline Byrnes, and Margaret Fore stay focused during a Middle School pep rally competition. Launch Time Fifth Graders Deklin Fundo, Ella Kate Schwager, and Ellie Barksdale run alongside Eighth Grader Tom Crosby as he tries to keep their team's hot air balloon afloat during Air & Space Day at Overton Park.
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SUCCESSFUL MILESTONE YEAR FOR ANNUAL INTERNSHIPS Eighth graders secured internships all over town (and out-of-town!) in program’s 15th year.
Amelia Simpson learned about the housing market with mentor Africa McCloy at Crye-Leike Realtors.
Harper Behnke helped perform a puppy exam during her internship at Eastgate Animal Clinic.
Samuel Rose learned what it takes to run Memphis’s newest radio station, WYXR, with Executive Director Robby Grant.
Carlos Orbegoso feeds a new friend during his internship at the Memphis Zoo.
Madden Oatis learned all about Division III sports with mentor Jim Duncan, athletic director at Rhodes College.
Sophia Wilson traveled to Louisiana for her internship at Roberto’s River Road Restaurant.
Ethan Choo worked with mentor and GSL parent Katherine Riederer at the Art Project.
Maggie Taylor interned at Memphis Dermatology Clinic with Dr. Frances Lawhead.
Will Fogerty learned about the cultural significance of iconic American cars with Richard Vining, founder of the Edge Motor Museum.
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A
WE A
RE
2021–2022 SCHOOL YEAR FUN FACTS CHOOL ED S O C MALE
54%
FEMALE
46%
IN ADDITION TO ENGLISH, OUR FAMILIES SPEAK 14 LANGUAGES IN THEIR HOMES MANDARIN PUNJABI
JAPANESE SPANISH VIETNAMESE
SWEDISH SLOVAK GERMAN
HUNGARIAN
OUR FAMILIES IDENTIFY WITH THE FOLLOWING ETHNICITIES:
FARSI ARABIC
EUROPEAN AMERICAN MULTI-RACIAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MIDDLE EASTERN ASIAN AMERICAN NATIVE AMERICAN LATINO/HISPANIC
OUR FAMILIES REPRESENT A WIDE RANGE OF FAITH TRADITIONS
HINDU
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CATHOLIC
TURKISH
HINDI
SIKHI
GREEK ORTHODOX
EPISCOPAL
FRENCH
BUDDHISM
JEWISH
PRESBYTERIAN
CHURCH OF CHRIST
UNITARIAN
METHODIST
CHRISTIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL
EASTERN ORTHODOX
ISLAM
BAPTIST
COPTIC ORTHODOX
Andy Surber
GSL ANNOUNCES DR. ANDY SURBER AS NEXT HEAD OF SCHOOL
After a nationwide search, the Board of Trustees named Dr. Andy Surber as GSL’s next Head of School, effective July 1, 2022. The search began following Head of School Thor Kvande’s announcement last May that he would step down at the end of this school year. Surber currently serves as the Assistant Head of School and Head of Lower School at Laguna Blanca School in Santa Barbara, Calif. He is no stranger to Memphis, as he served as the Head of Lower School at GSL from 2009 to 2013 prior to joining Laguna Blanca in 2013. Surber holds a B.S. in Child Development from Rockford University, an M.Ed. in Organizational Leadership from Northern Arizona University, and earned his Ed.D. in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California. During his time at Laguna Blanca School, Surber led the early kindergarten through fourth grade campus and served in many areas of the school, including admissions, fundraising, and overall school development and direction. According to Grace-St. Luke’s School Board President Paul Morris, it was Surber’s enthusiasm and expertise that set him apart during the school’s national search.
added. “It has been inspiring to hear Andy’s optimism and vision for the school, and I am certain that he has what it takes to help ensure GSL’s longterm success and sustainability.” Surber is excited about returning to Memphis and forging new relationships inside and outside our school community. “It’s a dream come true to lead a school that I care for so deeply,” he said. “Since its founding, GSL has been recognized for both strong academics and the meaningful relationships that ensure every child is known and valued. Grace-St. Luke’s has talented faculty and staff, a passionate alumni base, and a strong sense of community. And GSL graduates are known to be community-centered, kind, intelligent, and well-rounded, so it’s no surprise they are sought after by high schools. “I am eager to meet and build relationships with students, families, peer schools, and local businesses,” he added. “These positive connections help advance curriculum development, deepen learning for students, and build community support as the school evolves. It is these connections that make school fun for all and our collective experiences meaningful. It’s part of what my wife Mary and I loved about GSL the first time we were here, and it’s why the school was such a positive experience for our sons, Keenan and Logan. I am really excited to rejoin the GSL community!” The search process was coordinated by the Board’s search committee, chaired by Past President Liz Keough. Consultants with The Education Group guided the Board through the search process and will continue to offer assistance during the Head of School transition.
“Our first and foremost priority at GSL is academic excellence,” Morris said. “Andy knows what that looks like and how to bring a community together in pursuit of that goal. He is a relationship builder and has the skill set needed to advance GSL. It is also beneficial to us that he already has an understanding of the competitive independent school market that is Memphis. “As we begin to celebrate our 75th Anniversary at GSL, we are naturally reflecting on the past while also looking towards the future,” Morris
Looks like a Head of School tradition: A throwback from Epiphany 2011 at GSL, when then-Head of Lower School Andy Surber, then-Head of Middle School Thor Kvande, and Head of School Tom Beazley dressed up as the Three Wise Men. SPRING 2022
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LEGACY LUKERS: CONTINUING THE SAINTS TRADITION Congratulations to these two legacy members of the Class of 2022, and a special thank you to their alumni parents for continuing the Saints tradition by sending them to GSL! We asked these students and their parents to reflect back on their time here and share some memories for this annual legacy feature.
ELEANOR WHITE JACOBS ’93
NORA JACOBS ’22
(attended GSL through 1st grade, 1985)
Favorite class: 7th grade math
Favorite class: I loved playing the game “Hidden in Plain Sight” in the first grade classroom
Favorite extracurricular: Basketball Favorite GSL memory: Basketball team camp at Harding University
Favorite teacher: Bobbie Moore
What you’ll miss most: My friends and teachers Eleanor in 1st grade, 1985
Favorite extracurriculars: Field trips, especially when we picked cotton in Arkansas Favorite GSL memory: Pep rallies were the best!
MAGGIE TAYLOR ’22
JUSTIN TAYLOR ’92
Favorite class: 8th grade history
Favorite class: History with Coach Russ Cangelosi
Favorite extracurricular: Basketball Favorite GSL memory: When all four Shelby League basketball teams won their championships in 2022! What you’ll miss most: I will miss so many things – definitely all of my friends and the GSL community. I know that I am so lucky to be a part of it, and I will miss it so much!
Favorite teacher: Anne Nichol Favorite extracurricular: Rollerblading/ pogoballing Favorite GSL memory: Ninth grade class trip to Chicago (yes, 9th grade!), which included a visit to Bertucci’s – Coach Lass’s favorite Italian restaurant – and a Cubs game.
“RETIREES” CONVENE TO GET UPDATE ON 75TH ANNIVERSARY PLANS Speaking of legacies, these former and long-time faculty members were welcomed to campus for a visit in January. We were delighted to host them for lunch and personally invite them to our upcoming 75th Anniversary Celebration! (See page 12-13 for more details on that event.) Front row, Karen McLaren, Pat Gray, Jennifer Atkins, Jim Lassandrello, Brenda Hawkins, Marilyn Kidd, Sue Crabtree, Denise Taylor, Evelyn Stevens, Joyce Bruno, Sherry Prewitt, and Brucia Mory; back row, John Stewart, Nick Scully, Nancy Taylor, Libby Shannon, Betty Wilson, Tina Gault, and Debbie Callahan. 10
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GSL PUBLISHES PROGRAMS OF STUDY In January, GSL published to its website 12 unique documents known as our Programs of Study. Each Program of Study document provides a grade-by-grade overview of our curriculum and exit outcomes for each grade level, from Little Lukers through 8th Grade. “The faculty worked incredibly hard to prepare these documents,” said Head of School Thor Kvande. “Each grade-specific Program of Study document showcases our program, providing current and prospective families insight into the curriculum at GSL.” To view GSL’s Programs of Study, visit gslschool.org/academics. Little Lukers, Pre-Kindergarten, and Junior Kindergarten can be viewed under Preschool. Click on Lower School to see Senior Kindergarten through 4th Grade. Finally, 5th-8th Grades are located under Middle School.
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SAVE DATE LET’S
SATURDAY
75 YEARS,
20
AUGUST
Celebrate
6-9 P.M.
Saints!
GSL Community
Past & Present
SAVE THE DATE TO CELEBRATE! GSL's 75th Anniversary Saturday, August 20, 2022 6 – 9 p.m. GSL Anchor Center 250 Lemaster Scan the QR code or visit tinyurl.com/GSLis75 to RSVP today! - Ages 21 & over only; including GSL Classes of 1947-2015 - Hors d'oeuvres, beer, and wine provided - Casual attire
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IT’S TIME TO CELEBRATE: GSL REACHES MILESTONE 75 YEARS At GSL, we’re all about community. And next year, we are going to celebrate our community all year long. During the 2022–23 school year, Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School will be celebrating its 75th Anniversary with a focus on the heart of GSL’s community: the people. From students, parents, and alumni, to grandparents, faculty/staff, and friends, we are known for our strong, vibrant community of lifelong learners dedicated to providing tomorrow’s leaders with a strong academic and social-emotional foundation. The strength and grit of our community has brought us to this milestone, and we are delighted to begin celebrating our 75 years together. Each member of our community has contributed something special to GSL’s history. And in fact, one of our famous former faculty–Nick Scully–is helping lead our 75th Anniversary Celebration as honorary chair of the event. Joining GSL in 1970, Scully started as a boys P.E. coach and quickly became one of the school's beloved long-time teachers of U.S. and world history. During his 17-year tenure, he also coached nearly every sport at GSL at the junior high and high school level, and ended up serving stints as Director of Development and Admissions. He has remained a tireless advocate for the school since his first day as a Saint 52 years ago, and we are delighted that he is helping his Lukers once again! While times have changed a great deal since our founding in 1947, our mission remains the same. This is such an exciting time for our school, and an opportunity to demonstrate our renewed commitment to the school mission so that we can continue to lead the Mid-South in educating children age 2 - grade 8 for another 75+ years. All past and present GSL Saints age 21 and over are invited to join us at the anniversary celebration on Saturday, August 20 as we walk down memory lane together to celebrate our 75th year here in Midtown Memphis.
GET INVOLVED! PASS IT ON Alumni students and families, please help spread the word about this exciting celebration by sharing the details with your Luker alumni friends!
SHARE YOUR HISTORY We are currently collecting items from GSL’s first 75 years. If you have any unique memorabilia from GSL’s history (or Miss Lee’s Preschool, which became part of GSL in 1987) and are willing to donate it to the school, please contact Marci Woodmansee at mwoodmansee@gslschool.org or 901-278-0200 today! We would love to collect more materials from our early years, like this 1957 Junior Kindergarten class composite (left), one of the few group photos we have from the 1950s.
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Class of 2022
HEADED TO HIGH SCHOOL
Skylah Gregory
Jack Barger Jay Clark Alex Colley Michael Davis Will Fogerty Mitchell Gilmore Trent Heehs Thomas McGoff Frank Plumley Tate Robertson Carter Wyatt
Ethan Choo Addison Epps Chloe Harris
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Congratulations to the Class of 2022! We wish you the best of luck as you begin your high school journey in August. You will be greatly missed!
Harper Behnke Betsy Halliday Nora Jacobs
Samuel Gilreath J.B. Hoehn Temana Kuo Sam Mascolino Alexandria Mickelson Aiden Orr Samuel Rose Dher Shubbar Dariush Zafer
Finn Church Tom Crosby Preston Norris Madden Oatis Carlos Orbegoso Glover Patton Henry Thompson
McKenzie Welch
Brooke Bechtel Catherine Carney Cate Ciaramitaro Ava Cohen Seraphine Saghafi Amelia Simpson Maggie Taylor Ana Thompson Marin Thompson Sophia Wilson WALNUT HILLS HIGH SCHOOL, OHIO Isla Morin
Betsy Halliday, Tom Crosby, Seraphine Saghafi, and Aiden Orr
Sophia Wilson and Madden Oatis work the drive-thru line.
Front: Finn Church, Sam Mascolino, Chloe Harris, J.B. Hoehn (in costume); back: Henry Thompson, Dariush Zafer, Catherine Carney, Marin Thompson, and Addison Epps
Temana Kuo, Brooke Bechtel, Samuel Rose, Will Fogerty, and Trent Heehs
Carlos Orbegoso, Jay Clark, Dher Shubbar, Cate Ciaramitaro, Harper Behnke, Glover Patton, and Amelia Simpson SPRING 2022
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Celebrating
THOR KVA 16
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HEAD OF SCHOOL LEAVES LEGACY OF THOUGHTFUL, MEANINGFUL CHANGE AND STEADY LEADERSHIP By Marci Woodmansee ’83, Associate Director of Communications June 2004: A 34-year-old Thor Kvande arrived from Maryland with his wife Dawn, toddler Claire, and baby Thomas in tow to take a new job in Memphis as Head of Middle School at GSL. There was only one problem: The moving truck hadn’t arrived along with them … and wouldn’t, for another two weeks. So the young family began life in Memphis on air mattresses, without any of their belongings. And no, the baby was not yet sleeping through the night! “I’m thankful I’m still married today,” Thor says with a grin. The moving truck did finally arrive, and once they settled in, Thor was able to turn his attention to figuring out Memphis (a city of neighborhoods, not unlike his childhood Philadelphia) and his new school. Fortunately, he already knew his boss, Head of School Tom Beazley, as they had worked together before. Tom had given Thor his first real job in 1992, after his graduation from Muhlenberg College. “He hired me as a history teacher at Woodland Country Day School in New Jersey,” Thor says. “I taught three different history classes and French, assisted with P.E. for four different grades, and coached or helped coach three sports. I wasn't making very much, but I thought I’d died and gone to heaven!”
ANDE
After four years at Woodland Thor moved on, as did Tom, who would eventually join GSL as our Head of School in 1998. But the two former colleagues stayed in touch. And six years into Tom’s tenure at GSL, when he was looking for a new Head of Middle School, he encouraged Thor to apply. “I interviewed for three days, and I still remember when Tom – in his inimitable way – called me around Thanksgiving to tell me that I had gotten the job,” Thor recalls with a smile.
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GSL’s Middle School was facing some challenges at that time, including parent uncertainty about the program and a slight downward trend in enrollment. Thor’s charge was to enhance the fifth-eighth grade curriculum and program in a way that would spur growth and elevate the overall Middle School experience. This he did in spades.
IMPORTANCE OF A HANDSHAKE That first summer, there were a variety of start-of-school challenges to overcome. Like the day Thor walked out of his Middle School office on the ground floor of Morton, only to find that a bad summer storm had caused an epic leak ("and a waterfall!") down the eighth grade stairs. There was also the Middle School class schedule to create. That summer, he got stuck on a problem that had to do with space. Walking around to find a solution, he came upon a giant room around the corner from his office, devoid of all furnishings – save for some Scouting memorabilia – that he thought might be the answer. He went to ask his Head of School if the room was available. He did not get the response he was hoping for. “Tom got red in the face and said loudly, ‘Don’t talk to me about the Scout Room! You can never use that space!’” Thor remembers. “When he calmed down and explained the history, I realized I’d have to go on my merry way without it. But I filed it away in my head and thought, ‘If I was ever king of the world, I would love to fix this.’” In the meantime, Thor turned his attention to the things he could fix. On the first day of Middle School in August 2004, his arriving fifth through eighth grade students were no doubt surprised to find him outside the Middle School entrance, waiting to greet them. Not with a wave and quick hello, mind you. But with a smile, a look in the eye, and a handshake. Every last one of them. This was a new thing entirely – and an important signal that as Middle Schoolers, they were now going to be treated differently, in terms of both privileges and expectations. That wasn’t the only change. Thor brought tools from other schools where he had worked, such as the Traits for Success, a character education component that could be woven into daily learning. He began using Chapel and advisory periods to talk a lot about citizenship, and courage, and kindness, emphasizing the importance of developing good character on the way to becoming a responsible GSL graduate. This became the perfect precursor to the Formative Five character education program – with its emphasis on integrity, embracing diversity, grit, self-control and empathy – that he guided GSL in adopting schoolwide in 2017.
ELEVATING EIGHTH GRADE By his fourth year as Head of Middle School, Thor launched two capstone eighth grade experiences that continue to thrive in their 15th year: the Eighth Grade Chapel Talks and the Eighth Grade Internship Program. “These were part of the larger effort to elevate the Middle School experience – for seventh and eighth graders in particular – to better attract students and families to GSL,” Thor says. “We spent a lot of time as a Middle School faculty looking 18
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at signature programs we could bring in, and thinking about the curriculum and how the school day was organized. We realized the importance and value of public speaking, so the Eighth Grade Chapel Talks came out of that as a way to put our oldest students in front of the community and let them share something about their GSL experiences.” For the internships, Thor drew more from his own experience in high school in Philadelphia, where every junior completed an individual project during the month of January. With his faculty, he began thinking through how GSL could do that at the eighth grade level. “I think some people were skeptical at first, thinking it was going to be like a ‘bring your kid to work’ day. But when they realized how we were holding our students accountable, and how we were requiring them to prepare for their internships, I think everyone quickly realized this was a different kind of program,” he says. “The first year we launched it, we just hoped and prayed there would be enough mentors for each student, and somehow, there were. They saw a high-quality young person coming into the internship with direction and purpose and energy, and very specific things they were charged with trying to learn and find out. And many of those original mentors have come back year after year. “We always say we have great kids at GSL,” he adds. “This program certainly proves it in how they’ve been able to perform in those settings over so many years.” Eighth graders also started creating a class banner – designing it together in Arts Block and choosing a motto that would help unify the grade and better position them as role models for GSL’s younger students. The Class of 2009 became the first, unveiling a class banner with the theme, “Don’t Follow the Beaten Path.” The class banner is now part of the All-School Chapel processional and is carried in by student acolytes throughout the year.
ABOUT THAT SCOUT ROOM… During his seven years as Middle School Head, Thor grew to really enjoy the challenge of putting together the schedule, thinking about how and where people moved throughout the school day and the space. Which brings us back to the Scout Room – an item that was still on his wish list to tackle when he became Head of School in 2011. “I just felt like a lot could be gained, not just for the school, but also for the church and the Scouts, if we could think about the space in a new and different way.” So, with the support of Board President Erie Barnes, Allison Cates, Vice President and Church Rector Richard Lawson, a Church-School-Scout team was formed that spent the better part of two years thinking and talking about ways to improve the situation. In 2016, they were ultimately able to negotiate an agreement for the three groups, which then became part of the overall Church-School Agreement in 2017. It gave the Scouts a new home in the Doan House property that the school owned, and gave the school two much-needed, Middle School classrooms, which were renovated in the summer of 2018. “That Scout room is one of my proudest accomplishments,” Kvande says. “The fact that we got these three groups to come together – overcoming some hurt feelings and old wounds that needed to be healed and put to right – and were able to bring people to a place where they entered into the agreement willingly and even joyfully … that was huge. I think all three groups look at it as an unqualified win.” Those rooms became important in a way Kvande never expected when COVID-19 hit. As the biggest classroom spaces available, they ended up being critical to the school’s ability to provide safe in-person learning by allowing for the physical distancing required when school re-opened in August 2020. COVID affected everything, of course, for most of these past two school years. But Thor, carefully digging into the details, never lost sight of the top priority – keeping students healthy and in school, where they could learn best.
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THE LITTLE THINGS Remember that handshake tradition Thor started in Middle School in 2004? Student Julia DeVincenzo would end up speaking about it in her Eighth Grade Chapel Talk in 2008. “Courtesy has been a major part of my life at Grace-St. Luke’s, especially since Mr. Kvande came to the Middle School,” she said. “His first year as Middle School Head was my first year as a Middle School student. Every morning, when we come into school, everyone shakes Mr. Kvande’s hand. I’ve learned to be courteous by looking him in the eye, and by shaking hands the right way.”
APPRECIATING THE SAINTS In an early Anchor magazine column as Head of School, Thor wrote about having been in meetings in the Head of School’s office many times when he first came to GSL, but how vastly the perspective differed once he moved to the other side of that desk. Diving into the Preschool and Lower School divisions and learning more about the traditions that help make a Luker a Luker were elements of the larger job that he quickly grew to love. “There are so many things that are good and special and unique about this place," he says. “And to go into a kindergarten or Preschool classroom and just be swarmed by kids – that’s where you go if you’ve had a tough day! Just head over to the Preschool and get a few hugs, and then you’re right as rain.”
A lot of time has gone by since that young, 34-year-old dad came to Memphis to lead GSL's Middle School. The Class of 2008, who were Thor’s very first class of fifth graders, are themselves approaching 30 years old today. No matter what the task – from giant experiential learning events like rafting with his eighth graders down the Nantahala, to the small but special things like teaching 11-year-olds how to tie a tie on their first dress uniform day – Thor carefully, thoughtfully put in the effort to improve the overall experience at this special school in Midtown, every single day. And in so doing, he helped build the character of hundreds of students along the way, starting with the simplest of gestures...a smile and a handshake.
Special mementos kept nearby also helped maintain perspective. His office today showcases a number of keepsakes from his tenure. Take the Andy Warhol-style auction photo of the Class of 2006, for instance. “That was my second Middle School class to graduate from GSL – the seventh graders that stayed because of the promise of change and good times ahead,” he says. "They wound up doing lots of good things, both academically and athletically, and one of the families gave that to me at the end of the year.” There’s also a beautiful painting of the Gospel writers in procession by Lower School Art Teacher Carol Buchman. And his desk bears a cross from Father Joseph WallaceWilliams, a member of the GSL church clergy who was beloved by students and faculty alike for his heartfelt Chapel homilies.
Gifts to GSL's Scholarship Endowment to Honor Head of School Thor Kvande As Head of School Thor Kvande prepares to bring his 18-year career at GSL to a close, we are celebrating all he has accomplished at our great school since his first day in 2004. To support the ongoing work that is so dear to his heart, we invite the GSL community to make gifts to the Scholarship Endowment in his honor. To give online, visit gslschool.mind-over-data.com. You may also mail your gift to GSL Advancement Department, 246 S. Belvedere Blvd., Memphis, TN 38104. 20
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THOUGHTS ON THOR Editor’s Note: Thor Kvande has worked with six Board Presidents during his tenure. See Letter from the President on page 2 for a tribute from current Board President Paul Morris. Thoughts from the five previous Board Presidents, along with reflections from GSL’s former Head of School and three current Division Heads, follow here.
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t’s strange how a school I never attended has so fundamentally changed who I have become. But that was – and is – my experience with GSL. This is, of course, mostly a result of the experiences my kids had at the school – a full 11 years of each of their lives, a time formed forever by that wonderful, strange, often magical and necessarily imperfect place. But my own experiences at the school changed me, too. Experiences that were entirely separate from my kids. This included my time on the Board of Trustees, including two years as president of the board, which meant that I spent two years – sometimes hours a day, sometimes four or five days a week – working with Thor.
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was overjoyed in 2018 when the Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl, not just because I’m a long-suffering Eagles fan (I am) or because it was such a rare Tom Brady loss (it was), but because no one deserved that victory more than my friend, Thor Kvande. Through thick and thin, injuries and bad trades, Thor’s devotion to the Eagles is legendary. His excitement that magical season spread throughout the school, and by the end of the playoffs had extended to even the most hardened Cowboys fans. When the Eagles won, there was no question that Thor needed to be on Broad Street for the victory parade. Thor’s wonderful GSL colleagues made sure things were covered so he could go. To top off an already perfect day, students wore green and white and sang the Eagles fight song, which was captured on video for him. But the most indelible image I have of Thor as a leader comes not from a board meeting or a parent conference or a graduation speech. It comes from the corner of Peabody and Lemaster. Drive by Grace-St. Luke’s on any given day and you’ll find Thor in the middle of the street patiently directing traffic, chatting with students, and working to keep everyone safe. I’m so very grateful for Thor’s dedicated leadership and service to our school.
Chapman Morrow Board President, 2011-13
From conquering the intricacies of swimming pool management, to dissecting the needs of a difficult overhaul of the reading curriculum, to sharing the unspeakable sadness of GSL families in crisis, to learning of staff members who had unexpectedly died, I watched how Thor was front and center for it all. And in those two years I learned that the job of Head of School is amazing and edifying and sometimes silly and sometimes crushing. Being a Head of School is a job where some days are filled with unspoken wonders that emerge unexpectedly amid the slow-boiling chaos, and where other days are filled with sorrows barely whispered – events that are, truly, far too much to see or hear or even remember. Thor handled it all with solidity and thoughtfulness and an unrelenting grace. I can’t thank him enough for all that he’s done. Eric Barnes Board President, 2013-15
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ecently I was looking for an old photograph and ran across a picture from GSL’s Stations of the Cross. It made me smile, looking at my third grade daughter wearing my waffle weave robe and a dish towel on her head. These “costumes” and the presentation of Stations of the Cross are very representative of the life and culture of GSL and our precious corner in Midtown. Traditions like the Eighth Grade Italian Dinner, weekly Celebration Chapel, and many others are full of joy. We cherish and embrace these traditions and experiences as a GSL community.
Our community has been nobly led by Thor Kvande for the last 11 years. I can scarcely think of an event at which Thor has not been present. Sporting events, the Anchor Auction, theater productions, the Lisa Lassandrello 5K, the class trip to Nantahala – Thor is there. All of these events create the special community and culture that we love at GSL. He has been a strong and visible presence for our students, families, and Midtown neighbors. I am thankful for Thor’s leadership and his generous heart. Allison Cates Board President, 2015-17 SPRING 2022
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have known Thor since hiring him in 1992 straight out of Muhlenberg College as a first-year teacher. I was the newly appointed Head of School at Woodland Country Day School in Bridgeton, N.J. and was looking for a Middle School teacher who would be both a great teacher and role model. Thor fit both requirements. When I moved to Grace-St. Luke’s and needed a Middle School leader, I immediately thought of Thor. Only this time, I was looking for a leader who would take the Middle School to the next level by elevating both the academic and co-curricular programs. Thor did an outstanding job of solidifying what was strong in the Middle School and creating new and exciting offerings like the internship program.
Tom Beazley Head of School, 1998-2011
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hor carried out the mission of the school on the daily. From the implementation of the Formative Five to the Eighth Grade Internship Program, Thor’s dedication to preparing problem solvers, confident learners, and responsible citizens was evident to me in each decision. I witnessed Thor contemplate how a decision would align with the school’s mission while also taking faculty, staff, parents, and students into consideration – a difficult task with so many stakeholders, but one he handled with dignity. It was an honor to work with him.
Doug Duncan Board President, 2017-19 e will be left with many memories of Thor’s kindness to the kids and his quiet reassuring presence during times of crises; but it is his work ethic that defines him. We had the right captain at the helm during the pandemic. COVID illuminated Thor’s conviction of his profession as a calling, not a job. No one works that hard for a j-o-b. Especially one where best efforts often lead to reproach instead of accolades. When there is no apparent solution, yet a solution is required.
As Thor worked tirelessly to steer us through these last few tough years, we are left with a living, breathing example of our beloved Formative Five. He chose these principles to guide our children to be caring adults who persevere, despite obstacles, to achieve their goals with grit and determination. I remember the day my son came home with a small carabiner on his backpack to symbolize the new character education program. These five attributes have been a great road map for him to follow. Exemplifying empathy, self-control, integrity, embracing diversity and grit, Thor leaves an indelible imprint upon our school. During his tenure, he shored up foundational aspects of the school finances, as well as the literal foundations of our buildings. He has added talented, enthusiastic faculty and staff to our long-time Lukers. Our teaching materials and reading sources show children mirrors of their own experiences; windows into the lives of others so different from them; and doors to reach out and connect to a wide, beautiful world. Thor has gently nudged us along the path to a brighter, more loving and inclusive future, where each of our children is valued and appreciated. For all of this, we appreciate you, Thor. Good luck on the next leg of your journey. We will say so long, but not goodbye. Liz Keough Board President, 2019-21 SPRING 2022
first met Thor during a Skype interview. He was warm, friendly, and made me feel at ease during what can sometimes be a grueling process. Thor continued to display these traits throughout my time here. Supportive and thoughtful, he made my transition from teacher to administrator an easy one. Thor gave me the professional opportunity to spread my wings. I will be forever grateful to him for believing in me to lead here at GSL. Thank you for your mentorship. You will forever be in my heart! Cynthia Hill Head of Preschool, Appointment 2015
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ne of the things I admire so much about Thor is his love for GSL and the children we teach. I’ll never forget that the job description for Head of Lower School had a part that read, “must love children.” After meeting Thor, I knew that he was the one who intentionally included that vital detail in the job description. His commitment to children is visible in our school and DEI mission statements. Those are legacies he leaves behind for us to hold fast, and to realize to their fullest potential! I have learned so much from Thor and will be forever grateful to him for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the incredible community at GSL.
Marti McCloud Head of Lower School, Appointment 2019
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hor has made a tremendous impact on Grace-St. Luke’s in his time here, and his fingerprints are on some of our most important signature programs: the Eighth Grade Chapel Talks, our Eighth Grade Internship Program, and class banners, to name a few. His vision for the school has strengthened our program as well as our reputation. I will be forever grateful for his guidance, support, and friendship as my career grew from classroom teacher to dean to Middle School Head. I owe him so much, and I will miss him! Ellen Hendry Head of Middle School, Appointment 2003
Seventh Grader Katie Young and PreKindergartner Thomas Bryndziar examine some red wiggler worms the Middle School students raised in habitats and then released at the Preschool.
BETTER TOGETHER 2021–22 Annual fund
Why Give to GSL’s Annual Fund? By Brenda Berry, Director of Advancement In the Advancement Department, we often get the question: “Why do you have an annual fund when families are already paying tuition?” As is the case at most independent schools, tuition does not cover the full cost of educating each student at GSL. The annual fund helps keep tuition affordable while supporting our classrooms, faculty, and student experiences. To better understand why people continue to support GSL’s Annual Fund, here are a couple of testimonials directly from GSL donors. Why do I give to GSL's annual fund?
I give to the GSL Annual Fund every year because GSL is a large piece of what made me and my family who we are today. It is where I created wonderful memories, made lifelong friends, and developed a large portion of my core values. I want to make sure that all future students have the same fantastic opportunities that my family and I had when we were growing up. GSL is a one-of-a-kind community and I am excited for my children to experience it. I give to make sure that it is not only there for them but continues to be a healthy and safe environment for the next generation to come.
I give to the GSL Annual Fund to assist in providing other students with the great education and opportunities that I had at GSL. I believe that to whom much is given, much is also required (Luke 12:48), and giving to the Annual Fund is one way to fulfill that requirement. –Kylie J. Jackson ’19 We’d love to learn why you support GSL’s Annual Fund! Email your thoughts to me at bberry@gslschool.org. You may also reach out with questions or to discuss different giving options. This year, Grace-St. Luke’s has a fundraising goal of $350,000. To help us reach this goal, please consider a pledge or gift to the 2021–22 Better Together Annual Fund. You may donate online at gslschool.mind-over-data.com or mail your gift to Advancement, GSL School, 246 S. Belvedere Blvd., Memphis, TN 38104. All gifts received by July 31, 2022 will be acknowledged in The Anchor magazine giving report coming out this fall. To all our donors, past and present, thank you for supporting your Saints! We always have been, and always will be, Better Together at GSL!
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SAINTS SUPERLATIVES SPECTACULAR STUDENTS
The 2021 Christmas Card Art Contest was a huge success, with 40 fantastic art submissions received. First-place winners: Eldon Earnshaw ’26 (cover art) and Caroline Byrnes ’23 (inside art); first runner-up: Jonathan Vance ’27; second runner-up: Daniela Sacoto ’28. Courtland Morris ’24 won the Middle School Spelling Bee. Henry Thompson ’22 won the Middle School Geography Bee for the third year! Fifth graders led our annual schoolwide Food Drive, bringing in a record-breaking 5,000 canned goods to benefit the Church Food Pantry and Mid-South Food Bank.
SPEEDY SAINTS Frank Plumley ’22 placed first in the men's 10K during the 20th Anniversary St. Jude Marathon Weekend in December with a finish time of 36:40. Winning the men’s is a huge accomplishment for a runner his age. He’s pictured here with his mom, Lower School Innovation Lab, Science & Technology Teacher Amie Plumley.
Levi Johnson ’24 came in 22nd in the men’s 10K and was the fastest in his 11-12 age group with a time of 44:31.
Lucian Hanson ’24, Campbell McLean ’24, Porter Martin ’24, and Zachary Moore ’25
John Hudson '25 with mom Hayley
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Saints also made it into the top 20 in the 5K race for the male 10-12 age group: Campbell McLean ’24 (4th), John Hudson ’25 (6th), Porter Martin ’24 (7th), and Lucian Hanson ’24 (13th). They were among many students, faculty, and staff who competed that weekend in support of St. Jude.
SAINTS HOOPS YIELD FIVE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS AND ONE RUNNER-UP It was one for the record books: Congratulations to all these teams and their coaches for an incredible year! Out of nine Saints basketball teams, we ended up with five championship titles and one runner-up finisher!
7/8 Varsity Boys: Shelby League Champs Coach Logan Taylor ’95, Coach Andrew Sichting ’15, Jay Clark ’22, Trent Heehs ’22 (All-Tournament), Glover Patton ’22, Madden Oatis ’22, Taheim Elohem ’23 (MVP), Levi Johnson ’24, Andrew Strickland ’23, Jack Barger ’22 (AllTournament), and Coach Webster Cannon.
5/6 Varsity Boys: Shelby League Champs Coaches Logan Taylor ’95 and Dub Sorrells ’11, Campbell McLean ’24 (MVP), Grant Barger ’24 (All-Tournament), Parker Taylor ’25, Milo Jacobs ’24, Ethan Dockery ’24 (AllTournament), Edward Scrugham ’24, Matheo Ibled ’25, Harry Word ’24, Aiden Walker ’24, and Porter Martin ’24.
7/8 Varsity Girls: Shelby League Champs Coach Morgan Slatery, Cate Ciaramitaro ’22 (MVP), Maggie Taylor ’22 (All-Tournament), Ava Cohen ’22, Nora Jacobs ’22, Sophia Wilson ’22 (All-Tournament), Brooke Bechtel ’22, Martha Mitchell ’23, and Stella Dyer ’23.
5/6 Varsity Girls: Shelby League Champs Coach Ariel Laws ’03, Sarah Jordan Houseal ’24 (AllTournament), Zoey High ’24, Emerson Callahan ’24 (MVP); Eloise West ’25 (All-Tournament), Emily Loa ’25, Eleanor Fore ’25, Scarlet Malone ’25, Zoe Pretzer ’25, and Coach Allyson Campbell.
7/8 JV Girls: PAA League Champions Coach Kallan Klinger, Bella McAdams ’23, Caroline Byrnes ’23, Betsy Halliday ’22, Anna Ratton ’23, Cat Carney ’22, Eliza Roberts ’23, and Ana Thompson ’22.
5/6 JV Girls: PAA League Runner-Up Front row: Morgan Lambert ’25, Ella Smith ’25; middle row: Ella Kate Schwager ’25, Lucy Unglesby ’24, Anna Cochran ’25, Corinne Richardson ’24, Poppy Schnacke ’24, Celia Floyd ’25; back row: Coach Jamie Moore, Lily Woodmansee ’24, and Coach Ashley Gordon.
NEW BABY SAINTS! Pre-Kindergarten Teacher Blair Connor and husband George welcomed a baby girl, Gray Connor, on November 5. Fourth Grade Teacher Amanda Meyer and husband Chad welcomed a baby girl, Maelynn “Mae” Meyer, on December 7.
Pre-Kindergarten Third Grade Teacher Carrie Galphin and husband Patrick Assistant Teacher Kam welcomed a baby girl, Crosby Carter Galphin, on December 22. Johnson and husband Patrick welcomed a baby Little Lukers Teacher Meg Burress ’05 and husband Austin boy, Ezra, on March 5. welcomed a baby girl, Henley Patricia Burress, on January 5.
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LUKERS FOR LIFE ALUMNI NEWS
Cal Edge lives in Memphis and is the vice president of Edge Biologicals Inc. He is also the proud uncle of Kyser Adams ’31.
Mike Parker is an affiliate broker at The FIRM, a Memphis real estate company.
Drew Flaherty graduated with a master’s degree in data science from Vanderbilt University in May 2021. He lives in Nashville and works for Deloitte.
’81 Audrey Duff Overstreet lived and worked in NYC, Austin, and Washington, D.C. before getting married and settling in Spokane, Wash. She is a local arts writer, city arts commissioner, and community theater board member. She and husband Chip are raising three wonderful children, Connie Mack (12), Duff (17), and Sadie (14).
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Virginia Gary Sharp, a lifetime member of the MultiMillion Dollar Club, joined Ware Jones Realtors earlier this year. She brings more than 20 years of experience as a Memphis realtor. SPRING 2022
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Sophie Stubblefield Bracewell is owner and designer of Sophie Bracewell Design. She helps women start and grow creative businesses through strategic brand and website design.
Catherine Knight wed Andrew Tarsi on November 20, 2021. Three GSL alumnae served as bridesmaids in the wedding: Abby Knight '09, Claire Pendergrass Margaret Grace Haltom Williamson '07, and Grace was named to the Memphis Norcross Niclosi '07. The Flyer’s 20 < 30 Class of couple resides in Nashville. 2022. She is the Director of Emergency Rent Assistance and Housing Policy at The Works Inc. As quoted in the Flyer: “Urban planning to me is all about building relationships and working in partnership with communities,” says Haltom. “I wanted to start my planning career working in the city I knew best, my hometown.”
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Skip Aymett accepted a position at Astrazeneca in statistical programming in late phase CVRM (Cardiovascular, Renal, Metabolism) and moved from Memphis to Rockville, Md., for the new job.
Tunkie Saunders, a chemical engineering manager at Redwood Materials, made the 2022 Forbes 30 Under 30 List. Saunders lives in Reno, Nev., and leads metallurgy development at Redwood Materials, a Nevada-based company building a lithium-ion battery recycling process.
Memphis attorney Nick Rice recently became a Certified Family Law Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Board certification is the highest qualification an attorney can achieve. He is one of 135 attorneys currently certified in family law by the NBTA in the United States.
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Amy Deshaies Sharp wrote and illustrated a children’s picture book, The Impossible Sleepover, which was published by the Memphis Zoo in the fall. She did a special book reading at GSL for our senior kindergartners before reading and signing books in December at the Memphis Zoo.
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’05 Meg Stephenson Burress and husband Austin welcomed their second child, Henley Patricia, on January 5 (see photo in Saints Superlatives, page 25).
Stephanie Pierotti married Andrew Word in a backyard ceremony at her home in Memphis on April 17, 2021.
After graduating with her masters in May 2020, Maya Todd is working as an account executive for the Memphis Hustle, the Grizzlies' G-League team. She assists with planning and executing theme nights, works community events, and much more.
’11 Collin Hall started a lighting design internship in March at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, one of the premiere Shakespeare festivals in the United States.
’12 Matt Flaherty will graduate in May with a master’s degree in data science from Vanderbilt University.
’13 Callan Truitt is a Church Health scholar working at The Well (their Pediatric Prevention & Wellness Program) with children ages 6 weeks to 12 years old. She graduated from the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in biology and minor in Spanish, and plans to attend medical school.
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#LukersforLife! Spotted at an SEC football game this fall: Marshall Jones, Mary Woodmansee, Edward Henley, and Benjamin Freeman.
ALUMNI NEWS
Tess Emerson will graduate from the University of Kentucky in May. She has accepted her first RN position at UK Markey Cancer Center on the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit beginning in June. She was destined for nursing, if this GSL PK photo is any indication!
Mary Woodmansee completed a two-month tax internship at Pricewaterhouse Coopers in Manhattan in March. She will graduate in May from the University of Mississippi with a degree in accounting and start graduate school there this fall.
’16 Isabelle Sharp is enjoying Fayetteville while enrolled in the Walton Honors program at the University of Arkansas.
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Elliott Wilson (pictured with his mom Noell) is graduating from Oxford High School this May. He will attend Middlebury College in Vermont this fall to study international relations and Spanish.
’18 CBHS seniors Ethan Cupples-Christensen, Warner Davidson, Jake Ryan, Carter Strickland, Lawson Vaughan, and Eli Walker earned Honor Roll status for the second quarter of the 2021-22 school year.
Jake Ryan placed first overall for his third straight year as a member of the CBHS cross country team, which earned the regional championship title in the fall.
Carter Strickland appeared in Bus Stop at CBHS. Lawson Vaughan received a Silver Key award and two honorable mentions for photography in the Mid-South Scholastic Art Awards.
Middle School Performing Arts Teacher Leslie Reddick saw Maeve Karnes stage manage Mary Poppins at St. Mary’s. Class of 2018 Saints at the St. Mary’s prom this spring! Back row: Lawson Vaughan, Carter Strickland, Warner Davidson, Evans Culpepper, Eli Walker, Chris Bird; front row: Lilly Linkous, Ellie Smith, Mary Morrow, Addison Wilson, and Merrill Ford.
’19 Aislinn Choo and Leslie Reddick at St. Mary’s performance of Mary Poppins this spring. She appeared earlier in the year in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Former Saints star Maxine Engel was named Player of the Game as a freshman member of the women's basketball team at The George Washington University in February. SPRING 2022
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CBHS juniors Cutter Gallagher, Britton Hare, Braden Haynes, Gus Schaffler, and Graham Springer earned Honor Roll status for the second quarter of the 2021-22 school year.
Kylie Jackson was inducted into the Charles P. Jester Chapter of the National Honor Society at Central High School in February. She also recently competed in the National High School Cheerleading Championships with the CHS Cheer Squad (of which she is a third-year member) in Orlando. MUS juniors Andrew Jones and Max Mascolino were inducted this spring into the school’s Cum Laude Society, the highest academic honor students in the school can receive. Mary Faith Sharp is enjoying her junior year at Hutchison, where she is on the trap team.
CBHS sophomore Jackson Saatkamp earned Honor Roll status for the second quarter of the 2021-22 school year.
Marley White won first place at the MUS Winter Invitational Fencing Tournament and received an E rating in epeé for his win. He competed against 20 other people from all over Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
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Hutchison students Sara Kate Burnett ’18 and Emery Brown ’19 met Ms. Reddick this spring to support former Luker castmates involved with the St. Mary’s production of Mary Poppins. The two appeared on stage in Sweeney Todd at MUS in the fall.
CBHS freshmen Benjamin Berntson, Will Dunlap, Gavin Jellow, Charlie Kofahl, Christopher Morice, and Gregory New earned Honor Roll status for the second quarter of the 202122 school year. Lanie Schaffler was named to the Honor Roll list this fall and was recently inducted into the Beta Club at St. Agnes Academy. A mini-Luker reunion after a performance of As You Like It at Hutchison this fall: Leslie Reddick, Zelia Cedeno-Avila ’20, Lucy Hettinger ’18, Emery Brown ’19, and Sara Kate Burnett ’18.
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Lily Karnes was on campus in November to perform Christmas songs with the St. Mary’s Concert Choir during Celebration.
Longtime GSL coach/teacher/administrator Nick Scully was on campus recently to brainstorm about the 75th Anniversary with our Alumni Executive Board. Front row, Mark Griffin '98, Scully, Audrey Webster '05, Kendall Franklin '04, Virginia Sharp '85, and Abby Huber '10; back row: Matt Sights '01, Chad Cunningham '01, Alex Boggs '02.
Last year’s Student Council Presidents George Brewer and Lydia Ford and classmates were on campus in the fall for our annual 9th Grade Yearbook Signing event, including the dedication to Ms. Angela.
Angela Meredith, Leslie Reddick, Ian Reddick ’10, and Debbie Callahan went to see Carter Strickland ’18 in The Lightning Thief at CBHS this spring.
Leslie Reddick at Radium Girls, a Crosstown High theater production directed by Thomas Kvande ’18 and featuring Brooke Routen ’21.
*Alumni are listed by the year of the class with which they would have graduated from GSL, even if they left before their final year.
Six Saints alumni (five of whom coached GSL basketball teams this winter) helped stack the faculty team in our annual student-faculty game before Christmas break. From left, Mark Hampton '07 (7/8 JV Boys), Will Ansbro '10 (assistant for 7/8 JV Boys), Dub Sorrells '11 (assistant for 5/6 Varsity Boys), Andrew Sichting '15 (5/6 JV and Combo Boys), Gentry Harwood '15 (assistant for 5/6 JV and Combo Boys), and Keaton Morris '01.
IN MEMORIAM Arthur Joseph Sutherland IV ’80 May 23, 1964 - December 16, 2021
Arthur Sutherland, 57, of Memphis, passed away on December 16 after a brave battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Arthur Joseph Sutherland III and Theresa Bervoets Sutherland, and brother James Patrick Sutherland. Art is survived by his wife Dana, his stepdaughter Robyn Arthur in 8th grade, 1979 Ladd, his sister Kathryn Manning Sutherland ’86, and his brother Andrew Sutherland ’87. He leaves behind a host of dear family and wonderful friends, including many fellow alumni. Art was a hard-working, hard-playing, fiercely loyal friend, son, brother, cousin, uncle, husband, and stepfather. A lifelong Memphian and proud Vols fan, Art's kindness and generosity of spirit fostered lasting relationships and delightful memories with family, childhood friends, and those who were lucky enough to work, grill, or camp with him. Art's family and friends will miss his smile, his laugh, his hugs, his precious dimples, and his love of the "Naked Bootleg." Well done, Art Mo! We will see you again.
Robert Lee Jordan ’81 Robert Jordan of Memphis passed away in January. A noted Memphis musician – known to many as Bobby Memphis – Robert was a loyal Saint whose cheerful presence could always be counted on at GSL events, from alumni reunions to the school’s Lisa Lassandrello 5K Memorial races. The following is Robert in 9th grade, 1981 excerpted from a Facebook post by his brother, Mark Jordan ’85, with Mark’s permission. He also leaves behind brother David Jordan ’81. “Robert had an unbelievably tough go of it in recent years, but he packed a lot into the good years he had. He deeply cherished the many friendships and memories he developed over decades spent on the local and international music scenes. More recently he forged a second life as a professional student working towards his Ph.D. in applied linguistics, and he felt just as much affection for the many relationships – mentors, colleagues, and students – that he forged there. I suspect, however, that Robert was most happy and most at home on the road, biking across continents, making friendships and breaking bread with fellow travelers, most of whom he hasn't encountered since, but who I like to think, on a rainy day or over a beer, will nevertheless sense his absence.”
SPRING 2022
The Anchor
29
Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal School 246 S. Belvedere Blvd. Memphis, TN 38104 gslschool.org
GSL’s Pep Club, along with the many Saints who filled the Dogpound for Fan 5 games this year, led the way in elevating school spirit! From left, Eighth Graders Ava Cohen, Cate Ciaramitaro, Brooke Bechtel, Sophia Wilson, Maggie Taylor, Nora Jacobs, Ana Thompson, Tate Robertson, Jack Barger, Thomas McGoff, Jay Clark, Carter Wyatt, Trent Heehs, Preston Norris, and Will Fogerty (as the Saints mascot). Photo by Middle School Science Teacher and Pep Club
Advisor Morgan Slatery
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