To Educate and Inspire Young People to Become Thoughtful, Creative, Lifelong Learners and Self-Disciplined, Responsible, Caring Citizens
2023–24 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Meredith Thompson '94, President
Merrie Clark Alexander
Ripley Bickerstaff
Caldwell Collins
Jessica Darden '96
Will Greathouse
Ben Heavrin
Susan Leschen '83
Thomas McDaniel
Jeff Moats '94
Whit Moloney
Drew Oldham
Melanie Paddon
Tim Reynolds
Russell Riebeling
Lyndsey Rollins '99
Patrick Schuermann
Jim Toth
CONTRIBUTORS
Dr. Braden Bell, Jay Codispoti, Nick Coury (Photography), Mike Delevante, Kristin Dixon, Dr. Eric Fecht, Peyton Hoge (Photography), Ruthie Lowney ‘96, Steve Lowry (Photography), Corby Lucas, Kimberly Manz (Photography), Jeff Moats ‘94, Miles Hartline, Suzanne Nahay, Lauren Prince, Misty White
DEAR HARDING ACADEMY COMMUNITY,
As a reader of Harding Academy’s annual magazine, I’ve always looked forward to diving deeper into stories of student and teacher success, getting an inside look at the arts and athletics programs, and discovering our alumni’s contributions to the world.
This year, I have the honor of introducing the new issue, which, as always, looks back at the milestones of the previous year and generates enthusiasm for what’s ahead. It’s a fantastic way of documenting our community’s achievements, honoring our traditions, and initiating next steps as we move wholeheartedly into the new school year.
We’ve generated incredible momentum, and there’s much to celebrate.
This summer, we welcomed Micheline Dutil-Hoffmann as Interim Head of School Consultant. She brings phenomenal experience as a lifelong educator (and learner, of course), and we’re thrilled she is here. We appreciate her commitment to our community code, her alignment with our strategic pillars, and most importantly her passion for educating and nurturing children.
Over the past year, we broke ground on Phase 1 of our campus master plan: a new home for PreK, Kindergarten, Pursuit, and Admissions, which is on track to deliver next school year. We made incredible progress on the Innovation Lab, for which our tremendous staff has developed thoughtful programming that will impact the whole school. The 2023-24 Harding Fund had record-breaking participation and raised more than ever. Admissions numbers continue to rise, and high school placement was a big success, as always!
While bittersweet, we also celebrated the retirements of Anne Swift and Patti Wright. These educators exemplify the Harding way – they set the standard for today and tomorrow. I am a proud Harding alum, and Patti was one of my first teachers. She was the architect of the Harding Community Code – the one who documented the principles that shaped me as a young man and continue to inspire the entire Harding community. Today, that includes my daughters Ella Grace ’27 and Lark ’29.
So, it’s quite easy, looking back and forward all at once. As a Harding alumnus and parent, I’m constantly remembering and reflecting on my formative years: the relationships built, lessons learned, and character defined. I see this happening for my daughters now in ways both familiar and new. And I’m beyond encouraged about what’s ahead.
It’s still true that at Harding, every child is known, and you can see that in the pages of this magazine. Everything we do is built on our motto to inspire the mind and nurture the spirit – and to do so together, bound by the integrity of our community code.
I hope you’ll enjoy the look back that these pages offer and that you’ll join me in enthusiastically welcoming Micheline, supporting our faculty and staff, and cheering on our children in this new school year.
With gratitude,
Jeff Moats '94
President, Harding Academy Board of Trustees 2024-25
THE HARDING ACADEMY MISSION
Welcome to this edition of Excellentia. As I learn about and reflect on the 2023-24 school year at Harding Academy, I am reminded of the fact that hope, resilience, and positive attitudes abound on this campus. With a team of dedicated professionals in education and a talented support team, our students and their families are in good hands. There is hope, joy, and energy everywhere I look.
“Hope is the companion of power, and the mother of success; for who so hopes has within him the gift of miracles.” Samuel Smiles, circa 1859
Mr. Smiles was on to something special indeed. These words exemplify the strong and bold attitude that Harding strives to share with all students and stakeholders. Whether power is visible through active learning in the classroom or at the NOP, during service projects, in community on the athletic field or in the arts – we are all working to ensure that each student finds his/her power and uses it to reach for success. Hope is visible each day, when a first grader reads a new complex sentence on her own and can explain the nuances of its meaning, or an 8th grader who is able to state and defend his position when debating on the Model UN stage. We see hope in action as we witness the construction of a new building to house our youngest students on campus. Hope, power, and successes are all around us each day at Harding Academy.
J E Stuart wrote: “Of all virtues that we can least afford to lose hold of in our time, that of hope seems to be the most needed.” Hope buoys us. It allows us to enthusiastically embrace all the possibilities that the future promises. Harding’s hope for our community is alive and well. Hope is one of the greatest gifts which we can offer the next generation of leaders. Let us be grateful for our past accomplishments and look forward with hope to the next chapter!
Micheline Dutil-Hoffmann
Interim Head of School Consultant
THE JOURNEY BEGINS HERE
HARDING ACADEMY'S UNIQUE MODEL
HARDING ACADEMY'S PREK-8 MODEL PRIORITIZES the development of each student, preparing them not just for academic success, but for a lifetime of learning and growth.
Our approach centers around fostering two key mentalities: a lifelong learner mentality and a true growth mindset. From the earliest years in PreK through eighth grade, we instill in our students the belief that learning is a journey that continues long after formal education. We empower them to embrace challenges, persevere through setbacks, and recognize the value of hard work in achieving their goals.
At Harding Academy, we understand that success extends beyond academic achievement. That's why we place equal emphasis on nurturing our students' social-emotional
development. Through a supportive and inclusive environment, we encourage them to be present, ask questions, make mistakes, and simply be children. We believe that by fostering a sense of belonging and emotional well-being, we lay the foundation for confident, resilient individuals who are equipped to thrive in any endeavor they pursue.
Our exceptional teachers play a pivotal role in this process. Responsive to the needs of each student, they leverage both anecdotal observations and standardized testing data to tailor instruction and support to individual learners. Through engaging classroom experiences and project-based learning, students are empowered to become critical thinkers, effective communicators, and collaborative problem-solvers.
Micheline Dutil with Jean Oldfield, one of the Harding Academy founders
ATHLETICS
Harding Academy offers 21 competitive team sports and numerous interscholastic activities. Every middle school student who wants to participate competitively can do so. The mission of Harding athletics is to provide an opportunity for every student to grow in confidence and character in a supportive, team environment with a focus on fundamental skill development, healthy competition, and building positive, meaningful relationships.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
At certain touch points during their middle school years, students engage in memory-making moments off campus. From overnight grade level retreats out of state to class trips connected to instructional content, these experiences are filled with encounters and learning opportunities that students remember for a lifetime. Engaging with peers may be a big part of the fun, but so are the lived experiences as students challenge themselves on rope courses at Barefoot Republic, wade into marine life science at Dauphin Island, and engage with lawmakers in Washington DC. Orchestrated by faculty during the summer, students may even opt into international travel where students are immersed in history, breathe in cultures far and wide, and taste the world around them.
SECONDARY SCHOOL COUNSELING
Well-rounded, self-assured lower- and middle-schoolers grow into capable, confident high-schoolers. Harding Academy fosters this development through its unique PreK–8 model, as we focus solely on the academic, social, and developmental needs of students ages 4 to 14. Harding’s reputation for nurturing excellent students is our biggest advantage when it comes to placing students in great secondary schools. At Harding, we walk families through the process of looking ahead. We know our students — their strengths, their weaknesses, their motivators — and that makes a big difference as we help parents navigate their child’s journey.
THE ARTS PROGRAM
The visual arts program at Harding Academy allows students to explore, create, discover, and respond to the world around them. Students naturally are drawn to visually stimulating content, which allows them to process and learn from their environment. The aim of the visual art program is to foster and encourage the growth and development of student’s visual comprehension and creation skills. Similarly, the performing arts program at Harding Academy allows students to find a safe and enriching space to learn, create, grow, speak out, and take risks. Current students and alumni speak often of finding their voice, growing in their confidence and gaining the courage to explore new passions through performing arts at Harding. In this inclusive and welcoming environment, leadership roles abound and real-life experiences in design, sound, and lighting are available for students to grow into and learn. Every aspect of the performing arts program is meant to develop resiliency and empathy through vulnerability and awareness of others.
JOYFUL. CONFIDENT. GRATEFUL.
As a family of the inaugural PreK class at Harding Academy, what motivated your family to select Harding for your child's education?
The moment you step on the campus, you feel the warmth of this community. It felt like a safe and loving environment, and we could sense that while we were on our very first tour of the campus.
How would you describe the Harding community, and what are some of your favorite Harding memories?
A word that is often used to describe Harding is nurturing, and that really captures the spirit of the place. Claire has felt so loved and supported every year she has been on campus. Favorite memories are volunteering at Field Day, class parties in the lower school, and watching the joy on the children’s faces as they perform in the school plays.
How did Harding’s approach to education influence your decision? Why was the PreK-8 structure important to you?
When we selected Harding, we loved the idea that the middle school students could develop into leaders and learn from those years when they are the oldest on the campus and have the younger kids look up to them as role models. That has certainly unfolded as we imagined, and we are grateful for that.
How have extracurricular activities impacted Claire’s experience? Are there any particular programs or events that have been especially meaningful?
Like so many students before her, Claire has grown so much from the tremendous gift of participating in the theater department at Harding since she was in the first grade. The way that Dr. Braden Bell, Grace Wilkinson, Katy Stumpf, and Sara Neuss pour so much of themselves into guiding the children through these wonderful productions is astounding. These teachers give so much of themselves, their time, and their knowledge. Claire has learned so much from being both on the stage crew and in the cast.
Another gift that Harding offers is for children to try as many sports as they want with the school’s no-cut policy. Claire has always loved tennis, but she tried two new teams that she had never experienced before — swimming and track — and found out that she loved both!
How do you feel about Claire’s preparedness for the next stage of her education?
Harding has prepared Claire extremely well academically, and we feel confident that she is ready for whatever high school brings her way.
Has there been a moment where a specific teaching strategy or classroom activity left a lasting impression on Claire?
Jennifer Weinblatt hosts an after-school club called “Writer’s Group” where she gives the students writing prompts and they work on and share creative writing pieces. Claire has been a huge fan of this club in middle school. Mrs. Weinblatt encourages and guides the children through these writing exercises with neverending enthusiasm and cheerfulness year after year. I think that it has enriched Claire’s creativity and her writing ability, and her willingness to try new things with creative writing. She just loves spending time with Mrs. Weinblatt, too!
Reflecting on your overall experience and as Claire’s 8th grade year begins, what has been the most rewarding aspect of being part of this school community?
It is really hard to pick one thing. At the center of Claire’s successful Harding experience has been the excellence of the teachers at Harding. They are truly gifted educators, and they give all of themselves to their students. PreK teacher Anne Zuberer, a talented artist and educator, is exceptional. I remember being astounded when tiny Claire would come home talking about Jackson Pollock and other artists that Anne shared with them. Anne is a gifted teacher but also loves the children so very much. I was so grateful for how very much she loved the kids and cared for them so well.
Each year, Claire continued to have exceptional teachers who were both phenomenal at teaching academic topics, but also making learning joyful. In kindergarten, Anne Swift was “going bananas” and dancing on the desks, making kindergarten an absolute delight while teaching Claire how to spell. It just kept happening – incredible teachers that shaped Claire and made school and learning a happy experience. They all showered her with love and encouragement, and it was a remarkable gift. We are so grateful for every single teacher she has had at Harding.
CARRIE ELLIS LOOKS BACK AT DAUGHTER CLAIRE’S ’25 PREK-8 EXPERIENCE
Claire Ellis '25, Miriam Russ '25, Anne Zuberer (Director of PreK), Karson Speyer '25, and Oscar McKenzie '25
CAMPAIGN UPDATE
PHASE 1 OF OUR CAMPUS MASTER PLAN OFFICIALLY commenced with a ceremonial groundbreaking on February 27, 2024. Five hundred students adorned in white hard hats and yellow construction vests gathered alongside our entire faculty and staff, both present and past trustees, and steadfast supporters of our school who have generously contributed their time, skills, and resources. This inaugural phase aims to establish a dedicated area for our growing PreK, Kindergarten, and Pursuit programs, alongside the creation of a community courtyard featuring playground facilities and an outdoor classroom easily accessible to our lower school community.
Initiating this stage of Harding's campus master plan marks the beginning of the next chapter in Harding's ongoing transformation as both a school and a focal point of our community. The Board of Trustees has judiciously guided
the school towards this decision to move forward, while supporting the administrative team in overseeing the project's progress. The faculty has contributed valuable insights to the design process, and numerous donors have made significant contributions towards funding this phase of the campus master plan.
Having dedicated a combined total of more than a century to serving Harding Academy, Patti Wright, Anne Swift, and Ann Lyle will be immortalized by naming the new facility in their honor. These three exceptional educators have left an indelible mark on generations of Harding students and parents through their boundless love, nurturing, and exceptional teaching skills. They epitomize the very essence of the Harding experience with unwavering dedication and wholehearted commitment.
GYM RENOVATION
OVER THE PAST SEVERAL YEARS, WE HAVE COLLABORATED with Hastings Architecture to develop and commence construction on a new campus master plan. The initial phases of this project include relocating our Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Pursuit programs to the front of the campus and addressing additional campus needs. The third phase will focus on the Schwartz Center, addressing our need for new athletic and wellness facilities.
Knowing that it will take a few years to reach this phase, several generous donors have stepped forward to help fund the renovation of our existing gym and gym lobby. With this support, we have installed new bleachers, lighting, and scoreboards; added padded chairs and a floor runner for team seating; refurbished the lobby floors in the Schwartz Center; repainted the gym; and refinished the gym floors.
These upgrades have instilled a renewed sense of pride in our students, which was evident as they noticed these improvements for the first time at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year.
SHAPING YOUNG MINDS IN TECHNOLOGY:
A Q&A with Technology Integration Specialist Teacher Andrew Ballow ‘06
ANDREW BALLOW IS BOTH AN ALUMNUS OF THE H arding Academy class of 2006 and a Harding educator since 2014. As one of the first faces that students and families encounter each morning, Andrew's presence is a constant source of support and inspiration. His classroom is not confined to four walls; the entire Harding campus is his educational playground. From the moment students are introduced to technology in kindergarten until they put on their engineer hats in eighth grade, Andrew is there to guide, support, and inspire.
CODING IN SECOND GRADE
Andrew introduced coding to second graders using Ozobots. Through engaging exercises, students learned to direct their Ozobots using drawing and programming skills, blending fun with foundational tech education.
ANNUAL EGG DROP TEST
A highlight of the sixth-grade curriculum is the annual Egg Drop Test. This beloved project challenges students to design structures that protect an egg from breaking when dropped. It's an exercise in engineering and teamwork, as students collaborate, problem-solve, and trust each other throughout the process.
BUILDING CITIES FOR THE FUTURE
In eighth grade, students delve into urban planning by exploring how cities like Nashville are designed. After learning about concentric and grid city concepts, they are tasked with creating their own city models: integrating various academic disciplines and honing their creativity and critical thinking skills.
Middle school students researched and discussed what makes a bridge structurally sound. In groups, students discussed how to construct their bridge and designed a blueprint. And with a limited supply of popsicle sticks and some wood glue, they brought their designs to life. Students employed teamwork and critical thinking skills as they put each bridge to the test with various weights.
Andrew’s approach to teaching is hands-on and studentcentered. In the lower school, he uses technology to foster a sense of community and encourage learning through action. Students not only learn to use technology safely and responsibly but also discover how to turn their dreams into reality. By the time students reach middle school, they are ready to apply the skills they've gained to build robots, create videos, and engage in projects that integrate math, science, and world languages.
Andrew’s dedication to fostering a love for technology and learning is evident in every aspect of his teaching. His efforts ensure that Harding students are not only prepared for the future but are also inspired to become lifelong learners and innovators.
How did your experience as a Harding student influence your decision to pursue a career in technology and education?
I was, of course, very fortunate to have many amazing teachers throughout my education, so my outlook on teachers and education as a whole was certainly a positive one. I have always had a lot of respect for my teachers and Harding specifically, so I consider myself very lucky to be able to be a part of that. Harding played a foundational role in my education, and even during a time when technology education was very different from what it is now, I was given the opportunities to start to explore my strengths and interests and who I was as a person.
How do you tailor your curriculum to be age-appropriate for the diverse range of students in kindergarten through eighth grade?
Having the opportunity to help lay the foundations of their formal technology education starting in kindergarten and up through the years is certainly helpful in guiding that process. This helps create a natural continuation and strengthening of skills while incorporating new skills appropriately. Communication with the homeroom teachers is also a key factor. This allows me to tailor their projects and activities to help incorporate various things they are learning in other classes. Given the nature of technology in today’s world, one of my favorite aspects about teaching it is that the needs and abilities of students are constantly changing and growing. Their skills and interactions with technology are always evolving. Learning to navigate that change in a safe and responsible manner is an important constant in their technology education.
How does your dual role as a teacher and alumnus help you in building a stronger connection with the school community, including parents and colleagues?
I have so many wonderful memories from my time as a Harding student, many of which are shared with colleagues and members of the Harding community I see regularly. These shared experiences are always fun to reminisce over. I love to tell stories, so I rarely get through a day at Harding without telling some story of my time here. I really enjoy connecting with the students over these memories as well. There are so many Harding traditions and experiences that allow me to connect with my students in a fun and unique way. I love to tell the kindergarteners at the beginning of the year about how I was once a kindergartener at Harding too, and that always gets a lot of fun reactions.
Can you share any specific moments or teachers from your time as a Harding student that inspired your passion for technology?
I have so many memories that I think foreshadowed a passion for technology at Harding. First of all, I still fondly remember my lower school computer teachers, Kathi Oster and Mr. McClarey. Educational technology was certainly very different back then, but they paved the way for me to approach using technology with curiosity and a level of confidence that is important for learning. I particularly remember a few projects with Mr. McClarey that were really amazing. One that sticks out was when everyone in our class got to contribute to an album that we put together using songs we made on GarageBand, which was no small feat at
Andrew with lower school classmates Annual Egg Drop Test
the time. It was a really fun project that allowed us to work creatively while learning technical skills, which is something I still value greatly.
In middle school, I am sure many from around my time can remember when we would wheel in for certain research projects and papers. Even though it meant a big workday, I was always so excited to get to work with the laptops. I have several memories of students having some technical issues and Matt Powers coming to the rescue, something that still happens. He certainly set a positive example for what it means to be technical support in a school setting, and he continues to do so.
I also can’t help but mention that I have many memories of working on the desktop computers in Leslie Higgins’ (now Embry) room. My friends Patrick Howell '06 and Matthew Maloney '06 and I started playing around with how web pages were built and learning some HTML code. She was very kind to let us explore that interest of ours, especially when it probably looked like we were trying to break something. Patrick and Matthew are still good friends of mine and both are doing some really amazing things in the technology field.
How do you encourage creativity and innovation within your technology classes?
My favorite types of projects are when I can introduce something that allows for some sort of creative freedom. When I first introduce an app or software, I like to give the students some time to just play around with it before we start a project. This gives them time to build confidence and understanding with the tools so that they can begin to explore the creative options it offers as well. With so many
abilities and options that the use of technology gives us in the classroom, you can’t help but embrace the idea that there will always be a new idea or approach to something. In their middle school Design class, I try to encourage the students to take risks with their work, whether it’s an engineering project or a technology-based project. I start the sixth graders with the egg drop project because I know they can all shove a box full of cotton balls, but I encourage them to try something new and risky even if it means breaking some eggs. I would much rather see a “failed” innovative approach over something they have done and seen before. I hope this helps them embrace the idea that some of the best ideas come from many failures.
What technology tools or platforms do you find most effective in teaching technology concepts to young learners?
As I mentioned earlier, programs that allow students to build and create often get the best engagement. There are several I like to use depending on the age. I really enjoy working with the My Story app with the younger ages, which allows them to create their own story books with drawings, stickers, pictures, and voice recordings. This can be used in so many cool and creative ways, but it can also make practicing things like math facts a little more exciting. The Explain Basics app is great for similar reasons for slightly older students. Students have a lot of creative control with apps like that while also advancing their technical skills.
I am also a big fan of platforms like CoSpaces and Scratch which teach coding skills in an approachable and creative manner. Students can create their own animations, video games, and 3D worlds, which opens the door to so many
possibilities. The option for block-style coding is great for building their skills in a less intimidating format. That said, they are still very technical programs that take a lot of perseverance and patience, and it is always so amazing to see what students are able to do with them.
How do you integrate technology with other subjects such as world language, history, etc.?
A lot of this comes from the many incredible teachers Harding has across our campus, and that makes it easy to stay clued into the work they are doing in their other classes. This allows me to incorporate those skills and knowledge into their technology projects in many different ways. There are of course many apps and software that assist in specific skills that I teach them how to navigate, but my favorite ones are more open-ended tools that allow them to incorporate their knowledge more creatively.
I also really enjoy when I get to directly collaborate with another teacher on a project. This allows them to utilize a lot of skills and knowledge into some of the most amazing creations. And even if the students are not working on something in my class, our teachers do a wonderful job of leveraging the skills the students have learned into their classwork, and I can help support them as they integrate those tools into their classes. Mrs. Derrick’s Spanish weather report is a great example of that.
Do you have any specific projects or initiatives that you’ve introduced to leave a lasting impact on the school, similar to how previous projects may have influenced you as a student?
One thing I have started doing in the grade levels with iPads is helping the students create a portfolio of their digital work on their Google accounts. At the end of each year, I help the students save a few technology class projects and any other digital work they want to their Google Drive accounts. I
particularly enjoy doing this because once they really start using their Google accounts in fourth grade, they can look back at some of the things they did. When they are in eighth grade they can look back at their “My Kindergarten Year” book with their own drawings and voice recordings. There are several projects that I hope to continue to do and continue to innovate on. There are some collaborative projects that are particularly important to me. One of them is the Food Truck project that Sara Neuss and I collaborate on in fifth grade. The students work as groups in their math and technology classes to put together the many aspects of running a food truck business. Ms. Neuss works with them on their math skills related to sales and profit while they utilize many technology skills to organize and build their business. They learn to navigate spreadsheets and work with 2D design tools to build their menu, logo, and blueprint. Then they combine all of that into a 3D model of their truck on CoSpaces where they can program different types of interactions. These trucks can even be viewed in AR and VR. The fifth graders do such an amazing job with this project, and I hope it continues to be a highlight.
What are you excited to see in the future for Harding’s technology program?
I am excited to see how Harding’s program continues to evolve and grow as the technology around us does the same. There will always be innovations and changes in the world of technology, and maintaining a safe and proper technology education is important in understanding how to navigate these changes. I am particularly excited to see what students will be able to create with these new innovations. Educational technology has come so far, and students can now print 3D models they have designed themselves and can edit their own green screen video. It’s so exciting to think about what they will be doing in the years to come.
JAKE MADDEN
Jake Madden, the eighth grade math and innovation teacher collaborates with Mr. Ballow to enhance the integration of essential and emerging technologies into the core curriculum. This partnership aims to equip students with the necessary skills for a continuously evolving educational system and workforce.
A JOURNEY OF GRATITUDE
EMBRACING
CULTURAL IMMERSION IN GUATEMALA
By Kristin Dixon, Learning Effectiveness Teacher
AS AN EDUCATOR WITH SEVENTEEN
years of teaching under my belt, I have always believed that education extends beyond the classroom. It is a dynamic and continuous process that is surrounded by experiences, interactions, and personal growth. Last summer, I was blessed with an extraordinary opportunity that epitomizes this belief: receiving the Frist Grant for Faculty Enrichment, allowing me and my family to travel to Guatemala in 2023. This grant was not merely a financial boost; it was a gateway to an enriching cultural immersion, a chance to meet and visit with our former exchange student, Mao Ortega’s family, and an invaluable experience that enriched my life and that of my family in profound ways.
THE HEARTFELT GRATITUDE
Firstly, I must express my heartfelt gratitude to the Frist family who started this offering in the fall of 2014. Their generosity is not just an investment in my personal and professional growth but also a testament to the bonds we build within the Harding community. It speaks volumes about the trust and respect they have for Harding Academy’s commitment and belief in the power of cultural exchange and diversity. This grant is a profound reminder that our roles as educators are valued and that the impact we have on our students and their families transcends the classroom.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CULTURAL EXCHANGE
Harding Academy has participated in a cultural exchange program since 2018 through an organization called Faces and Cultures. The Faces and Cultures program is designed to give Guatemalan students the opportunity to spend 7 weeks in our community. Over the years, Harding Academy has hosted a number of Guatemalan ambassadors who have built lasting relationships with their host families, just as we did with Mao. Traveling to Guatemala represented more than just a journey to a new country; it was a step into a world rich with history, traditions, and culture. As an educator, I strive to teach students about different cultures from the past and present, emphasizing the importance of understanding, appreciating, and celebrating diversity. This trip allowed me to immerse myself in a culture different from my own and bring back firsthand experiences to share with others.
MEETING AND TRAVELING WITH THE ORTEGA FAMILY
The most exciting aspect of this trip was the opportunity to meet and spend time with the Ortega family. It highlighted the beauty of cultural exchange and the lifelong connections it can create. Meeting Mao’s family in Guatemala City was a heartfelt reunion
that allowed me to witness their way of life, share stories, and deepen the bond that began here in the U.S. This personal connection undoubtedly enriched me and my family’s perspective and enabled us to trust them on our journey just as they had put their trust in us with their daughter.
DISCOVERING LAKE ATITLÁN
Our adventure began with a mountainous drive of twists and turns through small towns to the beautiful Lake Atitlán which is often described as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Surrounded by picturesque villages and volcanic landscapes, Lake Atitlán is a natural paradise. Each village around the lake has its own unique culture and traditions. We took a boat ride to one of these villages where we learned about the production of honey, chocolate, and traditional Guatemalan textiles. The local artisans shared stories about each of their skills which have been passed down through generations. This visit deepened my appreciation for indigenous cultures and their contributions to Guatemala’s rich heritage.
EXPLORING ANTIGUA
From Lake Atitlán, we traveled to Antigua, a city known for its wellpreserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture and its rich history. Walking through the cobblestone streets, we were surrounded by
beautiful colonial buildings, museums, vibrant markets, and volcanoes in the distance. Antigua’s charm lies not only in its physical beauty but also in its cultural depth. While there, we witnessed a parade of adults and children singing and dancing in the streets who were accompanied by marching bands playing both American pop and traditional Guatemalan music. The vibrant colors, traditional clothing, and celebratory spirit of parade participants and spectators was an authentic demonstration of cultural pride and enthusiasm.
VISITING THE FAMILY FARM AND HOME
Perhaps the most personal and meaningful aspect of my trip was visiting the Ortega’s family farm in the hills outside Guatemala City as well as their home in the city. The farm visit and dinner at their home in the city allowed us to reconnect with the family in a relaxed and natural environment, offering a glimpse into work, daily life, and family traditions. The farm, nestled in the hills, is not only a place of work but also a source of pride and heritage for the family. Mao’s father, Bernal, told his personal story of growing his agricultural business. He shared the risks, downfalls, and successes of his journey to becoming an egg producer and how his experiences shaped his life and provided him with a sense of well being as an individual, husband, and father. He toured us deeper into the hills where he pointed out coffee plants, and picked paternas and tamarind for us to taste; which is a new favorite of mine. We also were able to sit amongst 12,000 baby chicks and learn about the twenty-four seven process of raising and caring for them to be healthy and strong. It was one of the most enlightening and unforgettable days we had while we were in Guatemala. This entire experience provided me with a deeper understanding of the Ortega’s close-knit family bond, and a heartfelt reminder of the commonalities we share despite our different backgrounds.
FRIST GRANT 2023
A BROADER PERSPECTIVE
The time spent in Guatemala was a reminder of the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones. For me, it reinforced the importance of having a global outlook and it allowed me to be part of a family that extends beyond traditional ties. For my children, it sparked a newfound curiosity and enthusiasm for learning about others and inspired them to embrace new experiences and develop a deeper growth mindset.
As an individual and educator, I have always strived to cultivate a desire to be a lifelong learner in the lives of my children and students, encouraging them to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and celebrate diverse perspectives. The trip to Guatemala embodied these principles. It was a tangible example of the rewards that come from being open to new experiences and willing to learn from others. I will forever be committed to continuing the cycle of learning and celebration that defines me both personally and professionally. And I will without a doubt be forever grateful for this remarkable journey.
Allison Fletcher Germany/France
Catherine Vrettos - Arizona
Kim Keller - Morocco/Portugal
Kristin Dixon - Guatemala
Nicole Boylan Vienna/Edinburgh
Tara Taylor - California
Victoria Bahr - Italy
Kristin Dixon, Poppy '29, and Coco '24
Kim Keller (Sixth Grade Geography Teacher)
Nicole Boylan (Eighth Grade US History Teacher), and Max Boylan ‘21
Every fall, Harding middle school students campaign and vote for student council positions. Students create posters, slogans, and give a speech to the middle school. During the year, the student council meets once a week to organize spirit week, plan community events, and work on their class initiatives.
EDWIN WARNER PARK SERVICE DAY
In the fall, first grade students studied the local environment and parks near Nashville. As part of their environmental science study and service learning, they served Warner Parks by planting trees, maintaining trails, removing invasive plants, and helping keep the park clean.
DOG TREAT DRIVE
In the spring, second grade concluded their animal unit with a day of making dog treats with their seventh grade buddies for the local Nashville Humane Association. As seventh graders helped measure ingredients, second graders took charge mixing and packaging treats. Seventh graders sold these treats during parent teacher conferences. All proceeds were donated to the Nashville Humane Association.
NEIGHBORHOOD THANKFULNESS DAY
Third grade students visited the residents of a local assisted living facility in the fall. To celebrate the season of giving thanks, students created gratitude turkeys with residents and sang songs.
RADNOR LAKE SERVICE DAY
In the spring, seventh graders helped park rangers at Radnor Lake remove fallen limbs and restore trails.
MCNEILLY CENTER FOR CHILDREN SUPPLY DRIVE
Throughout the year, eighth grade students hosted supply drives for one of their community partners, The McNeilly Center. In the spring and fall, they visited The McNeilly Center where they helped maintain the grounds and volunteered in the classroom.
2023–2024
8TH GRADE
Grant Alpert, Coco Dixon, Mateo Lyn-Cook, Robert Topping
The Harding House System divides the student body, staff, and faculty into 12 different houses. Each year, an eighth grader is elected as House Captain (or co-captain) for each house and leads activities, service efforts, and celebrations.
LANE: Charlotte Hefferan
SCHWARTZ: Maya Florie
MCPHERSON: Hannah Sides
FREEMAN: Elle Poole/Hayden Ligon
ANDERSON: Alexa McKay/Anne McCarley
BLACK: Penny Borinstein
DELOACHE: Hilary Fremont
DEWITT: Cece Hardin
OLDFIELD: Annie Thurman
STUART: Caroline Vrettos
STANFORD: Charlie George CRAIG: Claire McDaniel/Carter Schwarz
McNeilly Center for Children Supply Drive
A HARDING WELCOME TO JULIE FORTUNE
HARDING ACADEMY IS EXCITED to welcome our new Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management, Julie Fortune. Julie completed her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and Masters of Arts in Liberal Studies from the University of Memphis. Since 2016, Julie has served as the Director of Enrollment and Strategic Operations at Akiva School in Nashville where she has worn many hats and has a deep knowledge of what it takes to manage a school’s enrollment. Using data to help “tell the story” of a school, Julie has been able to successfully increase not just enrollment but also retention through her in-depth knowledge of the enrollment process and earning a great deal of trust from all parties involved. Through innovative and creative thinking, she has been able to capitalize on the impact that enrollment has on the entire school. A native Nashvillian, Julie possesses an intimate understanding of Harding's institutional workings alongside a deep awareness of the distinctive educational fabric specific to Nashville's landscape. We are excited to welcome Julie and her husband, Tony, and children, Tovah, Rex, and Axl, to Harding Academy.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Harding Academy is committed to supporting our faculty and staff as lifelong learners. Educators from the lower and middle school, in partnership with Director of Teaching and Learning Dr. Eric Fecht, embarked on another year of professional development to continue growing their skills and enhancing the learning experience for all.
2023-24 PDC Fund Allocations:
• Supporting two teachers with tuition assistance as they continue their education (to earn master’s degrees)
• Eighth grade English teacher Isbel Salgueiro attended the National Council for Teachers of English Conference (November 2023).
• Associate Lower School Director Polly Johnson and Director of Teaching and Learning Dr. Eric Fecht attended the annual SAIS Conference in Atlanta and participated in a school visit at the Mt. Vernon School (October 2023)
• P.E. teachers Anna Vogt and Zach Glotta attended TN Association for Physical Health Development (October 2023)
• Nurse Moira Clark attended a Tactical Emergency Care conference (December 2023)
• History teachers Nicole Boylan, Kim Keller, and Jay Crouch attended the National Council for Teachers of Social Studies Conference (December 2023)
• Third grade teacher Haley Wagner participated in a workshop on mindfulness and motivation (November 2023)
• World language teachers Mary McDonough, Brigida Derrick, Jordan Napier, and Victoria Bahr attended the TN World Language Teaching Conference (November 2023)
• Lauren Prince, Gretchen RuckerBanzhoff, Claire Green, and Kenneth Stephens attended the NAIS People of Color Conference (December 2023)
• Learning effectiveness teachers Lauren Wheelock and Kristin Dixon, and fourth grade writing teacher Katy Stumpf attended the Center for Literacy and Learning conference in New Orleans (February 2024)
• Third grade teachers Blythe Bryant and Haley Wagner, and kindergarten teacher Katie Kivett attended a TAIS Writing Conference (February 2024)
• Miles Hartline attended the CASE/ NAIS Conference (February 2024)
• Director of Lower School Laura Underwood attended the TAIS Neurodiversity Conference (February 2024)
• Eighth grade math and innovation teacher Jake Madden attended the International Technology and Engineering Educators Conference (March 2024)
• Director of Athletics Corby Lucas and Assistant Athletic Director Jason Embry attended the TN Interscholastic Athletic Conference (April 2024)
• Art teachers Bailey Woods and Karen Kwarciak attended the National Arts Educator Association Conference (April 2024)
• First grade teacher Natalie Sharpstone started a 60-hour Orton-Gillingham training program (runs through summer and into the 2024-25 school year)
• Sixth grade English teacher Jennifer Weinblatt attended workshops offered by Academy of American Poets (May 2024)
• Fifth grade science teacher Melissa Ferri attended a training at the Challenger Learning Center (June 2024)
RUSTI '84 AND TODD '83 GREENE CONTINUE THE HARDING TRADITION
What is your favorite Harding memory as a graduate and parent?
As a Harding eighth grade graduate myself and mother of the same, my favorite memory or “through line” has to be Mr. Folger’s seventh grade science project. Although it might conjure four-letter feelings to some—or to many—I see it as a rite of passage.
As I watched Mills’ work to find a topic, record data, write drafts, Zoom Mr. Folger, write more drafts, become frustrated then relieved, and finally happy, I recognized the importance of seeing the project through. Even if your fruit flies die or your data is wonky or the conclusion is inconclusive, there is a life lesson buried deep in the experience. One that you as a Harding grad and parent share with your children, but also, with the many Harding generations blessed by Ken Folger’s brilliance.
Why was it important for you to send Mills to Harding, particularly through the eighth grade?
To this day, many of my most cherished friends are those from Harding – as are many of Todd’s. There is a unique bond that we all share. Don’t get me wrong, kids will be kids and those memories stick around too! Adolescent growing pains aside, Harding was and is a place of warmth and safety, of trying and stretching, of validation and propulsion. As my sixth grade teacher Ms. Laura Shaeffer—now Ms. Underwood—has said, Harding strives to prepare a child making that person “ready to launch.”
As a student, education can feel like drudgery at times. However, as a parent, a quality education is a gift and a gateway. Sending Mills to Harding and having him graduate is one of my proudest moments. Harding has held him close for nine years. It is where he has literally grown up.
In the opening moments of the eight-grade graduation ceremony, when all of Harding’s teachers walk in, single file to take their seats, I became emotional (like I am while writing this) because in that line of familiarity, I saw Mills’ childhood – in each and every face. It’s then that you truly understand the impact of the K-8 model. And you cannot imagine a gift more beautiful.
As Harding alumni and parents, what has been the most valuable experience your family has taken from the Harding community?
Now and decades ago, the families drawn to Harding are very special and become, literally, your people. As a young student, my most valuable experience was my friends’ parents becoming my parents. They were my Northern star. And though many have passed, their memory and impact lives on.
As Harding parents, we too found circuity with this experience. Our dear friends from the Harding community will always be connected to us and to Mills, providing wonderful memories and forever impacting our lives.
THE HARDING SCHOLAR
THE HARDING SCHOLAR IS AWARDED TO THE STUDENT OR STUDENTS WITH THE HIGHEST GRADE POINT AVERAGE DURING THE MIDDLE SCHOOL YEARS.
I am grateful for the memories that I have spent with my friends. I am glad to be close with the 9-year club, but everyone in the Class of 2024 has played an important role in my school career. As a small class, we have been able to be close, reflecting on the times that made us laugh, cry, panic, smile, stand in awkward silence, frantically rush to do something that we forgot to do, compete, create, learn, live, and grow. Each person in the Class of 2024 has been able to shape our personalities, one way or another, to make the people that we are today. It is the friendships that we have made that have led to our accomplishments, and it is the friendships that we will keep to further our success
Leadership is engrained into you at Harding. When you are in middle school, and especially in eighth grade, you are constantly being told that you are the leaders of the school. You are told that the little kids look up to you during assemblies, during fire drills, and even during things like the play. You are taught that you need to demonstrate how to behave at these things, because you need to lead by example. And while this is true, we have also learned that leadership is taking responsibility, leadership is leading when people aren’t looking, leadership is comforting others. I learned this leadership by watching others, like the eighth graders last year, who showed me not only how I can lead in sports, but how the qualities translate into life. I also learned this leadership from the teachers at Harding. Every day, our teachers are subtly showing us how to make the right choices and how to take responsibility for mistakes they made. They are the ones who are really leading by example in our school. Think about how they always cheer for everyone at assemblies, even if the performers messed up a lot or played a lot of wrong notes. Our teachers are the biggest leaders of our school, and they deserve a big thank you for all that they do.
Todd '83 & Rusti '84 Greene with son Mills Greene '24
CAROLINE VRETTOS AND MARGIE CLARK
Margie Clark '24
2024 Harding Scholar
Caroline Vrettos '24 2024 Harding Scholar
Caroline Vrettos '24
Margie Clark '24
ART AWARDS
2024 ART AWARD RECIPIENTS
2024 HOLIDAY CARD
Oliver McDonald '31 Pastel Snowman
2024 GRANDPARENTS CHOCOLATE INVITATION
Riley Sluyters '30 Fall Landscape Painting
2024 GRANDPARENTS CHOCOLATE
“FAVOR ART” AWARD
Trey Sharer '29, Peter Costanza '29, Paris Pritchett '29, Grace Hardin '29, Sarah Rollins '29, and Mary Claire Hines '29
Georgia O'Keeffe Flowers
2024-25 PURCHASE AWARD
August Erickson '31
Still Life Painting
2024–25 CALENDAR AWARDS
AUGUST 2024
Stella Balfour '29, Henry McDaniel '29 Cupcake Paintings
SEPTEMBER 2024
Caroline Craven '32, Ethan Bannock '27, Zoey Warner '24 Pumpkins
The art program at Harding thrives on curiosity, exploration, and creativity. In both lower and middle school, students unleash their creative potential while problem solving, exploring historical connections, and learning that ‘mistakes’ can become beautiful parts of their artwork.
THE STUDENT ART EXHIBIT
The Student Art Exhibit is a wonderful opportunity for students to not only see their artistic creations on display but to also experience the pride in our art community.
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
This year, we were excited to announce that Ashley Mary was not only the Harding Art Show’s 2024 Featured Artist but also the Harding Academy 2024 Artist in Residence. Launched last year, the Artist in Residence program aims to give our students the chance to learn from and collaborate with artists, fostering their creativity and curiosity in the arts.
Ashley Mary is a Minnesota-based multi-disciplinary artist, with an MA in graphic/ web design from Minneapolis College of Art and Design. She has done work for Láncome, Apple, Starbucks, Google, Target, Paramount/Nickelodeon, Sweet Green, NBCSports, and West Elm to name a few. Ashley’s art is bold and playful. She is genuine and sincere. She believes that art should be accessible to all, and she is passionate about arts education and working with students.
As part of this program, our students, faculty, and alumni worked with Ashley to design a mural gracing the hallway from the Discovery Center up to the cafeteria. From her use of color and collage to her warm and welcoming personality, Ashley was a joy to collaborate with.
MY JOURNEY TO THE DIRECTOR'S CHAIR
Q&A with Student Director Hannah Sides ‘24
What inspired you to take on the role of student director for Newsies?
I was inspired to take on the role as student director for Newsies for a couple of reasons. I hoped to try out for a part, but I had a conflict with my travel ice hockey team for the Newsies performance dates. I still wanted to help because I wanted one final play experience as an eighth grader with my friends and the theater community.
How many Harding Theater productions have you been a part of, and what do you enjoy most about it?
How did you manage and motivate your peers as the student director?
I managed my peers by staying organized, knowing what tasks needed to be completed that day, and making sure people did them. I motivated them by encouraging them and making sure they knew it would be an amazing show in the end.
Can you share a memorable moment or funny moment from your time as a student director?
“Things don’t always go your way. I learned to be patient with everyone, stick with our goals for the day, and trust that it would all work out in the end.”
HANNAH SIDES
Director '24
I have been in five Harding Theater productions, starting with Aladdin in the spring of fourth grade, which was the year I arrived at Harding. I enjoy the theater community and seeing how a play comes together. During the first weeks of any play, you can’t imagine how it will all work out. But then every part of the play improves so much that we are ready for opening night.
What was the most challenging and rewarding part of directing a play at your age?
A play has so many moving parts, and one challenge was to keep everything straight. I took so many notes! I also worked with Dr. Bell to divide up responsibilities so that all the adults and I knew what we needed to do. Good communication was a necessary part of my job. One of the most rewarding parts of the play was the final dress rehearsal when I could see the difference that my hard work and the hard work of everyone else made.
How did you balance directing with your schoolwork and other activities?
I balanced directing with schoolwork and my other activities by using any free time I had in school to finish my homework and school projects. I also did homework when I was traveling for ice hockey on the weekends. I have pretty good time management skills.
What skills did you learn through this experience that you didn't have before?
Leadership and patience were big parts of this role. Directing little kids can sometimes be hard. Things don’t always go your way. I learned to be patient with everyone, stick with our goals for the day, and trust that it would all work out in the end.
It was memorable when we worked on a fight scene with the eighth graders and some of our teachers. It was silly at times, but ultimately we created a great scene for the audience to enjoy. It was also really memorable to be in the play for two of the productions. I wasn’t supposed to be a performer, but when Dr. Bell learned that my hockey schedule would allow it, he asked me to be a featured newsie for two nights. It was amazing to actually perform in the play after working so hard on it.
Do you see yourself continuing in theater or directing in the future? If so, in what capacity?
I’m considering being involved in the future, and I like performing the most. I hope the leadership I learned will be useful in high school in other ways, like sports and clubs.
What advice would you give to other students who might want to be a part of Harding Theatre?
My advice is to give it a try, even if you might be uncertain. Most people love it and want to keep doing it. It’s a great way to really connect with students and adults.
If you could student-direct any play, what would it be and why?
It would be Mamma Mia! because I love the music and enjoyed watching the movie. It could have great dancing and staging.
Looking back on the experience, what are you most proud of?
I am proud of my courage to step up and take this role and the way my work contributed to the final result.
DISNEY'S NEWSIES
In the spring, more than 800 guests filled Henderson Theater for three sold-out shows of Harding’s production of Disney's Newsies Directed by Dr. Braden Bell, Associate Middle School Director/Theater and Choral Director for Middle School, the show featured more than 200 students from first through eighth grade.
DISNEY'S FROZEN JR.
Harding Theatre produced a captivating production of Disney’s Frozen Jr. in the fall. Students from fifth grade to eighth grade brought the magic of Arendelle to the Henderson Theater.
SEIZING THE STAGE
THE HARDING THEATRE PROGRAM HAS GROWN OVER the years in a gratifying way. With that first play, we had 85 students, which seemed huge at the time. It was just me and an accompanist. We now routinely have about one-third or more of eligible students participate, and have seven adults on staff who work to help these productions (shout out to Mr. Parish, our musical director, who has been here for every show since I was hired!).
What has not changed is the power and energy of this community, so much of which comes from the amazing support of the talented, dedicated, generous parent body at Harding Academy.
There is a line from Newsies that I love. While it is specifically in the context of the strike being portrayed in the show, I think it beautifully captures the idea of what a community really can be: “Once we’ve begun, if we stand as one, someday becomes somehow, and a prayer becomes a vow!”
That shared purpose, that joint effort, and the ability to dig in and work hard to achieve something beautiful and meaningful for the kids and our larger community is something I am amazed at all over again, with every single new production.
Dr. Braden Bell
Associate Middle School Director/Theater and Choral Director for Middle School
Ryan Britt '24, Coleman Woodard '26, Claire McDaniel '24, and Anne McCarley '24
Frozen Jr. Ensemble
Luke Anderson '24 and Claire McDaniel '24
Hilary Fremont '24
Harley Mitchell '25
Mateo Lyn-Cook '24
Newsies Ensemble
FIVE SCHOOLS, ONE MISSION: CONFIDENCE. CHARACTER. CONNECTION.
THE CURRENT ITERATION OF HARDING ACADEMY Football is in its 20th year of existence, and I have had the privilege of serving as the head coach of our seventh and eighth grade team in 12 of those 20 years. Every year since that inaugural 2004 season, we have depended on and thrived under partnerships with peer schools. This began as a relationship with the University School of Nashville (USN) in 2004 where they offered up their fields at the River Campus off Briley Parkway as a location for us to practice and play games in return for the opportunity for USN students to play for our team. Since then, our partnerships have grown and blossomed most recently to include the Valor Collegiate Academies, Currey Ingram Academy, and Linden Waldorf. These connections with peer schools and creating an opportunity for kids from different schools to be teammates has inspired a unique football community that has transcended sports and led to experiences and friendships that our students will carry with them long after their time at Harding.
What was born out of necessity has grown into something of incredible value to our community. The value is two-fold as it positively impacts the sustainability of an important part of our athletic program while also providing participation opportunities to kids outside of our school community where they wouldn’t otherwise be available. The impact of opening up our doors to outside students
and families so that they can feel the incredible spirit of the Harding community has been a defining experience of my time in this amazing place. I have witnessed firsthand the transformative nature of bringing kids together from diverse backgrounds and schools and having them work together as a team in an education-based athletic environment. It has been a tremendously impactful experience for them and something they won’t soon forget.
Our athletic mission is to provide an opportunity for every student to grow in confidence and character in a supportive team environment with a focus on fundamental skill development, healthy competition, and building positive, meaningful relationships. Within this mission are our three core values: Confidence. Character. Connection. Everything we do should feed into this mission. It should permeate the experience of our kids so that they all feel like they are valuable members of our individual programs. And, whenever the opportunity presents itself to expand that mission outside of the walls of Harding Academy into our larger community, we should feel compelled to pursue that culture of connection, collaboration, and belonging.
Corby Lucas Athletic Director
Boys Lacrosse
Walt Sanders '24
Hilary Fremont '24
Luke Anderson '24
Connor Gunnels '27
Reagan Reynolds '26
Girls Lacrosse Maya Florie '24
COMMUNITY EVENTS AT HARDING
FALL FESTIVAL
Fall Fest 2023 was not only great fun, but a beautiful example of what makes Harding such a warm, joyful, engaged community. This event is always free and open to all, with fun stations manned by parent volunteers – and even a few middle school student leaders!
Looking across Kever Park, you could see the admissions team welcoming prospective, new, and current families, and faculty and staff members braving the dunk booth! You can bet some children, and perhaps a few adults, are still chuckling with surprise and delight at those good-natured plunges. Thank you to Co-Chairs Sarah Eakin and Christi Gibbs for making Fall Fest 2023 such a fabulous day.
GRADE-LEVEL PARTIES
Every year, the HPA sponsors grade level parties to gather and build community among parents. A huge thank you to Jocelyn Chambers, HPA Grade Level Parent Party Coordinator, and our grade level hosts: Rebecca and Justin Poling (Kindergarten), Meghan and Jacek Kawecki (First), Jocelyn and Nick Chambers (Second), Lauren Gaffney and Ginger Holt (Third), Jennifer and Jim Moore (Fourth), Elizabeth and Gil Lackey (Fifth), Caroline and Stuart McKenzie (Sixth), and Eileen and Eric Smith (Seventh).
THE HARDING ART SHOW
This year’s Harding Art Show encouraged our community to GO BOLD! Color and pattern abounded, from guests’ attire to the bright blue Moon Tea shared by The Tea Huntress. Featured Artist Ashley Mary certainly embodied the mantra, from her multi-disciplinary work to her vibrant presence.
Thousands of attendees visited the 2024 Harding Art Show to shop the eighty-three unique artists sharing their works. Hundreds of volunteers staffed the show, unloading artwork, greeting guests upon arrival, ringing up sales, and in the case of committee chairs, committing significant time to organize the many components that make for a beautiful experience. Even a rainy Family Day couldn’t dampen our spirits. Children enjoyed caricatures, face-painting and creative projects with a few of the show’s talented artists.
“Bold” is just one of the many adjectives that describes the 2024 Harding Art Show; don’t forget very successful, as it grossed over one million dollars for the third year in a row!
To Harding Art Show Co-Chairs Katie Fayard and Audrey Guest: On behalf of the HPA and the entire community, thank you! The show is an immense undertaking, and planning it requires incredible organization, flexibility, teamwork, creativity, vision, and plain old hard work.
SECOND HARVEST FOOD DRIVE
The Harding community met our ambitious Second Harvest Food Drive goal, collecting 400 Red Bags of non-perishable food items! Your contributions earned students a special Spirit Dress Day, and more importantly, assisted individuals and families across Middle Tennessee. Thank you to Second Harvest Food Drive Co-Chairs Katie Douglas ‘96 and Lauren Gonzales, and to all the parent volunteers, families, and students who helped sort and box food items and hold encouraging signage at hook-up!
GRANDPARENTS CHOCOLATE
A time-honored tradition, Grandparents Chocolate is a special moment when grandparents and special friends are invited to campus to enjoy performances by students in kindergarten through fourth grade. A highlight is always hearing children share original poems and essays of appreciation for their family and traditions.
With Mrs. Rhett at the helm, we are grateful to our HPA volunteers: Grandparents Chocolate Chairs Caroline McKenzie and Kasey Hamilton, Grandparents Chocolate Breakfast Chair Jennifer Moore, and the many parents who assisted in wrapping candy bars, transformed the theater, helped in the classrooms, and all of the related activities across the school!
TIME TO RISE
Each summer, Harding Academy collaborates with the Nashville-based non-profit organization, Time to Rise, to host a summer program. This initiative aims to bridge the academic gap during the summer, helping students reach their full potential. Throughout June, rising third, fourth, fifth, and sixth graders from public schools across Nashville are welcomed to Harding Academy. The mornings are dedicated to academics, with classes running from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Afternoons are filled with a variety of engaging activities, including swimming, art, technology, sports, and field trips to places like the zoo, bowling alleys, museums, and Cheekwood.
THE HARDING ART SHOW
The Harding Art Show hosted its 48th annual event May 2-4. The show brought together the greater Nashville community for a weekend of art and celebration both in-person and online. The show was chaired by Harding
ART SHOW
By the Numbers
83 ARTISTS
OVER $1.5 MILLION IN SALES OVER 1,400 ORDERS PLACED
Parents Katie Fayard and Audrey Guests and welcomed Ashley Mary as the featured artist.
Fall Fest Chairs
Christi Gibbs and Sarah Eakin
Time to Rise Halloween Event
Second Harvest Food Drive
Grandparents Chocolate
2024 Harding Art Show Co-Chairs Katie Fayard and Audrey Guest with featured artist Ashley Mary
HARDING PARENTS ASSOCIATION
The Harding Parents Association (HPA) helps foster the spirit of community and supports Harding Academy with needed resources. The HPA hosts events for the community throughout the year to help build connections and provide support to our faculty and staff.
2023–2024 EXECUTIVE BOARD
SHAILA BANNOCK
President
MEGAN JACOBS
President Elect
KAITLIN FLYNN Communications Coordinator
BOOK FAIR
CARLA
THURMAN Secretary
JANET HARDIN
Treasurer KATE
SCHNEIDER
Volunteer Coordinator
ANGEL TREE PROGRAM
The HPA’s Angel Tree is a beloved outreach program, and we are grateful to Heidi Christie and Mary Thomas Kuffner for co-chairing this annual tradition. Last holiday season, Harding partnered with the Martha O’Bryan Center and provided holiday gifts for 100 children, ages infant to 13 years old. Martha O’Bryan Center is a local anti-poverty non-profit that serves more than 15,000 children, youth, and adults every year.
SPIRIT GAMES
The 2023 Book Fair was one for the books (pun intended!). Children and parents filled our beautiful library on a Friday afternoon, selecting and dedicating books to add to our robust collection. As is customary, the Book Fair then moved outdoors on Saturday to unseasonably warm temps and glorious blue skies.
Our Book Fair is one of Harding’s oldest traditions and a major source of support for our library. We are grateful for the hard work and leadership of Co-Chairs Kristi Reaves and Martha Brooke Martin, and Step Up Chair Meghan Kawecki. Thank you for making this event a resounding SOLD OUT success.
FACULTY AND STAFF APPRECIATION
The HPA sure knows how to spoil Harding’s faculty and staff! Providing homemade smoothies, delicious lunches, takehome dinners, and treats like donuts and bagels, along with specialty coffee, demonstrates a thoughtful and generous approach to showing gratitude. They also created snack racks in both faculty lounges to help faculty and staff to recharge during their busy schedules.
HPA AUCTION
All we can say about this year’s auction is THANK YOU and WOW! This annual auction is one of the HPA’s most important fundraisers, and we are delighted to announce that this year's event raised more than $86,000. Thank you to our
community for contributing an awesome array of items, and thank you to the bidders and buyers: we hope you enjoy your goods and experiences! A HUGE HPA thank you to Auction Chair Michelle Augusty for all of her hard work! Thanks also to Shaila Bannock, Kristen McDaniel, and Karen Speyer for uploading all of our amazing items to Bidding for Good! And thank you to our auction committee who sent emails and picked up auction items.
PARENTS PARTY
Rain nor sleet nor snow can stop us from coming together, especially when a good time is on the line. Three cheers for Parent Party Co-Chairs Langhorne Coleman '96 and Hayden Fulmer, who epitomized grace under pressure when snow and ice forced the closure of venue, vendors, roads, and school.
On January 26, attendee patience was rewarded with libations (generously donated by Lipman Brothers), delicious food, fun music, and beautiful decor. Special thanks to HPA all-star Megan Jacobs and her brainchild, Balloons & Confetti 615. The aesthetic of the party, like so many HPA events, was elevated by her artistry and generosity.
TRIVIA NIGHT
The HPA’s inaugural Trivia Night was a blast, thanks to dynamo Co-Chairs Jessica White, Tori Alexander '99, and Ansley Wells '92. Teams rose to the occasion as questions started out soft but quickly became more challenging. First and second place teams won prizes, as did best team name. The food was delicious, the drinks were flowing, and the atmosphere was energetic. Looks like we have a new annual HPA event on our hands!
The HPA hosted two spectacular spirit night events this past year. Among those cheering on Harding teams were students, faculty, staff, parents, and, tellingly, many Harding alums. Talk about school spirit! Attendees were welcomed with Harding swag: pom-poms, mini-footballs, and more! A balloon artist added to the fun, and food was a highlight, with offerings from Flour & Forge Pizza, Hoss' Loaded Burgers, and Kona Ice. A huge thanks to School Spirit Co-Chairs Elizabeth Reavis, Lauren Hocker, and Lacey Keally; your flexibility, grace and execution have set a high bar! And thanks to the parent volunteers who staffed concessions and the school store pop-up.
SONGWRITERS NIGHT
Guests of this community favorite event enjoyed great food and world-class music in a lovely venue with great company. Songwriters Night featured incredible talent from Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriters Tom Douglas, Emily Weisband, and Harding parent Charles Kelley! A big thank you to our Songwriters Night Co-Chairs Jocelyn Chambers and Katherine Moses, and the parents and staff who volunteered. The talent and generosity in our community is amazing! Rumor has it, not only was it an evening to remember, but many continued the fun at various venues on Broadway. Way to cut loose, Harding!
STUDENT ART EXHIBIT
For the second year in a row, the HPA put on the Student Art Exhibit featuring work by every student, kindergarten through eighth grade. Students, as featured artists, were encouraged to serve as docents to families and gallery visitors. It was a night filled with pride, not just on behalf of our many talented student artists, but also on behalf of families who were given a glimpse into the creativity our art teachers Karen Kwarciak and Bailey Woods inspire in our students.
KALEIDOSCOPE
Since 2001, Harding Academy and the HPA have partnered to bring an exciting array of recognized authors to campus. The program, known as Kaleidoscope, is orchestrated by Mrs. Montgomery, who introduces students to the featured talent’s body of work leading up to his/her visit. This year, with the help of Chair Kasey Hamilton, we were excited to bring this wonderful program back and welcomed author Lesa ClineRansome and illustrator James E. Ransome to campus for a full day with Harding students.
AN EVENING OUT WITH THE HARDING DADS NETWORK
The Harding Dads Network deserves high marks for creativity! At their November event, to which all were invited, attendees enjoyed appetizers, drinks, the company of their peers, and… drumroll please… curling! Participants report that sliding stones on a sheet of ice, toward a segmented target, using curling brooms, is as tricky, and as fun, as it sounds!
Top (L-R): Carla Thurman, Kate Schneider, Kaitlin Flynn Bottom (L-R): Janet Hardin, Shaila Bannock, Megan Jacobs
A BITTERSWEET SEND-OFF:
CELEBRATING RETIRING KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS ANNE SWIFT AND PATTI WRIGHT in return we promised to deliver. Anne and Patti have taken that commitment to heart – each walking parents through the unfamiliar year of kindergarten with grace and understanding.”
THE TRUST THAT STUDENTS, PARENTS, AND COLLEAGUES have in Anne and Patti is immeasurable as they have helped shape generations of Harding’s youngest learners. Fellow kindergarten teacher for many years, Ann Lyle, shared, “You can hardly put into words how iconic these two are. I have never known teachers who were as dedicated and truly devoted to what they do every day. This has been their true calling, and I don’t know how you do that justice. Children have felt this, certainly, but so have the parents and fellow faculty members who have been impacted by their unending love for Harding Academy. During parent nights, we would often ask the parents to take a leap of faith and trust us, and
ANNE SWIFT
Anne Swift began her role as a kindergarten teacher at Harding Academy, coming to us from The Paideia School in Atlanta. Over the years, she played a pivotal role in shaping a program that has provided unwavering support to countless students across generations. Throughout her tenure, Anne crafted memorable experiences within the classroom, etching core memories in the minds of numerous children. From her silly hats and songs that kept students engaged, to a highly sought-after reading canoe, Anne’s energy as a teacher was always infectious. Her commitment to Harding Academy has manifested in various capacities, including her stint as the interim director of the lower school during the 1996-1997 academic year. Anne dedicated thirty-seven years of service to the Harding community and, we could not be more proud of and grateful for the ways she has enriched the Harding community.
PATTI WRIGHT
Patti Wright embarked on her journey at Harding in the autumn of 1981, assuming the roles of volleyball coach and physical education coordinator. Patti served as an educator at Harding Academy for forty-three years. She initiated the dance program, helped establish the outdoor education program, and founded the accolade circle. Transitioning to her position as a kindergarten teacher in 1993, Patti dedicated more than three decades to nurturing and challenging students. Patti’s passion for her craft is seen in all that she does.
2024 NEW BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEMBERS
CONNER HARRIS
Conner Harris is a partner at LFM Capital, an investment firm in Nashville with a passion for building best-in-class manufacturing companies across North America. Conner’s career includes serving on numerous boards, investing across various industries, and collaborating with founders and management teams to formulate and implement strategic growth plans.
His professional journey began as a mechanical engineer at Westinghouse Nuclear, where he worked on the design of nuclear power plants. He graduated magna cum laude from North Carolina State University with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. Conner and his wife, Mimi, love spending time in the North Carolina mountains with their two sons, Banks ’29 and Mac ’31.
DR. UCHE SAMPSON
Dr. Uche Sampson is a physician who also serves in various roles within the business arena by leveraging his clinical, scientific, and business background to render strategic consulting and business development services to corporate clients within the healthcare, life science, and technology industries.
The trust that students, parents and colleagues have in both Anne and Patti is immeasurable as they have helped shape generations of Harding’s youngest learners. Fellow Kindergarten teacher for many years, Ann Lyle, shared, “You can hardly put into words how iconic these two are and their dedication to their craft. I have never known teachers who were as dedicated and truly devoted to what they do every day. This has been their true calling and I don’t know how you do that justice. Children have felt this, certainly, but so have the parents and fellow faculty members who have been impacted by their unending love for Harding Academy. During parent nights, we would often ask the parents to take a leap of faith and trust us, and in return we promised to deliver. Anne and Patti have taken that commitment to heart – each walking parents through the unfamiliar year of kindergarten with grace and understanding.”
We would be hard pressed to find any community members who have had more of an impact on the people and programs of the Harding community than Patti and Anne. For students in their earliest learning experiences, parents as they begin the most formative parenting years of their lives, and colleagues as we lean on their wealth of experiences as educators: We are all better for our time with them.
Uche trained in Internal Medicine at The Brooklyn Hospital Center, New York, and then completed clinical and research fellowships in Cardiovascular Imaging at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, and Cardiovascular Medicine fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN. Uche obtained his medical degree from the University of Ibadan, the premier institution of Nigeria, and holds a Master’s degree in Public Health from Rutgers School of Public Health, a Master of Business Administration from Rutgers Business School, a Master of Evidence-Based Health Care from the University of Oxford, UK, and a Master of Biostatistics from Vanderbilt University. Dr. Sampson and his wife Jade are parents to Ellis ‘31, Silas '33, and Abram.
MICHELLE AUGUSTY
Michelle is a proud graduate of The University of Georgia. With extensive experience as a communications executive in both publicly traded and privately held companies, she excels in leading and implementing strategies that enhance communication, culture, and brand alignment to drive business success. Michelle serves on the board of directors for Voices for a Safer Tennessee and is an active member of the external affairs committee for The Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee. She and her husband, Tyler '00, are the proud parents of two children, Reed '31 and Ginny '33.
Patti Wright and Anne Swift
TITANS GAME
In collaboration with Amy ’97 and Kenneth Adams, the Harding Academy Alumni Association hosted the third annual Alumni Day with the Tennessee Titans! More than 200 alumni, families, and friends of the Harding community gathered for a wonderful tailgate in Titan’s Town, where alumni of all ages reconnected and reminisced about their time at Harding. The day was capped off with an exciting Titans' win over the Cincinnati Bengals.
GOLF TOURNAMENT
First hosted in 2000, this annual tournament is held in memory of Alex Martin '04, who passed away while in the fourth grade at Harding. All proceeds from this commemorative tournament go directly to support the G. Alexander Martin Scholarship Fund designated to financial aid for families who have demonstrated need as well as help complete funding for the Harding Alumni Association’s commitment to the Building the Future Capital Campaign.
ALUMNI WINTER LUNCHEON
During a winter in-service, the Alumni Office hosted a special luncheon on campus for our college and high school alumni and their former teachers. This event was a wonderful reminder of the importance of fostering a deep sense of community in our students. It was heartwarming to see graduates update their former teachers on their lives and speak fondly about their time at Harding.
SOPHI STANKIEWICZ ' 20 SHADOWS PATTI WRIGHT
During her senior year at St. Cecilia Academy, Sophi Stankiewicz ‘20 returned to what was once her kindergarten classroom to shadow Patti Wright in what would be Mrs. Wright’s final year as a kindergarten teacher at Harding Academy. Over the years, many students have come back to campus to intern and shadow their former teachers as they explore future career paths. Our very own Ms. MC Davidson shared a similar experience with Mrs. Wright and later joined our teaching faculty in 2022.
WALKER CLAYTON MEMORIAL FISH FRY
With 150 friends in attendance on a beautiful spring day, the second annual Walker Clayton Memorial Fish Fry was a tremendous success! Over $20,000 was raised to support the Harding Academy Alumni Association's commitment to the Building the Future capital campaign. The Walker Clayton Memorial Fish Fry aims to help every child who ever felt like a fish out of water find their stream to success.
COLLEGE CARE PACKAGES
One of our favorite traditions within the House System is the care packages our students put together for our college age alumni. Filled with goodies from their Harding House, assembled by current students eagerly looking to follow in their footsteps, these packages are a reminder to our alumni that their Harding Academy family is always cheering them on, from near and far!
Patti Wright and Sophi Stankiewicz ‘20
HARDING ACADEMY
CLASS NOTES
NEWS
GRAYSON MARGOLIS '25 acted in Law & Order: Organized Crime in May 2024.
CAROLINE VRETTOS '24 received the American History DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Writing Award.
ANNIE THURMAN '24 AND CAROLINE VRETTOS '24 were featured in the Teens Take the Frist art exhibit at The Frist Museum.
SAMMY BOYLAN '23 received the Biology I Honors award, the McCall Community Service award, the Outstanding Freshman award and The President’s Volunteer Service Award from FRA.
ELLIANA GALENTINO '23 received the French Novice award from FRA.
KIPLING MILLER '23 received the Entrepreneurial Leadership & Finance award and The President’s Volunteer Service Award from FRA.
EMMY WOODARD '23 was one of three Ensworth High School Chamber Singers to be selected for the Middle Tennessee Vocal Association’s regional honors choirs.
GARRETT LEE '22, REAGAN MILITANTE '22, and MADDIE WHITE '22 were inducted into the National Honor Society.
GARRETT LEE '22 received the AP Chemistry award, Outstanding Sophomore award and Sophomore Scholar Cup from FRA.
CARTER FLOYD '22 received the 2D/3D Digital Design award and The President’s Volunteer Service Award from FRA.
LEAH FREMONT '22 represented the Harpeth Hall Chamber Choir at the Mid-State Honor Treble Choir in November 2023.
NEKO MANNES '22 received the MVP award for Harpeth Hall, during the Davidson County High School Mock Trial Competition.
SUSAN MCCARLEY '22 was selected by FRA advisors as Outstanding Delegates for their debating skills at Model UN this past fall. She also received the McCall Community Service Award and The President’s Volunteer Service Award from FRA.
CHARLOTTE MIKOS '22 received an Honorable Mention, Humor, in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards.
SPENCER SIVLEY '22 received the World Religions award from FRA.
TESSA STANKIEWICZ '22 made the All Year Honor Roll at St. Cecilia Academy.
QUINCY TOPPING '22 qualified for Futures in Ensworth High School’s 50 freestyle. He and his team also won the 400 meter medley relay at the Speedo Sectional Championships in Greensboro, NC in March 2024.
JEFF BELL '21 received the Most Valuable Player award from Sycamore High School’s football team.
MAX BOYLAN '21 received the French AP award and Rensselaer Medal from FRA.
ELLERY COOK '21 received the Gold Key during the 2024 Middle Tennessee Scholastic Art Competition.
DAVIS DOVE '21 received the McCall Community Service Award and The President’s Volunteer Service Award from FRA.
EVIE FRIST '21 received an Honorable Mention, Poetry, in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards.
GRACIE LUCAS 21 was nominated for lacrosse at the Middle Tennessee High School Sports Awards, representing Harpeth Hall. She has also already committed to playing lacrosse at Vanderbilt University, beginning in fall 2026.
WITT MAXWELL '21 received the Broadcast Journalism award from FRA.
MAIA MCCOURT '21 received the AP Environmental Science award from FRA.
KATHERINE THOMAS 21 represented Harpeth Hall at the 2023-2024 Mid-State Orchestra.
MEG WINSTON '21 was named Cum Laude at Harpeth Hall.
HAAMI YASSIN '20 had his artwork featured at Cheekwood's Black Arts Bash in August 2023. He also received the 12th grade award for The P.M. Estes Scholarship Awards, as well as the Studio Art III AP award from MBA.
WILL CALDWELL '20 received the Most Valuable Oarsman’s award from MBA.
BENNETT DOERFLINGER '20 received the Sociology award and The President’s Volunteer Service Award from FRA.
SANTIAGO FUISZ '20 received the 3rd place award in fiction for The Rascoe Bond Davis Award from MBA.
ELI GALENTINO '20 received the Faculty Award from USN, which is given to one or two seniors who best exemplify these qualities: cooperative, consistent in academic performance, sensitive to peers, willing to work with others, accepting of responsibility, eager to give to the school and the larger community, and involved in activities. They have a sense of humor, sound judgment, likable personality, and the qualities of a strong role model.
SLATER GALLOWAY '20 received the Chemistry award from MBA.
WILL GLOVER '20 received the Chen Jiamin Award for Excellence in the Study of Chinese from MBA.
LIAM HACKETT '20 kicked the game winning field goal in the MBA vs. Ensworth
MADDY HARTLEROAD '20 and fellow classmates' resolutions made it through committee to the General Assembly representing Australia.
RALEIGH MAXWELL '20 was one of ten young men to earn the highest possible honor for an MBA student: induction into Totomoi. This recognition means they’ve distinguished themselves in the classroom and in their various endeavors on campus and/or across the city. Raleigh and his debate squad finished 2nd in the nation. Raleigh received the title of AP Scholar from MBA in 2024. He also graduated with honors in history and debate from MBA. Raleigh received the William Woods Tate, Jr. Forensics award, The Henry A. Fitts Award for Journalism, The Bell Ringer, and The Frank Andrews Book Award.
MADELEINE MERVILLE '20 received The President’s Volunteer Service Award from FRA.
MAIA MCCOURT '20 received the AP Environmental Science award from FRA.
LUCY OTTESTAD '20 received The President’s Volunteer Service Award from FRA.
ETHAN SIDES '20 received the Spanish AP Language award from MBA.
CONOR CORBY ' 19 received the title of AP Scholar from MBA in 2024.
JACK FORBES ' 19 received the title of AP Scholar from MBA in 2024.
FRAZIER ' 19 and NATHANIEL NELSON ' 19 reunited at the Army vs. Navy football game in December 2023.
JAKE FRAZIER ' 19 received the title of AP Scholar from MBA in 2024.
ANNA LINDSLEY ' 19 is a cadet at the US Air Force Academy and studying astronautical engineering.
EMMIE MAUMUS ' 19 participated in the inaugural season of girls flag football at
Franklin High School which led to girls flag football becoming an official high school sport in Tennessee.
LAIN ORNDORFF ' 19 received the title of AP Scholar from MBA in 2024.
WEATHERLY SPENCE ' 17 was named Panhellenic President at Rhodes College in spring 2024.
LYDIA BEACHUM ' 16 joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps for the 2024-25 year and will be placed at Joseph’s House in Washington DC as a social work aide.
MEG BEUTER 16 graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2024 and has committed to teach English as a foreign language to high school students in Kenya on a Fulbright Scholarship.
CARLA COHEN ' 16 received her BSN and RN from Belmont University in 2024 and has joined the TriStar Summit Medical Center team as a labor and delivery nurse.
AINSLEY HANRAHAN ' 16 received her BS from Washington University in St. Louis. She was selected for and accepted a position with the teaching assistant program in France. This French Ministry of National Education program is run by France Educational International and staffed through the TAPIF program within the United States. She will be living outside of Bordeaux, France, and instructing high school students in English and American culture. She plans to volunteer at a hospital, as well as take advantage of the opportunity to explore France.
ANNIE TAYLOR ' 16 graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a degree in mathematics.
fulfilled travel
contracts
Seattle, and
CHANDLER BEASLEY '09 launched her personal interior styling business, Chandler Beasley Creative, where she strives to transform spaces into personalized oases through thoughtful curation, attention to color schemes, and a focus on functionality.
MARY LIZA HARTONG '08 released her debut novel Love and Hot Chicken in February 2024.
ELLEN HAMMER STROOP '07 joined CapStar Bank as a commercial relationship manager for Nashville’s Davidson County team.
DIEGO LUIS 06 published The First Asians in the Americas: A Transpacific History with Harvard University Press in January 2024.
MAGGIE WALTEMATH ASH '99 was featured in the July/August 2023 cover story of Sophisticated Living Nashville. She is the owner and principal designer of Margaret Ash Design.
ELIZABETH TOWNSEND ECKER '96 was named Harpeth Hall’s middle school director in November 2023.
MARGARET GROBMYER '20 was named Cum Laude at Harpeth Hall.
football game during fall 2023 season.
ELIJAH BEYER ' 15 greeted Harding Academy 2nd graders when they visited Nashville Children’s Theater where he works.
ERIN ANDERSON ' 10 has
nursing
in San Diego,
New York City. She has also worked at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt as a pediatric nurse.
JAKE
Mary Liza Hartong '08
Jake Frazier '19 & Nathaniel Nelson '19
Haami Yassin '20
Caroline Vrettos '24
Jeff Bell '21
Liam Hackett '20
Anna Lindsley '19
Meg Beuter '16
Carla Cohen '16
Elijah Beyer '15
HARDING ACADEMY
CLASS NOTES
CATE CONNERY BURY '95 was named photographer of the Year by the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association. She also received first place honors for children portraiture, high school seniors portraiture, and landscape photography. Her company is Cate Connery Bury Photography.
MARISSA MOSES RUSS '94 was named as one of the 2024 Lawdragon 500 Leading Family Lawyers.
RACHEL GLICK ROBINSON '93 is leading the new pediatric Oral Immunotherapy Clinic at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital
at Vanderbilt as an associate professor of pediatrics within the division of pediatric allergy, immunology, and pulmonology.
REESE WITHERSPOON '90 released her second children’s book, Busy Betty and the Circus Surprise, in October 2023.
JENNY BOUCEK '88 is breaking down barriers in the NBA. She joined the Pacers three years ago and became the first female assistant coach in team history and is currently only the third woman coaching in the NBA.
BIRTHS
CLAIRE CRAWFORD GOUGH '08 and her husband, Rhett, welcomed son Kenneth “Kenny” Deacon Gough, on March 31, 2023.
MILES KARRO '07 and his wife, Leigh, welcomed their second child, Wilson Robert Karro, on March 8, 2024.
LAUREN BOUNDS GALLAGHER '05 and her husband, John, welcomed son Jack in August 2023.
WEDDINGS
FRANNIE EASTER ' 12 married Matt Hogan on October 14, 2023.
JAKE JACOBSON ' 12 and CARLY HENDERSON ' 12 were married on April 13, 2024.
JOY MORGAN MYERS ' 12 and Reynolds Spencer were married on April 13, 2024.
MARY WINSTON REAMES ' 12 married Kevin Cramer on November 11, 2023.
ELEANOR SMITH ' 12 married Jake Estes on October 28, 2023.
VIRGINIA BURNS ' 11 married Worth McAlister on September 30, 2023.
HANK POWERS '09 married Ellis Sojourner on June 8, 2024.
KATE BARNES '08 married Hank Ingram on October 14, 2023.
JOHN DAVIDSON '07 married Madeline Juszynski in December 2023.
KATHERINE WOOSLEY ' 10 married Fred Harwell on October 7, 2023.
KATHERINE BUCKSPAN '94 married Jonathan McNamara in fall 2023.
HAYLEY HOVIOUS '92 and THURSTON CROMWELL '89 were married in fall 2023.
CHRISTIE COLLIER '91 married Ben Stauffer in fall 2023.
FRAN PHIPPS GROTE '04 and her husband Carl, welcomed son Carl August Grote V, on September 29, 2023.
CLARE MANNING '03 and her husband, Chad, welcomed their second child, Charles “Charlie” Brooks Manning on February 18, 2024.
KATE CORCORAN SILAS '03 and husband, Billy, welcomed daughter Elizabeth “Libby” Thomas Silas on April 12, 2023.
LOUDEN WRIGHT '02 and his wife, Sarah, welcomed their son, Thomas Aiden Wright, on September 20, 2023.
ANNA MAYO JACQUES '99 and husband, Matthew, welcomed Matthew Berry “Bear” Jacques, Jr. on December 27, 2023.
ELLEN HAMMER STROOP '05 and her husband, Stephanos, welcomed daughter Avery Charlotte Stroop, on October 17, 2023.
MICHAEL BASS '96 and his wife, Susan, welcomed their daughter, Rebekah Grace Bass, on September 27, 2023.
In Memoriam
In the summer of 1971, Mr. Black, driven by a vision to create a nurturing and transformative educational environment, played a pivotal role in establishing Harding Academy. His discerning commitment to securing the right leadership for this nascent institution led him to appoint Mrs. Leora McPherson as the first Headmistress. This decision proved to be profoundly impactful, as Mrs. McPherson’s insistence on hiring the finest faculty and staff laid the foundation of what would become a truly exceptional school. This philosophy of prioritizing outstanding educators remains a cornerstone of Harding Academy’s ethos to this day. Through his steadfast generosity and dedication, Mr. Black has touched the lives of countless individuals, embedding the values of our Community Code deeply within our institution. His legacy of integrity and vision will forever guide and inspire the Harding Academy family.
We at Harding Academy are profoundly grateful for Mr. Black’s dedication to a unified vision, which ignited a tradition of educational excellence that we continue to proudly uphold today.
Miles Karro '07
Hayley Hovious '92 & Thurston Cromwell '89
**** Jack Gallagher
Matthew Berry "Bear" Jacques, Jr.
Michael Bass '96 and Susan with daughter, Rebekah Grace Bass
Frannie Easter '12 & Matt Hogan
Reese Witherspoon '90
RICHARD FITZGERALD '87 and his wife, Virginia, welcomed daughter Collins Grace Fitzgerald on February 15, 2024.
Eleanor Smith '12 and Jake Estes
Christie Collier '91 and Ben Stauffer
Jake Jacobson '12 and Carly Henderson '12
Hank Powers '09 and Ellis Sojourner
HIGH SCHOOL CHOICES 2024
COCO DIXON Ensworth
HILARY
MCDANIEL Franklin Road Academy ALEXA MCKAY Franklin Road Academy
ANNABELLE MEEKER Harpeth Hall
POOLE
RILEY SCHENK Harpeth Hall CARTER SCHWARZ St. Cecilia's Academy
HANNAH SIDES Harpeth Hall
THURMAN Franklin Road Academy
TOPPING Ensworth CAROLINE VRETTOS St. Cecilia Academy ZOEY WARNER MLK Magnet NATHAN WONG Battle Ground Academy
COLLEGE CHOICES CLASS OF 2020
CAMPBELL BODZY University of Wisconsin–Madison
GRACE BOERO Carleton College
EMERSON BONE University of Tennessee, Knoxville
BRUNO
BORGER-GILLIGAN University of Massachusetts Amherst
AVERY COOPER College of William & Mary
EVA ROSE DANIEL Tulane University
BENNETT
DOERFLINGER University of Tennessee, Knoxville
TODD DONG Carnegie Mellon University
SARAH KATE FABER Auburn University
CARLY FRIST The University of Texas at Austin
ELI GALENTINO Georgetown University
MARGARET
GROBMYER Wake Forest University
CHARLOTTE GUNNELS University of Georgia
LIAM HACKETT University of North Dakota
MADDY HARTLEROAD The George Washington University
SIMON HEEREN Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
ELLIE JOHNSON University of Kentucky
RILEY JONES University of Colorado Boulder
LEXIE KAPPELMAN Washington & Lee University
MAX KOHLER St. Andrew’s University
HENRY LESCHEN Vanderbilt University
RALEIGH MAXWELL Emory University
MADELEINE MERVILLE University of Tennessee, Knoxville
ISABELLA MONTGOMERY Gap Year
GABE NIZZARDO University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
KILEY O'SHAUGHNESSY The University of Alabama
LUCY OTTESTAD Wake Forest University
ARIANA PAPAIOANU Gap Year
COLE PATTERSON Vanderbilt University
LAUREN PAYTON The University of Alabama
LAYLA PERKINS Western Kentucky University
GENNIE PHILPOTT Elon University
AVA ROGERS Connecticut College
ROBIYA
SAHIBNAZAROVA Northeastern University
ELIZA SPEARS SUNY Potsdam College
SOPHI STANKIEWICZ University of Tennessee, Knoxville
SYDNEY STRNAD University of Tennessee, Knoxville REESE
HENRY WYKOFF Yale University
HAAMI YASSIN Georgia Institute of Technology
LILYA ZOUAOUI The University of Virginia
HARDING ANNUAL FUND
At Harding Academy, our PreK-8 model informs everything we do. In the lower school, small class sizes and age-based academics ensure that every child receives the specialized care and guidance they need to master the fundamentals. As our students transition to the middle school, enriching opportunities, clubs, and athletics build on these foundations, fostering in them a spirit of lifelong learning and leadership. As the oldest students on campus, Harding middle schoolers are entrusted with valuable opportunities – like community outreach, leadership roles working with younger students, and interscholastic athletics – that are typically reserved for high school students.
Thank you to all who supported the 2023-2024 Harding Fund. We are so grateful for your enthusiastic support. Each gift has an immediate and meaningful impact on our students, faculty, and staff during the 2023-2024 school year.
YOUR GIFT TO THE HARDING FUND ENSURES:
Enhanced classroom technology that prepares students for high school, college, and life beyond
Our ability to attract and retain outstanding and dedicated faculty
Enrichment opportunities through the arts and athletics to foster developing interests in every student
Security enhancements to provide a protected environment where our students can thrive and grow
And be sure to follow us! TOTAL CASH AND PLEDGES: $548,919.00
