Pantherbeat Spring/Summer 2025 by Parish Episcopal School

GO DEEP WITH NEW DIPLOMA ENDORSEMENT PROGRAMS

Parish introduces more opportunities for students to explore their passions.

Parish Online parish.org

4x World Champions

@parishrover had another successful landing in Huntsville, AL, by winning the High School Division of NASA’s Human Exploration Rover Challenge.

https://www.instagram.com/p/ DIXeQ5zsuj2/

We’re talking about playoffs! @parishsoftball had a successful season that led them to the playoffs.

Photo courtesy of Brandi Aguam https://shorturl.at/WAFmS

New Addition:

A Welcoming Chapel

@midwaychaplainparish welcomes many guest homilists including Mrs. Greeling who spoke to LS students about processing feelings of jealousy and envy.

@belongingatparish

https://bit.ly/3ZzL7ZN

8th Grade in Washington D.C.

Parish 8th graders took their annual trip to Washington D.C. which included the honor for four of them to participate in laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider.

@parishlife_ms

https://bit.ly/3Ffy09n

Dance Fever!

The 13th Annual Parish Dance Performance showcased our youngest dancers all the way to our graduating seniors.



https://bit.ly/43IJ347

Running for the Mettle

@parish.track showed off their individual and team talents at the Parish Relays.

https://bit.ly/4kqHUni

Reading Buddies!

The 6th grade Holt advisory read to the students at Cigarroa Elementary school and celebrated the last visit of the year to the school with books and popsicles!

#parishserves #parishmsmagic

https://bit.ly/3Z1nI3f

Parish Abroad Family Travel

Parish Abroad is an educational program designed to enhance global competency in Parish students through intentional and impactful travel, equipping them with the skills for critical, ethical and global thinking.

When Parish unveiled its 2026 Abroad travel opportunities this past spring, a new, unexpected and exciting offering was included – Family Travel ! Recommended for students age 8+ and their parents/guardians, this multi-generational adventure allows both students and parents to learn together, immerse themselves in a new culture, connect with new people and see the world through a broader lens.

In June 2026, participating families will embark on their own epic journey to Athens & the Aegean. They’ll tour the Acropolis, explore the oracle at Delphi, find joy in Greek dance lessons, board a cruise ship and visit Mykonos, Crete and more.

To learn more about Parish Abroad family travel, visit parishplus.org/the-academy/ parish-abroad

Parish Instagram

Vidigami

Go deep with new Diploma Endorsement Programs

Parish introduces more opportunities for students to explore their passions

Beginning with the graduates of Class of 2015, for many years, Parish Episcopal School students have had the option to pursue specialized diploma endorsements in Academy of Global Studies (AGS) and Leadership Institute (LI), programs that allow students to delve deeply into the humanities and develop their leadership skills. Expanding its offerings to create a well-rounded set of options, this past spring, the School introduced two new diploma endorsements – one with an Arts focus and another with a STEM emphasis. These additions allow Upper School students, regardless of their interests, the opportunity to explore a path aligned with their passions.

“We are excited about the opportunities these endorsements offer our students to discover and cultivate their passions,” stated Andrew Jennings, Head of Upper School, in his January letter to the community.

When AGS and LI were established in 2011 and 2012, respectively, it was hard to predict the magnitude of the impact the programs would have on its participants and others in the community, near and far. From launching healthcare-based, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in support of populations on the other side of the globe to focused leadership education to help younger generations better understand current issues, Parish students laid a strong foundation for launching the new Arts and STEM endorsement programs.

Recent Class of 2025 graduates, Jade Palmer and Jake McDonald, reflected on their Leadership Institute experiences:

“I got to experience failure and success more than I expected with this program, which has helped me grow more than I could have imagined,” said Jade.

“I am extremely prepared for the next steps as I know how to make cold calls, network, and drive my goals and plans into action.”

Jake reflected on his Leadership Institute experience where he developed a program Talk To Me, addressing the need for and a plan to implement more mental health training for Parish advisors. “I didn’t expect to get as much experience building connections with professionals . . . I connected with multiple individuals that taught me not only the content I needed, but also general advice. It has helped me grow confidence in my leadership skills, allowing me to take on bigger roles and responsibilities in all that I’m involved in.”

As the inaugural members of the STEM and Arts diploma endorsement cohorts step onto campus this fall, there’s no doubt they will be filled with anticipation, and maybe even a bit of nerves as they take on new challenges.

“Learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable and be open to it,” advised Jade “. . . don't be scared because, in the end, the progress and journey are more important than the product.”

So, what are members of the Class of 2029 cohort looking forward to?

“My goal is to become more advanced in coding, learn more and try out new things. I think the program will not only teach me a lot but also help me get into college, where I will try to study computer science,” said Sasha Kassem ’29.

Of course, the Parish diploma itself, without an endorsement, represents a rigorous college preparatory education, designed to challenge students and prepare them for the future. Are you interested in global economics? You can still pursue that interest, without pursuing AGS. Take a Government & Economics class, and maybe even couple it with an AP Modern World History class. A vocalist can still pursue a deeper musical path at Parish without applying for an Arts diploma endorsement. A rising 9th grader who is interested in exploring the world of engineering can still apply for the Rover team without committing to a STEM diploma endorsement. Are you passionate about service leadership? Service and leadership opportunities abound at Parish without being a member of Leadership Institute. Parish is brimming with possibilities for all these things, and more.

“While we support students who consider pursuing one of the four endorsements, we understand that this path may not be for everyone," explained Jennings. “Our goal remains clear: to provide a balanced and fulfilling Upper School experience that allows students to thrive academically while participating fully in the co-curricular opportunities that are so vital to their development.”

With this philosophy in mind, the School’s administration is confident that every Parish student – whether they choose one of these specialized programs or opt for the traditional Parish diploma – can find their path and benefit from a robust and balanced educational journey.

(Continues on page 4)

Parish Feature Story (continued

from page 3)

MORE ABOUT PARISH’S DIPLOMA ENDORSEMENT PROGRAMS

Academy of Global Studies (AGS)

Established in 2011, the AGS diploma endorsement honors students who have explored and engaged with the complex issues shaping our interconnected world. AGS emphasizes academic research and writing, critical thinking, cultural awareness and a deep understanding of global issues. Students pursuing the AGS endorsement participate in unique opportunities like simulations, debates and field experiences. These components, along with required coursework and capstone project, prepares students not only for academic success but also for lives of informed global citizenship.

Leadership Institute (LI)

For students who wish to hone their leadership skills and make an impact in their communities, the LI diploma endorsement program, established in 2012, offers a structured yet dynamic pathway. Grounded in the principles of ethical leadership, collaboration and service, the program includes coursework in leadership theory, public speaking and project management. LI students engage in real-world leadership experiences, including internships and mentorship opportunities, as they complete a culminating project that demonstrates their ability to lead with vision and purpose. The LI diploma endorsement recognizes the next generation of leaders who are prepared to inspire and innovate.

Arts Endorsement

The new Arts diploma endorsement celebrates creativity and personal expression, recognizing students who have committed to an in-depth exploration of the visual and performing arts. Through a combination of foundational courses and advanced electives, students build technical skills while exploring their individual artistic voices. Performance opportunities, exhibitions and portfolio development are integral to the program, which culminates in a capstone project that highlights each student’s artistic journey. This endorsement recognizes the vital role of the arts in education and empowers students to communicate and connect with the world through their creativity.

STEM Endorsement

The new STEM diploma endorsement recognizes students who have dedicated themselves to applied problem solving in STEM fields over their Upper School careers. Students in this endorsement program engage in rigorous coursework in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, complemented by hands-on projects and collaborative learning experiences. The program includes opportunities to apply computational thinking, participate in robotics or engineering design, and explore advanced topics in STEM fields. The capstone project focuses on human-centered design and innovation, culminating in a scientific presentation. This endorsement equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in STEM-related fields and beyond.

Read more about AGS diploma endorsement program requirements

Read more about LI diploma endorsement program requirements

Read more about Arts diploma endorsement program requirements

Read more about STEM diploma endorsement program requirements

2025 Parish Gala - Big and Bright

Parish Gala, the School’s second largest fundraising event, once again lit up the night with unforgettable fun and fellowship. This year’s theme, Big and Bright – Deep in the Heart of Parish, set the tone for a dazzling evening where the community came together to celebrate and support our school in true Texas style. Guests enjoyed an evening full of energy and entertainment, from lively line dancing and a dynamic DJ to exciting casino games and personalized cowboy hats. This year’s event also included a very exciting raffle prize – free Parish tuition for the 2025-2026 school year!

Thank you to all who attended, donated, sponsored and volunteered to help with this important event for the School. We’re excited to announce that next year’s Parish Gala will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Gilley’s Dallas. More details to come this fall!

Ask Pete – Why Rosettes?

While they have a strong presence and rich history in Texas, drill teams span across the United States and the world. In 2011, a group of Parish senior girls and a couple of inspired moms thought it was time that Parish Panthers join the ranks of some of the best precision performers in the state, and so the Rosettes were born. Dancing at studios across the metroplex, the first Rosettes members had a desire to bring their love of dance to their school.

“The senior girls truly were the originators and without much support they launched that first team,” recalled Andrea Mayfield, Parish alumni parent (Elizabeth ’15, Katie ’18). “They were scrappy, and so talented that they had to be noticed!”

Leading the first squad were Co-captains Kendall Healy ’12 and Arden Johnston ’12, and First Lieutenant Elianah Gorin ’12.

Gorin recalls wearing football jerseys as part of their uniforms for that first Friday Night Lights performance in fall 2011. “I can still remember the excitement as we were getting ready,” she said. “It was such a fun evening, with the football team, the cheerleaders and the fans, but the best part was the connections and bond that we developed with the younger Rosettes!”

While the team was started by seniors, the vast majority of members were freshmen. With such a grade-level gap, the girls weren’t really that acquainted with one another. The senior leaders decided to form big sis/lil sis groupings to get to know each other.

“I wouldn’t have expected that we would form such strong bonds, but we did,” said Gorin. “It was so special to get to mentor the younger girls, leaving our mark, but also forming those friendships that we got to return to even after we left for college.”

As the Rosettes have grown to include more students, with the 2025-26 team having 21 members, the big sis/lil sis approach has expanded as well with small squads, or families if you will, that include multiple girls from various grade-levels.

After that first year, Mayfield and fellow Rosettes mom Betty Bowman (Christina ’13, Brooke ’15, Matthew ’18) mounted their multi-year work to truly anchor Parish’s first drill team into the School’s foundation. From bedazzling team uniforms in the Bowmans’ home to rallying school support, these ladies embodied what it means to be a “Team Mom.”

“Watching the effort build was so exciting,” exclaimed Andrea. “Most importantly, the rigor of the Drill Team program in those early years taught amazing life lessons – work hard, play hard, be on time, respect each other, respect your coach. All the good stuff!”

Parish Rosettes Drill Team had 14 original members who were responsible for setting a high standard and a strong foundation that has ultimately led to the team’s success over the years.

But, why the name “Rosettes”?

A rosette is a rose-like marking on the fur and skin of some animals, and all panthers have them. Black panthers, like our very own Pete Panther mascot, also have rosettes. While they are much harder to see because of the darkness of the fur, in the right light, you can catch a glimpse of the shimmery, sleek patterns. This is where the Rosettes name originated as the drill team began building a list of naming ideas. In some animals, rosette markings can appear as a “paw print rosette,” which is when the marking looks like a paw print with a center pad and surrounding pads in a darker shade. While this is not the case for panthers, the latter description is often mistaken in Parish lore as the Rosettes being named after a panther’s paw, which is not the team’s name origin.

The team started with a list of more than 15 options, and with community support, the members unanimously voted for "Rosettes" as the Parish Drill Team name.

Much like the shimmer of a black panther’s spots, it’s exciting to watch our drill team’s sparkling magic during Friday night lights or at the annual Rosettes Revue. The Rosettes have evolved over the years from that first group that performed in football jerseys. With each new squad and each new member, the team is infused with a little extra. They’ve won countless awards at competitions; they have their own showcase every year; they teach the younger generation of Rosettes through mini clinic with our Lower School students; and they bring new routines and fresh ideas time and again! Now, they’d like to bring another fresh idea to the community – a new Rosettes logo. As they ready themselves for a milestone anniversary to celebrate 15 years in fall 2026, they’re once again coming to the Parish Panther community for help. Rosettes would like to hear and/or see your ideas for a refreshed brand mark – something that speaks to the strong foundation of the team, the energy they bring to every event and the future that awaits them!

Photo caption: 2011-2012 Rosettes (left to right) Sarah Weprin ’15, Lauren Walley ’15, Haley Bush ’15, Elizabeth Mayfield ’15, Caroline Mitchell ’14, Kendall Healy ’12 (Co-captain), Elianah Gorin ’12 (First Lieutenant), Arden Johnston ’12 (Co-captain), Connor Sprague ’12, Marcella Hodges ’15, Brooke Bowman ’15, Kirsten Jackson ’15, Gillian Colvin ’15, Jordan Portnoy

SUBMIT YOUR IDEA

Whether you’re an alumna Rosette, a current student or parent, a dance or drill team enthusiast, or a future Rosette, we want to hear from you! Use the QR code to share your ideas and/or art submissions for the next Rosettes logo. All submission will be due by this year’s Homecoming, October 17, 2025. The refreshed artwork will be unveiled prior to the team’s 15-year anniversary in fall 2026.

Nauslar Distinguished Service Awards

Established in 2018 by Terri and Dennis Nauslar, the Nauslar Distinguished Service Award honors and recognizes full-time faculty and staff members for distinguished service that embodies the mission of Parish Episcopal School. Recipients have demonstrated a commitment to excellence characterized by a nurturing spirit and evident care for students and the Parish community, and an alignment with our established criterion for professional excellence. Following are the 2025 recipients of the Nauslar Distinguished Service Award:

Kathryn Baird, Lower School Learning Specialist/CALT

A creative and thoughtful strategist, Kathryn Baird has devoted her career to teaching and supporting students with learning differences. She brings great energy into her learning space, relates well to her students and is always willing to create new opportunities and help develop programming that best supports the individual needs of the learners in her care. As one parent shared, “Kathryn clearly demonstrates genuine compassion and a passion for helping every student she works with. . . . As a result, [our child] is happier, more confident and has made significant strides in areas that have been major challenges. Kathryn truly exemplifies what it means to ‘demonstrate a commitment to excellence characterized by a nurturing spirit and evident care for students and the Parish community.’ While there are many outstanding educators at Parish, we can’t think of anyone this year who embodies that statement more fully than Kathryn.”

Take a mathematician, throw in a dash of game stat analyst, mix it with some cheerleader and an advisor with a lot of heart, and you get Julie Kidder! As one parent expressed, “[She] is one of those rare educators whose quiet yet powerful influence shapes the lives of her students and helps define the very culture of Parish Episcopal School. Her unwavering dedication, genuine compassion and steadfast integrity are evident in every interaction . . . witnessing this kind of teaching – and this kind of heart – is nothing short of extraordinary.” Whether she’s helping a student find their individual way academically, mentoring an advisee who’s struggling emotionally or setting high expectations for herself and her department, Julie is always thoughtful and leads in her role with integrity. One colleague said, “Her work is not only distinguished by its quality, but by the spirit in which it is offered – a spirit that uplifts students and teachers alike and overall strengthens our school community. She truly makes Parish a better place.”

A fixture of the Parish community, Megan Graham “demonstrates time and again her commitment to excellence characterized by a nurturing and supportive spirit.” From guiding faculty through the Parish Inspire annual review and assessment process to walking alongside Upper School students, particularly seniors, as they make their final steps toward graduation through the Parish Bridge program, Megan’s care and support is ever present. As a mentor and confidante, Megan’s intense efforts provide seniors with real-life skills – networking, personal finance, basic car repair, cooking, etc. – and she has even helped a student who fell prey to a scam. Those who nominated Megan for this award noted that “She is a highly adept problems solver and pivots when students face challenges…;” “[She] is a close mentor and confidante for our students…;” and that “Her observations and suggestions are always welcome.”

Vicki

Assistant to Head of Middle School

After 20 years of meaningful impact –working with three Middle School division heads, three student life assistants, three academic assistants – Vicki Koch continues to bring joy and humor to the Middle School every single day. Her care and empathy for colleagues and students is central to the long-lasting relationships that she has built year after year, with many students returning to visit her even after they’ve entered Upper School or graduated. As one nomination articulated, “She is invested in their successes and helps them manage the days when success may be fleeting. Kindness, politeness and a cheery spirit are hallmarks of Vicki's personality. She exemplifies all that we strive to be at Parish . . .” Another continued, “She has earned the admiration of our entire community . . . In some ways, she’s a hidden gem, but to those who work closely with her, she shines brightly.”

Megan Graham, CCLP Director of Parish Bridge & Director of Parish Inspire

Koch,

Julie Kidder, Upper School Mathematics

Class of 2023 Excellence in Leadership Award

Established in 2020 by an anonymous donor and endowed by the Class of 2023 Senior Gift, the Class of 2023 Excellence in Leadership Award honors and recognizes full-time faculty and staff members who successfully demonstrate Parish Episcopal School’s core values of Wisdom, Honor and Service as well as exceptional leadership skills in the following areas: a deep connection to the community; the propensity for integrity, courage, humility and fortitude as a leader; risk taking and tenacity; and the ability to think creatively and go the extra mile.

Tracey Kee, Assistant Athletic Director & Head Softball Coach

When you enter Panther Gym or walk through the Winspear Sports Complex Gateway to the outdoor fields to watch a game, you’re likely met with a smile and a quiet, yet strong, presence in Tracey Kee as she looks after the well-being of our athletes, our competitors, our officials and our community. Whether she’s on the sidelines observing or in the dugout calling the plays, the same dedication she puts into our athletic competitions is infused in her daily leadership on campus.

Since joining Parish in 2022, not only has Tracey transformed the PE department and curriculum for PreK through 8th grade students, but she has been a strong advocate and leader for our athletes. She has served on committees in support of elevating girls’ sports as well as defining Lower School youth sports at Parish. She revitalized the softball program, bringing it back from the brink of extinction to finishing second in the district with a dynamic team. She has worked tirelessly to strengthen the Panther athletic community through her encouragement and compassion. Tracey’s integrity, positivity and thoughtfulness were recurring themes throughout the nominations for this award, but one nomination sums it up nicely with the following: “She always makes time for her teachers, her coaches and her athletes. Her character is of the strongest integrity and humility; she defers her personal success to her teams, whether it's her PE teaching team or her athletes. She truly goes the extra mile in everything that she does and represents Parish in the most respectable way I've ever known. She is most deserving of this [Class of 2023] Excellence in Leadership Award.”

Milestone Years of Service

Wall of Service

The Wall of Service is dedicated to those that have served for 20 or more years at Parish. This year, the School has four faculty and staff members recognized as new additions to the Wall of Service, and two existing members celebrating their 30 year anniversary with the School. Thank you to each of these individuals for their many years of dedication to Parish

Nancy Derrick Kindergarten Teaching Assistant

Sherie Skillern

Lucy Henard Lower School Instructional Technology Specialist

Vicki Koch Assistant to Head of Middle School

Craig Savage Upper School Science, and Director of Soccer & Varsity Boys Soccer Head Coach

Jenny

Sonja

Parent Service Spotlights

Bondy-Lee: Alex Chalfant (Sloan ’34, Graham ‘37)

Alex Chalfant is the 2024-25 recipient of the Bondy-Lee award, named in honor of Andrea Lee and Gabriella Bondy (the first two chairwomen of the Parish Day School (PDS) Mothers’ Club – now the Parents’ Association).

As Dr. Matt Rush announced Alex at a special Hillcrest chapel service in May, he shared with those in attendance, including our Hillcrest students, the many ways that Alex has served the Parish community as well as the sentiments that other parents, faculty and staff bestowed.

“Alex is everywhere,” said Dr. Rush. “He is ever-present and super service-minded.”

Alex and his wife Liz have been a part of the Parish community for the past three years. From the beginning, Alex jumped in to immerse himself in the day-to-day of his children’s school. He is a frequent cafeteria volunteer, serving both at Hillcrest and Midway. He has served on the Athletic Booster Club as the Panther Pack/LS Liaison, connecting families to athletics from membership drives and golf tournament sponsorship solicitations to getting Panther Pack kids hyped up to run onto the field and cheer on athletes at Friday night football games. He is a second-year member of The Grove where he helps spread the Parish story by greeting and speaking to prospective families as they make their way through the admission process. He has also coached several sports in support of the Lower School fellowship teams.

As one community member reflected, “His love and support for Parish is consistent and is supported by an infectious energy and a warmth that’s obvious the first time you meet him. With The Grove, he is committed to helping future families learn about Parish via his family’s experiences but also in educating himself on what else the School has to offer in order to support so many on their journey here.”

Evidence of that sentiment is woven through all the comments received during the nomination process. One parent wrote, “He was one of the first parents I met here at Parish, he welcomed me to the Parish Community. Always willing to help with anything related to the School - and he’s a great father and coach.” Another parent continued “. . . As a parent, I was impressed not only with how thoughtful he was with each child during practices and games (he had an enthusiastic and supportive coaching style), but how he considered the parents as well – he sent personal emails to parents when their child showed effort, improvement or character. It was beyond what I’ve seen other “dad coaches” do, and it made for a really fun season for the kids and parents.”

It is clear, Alex Chalfant has a servant’s heart and is so deserving of this award. Join us in thanking him for all he has done and continues to do for the Parish community!

During the 1985-1986 school year, the Bondy-Lee Award was established in honor of the first two co-chairwomen of the Mothers' Club, Gabriella Bondy and Andrea Lee. This award is presented each year to the most outstanding parent volunteer for the Lower School. This honorary award reflects the faculty and staff‘s appreciation for a parent volunteer for the Lower School. This is a parent volunteer whose time and effort have been focused on our students. This parent has encouraged volunteering, supported the goals of the School, and promoted good will. In addition, this parent has exhibited a good relationship with the children, the faculty, the staff, and the other parents. Some examples of the services completed by previous nominees are fellowship coordinators, lunchroom volunteers, Parents’ Association event chairs and co-chairs, library volunteers, art volunteers, Gala Committee members, helping with special events, etc.

Martha Johnston Legacy Award:

Jody Swartzwelder (Abbey ’21 and Kate ’25)

Recognized at the Class of 2025 Senior Dinner, this year’s Martha Johnston Legacy Award recipient is not a stranger to many in the Parish community. Whether you’ve been here for one year or 15 years, you likely know or have at least met Jody Swartzwelder PDS ‘84 (Abbey ’21 and Kate ’25), a volunteer of all volunteers who embodies the very “selfless service” that this award represents.

Jody served on the Parents’ Association Executive Board, including during her presidency, from 2010 –2016, and was a Bondy-Lee Award recipient in 2009. She served on the Board of Trustees Trusteeship Committee (2012-13) and received the School’s Distinguished Service Award in 2023. She has served on Gala committee, held leadership positions for The Arts People Board as President (2021-2022) and Membership Chair (2019-2021), and has served on Head of School Council (2022-2024) and Senior Committee (2021 & Co-Chair in 2025). She has been a Parent Ambassador, Brownie Troop Leader and dedicated Rosette and theatre mom, and her family has welcomed numerous new families while serving as a Buddy Family. She has helped raise important dollars for the School by serving the Parish Fund as a grade-level caller for many years, New Family Chair (2015-16) and Upper School Chair (2017-2018).

While Jody gives her personal time to serve various organizations and causes, it’s important to note that part of her service is in helping others serve as well. For instance, during Parish’s 50th Anniversary, she helped coordinate a Day of Service which brought together 350+ Parish volunteers – students, parents, faculty and alumni – for a day of education-focused service projects on our campus and on the campuses of Anne Frank, Cigarroa and Joe May Elementary Schools.

Outside of Parish, Jody brings people together in support of Women of St. Michaels, United to Learn and Dec My Room. And, of course, she is the lead wrangler for the Swartzwelder household, where she instills her servant nature into her own children who have followed in their mother’s footsteps by giving of their time and talents to various causes, on and off campus.

As her husband Grant noted, the Swartzwelders are so proud of Jody and appreciate the recognition of all her volunteer work. With regard to the countless hours that Jody has poured into organizations and people, Grant laughingly and admiringly added, “I have said that if she could have only been paid $5/hour for her volunteer work, I would have been able to retire years ago.”

We too are very proud of Jody and are fortunate to have her heart and talent infused into the very fabric of our community. Her enthusiasm for Parish is immeasurable and we thank her for her many years of dedication to our school, especially to the students who benefit today and to the ones who will benefit for many years to come because of her efforts along the way!

Martha Johnston Legacy Award is given annually to a senior parent who has exemplified Martha’s (Natalie ‘13, Sam ‘15 and Joe ’17) selfless service and boundless spirit over an extended period of time.

(Continues on page 10)

Parent Service Spotlights (continued from

Parents’ Association Crown Award: Casey Gross (Cameron ’31, Margaret ’34)

Casey Gross was named this year’s Parents’ Association (PA) Crown Award winner. Casey, who has served on the PA Executive Board as the Vice President of Faculty & Staff Appreciation for the past two years, was recognized in May by PA President BJ Antweil (Olivia ’32).

In his presentation, BJ reminded those in attendance that the role of the PA is to build and foster community - build fellowship amongst the grades, support faculty and fundraise. “For the past two years, one third of the PA function, to support teachers, has rested solely on the shoulders of Casey Gross,” said BJ. “And she has done each event beautifully, always with a smile on her face, never frazzled and never asking for help - which she should!”

Fittingly enough, the day Casey received her award, she was in the midst of setting up for the faculty & staff appreciation luncheon. Lisa Macaraeg, PA Board Advisor, had to draw her away for five minutes – without spoiling the surprise – so she could be present for the celebration.

page 9)

BJ shared with the group that a large part of the joy he got during his time as President was the in-person “thanks” and many thank you notes from the faculty. “ . . . all to say how much they love the PA, how we take such good care of them, and that has been almost exclusively Casey. Big kudos to her and congrats on winning this year’s Crown Award!”

The Crown Award is given by the Parents’ Association (PA) President to a volunteer PA Executive Board member who has gone above and beyond during the current school year and shown great leadership to their volunteer cohort and support to the Parish community.

Meet our New Alumni Board Members

➊ Taryn de Bruyn ‘15: Taryn is a Communications Manager at Cisco Systems, a Fortune 100 technology company. She works in Global Communications, primarily focused on content creation and management for their Digital Communications team. Taryn graduated from Parish in 2015, then Santa Clara University in 2019 with a degree in Communications and Political Science. In her free time, she loves to read, play pickleball, spend time with friends and family, and travel.

➋ Jeff Button ‘08: Jeff is a Parish Lifer who was a member of the School’s first football team and second Upper School graduating class. He attended The University of Texas at San Antonio where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Kinesiology, Health and Political Science. He earned a Master of Public Health in 2019 and is currently employed by Texas Health Resources’ Community Impact team where he serves as a Program Manager, overseeing grant-funded public health programs in Collin County. He is a member of the American Public Health Association and has a passion for positively impacting the lives of other people. A long-time member of the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, Jeff was recently elected as a Diocesan Convention Delegate. In his free time, Jeff enjoys watching sports, movies, exercising, reading, traveling and spending time with friends and family.

➌ Cody Miller ‘11: Cody was born and raised in Dallas and began his journey at Parish in PreK – proudly making him a Parish Lifer. After graduating, he attended Texas Christian University where he studied entrepreneurship and finance, and most importantly, met his wife Meryl. Cody is a CFA charterholder and serves as Director of Research at a hedge fund, supporting investment strategy and equity analysis. He and Meryl live in East Dallas with their daughter Ruby who turns two in July. Outside of work, Cody enjoys traveling to new destinations, cycling around White Rock Lake, playing golf and spending time with his family.