T H E S C H O O L M AG A Z I N E • S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
GUIDED BY A
Civic Spirit A N N I E TA U E R C H R I S TO F F ’ 9 6
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JK sheep heart dissection CURIOSITY BEATS STRONG during our annual junior kindergarten sheep heart dissection! Putting on medical gloves and using real tools, our JK scientists explore the chambers, valves, and veins of an organ roughly the same size as a human heart. This hands-on experience is more than just part of our JK science unit—it sparks a lifelong love for discovery. Turn to page 22 to read how this exact activity inspired several of our newest alumnae to pursue careers in healthcare. You can scan a QR code to watch a video of them fondly remembering this JK activity. Photo by Danielle Katz
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M E S S AG E | F R O M T H E H E A D O F S C H O O L
dear friends,
Even if you weren’t born in Memphis, attending Hutchison made the city a major part of your
life. We encourage girls to learn about the city, understand government and leadership, and give back through service. While many students leave Memphis for college, many return because they love this city. The two alumnae featured in this issue chose to serve Memphis in government positions. The Honorable Annie Tauer Christoff ’96 is a U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge for the Western District of Tennessee. She assists District Judges with federal cases by handling preliminary, pretrial, and evidentiary proceedings. Christoff didn’t know she would end up a judge, but she is Dr. Kristen Ring
passionate about impacting the city she loves. Read about her journey on page 26. Meredith Franklin Keaton ’08 remembers how her involvement in Model UN and Youth in
Government while at Hutchison may have been a window into her work as a senior legislative analyst and now deputy chief administrative officer for the Memphis City Council. Keaton left Memphis to attend Saint Louis University, but she knew that she would return to Memphis and find a way to make a difference. She is proud not only of helping the city, but the many people who call the city home. Read her story starting on page 36. There’s also a wonderful story about recent graduates who remembered how they acquired their love of science from an annual junior kindergarten lab about the heart. The accompanying video (available via QR code) will tug at your heartstrings as you see them watching their younger selves and realizing what an impact that lab had on them. That story starts on page 22. I invite you to think about what you love about Memphis and how you give back to the city we call home. Warmly,
Kristen Ring, Ed.D. | President and Head of School
MISSION
E D I TO R
P H OTO G R A P H Y
Hutchison School is dedicated to
Max Maddock
Jessica Coulson, Brandon Dill,
a c a d e m i c exc e l l e n c e a n d t o t h e
Director of Communications
Danielle Katz, Melanie Melugin,
p a ra l l e l d eve l o p m e n t o f m i n d , b o d y,
mmaddock@hutchisonschool.org
Gabrielle Prewitt, and various
a n d sp i ri t a s it educates yo ung wo men f o r s u cce s s i n co l l e g e a n d fo r l i ve s o f
C O N S U LT I N G E D I TO R
Hutchison constituents
integrity and responsible citizenship.
Lori Guy
Hutchison Magazine is published by
Director of Strategy
the Hutchison Communications Office.
H U TC H I S O N M AG A Z I N E
lguy@hutchisonschool.org
SEPTEMBER 2026 PRESIDENT AND HEAD OF SCHOOL Kristen D. Ring, Ed.D.
Please forward address changes to:
D I R E C TO R O F A LU M N A E S T R AT E GY
HUTCHISON SCHOOL
Caroline Schaefer ’08
1740 RIDGEWAY ROAD
cschaefer@hutchisonschool.org
MEMPHIS, TN 38119
DESIGNER
or khouston@hutchisonschool.org
Barbara Himber 2 | Hutchison
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Jessica Coulson Photography
“ Every time you choose effort,
you’re choosing your future self: the one who knows that she can learn anything, adapt to anything, and build the life that she’s proud of. — Meredith Franklin Keaton ’08
”
CONTENTS FEATURES
ALUMNAE PROFILES
6 Congratulations to the Class of 2026
A Nonlinear Path to a Dream Job:
8 Graduation: Class of 2026 16 From Passion to Purpose: Creativity, Leadership, and Service in Action 17 Lifting as They Climb: How Our Young Alumnae Are Paving the Way for Hutchison Students
26 Annie Tauer Christoff ’96: Finding a True Calling
36 Meredith Franklin Keaton ’08:
From Model UN to City Hall: Living a Life of Service, Leadership, and Civic Action
ALUMNAE NEWS 42 Alumnae Award Honorees
18 Theatre: Steel Magnolias and The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe
44 Alumnae Weekend
22 How a JK Heart Dissection Inspired Healthcare Careers
DEPARTMENTS
56 What Are Our Young Alums Up To?
4 Board of Trustees and Leadership Team 32 Thank You to Our Parent Ambassadors 40 Mahjong at Hutchison
Cover photo by Jessica Coulson Photography
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Palmer Smith, Susan Stephenson, Bryan Jordan, Chris Clothier, McCown Smith, Jason Higginbotham, Will Deupree III, Ragan Crawford Magness ’88, Dr. Kristen Ring, Betsy Horn, Emily Bryce Bowie ’00, Malaney Cross George ’06, Jenny Werner Carter ’89, Amanda Eckels Goetze ’94, Dr. Shari Jefferies, Chris Crosby, Lindsay Horner Lewis ’99, Dr. Jamila Smith-Young, Paul Berryhill, Dr. Jacques E. Samson, Ginger McCullough Wilson ’97, McLean T. Wilson; not pictured: Hardin Barton Kimmel ’92, Veazey Gully Krausnick ’78
2 026- 2027 B OA R D O F TRUSTE ES The Hutchison board of trustees is the guardian of the school’s mission. In partnership with the head of school, the board sets the vision and strategy for the school and ensures sound financial management and proper stewardship of resources. Dr. Kristen Ring PRESIDENT & HEAD OF SCHOOL
Ragan Crawford Magness ’88 CHAIR
Chris Crosby VICE CHAIR
Jason Higginbotham TREASURER
Paul Berryhill Jenny Werner Carter ’89 Chris Clothier Will Deupree III Malaney Cross George ’06 Amanda Eckels Goetze ’94 Betsy Horn Dr. Shari Jefferies Bryan Jordan Hardin Barton Kimmel ’92
Veazey Gully Krausnick ’78 Lindsay Horner Lewis ’99 Dr. Jacques E. Samson McCown Smith Palmer Smith Dr. Jamila Smith-Young Susan S. Stephenson McLean T. Wilson Ginger McCullough Wilson ’97
Emily Bryce Bowie ’00 S E C R E TA RY
Hutchison appreciates the service of our retiring board members: Edward J. Dobbs | Jason Farmer | Megan Wellford Grinder ’91 | Sequoia Taylor ’04 | Craig L. Weiss 4 | Hutchison
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Bryan Jordan
2 02 6- 2027 L E A D E R S H I P TEAM
Welcome, new board members!
Paul Berryhill
Dr. Jacques E. Samson
Great schools are distinguished by exceptional teamwork and collaboration across the organization. Our faculty and staff are led by a dynamic group of individuals known as our leadership team under the guidance of the head of school. Dr. Kristen Ring
Kristen Farmer Davis ’99
PRESIDENT & HEAD OF SCHOOL
DIRECTOR OF THE INSTITUTE FOR RESPONSIBLE CITIZENSHIP
Catherine Chubb ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL
Jennifer Anton DIRECTOR OF TEACHING & LEARNING
Elizabeth Chisholm Jordan ’86 EARLY CHILDHOOD HEAD
Katharine Duerr Kent ’95 LOWER SCHOOL HEAD
Trey Wilson MIDDLE SCHOOL HEAD
Katy Nair UPPER SCHOOL HEAD
Ross Spain ATHLETICS DIRECTOR
Tonya Faulkner DIRECTOR OF STUDENT CULTURE
Caroline Schaefer ’08 DIRECTOR OF ALUMNAE STRATEGY
Sarah Wright DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
McCown Smith
Melissa Baker CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Lori Guy DIRECTOR OF STRATEGY
Laura Shy ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR
Max Maddock DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Ginger McCullough Wilson ’97 Hutchison | 5
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Congratulations to th Elizabeth Kate Adams Auburn University
Harper Anne Behnke Wake Forest University
Sarah Campbell Alexander University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Mary Herrington Bennett University of Arkansas
Kathryn Marie Wassmer Clark Tulane University*
Caroline Wallis Gamble University of Tennessee, Knoxville*
Iris Henley Bird University of Arkansas
Elizabeth Campbell Conrad The University of Alabama*
Elizabeth Fahey Gooch University of Tennessee, Chattanooga
Laura Eloise Hayden University of Mississippi
Lydia Dickerson Hutton University of Mississippi
Gabrielle Alexandra Hill Xavier University of Louisiana
Maren Raushel Levy Texas Christian University
Olivia Katherine Landess University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Neely Hamilton Raby The University of Alabama
Sallie Katherine Hall University of Mississippi
Ava Claire Jones University of Pennsylvania
Maya Jordan Pentecost Ithaca College*
Charlotte Rainer Poag New York University
Morgan Symone Perry Arizona State University
Hadley Elizabeth Rhett University of Mississippi
Mia Rose Ralph The University of Alabama
Kali Wright Ryan University of Arkansas*
Kathryn Marian Weber University of Arkansas*
Sarah Elizabeth Cunningham University of Mississippi*
Sophia Rose Henderson Tuskegee University
Lucy Truitt Lamb University of Mississippi
Ally Claire Brignole University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Emma Elizabeth Goughnour George Washington University*
Eleanor Louise Jacobs University of Colorado Boulder*
Melinda Diane Moses Hampton University
Scott McKinnon Arnold University of Colorado Boulder*
Lily Louise Simpson University of Georgia
Sammye Kate Selecman University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Jane McPherson Weeks University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Ellison Louise Wilkinson University of Tennessee, Knoxville
6 | H u t c h i s o n | * Denotes Honors College
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o the Class of 2026! Eleanor Cunningham Bailey Texas Christian University*
Farrah Nacari Brown Lipscomb University
Anne Tyler Bartusch University of Tennessee, Knoxville*
Molly Grace Browne University of South Alabama
Zoe Elisabeth Evans University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Sims Helen Burke University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Alice Clark Fairey University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Riley Baker Hardin University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Elizabeth Eleanor Halliday University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Madeline Emily Harriman University of Virginia*
Jane Eleanor Keras University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Nellie Kathryn Keras University of Colorado Boulder*
Helen Wright Prather University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Samantha Jane Ring Northeastern University
Alia McKim Sims Georgia Institute of Technology
Eva Hampton Lackie The University of Alabama
Margaret Catlett Miller University of Mississippi*
Baili Alexandria Price Spelman College
Hannah Grace Roark University of Mississippi*
Mary Allen Wallace University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Sophia Kemmons Wilson Belmont University
Haney Evelyn Harris University of Mississippi*
Lillian Rodgers Hussey University of Mississippi*
Taylor Gray McAdams University of Arkansas*
Minha Afshan Mahmood The University of Alabama
Anna Elizabeth Chiozza University of Colorado Boulder*
Collins Elizabeth Farmer The University of Texas at Austin
Kennon Lane Humphreys Southern Methodist University*
Samantha Rose Hulbert University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Anna Marie Pollan Southern Methodist University
Mary Drew Beard The University of Alabama
Janie Mattox Ra Johns Hopkins University*
Lillian Grace Robbins The University of Alabama*
Avery Camille Webb The University of Alabama*
Molly Ritchey Wondries University of Mississippi
Amariah Marie Woods Middle Tennessee State University Hutchison | 7
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CLASS OF 2026
Graduation
Left: Alice Fairey, Lily Simpson, Ava Jones, Lucy Lamb, Minha Mahmood, Jane Keras, and Morgan Perry 8 | Hutchison
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Congratulations! Dr. Ring with top honors graduates and award recipients Harper Behnke, Elle Wilkinson, Anna Pollan, Maddie Harriman, and Mattie Ra
Top honors for the Class of 2026: Mattie Ra earned Four Years, Top Honors and Senior Year, Top Honors. Maddie Harriman earned Four Years, Second Honors and Senior Year, Second Honors. Harper Behnke earned the Edward P. Russell Award, given to a senior who, through her leadership and devotion to Hutchison’s founding ideals, brings honor to herself and the school. Elle Wilkinson received the Ideal Hutchison Girl Award, which is presented to a senior who best represents the ideal woman as described in Proverbs 31. Anna Pollan delivered a speech as the Meg Thomas Student Speaker, selected by her classmates.
Photos by Jessica Coulson
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Ellie Bailey and Janie Weeks
Molly Wondries, Maggie Miller, Anne Tyler Bartusch, and Mary Drew Beard
Elliot Perry, Morgan Perry, and Kimberly Perry
Kaki Lackie ’24 was the flower girl for commencement speaker Margaret Cates Luna ’12 when she graduated.
Anna Pollan, Meg Thomas Student Speaker
Jane Moore, Molly Keras ’30, Nellie Keras, Lauren Keras, Ben Keras, Jane Keras, Hillary Washburn, Penny Reed ’65 and Jim Keras
10 | Hutchison
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Front row: Sims Burke, Morgan Perry, Haney Harris, Nora Jacobs, Lucy Lamb, Maren Levy, Sarah Alexander, Collins Farmer, Avery Webb, Molly Browne, Lilly Hussey, Eva Lackie, Alice Fairey, and Kate Weber; back row: Caroline Gamble, Anna Chiozza, Wright Prather, Coco Conrad, and Anna Pollan
Lyn Rembert Bailey ’64 with her granddaughter, Ellie Bailey
Nora Jacobs, Eleanor Jacobs, Maren Levy, Brooke Cox, Lucy Lamb, Jennifer Lamb, Anna Chiozza, and Ashley Chiozza
Joyce Frank, Betsy Horn, Darrell Horn, Julia Horn ’38, Kennon Humphreys, and Ellen Horn Lucchesi ’14
Board of Trustees Chair Ragan Crawford Magness ’88 congratulates Maya Pentecost Hutchison | 11
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Dorothy Henderson Burke ’98, Sims Burke, Anne Fairey, Alice Fairey, Emily Robbins, and Lilly Robbins Katie Clark and Sophie Wilson
Taylor McAdams, Collins Farmer, and Sallie Kate Hall
Samantha Ring, Melinda Moses, Mattie Ra, Elizabeth Adams, and Ellie Gooch
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Mia Ralph, Harper Behnke, Sammye Kate Selecman, Neely Raby, Betsy Halliday, and Maddie Harriman
Kathleen Behnke, Harper Behnke, Sarah Beth Cunningham, Amanda Cunningham, Sammye Kate Selecman, and Audrey Selecman
Amy Rolfes Poag ’92, Alexandra Poag ’29, Charlotte Poag, Celia Poag, and Josh Poag
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Brinkley Raby ’17, Neely Raby, and Genevieve Raby ’19
Dennis Ring, Samantha Ring, Dr. Kristen Ring, and Colby Ring
Ally Brignole, Reese Brignole ’30, Mallory Harris ’30, and Haney Harris
Commencement speaker Margaret Cates Luna ’12
Erik Henneghan, Amanda Henneghan, Dr. Brenda P. Morris, Dr. Kristen Ring, Herman Morris, Jr., Baili Price, Geoffrey Morris, Lori Miller-Price, Kimberly Morris, Carol Miller 14 | Hutchison
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Iris Bird, Taylor McAdams, Nellie Keras, Hannah Roark, Elle Wilkinson, Scottie Arnold, and Harper Behnke
Bess Geary ’37 and Lilly Hussey
Nora Jacobs with flower girl Hazel Collier ’37 Hutchison | 15
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Seniors w QR codes FromSpeak Passion to Purpose: Creativity,
Leadership, and Service in Action
Through mentorship, creative storytelling, and fostering intergenerational friendships, three of our newest alumnae, members of the Class of 2026, turned their individual talents into lasting bridges across the Memphis community. Scan the QR code to watch a short video about each student’s experience. HARPER BEHNKE ’26 made connection the heart of the Rogers Scholars experience in the Institute for Responsible Citizenship. Behnke led upper school girls as they spent time with women entrepreneurs in the Memphis community, visiting small businesses—including some owned by Hutchison alumnae—and heard firsthand stories of leadership, risk-taking, and resilience. Those lessons came full circle as our scholars partnered with our fourth grade girls on their Strong Women presentations, guiding them through research, helping shape their ideas, and encouraging them to find their voices.
BETSY HALLIDAY ’26 wanted to document the places that caught her eye when looking out the car window. With local artist Christopher Miner as her mentor, Betsy created a book of photographs for her myExperience capstone project. The 47 scenes in the book focus on quiet, unusual, and overlooked locations, such as an abandoned building with peeling paint, a church on a hill, or a lone umbrella and a textbook left beneath a bridge. Her project received an Institute for Responsible Citizenship award of distinction and was featured in the “For Memphis” newsletter, a weekly publication sent by Duncan Williams, Chairman of the Greater Memphis Chamber Board of Directors.
For four years, SAMANTHA RING ’26 delivered flowers to alumnae and friends of Hutchison at Trezevant Manor, a retirement community. She offered more than a gift; she offered her presence. Through curiosity, conversation, listening, and consistency, she formed genuine relationships that brought joy to others. Along the way, she gained confidence and a deeper understanding of community. Hutchison Serves will continue Samantha’s legacy, with members of the the middle school Bee-longing Committee writing cards, and upper school girls delivering flowers and spending time with residents.
16 | Hutchison
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paving the way Ella Woodmansee ’23, Caroline Farmer ’24, Sarah Davis McAllister ’23, Anna-Margaret Webber ’23, Claiborne Collier ’23, Ana Hunter ’23, J’oules Williams ’24
Lifting as They Climb: Scan the QR code to watch the video and hear what our alumnae have to say.
How Our Young Alumnae Are Paving the Way for Hutchison Students Transitioning to college brings exciting milestones, but the strength of the Hutchison network ensures no senior walks into her next chapter alone. A group of young alumnae returned to Hutchison to speak candidly with seniors about independence, navigating campus life, and leaning on the confidence built at their alma mater. Director of Alumnae Strategy Caroline Schaefer ’08 organized the panel as part of an ongoing effort to connect students and alumnae in meaningful ways. The Class of 2026 was grateful for the candid, relatable advice and the opportunity to hear from women who had recently been in their shoes. We’re grateful to these alumnae for exemplifying what it looks like to carry Hutchison with you wherever you go.
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F I N E A R T S | T H E AT R E
Huuttcchhiissoonn 1188 | H
Photos by Melanie Melugin
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Play by Robert Harling THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A STORY that makes you laugh and cry in the same moment, and our upper school production of Steel Magnolias did just that. The action is set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. It’s a heartwarming story of friendship, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds between women and the incredible strength found in community. This production was unique because the audience joined the cast on the Wiener Theater stage, giving them a sense that they were inside the beauty shop with the cast. It created a powerful and immersive experience as well as a unique opportunity for our girls to perform in close proximity to the audience. The cast was composed of six Hutchison students who portrayed the inseparable friends who prove that sisterhood is the ultimate survival tool. In addition, six student designers were in charge of technical elements for the show, from lighting to costumes to props. The production wouldn’t have been possible without their creativity, leadership, and diligence. Congratulations to the students, faculty, and staff who were involved in this production!
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F I N E A R T S | T H E AT R E
Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe The
20 0 || H Hu u tt c ch h ii ss o on n 2
Photos by Melanie Melugin
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Dramatized by Joseph Robinette THE WARDROBE OPENED, AND NARNIA APPEARED on the Wiener Theater stage! Our middle school girls did an incredible job bringing The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to audiences with creativity, imagination, and heart. From exciting fight choreography featuring swords, staffs, daggers, and more to the timeless story of Aslan and the triumph of good over evil, this dramatization of C.S. Lewis’ classic work was both entertaining and inspiring. Thirty-seven students were featured in the cast and one student acted as stage manager. In addition, alumna Emma Day ’21 returned to teach the fine art of stilt walking. As director Jay Rapp noted in the show’s playbill: “Like the Pevensie children, these students are exploring a world that can feel uncertain and ever-changing—discovering who they are, learning to trust one another, and finding the courage to be brave when it matters most. Middle school can feel a lot like Narnia: full of mystery, challenge, and wonder, where every day brings the chance to grow into something stronger than you imagined.” Congratulations to all the students, faculty, and staff involved in this magical show! Scan the QR code to watch a brief reel about how meaningful it was for Caroline Campbell ’30 to take on the role of the great lion, Aslan. Hutchison | 21
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THEN AND NOW | FROM THE CLASS OF 2026
How a JK Heart Dissection Inspired Healthcare Careers The surgical gloves are too big, the forceps are hard to grasp, and oh, that first whiff of formaldehyde! For four- and five-year-olds, dissecting a sheep’s heart is memorable for many reasons. In some girls, it also ignites a love of science that transcends minor inconveniences and opens the door to a lifelong exploration of how things work and why. Eight members of the Class 2026, who are planning careers in healthcare, got the chance to see a video of their younger selves performing the dissection in 2013. It surprised them and showed them how far they’ve come.
“The access I’ve been given to
outstanding teachers and courses has shaped me and encouraged me to follow my dreams.” —Elle Wilkinson ’26
Above: Elle Wilkinson; right, Zoe Evans, Kate Weber, and Elle Wilkinson in the design lab in lower school
22 | Hutchison
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Left: Mattie Ra works on a project in the lower school science lab. In upper school, she researched and developed a low-cost bionic foot for her myExperience capstone project.
“Hutchison taught me to go “It’s crazy that we did something like that and now I want to pursue healthcare in college,” said Elle Wilkinson, an aspiring nurse. “The teachers at Hutchison helped me realize that science is something I’m good at and am interested in.” “Planting those seeds early is important,” said Dr. Kristen Ring, head of school. “Our teachers know how to stretch students
beyond limits … to not only know them but also push past. I learned to always go beyond and question everything.” —Mattie Ra ’26
intellectually based on their interests and capabilities. We are always looking ahead, creating opportunities for girls to envision their full potential and learn who they want to become.” In addition to nursing, these classmates are looking to pursue medicine, neuroscience, biomechanical engineering, and pharmacology. The girls enjoyed seeing their younger selves, and they recognized a younger Dr. Matt Braby, who performed the dissection in 2013 and has since taught members of that class chemistry, anatomy, physics, and computer science. A lot has changed since then, but Braby and his colleagues still look to instill curiosity and resilience. “Curiosity is the core of science. Students learn to ask questions and seek answers. Even when they come to a spot where they don’t know what to do, they learn not to stop or give up,” said Braby. “They find a different route or way of thinking to solve the problem. They learn to seek out different avenues for support.” Elizabeth Jordan, director of early childhood, said the popular heart study science unit is a great introduction to foundational scientific questioning,
Above: Janie Weeks and Kennon Humphreys work in the lower school science lab. “The older you get, the more choices you have to build your schedule around things that interest you,” Weeks said. “Being able to have all these opportunities helps us figure out what we’re truly passionate about.”
reasoning, and learning. Hutchison | 23
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All of the science teachers encourage that spirit and curiosity in “our students and hope that they will keep that going forward.” —Dr. Matt Braby FROM ECOSYSTEM SIMULATIONS TO MUMMIFIED HOT DOGS
saw how interested I was,” she said. “I was the kid who was
Beyond early childhood, the recent graduates say their
too nervous to ask questions.
love of science was shaped by experiences in lower, middle,
She noticed that and brought
and upper school.
those questions out of me,
Janie Weeks and Mattie Ra recalled lessons and projects
even though I was super shy.
from earth science with Donna Budynas in sixth grade: an
She even gave me one of her
ecosystem simulation, a rock study, and mummified hot
textbooks and said, ‘Hey, I
dogs. “Hutchison teachers encourage you to get involved in
noticed that you’re interested
subjects and lab experiments,” Weeks said. “It pushes you to
in this. Here’s a book, and we
ask more questions about the why and how. It lets you reflect
can discuss it.’ ”
and see how things work in the real world.”
Inspired by a conversation
Ra said Budynas helped her embrace her curiosity and be
with upper school science
more confident in herself. “We were studying rocks, and she
teacher Robert Lofton, Ra Above right: Hannah Roark experimenting in JK; during her sophomore year, her chemistry class sparked her interest in pharmacology.
Scan the QR code to watch how these recent alums grew up at Hutchison—learning, exploring, and discovering their interests. Seeing their younger selves on screen reminded them just how early their love of science began and how far they’ve come.
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Each girl had her own experience, but they share a common thread: Hutchison’s supportive school environment made an impact on their lives. In upper school, Haney Harris took AP Environmental Science and chemistry, as well as AP Biology and anatomy. She isn’t sure what kind of doctor she wants to be, but she’s interested in fertility and urology. Below: Haney with a project in middle school.
developed a bionic foot for her myExperience capstone project. Her proposed design would restore natural ankle motion, enhance mobility, and provide a durable, versatile prosthetic solution suitable for both daily activities and athletic use. “We had a discussion about diabetes and how it causes most non-traumatic amputations,” said Ra. “I focused on the process between reading the brain signals and translating them into code, movement, and machine parts. A regular bionic foot costs around $70,000. I managed to lower that cost to around $10,000.” For Hannah Roark, it was chemistry during her sophomore year that sparked her interest in pharmacology. “When we did titrations with colors and chemical reactions, learning about how molecules interact with each other pushed me toward chemistry, even though I love biology and anatomy. Pharmacology is very personalized, and there are many innovative aspects. There is always an opportunity to learn or do something new,” she said. One never knows what experience or teacher will inspire change in a young girl. The opportunities are limitless. “It’s been exciting to see them grow,” said Braby.
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A L U M N A P R O F I L E | A N N I E TAU E R C H R I S TO F F ’ 9 6
finding a true calling A NONLINEAR PATH TO A DREAM JOB:
by Max Maddock
Annie Tauer Christoff ’96 never had any inclination that she would one day be a magistrate judge. She didn’t know any lawyers growing up or much about the practice of law. While presiding over a federal courtroom carries immense
I stress that my path was not linear, and I did not know what
weight, Annie describes herself as “warm and friendly to a
I wanted to do when I graduated from Hutchison, college, or
fault. People who don’t know me are typically surprised when
when I was teaching at Hutchison. I went through all these
they find out what I do for a living!”
different stops and starts trying different things before I got
As an undergraduate at Tulane University, Christoff gravitated toward economics before switching to a pre-med
to law school and immediately knew this is what I’m supposed to be doing.”
track. After college, as she was applying to medical school,
The logic-based approach of the law, she explained, was
she discovered through Vicki Fisher, her eighth-grade algebra
what appealed to her. “Getting back into the languages part
teacher, that Hutchison was looking for a chemistry teacher.
of my brain was ultimately more of a natural fit for me.”
Having recently completed chemistry classes in her pre-med track, she was a perfect fit. She ended up teaching chemistry and algebra at Hutchison for four years.
BUILDING A SOLID BASE IN LAW Even though she worked for a judge, Christoff still had
After being accepted to medical school, Christoff was
no idea that she would become a judge. Instead, after a year
about to make the move but she had a gut reaction that it
clerking for Judge McCalla, she started a job at the Memphis
wasn’t the right next step. Meanwhile, her brother, her fiancé,
law firm Bass, Berry & Sims.
and her best friend from Hutchison had all graduated from
“I had been learning about how to practice law from a
law school, and they all told her the same thing: she might
judge’s perspective,” Christoff said, “but you can’t truly learn
really enjoy a career in law.
how to be a lawyer unless you are practicing, have clients, and
She was accepted to Georgetown Law School just as
have people depending on you. I was able to learn from some
her husband, Mike, was offered his dream job in Memphis.
of the best lawyers in the city, and then ultimately became a
Nevertheless, they moved to Washington, D.C., for three years.
partner in the firm.” She worked at the firm for 10 years.
When she graduated, they were eager to move back to
Her practice was almost exclusively business litigation. At
Memphis. Her husband returned to his dream job, while Annie
one point, she had the opportunity to work on the defense
started clerking for Judge Jon McCalla of the United States
team for a white-collar criminal case. The trial took place in
District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, a dream job
Chattanooga over three months. The other members of her
of her own. She considers McCalla her most significant mentor.
defense team were former federal prosecutors, and she also
“It’s a great opportunity for that first year out of law school. You get to learn how the courthouse works, learn
observed the prosecutors on the opposing team. “I was enamored with this idea of being a federal
how cases progress. It’s an excellent education in writing and
prosecutor,” Christoff remembered. “I heard stories from
courtroom presentation style,” Christoff explained.
my colleagues and was able to watch them every day in the
Christoff often meets with Hutchison students and shares her circuitous journey with them. “When I’m talking with girls, Jessica Coulson Photography
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the U.S. Attorney’s Office and
in Memphis and one in
described the criminal trial
Jackson. For Christoff, that’s
she had just been a part of
why becoming a judge
and how much she enjoyed
“wasn’t a goal, it was a dream.
it. To her surprise, she was
While I always thought, ‘Oh, I
offered a job. It’s not unusual
would love to be a judge,’ you
for a federal prosecutor to
never know if the opportunity
eventually take a job at a law
is going to come up at the
firm, but moving from a law
right point in your career.”
firm to a job as a prosecutor
While district judges are
is less common.
nominated by the President
She started prosecuting
and confirmed by a majority
white-collar crimes.
vote in the U.S. Senate,
Eventually, she was involved
magistrate judges are filtered
in a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) case against a gang
The Honorable Annie Christoff in court with her law clerks, Jacob Dickerson and Haylie Lovelace. Christoff credits them with keeping her on schedule and up to date on cases.
in Memphis that dealt with
through a merit selection committee composed of local lawyers and lay people who interview candidates and
violent crimes and drug distribution. After that, she became
make an initial cut. Eventually, a small number of candidates
a gang prosecutor exclusively. “That’s when my parents got a
are invited to be interviewed by the district judges.
little worried,” she admitted.
Christoff remembered being ushered into a room with a
“My favorite parts about practicing law are research,
long conference table where she faced 10 judges. She said
writing, and being in the courtroom. As a federal prosecutor,
she wasn’t particularly nervous. “These are the judges whose
that’s almost exclusively what you’re doing.”
courtrooms I had been in multiple times a week.”
Christoff worked as a prosecutor for a year and a half and
Christoff made the final cut and was appointed a
admitted she might have stayed in the prosecutor’s office for
Magistrate Judge for the Western District of Tennessee’s
the rest of her career. However, she was presented with an
U.S. District Court in July 2020, just as the pandemic was
opportunity she could not pass up.
unfolding.
NOT A GOAL, BUT A DREAM
BALANCING LAW AND EMPATHY
In the fall of 2019, Christoff learned that one of the U.S.
There are many types of judges, but the work of a
Magistrate Judges for Western Tennessee, Diane K. Vescovo,
magistrate judge is not as well-known as some others. A
was going to retire. She had served in the role for 25 years.
magistrate judge assists district judges with federal cases
“District judges keep their jobs for life. Magistrate
by handling preliminary criminal proceedings, including
judges have eight-year appointments, but judges are often
arraignments, bond hearings, and grand jury reports. They
reappointed, so they may hold that position for the rest of
also conduct pretrial matters and evidentiary proceedings
their career,” Christoff explained. “The openings are few and
referred by the district judges. Magistrate judges can try
far between.”
misdemeanor cases, and when civil litigants consent, a
In Western Tennessee, there are three magistrate judges
magistrate judge may try a civil case, too. In Judge Christoff’s
had some tough decisions to make between what felt ‘responsible’ “ Iand what I thought would make me happy. I ultimately chose happiness …”
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court, cases are almost equally split between civil and criminal matters. As she experienced in her days as a prosecutor, Judge Christoff has enjoyed being in the courtroom, only this time, she’s in charge. While much of the time in the courtroom involves preliminary conferences and hearings, they eventually lead to trials. “Trials are the big show,” she said with enthusiasm. “You have the jury come in, and everything’s very formal. You’re making evidentiary rulings on the fly. People try to admit evidence, or someone’s testifying and there’s an objection to testimony that they present. I have to make those decisions on the spot. Trials are very unpredictable. It’s high pressure and intense, but exciting. “I’m most engaged when I’m out on the bench and there’s a slight amount of chaos going on. We’re hearing witnesses and arguments from lawyers, and everybody’s on top of their game. Sometimes there’s an interesting legal issue that has no precedent, so we’re going to have to really dig in and figure something out.” Christoff credits her two law clerks for keeping her on schedule and for helping do the initial research and writing about cases, which she then reviews and edits. She also acknowledges how important her time clerking for Judge McCalla was in her first year out of law school. “I run my chambers the way he ran his, for the most part. He set the tone for my whole career. That involves excessive preparation, working hard, coming in early, staying late, and having the strongest, unassailable ethics.” There are difficult parts to being a judge. “You see people at their worst or at the most challenging time of their lives, and you know that if they had made a better decision, their lives would be completely different,” she said. “Many of the people who come through the criminal justice system have substance abuse issues or mental health issues, and the system is not always best equipped to deal with those. That’s challenging and heartbreaking. “My job as a judge is always to faithfully apply the law to the facts of the case, and so I am restrained in what I can do. There have absolutely been times where I’ve been faced with a challenging decision, and I always remind myself in those situations to just go back to the language of the statute and see what it says. There will always be guidance there.” Jessica Coulson Photography
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reality is that perfection is unattainable, but also that failure can be “ The just as rewarding as success. It’s okay not to have all the answers.” There is a balance to maintain, she said. “There is always
is so rewarding, and I have a vested interest: the higher the
room for empathy. To me, what empathy really means
quality of lawyers we have in Memphis, the better our legal
is understanding how someone got to this point, what
system operates,” she explained. “I love helping young people
motivated their decision-making. The legal standards I apply
discover their interests and find their place.”
have room for that analysis. Ultimately my job is to make
She believes that meeting and talking with Hutchison
hard decisions, even if they cause others sadness or pain. The
students is vital. “It’s all about exposure,” she said. “First, in
hope, of course, is always for rehabilitation, that the person
learning about the kinds of careers many girls would never
will come out the other side in a better place.” Christoff knows that her career path hasn’t been conventional. “I had some tough decisions to make between what felt ‘responsible’ and what I thought would make me happy,” she said. “I ultimately chose happiness, and I’m so glad I did. There have been a lot of sacrifices, but I made the right choices.”
HELPING STUDENTS FIND THEIR PLACE After serving as a magistrate judge for six years and previously working as a lawyer and prosecutor, Judge Christoff knows the importance of guiding those just starting out in the law profession. “So much of the practice of law is not written in a book. It’s the things that you learn by doing, by watching other
The Honorable Annie Tauer Christoff ’96 met with Hutchison students in her courtroom to share her experiences in the legal profession during career exploration day.
people, by having the conversation back at the office after you finish up at the courthouse,” Christoff
even consider; and second, in learning that success can come
said. “I benefited from much of that valuable teaching and
in many different forms. I hope to show them that having
knowledge when I was at my firm and when I clerked, and
confidence in your own distinct talents will lead to good, if
anything I can do to help others get that same experience,
unexpected, things.”
I am interested in doing.”
Christoff acknowledges that much of what she’s been
Judge Christoff also serves as an adjunct professor at
able to do is because of the excellent education she received
the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of
at Hutchison. “Hutchison instilled confidence in me,” she said.
Memphis, teaching a class on Federal Courts.
“My teachers knew my flaws and assets. My education was
“I love getting to stay in touch with law students and see
very individually directed. I think every teacher at Hutchison
what they’re doing in their careers,” she said. “The teaching
knows what is needed to motivate each girl and when to
that I do now all started with my teachers at Hutchison and
challenge and support them.”
also the mentoring I received while teaching there. “Being able to recognize talent and create opportunities
She recalled a particular moment in an English class with teacher Pat Newberry [Kelly]. “We were studying poetry, and
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Christoff visited the Hutchison campus to talk to students during a lunch and learn. “The education you’re getting here is the best education you could possibly get in the world. I absolutely believe that you are going to have a leg up on anybody that you go to college with,” she said.
we read a William Blake poem. She could tell that I was
“I know that some students experience a lot of pressure,
interested in this particular poem. She took me aside and
and I remember feeling the weight of expectations and
said, ‘When you find an author you like, read every single
the idea that anything short of perfection is disregarded,”
thing they’ve ever written.’ To other people that might be
Christoff reflected. “The reality is that perfection is
overwhelming or a ridiculous suggestion, but for me, it was
unattainable, but also that failure can be just as rewarding
a challenge.”
as success. It’s okay not to have all the answers.
That kind of personalized encouragement helped instill
“I make mistakes and learn new things all the time,”
the confidence Christoff carried through every dramatic
she added. “I think getting comfortable with that is part
career leap. Today, when she speaks with Hutchison
of what made me a good lawyer and now a good judge.
students, she seeks to pay that mentorship forward,
Humility creates opportunities for growth, whereas hubris
offering the same empowering push, tempered with a dose
stymies it.”
of realistic wisdom.
I’m talking with the girls, I stress that my path was not linear … “ When I went through all these different stops and starts … before I got to law school and immediately knew this is what I’m supposed to be doing.” Hutchison
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Thank You to Our Parent Ambassadors Members of the Parent Ambassador Committee (PAC) play a vital role in strengthening our community and driving support for the Hutchison Fund. As the school year began, we gathered at the home of our Head of School to kick off the new year, celebrate these dedicated parent leaders, and show our deep gratitude for their commitment to advancing Hutchison.
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5 1. Hutchison Fund Chairs: Ashley and William Martin, Audsley Dunavant ’08 and Tucker Carr, Rebecca and Ed Nenon, and Jamie and Ashley Bryce Riney ’02 2. Conlee Adams ’06 and Alex Stringfellow | 3. Jaime and Joe Brandon | 4. Lon and Ragan Crawford Magness ’88, Board of Trustees Chair | 5. Jamie Riney, Ashley Bryce Riney ’02, Hutchison Fund Chairs, Jay and Jennifer Campbell, Lauren and Scott Douglass 32 | Hutchison
Photos by Jessica Coulson
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Thank you! 8
1. Dennis Ring, Amanda Eckels Goetze ’94, Sean Bowie, Matt and Laura Beth Gabriel, Ashlee and Bart Reid | 2. Maggie and Andrew Phillips 3. Catherine Norton ’11 and Nathan Simpson | 4. Ned and Hallie Biggs 5. Jennifer and Jay Campbell | 6. Tara Hallie and William Ware | 7. Sam and Brittney Haynie | 8. Chrissie Centko Tashie ’96, Emily Bryce Bowie ’00, Dr. Kristen Ring, Emily Kamm Hutchison | 33
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Thank you!
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1. Liza and Jack Wohrman | 2. Catherine Chubb, Ragan Crawford Magness ’88, Jennifer Anton | 3. Nick Goetze, Amanda Eckels Goetze ’94, Emily Bryce Bowie ’00, Sean Bowie | 4. Rebecca and Ed Nenon | 5. Bryan and Kim Jordan, Dr. Kristen Ring, Dennis Ring | 6. Tucker Carr and Audsley Dunavant Carr ’08 speak to PAC members at the party.
3 4 | H u t c h i s o n Photos by Jessica Coulson
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Think Boldly. Lead Confidently. Shape Her Future. Your Hutchison Fund gift helps make it happen.
SCAN TO GIVE YOUR GIFT THAT MATTERS.
AT HUTCHISON, girls are encouraged to ask BIG questions, pursue what inspires them, and imagine a life without limitations. The Hutchison Fund provides support for the people, programs, and experiences that help make that happen—every day, for every girl. Questions? Contact Ariel O’Brien | (901) 432-6646 | aobrien@hutchisonschool.org
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A L U M N A P R O F I L E | M E R E D I T H F R A N K L I N K E ATO N ’ 0 8
from MODEL UN to CITY HALL:
Living a Life of Service, Leadership, and Civic Action by Danielle Katz
Figuring out the best way to make change happen on a legislative level requires critical thinking and strong attention to detail. “If you’re going to change a governing document for a whole city, it has to be right. It has to be well thought out,” said Meredith Franklin Keaton ’08. As Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for the Memphis City Council, Keaton lives a life of purpose. A former Hutchison Model UN and Youth Legislature participant, she is now making positive change happen in Memphis. She said she relies heavily on the critical thinking skills and resilience she learned at Hutchison. “Hutchison builds that confidence in knowing that you can do hard things,” she said. “You learn to accept when maybe things don’t go how you would like them to go. You pick yourself up and try again, and there are people there who can help you try again.” Assigned to Memphis council member JB Smiley Jr., as well as several committees, Keaton has drafted legislation on many types of issues including plans to revive the Mud Island Amphitheater, recent revisions to the City of Memphis mayoral requirements, and the creation of the Memphis Academy of Civic Engagement. “It’s exciting to see a tangible difference in the city I love, where I grew up,” she said. “The work we’re doing translates into programs and improvements to facilities around the city. You see how the work that you’re doing
“It’s my belief
that we’re all here to help each other along the way in some form or fashion. Whether it’s professionally... or through volunteering ...”
to draft these budgeting documents,
You’re there to listen,” she said. “As I’m thinking through any policy issue, I’m considering how it’s going to affect people and what perspectives I might be missing or blind spots I may have.”
Ready for a New Opportunity Although her career as a youth mental health counselor satisfied her desire to help people, Keaton realized she wanted to change course and have a more direct impact on the city. In 2019, she learned about a master’s degree program in city and regional planning at The University of Memphis. Taking a leap, Meredith
resolutions, and ordinances goes into practice or goes on the ballot
reassessed her interests and knew that at her core, she loved to
for people to vote on. It affects the citizens of Memphis.”
learn and enjoyed research.
Prior to her career with the Memphis City Council, Keaton
She encountered challenges, though. During the first semester
was a counselor at Youth Villages. As she works on a variety of
of her master’s program, Keaton was at a book club at the home
city issues and topics, she said her counseling background plays
of Hutchison classmate Farley Howe Ezekiel ’08 when they heard a
a role, helping her think from a wider perspective and serve her
loud noise outside. Keaton’s car had been hit and pushed up onto
community as an active listener.
the curb by a drunk driver. She had to pause her studies to save
“As a counselor, you learn a lot about not projecting your
money to purchase another car. Although this temporarily derailed
personal views onto your client or whomever you’re working with.
her plans, she didn’t give up. She persisted and credits Hutchison
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for teaching her about resilience and industriousness. She eventually returned to school and graduated with her degree in December 2024.
“Being industrious and being
resilient go hand in hand— it rewards people who keep going, people who ask questions, try again, and aren’t afraid of effort. You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to keep going.”
— Meredith Keaton, Speaking in February 2026 to Hutchison students during Black History Month
Above: Emily Howe Gianis ’09, Meredith Franklin Keaton ’08, and Farley Howe Ezekiel ’08. Right: Ezekiel and Keaton at Youth Legislature in Nashville
A Foundation of Servant Leadership Keaton attended Hutchison from early childhood through graduation. She credits Hutchison with shaping her spirit to serve by providing opportunities to get out into the community and see the difference one could make. She fondly remembers the Great Penny Hunt for MIFA when she was in early childhood, Christmas parties with Perea Preschool students, and being part of the middle school community service committee. Summers were spent volunteering at Saint Francis Hospital. She was inducted into Hutchison’s Ascensus Society, which requires 125 service hours, in 9th grade, well before most students complete that number of hours. Keaton’s mentors in Hutchison classrooms also made an impact, including Nina Haley, Carole Hooper, Deedee Perel, Pat Newberry Kelly, Mary Lee Wesberry, and Hadley Hury. These and other faculty members instilled in her an excitement for learning. The social science classes in particular piqued her interest, leading her to the work she does today to improve Memphis. Her passion for service continued throughout her undergraduate years at Saint Louis University. A current member of the Junior League of Memphis and Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, she continues her service by packing backpacks with food for families in need and by volunteering at Sweet Cheeks Diaper Ministry. “It’s my belief we’re all here to help each other along the way in some form or fashion,” she said. “Whether it’s professionally, perhaps by mentoring a younger employee, or whether it’s through volunteering, such as serving children and families by helping them to build the skills and confidence they need to move forward. With my work with the City of Memphis and the city council, I’m able to do what I can to help make Memphis as good as it can be for every single person who calls it home.”
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“I can’t overstate how
much Hutchison gave to me. It set up an amazing trajectory for my life.” With members of Hutchison’s Dance Team: Alessandra Corona Belmonte ’09, Leah Singh ’07, Paige Phillips Gillespie ’07, Angela Chen Jarvis ’08, and Keaton
Stepping Out of Her Comfort Zone—Literally Almost 10 years after graduation, with her Hutchison teachers’ encouragement to step out of her comfort zone still fresh in her mind, Keaton put on dancing shoes! A dancer from the time she was little and throughout high school, she had not performed for 10 years when she saw an audition notice for the Hot Foot Honeys
Keaton with Sara and Leonard Frey after the Cum Laude Society induction
on social media in 2017. She has been a member of the group since, performing in numerous shows and even choreographing several numbers. “It was intimidating at first, but then I realized, ‘What is there to lose?’ That’s what I loved about Hutchison. You could just try things. You could join a club, you could learn, and everyone there was learning with you. I’ve carried that philosophy with me.” As Keaton moves forward in her career, she wants to continue to serve Memphis, whether it is through community service, board service, or other opportunities that may arise. Looking back, Keaton sees Hutchison as the place that gave her the confidence to keep learning, embrace new opportunities, and trust that changing direction would lead to something greater. “I can’t overstate how much Hutchison gave to me. It set up an amazing trajectory for my life,” she said. “You can chart your own course, and you can change it. It will all work out. It might not work out how you thought at first, but you will still be able to make a difference, try new things, learn, meet new people, and help others. You might just do it in a different way than you originally thought.”
Competing with Hutchison’s Knowledge Bowl team: Keaton, Emily Woodbury ’08, Brittany Trimble Camp ’08, Amanda Noa ’08, and Jessie Brown-Clark ’09 Hutchison | 39
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Mahjong at Hutchison Our community mahjong gathering was an absolute hit, filled with strategy, laughter, and lively competition! We extend a heartfelt thank you to all the fantastic players, dedicated volunteers, and generous door prize sponsors who made this day so special. Justine Klinke, Jessica Jordan Carlisle ’03, Jennifer Campbell, Eraina Schauss, Caitlyn Moore, Martha Campbell Robertson ’05
Audsley Dunavant Carr ’08, Liza Wohrman, Stewart Taylor Hunt ’06, Tara Hallie Ware
Caroline Capstick Sones ’02, Marjorie Porter, Ashley Bryce Riney ’02, Jaime Brandon
Lauren Douglass, Ruthie Hagan, Locke Waldrop, Sarah Pietrangelo
Elizabeth Duck Kennedy ’06, Allison Bravo, Gail Glassell, Robin Morehead Taylor ’01
Catherine Pitts Erb ’88, Meredith Beaty Roper ’05, Allyse Holcomb, Brittney Haynie
Brooke Clement, Bailey Mueller Salmon ’07, Ragan Mueller Washburn ’05, Hattie Rounder
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Claire Tenent Murk ’10, Codie Harper Perzdock ’14, Ellen Horn Lucchesi ’14, Parker Tenent Francis ’14
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JJ Keras, Margaret Eldridge, Leslie Barrett, Sara Barrett
Sophie Jones Cunningham ’06, Lisa Berryhill, Helen Morrison Guyton ’05, Natalie Meagle
Emily Bryce Bowie ’00, Kathryn Drinkard Howell ’00, Peria Gober Williams ’00
Marti McFarland Mashburn ’96, Whitney Luckett Trimble ’96, Susannah Herring ’96, Maggie Phillips
Lauren Hill, Emily Kamm, Lana Holmes, Anne Fairey
Laura Beth Gabriel, Sarah Wright, Brittany Cobb, Jess Roberson
Melissa Baker, Mary Anne Stephenson, Katy O’Connor, Kendall Jordan Freed ’11
Katherine Flinn, Natalie McClure, Sarah Murphy, Mary Alice West
Kristina Jennings ’11, Elizabeth Carr Rudolph ’11, Weezie Steffner Pouget ’11, Libby Moak ’21
Shibahn Singh Rodda ’02, Alysa Johnston, Catherine Talbot Lackie ’00, Lauren Daniel Carr ’00
Meatha Tapley, Jennifer Hobson, Jacqueline Romo, Visse Wedell ’92
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ALUMNAE WEEKEND 202 6
Award Honorees
Dr. Kristen Ring with Cara Baskin Grinder ’96 and Dr. Kelly Rodney Arnold ’96
Distinguished Alumna Award The Distinguished Alumna Award recognizes and celebrates alumnae who are making a difference in the world through exceptional professional achievement and selfless and visionary service. Dr. Kelly Rodney Arnold ’96 is our 2026 Distinguished Alumna, a truly fitting recognition of Kelly’s remarkable contributions and career in the medical field. Since founding Clínica Médicos in 2015, Kelly has turned a bilingual medical clinic into a lifeline for Chattanooga’s underserved Latino community, providing comprehensive care seven days a week to those who need it most. In 2021, she founded the Médicos Mission Fund, which supports the work of Clínica Médicos and provides nearly $3 million in care annually, ensuring that equitable healthcare is a reality. The clinic expanded in 2025 and now includes a behavioral health facility in addition to pediatric dentistry. Kelly is also a leader in medical education. As an Associate Professor at UT College of Medicine/ Erlanger, and through the Clínica Médicos fellowship program, she is training the next generation of doctors, empowering them to blend high-level medicine with deep community compassion. Kelly’s unwavering dedication has changed thousands of lives, and we are so proud to call her one of our own. Dr. Kelly Rodney Arnold ’96
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Alumna Service to Hutchison Award The Alumna Service to Hutchison Award reflects our school’s appreciation for exceptional and longstanding service to and advocacy for Hutchison. Cara Baskin Grinder ’96 is our Alumna Service to Hutchison Award recipient. Cara has given selflessly of her time over the years through numerous volunteer roles. Her leadership has been central to our community, from serving as co-president of the Hutchison Parents Association, where she continues to be instrumental in galvanizing our parent and school community, to supporting our faculty and staff. She and her husband, Justin—parents of Vivian ’32—also served as Hutchison Fund Chairs during the 2019-2020 school year, leading the school to a strong finish, even during the pandemic. In addition, Cara has supported our students as an alumna mentor and has served on the Parent Ambassador Committee since 2021 to support Cara Baskin Grinder ’96
the Hutchison Fund. Beyond these roles, she is a dedicated connector for the Class of 1996 and frequently volunteers behind the scenes for Hutchison theatre productions. Cara’s warmth, inclusivity, and positive attitude continue to make a difference in our community, and we are grateful for all she does.
Frances Cates ’ 21 Guiding Light Faculty Award The Frances Cates ’21 Guiding Light Faculty Award is a new tradition to honor the educators who nurture, challenge, and champion our students to become the best versions of themselves, at Hutchison and beyond. It was established through a generous gift from Allison and Andy Cates in honor of their daughter, Frances ’21. Its purpose is to celebrate faculty members who go far beyond the standard curriculum—teachers who provide the kind of guidance and mentorship beyond the classroom
Andy and Allison Cates, Virginia Baird, Mary Lee Wesberry and Dr. Jess Wesberry
that ignites a lifelong inspiration in their students. We were pleased to present the inaugural Frances Cates ’21 Guiding Light Faculty Award to two individuals who truly embody these values and have shaped the hearts and minds of generations of students, including Frances. For 36 years, Virginia Baird inspired generations of young women with a profound appreciation for the Latin language and Roman history. Studying Latin is more than just studying a language; it is an exploration of the human condition and our shared history, and Ms. Baird has imbued this value in the many students who entered her classroom over the years. Mary Lee Wesberry spent over two decades igniting a passion for discovery in leading our upper school science department. Her classroom was a place where curiosity was celebrated. She empowered our girls to think critically and conduct independent research, and she always prioritized the academic and emotional growth of the whole student. Congratulations and thank you to Ms. Baird and Mrs. Wesberry for your years of dedicated service to Hutchison and the impact you have made on our students! We will invite our alumnae community to help us keep this light shining by nominating both current and former faculty members who have impacted their own lives. Hutchison | 43
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ALUMNAE WEEKEND 2026
Coffee & Confections
Margo Raiford and Marguerite Raiford Estes ’86
Mary Aubrey Landrum Stafford ’10 and Meredith Taylor Howser ’10
Class of 1976: Susan Hatchett, Dot Jones Hammons, Cathy McClure Leslie, Mary Beth Foster Berry, Meg Bryce Robertson, Sara Smith
Class of 1996: Cara Baskin Grinder, Farrell Robb Turner, Ginger Williams Bricken, Ani Ross Grubb, Leslie Watson Bright, Kara Wetherill, Lindsay Stucker McDaniel, Kelly Rodney Arnold 44 | Hutchison
Alumnae Weekend photos by Brandon Dill and Danielle Katz
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Above: Class of 1991: Leann Eggers Linam, Laurie Lewis Shapiro, Megan Wellford Grinder, Caroline Johnson Crosby, Jenna Samelson Browning, Christy Smith Muller, Jennifer Knapp Smith Right: Class of 2006, front: Wendy Crenshaw Bolding, Elizabeth Morrow Carlisle, Blair Chilton Durst, Elizabeth Krausnick Malmo; middle: Malaney Cross George, Lucy Loveless-Wingfield, Stewart Taylor Hunt, Conlee Adams Stringfellow; back: Amy Yauger Threadgill, Shelley Grayson, Joy Thompson Morrow, Page Halle Baran
Loren McRae Lancaster ’05, Eleanore Kelly Maynard ’01
Convocation
Caroline Schaefer ’08, Director of Alumnae Strategy, lower left, spoke during Convocation, and Upper School’s Vocal Point choral group led the singing of the Alma Mater.
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ALUMNAE WEEKEND 2026
Lemonade Party
Eleanore Kelly Maynard ’01, Loren McRae Lancaster ’05, Jennings Pitts Barnes ’05
Dennis Ring and Meg Bryce Robertson ’76
Dr. Kristen Ring and Ragan Crawford Magness ’88
Dr. Kristen Ring and Debby Owen Schadt ’65
Alumnae gather for a Lemonade Party Luncheon at the Head of School’s residence.
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Class of 2011 with Sting: Sophie Davidoff, Kristina Jennings, Elizabeth Carr Rudolph, Lauren Lasseter McAllister, Sting, Cameron Cofield Reed, Staten Smith Carter, Weezie Steffner Pouget, Grace Peters
Black & Gold BBQ
Cary Coors Brown ’76, Mary Beth Foster Berry ’76, Neville Gay Williams ’76
Susan Hatchett ’76 and Sara Smith ’76
Above: Lauren Lewis Rower ’87, Louisa Koeppel, Melissa Conrad Grimes ’87, Molly Prewitt ’05 Left: Anne McGrew Conrad ’88
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ALUMNAE WEEKEND 2026
Black & Gold BBQ
Katy Collier Creech ’76, Carter Coleman ’16, Susannah Bland ’16 Right: Class of 1996, front: Angela Garretson Massengale, Lindsay Stucker McDaniel; middle: Ginger Williams Bricken, Cara Baskin Grinder, Leslie Watson Bright, Kara Wetherill, Katie McKee Williams, Frannie Pitts Hillyer; back: Farrell Robb Turner, Angela Hurley Rahe, Kelly Rodney Arnold, Ani Ross Grubb, Anna Ward, Whitney Luckett Trimble, Brooks Irvine, Marti McFarland Mashburn, Anna Burch Wunderlich
Mattie Ra ’26, Ginger Williams Bricken ’96, Alia Sims ’26, Elizabeth Adams ’26, Samantha Ring ’26
Gray Morrison Byrd ’09, Robin Marston Vaughn ’08
Class of 1991: Jenna Samelson Browning, Jennifer Knapp Smith, Sonya Brummet Pollard, Christy Smith Muller, Leann Eggers Linam, Laurie Lewis Shapiro, Tiffani Hughes Gross, Catherine Higdon, Megan Wellford Grinder
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Class of 1976: Meg Bryce Robertson, Cathy McClure Leslie, Sara Smith, Dot Jones Hammons, Mary Beth Foster Berry
Marguerite Raiford Estes ’86, Anna Baskin Lattimore ’86, Carter Bevis ’86, Betsy Bartlett Walton ’86, Nelse Blumeyer Miller ’86, Lauren Lewis Rower ’87, Melissa Conrad Grimes ’87
Class of 1996: Leslie Watson Bright, Whitney Luckett Trimble, Frannie Pitts Hillyer
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Class of 2011: Lauren Lasseter McAllister, Cameron Cofield Reed, Kristina Jennings Hutchison | 49
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ALUMNAE WEEKEND 2026
Milestone Mimosa Brunch
Madison Moore ’19, Genevieve Raby ’19 Class of 1996: Ani Ross Grubb, Angela Hurley Rahe, Anna Burch Wunderlich, Lindsay Stucker McDaniel, Kelly Rodney Arnold, Cara Baskin Grinder, Marti McFarland Mashburn, Ginger Williams Bricken, Kara Wetherill, Frannie Pitts Hillyer
Kelly Rodney Arnold ’96 accepts her Distinguished Alumna Award from Caroline Schaefer ’08, who was Arnold’s flower girl at graduation.
Brenda Chandler Cooke ’66, Anne Cunningham ’66, Chandler Cooke-Chandler
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Classmates of the Class of 1991 have a happy reunion.
Dr. Kristen Ring, head of school
Caption
Class of 1991: Jenna Samelson Browning, Laurie Lewis Shapiro, Christy Smith Muller, Jennifer Knapp Smith, Megan Wellford Grinder Class of 1976, front: Rebecca Balton Long, Martha Wiener Horton, Lisa Earp Wilder, Natalie Walker Sherman, Amie Todd Sims, Cary Coors Brown, Dot Jones Hammons; back: Katy Collier Creech, Mary Beth Foster Berry, Meg Bryce Robertson, Sara Smith, Elise Norfleet Crockett, Cathy McClure Leslie
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Milestone Mimosa Brunch
Class of 1991, front: Greer Blackwell Elkus, Lela Whittle Germann, Jenna Samelson Browning, Mary Dudley Bridgforth McLean, Paula Nolley Mitchell; middle: Caroline Johnson Crosby, Curry Hyde Rosato, Katie Eleazer, Laurie Lewis Shapiro, Christy Smith Muller; back: Leann Eggers Linam, Jennifer Knapp Smith, Megan Wellford Grinder, Eason Greene Futch
Above: Eliza Sims Douglas ’16, Amie Todd Sims ’76, Kristen Ring with baby Elissa. Above right: Sara Smith ’76, Katy Collier Creech ’76, Dot Jones Hammons ’76, and Caroline Schaefer ’08 Right: Class of 1981: Jennifer Utkov Kruchten, Jeannie Isbell Goin, Mary Taliaferro Sumner, Emily Roane Peck, Leslie Bouldin, Deborah Utkov Matthews
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Class of 2011, front: Elizabeth Carr Rudolph, Staten Smith Carter, Cameron Cofield Reed; Margo Clothier ’29 back: Weezie Steffner Pouget, Lauren Lasseter McAllister, Kristina Jennings, Grace Peters Betty Riggan Padgett ’60 and members of the Class of 1976 share photos.
Caption
Mary Aubrey Landrum Stafford ’10 speaks during Brunch.
Cara Baskin Grinder ’96 accepts her Alumna Service to Hutchison Award.
Above: Ginger McCullough Wilson ’97 with her daughter, Gigi ’33, who performed at Brunch. Hutchison | 53
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Milestone Mimosa Brunch
Class of 2006, front: Elizabeth Duck Kennedy, Joy Thompson Morrow, Connie Popwell, Sophie Jones Cunningham, Sara Jones Nunnery; back: Lucy Loveless-Wingfield, Shelley Grayson, Lauren Marchant, Jane Sayle Locke, Amy Yauger Threadgill, Stewart Taylor Hunt, Robin Gerber Collins, Conlee Adams Stringfellow, Mary Marshall Maxwell
Above: Mimi Hurley looks on at the Milestone Brunch. Above right: Kelly Rodney Arnold ’96 and Cara Baskin Grinder ’96 have fun after Brunch at the Joy Fountain in the Alumnae Courtyard Right: Susan Patton Crawford ’60, Elizabeth Patton Holmes ’54, Betty Chalmers Peyton ’54, Josephine Phillips Schaeffer ’61, Betty Riggan Padgett ’60
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Lunch and Learn with Dr. Kelly Rodney Arnold ’96 The day before Alumnae weekend, our upper school girls had the opportunity to hear from Hutchison’s Distinguished Alumna recipient, Dr. Kelly Rodney Arnold ’96, the founder and medical director of Clínica Médicos. The clinic is modeled after global mission hospitals with the goal of making quality healthcare accessible to Chattanooga’s Latino community. As several of our students are interested in careers in healthcare, they were able to ask thoughtful questions about Dr. Arnold’s journey and to see firsthand how a Hutchison education can grow into a life of purpose and impact.
Alumnae Gathering: Georgia
Clockwise from left; Elizabeth Farnsworth ’18, Griffin Gearhardt Delgado ’17, Harriet Cotten Moran ’56, Natalie Alexander ’25, Mary Beth Buchignani Wilson ’03, Mary Aubrey Landrum Stafford ’10, Darrielle Morris ’22, Sarah Wright, Virginia Apperson ’75, Norma Poindexter ’73, Lauren Reddoch ’17, Sharon Dula Minor ’83, and Molly McCullough Robida ’14
Emily Nunn ’24, Sara Byrnes ’23, Anna Catherine Brickey ’25, Emmy Yambrek ’22, Caroline Schaefer ’08, Claiborne Collier ’23, Sarah Dow McVean ’24, Parks Renovich ’23, Ella Dobbs ’24
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ALUMNAE WEEKEND FRIDAY, APRIL 23 & SATURDAY, APRIL 24 All alumnae are welcome, with a special emphasis on reunion years ending in 2 or 7. More information to come!
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Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage 1 74 0 R i d g e w a y R o a d M e m p h i s , Te n n e s s e e 3 8 1 1 9 (901) 761-2220
PAID
Memphis, TN Permit No. 750
PARENTS of ALUMNAE: If your publication is addressed to your daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumnae Office of her new mailing address at (901) 762-6664. ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL—PLEASE EXPEDITE ©Hutchison School 2026
Hutchison accepts qualified female students regardless of race, color, religion, disability, or national origin.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS TO PARTICIPATE IN SUPPORT OF HUTCHISON ATHLETICS!
TENNIS ROUND ROBIN Friday, October 23, 2026 Dunavant-Wellford Tennis Center
Register at: hutchisonschool.org/tennis-round-robin | For more information or to explore sponsorship opportunities, contact Ariel O’Brien at aobrien@hutchisonschool.org.
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