Joachim LaValley Director of Information Technology
Jamie Maples Director of Maintenance
Charmin Lee Director of College Counseling
Sam Bauer ‘84 Chairman of the Board
Perspectives is a publication intended for the alumni, parents, friends and students of Hilton Head Preparatory School. Perspectives is published biannually by the Hilton Head Preparatory School Development Office.
Story ideas or address changes may be sent to Leah Davis at ldavis@hhprep.org or to the Hilton Head Preparatory School Communications office, 8 Fox Grape Rd., Hilton Head Island, SC 29928. We reserve the right to edit submissions for length, style and clarity.
Editor: Leah Davis
Art Director: Kim Perry Bowen ‘75
MISSION
In a joyful, accepting, and ambitious environment, Hilton Head Prep is a place where children discover what is great about themselves and the community around them and learn how to use that knowledge to impact an everchanging world and thrive within it.
Hilton Head Preparatory School admits students of any race, color, national, ethnic, or religious affiliation to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, financial aid, and athletic or other school-administered programs.
8 Fox Grape Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
843-671-2286 • ldavis@hhprep.org www.hhprep.org
PERSPECTIVES | SUMMER 2024
WELCOME
Dear Hilton Head Prep Community,
As Summer arrives back on campus, our slice of Heaven here on Hilton Head Island has transitioned from the routine of the school year to a time of fun summer camps, hard work from fall athletes and campus renewal. Each represents progress for our school and though the break from routine offers joy to our students and faculty, the year ahead is already in clear view and preparations are underway.
As our campus undergoes further refresh, we are also diligently assessing curricular offerings, pedagogical approaches and supporting faculty professional development. The Hilton Head Prep Institute for Business and Innovation has taken shape and students are registered for classes, the school store is under construction, and student internships have begun. We are thrilled to be launching this important initiative for our students.
Eyes to the future, our excitement about the present is grounded in our vision for the coming years. Completion of a new five year strategic plan has sharpened our focus of who we are and what we hope to be. The process of formulating this plan was one that engaged the community and included perspectives from every part of the Prep family. A year-long, inclusive process, students, faculty, parents, alumni and Board of Trustees members should hear their voices in the plan. It is truly a shared vision and a map for ongoing progress for our school.
Our three centers of gravity center on our faculty, our campus and our community. As you read through the Strategic Plan, you will see both wider goals for the school as well as specific areas of work that will provide us with clear direction and accountability. You will also see that the process included distilling the language of the Mission Statement to a more accessible form.
Also included in this publication you will find a sampling of the work that has already been done or is underway toward school improvement and the goals of the strategic plan. In short, the plan is being implemented already and it is building momentum.
Whether you are here every day or haven’t been back in years, I invite your questions and interest in our school and the plans ahead for the coming years. As the Mission Statement notes, we are a place that helps students discover what is great about themselves and I encourage you to look closely to learn the many things that are great about our school.
Regards,
Mr. Paul W. Horgan Head of School
PREP PRIDE SHINING THROUGH Recent School Initiatives Making a Difference
Since the start of the 2022-2023 school year, the school's endowment has grown from roughly 1.5 million dollars to roughly 4.5 Million Dollars.
The Mission Statement has been rewritten and distilled to a stronger, onesentence statement.
Over the past 2 years, Faculty and compensationstaff has grown by over approximately 11% in total.
Launching a new Lower School Language Arts/Literacy Program (2024-2025)
Complete renovation of essentially all academic spaces including furnishings.
Completion of the New Playground.
Complete renovation of Main Street Theatre bathrooms and front of house.
Complete overhaul of security infrastructure, processes, and staff. Enhanced relationship with local law enforcement.
Complete overhaul of the Transportation Systems.
Introduction of the Institute for Business and Innovation.
All School Field Day Execution.
Increased staff for academic support
Bringing Chris Herren to campus to speak.
Increased counseling staff (2024-2025)
The School’s total enrollment in 2023-2024 was 419 students and is projected to grow to over 450 for 2024-2025.
Over the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 school years, HHP athletic teams have won 11 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS.
Renovation and upgrades to Boarding House. (Faculty Apartment, student quarters).
Purchase of two additional acres on Cordillo Parkway.
Successful completion of the SAIS Reaccreditation Self-study.
Prep Pride Fund parent participation increased from 19% in 2021 to nearly 60% in 2024
Hiring new CFO and establishing a full time Chief Advancement Officer
Enhancement of the College Counseling Program
Introducing a new Lower School Math Program
Successful launch of partnership with Neighborhood Outreach Connection
An area of institutional focus, the school’s Retention Rate for returning students has improved from 84% for the 2023-2024 year to roughly 93% projected for 2024-2025.
Establishment of Bakala Scholars Program.
Establishment of the Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship
The Board of Trustees has approved a new FIVE YEAR
STRATEGIC
PLAN that will guide the work of the school in the coming years.
FIVE YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN
Hilton Head Prep’s campus will be invigorated with facilities that are designed to meet the needs of students, artists, and athletes now and for generations to come.
Critical Work
Seeking Things That Produce Evidence
DEEPER SENSE OF CAMPUS PERMANENCE
FOCUS ON SUPPORTING STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS
RETAIN GREAT EDUCATORS
DEEPER CONNECTIONS TO THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITY
BUILD CAPITAL SUPPORT
SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC MODEL
Hilton Head Prep will provide top-tier support for a great faculty and staff by allocating necessary resources to provide its students with the very best professional educators.
In order to move boldly into the future, Hilton Head Prep will broaden its reach into the community, into the region, and into the world.
DEEPER SENSE OF CAMPUS PERMANENCE
In striving to create a deeper sense of campus permanence, Hilton Head Prep will center these themes: A healthy, welcoming atmosphere, school safety, program supportive spaces, and flexibility for future generations.
• The school will invest in a thorough campus master planning process, which will include input from every constituency of our school. This planning will emphasize the idea that the campus design should clearly reflect its focus on the future.
• Hilton Head Prep will focus on academics, arts, and athletics, and on spaces that support programs (speeches, athletics, academics) as well as revenue generation.
FOCUS ON SUPPORTING STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS RETAIN GREAT EDUCATORS
The school will allocate resources toward, and deepen the focus on, supporting student wellness and mental health.
• We will annually review staffing needs in order to ensure support for all of our students.
• We will provide proactive programming that promotes positive mental health.
• We will assess our institutional use of time as well as student schedules.
The school will provide the resources for best-in-class professional development for its faculty and staff. In so doing, it will improve both teaching and learning for each teacher and student, ensure academic excellence, and make the investment necessary to retain great educators.
• Each Division Director will maintain a professional development budget.
• We will address challenges regarding housing and affordability.
• We will provide competitive compensation for faculty and staff.
DEEPER CONNECTIONS TO THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITY
The school will build deeper connections to the surrounding community and create sustained growth and learning opportunities for ALL Hilton Head Prep students beyond the boundaries of the physical campus.
• While there are some examples of this programming at Hilton Head Prep currently, the school’s faculty, students, and staff will contribute more deeply and benefit more fully from the region and beyond.
• We will partner with the local community to provide our students with additional exposure to the professional workplace.
BUILD CAPITAL SUPPORT
• We will seek to expand the cone of admissions candidates to include those who previously did not consider Hilton Head Prep an option.
• We will utilize the Hilton Head Prep Institute for Business and Innovation to connect with the larger Hilton Head Island business community.
Build capital support to move boldly toward the school’s most critical needs and just as importantly, its aspirations.
• Under the leadership of the Board of Trustees and Head of School, Hilton Head Prep will acquire and marshal philanthropic gifts toward the strategic plan.
• We will expand the philanthropic range of the school through connections to the community.
• We will expand our proactive processes toward seeking and obtaining grant money for the school.
• We will implement a full time Director of Institutional Advancement position.
SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC MODEL
Hilton Head Prep will create and maintain a sustainable economic model for the future.
• We will identify the “right size” for ideal enrollment through market research and long term financial modeling.
• We will deepen engagement with Alumni.
• We will assess and refine marketing and communications strategies.
• We will create and maintain five-year budget projections.
• We will implement a full time Chief Financial Officer position.
• We will continue to grow the endowment.
Faculty & Staff Highlights
Krista Hanna (current Lower & Middle School Learning Specialist and Lower School Curriculum Chair) will begin taking on a new role this summer as the Associate Director of Admissions. Krista is also celebrating her daughter Brittany Hanna’s ‘20 graduation from University of South Carolina this past May.
Witt
Georgia Southern University in the fall.
Gilbert (US Science) and Bethany (US Spanish & Capstone) Ramseur earned a grant from Fund for Teachers to complete a linguistically and culturally immersive homestay with a local, Spanish-speaking family in Costa Rica this summer. They will be completing the homestay with Proyecto Asis and working on experiential learning projects at a "stay and serve" program with their family at Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center in Turrucares and also at a similar program alongside Kids Saving the Rainforest in Quepos.
This summer, Bethany and Gilbert Ramseur will attend Norwich University's GenCyber Teacher Teaching Camp, which is funded by the National Security Agency and the National Science Foundation. Early in June, the two also worked for the College Board with Bethany back in her role as Table Leader for AP Seminar and Gilbert as AP Biology Reader.
Abby Frey (Social Emotional Counselor) celebrated her son Ben’s graduation from Hilton Head Preparatory School this past May. He will be attending Clemson University in the fall.
Angela Britschge (Front Desk Administrative Assistant and Admissions Assistant) celebrated her son Jason’s graduation from Hilton Head Preparatory School this past May. He will be attending Lakeview Academy in the fall.
Destini Brunson (Upper School Physics Teacher) attended the Army Sustainment University in Fort Gregg-Adams, VA, where she completed the Logistics Captains Career Course from March 24 - April 26. On top of that, she recently celebrated being promoted from First Lieutenant to Captain!
Cara
‘02 (All School Media Director) celebrated her son Daniel’s graduation from Hilton Head Preparatory School this past May. He will be attending
Andy Graham (Director of Security) celebrated his daughter Catherine’s graduation from Hilton Head Preparatory School this past May. She will be attending Clemson University in the fall.
The Director of College Counseling, Charmin Lee, participated in the Palmetto's Finest College Tour in South Carolina. The tour consisted of the College of Charleston, Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, Furman University, and Wofford College. There were 40 College Counselors representing public and private high schools from all over the country who attended.
Mrs. Lee was able to gain valuable information regarding important updates about admissions practices, academic programs, and student life experiences. She was fully immersed in campus life with student-led tours, panels, and in depth discussions with faculty/professors regarding highlighted majors, athletics, and fine arts.
Now, as students are talking to Mrs. Lee about these specific colleges, she has a clearer and more comprehensive understanding, allowing her to better discuss which colleges might be the best fit for each student.
Mrs. Lee expressed, "I am beyond thankful for these opportunities for professional development and collaboration with the college admissions teams. I love building and strengthening relationships with Deans and Directors in the Admission Offices, as it will only benefit our students."
This summer, Laura Campbell, Hilton Head Prep's Computer Science Curriculum Leader and Upper School Computer Science Teacher, participated in ISTE Live, one of the most premier edtech events in the world. Held this year in Denver, Colorado, from June 23-26, the conference brought together over 15,000 education leaders, teachers, coaches, librarians, and media specialists. The event buzzed with dynamic discussions on integrating artificial intelligence into education, providing valuable insights into its responsible classroom implementation. Laura explored cutting-edge technologies such as robotics, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) designed to ignite creativity and engage students across all age groups. This immersive professional development experience promises to enhance teaching strategies and introduce innovative technologies, enriching the evolving computer science curriculum at Prep across all divisions.
Peg Hamilton was pleased to participate in the 2024 AP Language & Composition exam scoring held in June in Cincinnati, Ohio. As she has done for over 20 years, she designed the commemorative tee shirts for the readers. Since Cincinnati is right on the Ohio River, the theme of the shirts and of the reading itself was "Rollin' on the River"!
Abby Frey virtually attended The Leadership & Happiness Symposium in June through the Harvard School of Public Health. Attendees learned different approaches to the teaching of the science of happiness from legendary scholars in the field such as Tal BenShahar, Lisa Miller, Laurie Santos, Marty Seligman, and Robert Waldinger. Abby was inspired with what they are teaching in this field in higher education and her main takeaway was that happiness is not a destination; it’s a direction and it does not come on its own, no matter how successful you are.
Shon Hardy is thrilled to have completed his Masters in Athletic Administration from Grace College. He learned of their online program when completing his Certified Athletic Administrator certification through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAA). Through the collaboration of Grace College and the NIAA, this program has been a tremendous opportunity and experience for him as he continues his professional growth and development as an administrative professional.
Celebrating
THE REMARKABLE CAREER OF
Jennifer Cody Murphy
Hilton Head Preparatory School bids a heartfelt farewell to Jennifer Cody Murphy, who is retiring after 37 years of unwavering service. Jennifer has been a steadfast presence, guiding the school through various challenges and good fortune with grace and dedication. Her departure marks the end of an era, as she leaves behind an indelible mark on the school and its community.
Joining Hilton Head Prep in July 1987, Jennifer’s journey began when she and her family, including children Nicholas ’98, Jaunell ’00, and soonto-be-born Niles ’06, settled in the Bluffton/Hilton Head area. Initially, Jennifer wasn’t seeking employment, especially with Niles on the way. However, Providence had other plans. Wallace Taylor, the newly hired CFO (1987-1991), needed an assistant and, recognizing her extensive non-profit experience from her time in White Plains, NY, and West Palm Beach, FL, embraced her into the Hilton Head Prep family.
Over the years, Jennifer has managed the school’s business operations with remarkable efficiency as the esteemed Business Manager. Her professional journey at Prep saw her handling the Business Office’s responsibilities with the support of fantastic Board Treasurers and Heads of School. Later, she shared these duties with Margot Brown and Kristi Goodwin, ensuring a seamless transition and continuation of her legacy.
Jennifer’s impact at Hilton Head Prep extends far beyond her administrative role. As an FCA leader, she has touched countless lives with her wisdom and kindness, guiding students and staff alike with her unwavering resolve. She served as an advisor and supporter of Prep’s FCA club and was a former board member of South Coastal FCA. Her commitment to the school’s athletic spirit was evident as she tirelessly attended hundreds of Dolphins sports games and even served as the varsity girls and boys basketball scorekeeper from 1996 to 2008.
A proud 1978 graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a BS in Business Administration concentrating in Accounting and a 2004 MBA graduate of the University of South Carolina, Jennifer’s educational background has been instrumental in her role at Prep.
Her leadership has been a steady compass for the school, navigating it through multiple leadership transitions and economic ups and downs. Beyond her professional achievements, Jennifer’s personal contributions to the Prep community are profound. As a devoted mother to her children, all of whom are lifers at Prep, she has woven her legacy into the very fabric of the school. Her tireless dedication and profound love for Hilton Head Prep resonate deeply within the Prep family, making her retirement a moment of both reflection and celebration.
Jennifer expresses her thankfulness for the opportunity to serve Hilton Head Prep, a place she feels blessed to have been a part of since 1987. She looks forward to spending more time with her family and friends, traveling, and serving her church and community. As she embarks on this new chapter, her legacy at Hilton Head Prep will continue to inspire and guide future generations.
With deepest gratitude and admiration for her decades of service, commitment, and boundless heart, Hilton Head Preparatory School wishes her all the best in her retirement and is eternally grateful for her 37 years of dedicated service.
SUMMER CAMPUS UPGRADES: Enhancing Facilities for a Bright Future
This summer has been a bustling period of development and improvement on our campus, with several significant upgrades enhancing the educational environment for students and staff alike. Key projects have been undertaken to reconfigure existing spaces and create new ones, ensuring our facilities meet the evolving needs of our community.
Business Office and Advancement Office
The Business Office has been relocated to newly constructed offices on the upper floor of the Middle School for our newly appointed Chief Financial Officer and Business Office staff. This move has allowed for the reconfiguration of the original Business Office space into two distinct areas. Meanwhile, the Advancement Office has remained in its current location but has been enhanced with dedicated office spaces for our Chief Advancement Officer, Director of the Prep Pride Fund and Alumni Relations, and Director of Communications. These changes are designed to streamline operations and foster a more collaborative environment.
Lower School Enhancements
In the Lower School, the back of the Leroy Everett Harvey Building has undergone a transformation to provide dedicated classroom space for the 4th grade. Additionally, a brand-new art room has been created, offering our younger students a vibrant and inspiring space to explore their creativity. These updates are aimed at enriching the educational experience and supporting the diverse needs of our students.
KNS Media Center and Institute for Business and Innovation
The KNS Media Center has seen the addition of a dedicated space for the Dolphin Spirit Store, providing a convenient and centralized location for students and families to purchase school merchandise. Moreover, the center now includes classroom and office space for our new Institute for Business and Innovation, a forward-thinking initiative designed to equip students with essential business skills and entrepreneurial knowledge.
Gymnasium and Faculty Lounge Upgrades
Both the Middle School and Field House gym floors are being refurbished, ensuring they remain in top condition for our athletic programs. These upgrades are part of our ongoing commitment to providing excellent facilities for physical education and sports activities. Additionally, the Faculty Lounge in the Upper School is receiving a muchneeded facelift, with reconfiguration to create a more comfortable and functional space for our dedicated teachers.
Dolphin Dining Hall
In addition to these renovations, a thorough cleaning of the floors in our Dolphin Dining Hall has been conducted. This comprehensive cleaning process ensures that our dining facilities remain hygienic and welcoming for students and staff.
Exterior Tree Trimming and Campus Beautification
As part of our campus beautification efforts, extensive tree trimming has been carried out around the campus. This initiative not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of our campus but also contributes to improved security by ensuring clear sightlines. The careful pruning of trees and shrubs creates a more open and inviting environment, making our school grounds safer and more beautiful for everyone.
AROUND
JK Garden
Our JK students got their hands dirty by cultivating the land and learning about plant growth, horticulture, and how to take care of mother earth.
JK Buddies
JK Buddies is a program where 7th and 8th grade students mentor and play with their JK buddies during their club time on various Fridays throughout the year. Most activities are educationally based but often messy and fun for all. During this session, the middle school students taught the JK students how to make slime!
Pooh Pal Senior Parade
Every year prior to graduation our graduating class parades through campus with their lower school pooh pal. Our entire student body gathers in the courtyard to cheer them on for this momentous occasion!
CAMPUS
Middle School Flag Football Tournament
Spring Concert
Over 150 Prep students in grades K-12 participated in the annual Spring Concert on April 24, 2024. Audiences were delighted with strings, bands, and choral presentations in a variety of musical styles from
to
Swift to a final rousing rendition of
Our Middle School students competed in a flag football tournament during the last days of the school year. Our Middle School Faculty and Athletic Department helped orchestrate this event and the kids had a great time! Organized by Alyssa Gillis - our Middle School Spanish Teacher.
Muffins with a loved one
Lower School families gathered with their students in May for “Muffins with a Loved One”. Students were elated to show their families their classrooms and the work they’ve been completing.
Mozart
Taylor
“Sweet Caroline”.
CELEBRATING UNITY: An Unforgettable All-School Field Day
By Leah Davis
In an extraordinary display of community spirit and teamwork, our school hosted an all-school field day on Friday, April 26, bringing together students from every grade level for fun athletic challenges and camaraderie. This event, meticulously organized and led by our excellent physical education teacher, Jeff Stanyard, with the help of middle school faculty members Cara Witt ‘02 and Kathleen Sanz, was a vibrant embodiment of our school's core values and a crucial component of our ongoing accreditation process and Strategic Plan.
The sun shined brightly as lower, middle, and upper school students gathered on the sprawling athletic fields with faculty, staff, and parent volunteers, ready to embark on an exciting day. The
field day featured various activities designed to engage students of all ages, including field games (like lawn darts with water balloons), obstacle courses, scavenger hunts, and numerous mentally and physically challenging competitions that required teamwork.
Mr. Stanyard, who has been a cornerstone of our physical education program this year, worked tirelessly for months to orchestrate this event. His vision was clear: to create an inclusive, fun, and educational experience that would foster a sense of community and collaboration among students of different ages. His hard work and dedication paid off as field day unfolded seamlessly, much to the delight of students and faculty alike.
One of the most significant aspects of field day was its role in bridging the gap between the lower, middle, and upper schools. This event was a tangible expression of our school's commitment to unity and community across all grade levels. Younger students had the opportunity to look up to and interact with their older peers, while older students took on mentorship roles, guiding and encouraging the younger participants as every group consisted of mixed ages. These activities fostered teamwork and problem-solving skills and created an environment where students could build relationships and learn from one another.
The field day was not just a day of fun and games; it was a deliberate and strategic initiative aligned with our school's core values. Our recent Strategic Plan process and reaccreditation work highlighted the importance of community, and this event was a shining example of our commitment to this principle.
Furthermore, field day supported those goals by enhancing the connections between the lower, middle, and upper schools. By bringing students together in this manner, we are fostering a cohesive
school community where every student feels valued and included. This event also demonstrated our commitment to providing fun educational experiences that go beyond the classroom; it emphasized the importance of physical activity, teamwork, and social interaction.
The success of this year's event has set a new standard for future field day events. The feedback from our students, parents, and staff has been overwhelmingly positive. Mr. Stanyard’s, Mrs. Witt’s, and Mrs. Sanz's dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and plans are already underway to make next year's field day another success. Also, this day would not have been the same without the enthusiastic support of our parent volunteers who enjoyed the day as much as the kids.
This was more than just a day of fun outdoors; it was a powerful demonstration of our school's commitment to community, inclusivity, and education. As we continue to strive for excellence in all areas, events like this remind us of the importance of coming together, working as a team, and celebrating our shared values. Here's to many more field days to come!
un B E L I Z E able
by Bethany and Gilbert Ramseur
This past March, our Dream Team of 18 Upper School students and two chaperones came to a screeching halt on the airport runway in a new country for all of us. The reason? An iguana had crossed the runway in front of the plane just as it landed, and the pilot acted quickly to save it. Our welcome to this beautiful country could not have been more quintessentially Belizean. Students on this trip participated in an alternative, experiential learning spring break week, serving at Howard Smith Elementary School by digging the foundation for a new classroom and tutoring the students in English (one particularly dynamic teaching duo taught some middle schoolers how to use “rizz” correctly in a sentence), as well as learning about nurdles and how to protect the second largest barrier reef in the world with Tobacco Caye Marine Station biologists. Indeed, this year’s trip alongside our partner, World Leadership School, proved transformative in many ways as we reflected on the past and set goals for the future.
Our first encounter with the past was at the Mayan Ruins at Xunantunich. They are just one impressive reminder of the power of early peoples, the power of nature, and most importantly, the power that we all hold when we work together. El Castillo, the primary pyramid at Xunantunich, is one of the tallest structures in Belize and is over 2,000 years old. Despite its commanding stature, Xunantunich was hidden for hundreds of
years, recaptured by the jungle of the Brazilian valley. After a 130ft climb to the top of this temple, facing due north into the breeze and overlooking massive courtyards, you can’t help but feel small. This civilization, an annex of a larger Mayan civilization in Guatemala, which you can see from the top, once supported 200,000 people, which is just under half of the entire population of Belize today! How did these people work together to build such a massive empire? How did they live? What decisions led to their demise? What will time remember about our civilization, and what positive impact can we make on the world while we are here?
These questions lingered as we moved into our second phase of experiential learning: serving at Howard Smith Elementary School. Working there was one of the great honors of the trip. pproximately 500 students learn together in tightly packed, semi-open air spaces with limited classroom resources and virtually no modern conveniences like air conditioning or sinks in the bathrooms. Despite many of the students traveling as many as three hours each way across the border from Guatemala to get to school, the genuine happiness and contentment of the children was palpable throughout our time there. How do they maintain such a spirit of connection within their community despite being device-free? What can we learn from their example of joy despite challenge? These and other great questions continued to pile up as we interacted
with the beautiful children of San Ignacio. Although we did not complete the classroom project we started for the kindergartners, we did dig the foundation, which will serve as a sturdy base for many of the children we met there for years to come, and for many of us, a symbol of cornerstone during this transformational experience. How will we continue to leave a legacy behind in our own lives? What can we do to better the lives of others around us, near and far?
Perhaps we can find ways to spread kindness in ways as simple as sharing good food, knowledge, or skills? In fact, the only thing as good as the smiling faces of the Cayo children as reward for our hard work under the Caribbean sun was returning exhausted and hungry to our home base at Clarissa Falls, with some of the best cooking on the planet, led by Chena Galvez and her team of cooks. Please ask a certain baseball player, how many salbutes did he eat to beat the standing record there? However, meals weren’t the only time we shared something simple and sacred together. A multigenerational Garifuna family invited us to witness and participate in their traditional dancing demonstration, which ended with everyone getting on their feet to try out an instrument or a move for themselves. This Afroindigenous experience led us to more questions - what could we learn from conducting a cultural comparison between the Garifuna of Belize and our own local Gullah-Geechee population on Hilton Head and what might that reveal about our shared values?
By traveling to the coastline on our third and final phase of experiential learning, we saw more Garifuna influence firsthand, and we also had the opportunity to explore the world below sea level. Tobacco Caye is a tiny, four-acre island straddling a section of the second largest barrier reef in the world and contains four small resorts, a few local housing structures, and a marine station. Despite its humble appearance, we quickly learned this island was nothing short of paradise. Although our wake up time for breakfast here would have been 7:00am, this was a moot point since ALL students were voluntarily waking up before 5:30am to bask in the beauty of the sunrise over the crystal clear Caribbean waters. Here we even celebrated the earliest 17th birthday party of our lives alongside quarterback Wyatt Harmer. Snorkeling here offered glimpses into the biodiversity that Belize has to offer - an understanding that was only heightened during our night dive among sharks, Derek the green moray eel, and octopi.
From the Tobacco Caye biologists and learning modules, we uncovered further detail about the native ecosystems and its threats. Working to rid the island of plastic waste is a full- time job for many and can be seen most prolifically in the nurdles washed ashore on the beaches there as well as the invasive lionfish population. Our students enthusiastically joined Ronny, Irene, and Jordan in these pursuits for the few short days we were there. (If not for the nagging of chaperones, several of our students may have remained there permanently!) Our final venture into the Belize Zoo for a night walk among the local animals collected there found us asking still more questions - why did they name one of the jaguars Edgar Hill? Why did that name make us laugh so hard? Why can’t we take the baby otter home in our suitcases? During the final candle ceremony at nightly reflection, our trip leaders Randall Bermudez and Eric Caño encouraged us to let the light of our own journeys continue shining and left us with a final question: how will we take what we have learned and continue learning the lessons? How will we lead with gratitude for those around us as we work to solve the global issues that surround us?
To learn more about this one-of-a-kind trip opportunity with our partner, the World Leadership School, talk to any of this year’s participants pictured here or check out the group’s Instagram page @hhprepservicelearning or the nightly blog posts written by the Leaders of the Day - https://sites.google.com/worldleadershipschool. com/hhprep-belize/field-notes. Gracias for following our journey of aventuras en Belize and may we all continue to reflect on these questions and these precious lessons learned together for many years to come.
2024 FREDERICA CARSON ART PURCHASE AWARDS WINNERS
CERAMICS:
MIDDLE SCHOOL:
LOWER SCHOOL:
A.J. Franseen, Grade 11
Minh “Martin” Nguyen, Grade 12
Blythe Crocker, Grade 11
Shengyi "Stephanie" Zhu, Grade 10
Chloe Downing, Grade 6
Casey Chafik, Grade 7
Quinn Hausher, Grade 8
Scarlett Schilling, Grade 2
Maya Shimada, Grade 11
Brooke Heins, Grade 9
PROMISING PICASSOS WINNERS 2024
3rd Place Eternal Connection: Bound by Fate but Together by Will, Minh “Martin” Quang Nguyen
Stars of Merit: Mushroom Garden, Quinn Hauser
Stars of Merit: Hai Lang (Ocean Waves) - Stephanie Zhu
Stars of Merit: Annie LaValley, Cottage
Closing the curtain on the 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR
By: Peg Hamilton
There you are. Sitting in Hilton Head Preparatory School’s Main Street Theatre waiting for the curtain to rise on what will be another marvelous Prep production. Don’t you love the buzz right before the show starts? The excited rustling of the programs and the hushed chatter? And then…Prep’s artistic director Ms. Patti Maurer steps in front of the audience for her traditional welcome. And another show begins!
This school year audiences were treated to two amazing productions: “Tarzan” and “Willy Wonka.” As is Ms. Maurer’s trademark, each show featured students of all ages dancing, singing, and delivering lines with whatever emotion the scene called for. As happens with every Prep production, the actors and stage crew create an unbreakable bond stemming from the energy of creativity.
Of course, there are nerves. Of course, there are times – in both rehearsals and perhaps during the actual performance – when lines get dropped or muddled. It happens. But the beauty of live theater is the coming together during rehearsals, on stage, behind the scenes, in the green room, up in the light booth, and at the soundboard. Under the expert direction of Ms. Maurer along with Ms. Meredith Inglesby Blanchard ‘93, and with the assistance of recent graduate Trey Middleton ‘23, everyone who was a part of this year’s productions learned and grew and laughed and sang and danced and leaped and bonded…and gave us all hours of entertainment that only a Prep production can deliver!
As we look ahead to the 2024-2025 school year in the performing arts, I am reminded of an interview I conducted some years back with a member of our local arts community. I asked him, “So, what is your favorite play?” and he dramatically replied, “The next one.” How right that is, especially here at Prep. Enjoy looking back, and now savor the anticipation!
Meet Mr. Rehling The Director of the Institute for Business and Innovation
Can you share a bit about your professional background and what led you to a career in marketing and consulting?
Although I started in College as a Computer Science major, that didn’t last long. My dad worked for UPS his entire career, ultimately in marketing and sales. It seemed like he enjoyed going to work every day so I switched over to business and then into a marketing specialization. I’m very fortunate. I’ve had a great career and can honestly say I love going to work every day…at least most days.
After college I started my career in marketing as a product manager for Koh-I-Noor/Mont Blanc. I then moved to Crayola, also in product management, and then over time into business development, working joint ventures, new products, new geographies, and channels. This was where I found my passion. I love identifying and creating new products, business, and programs. From Crayola I moved to Sesame Workshop (makers of Sesame Street) and led their business development efforts, basically finding new ways to help children reach their highest potential outside of television. It was at this time I realized I needed to find a way to keep every day filled with new problems and/or opportunities and made the move into consulting. I started with my own firm, then merged it with Edgewood Consulting and spent 20 plus years developing new go-to-market strategies for large packaged goods companies like J&J, Bayer, Campbells, Kraft Food, Keurig, and more.
As I progressed in my career, I started doing more and more speaking and training and felt like I wanted to teach. The University of South Carolina Darla Moore School of Business in Columbia gave me that chance thirteen years ago. My time at USC has been the most rewarding of my career. I’ve been teaching the senior marketing capstone class at USC and realized not long after I started that the remainder of my career was going to be dedicated to inspiring the next generation of business professionals.
What attracted you to Hilton Head Island and Hilton Head Prep, and what are you most excited about in joining our faculty?
My wife Denise and I came to Hilton Head as one of our first vacations together after we started dating. We ended up coming here regularly ever since. We had talked, sometimes half joking, that we would end up here one day. One day finally came, a little earlier than maybe we planned, but we made it nonetheless. We love it here, the people, the lifestyle, the commitment to nature, all of it. It’s just such a unique place.
We moved here two years ago with my youngest daughter about to enter high school. We looked at three schools in two days and at dinner that second night we asked what felt right. She didn’t hesitate, and said “Prep”. Her transition to Prep has been terrific and as we got involved, I was impressed with the flexible schedule to meet
different student’s needs, the commitment to academic rigor, and the opportunity for student’s to be involved in many different activities. I just loved the feel. About eight months ago Mr. Horgan pulled me aside and asked if I’d want to make a difference here like I had at USC. It was only a couple days before I said yes. The Institute for Business and Innovation was born.
How do you integrate real-world business and marketing scenarios into your curriculum?
Honestly, integrating it isn’t that hard. It's coming up with the right scenario or experience to teach the concept that is tricky. My biggest challenge now will be transitioning from seniors in college to sophomores and juniors in high school. But if you can’t tell, I love a good challenge so I’m excited about it and have been planning different activities for months. It’s going to be fun.
Remember, business is real-world. Yes, there’s theory and various concepts but success comes from application, both in and out of the classroom. When the school’s leadership approached me about this role I asked for two or three things, one of which was that I want to be able to teach via experiential learning and I may at times be a little unorthodox. The response was almost immediate, and they reassured me that following my time at USC they knew that I know what our students need – “go give it to them”. At that point, we had a deal.
What advice do you have for students aspiring to build a career in business and marketing?
Let me separate business from marketing for a minute. When I got to meet Prep’s students for the first time near the end of the school year I asked, “how many of you are thinking about going into business”. About 30% raised their hands. I then said, “so I’m here for those of you who didn’t raise your hands, because you’re all going into business. Whether you’re a doctor, a lawyer, a plumber, an engineer, or a professional athlete, you are going into business. Whether you own it or work for it, that will be decided later, but you’re going into business.”
Maybe more importantly, the skills you learn in a business curriculum are transferable. From learning how to influence people (sales), to telling your story (marketing), to balancing your bank account (finance), to working with people (human resources), you need business education. Any time a college student comes to me and asks about majors I always tell them find a major you like, that doesn’t feel like work, that fits your interests and strengths. Then, add at least a business minor to it. If you’re in a business school, great. If you’re not, that's fine too, but add business as second major or minor.
To this point, my passion is marketing. It’s the heart of every successful company. I like to say, “marketing is the creative side of business, get creative in accounting and you’ll end up in jail”. That said, I have never told a student they should be a marketing student. If accounting comes easy and you enjoy it, I want you to be an accountant. I’ll never sell you on marketing. My job is to help students find their passion, how to best leverage their strengths and, maybe most importantly, go to work happy.
will be lots of ways to get involved, including program and event sponsors, guest speakers, competition judges, company tours, internships, and more. This community is filled with successful professionals. If you are reading this and would like to get involved please reach out. I’d love to connect.
Q:
How do you envision collaborating with other faculty members and departments?
I’m excited about meeting the Prep team. Everyone I’ve met so far has been so welcoming and excited about this program. I’m looking forward to learning from them. I’ve already started brainstorming with Ms. Lee in college counseling, am working with Ms. Davis in marketing, and have partnered with the business office to help the business club open our first on-campus school store. We’re just getting started. As it relates to the curriculum, one of the required business classes is called Professional Tools, which will focus on key technology platforms our students will need in college, including Canva, Excel, Adobe Creative Cloud, AI, and more. I’m hopeful we will have opportunities to integrate these tools into other classes so students can continually reinforce this learning as they prepare for college. I think our new Introduction to Business course as well as the required personal finance class may have similar opportunities. It’s going to be fun, but I also realize that we are first and foremost a college preparatory school, and I’m going to do my best to reinforce what the faculty are teaching in other coursework in my classes. My first priority is for business education to complement and enhance the great preparatory education Prep’s students are already receiving.
Q:
What are your long-term goals as a faculty member in the business and marketing department?
Q: Q:
How do you plan to support students outside the classroom, such as through mentorship or extracurricular activities?
We’re already starting. We launched a business club over the last year for which I was a volunteer advisor. That club has joined DECA, the country’s largest high school business organization, in which we plan to compete in regional and national competitions in 2025. We have three students testing internships with local companies this summer. I’m meeting the Chamber, a local start-up incubator, and local business leaders for their input. I even want to hold etiquette dinners for our students, so they learn how to handle professional settings. I’ve got a list two pages long of ideas; right now I need to prioritize! One thing for any students reading this, get involved! Get involved beyond just the two required classes. What you will learn will help prepare you for college and beyond. That’s my promise to you.
In what ways do you hope to engage with the local business community and industry professionals?
This is a passion point of mine. We can’t do this alone; the Institute for Business and Innovation is not just about coursework. We need support from the community. There
I’ve told Mr. Horgan, I’d like to see Hilton Head Prep recognized as a thought leader in high school business education, locally, regionally, maybe even nationally. More importantly though, it’s the same as my goal was at Crayola, Sesame Street, and USC. I want to help each student reach their highest potential. Potential, as each of them define it.
6th Grade Experience MIDDLE SCHOOL 101
By Cleteus Smith
When one thinks of life-changing transitions one immediately thinks of graduating from college, starting a job, changing a job, possibly losing a job, getting married, and becoming a parent. All these transitions in life hold emotions of excitement, eagerness, and exhilaration. It would not be fair if I did not also mention it contains reactions of fear, fixation, and foreboding. However, life-altering transitions start way before receiving your final diploma. One could also include a toddler's first steps, letting go of your mother's hand while entering school for the first time and then, there is...wait for it...ENTERING MIDDLE SCHOOL.
Adolescents often get the short end of the stick due to their moody temperaments and quickly fluctuating mood swings. However, if one would take the time to pause and reflect on the amazing physical and psychological changes that occur in their development, one should give them far more credit. During puberty, hormone changes affect the body, and the brain's development leads to stronger emotions and more risk-taking. Teens start thinking more deeply and understanding complex ideas and morals. They explore their identity, learn to manage their feelings, and deal with self-esteem issues influenced by their body image, peer relationships, and social media. To put it mildly, there is a whole lot of change happening in a teenager and we realize and celebrate that at Hilton Head Preparatory School!
So much so, that we developed a brand new course of study, the 6th Grade Experience for transitioning end-of-year fifth graders to new sixth graders this past school year. This year-long course prepares our students for the rigors of middle school and how to navigate through this exciting part of life. The course is divided into four quarters each dealing with a specific foundation of skills that will prepare them for the years ahead.
All our new middle schoolers begin their journey in Middle School 101. This boot camp-like quarter of a course introduces our students to the life of a middle schooler. They are presented to all of our school resources as well as the expectations they will have to abide by. They also learn study skills, time management, and test-taking strategies. Realizing that collaboration is a new life skill that our students need to develop, they are given numerous opportunities to bond with their new classmates.
This creates teamwork which can often be difficult for our sometimes contentious individuals. Through this shared purpose among classmates, it also assists with their problem-solving abilities and communication skills. Most importantly it begins their educational venture into selfadvocacy. We intentionally place our students in an environment that enables them to take an active role in their education which fosters growth in their independence.
In the following three quarters, our new middle school students experience a quarter of Coding/Technology which is especially important in this digital world they live in. This improves our students' logical reasoning and equips them with tools to innovate and construct through Google Apps. Their final product provides them with the building blocks to create a programming language so that a computer can execute their desired result.
During another quarter, our students develop a second language to further their cognitive abilities. Given that Spanish is the second most spoken language in the United States, our 6th graders start to bridge cultural gaps by developing their Spanish communication skills. An unexpected benefit of learning Spanish is that it helps students better understand English grammar in their native language.
The last quarter of their 6th Grade Experience helps them to selfregulate during this often very tumultuous period of life. Through their instruction in Middle School Mindset, they learn the benefits of resiliency and how to learn through their mistakes. By fostering a growth mindset they are better able to embrace challenges by developing their problemsolving skills. This upcoming academic school year we will also be including physical health during this quarter of instruction.
We realize being in the middle requires more than a blueprint for this period in life. Our 6th-grade teachers understand this better than anyone. They have developed this 6th Grade Experience course that will bridge the emotional and academic development so our new middle schoolers will have a secure footing moving forward. With understanding and patient guidance and a solid instructional framework, our 6th graders will ease through this often trepidatious transition with ease and success.
The 2025 Distinguished Citizen Awards Honorees
Rob Hattler ‘91 was chosen to receive the Alumni Award as a committed alumnus who has made significant contributions to Hilton Head Prep and the greater society while attending Prep and continuing post-graduation. Rob is the owner of Pavilion Construction and also serves on Hilton Head Prep’s Board of Trustees and is an active member of Hilton Head Prep’s Alumni Association. Rob, and his wife Kirstan, have two Prep dolphins, Emme ‘30, and Myles ’32.
Marilyn Calore was chosen to receive the Educator Award by demonstrating exceptional leadership, commitment, character, and achievement during her tenure at Prep. She has significantly contributed to the quality of education at Prep during her years as the School Counselor and Psychology teacher.
Alica Daly was chosen to receive the Parent Volunteer Award as a dedicated parent who has been involved and continues to be involved in many activities and school committees. Alicia has significantly contributed to the quality of the Prep community as a loyal and devoted supporter of Jubilee, Festival of Trees and the Parents Association. Alicia, and her husband, Jack, are the proud parents of two Prep dolphins, Tuggle ’28, and Mac ‘30.
Pam Jones was chosen to receive the Leader/Friend of Prep Award for her dedication to promoting the ideals, mission, vision, and traditions of Prep while also greatly contributing to the school in a philanthropic manner while advancing Prep’s mission. Pam has served on the Board of Trustees since 2018. Pam, and her husband Chris, are the proud parents of three boys, Griffin ’19, Beckett ’22, and Paxton.
2024 JUBILEE
Prep’s 4th annual “Run for the Roses” Jubilee & Distinguished Citizens Awards Dinner saw its best year yet! Over 130 attendees gathered in Hilton Head Preparatory School’s Middle School gym (thanks to the threat of rain) for a fun time of horse betting, bourbon tasting, watching the 150th Kentucky Derby, dining, dancing, and supporting Prep. Four amazing individuals who were honored during the evening have made an impact on Prep’s community. Dawn Johnson received the Parent Volunteer Award for her outstanding hard work and dedication to volunteering. Catherine Scarminach Lewallen ’95 was chosen to receive the Alumni Award as a committed alumnus who has made a significant contribution to Prep and the community at large. Jennifer Cody Murphy was chosen to receive the Educator Award for her commitment and contributions to Prep for the past 37 years. Anne Middleton was chosen to receive the Leader/ Friend of Prep Award for her dedication to promoting the ideals, mission, and vision of Hilton Head Prep.
Thank you to the members of Hilton Head Prep’s generous community who placed their bids and raised their paddles to help support the purchase of two new school buses. Over $360,000 was raised at this year’s Jubilee making it Prep’s most successful event to date. The event’s success would not have been possible without the support of the amazing sponsors, volunteers, and attendees!
Jubilee Committee
Laren Moskowitz
Yvette Simmons
Christina Mulshenock
Meredith DiMuzio
Danna Stanyard
Sarah DeMaria
Leah Davis
Hillary Dollenberg
Peg Hamilton
Charmin Lee
Rob Hattler ‘91
Alicia Daly
Whitney Walters
Jeff Stanyard
Angela Britschge
Margot Brown
Leslie Hart
Mary Scott
Joe LaValley
Keagan Thein
Jamie Maples
Lynn Bocian
Brad Andrews
Missy Reba
Meg Hawkins ‘98
Joe Nahman, Tom Parker, Jim Brown, Eric Wojcikiewicz, Jamie Berndt, Jennifer Nahman, Lori Parker, Margot Brown, Nanette McDonald, Mark McDonald
Ram Fam: Michael and Katherine Ramseur Riley with Bethany and Gilbert Ramseur
Mackenzie and Sam Bauer '84
Yvette and Daniel Simmons
Jim Sotolongo, Ramara Garrett, Catherine and Cleteus Smith
2024 DCA Honorees: Catherine Scarminach Lewallen ‘95, Anne Middleton, Dawn Johnson, Jennifer Cody Murphy
Andy and Addison ‘06 Cook
Leslie and Jason Hart
Margaret Crenshaw ‘85 and Peg Hamilton
Mary and Douglas Scott
Eric and Hillary Dollenberg
Laren and Daniel Moskowitz
Maria Herrmann '24
Good morning parents, friends, guests, staff and faculty, and especially the class of 2024. It is a privilege to be able to stand up here today and give my two cents on our high school experience. First of all, I would like to thank all of the people who came out here today to support Hilton Head Prep’s finest new graduates. I hope that all of you recognize that your strong encouragement and continued dedication to having these students succeed has not gone unnoticed. I’m here to let you know that you are all greatly appreciated. Personally, I would like to thank my mom and dad for always believing in me and supporting me in any decision I have chosen to make. You both are the reason why I was able to move down to South Carolina and go to Prep in the first place. To my mom, you were always there in times of stress and hardships and continuously tried to calm me down or help me find solutions to the problems I was facing. I wouldn’t be where I am today without having you in my life as my mother. To my dad, even though you are sometimes gone physically, your daily FaceTime calls and texts always reassured me that you were comforting me from afar and being a part of my support team throughout my entire life. You always made sure that I felt close to you, despite some long distances, and have, without a doubt, always been my fatherly figure through blood, sweat, and tears.
Now moving on to the faculty and staff. The dedication to have this class succeed has been apparent ever since I arrived at Prep in tenth grade. From teaching us to communicate with each other through conquering the dreaded senior speech, to allowing us to make up for our failures, the foundations we have learned will shape who we will become in the future. By aiding us in our academic, athletic, artistic, and extracurricular activities through creating service trips, field trips, nature walks, art exhibitions, plays,
recognizing state championships or even being a part of a team, and continuously assisting us in our college or future decisions, our faculty and staff have assured us that our high school experience was the best opportunity we could possibly have.
Last but not least, to my classmates, these past three years have been an engaging and unique experience and I am honored to be a part of it. The lessons that you have taught me allowed me to be a better person and learn how to know more about myself and who I want to be. When we go off to college or whatever your next endeavor may be, even though it’s cliché, I hope that you will make the most out of the next coming years. Whatever you may have done in high school is just the surface of who you will be when you become an adult and get a job or have a new family. Go off into these next years knowing that the decisions you make will shape your future life. Furthermore, whether you’ve been at Prep for most of your life or this is your first year, I hope that you have found a beautiful or meaningful experience to take with you. Even though we will be experiencing so much change in the coming months, know that the foundations and lessons that you have learned throughout your life will guide you. As Elle Woods once said, “You must always have faith in people. And most importantly, you must always have faith in yourself”. Thank you and congratulations!
Thank you, Mrs. Lee, for that wonderful introduction and for letting me spend pretty much every day in your office over the past year; it truly became my home away from home. I hope that it will still be available to me next year if I need to pop in.
This morning, I would like to welcome to our graduation exercises the Board of Trustees, the Head of School, Mr. Horgan, the Upper School Head, Mrs. Webb-Browning, faculty, staff, families, friends, and especially the Hilton Head Preparatory School Class of 2024. I am honored and blessed to be able to share a few thoughts with you today.
Right now, there is a viral post going around on social media. Maybe you have seen it, or maybe you haven’t. It reads, “The guy with the worst grades should get to give a graduation speech, too. Let me hear both sides.” This may seem quite comical and maybe even a bit ridiculous; however, I think upon further investigation this statement holds a deeper truth. What could make a viewer pause and think, rather than simply scroll right by this post? Is it not true that the highest student, the lowest student, and all the students in between possess unique qualities? We all have something in our lives that is distinctively us… maybe it’s excelling in Calculus class like Maria or smashing serves in tennis like Max. In my opinion, when all of our talents are stirred together in the mixing bowl that we call Hilton Head Prep’s Senior Class of 2024, we create a dish that’s entering “Flavortown,” as Guy Fieri would say, on one of my Dad’s favorite shows, “Triple D.”
Now I would like to take a moment to highlight a few more of the outstanding attributes exhibited by my classmates. To start, Danny Fernandez has to go down in Prep history as one of the most spirited students ever, winning the “I Am Prep Award” not once, not twice, but three times. Personally I would go on to credit him with an assist in the scorebook for Ben’s banked-in three-pointer at the State Championship game this year. Thanks, Danny! Next, I also would like to recognize Kylie Foley because of her generous heart. We all know she is always available to help others complete an assignment or explain directions that we missed in class. In fact, she could be one of the reasons I am standing
Tripp Hedden '24
here today as the Salutatorian. Thanks, Kylie! Now let’s think about Alex Zhu, who has shown so much dedication to his family by working countless hours at their restaurants. I can distinctly remember the many times he graciously shared his wealth of food at the lunch table by letting us taste some of his delicious leftovers. Thanks, Alex! And let’s not forget Cody’s surfing ability that inspired his excellent science fair project, Henry’s unbelievable Olympic sailing journey that put us on the map, Martin’s phenomenal Vietnamese math skills that he has shared with us, and AJ’s athletic ability and dedication on the football field. And in the future, when we need a private flight, we all know we can call on Wynn to be our pilot for the day. I am proud to say, as a member of the Class of 2024 at Hilton Head Prep, that we all have something different to bring to the table, which makes us so special as a group. In my opinion, we all have a specific niche or role to fill, and without which, our class would not function nor flourish.
Reinforcing this truth, the Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians Chapter 12, “There is one body, but it has many parts. But all its many parts make up one body.” It goes on to read, “If the whole body were an eye, how could it hear? If the whole body were an ear, how could it smell? God has placed each part in the body just as he wanted it to be. If all the parts were the same, how could there be a body? The eye can’t say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” In fact, it is just the opposite. The parts of the body that seem to be weaker are the ones we can’t do without.” My friends, aren’t these words so true and powerful and don’t they apply to all the members of our class?
But, are we just a class of 34 students or have many other people also played a role in our story? We must also recognize not just our own unique cast of characters, but also those around us who are no less part of this body we call Hilton Head Prep. Thank you to our administrators, especially Mr. Horgan, for jumping right in and trying to improve our experience here at Prep. I can feel that he truly is proud of all of us, and I thank him for his countless fist bumps in the hallways and attendance at our games and at so many other school events. Thank you to our teachers, who take the time to know us as people. They care about our academics, but also care about our activities, our families, and our goals for the future. I believe all of us whose favorite time of the day is entitled, “Break Basketball,” should specifically thank Papa Moe and Mr. Julander for monitoring, refereeing, and maybe even rooting us on during our most intense
games of knockout. In addition, we also should take note of people like Mrs. Peg Hamilton. I’m not sure there’s anyone on campus who loves us more, and she literally does it all, but more specifically, she’s gifted us with Prep’s own unique version of the National Anthem… I wonder… Can Coach Thein get it uploaded to iTunes?
Finally, for the Class of 2024, I brought a visual aid to conclude my time with you today. I hold a bag of puzzle pieces, and I ask you which piece do you consider the most important in the jigsaw puzzle? Some may say the corner. Others might say the ones with straight edges, or maybe it’s the piece that has the most color or pictures. However, is it not the truth that we need each and every piece? We would be unable to complete the puzzle without all of them! Each and every piece is essential. So you, my friends… each of you…you, your uniqueness, and your gifts are essential to the story, which is collectively ours. And just like the puzzle pieces that all work together to create a beautiful picture, I thank everyone here at Hilton Head Prep for being an essential part of our amazing story.
As we depart today, I have one final challenge for you: the Senior Class of 2024. That viral Instagram post I mentioned earlier it ends by saying, “Let me hear BOTH sides.” So, as we close one chapter in our lives today and move on to college, a career, and maybe a family one day, I challenge you to try to hear BOTH sides. Make it a personal goal to see and value the uniqueness of all the people you encounter… whether it’s the student who is at the top of the class or the student who isn’t, whether it’s the loudest person in the room or the quietest one in the room, whether it’s the one who sits in the front row or the one who sits in the back, whether it’s the CEO with the big corner office or the secretary who sits at the front desk. Just like 1 Corinthians tells us, and as our puzzle pieces demonstrate, individually, we can indeed exist, but it is only when we take the time to see and value each and everyone’s gifts that we truly shine, succeed, and author a beautiful new story. May God bless you, the Class of 2024. Go Dolphins.
Mayor Alan Perry '84
Ladies and gentlemen, students, and faculty:
I am incredibly honored to be here today with each and every one of you to celebrate your achievements. And to think, this marks my 40th high school anniversary from Sea Pines Academy. How crazy is that? The year 1984 feels like it was just yesterday. Ronald Reagan was president - he was an actor who did movies with monkeys before getting into politics. We all wore white jackets with our sleeves rolled up - and thought we were REALLY cool. We all played a revolutionary game called "Tetris" - on a giant computer connected to the wall of our house. And we all thought "Where's the beef?" was the funniest thing we ever heard on TV. No - none of that makes any sense to you. Just ask your parents. Some may be old enough to
remember those things…some of them.
This is 2024… a momentous year for all of you. I extend my deepest gratitude to the administration for granting me this opportunity to take part In this great day.
First, to the parents of the graduating class: today is as much your celebration as it is your children's. From the moment they took their first steps to this monumental day of their high school graduation, you have been their pillars of strength, cheerleaders, and guiding lights.
You have sacrificed countless hours, poured endless love, and invested boundless resources into nurturing these young minds. Your dedication and commitment have laid the foundation upon which their success stands today. Through every triumph and setback,
you have been there, offering words of encouragement, lending a listening ear, and providing a steady hand to guide them through life's challenges. Congratulations on a job well done! Graduates, make sure to thank them, too!
Students, as you gather here with your classmates, preparing to bid farewell to your high school journey through graduation, remember that you are forever bound by shared experiences and cherished memories. Whether you've spent one year or twelve together, you hold a unique bond that no one else can claim. As you embark on your individual paths, I urge you to stay connected, join the alumni network, and remain actively engaged. Who knows, among you could be the next visionary leader!
Unfortunately, I don't foresee a 40-year class reunion for my class. Over the years, we've become scattered and lost touch. However, last year, I had the privilege of attending the 40-year reunion for the class of 1983. Those three days felt like no time had passed at all. I reunited with my best friends from a time when we were growing up and discovering ourselves. Memories flooded our conversations—some bittersweet, but most were filled with laughter and joy. The best part was creating new memories with those old friends, which will last a lifetime. Again, I encourage you to stay in touch with your classmates.
But today is about you and the people who stood by your side to get you here: your family, friends, teachers, and mentors. While family and friends will always support you, tomorrow, today, NOW marks the beginning of your journey to shape your own life. Whether you're heading to college or university, taking a gap year, or exploring alternative paths, the choice is yours.
As you stand on the precipice of your future, you've likely been asked about your goals. But I challenge you to ask
yourself, what is my plan to achieve them? Goals are essential, but having a clear plan to achieve them matters even more. Whether it's about family life, where you want to live, the career you pursue, or any other aspect, remember that a well-thought-out plan can turn dreams into reality. If you are unsure of your goals, that's okay. Find your passion or that to which you wish to dedicate yourself and let that drive you towards your goals.
A friend once told me there are two types of people in the world: those who see a mountain as an insurmountable challenge and tackle it head-on. But I propose a third type—the person who helps others overcome their mountains. Sometimes, you may find yourself in the position to either help or be helped. Don't hesitate to help or to seek assistance when needed; recognize your strengths and weaknesses. Throughout your life, you will continue to encounter many challenges. Let them be opportunities to build inner strength and show your ability to grow. Remember, failure only occurs when you stay down after being knocked over.
Allow me to share a significant hurdle I faced and overcame in my life, a journey that spanned years. During my early education, it became evident that I had a learning disability—I am dyslexic. Reading a book, a page, or even short paragraphs posed a considerable challenge for me. But I did not let it hold me back. I developed my own meticulous routine of breaking down each paragraph into its key components—who, what, where, when, and how—just to retain what I read. This approach, unfortunately, turned me away from reading altogether. Consequently, achieving the title of valedictorian was out of reach for me.
However, through perseverance and a willingness to confront my difficulties, I enrolled in a speed-reading course. Gradually, my reading skills and comprehension improved, instilling a much-needed boost in confidence.
That confidence carried over into the rest of my life. I discovered areas where I excelled, such as mathematics, art, sports, social interaction, and leadership. Life, I realized, is about navigating
both strengths and weaknesses. We all encounter situations or obstacles that shape our lives. If I had allowed my challenges to dictate my path, I would not be addressing you today as a proud graduate of this school and the Mayor of Hilton Head Island.
This is what I learned in the classroom, in town council chambers, and in life. When it comes to challenges, anticipate their presence and embrace them as opportunities for growth. Let your response to obstacles reflect the values instilled in you by your family and teachers. The future belongs to you, and with dedication, perseverance, and unwavering determination, you have
the power to shape it according to your dreams.
So, as you embrace your diplomas and bid farewell to high school, remember the profound gift of education you've received. Embrace challenges as stepping stones to growth, and let your journey be guided by perseverance and determination.
Now, it's time to bid adieu to high school and step into the next chapter of your life. Go forth with courage, ambition, and the belief that you can shape your own destinies.
Class of 2024: congratulations. Make us proud!
HILTON HEAD PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Jeep Patrick ‘24 delivering the Invocation
Erin Blaskowski ‘24 singing Imagine for the Class of 2024 during the ceremony.
Ben Frey ‘24 with Howell Up De Graff ‘35 for the Passing of the Class Banner.
Bridget Wilkie ‘24 accepting the Dolphin Spirit Award for the Class of 2024.
Christopher Patane ‘24, Jeep Patrick ‘24, Austin Potter ’24, and Maxim Verellen ‘24.
Jennifer Cody Murphy received a recognition of service to Hilton Head Preparatory School for 37 years of service.
Wynn Alsko ‘24 with his parents Mike and Gillian Alsko. Gillian is a current member on the Board of Trustees for Hilton Head Preparatory School.
Tripp Hedden ‘24 ringing the bell in celebration that the 2024 Commencement Ceremony has begun.
Keatyn Hammel-Millard, Victoria Hawkins, Ashlyn Kay, Piper Lossada, Alice Carmines, Izabelle Mayo, Amy Cox, Charlotte Moe
Coach: Andie Helms, Mike Helms
Middle School Boys Basketball (A)
Charlie Diamond, Ty Eanes, Michael Dowling, Jenson Goodwin, Matteo Tornusciolo, Christopher Pinckney, Aubri SingletonJones, Clayton Kowalke, Michael Reba, Tuggle Daly, Sacha Herman Chole
Coach: Mike Weaver, Richard Keefner
Middle School Boys Basketball (B)
Kellen Mulshenock, Kellen Tokarski, Edward Hughes, Joseph Walters, August Dollenberg, Hudson Dooley, Cole Rogers, Landon Smith, Charlie Reba, Clark Scott, Robert Gower, Benjamin Wiseman (Not pictured: Hopper Hull)
Coach: Dan Sheehan, Jeff Stanyard
JV Boys Basketball
Max Diamond, Johnathan DeMaria, Sam Middleton, Jackson Kuehn, Matthew Moe, Daniel Guy, Dylan Fernandez, Levi Wright, Tyler Britschge, Alston Adams, Calvin Middleton
Coach: TJ Leonard
Varsity Boys Basketball
William Barron, Mehmet Erol, Connor Campbell, AJ Barger, Chase Blanton, Benjamin Frey, Luke Eanes, Joseph Wiseman, Jason Britschge, Brendan Moore, Jeep Patrick, Tripp Hedden
Coach: Richard Barron
Girls Varsity Basketball
Kelly Graham, Molly Lorenz, Brooke Heins, Sophia Haroutunian, Sophia Brooks, Phoebe Helms, Molly Helms, Courtney Campbell, Merritt Risher, Ava Zeoli
Coach: Phillip Hartman
Boys Varsity Baseball
Calvin Middleton, Cody Hughes, Tyler Britschge, Sam Bocian, Jackson Stanyard, Jacob Pirkey, Paulie Smith, Oliver Barricks, Finnian Rooney, Sam Middleton, Connor Campbell
Coach: Chris Wells, Hiram Rodriguez, Phil Youtsey, Ken Soucy
Middle School Boys Baseball
Charlie Diamond, Hudson Kuehn, Charles Reba, Declan Rooney, Windham Walters, Ramsey Stanyard, Khalen Bruce, Jackson Kuehn, Tuggle Daly, Clayton Kowalke, Owen Hughes, Ty Eanes, Michael Dowling
Coach: Jeff Stanyard, Dan Sheehan
Boys Varsity Soccer
Middle School Boys Soccer
Landon Smith, Peyton Marra, Logan Downing, William Spille, Rhys Chambers, Russel O’Neill, Joshua Hernandez, Sacha Herman Chole, Arthur Doyle, Roby Horner, Hunter Davis, Robert Gower, Leo Esquivel, West Wilkins, Erick Abarca Garcia
Davis Cargill, Johnathan DeMaria, Cody Wilbert, Aiven Lorenz, James Aragon, Lucas Blanton, Chase Blanton, Colin Paris, Beck Marshall, Ricky Klippel, Jacob Vickrey, Tarquinn LaValley, Dylan Fernandez, Finn Gregory, Maksim Pekar, Joban Johal, Ege Mehmet Erol, Jacob White, Danny Fernandez, Charles Carter, Tommy Fernandez, AJ Franseen
Coach: Hector Zamora
Middle School
Girls Soccer
Charlotte Moe, Rachel Del Gaizo, Avery Shroyer, Alice Carmines, Sophia Moe, Lila Daye White, Molly Lorenz, Madelyn Dooley , Mackenzie Cherrington-Dunton
Garret Fader, Jack Crousore, Tripp Hedden, Austin Potter, Jeffrey Adams, Max Diamond, Jeep Patrick, Tag Graziano, Cade Kriscunas
Coach: Chris Tremblay
Track & Field
KeLidre Frost, Jacob Britschge, Molly O’Regan, Catherine Graham, Harper Yellon, Kelly Graham, Erin Cleary, Auhbri Singleton-Jones, Charley Frey, Ray Jones, Lucy Yellon, Sophia Grahovac, Alexis Luckasevic, Thayer McLaughlin, Levi Wright, Isaiah Cozza
Coach: Ray Jones, Keagan Thein
Varsity Boys Tennis
August Dollenberg, Alex Zhu, Alexander Fink, Jack Cozza, Christian Arnold, Alfred Caminos, Hopper Hull, James Mustard, Wyatt Harmer, John Wade Moody, John Nail III, Clayton Emmert
Coach: Coach Arnold
SCISA 3A STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
2024 Varsity Girls Soccer Team State Champions
PGA High School National Invitational Runner Up
2024 Varsity Boys Golf Team State Champions
2024 Varsity Boys Basketball State Champions
Players: Jeep Patrick, Jeff Adams, Tag Graziano, Jack Crousore, and Cade Kriscunas were the five players to represent South Carolina during the PGA HS National Invitational at Fields Ranch at PGA Frisco this summer.
2023 Varsity Girls Golf Team State Champions
2023 Varsity Girls Tennis Team State Champions
1st Place State Champions Swimming
SAMANTHA FENSTERMAKER '27
Women's 50 Freestyle, Women's 100 Freestyle
MARK LOFYE '25
Men's 200 Freestyle, Men's 500 Freestyle
IZZY LOSSADA '28
Women's 100 Breast
Bridget Wilkie 2023 SCISA Female Golfer of the Year
The HHP Booster Club would like to THANK all of our very generous sponsors and members from the 2023/2024 season. With the funds raised the athletic department along side with the Booster Club were able to provide necessary equipment, uniforms, and resources for our student athletes. These contributions
have made a significant impact on the success and wellbeing of our players. We are grateful for your generosity and dedication to our school's athletic programs. Thank you for believing in our student athletes and helping them reach their full potential. Your support does not go unnoticed, and we are truly thankful for
everything you have done for our Booster Club and our athletes.
We are looking forward to the 2024/2025 season! More information about Booster Club for the upcoming school year will be available soon.
2024 ATHLETIC SIGNINGS
Bridget Wilkie Golf
Notre Dame
Amelia Karr Tennis
Colorado College
Max Verellen Tennis
Sewanee
Jeep Patrick Golf
Presbyterian College
Jack Crousore Golf
University of Minnesota
**photography by Iryna Ferre Photography
Ricky Manchala Tennis
University of Mary Washington
Erin Sanchez Tennis
Molloy University
Dodge Brooks signed with South Georgia Tormenta FC to play professional soccer.
A Record-Breaking $672,014 Raised!
We are thrilled to announce that the Prep Pride Fund has reached an incredible milestone, raising a total of$672,014 this year – 149% of Prep’s goal of $450,000! This record-breaking achievement is a testament to the unwavering support and dedication of our entire Hilton Head Prep community!
Thanks to the generous contributions from parents, alumni, grandparents, faculty, friends, and the Board of Trustees, we have secured the resources necessary to continue providing an exceptional education and enriching experiences for our students. Your financial support, regardless of the amount, has made a significant impact on maintaining the school’s excellence and leadership in academic and experiential learning.
By supporting the Prep Pride Fund, you have demonstrated your firm commitment to Hilton Head Prep and empowered the next generation of Dolphins to make their mark on the world. Together, we have ensured that Prep remains a beacon of academic excellence and a nurturing environment for our students.
A RECAP OF YOUR GIFTS IN ACTION
Professional Development: Orton Gillingham Training and AP PreCalculus
All School Field Day
4th Grade Trip to the Port Royal Sound Foundation Maritime Center
6th Grade Earth Day Field Trip to South Beach
New Band Equipment
Fox Grape Entrance Security & Beautification
New American Flag for the Flagpole
Implementation of charter services for bus trips.
Margot Brown
Director of the Prep Pride Chief Advancement Officer Fund & Alumni Relations
New bullpens for the Baseball Field.
Resurfaced Field House Floor
Increased professional development opportunities for Faculty.
Enhanced Field Trip opportunities.
New Field House Scoreboard Calculators for the Middle School
Throughout the summer Prep is renovating new spaces that include a new Lower School art room, new business office, new advancement office, and a new school store.
During the spring former NBA player Chris Herren visited Hilton Head Prep to speak with 8th - 12th grade students on Changing the Conversation on Substance Abuse.
Renovation of Middle School Gym Floor
Alumni Class of 2020
WHERE ARE THEY GOING?
Catch up with a few members of the Class of 2020 as they stand at the threshold of a new era, ready to step into the world with their freshly minted degrees in hand. This cohort, having navigated an unprecedented Hilton Head Prep senior year and start to their college experience marked by pandemic restrictions, has emerged resilient and adaptable. As they graduate, their paths are as diverse as their ambitions, spanning from pursuing advanced degrees and entering competitive job markets to embarking on exciting new ventures and contributing to innovative research. The journey ahead promises to be transformative, with each graduate poised to make a significant impact in their chosen fields.
Brittany Hanna ‘20
College: University of South Carolina Graduated Magna Cum Lade
Degree: Psychology major, educational counseling, and criminal justice minors
Postgrad Plans: Brittany will continue her education at The University of South Carolina in a two-year graduate program working towards an Education Specialist degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Greta Bonomo ‘20
College: Sewanee: the University of the South - Honors: Omicron Delta Kappa (2022-2024), Order of the Gown (2021-2024), Dean's List (2020-2022)
Degree: Environmental Arts and Humanities and Mathematics
Postgrad Plans:: Greta is currently employed at Teton Science Schools in Jackson, Wyoming working as an Environmental Educator. She is currently applying to graduate programs in Landscape Architecture.
Caitlin Heidel ‘20
College: University of Tennessee
Degree: Majored in Deaf Studies - Educational Interpreting & Linguistics. Caitlin completed the 1794 Honors Program and received two separate degrees in 4 years Summa Cum Laude.
Postgrad Plans: Caitlin received the Cheshire Schneider Advocacy scholarship for full tuition at Campbell, and will be attending Campbell Law School in the fall with the goal of becoming a disability rights advocate attorney.
Mackenzie Joyner ‘20
College: UNC Chapel Hill
Degree: Majored in Advertising and Public Relations with a minor in History
Postgrad Plans: She is moving to New York City to pursue a Master’s in Sports Management at Columbia University to one day work in sports marketing.
Maddie Frank ‘20
College: Clemson UniversitySumma Cum Laude
Degree: Majored in Biochemistry and minored in Mathematical Sciences
Postgrad Plans: Maddie will begin her Masters in Anesthesia Science at South University in Savannah to become an Anesthesiologist Assistant.
Kierstin Clark ‘20
College: Cleveland State UniversityValedictorian
Degree: Majored in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Mathematics. She graduated as a four year student-athlete on the women’s soccer team and a member of the Mandel Honors College
Postgrad Plans: Kierstin will be attending UNC Chapel Hill in the fall to pursue a PhD in the Department of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics
AJ Gilpin ‘20
College: Lehigh University - Graduated Cum Laude
Degree: Marketing Major & Chinese Minor
Postgrad Plans: AJ will be moving to Dallas and working in sales.
Susan Brooks ‘20
College: University of Tennessee
Degree: Susan graduated with a degree in Journalism and Electronic Media
Postgrad Plans: Susan has decided to move to Paris, France, and become an au pair while enrolling in French language courses on the side.
Andrew Prater ‘20
College: University of South Carolina - Graduated Cum Laude
Degree: Double Major in Management and Operations/Supply Chain with a minor in Sports/Entertainment Management
Postgrad Plans: Attaining APICS CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional) Certification along with plans to move to Nashville
Lauren Waddles ‘20
College: Samford University - Cum Laude/Student-Athlete
Degree: Majored in Finance and Economics
Postgrad Plans: Lauren will be working as an Investment Banking Analyst at Stephens Inc. in Dallas, TX.
Stone McDonald ‘20
College: Lafayette University (Student Athlete)
Degree: BA in Economics with a Minor in Data Sciences
Postgrad Plans: He will attend Vanderbilt in the fall in pursuit of his Masters in Finance.
Ella Alsko ‘20
College: Furman UniversityGraduated Cum Laude
Degree: Majored in Communication Studies on the Rhetoric and Advocacy track and minored in Visual Strategy
Postgrad Plans: Ella is working on the island for the summer while actively interviewing for jobs in Atlanta.
Felipe Mendoza ‘20
College: University of Chicago
Degree: Economics and Philosophy
Postgrad Plans:: Felipe will be living in Chicago post-grad, working at Deloitte as a Strategy Analyst in their consulting department starting in September.
Anna Pellicci ‘20
College: Clemson University - Graduated Magna Cum Laude
Degree: Early Childhood Education
Postgrad Plans: Anna will be in a one-year graduate program working in an elementary school to get her Masters in Education.
Kailey
Tucker ‘20
College: Flagler College
Degree: Kailey graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s of Arts in English with a Writing Concentration and a Minor in Strategic Communication and Public Relations. She was the Class of 2024 Benediction Speaker for Baccalaureate and earned the English Departmental Award.
Postgrad Plans: Kailey will attend the University of Florida to pursue a Master of Arts in Mass Communication and Public Relations.
A COVID senior prank:
These cards were left behind by the Class of 2020 and are still being discovered today.
Alumni Class Notes
BIRTHS
JD Hessinger '05 and his wife, Angela, welcomed their second child this year - Oliver. Their first child, Eleanor, starts kindergarten this fall. They live in Wheaton, IL and dream of making it back south. JD currently is a staff psychologist at a VA Medical Center and Assistant Professor at Loyola University Chicago.
MARRIAGES
Kayla Schauss Barrientos ‘12 and her husband, Dr. Christian Barrientos, joyfully welcomed their daughter, Eliana Jane, on May 28 in Greenville, SC.
Dylan Hodge Rosser '09 and Elly Anne Howard of New York were married on May 11, 2024 in New Orleans, LA. His groomsmen included Michael Soby '08, Will Hodde '09, Ben Perry '09, Alex Blair '09. Dylan's sister Carly Rosser Moore '05 served as his Best Man.
Ryan Cadden ‘12
married Mary Rose Rappa on May 18, 2024 at Berkeley Hall in Bluffton, S.C. They currently live in Charlotte, N.C. where Ryan works in Consulting at EY.
Robert Schulze '07, wife, Jessica, and family welcomed baby Everett last December and moved to Greer, SC in May of this year. Robert is currently regional manager for American Roofing Company. Daughters Madison and Elizabeth are 5 and 10.
Brooke Churchich ’13, married Cheston Wesson on June 8, 2024 in Belfair Plantation. The happy couple just built a new home in Hendersonville, TN. Other wedding guests from the Class of 2013 included Charlie Wilmot ‘13 (Lily) and Jill Brunori ‘13.
UPDATES
Kim Perry Bowen, ’75 along with her siblings, Reid Perry ’77, Cheryl Perry Chandler ’78, Mayor Alan Perry ’84 and their spouses spent the weekend together on Hilton Head Island. Kim and her husband John just celebrated 25 years of marriage.
Bob Guss ’81 graduated from Clemson with a BSCE. His career has been spent as a civil engineer for the Navy. He and his wife Jerri Ann live in Seacrest, Florida. Their son Robert Thomas Guss II is attending Florida Southern.
Paul Halloran ’95, Josh Peeples ’95, Catherine Scarminach Lewallen ’95, Keith Aikman ’95, and Rick Saunders reunited at the Celebration of Life for Tom Peeples.
Andrew Hazel ’06, Andrew Kolb ’00, Austin Potter ’24, and Bobby Potter won the Coach Basirico Scholarship Golf Tournament in June.
Margaret Crenshaw ’85 and Justin Stone ’19 had a blast working on stage together this past summer at Sea Glass Stage at Coligny Theatre, bringing the ridiculously funny Great American Trailer Park Musical to life. Margaret went to school with Justin’s mom Holly Cork ‘84 back in the day. Justin, is a junior in college, pursuing a degree in Theatre at Winthrop University and Margaret has a BFA in Theatre from Auburn University, is a full time realtor, and sits on the board for Sea Glass Stage Company.
Kirsten Cadden ‘10 got engaged to Andrew Cantella on July 3rd in Nantucket, Massachusetts. Both families spent the weekend celebrating at the future grooms parents home in Nantucket.
Forest Richardson ’14 and Andrew Kocis were engaged on June 19th in Linwood, NC where Forest grew up going with her family. They currently live in Charlotte and will be married on Hilton Head Island in June of 2025.
Sarah DeLoach ’17 earned her Juris Doctorate this past spring from the University of Richmond School of Law with distinction in Family Law and will begin work at a firm in San Diego this fall. Congratulations, Sarah!
Sophia Rudloff ’17 graduated from Northeastern University with her JD and Master in Public Policy. She practices Education Law in Massachusetts.
Sarah Orie '18 started a new role with Burson in the Atlanta office as an Account Executive/Social Analyst on the Social Listening and Intelligence Analytics team. Burson is a New York based global public relations and communication services agency. Sarah started her career as an Assistant Account Executive on the Social Innovation team at Fleishman Hillard Atlanta office after graduating from Clemson University in May of 2022. She currently lives and works in the Old Fourth Ward area of Atlanta.
Ashlyn Parsick ‘22 was elected President of the Student Body at Limestone University where she is a rising junior and member of the soccer team.
Wynn Alsko ‘24 spent the first few weeks of summer after graduating from Hilton Head Prep in Africa where he successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro (19,341 ft) as well as worked in the surrounding community with the Red Sweater Project. He also just earned his private pilot license. He will attend Auburn University this fall studying Aviation Management.
Nina Morgan ’23 Joined Thrift Point at High Point University, a club that promotes thrifting clothes. She also modeled in the on-campus Thrift Point fashion show!
Paul Cifaldi, III passed away on June 21, 2024 following a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was a 1981 graduate of Sea Pines Academy and attended the College of Charleston. His joyful soul and mischievous nature fostered many friendships in his youth, most of which were on hand to see him off at his passing. His love of connection to others, and the reciprocity he experienced in that love is an enviable legacy. He was a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Barbara ("Bebe"), a loving father to his children, Olivia and Paul IV (Olivia), and the biggest of big brothers to his three sisters, Lisette Cifaldi '83, Nicole Feeny '85 (Kevin), and Robin Cifaldi '88 (Amanda). In 2008, Paul answered the call to help establish the South Coastal FCA. Over the past 15+ years Paul's love of Christ combined with his considerable skill set resulted in the unprecedented growth of that ministry. Paul will be remembered fondly for his love of God and family, his humor and playfulness, intellect, passion for FCA, deep and enduring friendships, love of Hilton Head, being a devoted husband and father, and a good round of frisbee golf.
David Bachelder davidjr@charter1commercial.com 2003
David Butler Davebutler2@gmail.com 2004
Faleisha Brown Brownf2@fultonschools.org 2005
Megan Donley meganvdonley@gmail.com 2006
Addison Goss Cook addisongcook@gmail.com
Randy Ferree randyferree@air-watch.com 2007
Class Rep Needed 2008
Carson Fraser carolyncfraser@gmail.com
2009
Tim Neil neiltim13@gmail.com
Nicole Schultz Nicoleschultz22@gmail.com 2010
Lyle Izzillo lyleizzillo@gmail.com
Jarrett Nixon jarretn@clemson.edu 2011
Reid D’Amico Reidwdamico@gmail.com
Carly Smith Csmith6@uoregon.eu 2012
Emily Blackshire emilyblackshire@aol.com
Marc Halseth marchalseth@aol.com 2013
Ellie Nixon Coloradogirl555@hotmail.com
Alli Kenneweg allikfreed@gmail.com 2014
Greg Warren greg.warren@mail.house.gov
John Sheehan Johnsheehan5@gmail.com
2015
Adam Schauss schaussadam@yahoo.com
Trevor Marbut Trevormarbut1@gmail.com
2016
Bailey Kaiser baileynkaiser@gmail.com
2017
Ava Nixon anixon67@gmail.com
Ryan Nimmer rpnimmer@gmail.com
2018
Davis Puckey davispuckey@gmail.com
Julia Gigante juliaisoldegigante@yahoo.com 2019
Justin Perez snowboarderjustin@gmail.com
Hunter Hopman teamhopman21@gmail.com 2020
Brittany Hanna brittanyhanna613@gmail.com
Caitlin Heidel caitlinonhhi@gmail.com 2021
Grace Lanier grace.lanier9@gmail.com 2022
Tristan Bonomo tbonomo23@gmail.com
JJ Hayes jjhayes00@gmail.com 2023
Gunnar Bonomo gunnarbonomo@gmail.com
2024
Class Rep Needed
Heritage Alumni Social
Prep's Heritage Alumni Social was another big hit!
This year’s was held on the 17th fairway at the Cook residence (a HUGE thank you to Addison Goss Cook '06 and her husband, Andy!). Alumni enjoyed delicious pulled pork made by Andrew Hazel '06, shrimp salad made by Margaret Crenshaw '85 and beer and Bloody Mary's provided by Lincoln & South and Bloody Point Mixing Co
We enjoyed seeing all of the Prep alumni in attendance!
Hilton Head Preparatory School
8 Fox Grape Road
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Parents of alumni: If this magazine is addressed to a son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please e-mail us at ldavis@hhprep.org with his or her new address. Thank you!
