Class of 2025, p. 55
REMEMBERING ANNA CARTER | GOVERNOR GLENN YOUNGKIN DELIVERS COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS | DR JUSTIN GRIFFIN ‘98 | SUE ROYSTER PIER | NEW HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEES | CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2025 | ALUMNI REUNIONS & EVENTS | HIGHLIGHTS OF 2024 - 2025
Current faculty and staff are joined by retired staff members at the “Rodeo Roundup” Staff Appreciation event at the Virginia Zoo in May.
Brianna (Posch) Crapanzano ‘13
After serving as teacher and Dept Head for the Upper School English Dept , Brianna teaches our High School Internship class and is an Academic and Career Counselor
Randall ‘25
Sophia is an alumna of the Class of 2025 who loves theatre, track, and digital creation She is a freshman at Georgetown University, where she plans to pursue Pre-Law
Lily is Norfolk Christian’s Social Media Manager and resident photographer. She is passionate about capturing authentic moments and telling the NCS story through photos
Hutchinson NCS Mom, Beach Campus Staff
As we take a final look back at the 2024–2025 school year, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for all that God has done in and through Norfolk Christian Schools You will see in the pages of this magazine that the year has been marked by growth, renewal, and clear evidence of the Lord’s provision From record enrollment and new classroom opportunities to campus updates and even a new mascot, it has been a joyful year to be an Ambassador. More importantly, we continue to see God’s Hand at work as we pursue a mission bigger than academics - the transformation of hearts and minds for Christ.
I experienced the mission of Norfolk Christian on a deeply personal level last spring On May 31st, my daughter graduated as a member of the Class of 2025, a moment I will never forget. Just two years ago, when I accepted God’s call to serve at NCS, it meant asking her to leave behind her hometown, her friends, her school, and everything she had ever known.
To say it was difficult for her would be an understatement The transition came just before her junior year of high school She was heartbroken, hesitant, and for a while determined to find a way back to Florida.
But through it all, God was working, through the kindness of her teachers, the warmth of her classmates, and the strength she found in her faith, Kaitlyn began to flourish She made friends who became family She grew in confidence, joy, and purpose And this year, she walked across the stage not as a reluctant transplant but as a proud Norfolk Christian Ambassador, ready for the next chapter That story, her story, isn’t just about one student It’s a reflection of what happens here every day Students walk through our doors and discover not just knowledge, but identity. Not just community, but belonging. Not just a school, but a purpose
I am so grateful for the teachers and mentors who equip young people to walk by faith even when the road ahead is uncertain, to see challenges as opportunities, and surprises as invitations to trust the God who sees the end from the beginning
As Head of School, I’m proud of the progress shown in these pages But more importantly, I’m humbled to see how God continues to shape this community for His glory I want to thank you, our families, faculty, alumni, and supporters, for walking alongside us Your prayers, generosity, and commitment make this mission possible
As we look ahead to the future, may we remain faithful to the calling that unites us: to raise up Ambassadors for Christ, students who will go into the world as lights in the darkness, grounded in truth, and unshakable in faith
In Him,
Alex Gispert Head of School
Tby Madison Moreau ‘19
There are teachers who leave a mark on your memory, and then there are those who shape how you see the world Mrs Anna Carter did both For over three decades, she taught AP Chemistry, AP Biology, and Honors Chemistry at Norfolk Christian with quiet intensity and unwavering purpose Her classes were challenging and precise She asked a lot of us, not just to memorize information, but to think deeply, to persevere, and to hold our work to a higher standard Behind every hard-earned grade was a teacher who believed in her students and wanted more for them than just academic success
Mrs Carter taught with purpose and quiet humility She was steady, wise, and deeply faithful She didn’t need attention to make an impact Her presence was calm but firm Gentle, but never passive There was strength in her silence and clarity in her conviction She lived and taught with the quiet confidence of someone who knew exactly why she was doing what she was doing
What made her truly remarkable was that she never let the pressure of achievement eclipse what really mattered She still laughed with us She made space for jokes She never lost sight of the fact that we were more than students trying to pass a difficult class We were people becoming who we were meant to be, and she cared about that process deeply
Each of her assignments began with a verse that captured the heart of her classroom: “It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out ” Mrs Carter believed that science was not in conflict with faith, but one of its most beautiful expressions She taught us to study creation with reverence To ask hard questions, not in doubt, but in wonder To see knowledge not as a trophy, but as a way to know the Creator more deeply
Outside the classroom, that same sense of awe shaped her life A Cornell-trained wildlife biologist, she surrounded herself with the natural world she loved She loved to kayak, to be near water, to be still, and to pay attention to the beauty God had written into the world Her love for creation was not abstract It was lived, breathed, and quietly contagious
And when the final exams were over, she knew how to celebrate Every year, she invited her AP students to make cheese and chocolate together It was part hands-on science, part joyful tradition We laughed, learned, and rested from the intensity of the year with full hearts and messy counters It was a reminder that she didn’t just care about what we accomplished She cared about who we were, and she found delight in our joy
In every way, Mrs Carter modeled what it meant to live faithfully Her teaching was an extension of her
worship Her presence was peaceful but never passive She challenged us to be better students More than that, she challenged us to be better people Thoughtful Honest Grounded Curious Grateful
She was a gift to our school Her absence is felt deeply And yet, her influence remains in the lessons she taught, in the lives she shaped, and in the quiet way she pointed all of us back to the One Who made us
NNorfolk Christian has always been shaped by the extraordinary educators who give their hearts to students year after year Few embodied that calling more than Mrs Anna Carter, affectionately known by generations of students as “Mrs Chemistry Carter ” After her passing in early 2025, the school community continues to grieve the loss of this beloved teacher, mentor, and friend
To honor her NCS legacy, a scholarship has been established by her family in memory of the remarkable 32 years she spent in our classrooms Anna taught with precision and passion, always grounding her chemistry and biology lessons in a deep reverence for God’s creation Her students were inspired not only to learn science, but to see it as a form of worship The spirit of Proverbs 25:2 – “It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out” – echoed through her classroom and now serves as the foundation of the scholarship
Awarded annually to a rising junior or senior enrolled in AP Chemistry or AP Biology, the $2,500 scholarship will recognize academic excellence, Christian character, and a love for scientific discovery The selected scholar will embody the curiosity, attention to detail, and faithful integrity that defined Anna’s life and teaching
We are grateful to the Carter and Lass families for establishing this lasting tribute and invite others who wish to honor Mrs Carter’s memory to consider contributing to the Anna Carter Memorial Scholarship Fund Her legacy continues to shape students and glorify God, just as she did daily during her life
by Sophia Randall ‘25
The Class of 2025 made history throughout their senior year, and graduation day was no exception On that momentous morning, as we sat together on stage at Regent University, we had the unprecedented honor of hearing Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin give the charge as our keynote speaker It marks the first time Norfolk Christian has hosted a sitting Governor at a commencement ceremony in its six decades of graduating classes
Governor Youngkin began by congratulating us for our many achievements - academic,
athletic, and even the clever planning that allowed Eman to win “Senior Water Wars ” He then gave a Christcentered message that encouraged graduates to embrace our identity as Ambassadors for Christ First and foremost, he challenged us to pray; pray when we’re happy or sad, in the morning and in the evening, by ourselves and with others If we position prayer at the beginning of every endeavor, we will see God’s plan for our lives unfold His second charge was to work hard, live boldly, and fully commit to that plan, relying on the Lord for the strength only He can provide Last, he urged graduates to “come back to the place where [they] started,” both physically and spiritually The faculty, coaches, and staff at Norfolk Christian have poured into and shaped us into Ambassadors who will impact the world As we continue to grow and change, we should never forget to thank them, and always strive to play that same role in impacting the lives of others The Governor closed with a prayer over the Class of 2025, asking God to inspire, protect, and guide us as we move into this new chapter of our lives
After his message, Governor Youngkin remained on stage and congratulated each senior as we received our diplomas Henry McCallum even got the go-ahead for a once-in-a-lifetime selfie that he will never forget It was an honoring send-off for a Class who has worked and played hard, and is now ready to make their mark on the world
by Brianna Crapanzano ‘13
eing faced with surgery is unsettling, no matter the reason That’s something no one understands better than Dr Justin Griffin from the Class of 1998 As an orthopaedic surgeon with the Jordan-Young Institute, Dr Griffin has spent his career helping patients find the best path to recovery after the myriad situations that land them in his office Along with the medical interventions he provides, Justin is a true Ambassador for Christ, treating patients with a level of care that can be hard to find in the busy surgical world Though he sees up to 90 patients per week, the thing that sets him apart is the time he spends listening to their stories, understanding their goals, and putting them at ease
With the length of his resume, one might guess Justin had a well-planned career path from the beginning Interestingly, that isn’t the case “I was actually quite unsure what I wanted to do when I was in high school,” he admitted, “besides play music in various bands and enjoy my friendships ” One thing he was certain of was that he enjoyed taking care of people, so he initially planned to lean into a career in counseling After graduating from Norfolk Christian, Justin pursued his counseling degree at James Madison University He graduated from JMU with a B S in Psychology, then continued his counseling training by earning an M A in Clinical Psychology from Wheaton College
Yet even after accomplishing those two degrees, Justin wasn’t sure what career step to take next Although his desire to lend a listening ear had not changed, it had become clear he missed working with his hands and having tangible problems to solve He found himself gravitating toward medicine, especially drawn to the definitive outcomes and technical advances offered in a surgical field But he wrestled with sacrificing the patient care intrinsic to counseling Then he realized he wouldn’t have to When Justin recognized that he could join his desire to help people through empathetic listening with the technical challenges and rewards of solving problems in surgery, it changed everything And it became the niche to which he has devoted his career
In 2010, Justin added the letters M D to his name, graduating first in his class from Loyola University Chicago’s Stritch School of Medicine He then completed an orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of Virginia and chose to specialize through an additional year in fellowship in sports medicine at Rush University Medical Center Chicago There, he focused on shoulder and knee surgery with the least invasive arthroscopic
techniques Through the professional relationships he made in Chicago and his specific expertise in sports injuries, he had the privilege of serving many collegiate and professional athletes during his time in the Windy City Justin was a team doctor for the Chicago Bulls, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Fire Professional Soccer team, DePaul University, and the McDonald’s All-American games
When his fellowship in Chicago ended, Justin was delighted to return to Hampton Roads and join the surgical staff at the Jordan-Young Institute, bringing a long journey full circle He admits the road he chose wasn’t easy, but looking back, he wouldn’t change it There were many rites of passage along the way that shaped his character and grit, a fact he encourages younger doctors with even now In hindsight, he is grateful for every experience that improved the expertise he can offer patients
After more than a decade with the Jordan-Young Institute, a list of Dr Griffin’s outstanding achievements spans pages From numerous teaching awards, to being named a Castle Connolly “Top Doctor” - representing the top 1% of physicians in the country, to being one of only 700 members nationwide, and the only physician in Hampton Roads, selected to join the prestigious American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) group He has excelled in every aspect of his medical career
Dr Griffin’s commitment to teaching and mentoring, along with his leadership in the areas of research and innovation, have secured his place as a trusted expert in the field He is a frequent student lecturer and is considered a “Key Opinion Leader” among his peers in his areas of specialization, often putting him on stage in front of global physician audiences He is heavily invested in creating minimally invasive surgical techniques and holds several patents for designing new implants that will improve patient outcomes and quality of life Through JordanYoung’s research foundation, much of the high-level research Dr Griffin’s team does is published in medical journals, allowing them to pass the latest advances on to patients around the world who are struggling with knee and shoulder injuries He has published more than 100 professional articles, chapters, books, and presentations
Despite the countless accolades, Dr Griffin’s greatest passion remains providing exceptional patient care and building the patient relationships for which he is known He credits his parents for instilling that desire in him His father, a local cardiologist and thought leader, and his mother, a teacher, modeled the kind of compassion that he strives to show every patient
One person who has enjoyed a front-row seat to Dr Griffin’s compassionate style and talent for teaching is Zion Nurse, graduate of Norfolk Christian’s Class of 2018 Zion has spent the last two years as a medical assistant and scribe for his fellow NCS alumnus, and has learned more from him than he thought possible “Working with Dr Griffin has not only prepared me for the grit and commitment that is required for medical school and my further career, it has also shown me what it’s like to work in healthcare while serving God’s kingdom!”, he says Zion is currently applying to medical schools and plans to follow in his mentor’s footsteps with a career in orthopaedics
NCS senior Sofia Harris, who interned with Dr Griffin through Norfolk Christian’s Internship class in 2024, echoed Zion’s sentiments ”I was blessed with the opportunity to shadow Dr Griffin in his office and in the hospital Not only was I able to learn a great amount from him, but was also able to see how kind and compassionate he is about his patients, which is very inspiring!”
It has been a special privilege for Dr Griffin to see friends and mentors from NCS in his role as surgeon “It has been an honor to return to this community and take care of many of my former teachers, as well as current NCS athletes and families,” he says
One particular patient is always happy to share her experiences in Dr Griffin’s office - Sue Royster As someone Dr Griffin credits with sparking his love for science and discovery, he had the chance to reverse their student-teacher roles in 2021 when Sue needed knee surgery There was never any question who she would trust to do it And Dr Griffin was more than happy to make sure his mentor received the best medicine had to offer Sue will gladly tell you that she’s better today than she can remember being for many years, thanks to the young man who sat in her
Biology class almost three decades ago She beams with pride in talking about the care he provided during that difficult time “Justin has the best bedside manner of any doctor I’ve ever seen He doesn’t just listen, he really processes how you’re feeling and has an innate ability to help you understand what will make your life better ”
Sue still chuckles at his post-surgery visit, when he came into the recovery room to let her know how the surgery went “Mrs Royster,” he announced, ”you didn’t have one tear in your meniscus, you had three Don’t worry, we fixed them all ”
Justin and Carter Griffin with children Wesley, Wills, Harper, and Juliet
With his jam-packed schedule, Dr Griffin is intentional about creating space for the things that really matter - his family and service to the local and global communities In fact, he maintains that having a supportive family has been foundational to all of his successes When asked what accomplishment he holds in the highest regard, his answer is not an award or achievement, but the things he is most grateful for - his marriage of 22 years and four healthy, thriving kids
One of the Griffin family’s great joys is serving others together, something Dr Griffin and his wife Carter are committed to making a priority An organization they have held a longtime partnership with is Kerus Global Education, co-founded by NCS alumna Dr Marcia Ball from the Class of 1980 Kerus works to protect the vulnerable in the Shoshanguve community of South Africa through health education, orphan care, and human trafficking prevention, while sharing the gospel and love of Christ through their work
The Griffins recently had the privilege of spending two weeks serving in the orphan care center and traveling with Kerus in South Africa as a family, an unforgettable experience for them and those they were able to minister to The trip highlight for everyone was a spa day his children held to pamper the “grannies” at the orphanage
When Justin looks back on that high school kid who just wanted to play in a band and hang out with his friends, he’s grateful for the winding path God led him on after Norfolk Christian He’s grateful for talented colleagues along the way who were willing to collaborate and challenge him He’s especially grateful for a family who cheered him on and supported him with every new venture
As for the work that fills his days, Dr Griffin will always be thankful for the extraordinary opportunity of helping people live their lives to the fullest “It is an incredible privilege to treat patients as we do in what is often a critical or challenging moment in their lives There are very few things more unique, ever-changing, and fulfilling than a career pursuing excellence in medicine ”
26, 2025
SSummer 2025 brought the long-awaited induction of 10 new Ambassador alumni athletes and coaches into the Gary King Athletic Hall of Honor These inductions celebrate the incredible legacies of ten people who experienced extended success during their time at Norfolk Christian The Athletic Hall of Honor was established to recognize student-athletes and coaches who had outstanding achievements in sports during their time at NCS Inductees have made a significant impact on Ambassador Athletics while exemplifying our mission of being ambassadors for Christ The inaugural class, consisting of one administrator/coach and six student-athletes, was inducted in 2011 In 2016, C Bradford and Molly Hobbs honored Coach Gary King, NCS physical education teacher, athletic director, and coach from 1967–1986, by naming the Hall of Honor in commemoration of his legacy
The Class of 2025 marks the fourth class inducted into Norfolk Christian’s Hall of Honor Two of this year’s inductees represent milestones for the program: Michael Allen joined his wife Jen (Murden) Allen, 2018 inductee, as the first husband and wife members, and Ashley (Shoaf) Rusin joined her father Jeff Shoaf, 2018 inductee, as the first father-daughter members Congratulations to these outstanding Ambassadors!
Rich spent more than 3 decades in Ambassador Athletics After 20 seasons as a Head Soccer coach, he is known for back-toback TCIS Boys championships, two runner-up seasons with Varsity Girls, and two championships and an undefeated season with JJV boys Rich also spent 4 years as Athletic Director, where he spearheaded the expansion or addition of multiple athletic programs offered at NCS During that time, he was the one to propose that our physical mascot be a lion Rich devoted the last decade of his career to our lower schools, running the PE program, developing and running sports camps, and in every way h l i t d t f middle school sports
RI LANKFORD ‘90
Michael held the position of Athletic Director at Norfolk Christian for 15 years, starting in 2001 During that time, Ambassador teams captured more than 20 conference championships, 6 state championships, and 4 national championships As AD, Michael added football and lacrosse to the NCS line-up In his 12 seasons as Head Boys Basketball Coach, he turned the program into one of the most successful in Virginia, winning 2 state and 4 conference championships Michael was named TCIS Coach of the Year and Norfolk Sports Club Bob Bates Scholastic Coach of the Year in 2011 He ended his tenure as the second winningest coach in Norfolk Christian history, with 174 wins
was a three-year member of the Varsity Girls Volleyball and Basketball teams and -year member of the Varsity Softball team She served as a team captain for all three ms and received first team all-conference honors multiple times in all three sports In yball, she was a member of back-to-back conference tournament championship ms and was selected honorary captain for the conference all-tournament team during enior year In basketball, she was a member of a TCIS regular season and tournament mpionship team during her senior year, for which she was also selected to multiple allnament teams In softball, Sheri was a member of 2 TCIS tournament championship ms and was a TCIS regular season champion during her senior year
antha was a 4 sport varsity athlete in her time as an Ambassador, lettering in eyball, Basketball, Softball, and Soccer In volleyball, she was a member of backack conference tournament championship teams As a senior, she was named nd team all-conference and made the TCIS all-tournament team In basketball, antha was a member of a TCIS regular season and tournament championship m during her senior year, and she was named to both the Portsmouth Catholic etball and TCIS all-tournament teams, as well as selected as the Most Valuable er for the Portsmouth Catholic Tournament
Kristin was a member of both the Basketball and Volleyball teams during her tenure at Norfolk Christian, being named an honorable mention all-conference member and first team all-conference twice in volleyball In basketball, she was named first team all-conference twice and conference player of the year during her senior year She also made the TCIS all-tournament team twice, receiving tournament Most Valuable Player honors during her junior year, and the all-tournament team for the Portsmouth Catholic Basketball Tournament during her junior year Kristin was a team captain for TCIS regular season and tournament championship and runner-up teams
Jennifer lettered in Basketball, Soccer, and Cheer in her time as an ambassador She was named honorable mention and all-conference as a sophomore, and first team all-conference as a junior and senior for basketball She was a member of a conference regular season championship and tournament runnerup team She was also named to the conference all-tournament team as a senior In soccer, Jenni received second and first team all-conference honors She also served as team captain for the basketball and soccer teams during her senior year
Joel was a me TCIS champions In basketball, he state honors an 1,000 points m tennis teams an Norfolk Christian Varsity Boys a Champions - De DR. JOEL UECK
er of the Varsity Swim Team He is a two-time conference ds freestyle events and two-time state champion, winning style and once in the 100 yard freestyle Matthew is also a ference Most Valuable Swimmer award and two-time alldication to athletics, Matthew capped off his career as a n by being named Valedictorian for the Class of 2004
James Michael was a five-year Varsity Boys Basketball standout, finishing his high school career with 2,584 points and 1,121 rebounds He helped lead Norfolk Christian to 25-straight conference victories, three-straight conference regular-season titles and three consecutive conference tournament championships He was instrumental in the Ambassadors capturing back-to-back state titles in 2010 and 2011 James Michael also helped Team USA win gold medals in the FIBA Americas Under-16 Championship and FIBA Under-17 World Championship In addition to helping his teams win multiple championships, James Michael garnered numerous individual accolades during his high school career He was named USA Basketball Male Player of the Year, two-time Gatorade Player of the Year in Virginia, three-time All-State, two-time State Player of the Year, two-time State Tournament Most Valuable Player, and twotime Tidewater Co-Player of the Year He also received USA Today first team All-American and third team Parade All-American honors James Michael participated in the McDonald’s and Jordan Brand All-American games, where he was selected as Co-Most Valuable Player for each game
James Michael McAdoo‘s #14 basketball jersey will be retired and a banner hung in the Smith Gym during Alumni Weekend on Saturday, January 10, 2026 Since that ceremony will occur during his season on the other side of the world, James Michael was presented with his jersey during the Hall of Honor ceremony
TTuesday, December 3rd seemed to be a normal day for students at Norfolk Christian Upper School - but in reality it was the day royalty arrived After attending their normal class schedule, middle and high schoolers were ushered into the Ambassador Gym for a mysterious pep-rally, leaving many curious to know what was going on It was billed as a winter pep-rally to promote the upcoming athletic season But a select few knew what was really happening, a surprise they’d been keeping under wraps for more than a year
Students could feel the suspense as they walked in, heightened by the glow necklaces they were handed on the way But sighs soon emerged as junior Matthew Lambert took the mic and began talking about NCS history After a moment, he claimed technical difficulties and resorted to finishing his speech with a video That’s when things got interesting The lights went black and the gym came alive with the light of hundreds of purple glow sticks A simple black screen started to roll, with Lambert’s voice narrating:
“”The decision to represent the Ambassadors with a lion was pitched by Athletic Director Rich Rose to Superintendent Bob Miller back in the 90s The community agreed and even decided to call him “Royal” in 2018 But there’s always been one thing missinguntil now
Just then, “Welcome to the Jungle” roared through the speakers and Royal himself broke through the screen! The screams were deafening as he ran around the gym, highfiving fans Before the afternoon ended, he
Photography:LlyStrckand
Royal had challenged faculty to a dance-off and arm-wrestled Mr McCleese Then it was time for a nap in his lair to rest up for Winter Hype games that night It was a great day for the whole Ambassador family!
Since Royal’s big reveal, he has become a fixture at all of our campuses, showing up anytime there’s fun to be had, spirit to be spread, or smiles that need to be a little bigger We love you, Royal - welcome to the family!
by Mary Hall Computer & Robotics Teacher
Introducing Vex Robots in our new 4 and 5 grade Robotics elective has been exciting! Vex Robots incorporate all aspects of STEM, requiring students to think critically, problem-solve, and integrate multiple areas of knowledge so that robots are coded and perform correctly Through the Vex coding platform, students build off of prerequisite skills learned in previous years to apply the block code that makes their robots work
Coding is similar to designing and applying algorithms in math The code is constructed block by block, just like a math problem If one line is wrong, the device won’t perform correctly and students must “debug” the code to figure out why
Our Mars Rover project was a great example of this Students researched the surface of Mars and created a replica, carefully constructing craters, volcanoes and red iron dust They then built a base for the rover and coded their robots to drive across their surface, collect a sample, and return to base As students set off on that layered task, there were many times their robots were unable to climb the rough terrain, requiring them to troubleshoot and revise their code until the robot worked correctly It was a great exercise in patience and an excellent integration of the critical thinking and problemsolving skills students will rely on for the rest of their lives
It was also a perfect opportunity to be amazed by our Creator Vex Robots are made of many small, moving parts that students construct piece by piece If even one is misplaced, the whole robot will not function It’s a wonderful launchpad to talk about how lovingly and intricately God created us, His masterpieces Our theme verse is Psalm 139:14:
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well”
Not only are students learning STEM skills and becoming masters at coding, they are seeing evidence of a loving God who perfectly knit them together for His plan
Photography MegHutchinson&LiyStrckand
NCS scholarships are offered thanks to generous advocates who established and funded each award with a heart to encourage Norfolk Christian students in their academic pursuits These scholarships are not based on financial need These are strictly given on merit and meeting the intent of the scholarship criteria
“WE ARE THEREFORE CHRIST’S AMBASSADORS, AS THOUGH GOD WERE MAKING HIS APPEAL THROUGH US. WE IMPLORE YOU ON CHRIST’S BEHALF: BE RECONCILED TO GOD.”
Senior Sophia Randall was recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Committee for excelling on her junior PSATs Sophia was named a Commended Scholar, joining a group that represents less than 3% of all high school seniors nationwide!
We were delighted to honor three juniors during a special assembly in April Students Connor Holmes and Kensington Balam will represent the Class of 2026 as Junior Marshals at graduation! Additionally, Connor Holmes received the William & Mary Leadership book award and Joshua Thomas received UVA’s Jefferson book award
Norfolk Christian was named to the College Board’s platinum-level AP Honor Roll for 2024-25, recognizing our students’ high achievement in AP classes We are so proud of the hard working students and dedicated teachers who earned this recognition!
Additionally, NCS received the 2024 Female Diversity Award for AP Computer Science – the only private school in Hampton Roads and one of just two public or private schools to be recognized in all of Southeastern VA!
Norfolk Christian has a new honor society! Led by teacher and sponsor Mrs Kelly, NEHS inducted 11 new members during its inaugural year During the school year, they organized a service project to help 5th graders with their Expeditionary Learning Project
NCS has been honored with the Resilient River Star School Award in recognition of the work and dedication poured into our shoreline project! This award from the Elizabeth River Project celebrates schools that take meaningful action to protect and restore our local waterways Special shoutout to our ‘25 student leaders: Macey Parker, Keaton Kahler, and Alayna De La Garza
Over spring break, our international students took an unforgettable trip to New York City They visited historic landmarks and iconic tourist spots, enjoyed amazing cuisine, and made lifetime memories in the city that never sleeps
A highlight of the fall for our entire student body is the International Club’s annual International Fair Students designed displays to show peers the best of their home countries and made delicious samples of their favorite foods We also enjoyed a spectacular dance performance from Jenalyn Cunanan, Kensington Balam, and Reese, Lana, and Sophia Perez
Mrs Valencia led twelve high school students on an educational trip to Spain over Spring Break that would provide them with college credit It signals a new era at NCS, as we add global learning to our curricular offerings When the
students weren’t in class, they had a blast visiting landmarks, sampling the world-renowned cuisine, learning to flamenco dance, and experiencing all of the rich culture this beautiful country offers!
Each year, 5th graders study Luke 2 and create artwork that depicts the story of Jesus’s birth as they imagine it A few pieces are then selected to appear on the cover of the official NCS Christmas Card This year’s artwork winners were Cecilia Bautista, Sienna Surratt, and Rilynn Nofplot Congrats on making such beautiful drawings that celebrate the birth of our Savior!
Our Fine Arts Showcase was an incredible Evening With The Arts filled with music, theater, and dance, including performances from students, faculty and even alumni!
Lyianna Duong and Rachel Law performed in this year’s All-Virginia Middle School Treble Honor Choir after being chosen from over 1300 applicants!
Last fall, the NCS Drama Society put on a production of It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Their stellar performance was a hit with audiences and got everyone in the spirit to celebrate Christmas!
Spring band and chorus concerts were a fantastic way to close out the year Students of all ages wowed audience members and showed off all they had learned during the year
AA timeless classic took the stage in this year’s Spring Play Upper School students of all ages joined to create a truly wonderful show!
The entire show was choreographed by rising senior Kensington Balam, who also took on a role on the stage When asked about what she’s the most proud of from this production, she said that “seeing all the parts fit together made me overjoyed!”
The show would not be complete, however, without an incredible ensemble cast Over 3 months, students diligently learned tough choreography, songs, harmonies, and blocking Through the direction of Davis Haymes, it all came together in the end!
In case you missed it, here are a few highlights from the play The most showstopping numbers were “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and “Step in Time”, which both included the entire ensemble cast The latter had multiple lifts and a basket toss! “A Spoonful of Sugar” brought lighthearted humor to the show and “Anything Can Happen” was the bittersweet conclusion to a truly wonderful production
eg g video recording debuted at howcase last March
O God, as Christians we are called to be ambassadors
To share with those who need your love the hope that you’ll restore Ambassadors for Christ are we, wherever you may send
To speak the Gospel to the world With love that never ends
Into this world, prepared to go, We carry forth your love
And though we’ll go through endless trials, You’ll give help from above And when at last we say goodbye To purple, gold, and white May Norfolk Christian’s call to love
Remain a guiding light
Three members of our Varsity Girl’s Basketball Team reached the impressive milestone of 1000 Career Points this year Congrats to sophomore Kiera Kilkenny (left), sophomore Justice Brown-Jones (middle), and junior Abuna Roup (right)! 34 | AMBASSADOR MAGAZINE 2025
The Indoor and Outdoor Track teams continue to show up and show out! The Girl’s 4x100m relay (left top) took home the TCIS title last spring and 8th grader Brianna Norman won the 200m dash In Indoor Track, the Girl’s 4x800m relay (left bottom) came in 1st in TCIS, 2nd in states, and set a new school record!
Seventh Grader Sammy Reed (left) was the one to beat at every track and cross country competition this year He came in 1st place in the JV boys division at the TCIS
Kasey Barcroft’s leadership on the Varsity Baseball team had a huge impact on the team’s success The team more than doubled their win count from last season! As a senior, Kasey was selected to the 1st Team AllConference and 2nd Team All-State teams for Baseball He also accomplished the rare feat of being a three-season senior athlete, competing on the Volleyball and Swimming teams as well Kasey is excited to continue his baseball career at Barton College this fall
Junior Matthew Lambert had a busy year at the microphone As an aspiring sports announcer, Matthew is the familiar voice providing commentary and game energy at most NCS athletic events He also writes game scripts and creates the production elements that make our events fun and hype up the crowd Matthew was even featured in a magazine article this summer that went to 50,000 Virginia Beach households!
Sofia Harris (right) and Antonia Guth (left) led Girl’s Tennis as the team’s #1 doubles pair and #1 & #2 singles players, respectively Both were selected for the All-Conference First Team in singles and doubles Sofia was selected for First Team All-State and Antonia was named to Second Team AllState Their hard work and dedication paid off!
by Matthew Lambert Class of 2026
nother great season is in the books for Norfolk Christian’s Varsity Girls Basketball team For the first time since 2016-17, our Varsity Girls earned the title of TCIS Champions! After a fiercely contested post-season across Virginia, they also came away as VISAA State Runners-Up The powerhouse team finished with one of the best records in program history, ending their regular season 20-2, with an undefeated 8-0 run against TCIS conference opponents
The season was filled with notable moments, including defeating public school standouts #3 Menchville and #10 Deep Creek over Christmas Break The team also had the privilege of traveling to New York City in January to play in the Mecca Tournament, a top national showcase attended by D1 college coaches However, the biggest regular-season highlight was their upset of TCIS Rivals, #2 Catholic High School in early February, during a long-awaited rematch of the 2024 TCIS championship game In front of a packed home crowd, the Ambassadors came away with the W they’d been eyeing since last year Just two weeks later, Ambassadors showed up again for the TCIS championship game that pitted Christian against Catholic High for a final time It was a hard-fought overtime thriller where our Ambassador girls left nothing on the court, defeating Catholic to bring home the title of 2025 TCIS Champions
Individually, our players had serious accomplishments this year Sophomores Justice Brown-Jones and Keira Kilkenny, and junior Abuna Ruop all scored their 1,000th career points! Keira also fueled the team's win over HRA at the end of the regular season with eight 3-pointers in one night Eighth grader Brianna Norman posted a triple double against Hampton Christian, recording 14 points, 13 assists, and 10 steals, and earning the Athlete
of the Week honor from local news program 13 NewsNow
Beyond the ripples in local sports coverage, several girls received national coverage as well In February, Keira Kilkenny was nominated for Sports Illustrated’s National Girls Athlete of the Week Justice Brown-Jones, Brianna Norman, and Abuna Ruop each earned TCIS First Team All-Conference honors, while Tamia Dyson and Keira Kilkenny were named to the TCIS Second Team All-Conference Additionally, Justice Brown-Jones was named the 2025 TCIS Tournament MVP, after posting a double-double in the championship game against Catholic High School with 22 points and 13 rebounds
The Ambassadors began this historic season ranked fifth among private schools in the 757 and ended ranked number two So what’s next? As Head Coach Mike Fariss retires and passes the baton to Assistant Coach Latrice Hunter, former All-American and part of the storied NCS 2012 state championship program, these girls have one message they want everyone to hear: they’re not done making history We don’t know exactly what 2025-2026 will bring for our Girls Basketball team, but we know it will be another one for the storybooks LET’S GO CHRISTIAN!
Kby Amy Purcell
Known as the “fastest game on two feet,” lacrosse has its roots in the Native American tribes of the Eastern Seaboard, who used the game to settle intertribal disputes, toughen young warriors for combat, and honor the Creator As many as 100 young men would participate, attempting to move a buckskin or wooden ball between goalposts up to six miles apart There was also a women’s game, known as “amtahcha,” which, in the Iroquois version, featured shorter sticks and two balls in play simultaneously
While the game has changed significantly since the 16th century, it continues to grow in popularity and reach Over the past decade, Norfolk Christian’s lacrosse program has seen exciting developments, beginning with the hiring of Coach Lee Duckworth in 2017 Duckworth, who played club lacrosse at the U S Naval Academy, initially served as the Middle School coach, then Varsity assistant, and eventually Varsity Head Coach To augment the new program’s participation numbers, Duckworth partnered with Granby High School to field a club team in the Hampton Roads Lacrosse (HR Lax) league, ensuring that students at both schools would have the chance to compete
Following the Covid shutdown, Coach Nat Pierce joined Duckworth in 2021 Pierce is an NCS parent and former standout player at Messiah College who leveraged his organizational connections in the lacrosse community to enhance the existing program, while also providing the financial underpinning for growth, forging a partnership with Fellowship of Christian Athletes Lacrosse, and bringing long-term program vision and strategy
Under the direction of Nat Pierce, along with Pat Kelly, NCS parent and former player at Hampden-Sydney College, and Duckworth, the team achieved varsity status and played its first TCIS opponents in 2022 That same season also saw the revival of a strong Middle School program, led by former Cape Henry Collegiate standout Andrew Branson and Amy Purcell, NCS parent and former player at the U S Naval Academy
With a current roster of close to 40 studentathletes, the boys Varsity team is making a legitimate mark in Hampton Roads The 2025 season brought their first victory over a TCIS opponent, first players to earn All-TCIS honors, and first TCIS scoring and assist leaders Sophomore Sean LaBeff recorded a major milestone in April, scoring his 100 career goal The boys ended the season with a competitive record of 10-11 and are ready to prove themselves again next year th
Spring 2025 featured another milestone in NCS lacrosse history, as the school launched a High School Girls Club, coached by Purcell This 32-player squad spent its first season competing in the HR Lax league and is following a roadmap to achieve Varsity TCIS status within the next five years Although the program was young, NCS freshman Arden Pierce was chosen to be among 36 players competing in the HR Lax All-Star game, one of only four freshmen on the roster Arden proved she belonged by delivering a standout performance where she scored three goals, including a key 4thquarter goal that helped secure a 13–11 win for her side
As NCS’s lacrosse program continues to grow, its commitment to excellence, teamwork, and honoring Christ remains at the core of its success With a strong foundation, dedicated coaches, and passionate athletes, the future of NCS lacrosse is bright!
FFor nearly 30 years, the Beazley Foundation has been a steadfast partner in Norfolk Christian’s mission, contributing more than $520,000 toward initiatives that have strengthened academics, expanded facilities, enhanced technology, and provided tuition assistance for students across Hampton Roads Its newest investment, a $200,000 grant, supports the Fred W Beazley Living Shoreline, a transformative conservation and outdoor learning project on our Norfolk campus
The Living Shoreline will restore 500 feet along Wayne Creek into a sustainable, interactive “living laboratory,” where students from Pre-K through 12th grade can explore environmental science, stewardship, and conservation in a hands-on way Developed with the Elizabeth River Project, Wetlands Watch, and Calvert Marine, it integrates STEM learning with real-world ecological restoration as students help install and maintain the shoreline alongside environmental experts Norfolk Christian is currently securing the necessary permits so the project can begin in the spring of 2026
“This grant helps bring an extraordinary vision to life and turns God’s creation into a living classroom for our students,” said Alex Gispert, Head of School “It will inspire generations to care for the world God has entrusted to us, all while honoring the legacy of Fred W Beazley ” Work on the shoreline restoration is expected to begin in the spring of 2026, with completion anticipated by August 2027
When complete, the project will deliver lasting benefits for both creation and student learning Native plants and a restored buffer will prevent erosion, rain gardens and permeable walkways will naturally filter stormwater, and a boardwalk and outdoor classrooms will invite students to discover the interconnectedness of God’s creation
40 | AMBASSADOR MAGAZINE
AAs summer came to a close, something extraordinary took shape along our Upper School shoreline The Sue Royster Birding & Boat Launch Pier, a centerpiece of Norfolk Christian’s Shoreline Project, now stands as a beautiful reminder of how learning, worship, and stewardship come together in the heart of God’s creation When students and faculty returned to the Upper School campus, they were greeted not just by familiar faces but by an inspiring new space that invites them to study, pray, and explore the wonder of His world
This transformational project honors the legacy of Sue Royster, former science teacher, curriculum innovator, alumni parent, Beach Campus grandparent, board member, and lifelong friend to Norfolk Christian Over 27 years, Sue redefined science education at NCS, authoring courses from Oceanography to AP Biology and grounding every lesson in a biblical worldview She inspired generations of students with her joyful catchphrase, “We do school here,” and with her passion to know by name what God has created As an alumni parent, current grandparent, and devoted board member, her influence is woven into the very fabric of our school
In recognition of her remarkable impact and vision for an outdoor learning space in our own backyard, the Norfolk Christian Board of Trustees formally approved naming the pier in her honor A dedication ceremony will be held this fall to celebrate a woman whose life and work shaped minds, nurtured faith, and left a legacy that will bless students for years to come
“Restoring this shoreline has been a longtime passion. I’m so thankful to see this project coming to life and to be a part of it.”
-Sue Royster
Photography LilyStrickland
September 25, 2024
Last fall, the Norfolk Christian community gathered to honor the life and legacy of Jenni Prevette, Class of 1991, in a heartfelt stage dedication ceremony The event marked the official naming of the newly updated Jenni Prevette Memorial Stage in the Ambassador Gym, a space that now stands as a lasting tribute to Jenni’s example of Christian character, service, and grace
Tributes were shared by classmates Cathy (Vail) Britt ‘90 and Brian Wilcox ’91, before dad Hank Prevette took the stage to remember Jenni’s legacy At the close of the event, the Prevette family – Luke, Jen, David '93, Susie, Jack, Hank, Grant, and Ella – stood together in front of the newly dedicated stage, surrounded by friends, faculty, and alumni who knew and loved Jenni It was a powerful moment of remembrance and gratitude, reflecting the deep impact she made as an alumna, sister, student, and friend
The Jenni Prevette Memorial Stage continues to serve as more than just a performance space It is a reminder to students, staff, and guests that a life lived in faith and humility leaves a lasting mark We are thankful for the Prevette family and the opportunity to honor Jenni in a way that will bless the Norfolk Christian community for i
IIn memory of beloved Lower School teacher Laura Edwards, the Norfolk Christian community established the Laura W Edwards Memorial Endowed Academic Grant in 2023 to honor her passion for faith-filled learning, creative thinking, and student growth A gifted resource teacher and mother to three NCS alumni, Laura spent nearly 15 years inspiring students to pursue Christ with excellence and curiosity These were values she lived out faithfully, even through years of physical suffering
Today, this academic grant continues her impact by equipping teachers and students with resources that bring learning to life outside of the regular classroom budget Thanks to generous contributions made in Laura’s memory, the grant has already supported a number of transformational experiences across our lower school campuses: Each reflects the spirit Laura embodied a commitment to spiritual growth, intellectual challenge, and joyful discovery Through the Laura Edwards Memorial Grant, Laura’s passion continues to inspire and shape young minds Her legacy of faith, excellence, and creativity lives on in every student impacted
In 2024 - 2025, the Laura Edwards Memorial Grant sponsored:
STEM in Action: Fifth graders explored physics and aerodynamics through a real-world experience at iFLY, where they conducted experiments and applied classroom concepts to flight
Environmental Discovery: Second and fourth grade students partnered with the Elizabeth River Project and Chesapeake Bay Foundation to study ecosystems, water conservation, and oyster restoration areas Laura was passionate about
Hands-On Robotics: The grant funded new VEX GO kits to expand our lower school robotics labs, encouraging design thinking, coding mastery, and teamwork
Because You Gave
Every image on these pages tells a story written by the generosity of faithful partners From daily Annual Fund needs to major capital projects and special initiatives, these stories came to life because our generous community gave Each supporter helped fuel the top-tier, Christ-centered education that makes Norfolk Christian unique
In FY 2024-2025, our community gave $1,524,227 in charitable donations Every dollar was used intentionally to make a lasting impact on students and teachers Through your support, God enabled us to remain faithful stewards, equipping Ambassadors for Christ and fulfilling the mission He has entrusted to us
We are deeply grateful for you
The Annual Fund closes the gap between tuition and the full cost of Christ-centered education at Norfolk Christian Your gift strengthens academics, equips teachers through faculty development, and fuels strong arts and athletics, enriching student life Thank you for equipping Ambassadors for Christ
$ 297,753 $ 147,186
February 13, 2025
$ 35,091 Raised!
TThis year’s Lower School Boosterthon Dance Fit fundraiser was a joyful, high-energy event that brought students, teachers, and families together for a great cause From dance breaks to inflatable costume races, and a visit from our beloved mascot Royal, the day was filled with laughter, teamwork, and celebration
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our families, sponsors, and community supporters, $35,091 was raised to support vital programs and upgrades at both of our lower school campuses
These funds will directly benefit:
STEM and Robotics programs
Continued campus security upgrades
Expeditionary learning experiences that bring classroom lessons to life
We are so thankful for everyone who gave, cheered, danced, and made this event a success Your support fuels more than just fun it strengthens the tools, safety, and innovation our students need to thrive
WWhen the Upton family moved to Virginia in 1977, only the Lord knew the impact they would have on countless Norfolk Christian families In the fall of 1979, fourth grade students began their year with a new teacher, Mrs Karen Upton, and quickly discovered that she was no ordinary teacher She was full of whimsy and wonder and a love for the Lord that transcended all subjects In 1993, Dr Upton became Principal of the Lower School and continued the tradition of whimsy and wonder,
this time for all lower school students! Many will remember Apple Day, the Thanksgiving Feast , reciting Luke 2 at Christmas, and dressing up as a historical figure for the Wax Museum For 36 years, Dr Upton brought all of this and more to our lower school campuses Above all, she brought a genuine desire to serve the Lord and did so faithfully and with eternal purpose
As Lower School students were learning to wonder, Upper School students were learning that Mr Upton was a jack of all trades For more than 30 years, Tom Upton faithfully served as High School Principal, Cross Country coach, and teacher-extraordinaire of various math, science, history and Bible classes He also brought numerous Japanese students to NCS through a homestay program, which was the precursor to our current international program Like his wife, Mr Upton had a genuine desire to serve Christ, and to do so faithfully wherever he was needed
To honor the Godly legacy and servant hearts of the Upton family, Norfolk Christian is honored to announce the Upton Family Merit Scholarship This scholarship will be awarded to one student each year to off-set the cost of tuition It is a wonderful legacy for a truly remarkable couple
Norfolk Christian is committed to providing students with a Christcentered education that nurtures their academic, artistic, and athletic potential The Upton Family Merit Scholarship, established in 2025, helps make that vision accessible to high school students who demonstrate strong character, mission alignment, and strength in at least two areas including academics, fine arts, or athletics
The scholarship also encourages families to partner with the school through volunteer service and active involvement in their church By combining personal achievement with community engagement, it reflects the holistic approach to education that Norfolk Christian values
Awarded annually, the scholarship follows the school’s open enrollment cycle, with applications opening in November and closing in January Recipients are notified in February, and the award is applied directly to the student’s tuition account on July 1st Students may be considered for renewal each year if they continue to meet eligibility criteria and fulfill parent partnership commitments
Through this scholarship, Norfolk Christian removes financial barriers so that talented and mission-aligned students can fully experience the school’s rigorous, Christ-centered program The Upton Family Merit Scholarship ensures that excellence, service, and faith continue to shape the next generation of Ambassadors for Christ
NNorfolk Christian stands just three miles from the largest naval base in the world As most military families call Norfolk home at some point in their careers, our community is blessed to have a strong population of military families As a small show of gratitude for their service, we have created a new Military Family Scholarship Fund, which assists a limited number of military families per year with a $1000 scholarship toward tuition Families may apply through a scholarship process and the award is available regardless of rank
In our inaugural year, Norfolk Christian was pleased to award 20 $1,000 scholarships to military families in the NCS community
E ery day, Norfolk Christian teachers and staff pour mselves into our students with quiet faithfulness The orthy Servants Fund is our community’s way of saying thank u Funded entirely by generous donors, this annual bonus is en to faculty and staff just before Christmas Break to bless m and their families and to encourage their hearts This gift eparate from salary and benefits and does not come from ion Donors designate their gifts specifically to the Worthy vants Fund so those who serve our students feel valued d supported during a meaningful season
you would like to help provide this year’s bonus, please bmit your designated gift to the Worthy Servants Fund no er than December 5
TThank you for making a lasting impact Your generosity helps provide an excellent, Christ-centered education while keeping tuition accessible for more families
If the stories on these pages have inspired you, we invite you to be part of what God is doing here Whether directed to a specific fund or given where most needed, every gift matters Our greatest need remains the Annual Fund, which supports every student, every campus, every day
To learn more or make a gift, contact Amy Moreau at amy moreau@norfolkchristian org or 757-226-7247
EQUIP THE NEXT GENERATION OF AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST
Makeaone-timedonation orsetuparecurring monthlygift
Giveonlineat: norfolkchristianorg/give Ormailacheckto: AdvancementOffice NorfolkChristianSchools 255TholeStreet Norfolk,VA23505
GIFTS IN KIND
From professional services to equipment and supplies, NCS gratefully receives goods and services that support our students and programs
MATCHING GIFTS
Many employers match charitable gifts from current or retired employees Check with your company to see if your donation can go twice as far
Support need-based tuition scholarships by donating through our partner foundation You’ll earn a substantial state tax credit and give the gift of a Christcentered education
APPRECIATED ASSETS
Donating stock or real estate you’ve owned for over a year may generate significant tax savings while supporting our mission
PLANNED GIFTS
It doesn’t have to be complicated to include NCS in your will or estate plan We can help guide you through future gift options that leave a lasting legacy
June 6, 2025 A Record-Breaking Year $101,000 Raised!
TThe 16th Annual John Elder Classic Golf Tournament brought together 132 golfers, 33 alumni players, 29 volunteers, and 32 generous sponsors – all rallying to support Norfolk Christian students and teachers Thanks to their incredible commitment, the tournament raised a recordbreaking $101,000 after expenses, directly benefiting every NCS campus
We are especially grateful for a $10,000 gift earmarked for our Teachers’ Annual Christmas Bonus, a meaningful way to bless the educators who give so much to our school community
Since its founding in 2009, the John Elder Classic has raised a total of $718,000 to support missioncritical needs This year’s total will enhance technology, facilities, and learning environments that nurture students’ spiritual, intellectual, and physical growth
Thank you to every golfer, sponsor, volunteer, and donor who helped make this tournament the most impactful one yet Your generosity continues to shape the future of Norfolk Christian Schools
Proceeds from the John Elder Classic have contributed to people and projects throughout Norfolk Christian’s campuses. Recent proceeds have supported:
Beach Campus Playground
Upper School Fine Arts and Athletics Enhancements
Annual Teacher Bonuses
Norfolk Lower School
Community Learning Centers
Beach Campus Robotics Program
New and Replacement Activity Buses
Technology Upgrades
New Classroom Computers
Capital Debt Reduction
Maintenance Projects
COVID Emergency Tuition Assistance
Special Projects at All Three Campuses
The Class of 2025 has officially joined the almost 3000 alumni of Norfolk Christian. Before they got to the graduation stage, they lived every moment of their senior year to its fullest. The year kicked off with senior sunrise and their fall senior trip at Camp Silver Beach, where they took part in bonding activities and daily worship. They were the most spirited on campus for their last Homecoming week, dressing up for spirit days, dominating in the Powder Puff game, and spending an incredible Homecoming evening together with tailgating and football. As fall came to a close, their years of hard work paid off and they earned more early college acceptances than any class in NCS history! In the spring, they went to their final prom, celebrated the next step in their lives on Donuts & Decisions Day, painted senior squares, attended senior dinner, and some went to Orlando for Grad Bash, a new senior tradition. Their year concluded with senior sunset, where parents prayed over their futures. Finally, they had all the feels walking the halls on the last day of school to cheers and confetti from the rest of the school. Graduation brought one final first for the Class of 2025; they were the first NCS Class to have the Governor of Virginia as their commencement speaker. Congratulations, Class of 2025! God has amazing plans for you and we could not be more proud of all you have accomplished
Graduates AP Scholars Million Offered in Scholarships by the numbers
45 15 84% $2.9 Graduated with Honors
AppalachianStateUniversity
ArizonaStateUniversity
AuburnUniversity
BartonCollege
BelmontUniversity
BridgewaterCollege
CampbellUniversity
CarrollUniversity
CatholicUniversityofAmerica
CharlestonSouthernUniversity
ChristopherNewportUniversity
ClemsonUniversity
EastCarolinaUniversity
EasternUniversity
FloridaA&MUniversity
FloridaInstituteofTechnology
FloridaSouthernCollege
FordhamUniversity
FortLewisCollege
GeorgeMasonUniversity
GeorgetownUniversity
HamptonUniversity
J.SargeantReynoldsCommunityCollege
JamesMadisonUniversity
LibertyUniversity
LongwoodUniversity
LouisianaStateUniversity
MarymountUniversity
MichiganStateUniversity
NorthCarolinaStateUniversity
NorthParkUniversity
OldDominionUniversity
PalmBeachAtlanticUniversity
PennsylvaniaStateUniversity
PfeifferUniversity
RadfordUniversity
Randolph-MaconCollege
RegentUniversity
RoanokeCollege
SamfordUniversity
ShenandoahUniversity
SouthernMethodistUniversity
TaylorUniversity
TempleUniversity
TidewaterCommunityCollege
TuskegeeUniversity
UnitedStatesCoastGuardAcademy UniversityofAlabama UniversityofArizona UniversityofKentucky UniversityofLynchburg UniversityofMichigan UniversityofMississippi UniversityofNorthCarolina-Charlotte UniversityofNotreDame UniversityofOklahoma UniversityofSouthCarolina UniversityofSouthFlorida UniversityofTampa UniversityofTennessee-Chattanooga UniversityofVirginia
VirginiaBeachFireAcademy
VirginiaCommonwealthUniversity
VirginiaTech
WestVirginiaUniversity
WilliamandMary
YWAMDiscipleshipTrainingSchool
John Paxton
Dublin
Virginia Tech
ophia stina lkins
The versity abama
Sara Naomi Crumri
Liberty University
Caroline Dale Ewing
Christopher Newport University
Jenalyn Pasia Cunanan
Virginia Tech
ollin
Ray llion
mes ison University
Alayna
Marie De La Garza
James Madison University
Lam Anh Tran
North Park University
James Madison University
Angiery SernaJiminez
Vivian Grace Rex Regent University
Kaleb Brian Daniel Warrick Virginia Commonwealth University
Cambell Jane White Samford University
Ty Lucas Smith
Tidewater Community College
Avery Caroline Soca
United States Coast Guard Academy
Andrew
James Wood
Taylor University
Theodore Jackson Wool V
Old Dominion University
Homecoming hits differently when it’s the last one, and the Class of 2025 made the most of every moment. From spirit week to taking the trophy at the iconic powder puff game to tailgating to cheering and playing in their last homecoming football game, it was a week they will always remember
When Senior Ethan Barron suggested that the class do the “decisions cake” trend, he had no idea what he was setting into motion. Ethan created logo sticks for each college the class was attending and the Marketing Department provided a cake. On Donuts & Decisions Day, seniors gathered on Main Street and group by group, our social media team filmed them saying where they would be attending college. A video filmed in one, 90-second take with no practice has since garnered over 12 million views on Instagram and Facebook. Great idea, Ethan!
Just two weeks later, our social media team filmed a group of kindergarteners jumping over a phone, then filmed Kaleb, Ethan, Morgan, Jenalyn, and Sara coming out on the other side in their graduation robes. The reel has amassed more than 11 million views on Facebook and Instagram!
Visual Art: Tran My Duong
Choral Art: Jenalyn Cunanan
Instrumental Art: Landon Pruhs
Theater Art: Grace Rex
English:
Lela Nugent
Social Studies:
Digital Art: Joel Brunoni
Drumline Art: Paxton Dublin
Fine Arts Outstanding Achievement: Mariesa Perez
Service Award:
Margaret Bayse, Jenalyn Cunanan, and Macey Parker
Bible Award:
Sara Crumrine and Joel Brunoni
Leadership Award:
Avery Soca and Ethan Barron
Citizenship Award:
Lam Anh Tran, Grace Rex, Tran My Duong, and Kaleb Warrick
Ambassador Award:
Sophia Randall and Landon Pruhs
Lela Nugent and Sophia Randall
Mathematics:
Margaret Bayse and Sophia Randall
Science:
Kasey Barcroft and Micah Liu
Latin:
Margaret Bayse and Keaton Kahler
Spanish:
Caroline Ewing and Amelia Naffin
Technology:
Landon Pruhs and Avery Soca
American Sign Language:
Mariesa Perez and Lam Anh Tran
Scholar Athletes:
Sophia Randall and Landon Pruhs
Athletes of the Year:
Avery Soca and Ty Smith
The Class of 2025 brought the laughs when their “prank” was to tailgate before school one day. Staff showed up at 7am to find the senior lot in full game day mode - they even brought a ping-pong table!
Eight seniors from the Class of 2025 are second generation Norfolk Christian alumni!
From Top: Jack Wool and Teddy, Mark Parker and Macey, Adam Rex and Grace, Cathy (Cullifer) Kahler and Keaton, Robert and Jennifer (Lady)Pruhs with Landon, Bryan Rex and Evelyn, Andi (Scharfe) Nugent and Lela.
Not pictured: Michelle (Jeter) Brunoni and AJ.
In 1977, Bob and Harriet Clay had no idea the decision to send their three children to Norfolk Christian would impact the family for generations Almost 50 years later, the Clay family has seen a second generation of children graduate from Norfolk Christian and is watching some of the third generation thrive at our Beach Campus The family has been actively involved through the years at both the Board level and on our staff In fact, one of the reasons Catherine (Clay) Bergethon decided to become a teacher is because of the impact NCS had on her as a student Now, she has the privilege of molding young Ambassadors for Christ daily as the Assistant Director of the Norfolk Lower School
FRONT: Steve Tignor, Nolan, Declan, Haven, Lauren (Burns) Tignor ‘08, Amanda (Clay) Hadley ‘10 with Ella BACK: Adrian & Kirstyn (Bergethon), Greg & Catherine (Clay) ‘90 Bergethon, Clay Burns ‘12, Julie (Clay)’81 & Curt Lowery, Bob Clay, Jeff Clay ‘82 with Lily, Hannah Clay with Grace, Jeffery Clay ‘12, Rhonda Clay, Blake Hadley ‘10, John McCormick with Zach, Kelly (Burns) McCormick ‘15 with Julia Not pictured: Ashlyn Bergethon, Abi Bergethon ‘22
The third generation! Haven, Declan, and Nolan Tignor
Grace and Lily Clay
Zach, Julia, and Ambrose McCormick
Ella Hadley
Seventh grade ECT, a Bible verse teachers had chosen just for you at graduation, a community centered around Christ - these were some of the reasons Bryan and Kelly Rex wanted their kids to follow in Bryan’s footsteps at Norfolk Christian “It’s striking that each of us did the same thing,” he says Choosing NCS is not an easy financial decision, but it was such a positive experience that we felt the sacrifice our parents made was worth repeating for the next generation” All three Rex siblings have watched their own children graduate from NCS in the last five years, with the youngest for both Bryan and Adam now in 10 grade Jerry and Judy are thrilled to see their grandkids getting the same Christian education they were able to provide their children decades ago th
by Brianna Crapanzano
BBack in “the day,” NCS had a strict facial hair policy Young men had to be clean shaven and beards of any kind were not allowed For most high school students, this wasn’t an issue But for a few whose facial hair grew especially fast, shaving became a part-time job One young man who lived with the latter was Arrington Gavin of the class of 2013 Arrington had the blessing and curse of a full beard by the time he was 14 While it made for good bragging rights, it was also a daily problem to contend with under Norfolk Christian’s clean-shaven rule Arrington had to shave frequently, and doing so caused his skin to break out, something every teenage boy dreads As a rule-follower, he toed the line throughout high school and walked across the graduation stage with a baby face But from that day on, he’s been proudly rocking a beard
Arrington’s next stop after NCS was Chowan University in North Carolina Once on the small campus, he couldn’t help but notice how many fellow students also had facial hair He’s a clean-cut man who cares deeply about style He was excited for the new freedom of letting his beard grow, but Arrington still wanted to be wellgroomed Looking around campus each day, he realized how many others were in the same situation That
While he worked toward his degree in Wellness Recreation and Sport, Arrington began searching for products to solve his new beard dilemma He was surprised how little was out there that actually worked, especially when looking for natural ingredients, a non-negotiable for his sensitive skin The options he did find were only available at luxury prices “Where are the products for regular guys who want to look put together?” he wondered Out of necessity, Arrington began experimenting with his own concoctions, hoping to create a mixture that did exactly what he wanted After much trial and error in his parents’ kitchen, Arrington finally hit on two perfect prototypes, a beard balm and beard oil that were soothing to the skin, gave him the distinctive look he was seeking, and didn’t break the bank When friends at school started dipping into his products and then asking for more, he realized this was an opportunity he couldn’t ignore Shortly after graduation, Arrington created an in-depth business plan and began selling his all-natural beard balm and beard oil to the public He named the line Rugged Evolution
The brand filled a void in the market and gave Arrington an unexpected full-time job, promoting Rugged Evolution from the ground up He worked tirelessly in those years, marketing his products everywhere he could He naturally loved talking to people and had a great testimonial to share; he also knew each conversation could show a potential customer why his brand was different So he shared his message over and over The hard work paid off With every new exposure, Rugged Evolution’s loyal following grew and started to spread across the country Arrington knew he had gained a legitimate place in the market when Essence Magazine featured his products in its 2018 Gift Guide Today, the company has gone from selling his two original items to carrying dozens of curated, all-natural products on their website You can also find Rugged Evolution on Etsy, Amazon, and at Walmart com
While Arrington watched his customer base expand, the relationships he had worked so hard to cultivate opened another door he wasn’t expecting, into the world of media and entertainment After landing a few realization would soon spark a venture he had never dreamed of
A L U M N I F E A T U R E
U M N
segments to promote his products on local media, Arrington’s friendly nature and ease on the air stood out They led him to frequent guest spots on WTKR’s Coast Live and other local news programs Those, in turn, opened bigger opportunities and eventually, Arrington launched his own radio show and podcast, The Arrington Gavin show, where he talks about everything from pop culture to sports to politics And yes, even beards With over 400 episodes, you can find The Arrington Gavin Show on any podcast platform
Like most entrepreneurs, community relationships were key to Arrington’s business growth He often speaks to young professionals about the vital roles of persistence and networking in helping a new business thrive It’s clearly a place where he shines After years of working to grow his brand, Arrington was incredibly honored to be awarded the Black Men Rock “Entrepreneur of the Year” award in 2023
As Rugged Evolution grew, Arrington wanted a way to pour back into the community he loved In 2019, he created the Rugged Evolution foundation, which serves youth in Hampton Roads and has a focus on
boys ages 13-18 In its first six years, the foundation has touched more than 3,600 families Arrington is committed to making that number grow Their biggest event is a back-to-school giveaway that looks like an old-fashioned neighborhood block party! They not only fill backpacks with free school supplies, there are snow cones, face painting, free haircuts, and the Sheriff’s Office even comes out to create Identakid cards Arrington also serves on the Board of NILD with his former NCS Head of School, Dr Jane Duffey Free time is precious, so when he has spare moments, you’ll find him spending them with his wife, SheAyre and their dog, Carter
Who would have imagined that a facial hair policy at Norfolk Christian would be the catalyst for a career Arrington Gavin never knew he wanted? Through it all, his dream for Rugged Evolution has never wavered “I want to change the narrative,” he says, “ to get rid of the stigma around facial hair and show men that you can be professional and have a beard You just have to do it well ” As he continues to spread that message and sell his products to “men of distinction” across the country, Rugged Evolution is boldly accomplishing Arrington’s mission, one beard at a time
by Brianna Crapanzano ‘13
Wo you want to be when you grow up? It’s a n young people are asked frequently Some ready answer, while others have to admit not quite sure Emma (Rimmer) Geis ’18 would len into that second group “In high school, I exactly sure what I wanted to pursue as a career I just knew I loved art as well as science ”
Those loves were equally clear to Emma’s teachers, as she excelled in both subjects during her years at Norfolk Christian Many NCS alumni will remember the famous Royster drawings required in Biology class, the ones she told us we didn’t have to be artists to create Even with that encouragement, the task still filled some of us with dread But for a student like Emma, it was her chance to shine She couldn’t believe she got to draw as part of a science class! She still remembers the day Mrs Royster told her that her drawing abilities were a God-given talent, one she hoped Emma would continue to pursue That was a pivotal moment that Emma would recall often over the next few years
Another teacher who made an indelible mark was high school art teacher, Rita Ray “Her instruction was instrumental,” Emma says “I had no idea at the time but many of the pieces I made in her classes ended up in the portfolio that got me accepted into art school Spending time in the art room was always a highlight of my school day ”
With two passions that seemed to be opposites, Emma never dreamed there was a perfect marriage of the two out there She briefly researched career avenues like art therapy in Mr Doyle’s Life Calling class, but
never landed on anything that might turn her hobby into a livelihood So she made what seemed the responsible decision and decided to pursue Biology, with a plan to keep her artistic outlet alive through side hustles and free time However, as she says, “God had other plans!”
Other plans indeed After graduating from Norfolk Christian, Emma started her collegiate journey at Wheaton College in Chicago By spring semester, Biology was starting to feel like the wrong path, so she was considering a change in major She was also thinking about a move closer to home and began researching possible transfer schools During that process, Emma finally discovered the missing piece of the puzzle: a bachelor of fine arts degree with a concentration in illustration, which she could subsequently use to get her master’s in medical illustration Science and art together? She thought back to all of those drawings for Mrs Royster and realized what God had been preparing her for It was a dream come true The best part was that Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of the Arts offered exactly the program she was looking for! When her sophomore year started, Emma had traded Chicago for Richmond and was elated to be working toward her B F A in Communication Arts with a concentration in Drawing and Illustration at VCU It turned out to be the perfect fit
In 2022, Emma graduated magna cum laude from VCUarts But that wasn’t the biggest news of the year Just two weeks after turning her tassel, she married her high school sweetheart, Keegan Geis ‘19, then took the next year to get her portfolio together and apply to grad schools In her highly-specialized field, only a handful of schools offer graduate degrees, so she was thrilled to be accepted to the prestigious master of science program at the University of Illinois Chicago When she arrived in Chicago this time, it would be for more than a new school and new degree; it would be the beginning of a new life for Mr and Mrs Keegan Geis
The UIC master’s program was fast-paced and stretched Emma to hone every skill It also introduced her to people and organizations that would be crucial to her career In fact, she was only a few weeks into the program when her biggest “pinch-me” moment yet came about As part of a class assignment, she was tasked with creating a piece for an article about racial equity in the field of bioethics Inspired by classic editorial looks like The New Yorker, she came up with a fun illustration featuring a mosaic of diverse cartoon
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faces that fit together almost like puzzle pieces She had no idea the door it was about to open Her art was not just well-received It ended up on the cover of the October 2024 American Journal of Bioethics! “That was such an exciting opportunity for my work to be seen by the broader science community,” she recalls “It was an incredible honor!”
In the spring of 2025, Emma graduated magna cum laude with an M S in Biomedical Visualization from the University of Illinois In doing so, she joined a small, specialized group of professionals who are uniquely trained for medical illustration In the months since, she has continued to stay busy as a freelance artist, medical illustrator, and graphic designer for multiple organizations
This fall is bringing another move for the Geis family, and they couldn’t be happier While Emma was in school in Chicago, Keegan was serving as full-time Worship Pastor at their home church, Hope Church Pilsen The talented couple has been performing together since their days at Norfolk Christian and it holds a big place in their lives Emma often joins Keegan on stage as a keyboardist and worship singer She says, “I have to give a shoutout to the chapel leadership band at NCS for giving me my start playing in worship bands! It’s a huge part of why I now volunteer at churches ”
Wedding Day in May 2022, Keegan performing at “Coffeehouse” at Liberty University, playing at one of Chicago’s legendary blues clubs, and Keegan & Emma on a recent trip to Orlando
In late September, they’ll be saying goodbye to Chicago once again and making their way back to the East Coast, where Keegan will serve as Ministry Apprentice at Downtown Hope Church in Annapolis Emma will continue to work as a freelance medical illustrator and graphic artist, while also serving as Downtown Hope’s graphic designer part-time What they’re most excited about is being near their families for the first time in their married life
After a whirlwind seven years, with many twists and turns, Emma finally has an answer to the question “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Ironically, it’s a job she didn’t know existed until a few years ago God led her to it at just the right time Her encouragement to readers is this: “Don’t think you can’t do what you love every day, and don’t think your hobby can’t become a hustle You never know what the Lord will do!”
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Grace saves flowers from a wedding to redistribute to the community
by Sophia Randall ‘25
AAfter graduating from Norfolk Christian in 2020, Grace Milligan’s future seemed set She attended the University of Lynchburg, double majoring in Environmental Sustainability and Business Administration with a minor in International Relations She was also a member and two-year captain of the Varsity Girls Soccer team After graduation, however, she fully embraced an unexpected journey that took her far from her family in Virginia and led her to the town of Birmingham, Alabama
This journey started when Grace’s sister, Paige, pursued missions work with World Race during her gap year While she was in South Africa, Paige met the founder of Grace Klein Community, a non-profit that uses its resources to spark biblical restoration in families, communities, and individuals After hearing this, she mentioned that her sister might be interested in working with them
Based in Birmingham, Grace Klein Community adopts several initiatives to help achieve its mission Its flagship initiative, named “FeedBHM”, centers around rescuing good food from landfills to redistribute in the community
This initiative addre America: food insecu
United States is food increases to 1 in 4 ind 2 6 million pounds of over 617,000 peop companies like Trade Fil-A, Nothing Bundt C ensure that no goo provides support to clothing, household g
For Grace, the work GKC’s Sustainability range from waste ma coordinating busines At the heart of their where Jesus feeds th collect the excess
While the individual work Grace does for GKC is very mpactful, it is the overall community in Birmingham that uly reflects the mission of the organization In the fall of 024, Grace lived with several other believers, hoping to mulate the early church detailed in Acts 4:32-35 They rayed, cried, rejoiced, and laughed together They nvited everyone into their home because everyone is nvited into the kingdom of God This somewhat ntraditional living arrangement enriched Grace’s nderstanding of church Although she attends various unday morning services with her friends, she has found that “church” extends beyond a weekly service and is often found in daily experiences with a community of believers
Grace considers herself incredibly lucky to have been led by Christ to Grace Klein Community She urges others to “pray for Jesus to open your eyes to Him and open your hearts to the people around you ”
Follow the unfolding Jesus stories on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn @GraceKlein Community
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"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so
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that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God"
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TThirty-six members of the Class of 1984 gathered over the weekend to celebrate 40 years since they turned their tassels on the Ambassador Gym stage They were especially excited to have nine former teachers join them for their campus tour Below from left: Sue Crouse, Barb Thierry, Avie Carlisle, (back row) John Elder, Steve Doyle, Gary King, Jim Bryan, Wendy (Lazenby) Walker, and Juli Davenport What a beautiful legacy from these Godly mentors!
August 16 - 17, 2024
TThe Class of 2004 enjoyed a great weekend of laughter and catching up in August 2024 They were delighted to have former teachers Donna Robison and Debbie Carter join them for their campus tour! As one of the last classes to leave NCS before the major expansion of the high school, some were seeing the new building for the first time
TThe Class of 1975 gathered in August to reminisce about their time at Norfolk Christian 50 years ago! After dinner at Orapax on Friday, the group visited the Upper School campus on Saturday morning and confirmed that almost everything has changed since they left NCS Other than the Ambassador Gym, many had never seen the places they walked through The weekend ended with a lovely dinner at the home of Donna (Latsko) Robison on Saturday night It was a wonderful way to celebrate friendship over five decades!
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August 8 - 9, 2025
TThe Class of the new millennium gathered in August to mark a quarter century since their graduation from Norfolk Christian Joy and laughter filled the hallways during their campus tour as if it had been yesterday They were especially happy to have six former teachers join them throughout the weekend: Sue Crouse, Anita Parker, Nancy Rook, Rich Rose, Steve Doyle, and Sue Royster
TThe Alumni Tent was full on this beautiful evening, as alumni families, parents and grandparents enjoyed reminiscing and feasting on an Italian dinner The conversations lingered until long after dark!
IIt was the largest group of alumni golfers ever at the 2025 JEC, with 33 NCS grads hitting the green for the day Representing Classes from 1973 through 2024, this group of Ambassadors hailed from six decades!
It was a gorgeous day for the 2024 homecoming pep rally, annual powder puff competition, tailgating, and football game The parking lot and field were filled with Ambassador spirit for our favorite event of the year!
IIn February, Mr McCleese and Ms Sandwell set out to visit our college alumni on their campuses in western Virginia In a whirlwind two-day trip, they got to check in with more than 30 NCS alumni at UVA, JMU, Liberty, and Virginia Tech
Ms Hilliard, Mr Gispert, and two dozen juniors also joined the trip to visit college campuses as they prepare to make big decisions in the coming year
If you’ve seen anything NCS has produced this year, you know how much we love this perfect photo of Norfolk Lower School student Theo Dickinson, walking into school through the fanfare of Back-to-School Bash day 2024 We’re not sure we can ever top it Special thanks to Lily Strickland for capturing the moment, and thanks to Theo for representing Norfolk Christian so well all year!
255 Thole Street Norfolk, VA 23505
norfolkchristian.org
