CAMPUS NEWS Summer 2026
Congratulations to the Class of 2026 This May, we celebrated the Class of 2026 at Philips Academy's 16th Graduation Ceremony. Our eight graduates each traveled a unique path to reach this milestone. With the support of their families, teachers, and staff, they have overcome challenges, achieved meaningful goals, and grown into confident young adults. The ceremony featured an inspiring commencement address from Amanda Jones, Program Director for Cakeable Charlotte, who encouraged graduates to embrace the future with confidence. She reminded them that the preparation, perseverance, and skills they have developed will guide them as they take their next steps. One of the most meaningful moments of the ceremony was the faculty tribute to each graduate. Teachers shared heartfelt reflections celebrating the accomplishments and growth they witnessed throughout each student's journey. The graduates also shared emotional reflections on their time at Philips Academy, expressing gratitude for supportive teachers, meaningful friendships, and experiences that prepared them for whatʼs next.
As one parent shared: "My daughter has truly cherished her three years as part of the Philips Academy community. Throughout her experience, she has embraced a wide range of activities and programs that have helped build her confidence and develop leadership skills. Our family is deeply grateful for the opportunities she has been given to grow, excel, and form meaningful friendships."
As our graduates begin their next chapters, we are excited to see all they will accomplish: • Janelle, Ian, Katie J., Caitlyn, and Reygan will continue developing valuable vocational and independent living skills in the Bridges young adult program, with Caitlyn and Reygan also continuing to work at Mood House and TJ Maxx. • Johnathan and Phillip will pursue post-secondary education at programs at Western Carolina University and a local community college. • Katie W. will continue learning and developing at Next Step Club House. Congratulations to the Class of 2026! We are incredibly proud of each graduate and look forward to watching them continue to grow and thrive.
Bridges Celebrates Next Steps At the end of the school year, we also held our Bridges End-of-Year Ceremony, honoring the six young adults who completed the program. It was a joyful celebration of their accomplishments, personal growth, and the exciting opportunities that await them. Throughout their time in Bridges, each participant has developed valuable skills, gained confidence, and taken meaningful steps toward greater independence.
IMPACTFUL OUTCOMES The Class of 2026 will take a variety of paths in pursuit of purposeful adulthood:
100%
of graduates received an NC Occupational Course of Study diploma.
63%
of graduates are enrolling in Bridges.
25%
of graduates are pursuing post-secondary education.
50%
of graduates and participants moving on from Bridges are employed.
During the ceremony, Bridges instructors Casey Turner and Melissa Brooker reflected on the remarkable progress each young adult has made since first starting the program. Peers and staff also shared heartfelt video messages filled with memories, words of encouragement, and well-wishes for the future. We look forward to seeing these young adults continue to move forward with confidence: • Ethan will attend Rainbow Express and continue working at the Board of Elections. • Ben will continue working at Helen Adams Realty. • Lyric will continue working on her digital art business, Eggroll Demon, while attending the I-LEAD program at Central Piedmont Community College. • Weslyn will continue working at Marti and Liz Boutique. • Will will continue working at both Modern Salon and Bank of America Stadium. • Brendan is exploring opportunities with Charlotte Arts Center and will continue volunteering with Habitat for Humanity Restore and the Board of Elections.
NEWS & UPDATES Remembering School Co-Founder Phil Blount It is with heavy hearts that we share that Philips Academy Co-Founder Phil Blount passed away in June. Phil's vision, dedication, positivity, and unwavering commitment to educational excellence laid the foundation for everything Philips Academy represents. His legacy is woven into every classroom, every student and family whose lives have been shaped by this community, and every educator and staff member who has carried forward the remarkable mission he and his wife, Jane, established over 20 years ago. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the Blount family, Jane, sons Philip and Jameson (Emily), and their loved ones during this difficult time. During this time of grief, we are reminded of the enduring power of the community that Phil and Jane have built—one rooted in purpose, compassion, and hope. He left this world better than he found it, and he will be deeply missed.
Philips Academy Board Update Philips Academy Board of Directors member and parent Becky Berolatti is stepping down from the board after nine years of service. Beckyʼs relationship with the school spans nearly two decades and predates her time as a parent. She first connected with us through our banking partnership, offering invaluable professional guidance and resources. She officially joined the Board in 2017 and, during her tenure, served as Board Chair and a fierce champion for our students and mission. In 2023, her son, Jack, joined our student body, and she took on the role of PA parent. While she may be stepping down from her board seat, we know her passionate advocacy for Philips Academy will continue. Thank you, Becky, for your exceptional service, your visionary leadership, and your unwavering heart for our school.
Providing a Path to Purposeful Adulthood Over 200 guests joined us at the NASCAR Hall of Fame for our 2026 Paving The Way luncheon in May. This year's event was an incredible celebration of Philips Academy's 20th anniversary, highlighting our past, present, and future. Guests enjoyed an engaging conversation between Executive Director Deborah Hofland and Storyhill Church Pastor Michael Flake on how Philips Academy is expanding our impact in the Charlotte area by opening our Davidson satellite campus at Storyhill. It was a pleasure to hear from keynote speaker Annie Totten, Founder and Executive Director of Generation WE, who shared a heartwarming message on the power of inclusion. Thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored, volunteered, and supported. With your help, we are Paving The Way to purposeful adulthood by equipping students with the tools and skills to become confident, self-determined adults.
HOW YOU CAN HELP Time Volunteer • Join a committee • Be a quest speaker
A special thank you to board member and Paving The Way Chair Raleigh Anne Gray. This yearʼs success would not have been possible without her leadership, dedication, and passion for Philips Academy's mission.
Talent Share knowledge and expertise • Invite us to your workplace for a tour
Ties
Scan here to see this year's video, which showcased how Philips Academy has been making an impact on students and their families for 20 years and counting!
Partner with us for vocational opportunities • Engage your network to galvanize support
Treasure
Donate materials • Make a gift
Main Campus- Charlotte 3115 Providence Road • Charlotte, NC 28211 704.365.4533 • Info@PhilipsAcademyNC.org
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