2022Magazine&AnnualReport SUPERINTENDENT TAYLORC.STANTON Harding welcomes new Superintendent By: Duncan Rumbaugh, 11th Read a student's perspective on COVID 19 SICKANDTIREDOF COVID-19 Congratulate Mrs. Katie Messerly, English teacher and volleyball coach TEACHEROFTHE YEAR
Foundation Board
Published by Harding Fine Arts Academy Foundation
Editorial Credits
Photography Credits
Barry Schmelzenbach, Former Superintendent Taylor C. Stanton, Incoming Superintendent Keith Campbell, Former Principal Jeremy Williams, Asst. Principal Mary Lakey, Incoming Asst. Principal Shannon Mckenrick-Okou, Director of Development
Jennifer Allman Johny Guerrero ‘12 Fran Kozakowski, Captured Moments Photography
Shannon Mckenrick-Okou
Rod JaneLaurieRobertKenyonDouglasBakerEasonMorganSpinks,Ed.D.StansburySutter
Dan JaneTaylorJohnDuncanShannonMartelMckenrick-OkouRumbaugh,11thSewardC.StantonSutter
Joy Reed Belt, Ph.D., LPC, President Sally Bentley, Vice President Carol McPheeters, Secretary Randall Compton, Treasurer Megan Hornbeek Allen
Cynthia Archiniaco Cyndy MeganHoenigHornbeek Allen
StateoftheArtsMagazine STORY IDEAS: contact@hfaafoundation.org ALUMNI NEWS: alumni@hfaafoundation.org State of the Arts is produced annually for alumni and friends of Harding Fine Arts Academy Our mission is to prepare students for college in an academically challenging, arts-integrated environment.
2021-2022
2021-2022 School Board Jean Hendrickson, President Rosalynn Wade, Vice-President Deanna Brandt, Treasurer Sherry Rowan, Ph.D., Secretary Susan J. Gabbard, Past President Sally JohnKirstenSunshineCherylBentleyBorelliDukesHurleyLindsayDexterMarble,Ph.D, J.D. Camal Pennington, J.D. Staff Leadership
CONTENTS 02 MessagefromSuperintendent a message from incoming Superintendent Taylor C. Stanton 16 StudentStandouts read about students who have stood out this past year 03 21-22SchoolProfile facts and figures from this school year 20 Arts.Education.Community. see our mission in action 06 NewVision.SameExcellence. our new strategic plan and vision for the future 22 WhyIVolunteer learn why the Calvo Family and Jane Sutter volunteer for HFAA 08 InvestinginTHEIRFuture HFAA will invest over $1 million in curriculum enhancement and enrollment 24 Events&Programs HFAA hosted many exciting and innovative programs and events this year 10 MoreThanJustArts&Crafts what is arts integration and how does HFAA use it? 30 HardingAlumniAssociation read about the first year of the Harding Alumni Association and how to join 12 Sick&TiredofCOVID-19 By: Duncan Rumbaugh, 11th Read a student's perspective on COVID 19 34 2021-2022AnnualReport HFAA Foundation's annual report on fundraising and expenses 14 TeacheroftheYear learn more about Mrs. Messerly StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022 01 04 MeetTaylorC.Stanton learn more about HFAA's incoming Superintendent
Dear Friends and Family of Harding, I am incredibly honored to join the Harding Fine Arts Academy Family! Over the course of my career, I have made a commitment to integrate arts into everyday learning to help every student succeed. The Academy has a long history of making that commitment a reality for every student who has walked through its doors. Looking back on our previous triumphs and successes, we examine all that the Academy, Foundation, and community have weathered and accomplished together. I see a school that is imbedded in the community, centered around student success, and prioritizes the arts as a main mode of learning. I see
Yours in ARTS, Taylor C. Stanton, M. Ed. Superintendent
dedicated teachers and staff who do amazing things every day for our students in our forever home the historic Harding School Building. As we imagine the future together, we will see a beautifully renovated campus, one that will bring magic back to this grand building and pay homage to its legacy. Together, we will continue to strive to fully integrate arts education with non arts counterparts, and foster a safe and inclusive environment. This is the time where we leap into the future: revitalized, focused, and driven.
I look forward to working with you all in our shared mission of educating future students and setting them up for success!
Mr Stanton at PgKindergartenraduationinhoenix,AZ.
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MESSAGEFROMTHE SUPERINTENDENT
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Caucasian 40% Black or African American 25% Hispanic 22% Native American 7% Asian 5% Pacific Islander 1% 2021-2022 SCHOOLPROFILE 03 11% Special Education Program 20% Bilingual 50% Free or Reduced Lunches 15% Gifted and Talented $2M+ Scholarship offers 100% Graduation rate CLASS OF 2022
Mr. Stanton at Meet & Greet event with Susan Gabbard (center) and Jean Hendrickson (right) Mr. Stanton with his corgi, Newt Scamander
Mr. Stanton grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. He obtained a Bachelor’s of Music Education from Southeast Missouri State University, where he played saxophone and percussion. After graduating, he moved to Phoenix, Arizona to start his career with various K 12 schools. He earned his Master’s of Educational Leadership from Arizona State University. Throughout his career he has worked as a teacher,
StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022
One of his goals next year is to authentically connect with the students, their families and be visible in the community “The Superintendent shouldn’t be scary and shouldn’t be someone you speak to only when you are in trouble I want to be different from the administrators I grew up with I want to be actively engaged in the campus community,” he said Mr. Stanton often shares his success in school is solely due to his drama and music teachers who taught him discipline, grit, and resiliency. “I was just an average student. They are the reason I stayed in school,” he shared. These are all characteristics he hopes to instill in every student at
MEETTAYLORC.STANTON
His best piece of advice for aspiring teachers and administrators is to always approach a conversation or situation with empathy. He also encourages students to seek out internships and “real world” experiences so that they can hone their interests and passions
04 Harding Fine Arts Academy. His personal mission is to ensure all students can experience and be impacted by the arts just as he was. Mr. Stanton is also committed to ensuring all faculty and staff have the training and resources necessary to be successful in their classrooms. “I want them to be successful; to always be better. I want them to have the freedom to take risks with new programs or ideas. I also want to encourage them to grow daily. And it’s okay if they outgrow us. That means we did our job as administrators.”
grant program coordinator, activities and music director, curriculum advisor, and principal for a K 12 school. In addition to his many career accomplishments, Mr. Stanton successfully established an arts council in Maricopa, Ariz. bringing communities together to appreciate and celebrate the arts.
ThispastMay,HardingFineArtsAcademywelcomeditsnewSuperintendent,TaylorC.Stanton.
TheSuperintendentshouldn’tbe scaryandshouldn’tbesomeone youspeaktoonlywhenyouarein trouble.Iwanttobedifferent fromtheadministratorsIgrewup with.Iwanttobeactivelyengaged inthecampuscommunity. SUPERINTENDENT STANTON 05
SAMEEXCELLENCE.
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HardingFineArtsAcademySchoolBoardandFoundationBoardlaidthe groundworkfortransformingourbuildinginsideandoutbyapprovinganew five-yearstrategicplan.
StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022 NEWVISION.
"This plan provides an exciting opportunity for us to create a shared vision for what we want Harding Fine Arts Academy to be for the long term," said Jean Hendrickson, Former President of HFAA School Board "Especially when so much thinking right now is being driven by pandemic mentality, it's important that we not dwell in the present It couldn't be a better time to think, plan, and behave creatively ” Hendrickson continued Representatives from different constituencies met over a span of 10 months in planning sessions. These sessions were designed to help us realign our vision for the future, set new and ambitious goals, and determine new uses for the historic Harding School Building. With the building purchase from the previous year, Harding is more poised than ever for a meteoric rise!
Gardner Studio, architecture firm, reviewing building plans with Strategic Planning Team
enhance teaching, learning, and curriculum to establish current and future improvements to our educational process; revisit and improve governance practices, policies, and procedures; craft a marketing and public relations plan to increase enrollment and community awareness; develop a long term facilities improvement plan to handle current and future needs; and establish collaborative leadership practices among both governing boards The strategic plan has five major focus areas: 1. 2 3 4 5 In addition, the Academy is dedicated to increasing enrollment by 50-70 students each year. We will also increase the quantity and quality of our educational and artistic offerings to continue to attract more students There is an indication of pent up demand for an arts rich education, as evidenced by the fact Harding Fine Arts Academy experienced 12% growth last school year alone (despite challenges from COVID 19), while other charters’ enrollment declined or had modest 1 4% growth. Weplantogointothefuture withtheresources,facilities, andvisionneededtoestablish HFAAastheflagshipschool inwhichtoreceivean uncompromisededucation! 07
INVESTINGIN THEIRFUTURE Inthecomingyear,HardingFineArtsAcademywillinvestover$1million inprofessionaldevelopmentforteachers,curriculumexpansion,technology, andrecruitment.Thismakesthesinglelargestfinancialinvestmentsince theAcademy’sinceptionin2005.
Enhance existing academic curriculum offerings in fine arts and core classes alike and add new ones, Equip teachers with new skills in technology proficiency, social emotional learning, and arts integration through professional development opportunities, Provide supplies for art and academic programs, Upgrade digital infrastructure to provide state of the art classroom technology and laptops for each student and teacher, and Implement a brand "refresh" and marketing campaign that will double student enrollment over a period of years With this grant we will: In addition to this award, the Foundation also received $150,000 from the Kirkpatrick Foundation to implement new arts integrated curriculum related to the strategic plan. We will use this funding to hire an Arts Integration Curriculum Consultant who will act as a resource for our teachers, evaluate the quantity and quality of curriculum, and provide ongoing, comprehensive professional development.
JEAN HENDRICKSON, FORMER HFAA SCHOOL BOARD PRESIDENT 09
“The Kirkpatrick Foundation has supported Harding for many years through their philanthropic giving,” said Foundation Board President Joy Reed Belt. “They have made Oklahoma City better for many of its citizens. Their support will grow our programs, bolster students and teachers, and prepare our future workforce.”
Thisissuchanexcitingtimeofgrowthforourschool, andIcan’twaittoseewhatcomesfromthissubstantial investmentintheeducationofourstudents.
In March, Harding Fine Arts Academy was one of five public schools in Oklahoma selected for a competitive $900,000 Charter School Program Expansion Grant from the Oklahoma Public School Resource Center. This grant program is designed for new and existing charter schools to expand their program and offerings.
Students engage in a creative process which connects art to common core subjects such as math, science, literature, and social studies. For example, in science class students may be asked to write a song about cell division, or in geometry they may study Picasso’s works to identify different shapes, lines, angles, and their relationship to one another.
MORE THANJUST ARTS&CRAFTS
HardingFineArtsAcademyboastsaninnovativeart-integratededucationalmodel. Butwhatdoesthatmeanexactly?Whatdoesanartsintegratededucationlooklike?
10 Artwork by Kelsie Bishop, 12th
Arts integration is an approach to teaching in which students use art as a vehicle for learning.
Unfortunately, in recent years funding for arts based programs have been on the decline Instead, many leaders and policymakers emphasize the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Sadly, this has sometimes occurred at the expense of humanities, arts, and sociology.
While it is true that there is an increasing demand for highly trained scientists, managers, and technicians, especially in computer science and energy, it should not be forgotten that critical thinking and creative problem solving are key skills needed for the future in any field. As artists, our students will face and overcome obstacles, think of innovative solutions, collaborate effectively with a team, and communicate their visions succinctly and clearly In a recent Forbes article, Adam Enbar, CEO and Co Founder of Flatiron, a computer programming bootcamp, explained that students who come to computer programming from the world of the arts often fear that they will be at a disadvantage.
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On the contrary, a rigorous creative discipline teaches patience in the face of obstacles, which turns out to be a critically important mindset for coding. “Artists know what it’s like to be bad at something,” said Enbar. “If you ever learned to play an instrument, you can feel like a beginner for a long time. But you just push through it and you’re forgiving of yourself. You learn to say, ‘It’s all right that I’m bad, but I’m practicing, and I see myself getting better ’” Arts integrated education is more than just arts & crafts in the classroom. By weaving arts and humanities into everything we do, we are not only preparing students for college, but we are also instilling skills, behaviors, and temperaments necessary to be successful in life and in their careers.
*AP class option available ^ Honors class option available English 9 12 ^ * Literature & Composition * Financial Literacy Algebra I II ^ Geometry ^ Pre Calculus Calculus AB & BC * Statistics * Physical Science Biology * Anatomy & Physiology Environmental Science GChemistryeography Human Geography * Government * PHumanitiesMythologysychology*OKHistoryUSHistory* European History * World History *
CLASSESATHFAA Graphic Design I IV Studio Art 2D * Visual Art I IV Choir Dance I IV Acting I III Drama I III Theater Tech & Design French I IV * Spanish I IV * Martial Arts Creative Writing Journalism Speech & Debate I II Band & Orchestra Guitar I IV Jazz Band Music Theory * Percussion Ensemble Piano Wind Ensemble Photography I IV Video Productions
Artwork by Milo Singleton, 12th
Although the mention of case numbers and subsequent political outrage have declined in most states and newsrooms, the global issue hasn’t dissipated We’ve seen a variety of takes on the problem but very little signs of a solution The pandemic is everywhere all at once, and we’re sick of it.
When mitigating COVID 19, institutions and schools, usually take one of two approaches either they acknowledge the issues the pandemic presents or ignore it. Luckily, Harding Fine Arts Academy has chosen to acknowledge its presence and adapt. This has come through the increased use of Microsoft Teams, virtual school days utilizing a variety of video calling platforms, and an overall increase in sanitization. After some improvement in regard to the pandemic, and after nearly two full years of adaption, Harding is slowly integrating itself back into a regular schedule. However, many Harding students have cited some form of "educational whiplash " The deep struggle of self-motivation during a primarily online school year has carried over into an in-person school year. Physical distance from the school building does little to encourage schoolwork Adding to this, many homes are cluttered with a varied source of distractions Once a problem only during the online school year, these distractions may have now be intertwined with the average school year. Students continue to struggle with balancing schoolwork, athletics, clubs, jobs, and social life with in person learning. Despite this, a wave of relief has also surfaced. After two years of off and on in person and online learning, the opportunity of seeing friends and teachers is rebuilding critical connections. Many students have noticeably improved both mentally and emotionally after leaving isolation.
By:DuncanRumbaugh,11thgrade EveryoneissickandtiredoftalkingaboutCOVID-19andthepandemic.
ABOUT DUNCAN Duncan Rumbaugh will be a senior at Harding Fine Arts Academy. He decided to attend the Academy because of its innovative, arts integrated curriculum and its many art programs, specifically drama. His favorite part of the Academy is the fact all of his classes, including math and science, involved the arts, which makes learning more interesting Duncan's hobbies are reflected in his electives he takes video production, drama, journalism, and guitar. He plans to attend the University of Colorado in Boulder to become a screenwriter.
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SICK&TIREDOF COVID-19
Julian Whitsitt, 10th (left) and Navy Williams, 11th (right) in HFAA's spring musical Little Shop of Horrors
- RUMBAUGH
Relief also comes in the direct communication between teachers and students. With face to face lectures, it has become much easier for teachers to hold students' attention, encourage them, and motivate them to study and complete assignments. Harding Fine Arts Academy continues to support its community in as many ways as possible to ease the transition. No matter the wavering issues of the pandemic, no matter the challenge of recovery, Harding Fine Arts Academy still has what makes it so special Harding is still a welcoming space dedicated to the integration of arts in education for the benefit of students and their families in Oklahoma City.
Students in chemistry class
For some students this daily exposure seems jarring, leading to exhaustion after a single day But overall, students greatly appreciate the return to some resemblance of “normalcy.” Many feel they are witnessing the high school experience they were originally sold on. It feels rewarding to finally hold some healthy form of interaction again.
DUNCAN
Despitthepandemic,no matterthechallengeof recovery,HardingFine ArtsAcademystillhas whatmakesitsospecial.
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Katie Messerly with her award
KatieMesserlywasselectedbyherfellow teachersasHardingFineArtsAcademy's secondteacheroftheyear.
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Katie Messerly has taught at Harding Fine Arts Academy for over three years. In addition to teaching junior level English, she coaches the Speech & Debate Team and Volleyball Team. Her passion for teaching started in her sophomore year of high school because of influential teachers like her former high school English teacher, Mr. Nemetz. “He had us call him Coach, partly because he was the head football coach, but also because he said he was there to coach us on life and not only literary skills,” she said Now Mrs Messerly hopes to be that role model for future educators in her classroom She was drawn to work at Harding because of its mission of arts integrated education Messerly also appreciates the small community that HFA faculty has cultivated. One of her favorite aspects of teaching is seeing the way students accept and support each other. “I have never felt so close to my fellow teachers, and the community we have built cannot be beat! I only see the community getting stronger in the years to come.”
Messerly’s advice to future educators is to “dive right in” and ask questions of current teachers. “Do not wait for college courses to seek out opportunities to learn more Foster your interest and let others help and guide you Do not be afraid to pursue your passion ”
TEACHER OF THEYEAR
Fosteryourinterestandlet othershelpandguideyou. Donotbeafraidtopursue yourpassion. KATIE MESSERLY 15
Katie Messerly (far right) with the speech and debate team
Katie Messerly (center) leading class discussion of Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson Kenya Guidry (left) and Carly Heitland (right) were also nominated
CAYDENBALL,11TH
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Lila chose to attend Harding because of the broad variety of arts classes that are offered and because they are academically challenging and fun.
When asked what or who inspires him, Cayden said, “Inside my personal life, my mom is a big inspiration to me. She’s a single mother and has always done everything and more than I could ever ask. Outside of my home, I would say that all the people in the student organizations that I’m part of at Harding, especially the faculty who oversee them, are people I respect and always learn from ” His favorite artistic discipline is theater because it allows him to express himself in different ways “Harding Fine Arts has given me a lot of opportunity It’s helped me grow in my passion for so many artistic and athletic disciplines," he said
Cayden, is involved with many organizations and activities. He plays varsity basketball, is the captain of the speech and debate team, is a member of National Thespians Society, performs jujitsu, and takes guitar classes. Last fall, Cayden performed as the titular character in HFAA Drama Department’s production of Bram Stroker’s Dracula.
Thesestudentswereselectedbytheirteachersbecauseoftheirunwaveringcommitment totheirartisticcraftandacademicstudies.
Her favorite aspect of HFAA is the great community, fabulous teaches and friendships she has created. “It makes for a great day of school each time I come!” she said.
Lila is active in photography, volleyball, jazz band, and plays drums in the Academy’s cover band, The Birdbrains She is a skilled and accomplished photographer This year, she received an award from the Oklahoma Camera Club in a statewide competition in which she earned a perfect score for her photo! Lila also sold photographs at the Downtown Arts Festival in late April. Outside of school she enjoys playing volleyball, video games, and board games with her family as well as baking and crocheting.
LILAALLMAN,10TH STUDENTSTANDOUTS
“It’s so accepting and welcoming, and everyone here allows people to be themselves. I love all of my teachers too. They push us to do our best while also understanding and giving us grace when we need it. Harding Fine Arts is a fun place to be!”
KARSTENHAMILTON,10TH
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JAKAYLADAVIES,11TH
“I believe that having a diploma from Harding Fine Arts Academy will help m skills t
Jakayla is involved with National Honor Society, and her favorite artistic disciplines are visual arts and photography. Her preferred style of art is drawing and sketching using pencil and charcoal. In her opinion, sketching and drawing are the foundations for all artistic avenues so she wanted to master them. She is most inspired by the artists she sees on social media who spend their lives honing their craft. “Seeing their success helps me to get better at what I do,” she said. Jakayla also enjoys representing her family in the art realm because they have seen a lot of success in other fields such as nursing and forensic science. “I want to be the artist in our family " Jakayla chose to attend Harding Fine Arts Academy because she wanted to attend an arts based high school She is also a legacy student her mother went to Harding Middle School when she was a student! She loves Harding because the teachers have pushed her to become more creative and master her abilities.
Karsten is involved with guitar, piano, and graphic design at Harding He is most inspired by famous guitarist Eddie Van Halen “I love Eddie because he’s such an innovative guitar player he never plays by the rules and isn’t afraid to explore new types of music,” said Karsten In addition to music, he also enjoys drawing and graphic design Karsten decided to attend Harding Fine Arts Academy to participate in the strong music and guitar program. “I knew the guitar program here was really good and could give me something that other schools couldn’t,” he said. He chose to stay because of the tight knit community and family like campus culture that exists at Harding.
JD is a highly engaged and successful student as well as an artist JD is involved with contest choir, drama, guitar, and the International Thespian Society This year, JD qualified for COCDA All Region Honor Choir and performed with the choir at their concert in November at Southern Hills Baptist Church in Midwest City He is inspired by his grandmother, Dana Orwig, who is also a musician. Like JD, she sings and plays guitar. “[She is] just a really great artist. I really look up to her,” he said. JD’s favorite artistic discipline is musical theater because he likes performing for people, and he enjoys the challenge of telling a story through music and acting. He originally wanted to attended Harding because his mother was a staff member, and his brother was also a student. But quickly after starting school, he became immersed in the campus culture and invested in his singing and performing.
JDRODGERS,10TH
LYU’SHANALACOUR,12TH 18 StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022
Lyu’Shana is a very active and accomplished student. She played on the Firehawk volleyball team for four years, basketball team for two years, and started cheering her senior year. Her favorite artistic discipline is dance. “I love dance! I’ve been dancing for a really long time,” she said, “Dancing helps me to express myself both constructively and creatively," she said. Lyu’Shana chose to attend Harding Fine Arts Academy because of the exceptional and challenging dance program. She continued her educational journey at Harding because of the stability and community the school provides “I’ve gotten close with the teachers People know me as someone who strives for the best in all areas of life HFAA has left an strong impression on me," she said In her free time, Lyu’Shana enjoys working and saving money for her shoe collection and purchases that will advance her future. After graduation, she will attend Rose State College, where she has earned several scholarships, and pursue a career in medicine.
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Sam is a member of the Student Council, National Honor Society, and an Eagle Scout. He originally chose to attend Harding for its award winning photography program, but soon discovered his true passion in music. In his free time, you can find him volunteering for El Sistema Oklahoma, a local arts education nonprofit. He is also highly involved in orchestra and jazz band where he plays saxophone and clarinet.
“It’s something I started when I was young, and I really grew to enjoy it because it challenges me ” Sam’s music is inspired by many people, but specifically his parents, former music teachers, and Fleetwood Mac After graduation, Sa numerous teachers w in college and becom
“My favorite artistic discipline is definitely instrumental music,” said Sam.
SAMSKINNER-NOBLE,12TH Blake Bussey, 12th, reviewing sheet music with Mr. Hicks Kelsie Bishop, 12th, selling artwork at the Ignite Arts Festival
ARTS.EDUCATION. COMMUNITY. “Ican’tbelievemynameisonthewall!”exclaimedAztridMoan,seniorat HardingFineArtsAcademy.OnFriday,January7,Aztridandhermother, NicoleMoan,alocalprofessionalartist,openedtheirexhibition, Metamorphosis,atJRBArtattheElmsinThePaseo. 20 Aztrid, 12th, and Nicole Moan's exhibition at JRB Art at the Elms in The Paseo
When creating a new show, Aztrid will normally start with a simple pencil sketch of her idea. Then she will transfer the sketch to her iPad where she can start to refine her designs and consider colors, textures, materials, and layout. Finally, she will create the final pieces using canvas, fabric, clay or wood. Aztrid is ecstatic to have her art hanging in a professional gallery “To have my art in any gallery, especially in the Paseo, is an honor This gallery is a very prestigious one, though, and I feel so honored to be featured in it.”
Her primary career goal is to be a self sustaining artist. She has been accepted to Oklahoma City Community College where she will take additional art classes. She was also accepted to Oklahoma Arts Institute prestigious summer program for 2022. 21 Aztrid next to artwork in JRB Art at the Elms Purple Doily Heart by Nicole and Aztrid Moan Courtesy of: JRB Art at the Elms
Aztrid transferred to Harding Fine Arts Academy after being homeschooled for many years “When you’re homeschooled, you’re more isolated and alone ” As an artist Aztrid sometimes likes to work alone, but she is also appreciative and grateful for the many opportunities she has received because of the Academy. She is most inspired by her family where everyone is an artist. Aztrid enjoys working with her mom especially, because she “throws any and everything at me and allows me to be able to create whatever I want.” Having another professional artist to work with also pushes Aztrid to grow and extend beyond her creative comfort zone. “I am able to create my own thing. My ideas usually come from me, though. I like to be different and try something new.”
WHYIVOLUNTEER
I have volunteered at Harding Fine Arts Academy for one year as a Foundation Trustee, and about three years on the Community Advisory Board prior to that. I first became involved with Harding when I was with the Boys & Girls Club, and I always enjoyed getting to know some of the HFAA students who were also Club members. It is an easy walk from Harding to the Memorial Park Boys & Girls Club. I was impressed with the excellent educational experiences they were having at Harding, and I wanted to nurture a positive partnership between the school and the Club Many Boys & Girls Club members come from low income family situations, and I valued the fact that the Harding students had the opportunity to attend such an academically rich arts integrated high school. I love many things about Harding, but I think my favorite is the diversity of the student body and the atmosphere of acceptance that allows kids of all ethnicities, interests, talents, and economic backgrounds to thrive. A walk through the halls gives an immediate sense of positive energy, respect, and hopefulness.
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While feelings are intangible and subjective, quantifiable and objective statistics back them up: A+ ratings from the Oklahoma Department of Education, Top 10 public high school ratings from US News & World Report, listing in Newsweek’s national “Beating the Odds: Top High Schools for Low Income Students”, and many more The Foundation and School Board look forward to helping the community invest in renovation of Harding’s beautiful, historic building to be able to serve more students in an updated, technology rich environment that will make them and the community proud.
Robert Putnam’s Our Kids, the American Dream in Crisis reminds us that our democratic society is dependent on an educated, informed, and involved citizenry, and that it is up to all of us to ensure that we are raising each generation to meet those objectives. They are ALL our kids, and Harding Fine Arts Academy is a place where they can and will thrive, making our community a better place!
BY:JANESUTTER
Left to right: Megan Hornbeek Allen, Jane Sutter, Dan Martel and John Seward review materials in a Marketing & Communications Committee meeting
Her presentation was received warmly and many of the suggested changes were implemented immediately This coming year, she has the honor to serve as President again and she is very excited to grow as a leader and person, and to learn from her peers.
Michelle and I are so proud of Maggie and her achievements so far, and we cannot wait to see what she will accomplish this year!
One of our primary goals is to teach our girls to be “other minded” and to always live a life of service to their community.
If there is a need and we have margin to meet that need, then we will do it. We have been very fortunate and very thankful to have the ability to live our lives as volunteers and set an example for our kids, especially at Harding Fine Arts Academy Our favorite aspect of Harding is the “safe space” it creates for the students. It allows them to be themselves, explore the world around them, and develop their own opinions and ideas. This culture was made possible by the amazing faculty and staff, whom we cherish and adore. We love the community of people we have met because of volunteering.
Michelle and I have been volunteering with Harding Fine Arts Academy since Maggie’s freshmen year. Michelle has been involved with the Parent Teacher Organization and I have been helping here and there throughout that time. However, we both have been volunteers for our girls since they were in Kindergarten and Pre K. We more or less “stumbled” into volunteering opportunities.
Maggie, our oldest and a senior next year, has been a member of Student Council since she was a freshman. At the beginning of her junior year, Mrs. Rothrock encouraged her to run for President and she was elected by fellow students. Her favorite part of serving as President so far has been meeting in person again and hearing the students’ perspective on ways we can improve the Academy Recently, she had the opportunity to present some of these proposed changes to the School Board
BY:WILLCALVO Left to right: Michelle Calvo, Maggie Calvo (11th), Sophie Calvo, Will Calvo 23
The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded Harding Fine Arts Academy a $29,000 grant last fall to support integrating arts with criminal and social justice reform for the benefit of the students, teachers, families, and surrounding Oklahoma City community The Academy was only one of five awardees in the state of Oklahoma and only one of two in the Oklahoma City area to receive this prestigious award This program allowed our students to explore the topic of criminal justice reform through literature and art as well as host the Mercy & Justice Conference.
MERCY&JUSTICE CONFERENCE
Students began the spring semester of their English class by reading and analyzing Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson a powerful, bold true story about the potential for mercy to redeem America, and a call to fix America’s broken system of justice. Stevenson is one of the most brilliant and influential lawyers in the country. We gave out over 400 books to the entire student body and community, so that more people could participate in the weekly book club leading up to the conference.
On Tuesday, February 22, classic film historian and president of Reel Classics, Elizabeth Anthony, facilitated a screening of a 1955 film Trial in the school auditorium. The Oscar nominated film examines the American criminal justice system in the mid 20th century. During the presentation, Ms. Anthony shared the historical context around the film, film production techniques, and compared the modern day justice system to the one described in the film. Unfortunately, there have not been a lot of changes
On Thursday, February 24, Oklahoma County District Judge Kenneth M. Stoner moderated a panel of community leaders and experts in criminal justice reform in Oklahoma The panelists discussed the reasons behind why Oklahoma has the highest incarceration rate in the world, policies that led to this alarming statistic and what the Oklahoma legislature is doing about it 24 After school book club Student assembly with Oklahoma Innocence Project
StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022
During a day time assembly, Oklahoma Innocence Project, talked with students about the Innocence Project and how they identify and remedy cases of wrongful conviction in Oklahoma. Ending the conference, the HFAA Black Student Association performed works of music, dance, and spoken word for about 400 audience members. All original works aligned with the conference theme of mercy and justice The purpose of this program was to battle the effects of social isolation due to COVID 19 and promote community wide healing by creating a safe and encouraging environment that brings disenfranchised communities back together through positive public discourse. “We were so fortunate to be able to host this exceptional and innovative program for our students,” said Principal Keith Campbell. “I am very proud of the imaginative faculty and staff who worked so hard to make this a reality.” Bryan Stevenson
Oklahoma County District Judge KENNETHM. STONER DAMONBRITTON Executive Director Diversion Hub WAYLANDCUBIT Lieutenant OKC Police Department KAUSHIKI CHOWDHURY Criminal Defense Practice She Still Rises REP.MAUREE TURNER House District 88 PANELISTS
“Iwassoproudthat HardingFineArts Academywasoneofonly tworecipientsofthis prominentgrantinthe OklahomaCityarea.Well done,Firehawks!” FORMER SUPERINTENDENT BARRY SCHMELZENBACH 25 Student projects on Just Mercy by
Left to right: Jean Hendrickson (Honoree) with Dr. Daniel Schuerch and Dr. Sherry Rowan
Left to right: Carol McPheeters '63, Judy Hamilton '63, Rindy Hyde '63, Porter Morgan '63, Kaye Adams '63, Dee Harris '64
LEADESHIPINARTS &EDUCATIONAWARDS
StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022
At the 9th Annual Leadership in Arts & Education Awards on March 28, we celebrated five deserving honorees: Ken & Mary Ann Fergeson, John & Joy Reed Belt Award, University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma, Community Impact Award, Jean Hendrickson, Innovation in Education Award, Rand Elliott '68 Outstanding Harding High School Alumni Award, and DeVante Parker '11, Outstanding Harding Fine Arts Alumni Award. During this lively evening, guests enjoyed a spicy signature cocktail, entertainment from the Academy’s jazz cover band, The Birdbrains, delicious food, and reunion with friends after nearly two years apart
The Awards ceremony not only honors our community members, but it also raises money for the Foundation’s mission This year, we saw a record breaking event in both attendance and funds raised With your help we raised over $100,000 for arts integrated education! Guests had the opportunity to donate to specific Pick Your Passion projects that are close their hearts. This year, we offered four high impact projects for guests to support in performing arts, American literature, special education, and library services. During the event, guests donated over $11,000 for these programs. Chairs left to right: Tyson Williams, Bronda Williams, Christa Pitman and Dr. Gabriel Pitman
All photos courtesy of: Fran Kozakowski, Captured Moments Photography WANTTOSPONSORORPURCHASEATICKET? email lae@hfaafoundation.org
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Left to right: Paul Dudman, Nancy Kerr, Debby Dudman, Joy Reed Belt (Board President), Bob Anthony Jean Hendrickson (center) accepts Innovation in Education Award from Supt. Schmelzenbach (left) and John Yoeckel (right) Pictured left to right: David Sutter, Randel Shadid, Jane Sutter, Mary Ann Fergeson (Honoree), and Ken Fergeson (Honoree)
DeVante Parker '11 (right) accepts Outstanding Alumni Award from Dr. Daniel Schuerch (left)
Rand Elliott '68 (right) accepts Outstanding Alumni Award from Supt. Schmelzenbach (left) Dr Feavor (center) accepts Community Impact Award on behalf of University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma from Supt Scmelzenbach (left) and Shannon Mckenrick Okou (right)
All programs are free and open to the public. Help support our mission by becoming a sp Email giving@hfaafoundation.org to get involved.
Singing and dancing are enduring forms of human entertainment, so it should come as no surprise that as soon as technology allowed synchronized sound to be added to moving pictures, movie musicals became a staple of the American movie going diet. As the art of filmmaking progressed, the movie musical evolved with it, reflecting changing tastes and styles of music and movement. 28 Elizabeth Anthony presenting prior to a film screening
IGNITEMASTER ARTISTSERIES
We worked with classic film historian and president of Reel Classics, Eliz Anthony, to offer a series of six classic screenings free to the community
StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022
Harding Fine Arts Academy is not only committed to educating students, but we also want to provide a place of education and entertainment for the benefit of the surrounding community The Ignite Master Artist Series actively advances the arts by providing exceptional programming, cultivating rich and transformative educational opportunities for our students, and inspiring our audiences. This year we offered a new year long series, Evolution of the Movie Musical, and by popular demand, An Evening with The Ezra Duo.
The Academy is excited to offer the Ignite Master Artist Series this co year with four exciting, brand-new programs! Watch your inbo information. You can sign up for emails at www.hfaafoundation.org.
EVOLUTIONOFTHEMOVIEMUSICAL
ANEVENINGWITHTHEEZRADUO
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In April, we hosted The Ezra Duo, from Ontario Canada. Formed at The Glenn Gould School in 2016, The Ezra Duo, featuring violist Jacob Clewell and pianist Sasha Bult Ito, quickly established itself as a performing ensemble of the highest caliber Ezra has gone on to perform coast to coast in Canada, in Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall in New York, and Toronto’s Koerner Hall In April 2018, Ezra appeared as guests at a G7 Summit event held at the Royal Ontario Museum. The duo are first prize winners of numerous international competitions, earning invitations to perform in New York, Vienna, and Sarajevo. Currently, Ezra is ensemble in residence at the Emerald Coast Chamber Music Festival and Institute, where Sasha and Jacob are co Artistic Directors. While at Harding Fine Arts Academy they led several workshops and masterclasses for our students, and performed and spoke at a student assembly for the entire student body Friday evening, we hosted a free community concert where Ezra performed relatable works by today’s contemporary composers “We were so pleased to have The Ezra Duo here again,” said Emma Potter, Fine Arts Department Chair. “Jacob and Sasha’s knowledge and mastery in their trade is invaluable, and we are so grateful for the opportunity they provided Harding’s students ”
The Ezra Duo: Sasha Bult Ito (left) and Jacob Clewell (right) Courtesy of: The Ezra Duo Sasha Bult-Ito (left) leading a piano master class with a student. to our monthly Engaged e Newsletter
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HARDINGALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNUALREPORT HFAA Alumni and students after inaugural Alumni Classic basketball game
MESSAGEFROMTHE PRESIDENT BECOMEAMEMBER!
I invite you to come along with us for the exciting year ahead Whether you attend an alumni event, volunteer your time, or donate, we hope to connect with you With the Harding Spirit, DeVante Parker ‘11 President Dear Alumni, This has been a historic year for Harding for many reasons we restarted school after two years of isolation and hybrid learning, saw a large increase in student body population, implemented a new strategic plan, onboarded a new Superintendent, and won a $900,000 grant to expand the Academy In addition to all of this, we re established the Harding Alumni Association! Thanks to Alumni like you, we recruited over 70 new members and generated nearly $7,000 in revenue for the Alumni Association! We attended tailgates to cook hotdogs for the students, participated in community Trunk or Treat, hosted the inaugural Alumni Classic where we clenched the win from the current Firehawks, and danced the night away with Alumni from all generations at the Alumni Celebration
You can view benefits and easily become a member online at: www hfaafounadtion org/alumni 31
In my final year as president, we hope to bring you all the same events as this past year, plus work with faculty on campus to create an after school mentorship or tutoring program with current students, and offer college scholarships to graduating seniors
Being a member of the Harding Alumni Association comes with an overwhelming sense of pride for our beloved alma mater You are the link to our past and the key to our future
HARDINGALUMNI ASSOCIATIONMEMBERS AnnualMembers Mike Biddinger '67 and Cindy Ingram Biddinger Richard W. Curtis '64 Kristen Dunham '11 Annabel Givens '61 Jalisa Green '11 Gayla Grissom '16 Jonathan Guerrero '12 Carol Wise Jankowsky '64 Heath P. Kelly '21 Kenneth Morton Morris '65 Katharine Mosier '11 Dan Murdock '61 DeVante Parker '11 Jordan Pennon '11 Trey Treat '22 Bodie White '21 CoupleMembers Charles Givens '68 William V. Harris '60 Alexandra Hurley '17 Jim E. Rust '66 and Pam Rust '66 Nok Thatvihane '09 DistanceMembers Jack Dodge '58 T. Michael Dossey '60 Anna Jefferson '12 Ariel Hawkins Koerner '11 Hal G. McKnight '67 Glendia Parker Thornton '63 LifetimeMembers Dennis Adams '63 Joe Don Andrews '65 Steve Baker '64 Joe Baker '64 and Linda Collins Baker '64 Ann Brodie '58 Phyllis Owen Burchfield '58 Tracey Burdick '65 Jean Artman Campbell '63 Beverly Richards Carter '60 Kathryn M. Cisper '66 Chip Clark '62 Jennifer Coleman '68 Jacquelyn Anderson Croft '58 Linda Whitlow Dunn '63 Linda Evans '61 Ceci Allen Gosting '64 Lynette Elliott '63 Carolyn Hert '64 David R. High '68 Tommy Hilborne '64 Charlene Hite Campbell '59 Margaret Holdridge '63 and Curt Holdridge '63 Brent Holmboe '68 Ann Bacon May '60 John McGuire '66 Gene Melton '58 Becky Payne '58 Steve Saul '61 Nancy Mansell Schanbacher '67 John L. Scott '64 Doug Claypool Shannon '67 Antoinette Sonnenfeld '66 Sally M. Stringer '64 Robert L. Sullivan '58 James S. Thompson, M.D. '61 Frank H. Titus '62 Robert L Tone '61 Judy Ann Vossler '67 Charles J Watts '64 Robert R Whitlow '67 Sandra Baker Wilkins '61 32 StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022
33 Alumni taking pictures in the photobooth Alumni looking at old yearbooks Alumni dancing Alumnus hyping up the crowd Alumni are game-ready! Nok Thatvihane '09 (right) giving Travis Rhoades (left) the signed game ball
StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022 2021-2022 ANNUALREPORT 34 Annual Fund Building Renovation Corporate Donations Gifts in Kind Harding Alumni Association School Activities Fund Special Event Revenue Special Projects Fund TotalFundraising 74,411 500,000 2,500 16,414 6,861 15,098 86,903 155,000 857,187 DONATIONSBYFUND 203 First Time Donors $2,828 Average Donation 14 Free Community Programs 45 Volunteers NNNNNMMLKIIFCCAARZAOLLNSAANCDEJM 250,000506203,1351003005501205025060300100450504,000 WVUTSOONNVYKRCXTAA 120 2,625 596,7381101001,82010017525 DONATIONSBYSTATE
DONORHONORROLL Superintendent'sCircle$100,000+ E. L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation Kirkpatrick Foundation Windgate Foundation PrincipalCircle$25,000+ Inasmuch Foundation Ms Kay Milner Oklahoma City Community Foundation ValedictorianCircle$10,000+ Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum Nancy Ellis Payne William T Payne Fund SalutatorianCircle$5,000+ Anonymous Family Foundation Carol A Beesley Ken and Mary Ann Fergeson Jean and Walt Hendrickson Kirkpatrick Family Fund, Inc NBC Oklahoma Dr. Gabriel and Mrs. Christa Pitman Rainbolt Family Foundation Smith & Pickel Construction ScholarCircle$1,000+ Anonymous Advised Fund American Fidelity Foundation Rod and Jan Baker BBancFirstetsyBacon Morgan Arts Scholarship Fund Gail Beals Joy Reed Belt Sally Bentley Dr. David and Mrs. Amy Jenner Birdwell Annie Bohanon Randy and Melinda Compton Country Financial Doug G. Eason Rand and Jeanette Elliott Joan Frates Chip and Shannon Fudge Susan and Jay Gabbard Grant Thornton LLP Mary Ellen Gumerson Heritage Trust Junior Hospitality Club Kirkpatrick Bank Steve Mason Carol McPheeters Gene and Cheryl Melton Kenyon and Kay Morgan Porter Morgan III The O.K. Detrick Foundation Fund Bond Payne The Pitman Family Dr Sherry M Rowan Senior Helpers Richard L Sias Laurie and John Stansbury Doug and Susie Stussi The Chickasaw Nation United Mechanical Service, Inc Visionary Oklahoma Women Renate and Chuck Wiggin Wilshire Charitable Foundation John Yoeckel FirehawkCircle$500+ Elizabeth Anthony Joe and Linda Collins Baker Lissa Blaschke Cheryl and Peter Borelli Mr Edwin D Crane Susan and Jay Gabbard Dr. Robert and Mrs. Pam Spinks Jane and David Sutter John&JoyReedBeltEndowment FundDonors Kirkpatrick Family Fund Ms Kay Milner 35 Wanttosupportartsintegratededucation? You can quickly & easily donate online at www hfaafoundation org/donate
To
FirehawkPromoter wonderful honor close to you also Fine Arts Academy Foundation.
while
or remember someone
supporting Harding
Inmemoryof
Carol McPheeters in honor of Dr Sharon M Rowan
Inhonorof Joy Reed Belt in honor of Sally Bentley
way to
Kathy L Carroll in honor of Anie Schonwald and Barbara Eisen
Christa and Gabriel Pitman in honor of the Amazing Faculty, Staff and Students
Brooke and Mike Murphy in honor of Carol McPheeters
36 FirehawkPatron TRIBUTEGIFTS Tribute gifts are a
Ms Kay Milner in honor of Joy Reed Belt and Gary Milner
Carol McPheeters in honor of Harding High School Class of 1963
Dr Sharon M Rowan in honor of the Amazing Faculty, Staff and Students
Dr Sharon M Rowan in honor of Barry Schmelzenbach and Keith Campbell
T. Michael Dossey in memory of Eric V. Parham
Ms. Kay Milner in memory of Charles Milner
Claire J. Ramberg in memory of Robert Dale Davis
StateoftheArtsMagazine|Summer2022 CORPORATESPONSORS
Ruth Carolyn Smith in memory of Michael Kemp Wanttohonororremember someone? (405) 702 6939 or visit us online at www hfaafoundation org/tribute become a corporate sponsor or view please contact giving@hfaafoundation org
Call
Tracy C Treat in honor of Treyson Treat Class of 2022
Mary Ellen Gumerson in memory of Bill Gumerson ‘63
benefits
2021-2022FINANCES 37 BALANCE SHEET June 30, 2022 Pre Audit Assets Cash Assets Accumulated Depreciation Building 3333 N Shartel Ave Furniture & Equipment Improvements Organizational Costs Total Assets Liabilities Payroll Liabilities Total Liabilities Equity Unrestricted Net Assets Net Income Total Equity Total Liabilities & Equity 598,097 73,372 508,890 67,926 296,919 20,230 1,418,690 694 694 803,808 614,188 1,417,996 1,418,690 STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES June 30, 2022 Pre audit Revenue & Support Grants Individuals, Businesses Rental Income Special Event Revenue Total Income Expenses Business Expenses Contract Services Facilities & Equipment Grants to HFAA Operations Other Costs Payroll & Wages Travel & Meetings Total Expenses Net Income 698,800 81,858 42,000 73,493 896,151 4,282 15,313 68,527 16,778 97,072 16,300 59,810 3,881 281,963 614,188
3333 N Shartel Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73118 10thAnniversaryLeadershipin Arts&EducationAwards Join us for a lively evening celebrating those who have made significant contributions to the arts and education in Oklahoma. Sponsorships available now! Tickets on sale January 2023. March 27, 2023 savethedate The Jones Assembly www.hfaafoundation.org | giving@hfaafoundation.org | (405) 702 6939
