PARISH EPISCOPAL SCHOOL NEWS
SUMMER 2018
Special thanks to the army of volunteers who plan, organize and execute events on campus. > Story on page 3
Class of 2017 presents ParishBridge projects during May 23 expo. Seniors, exposed to professional experience, academic course work, seminars and an online class, focused on everything from social media and teaching, to real estate, science and fundraising. ď‚„https://vimeo.com/272454799
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Parish Online
parishepiscopal.org Senior Sendoff at Hillcrest Our youngest friends say goodbye to our oldest students at Hillcrest. https://www.facebook.com/parishepiscopal/videos/10157808394881151/
Parish Facebook
Spring Football Classic The Class of ’21 won the Upper School competition at Gloria H. Snyder Stadium. https://www.facebook.com/parishepiscopal/videos/10157797573116151/
“Math is beautiful.” The Upper School math teacher finds beauty in numbers and pure joy in helping students understand the complexities of arithmetic. Video by Rebekah Coleman ‘18
Dak Prescott Visits with Athletic Captains Cowboys’ QB stopped by Parish to talk about leadership with our studentathletes. https://www.instagram.com/p/BiK3J8sBAJB
Parish Instagram
ParishAbroad in Belize, Peru and Alaska This summer, students in ParishAbroad experienced firsthand being members of a complex, global society. https://www.instagram.com/p/BjqJakVn9UM
https://vimeo.com/271318191
Essential Standards Upper School musicians showcase their talents during a spring concert. https://www.instagram.com/p/Binhw34hUDC
From My Angle 3rd Grade Rocket Launch This is a tradition that blends STEM with classroom lessons on rocketry and space at Parish Episcopal School. Teacher Grace Clancy tells us more.
Mr. Monaco talks with author Julie Lythcott-Haims about how to make our 18 year-olds as happy as our eight year-olds. https://vimeo.com/264672399
Parish Vimeo
“We”-search 5th graders in Mrs. Leach’s Humanities class work in groups to research topics. https://twitter.com/5thgradehum/status/985915222669119488
@5thgradehum
https://vimeo.com/271511830
STEM Buddies 2nd graders help their PreK 2 buddies in Beasley STEM Center. https://twitter.com/KatyKhenderson/status/998590313970196480
@katykhenderson
Parish says farewell to Wall of Service retirees:
Karen O’Rear, Becky Maher and Mollie Farester It takes a certain amount of energy to work in education any day of the week, but it takes an extraordinary amount to teach for more than 30 years. Karen O’Rear had been guiding students at Parish since 1981. Karen is the only faculty member to teach across all three divisions on both campuses – PreK, kindergarten, 5th grade, Upper School Community Service and Religion. She lights up any room with her enthusiasm and probably has more energy in her pinky finger than most adults do in a lifetime. “I loved all of my positions at Parish, but the community service role and 5th grade hold a special place in my heart,” said O’Rear. “Although they’ve changed some, I’m so proud of the community service projects and components that I helped start with Vicki Eastland [former Parish employee] that remain at Parish – North Texas Food Bank and the D.C. trip, just to name a few.” Karen’s career came full circle ending at Hillcrest teaching an especially spirited PreK 1 class during the 2017-18 school year. She leaves ready to tackle new projects in retirement. Karen has plans to travel to South Africa to volunteer with Happy Homes, a school outside of Johannesburg that is supported by the Church of
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the Transfiguration, Parish and the de Bruyn family [Parish alumni family and former members of the Board of Trustees]. She’ll also be spending more time with her family and grandchildren. Still, Karen admits that she’ll miss “a lot” about Parish. “The teachers and staff, seeing them and hearing about their children and grandchildren,” noted O’Rear. “I will miss the children - the hugs and smiles, their joy of learning something new, and their excitement when they do something for the first time after many, many attempts.” It’s hard to say goodbye to a place that you’ve called “home” and “family” for more than three decades, so don’t be surprised if you see this dynamo at Parish on occasion. Still, parting is such sweet sorrow.
“I am so blessed to have taught at Parish for so many years and worked with such incredible people- staff, teachers, students and parents. I thank Gloria Snyder and Dave Monaco for giving me the opportunity to teach students of all ages and to have faith in me to carry out Parish’s mission.”
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Pantherbeat Feature:
Thank You Very Much! Parish Episcopal School Honors Volunteers Community events and programs run smoothly at Parish Episcopal School thanks to faculty, staff and a team of dedicated volunteers. So many of our volunteers work tirelessly each and every week on big events such as Gala and Spooky Saturday, and programs like Buddy Families, teacher appreciation lunches, room parents, library helpers, and so much more. Thank you, dedicated volunteers! Parish wouldn’t be able to have its close knit community or demonstrate its Episcopal inclusivity and hospitality without the army of helpers who plan, organize and execute events on campus. Each year, Parish recognizes outstanding volunteers through various awards.
Parents’ Association Crown Award The President’s Crown Award is given by the Parents’ Association (PA) President to a member of the board who has gone above and beyond in their service to the School and the PA. This year, Jennifer Willis, mother of Taylor ’24 and Blake ’20, was given the award.
Bondy-Lee Award Each May, Parish Episcopal School presents the Bondy-Lee award to the most outstanding parent volunteer in Lower School. This year, the award was given to two dedicated parents: Alyson Jackson and Kerry Crombie. Alyson currently sits on the Board of Trustees; she also has served through the Buddy Family program, Fellowship Committee, The Arts People (TAP) and the Gala Committee where she took on the time-consuming task of the program layout and chaired silent auctions. The mother of three Parish students brings her engineering and organizational skills to any project and is always a reliable and energetic volunteer. The Parents’ Association (PA) describes her as a “treasure” and TAP calls her an invaluable part of the PARISHarts department. Kerry has been a constant source of support as a volunteer at Parish as well. She and her husband, Brent, have chaired the Athletic Booster Cub Club for the past two years. Additionally, she has served on the Gala Committee; given tours to prospective parents as a Parent Ambassador; held the position of 2nd Grade Captain for Parish Fund; donated her time and talents to her kids’ classrooms and pitched-in during other Parish events. Those who work with Kerry describe her as a “rock star” and “hard worker.” The Bondy-Lee Award, named in honor of Andrea Lee and Gabriella Bondy, was awarded on May 1.
“Jennifer has done a fabulous job as VP of Upper School Fellowship for the past few years,” said Cynthia Everitt, 2017-18 Parents’ Association president. “She stayed on top of the budgets and handled any problems quickly, effectively and kindly. She was always looking for ways to improve and help! She also co-chaired bingo for the past two years, helping to get it off the ground.” Jennifer’s extraordinary volunteer efforts extend to the annual Gala, and Middle and Upper School activities. If there’s something happening at Parish, Jennifer is probably there helping out. Asked why she’s always ready to volunteer: “It’s my way of giving back.”
Parish welcomes and appreciates all of its volunteers, no matter how big or small the role might be. The School could not operate to its fullest and bring to life the many great programs for our students and our families without the help of these dedicated individuals, so if you see one along the way, please, say “Thank you!”
Martha Johnston Award The Martha Johnston Award was introduced in 2017 in honor of Johnston’s years of volunteering. The award, named in her honor, goes to a senior parent who has had the most impact on Parish through their volunteerism and spirit. It is presented at the senior dinner each year. The 2018 recipient is Dee Velvin, Parish parent of three alumni, Andrew ’12, Sarah ’14 and Will ’18. Martha actually recruited Dee to get involved while handing out fliers in the carpool line in 2000. “Martha was so welcoming and inclusive, a perfect reflection of the Parish community,” said Dee. Since then, Dee has been a constant figure at Parish and has a long list of volunteerism. She has been a room mom; chaired numerous Gala committees, school luncheons and celebrations; chaired Annual Fund, Senior Committee and the 40th Celebration; and helped create the Lifer Luncheon, Senior Lounge and Panther Days. She choreographed the dance for the 40th celebration and would often dress head-to-toe in Parish red and blue. Although her youngest graduated from Parish this year, Dee will always remain special to the Parish community. “It was such an honor to be recognized with the Martha Johnston Award, even though I was embarrassed by the attention,” noted Dee. “All service experiences were rewarding and fun! We have made so many incredible friends along the way.” (Continues on page 4)
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Parish Feature Story (continued from page 3) Special Recognition to John Scully During the final 2017-18 Board of Trustees gathering in May, Parish paid special recognition to longtime board member and school supporter John Scully. The alumni parent of Sarah ’09, John ’11 and Laura ‘14 has guided Parish in a number of areas. As an attorney, John has served as an advisor and on numerous committees of the Board. His passion for football helped drive Parish to become a leader in the sport. He championed the start of the Panther team, coached Middle School football, supported the Athletic Booster Club and served as a mentor to many Parish student-athletes along the way. His wife Karen opened their home during many football team gatherings; some of those players became part of the Scully family. To show appreciation for his steadfast support, Parish unveiled Coach Scully’s Weight Room. The room is named in honor of John and the Scully family for their long-standing generosity and dedication as leaders, volunteers and advocates of Parish Episcopal School and Panther football. “I was shocked, surprised, overwhelmed; it was totally unexpected and absolutely unnecessary,” remarked John. “I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it. I’ve really enjoyed coaching all of these years at Parish. I’m sure no kid has ever gotten anything out of my coaching, but it’s meant the world to me and I’ve really appreciated all of the opportunities I’ve had.”
Introducing Parish’s 2018-19 Board of Trustees Tim Eller, Chair Andrea Mayfield, Vice Chair Allen Bell, Treasurer Trey Velvin, Secretary
Alyson Jackson Nash Lowrance Jay Madrid Bob Marshall Steven McDonald Kelsey McDonnough ‘o8 Michael Pegues Brad Phillips Randal Polka Kimberly Rich
Members Laura Baggett Laurel Brewster Carol Carrington Ron Denheyer Jason Devening Hollye Fisk Beth Gerwe Bill Griffin Michele Gough
Joyce Rogge Ameeth Sankaran Alex Sharma Warren White Nancy Ann Hunt, Emerita Allen Meyer, Emeritus
Ex-Officio Rev. Casey Shobe, Rector, The Church of the Transfiguration Dave Monaco, Allen Meyer Family Head of School Paul Sternweis, Senior Warden, The Church of the Transfiguration
Vice Chair of Parish’s Board of Trustees:
Meet Andrea Mayfield Andrea Mayfield grew up in the Episcopal Church, so she witnessed first-hand how a community could blossom under the consistent efforts of supporters and volunteers. “I was born when my father was in Seminary and I spent my infant years in a dorm in Cambridge, Massachusetts,” said Mayfield. “Growing up as a PK [Priest’s kid], I learned early on that organizations only thrive when members of that community contribute and share their time and their talents. Parish is a powerful example of this.” Mayfield has a personal stake in Parish; she is the parent of two alumnae, Elizabeth Mayfield ’15 and Katie Mayfield ’18, and has been on the Board of Trustees for six years. She is currently the Vice Chair and has plans to serve another three-year term. Previously, she served as the Trusteeship Committee Chair and Secretary of the Board. Additionally, as a member of Executive Committee, Mayfield serves as a thought partner to Dave Monaco and Board Chair Tim Eller as they consider issues and opportunities facing the School. Mayfield saw her chance to connect and contribute when Parish developed ParishLeads; that curiosity naturally led to an interest in the Board. As an executive coach and talent management professional, she has been able to examine the incredible talent
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in our School’s parent/grandparent community and help the Board blend an amazing collection of skill sets, perspectives and contributions. Mayfield considers it an honor to serve with “an amazing community of wise and compassionate people” and she consistently supports the School’s mission of Wisdom, Honor and Service. “Parish offers challenging academics while focusing on the development of the whole child and it does so with an innovative connectivity to our evolving society,” added Mayfield. “Since my eldest daughter joined Parish in 2007, I have observed that the unique Parish way develops confident and articulate students. I believe a confident, articulate student can accomplish anything he or she wants to and that is unbelievably special!” Mayfield holds a Bachelor of Arts from Dickinson College and a Master of Arts from the University of Maryland. She is the principal and co-founder of the ELI Group, a boutique firm that cultivates top talent through executive coaching and custom-designed leadership programs.
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Class Of 2018 Senior Gift:
Seniors & Their Legacy Take Flight Before their final walk across the stage at graduation, Class of 2018 students and families continued the tradition of making a Senior Gift. Since 1980, graduating classes have made a parting gesture of gratitude to the School, commemorating their time at Parish and leaving a legacy for future classes. Under the leadership of Senior Gift Chairs Andrea & Ron Denheyer and Dee & Trey Velvin, the Class of 2018 flew past its goal of raising $218,000 for the School’s Limitless campaign. With 87 percent of parents and 86 percent of students participating, the final gift totaled more than $383,000 to support the campaign for the Gene E. Phillips Activity Center and the future Performance & Community Center.
Celebrating the Senior Gift in the Class of 2018 Entryway (left to right): Dave Monaco, Allen Meyer Family Head of School, with Senior Gift Chairs Ron & Andrea Denheyer and Dee & Trey Velvin.
To celebrate this generous group donation, Parish added the new “Futures Have No Limits” art installation on the Midway campus, located at the entry between the Morris Family Lobby and the Phillips Activity Center. Going forward, this space will be known as the Class of 2018 Entryway, and will remind us of the heart and spirit of the students and families in this year’s graduating class. Fly high and fly far, but always come back to see us! Class of 2018 students personalized the “Futures Have No Limits” art installation with their signatures.
Interview:
Angela Horowitz
A Few Words from the Senior Gift Chairs:
Angela’s son Sam, Class of ’18, set the stage for his future during his years at Parish, discovering he has an eye for fashion, a flair for the creative and a heart for charitable causes. Sam will attend Parsons School of Design this fall.
Sam came to Parish in 5th grade. How did you know this was the right place for him? Sam is a unique kid. He’s a dreamer, and he loves fashion, the arts and performance. Parish always encouraged Sam to be Sam, and he thrived. It’s an environment where kids can explore and be exactly who they were born to be. It’s a warm, loving and inclusive place. That’s in its bones, in its people.
Sam has been in the limelight since his Bar Mitvah dance video went viral. How has he balanced school with amazing opportunities like being on The Ellen Show, interning at Stanley Korshak and producing charity fashion shows?
There is definitely a risk for a kid like Sam that academics come in second, but he always had excellent grades. He had to take the initiative and dialogue with his teachers. Plus, all the teachers emphasize study skills and a hard work ethic, which you need no matter what you ultimately do in life. That’s been a great lesson for Sam, because, trust me, as he’s produced webisodes and fashion shows, he’s learned first-hand that it isn’t all glamour. It’s a lot of really hard work behind the scenes.
You made a major gift to the Limitless campaign early on, as well as a major gift to the Senior Gift this year. What motivates you to invest in Parish?
Parish helped Sam lay the foundation to pursue his dreams, and I wanted to say thank you. I’m not sure where we’d be now if we’d been at a different school. And, I wanted to show Sam that you always give back to those who help you and to those less fortunate. Our family mission is to make the world a better place for all.
What will you miss most about Parish now that Sam has graduated?
I will miss the spirit and excitement on my child’s face when he comes home from school. I’ll miss the friends he’s made, and the friends that I’ve made. Parish has left a mark on us, a good mark, and we’ll work hard to keep that relationship going strong.
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Andrea & Ron Denheyer and Dee & Trey Velvin “I have so many cherished memories of Parish, it would be impossible to choose one. I love thinking back on the early years at the Hillcrest campus and being on campus for class parties, field trips, special events like Moms’ Visiting Days, Freaky Friday and Christmas pageants, and even lunch duty. In general, what we will miss most is the Parish community and its fellowship, which is so often referred to and mentioned, but is absolutely real.”
- Dee Velvin
“The Parish experience truly has no limits, with the countless programs offered and the encouragement by faculty to try new things – all of which helps each child grow and find something they are excited about. In today’s world of trying to build a résumé for college, the Parish experience truly builds quality, well-rounded individuals with the tools to pursue their own passions and interests.”
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- Ron Denheyer
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SUMMER 2018 | PAGE 6
Wall of Service Retirees story (continued from page 2) At the encouragement of fellow teachers, Becky Maher and Mollie Farester interviewed together at Parish Day School and were hired on the spot in 1988. They’ve been on the Hillcrest campus since then. For the first few years they taught PreK as a team and spent a couple of afternoons each week teaching “Fantastic Fun Factory” classes during aftercare. “A favorite was Captain Earth,” said Becky. “I think that Lindsey Ryan (current Parish teacher and one of our students) still has her cape from that adventure.” Becky moved from PreK to 2nd grade, served as director of summer programs before spending the last 10 years of her Parish career in the library.
creative “field trip” adventures with their little ones. The teachers watched Parish Day School go from the little church school on the corner to Parish Episcopal School serving students in PreK-12th grade. They’ve served under Gloria Snyder and Dave Monaco and enjoyed seeing some of their students come back to Parish as faculty and staff. “I taught Lauren Henderson and Lindsey Ryan at Parish,” noted Becky. “Mollie and I also had Jennifer Makins as a PreK student prior to coming to Parish. I remember all of these wonderful women as kind, smart, fun little girls.” Both Becky and Mollie say they will miss the children and starting each day with chapel. To them, Parish will always remain “family” and a place where they witnessed so many children, whom Becky refers to as “blessings beyond measure,” learn, grow and move on to the Midway campus. “They energize me and help me to see the world as full of hope,” said Becky. “The support that Parish offers to everyone is amazing,” added Mollie.
“I LOVED all of my experiences,” added Maher. “There were things about each that were magical to me!”
As they head into retirement, Mollie and Becky will remain friends but go their separate ways. Mollie plans to spend time with family, get caught up on home projects and plan family trips without checking the School calendar.
While Becky found her niche in the Library, Mollie moved into 1st grade and discovered it was her “absolute favorite.” She stayed there for the rest of her time at Parish.
“My first retirement plans are no alarm!” exclaimed Mollie. “I also plan to sub next year.”
“They start the year as ‘little’ kids and grow as learners and grow in their ability to make thoughtful and responsible choices in all areas,” said Mollie. “They head on to 2nd grade as ‘big’ kids.” Parish looked a little different when Mollie and Becky arrived on the Hillcrest campus. There was a wooded area where the Snyder building and parking lot are now; it provided fun opportunities for
Becky is packing up and moving to Georgetown, Texas to be closer to her two daughters and five grandchildren. Besides attending swim meets, baseball games and other grandkid activities, she plans to volunteer in a library, swim and do yoga.
“I have loved these decades at Parish and the children/friends here,” said Becky. “Winnie-thePooh said it perfectly: ‘How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.’”
Ask Pete What’s an Auxiliary Program at Parish?
auxiliary
[awg-zil-yuh-ree, -zil-uh-] adjective 1. providing supplementary or additional help and support noun 2. a person or thing providing supplementary or additional help and support
Parish Auxiliary programs are designed to enhance a student’s academic and/or extracurricular experience, develop a talent or explore a passion, and support parents during their time at Parish. Current auxiliary programs include ParishAbroad, ParishDrives, ParishEXTEND, ParishLab, ParishLink, Parish Summer, ParishVirtual and the PAWS Spirit Store. Each registration or purchase through an Auxiliary program makes a meaningful impact on both your child and the School as it helps fund teachers’ salaries, operational expenses, financial assistance and more.
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Parish Alumni Notes
Parish marked its 1000th graduate with the Class of 2018, so we decided to go back and find out what the School’s first graduate is up to more than a decade later.
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Parish Day School:
Alumni Spotlight:
Leslie Briggs ’07
PDS 1998
➊ Katie Keith was engaged July 17, 2017 to Gabe Mamola. They tied the
knot on June 2, 2018 at Saint Basil the Great Byzantine Catholic Church in Irving, TX. Fun fact – their engagement shoot took place on the Parish Day School campus!
PDS 1993
② Austin Lee currently lives in Houston, TX and works as an energy and
After starting at University of North Carolina, Leslie graduated from SMU in 2011 with a B.S. in economics with financial applications and a minor in business. She lives in Dallas and works with Door Texas Title, LLC. What do you remember about Parish graduation day in June 2007 and what is your memory of being the first to cross the stage? I remember realizing that week that I was going to be the first ever graduate and boy did it hit me. My thoughts were “don’t trip across the stage” because I NEVER wear heels. I remember how we all just looked at one another knowing that we may never talk to some of our classmates again. From time to time, I talk to old friends to catch up. However, I look back at that pictures of when we graduated with 46 students and I just couldn’t imagine graduating with any other group of kids.
finance lawyer for Bracewell LLP. He represents and counsels clients in the acquisition and divestiture of oil and gas properties. Bracewell partner had a lead role in the firm’s representation of Parsley Energy Inc. ➌ Sarah Spector’s son Asher Adam Spector decided to make his debut into this world on September 23, 2017 at 7:49 p.m. Sarah’s baby boy weighed in at 6 lbs 15 oz and 20.5 inches. Sarah says “he has been an absolute angel baby and is the sweetest snuggle bug and couldn’t be more in love!” PDS 1994
④ Becky Bristow Haas currently resides in Dallas and is the owner of
Becky Haas Interiors. ➎ Christina Mantzuranis Helwig and husband Carter Helwig welcomed twins Porter Christos & Hadleigh Grace to the world on April 16, 2018 at 2:50 p.m. & 2:51 p.m. Porter weighed 4 lbs, 2 oz & Hadleigh was 3 lbs, 15 oz. Christina says, “it’s a journey that one cannot explain, but worth every second to stare into their eyes, listen to every noise, touch that baby soft skin and worry about their every move! We are so in love!” PDS 1996
⑥ James Mantzuranis currently lives in Dallas, TX and serves as the Vice President of Investment Sales for Stream Realty.
Biggest accomplishment so far in your career or in college? 1) I was fortunate enough to play soccer at University of North Carolina and win a Division 1 National Championship my sophomore year. 2) The ability to graduate from SMU earning my bachelor’s degree and knowing that I can return to receive my master’s, which I hope to in the next year. Favorite Memories at Parish? . . . my best memories are the ones with the faculty and friends. We were so small then so I felt like I could go to each teacher on any given day and he or she would listen to me. [Also, a favorite memory] when I was playing basketball (I am not a basketball player I am a soccer player). I was told by the coach to go foul them and I went and fouled like I would if it was soccer. I then received a technical flagrant foul and everyone who knew me just sat there and laughed. Would you like to give a shout out to a former Parish faculty/ staff member? Dr. Hotz and Mrs. Clay both inspired me and taught me a lot growing up. Any advice to Parish Seniors or students? Enjoy every moment and tradition we have because before you know Parish will be in your past. I would suggest going to every event you can and enjoy the school pride that we have. The teachers are there for us, show them how much you appreciate everything they have done. I know I do not always tell my teachers but they taught me a lot and it was not just in the books, but how to be as a person. When I look back, my best times were all the crazy days we got to dress up, the rivalries between classes, the pep rallies and events.
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Parish Episcopal School: Class of 2007
➐ Jesse Hernandez & Katina Smallwood Hernandez met their freshman
year at Parish Episcopal School and built a true love upon years of learning and growing together. They leapt from a high school friendship to a relationship where they ended up tying the knot on April 21, 2018. The ceremony was held at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church with a reception following at the Texas Discovery Gardens.
Class of 2008
➑ Augusta Abene Bailey and Jeromy Bailey tied the knot on November 25, 2017 in Pottsboro, TX. The happy couple currently resides in Anaheim, California. ➒ Peter Antich attended the University of Dallas from 2008 - 2012. He has had a teaching fellowship at the University of Kentucky for the past five years. He will continue his teaching assignment in Kentucky this year and hopes to teach at a college or university in the near future. Peter has successfully defended his dissertation and thus earned a PhD in Philosophy. One of our first Parish Episcopal School alumni to receive their PhD!
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•• Whitney Keith and Mitch Paulus were engaged on January 20, 2018.
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⑩ Melissa Cole Griffing received her M.S. in counseling from Southern
Methodist University. She received her license to work as a play therapist and is in the works to build her play therapy program in the DFW area. ⓫ Alexandria Dumas said “yes!” to fiancé Ivan Olmedo on May 22, 2018 when he proposed to her in front of the Eifel Tower in Paris, France! ⓬ Kristen Erickson White resides in New Orleans working at the University Medical Center New Orleans as an RN Outpatient Navigator for Surgical Services in the orthopaedic department. She tied the knot to Tyler White on May 24, 2018 at St. John’s at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. ⓭ Cozette Kale finished up her first year in general surgery residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. ⑭ Grace Kelsoe currently resides in Austin and works in child welfare as the supervisor for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in Travis County. ⓯ Carlton Northrup proposed to Gabby Lamay in September 2017 and plans to tie the knot in Dallas in May 2019! Carlton currently resides in Dallas and works as an IT Consultant for Sumton Network Services. ⓰ Chris Rivas married college sweetheart Esther Marie Rivas on February 10, 2018. They met in 2008 during their first year at St. Mary’s University and said their “I do’s” in San Antonio, TX where it all began. Two Parish alumni, Jesse Hernandez ’07 and Daniel Salas ’10 were groomsman in the wedding. Class of 2009
⑰ Jonathan Bryant graduated from Perkins School of Theology on May 19,
2018. His wife, Emily Copeland Bryant ’10, jokes that he “finally earned his angel’s wings and halo.” ⑱ Trevor Ferré tied the knot on May 26, 2018 to Esther Nicks Ferré at the Perkins Chapel in Dallas, TX. ⑲ Sabrina Jurlina currently lives in downtown Chicago on the Chicago River. Sabrina models full time and is in the middle of working on attaining her real estate license to take advantage of the housing market in Chicago. Sabrina says that she is “so excited about this new venture” and is eager to see where it may lead. ⑳ Wes Richter is a mathematics teacher at Arlington Martin High School and software developer for Inside Edge, a premier sports scouting and data analytics organization. •• Conrad Smith married on September 3, 2016. He and his wife Meagan reside in California, where they welcomed daughter Emma Kate Smith on December 10, 2017. Conrad landed his dream job as a sensor operator for defense contractor General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc.
Whitney shares, “on a trip back to Mitch’s home in Milwaukee, Mitch dropped to one knee and proposed. I’m sure he said some lovely things but I was so overwhelmed with emotions and tears that the details are a little fuzzy.” The two plan to tie the knot at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration on January 26, 2019. •• Zach Kleiman & Kathryn Swihart Kleiman currently reside in Fort Worth, TX. These Parish high school sweethearts tied the knot on January 20, 2018 in Dallas, TX. Kathryn is a district manager for ALDI in the DFW Metroplex and Zach is an associate attorney at McDonald Sanders, P.C. •• Amanda Murph obtained her RN, BSN in June 2017. She is soon to be Mrs. Amanda Kundert. Amanda and her fiancé Matt were engaged in January 2018. They are planning for a May 2019 wedding at Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas, TX. •• Daniel Salas married Rosa Elia Lara on December 2, 2017 in Dallas, TX. 2• Alexandra Storey currently resides in San Antonio, TX and is employed at SWBC Mortgage where she works as an acquisition and financial analyst. •• Hudson Wilson is finishing up his master’s at the University of North Texas by summer 2018. He plans to work on his MBA in finance at the University of Texas. Hudson is employed at USI Insurance Services as an employee benefits consultant. Class of 2011
•• Madison “Maddie” Jones finished her first year at The Keck School
of Medicine of the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. She and her brother Cole ’14 recently completed an adventurous trip together in Nepal including a four day trek in the Himalayas. •• Allison Kelsoe is an NYC resident working as a senior associate at Mindshare, a global media agency. •• Lindsay Langston is resides in NYC and is employed at Derris PR Firm as an account executive. Class of 2012
•• Parker Altuna graduated May 2018 with a master’s in terrorism and
homeland security policy from American University. In summer 2018, he begins a federal law enforcement job with the U.S. Capitol Police. •• Sarah Champ graduated summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa and won the Gensler Prize for Gender Studies at Middlebury College. She is currently earning a master’s in social work and is a Hicks Scholar at UT Austin. She’d love to see some of her old classmates, so please look her up when you’re in the Austin area. •• Morgan Keeler currently resides in Dallas, TX and works for KPMG as an associate in business tax services. •• Lizzie Sanders Prochazka married Matt on January 27, 2018 in Dallas, TX at the Church of the Incarnation. Lizzie resides with her husband in Houston, TX and works as an associate director at Savills Studley commercial real estate services. •• Andi Wilson resides in Austin working for Kia Motors America as an internet sales manager. Class of 2013
•• Rida Baharia is a recent University of Texas, Dallas graduate who
received her degree in emerging media and communication and is employed at Strauss Marketing and PR in Dallas, TX. •• Emily Kelsoe is a recent University of Texas at Austin graduate and is in her first year of medical school at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia. Class of 2014
•• Tristan Cooper graduated with his bachelor’s in economics from the
University of Texas at Austin and is off to work with his co-owner and sister, Teal Cooper ‘12, to grow their company, VendiBean. VendiBean is an automated, bean-to-cup espresso machine that features “the best local craft coffee roasters in your city.”
Class of 2010
2• Jennifer Bailey is a University of San Diego graduate. She received her
master’s in climate science and policy at Scripps Research Institute in San Diego on June 17, 2017. Following graduation, she traveled to Athens, Greece to present her research as a professional speaker at the 3rd Annual International Conference on Public Health. Following the conference, she spent two weeks in Greece building relationships and networking with fellow scientists from around the world to discuss their research and partner in future projects.
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PARISH PANTHERBEAT
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SUMMER 2018 | PAGE 9
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•• Nicole Holzer graduated in May 2018 from the Lyle School of
Engineering at SMU with her B.S. in management science and an M.S. in operations research. Nicole kicks off her career with Citi Technology Infrastructure as a full time analyst in the CTI program this summer. •• Abby Jennings graduated from Baylor University in May 2018 majoring in both marketing and management information systems. Abby has been recently employed at Exxon Mobil in Houston, TX. She was with Exxon last summer as their SalesForce Service Implementation intern. •• Cole Jones ‘14 graduated in May 2018 with his bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California. He and sister Maddie ‘11 recently completed an adventurous trip together in Nepal including a four day trek in the Himalayas. •• Danielle McDonald is pursuing a psychology degree in San Diego at Point Loma Nazarene University with plans to go into therapy with children fighting cancer. •• Mark Moebius graduated from the University of Denver on June 9, 2018 with a degree in mechanical engineering and double minor in math and physics. Mark plans to stay and work in the Denver area. •• Sadie Rinker graduated Cum Laude from Belmont University in May 2018 with her B.A. in business/corporate communication and a minor in music business. Sadie has accepted a position with the world’s largest brand experience company, Freeman Company, in Nashville, TN. She is currently living in downtown Nashville in the heart of Music City with three other girls also from the great state of Texas. All three are in the music industry. Class of 2015
•• Kathryn Clark is a publicity intern at E! Entertainment at NBCUniversal
Media, LLC. Be on the lookout for her Parish Alumni Instagram takeover this summer! •• Allyson Langston completed her junior year at Ole Miss and expects to graduate in May 2019. She has attained a summer marketing and communications internship in Barcelona, Spain at Lamaga PR. •• Davis Plummer finished his 2018 tennis season at Millsaps College. Davis and his doubles teammate, Alex Centurion, “compiled a 16-2 overall record as the number one doubles’ combination for Millsaps, the pair have been awarded a bid out of the Atlantic South Region to compete
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in the 2018 NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championships. The bid solidifies Plummer and his teammate as one of the top sixteen doubles team in the entire nation.” http://gomajors.com/news/2018/5/9/mens-tennis-centurion-andplummer-qualify-for-ncaa-tennis-championships.aspx Class of 2016
•• Jonathan Moebiu is studying architecture at Kansas University.
He gives Mr. Perrine a “big thanks” for igniting his passion for architecture. Fun fact, Jonathan took Perrine’s architecture class twice.
Class of 2017
•• Adam Bergman is approaching his sophomore year at the University of
Texas, Austin. During his freshman year, he was nominated by his peers to hold a University Wide Representative position for the University of Texas; he was a part of the Target Hype Squad for Texas Athletics promoting all sporting events for UT and even held a tutoring position at Brentwood Christian School in Austin assisting students in Spanish. Adam studies Applied Learning and Development and is on the path to receive his Bilingual Generalist Certification. This summer you can find him at Asian Mint in Dallas serving up hip Asian-fusion bites. •• PVT Oscar Cruz graduated from Basic Combat Training in Fort Benning, GA. Next stop for Cruz is Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio for his AT (army medic training). •• Audrey Legate completed her first year at Denver University. She found her niche in her freshman-level Gateway to Business class. Through her class experience, she became a finalist in the 2018 Madden Challenge, a quarterly competition in which students develop a functional mobile app and market it to a panel of judges. In May 2018, Audrey and her teammate pitched to investors their Travel Time app to improve the study abroad experience. •• Osbaldo Meza is thriving at Allegheny College! He is a community fellow for Bonner Brown where he and other peers along with community partners, “strive to build socially just communities where people have the resources they need to reach their full potential.” He currently serves in student government at Allegheny and is earning a place on the search committee for his college’s new president.
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PAGE 10 | SUMMER 2018
PARISH PANTHERBEAT
Alumni Takeover:
Micah Pegues ‘16 Micah, a current student at New York University Gallatin School of Individualized Study, took over our Instagram page in the spring (see images right). She recently launched a new online magazine, Polychrome Mag, which she fully funded its first issue through a Kickstarter campaign. Catch up on this amazing Parish Alumna by visiting her website at www.micahpegues.com. Don’t forget to check out her recent interviews and coverage in Forbes, Artsy, Got a Girl Crush, and Soul Elevated.
PARISH EPISCOPAL SCHOOL NEWS
SUMMER 2018
Giving Update parishepiscopal.org/give
Parish Fund ’17-’18 raises approximately $1.5 million in gifts and pledges Thank you to Rachel and Evan Fetter, Parish Fund ’17-’18 Chairs and parents of Brad ’20, Max ’23, Lindsey ’25 & Annie ‘30, for leading this critical fundraising effort. Thank you also to all who have volunteered and given this past year. Parish continues to reach new heights in fundraising thanks to our outstanding and supportive community! We are pleased to announce that the Fetters will return to chair Parish Fund ’18-‘19, which kicks off October 3, 2018.
What’s inside: Pantherbeat Feature: Thank You Very Much! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4 Parish Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Parish says farewell to Wall of Service retirees: Karen O’Rear, Becky Maher and Mollie Farester . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Introducing Parish’s 2018-19 Board of Trustees . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Vice Chair of Parish’s Board of Trustees: Meet Andrea Mayfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Campaign Update Class Of 2018 Senior Gift: Seniors & Their Legacy Take Flight . . 5 Interview: Angela Horowitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 A Few Words from the Senior Gift Chairs: Andrea & Ron Denheyer and Dee & Trey Velvin . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Ask Pete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Alumni Spotlight: Leslie Briggs ’07 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Parish Alumni Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9 Alumni Takeover: Micah Pegues ‘16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Pantherbeat is the magazine of Parish Episcopal School | 4101 Sigma Road | Dallas, Texas 75244 | parishepiscopal.org
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