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Volume XVI, Issue II – Fall 2021 The Shield
P.O. Box 33430 San Antonio, Texas 78265-3430 www.smhall.org
A Publication of Saint Mary’s Hall
Saint Mary’s Hall has a large reserve of historical photos. In each issue of The Shield, we will include an unidentified photo and ask for your help in identifying the individuals in the photo and what they’re doing. If you know any of these people or have any information about the occasion, please write us at editor@smhall.org or at 9401 Starcrest Drive, San Antonio, TX 78217. Thank you for helping us archive a part of SMH history!
Where Tradition
Volume XVI, Issue II – Fall 2021
Let’s Connect!
saintmaryshall
@smhallsa
@smhallsa / @smh_barons
12
Graduate Makes History as Female Eagle Scout
34
Teacher Named Science Award Winner
36
Alumni Relations Welcomes New Director
A Message from the Head of School
Dear Saint Mary’s Hall, Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Great schools balance three polarities. First, they know how to provide rigor on one end of the spectrum, but do so within a community of support at the other end. Secondly, great schools know how to meet the needs of individual students, and at the same time they know how to build community around common connection and vision. And thirdly, great schools know how to sustain the very best of its cherished traditions, and yet they know how to innovate to meet the challenges of a changing world. These polarities I like to call rigor and support, community and the individual, and tradition and innovation. “Tradition and Innovation” is the theme of this issue of The Shield, and we are excited to share many of the new programs and enhanced initiatives that are helping SMH deliver on our long-standing promise to prepare our students “for success in college and fulfillment in life.” We approach innovation by first knowing our mission, our values, and our traditions. To this end, SMH provides a transformational academic and lifepreparation experience through deep learning of the liberal arts within a close-knit community where students are known. From that core commitment, our faculty members are dedicated to and have become education experts.
Head of School Len Miller
We are seeing incredible changes within the field of education, and it is our ambition that Saint Mary’s Hall become a leader in the national conversation about how to best educate students for the future. We possess the resources and the human talent to make a significant impact on this educational dialogue, but more importantly, our commitment also results in a profound day-to-day impact on the lives of our students. Our team is committed to knowing best practices, child development, and a deep understanding of the world in its complexity.
Sincerely,
Len Miller Head of School
“The past 18-plus months have been riddled with tough choices - for our kids, for our families, and for our community. I know how lucky we feel to be part of a school community that has made the commitment to get our kids back on campus safely and continue to provide them with the best possible experience. Like so many schools across the country, SMH has been faced with countless changes – in protocol, in equipment, and in operation in order to maintain the level of service we have come to expect from our School … we as a family have made a conscious shift in our giving in order to help support the needs of our School. We are so grateful to be part of the SMH community and want to help strengthen it even further by supporting The SMH Fund and we hope you will come along side us and show your support of the school, teachers, and faculty members who continue to make this such a special place.”
- Lindsay Bolner ’01
Table of Contents Special Notes – p. 2
Where Tradition Meets Innovation – p. 14
Around the Hall – p. 28
Alumni – p. 36
About The Shield The Shield is a publication of Saint Mary’s Hall in San Antonio, Texas, and is published twice annually for parents, alumni, and friends of the school. We would like to thank parents, students, faculty, and staff for contributing information used throughout the magazine. If you have any questions or comments about The Shield, or if you would like to submit an idea or information for a future issue, please contact us at editor@smhall.org.
On the cover: Established in 1879, Saint Mary’s Hall (SMH) is known for its deeply rooted traditions. As the school advances into the 21st century, SMH is where tradition meets innovation with the implementation of new creative and innovate forms of teaching and learning.
Editor Brance D. Arnold Graphic Design Robot Creative Photography Brance D. Arnold Luke Ayers ’24 Kemp Davis Alexis Fuetsch ’24 JP Gibson Robin Jerstad Jacob Schmidt Martin Waddy Saint Mary’s Hall is a private, coeducational, college preparatory school and admits students of any race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, or national/ethnic origin.
SAINT MARY’S HALL
WELCOMES NEW TRUSTEES Saint Mary’s Hall is honored to have a Board of Trustees whose steadfast support has been instrumental in keeping with the mission of our School.
Board of Trustees New Officer Transitions Ricardo R. Reyna, who has served on the board since 2016, will serve as our new Board Chair. Karen Lee Zachry, who has served on the board since 2017, is now Vice Chair. Elise Boyan, who has served on the board since 2017, is now Secretary.
Thank You This past May, one trustee completed his service as board member. On behalf of Saint Mary’s Hall and the Board of Trustees, we thank David Kelleher for his service. Our School is a better place because of his dedication and commitment to supporting the mission of SMH. Kelleher served on the Saint Mary’s Hall Board of Trustees from 2016 to 2021 and on the Building and Grounds Committee from 2008 to 2021; he was Chair of the Committee from 2017 to 2020. His family has an extensive history at Saint Mary’s Hall with his mother Joan ’50 and sisters, Ruth Agather ’79 and Julia Stacy ’75, all graduating from SMH. Kelleher is also parent of alumni Herbert ’15, Margaret ’17, and Mollie ’19.
2 | Saint Mary’s Hall
Special Notes
Get to Know Our New 2021-2022 Board of Trustees Members
We welcomed four new members to our Board of Trustees. We invite you to read about this impressive group, who will help guide our School.
2021-2022 Board of Trustees Ricardo R. Reyna* Chair
Karen Lee Zachry*
Paige Cheatham ’14 serves as a Management Consultant
Vice Chair
at Accenture, a multinational professional services company that specializes in IT services and consulting. She graduated from Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Africana Studies. Prior to Accenture, she served as an Enterprise Risk Management Intern at Brown Brothers Harriman, a finance services company based in New York, and as an intern for Girls, Inc., a nonprofit organization that offers pro-girl, evidence-based programs focusing on health and well-being, education, and leadership development. Cheatham, who enrolled at Saint Mary’s Hall as a Form 4 student in 2006, played varsity basketball as well as participated in Middle School volleyball and track. She graduated from SMH in 2014.
Edward H. Austin, Jr.
Dr. Yashika Dooley is a fellowship trained board certified
Carla Alvarez Brozovich ’01*
Urogynecologist at San Antonio Military Medical Center. She is co-founder of Women Physicians of Color Thrive Together, a dynamic platform for women physicians of color to gain strategies for total wellness. Dr. Dooley graduated with a Doctor of Medicine from Harvard Medical School. She completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency in the U.S. Air Force at Wright Patterson/Miami Valley Combined Residency Program. Dr. Dooley earned a Master of Science in Clinical Research at Loyola University Chicago School of Education and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Howard University. She is an Assistant Professor at the Uniformed Services University. Dr. Dooley has received numerous awards including APGO Excellence in Teaching, USUHS Clinical Educators Award, and Berlex Foundation Junior Faculty Development Award, among others. She is mother to former students Kennedy ’30 and Jaxon ’32.
James Greenwood is former Vice President of
Government Affairs for Valero Energy Corporation. He currently serves on the San Antonio Botanical Garden Executive Committee and has served as Chairman of the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, on the Chamber’s Executive Committee, San Antonio United Way’s Coordinating Council, and the Chairman for Family Services of San Antonio. He was Chief of Staff for San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg; Chief of Staff for U.S. Congressman Greg Laughlin; Legislative Assistant for U.S. Congressman Mike Andrews; the Executive Director of the U.S. Congressional Sunbelt Caucus; and President of the Texas State Society of Washington, D.C.; among others. Greenwood graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He is the parent of alumni Alexandra ’13 and James ’16.
Dr. Claudia Kypuros is a Licensed Clinical Social
Worker with Counseling Services at Trinity University. Her specialty areas include collegiate mental health, cultural identity development, relational knowledge, college sex behavior, and acculturation stress. Dr. Kypuros also served as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at The University of Texas at San Antonio Counseling Services for 10 years. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision from St. Mary’s University; a Master of Social Work from Southwest Texas State University; and a Bachelor of Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Kypuros is the parent of current students Joaquin ’27 and Guillermo ’28.
Trustee Emeritus
Muralidhar Beeram, M.D. Kenneth Bethune ’01 ex officio, Alumni Association President
Elise R. Boyan* Secretary Assistant Secretary
Paige Cheatham ’14 Anatolio B. Cruz III* Treasurer
Katherine E. David ’96 Yashika Dooley, M.D. Houston K. Frost, Ph.D. ’99 James Greenwood Ronald J. Herrmann Trustee Emeritus
Karen J. Hixon Trustee Emeritus
Emily M. Jones Claudia Kypuros, Ph.D. Connie McCombs McNab Trustee Emeritus
Soad L. Michelsen, M.D. Whitney Solcher Miller ’97* Assistant Treasurer
Christopher J. Pettit Emilie H. Petty ’01 Benjamin E. Tubb, M.D. Jeffrey M. Vance ’87 Curtis T. Vaughan III* Immediate Past Chair
* Officers of the Board of Trustees
The Shield | 3
CLASS OF 2021
Begins Journey Beyond SMH 140th Saint Mary’s Hall Commencement May 21, 2021
On May 21, a total of 92 graduates from the Class of 2021 officially graduated from Saint Mary’s Hall during a Commencement Ceremony held in Alonso Ancira Event Center.
Commencement Speakers Len Miller Head of School Curtis T. Vaughan III Immediate Past Board of Trustees Chair Brent Spicer Former Head of Upper School
Fletcher Spear ’21 Senior Class President Jennings Stuart ’21 Student Body President
I can connect almost everything in my daily life to something I learned from SMH and the people in it, each of whom has been a stitch in the quilt of my life. Jennings Stuart Student Body President
Medal Recipients Presented to students who have excelled in the following areas:
ENGLISH Jennings Stuart
SCIENCE Sarah Hernandez
FINE ARTS Media Arts Award - Izzy Castillo Performing Arts - Mehwish Rehman Visual Arts - Evelyn Cox
WORLD LANGUAGES Sophie Jaafar
HISTORY AND SOCIAL SCIENCES Olivia Zachry
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MATH Sarah Hernandez
MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AWARD Rodney Hunter FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AWARD Lindsay Martin
Special Notes
School Awards The Upper School faculty awarded the Bishop’s Christian Citizenship Cup to Sophie Jaafar for demonstrating a Christian attitude and influence in all aspects of life. The Jamie Armstrong Bennett Award was presented to School Health Service Coordinator Melissa Baumholtz for her significant contribution to the life of the school and exemplifying the qualities valued by the school’s founders.
Class of 2021 by the Numbers
$
11+ MILLION in merit-based college scholarships
92 Graduates
59
Colleges & Universities Attended
28 Zip Codes
34 Awarded President’s
64% Admitted to self-identified
62%
16,589 Community service hours
Volunteer Service Award
Received at least one merit-based scholarship
top-choice university or college
Longevity Recognition Affectionately known as “Lifers,” this recognition is presented each year to students who have attended Saint Mary’s Hall for 12 or more years.
5 | Saint Mary’s Hall
Hail From
15 YEARS
Alexis Aguallo Caroline Berridge Annika Blomster Isabela Castillo Marcel Chavez Preston Harris Aspen Johnson Devika Kumar Margaret Leavitt Sean Mulrow Ricky Reyna Ethan Salazar Ben Wilson
14 YEARS
Michelle Bourland Emily Braddock Chalsea Huffman Isabella Parodi Meredith Vance Olivia Zachry
13 YEARS
Sophie Jaafar Bryce Mazloum Jennings Stuart Lucas Williamson
12 YEARS
Matthew Garcia Michael Karkar Caroline Lawton Luke Phillips
The Shield | 5
6 | Saint Mary’s Hall
Colleges & Universities
CLASS OF 2021
SAINT MARY’S HALL
Texas A&M University Charles Patrick Danysh Sophie Grace Jaafar
St. Edward’s University Isabella Dolores Parodi Ethan James Salazar
Southwestern University Ryan Elizabeth Tanner
Southern Methodist University Nikki Sophia Winter
Schreiner University Rodney Isaac Theotis Hunter II
Rice University Michelle Reneé Bourland Leah Gracielle Gomez
Baylor University Steven Bao Nguyen Caroline Grace Tibbetts Sofia Vildosola
University of California Los Angeles Brooke Danielle Candelario Michael Kameel Karkar
Occidental College Lindsay Paul Martin
Loyola Marymount University Ethan Gregory Parkhurst Isaiah Wright
Brigham Young University Kaiyu Ka’lai Komatsu
University of Oregon Eli Beau Greenberg
Trinity University Alexis Renee Aguallo Isabela Victoria Castillo Isabel Frances Hackney Preston Taylor Harris Raed Shakil Khan
University of Dallas Nicholas Hagan Wilson
University of The Incarnate Word Andrew Wayne Dougherty
Texas Christian University Michael Quinton Battah Sidney Rain Lopez-Williams Alana Marie Michell Sean William Mulrow John Tate Seeligson Emma Catherine Tucker Meredith Elaine Vance
Texas Tech University Margaret Elaine Koehler Caroline Barrett Travis
The University of Texas at Austin Vivek Beeram Caroline René Berridge Itza Yesenia Martinez Max Nathan Rosenbloom Karl Hormazd Sanjana
The University of Texas at San Antonio Vico Abel
University of Oklahoma Sofia Alexandra Meagher Samuel Riley Ryerse Riggs
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Nicole Yvonne Detiveaux
University of Puget Sound Matthew Logan Garcia
University of Colorado at Boulder Curtis Dean Benson Aspen Jewel Johnson Fletcher Ryan Spear Lucas Dietrich Williamson Ohio State University Adam Jacob Swider
Kenyon College Clark Keator Webb
Emerson College Margaret Helen Leavitt
Vassar College Ricardo Mateo Reyna
University of Miami Zachary Ramiel Berg
Florida Memorial University Gavin Isaiah Walker
University of Toronto Zhongyi Huang
Trinity College Dublin (Ireland) William Taylor Wyatt
Angelo-American University (Czechia) Mehwish Noor Rehman
International
Savannah College of Art & Design Annika Nicole Blomster Jennings Helene Stuart
Covenant College Hunter Reid Darling
Furman University Nicole Victoria Johnson
Washington & Lee University Whitney Elizabeth McCormick
University of Virginia Chelsea Clo Huffman
George Washington University Olivia Grace Zachry
Maryland Institute College of Art Evelyn Cecily Cox
Yale University Alexandra Grace Dalrymple
Connecticut College Emily Isabella Braddock Caroline Haley Lawton
Williams College John Maxey Hart
Regis College Thomas Daniel Ahlstrom
Northeastern University Marcel Nicolas Chavez Bernardo Serra-Franco Devika Sudha Kumar
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Sarah Isabelle Hernandez
Boston College Jacqueline Marie Clement Benjamin O’Neill Wilson
Babson College Maximiliano Valencia
Syracuse University Margaret Esquinca-Moreno
Eckerd College Bryce Bassem Mazloum
University of Alabama, Honors College Ainslie Caroline Coley Lainie Rae Hoalst Nicole Alyx-Sumiko Kaufeldt
Swarthmore College Quentin Taylor Adolphe
Haverford College Luke Douglas Phillips
Bucknell University Peter Thomas Beaudette
Sewanee: The University of the South Luke Morton Thompson
University of Mississippi Carson Elisabeth Miller
College of Wooster Brandon James Grindall
Case Western Reserve University Roy Emmett Pena
Barnard College Claire Hansen Brown
Anna Maria College David Niki Flores
Special Notes
The Shield | 7
8 | Saint Mary’s Hall
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 10
7
10 25 6 1 3 4
9
8
University of California, Los Angeles – 6 The University of Texas at San Antonio – 5
Baylor University – 12 Southern Methodist University – 12
New York University – 10
University of Colorado Boulder – 11
Texas Tech University – 6
Trinity University – 15
Texas Christian University – 20
Tulane University – 9
5-9 Graduates
Texas A&M University – 15
10-15 Graduates
The University of Texas at Austin – 33
20 or More Graduates
SMH Graduates Matriculated to the Following Schools:
UT Austin TCU Texas A&M Trinity University Baylor SMU University of Colorado Boulder NYU Tulane Texas Tech/UCLA
Top 10 colleges and universities SMH graduates matriculate to after leaving our halls:
TOP 10
Four-Year College Matriculation: Class of 2018-2021
Where Do Our SMH Graduates Go?
George Washington University – 2
Georgetown University – 4
Georgia Military College – 1
Hamilton College – 1
Hampden-Sydney College – 1
Harding University – 1
Harvard University – 3
Haverford College – 1
Indiana University (Bloomington) – 1
Johns Hopkins University – 1
Kenyon College – 3
Louisiana State University – 3
Auburn University – 1
Austin Community College District – 1
Babson College – 1
Barnard College – 2
Belmont University – 1
Blinn College – 3
Boston College – 2
Boston University – 2
Brigham Young University – 1
Bucknell University – 1
California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo) – 2
Duke University – 3
Davidson College – 2
Dartmouth College – 3
Covenant College – 1
Cornell University – 3
Connecticut College – 4
Colorado School of Mines – 2
Clemson University – 4
Claremont McKenna College – 1
Chapman University – 1
Case Western Reserve University – 2
Carnegie Mellon University – 1
Emerson College – 2
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Daytona Beach) – 1
Eckerd College – 1
Williams College – 1 Yale University – 1
University of California (Irvine) – 1 University of Chicago – 1 University of Dallas – 1
Purdue University (Main Campus) – 1
William & Mary – 2
Wesleyan University – 2
Washington and Lee University – 4
Wake Forest University – 1
Villanova University – 2
Vassar College – 2
Vanderbilt University – 2
University of the Incarnate Word – 4
University of Virginia (Main Campus) – 2
University of Utah – 3
University of Tulsa – 1
University of Toronto – 1
University of St. Andrews – 1
University of Southern California – 3
University of Richmond – 2
University of Puget Sound – 1
University of Oregon – 1
University of Oklahoma – 2
University of Notre Dame – 2
University of North Carolina Wilmington – 1
University of New England – 1
University of Nebraska (Lincoln) – 1
University of Missouri (Columbia) – 1
University of Mississippi – 1
University of Michigan – 2
University of Miami – 2
University of Mary Hardin (Baylor) – 1
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – 1
Princeton University – 1
University of California (Berkeley) – 2
University of Arizona – 1
United States Military Academy – 1
United States Air Force Academy – 1
Tufts University – 1
Trinity College Dublin – 1
The University of Alabama – 4
The Ohio State University (Main Campus) – 1
The College of Wooster – 2
Texas Lutheran University – 2
Texas A&M University at Galveston – 1
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi – 2
Syracuse University – 1
Swarthmore College – 1
Southwestern University – 1
Sewanee: The University of the South – 1
Scripps College – 2
Schreiner University – 1
Savannah College of Art and Design – 3
San Antonio College – 1
Saint John’s University – 1
Saint Edward’s University – 2
SUNY Maritime College – 1
Ringling College of Art and Design – 1
Rice University – 3
Rhodes College – 1
University of Houston – 1
University of Denver – 3
Pratt Institute (Main Campus) – 1
Pomona College – 1
Palo Alto College – 1
Pace University (New York City) – 3
Occidental College – 1
Northwestern University – 3
Northeastern University – 3
Morehouse College – 1
Midwestern State University – 1
Middlebury College – 2
Mayville State University – 1
Massachusetts Institute of Technology – 2
Maryland Institute College of Art – 2
Marist College – 1
Loyola Marymount University – 2
Stanford University – 2
George Mason University – 2
Anna Maria College – 1
Carleton University – 1
St. Mary’s University – 2
Furman University – 3
American University – 3
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute – 2
Florida Memorial University – 1
Regis College – 1
Emory University – 1
Abilene Christian University – 1
1-4 Graduates
Anglo-American University – 1
The Shield | 9
Spring Sports The talent, dedication, and perseverance of all Barons is evident in each team’s athletic accomplishments every season; and spring sports are no exception. In the spring of 2021, the Barons achieved not only success in the classroom, but on the playing fields, courts, tracks, and courses, with varsity baseball, golf, lacrosse, tennis, and track & field all shining in their respective sports. Here are just a few athletics highlights from last spring:
Women’s varsity golf team captured TAPPS 5A State Championship (team members included: Annika Blomster ’21, Julia Garcia ’23, Emily Harris ’22, Georgia Kemmett ’22, and Lauren Strauch ’22).
Ainsley Hunter ’23 won 2nd place in the 100 meter hurdles for TAPPS 5A and Remy White ’22 earned 3rd place in the high jump for TAPPS 5A for track & field.
33 All-District Awards 5 All-State Awards 9 Academic All-State Awards 1 Team State Championship 1 Individual State Championship
Julia Garcia ’23 was crowned 2021 TAPPS 5A Individual State Champion in golf.
Ricky Rena ’21, Luke Thompson ’21, and Nick Wilson ’21 played in the San Antonio Missions’ High School Baseball Seniors Celebration against top-talented seniors in the city.
Lacrosse standout Rudy Zarate ’22 had a monumental year as goaltender with 201 saves throughout his career and garnered national attention.
10 | Saint Mary’s Hall
Recognitions
Varsity tennis players Brian Berman ’24 and Ally Gibbs ’23 competed in individuals at TAPPS State Championship.
Special Notes
PEGGY PITMAN MAYS FUND FOR
TEACHER EXCELLENCE In 2008, Saint Mary’s Hall alumna and former teacher Peggy Pitman Mays ’53 made a gift in support of faculty development. In the years since, more than 80 teachers have benefited from grants awarded by the Peggy Pitman Mays Fund for Teacher Excellence, and traveled the world, experiencing the best professional learning opportunities available. Due to circumstances associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, only one SMH faculty member traveled this year as part of the grant program. We invite you to read (in her own words) what she experienced this summer, and how it will benefit our students.
Kellen Stanley
Lower School Art Teacher Chicago, Illinois; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and New York City, New York
“It was an honor to travel the country in the summer of 2021 to deepen my art and architecture curriculum for Lower School students. I’m grateful this research trip was made possible with the Peggy Pitman Mays Fund for Teacher Excellence. With this funding, my intent was to experience a variety of art and architecture in Chicago, Pittsburgh, and New York City in order to bring back inspiration to artists in the Lower School. I visited the major art museums in New York to experience Vincent Willem van Gogh’s Starry Night and Claude Monet’s Water Lilies as well as artists I never would’ve known about without the outstanding curation at The Brooklyn Museum, MoMA’s PS1, or The Andy Warhol Museum (to name a few). I toured skyscrapers in Chicago and experienced key buildings in architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s body of work. One of the highlights was experiencing Wright’s masterpiece, Fallingwater, a dream house built on top of a waterfall, which now stands as a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization World Heritage Site. By experiencing the landscape as well as the interior and exterior of the design, I now have a better grasp to teach sensory-driven lessons to tie in the relationship to water and the land in which Fallingwater collaborates with.” View more of Stanley’s research as part of the Peggy Pitman Mays Fund for Teacher Excellence by searching #artteacheronassignment on Instagram.
The Shield | 11
SMH Graduate Makes History as Female Eagle Scout Michelle Bourland ’21 made a historical achievement last spring before graduating from Saint Mary’s Hall. She was one of four San Antonio teens who were among the nation’s first female Eagle Scouts. Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America, achieved by only four percent of scouts since its inception in 1911. Local television station, KENS 5, featured Michelle as part of their coverage of these trailblazing young women. “Being one of the first female Eagle Scouts means being an example to younger women and girls for the rest of my life, and being responsible for showing girls that they can do just as much as their male classmates,” said Bourland. Not only was Bourland a member of the historic inaugural class of female Eagle Scouts, she was one of a total of six Eagle Scouts in SMH’s Class of 2021 and one of five scouts from SMH’s troop last school year to be awarded the rank. To achieve the Eagle Scout distinction, scouts must earn at least 21 merit badges, demonstrate Scout Spirit, and conduct a service project. Bourland’s project was to refurbish changing tables for special-needs campers at Children’s Association for Maximum Potential, an organization she has volunteered at for many years. Bourland also earned the President’s Volunteer Service Award (Gold Level) for four consecutive years recognizing her work with the San Antonio Zoo.
Bourland receiving her diploma at Commencement.
“I have always held the idea that if you are able to do something, do it to help others,” said Bourland. “I believe that volunteering isn’t about what you get in return, it’s about how much you are able to change someone’s life that day.”
Bourland attended SMH for 14 years, arriving in Montessori. She was involved in dance and band at the School, and has been a part of the National Charity League since 7th grade. Bourland attributes being a scout and an SMH student to helping her develop leadership skills, which will assist her in achieving her dream of owning a veterinary practice one day. SMH has a storied history of students earning the rank of Eagle Scout with 69 SMH scouts reaching this status. The School has sponsored the Pack 496 Cub Scouts and Troop 496 Boy Scouts since 1999 and has had more than 1,000 scouts associated with SMH since that time.
12 | Saint Mary’s Hall
Bourland helps refurbish furniture as part of a service project on campus.
Special Notes
New Head of Upper School Brings Excitement and Excellence to SMH With a student-centered approach, deep care for faculty culture, and her excitement for partnering with parents and school leadership, Dr. Liz Stockdale has hit the ground running as the new Head of Upper School at Saint Mary’s Hall. Her appointment was announced in February 2021 following a nationwide search and overwhelmingly positive feedback from the SMH leadership team, Upper School Search Committee, and Upper School faculty, staff, students, and parents. “There is no doubt in my mind that Liz will have an immediate impact on our campus,” said Head of School Len Miller. “I was most impressed with the way she interacted with our students and the way they responded to her.”
Head of Upper School Dr. Liz Stockdale joins biology students at the SMH beehives.
This interaction is evident daily. Dr. Stockdale visits classrooms, participates in student events, and attends athletics games and fine arts performances. She even recently suited up in a beekeeper suit to join biology students as they extracted honey from the SMH beehives on campus.
Since joining the SMH community, Stockdale has been impressed with the School’s dedication to both academics and care of the whole student.
Stockdale brings a high level of experience to the school with an extensive background in education. Before coming to SMH, she served as the Upper School Dean of Students at The Harpeth Hall School in Nashville, Tennessee. Prior to Harpeth, Stockdale was the Student Life Coordinator and a History Teacher at The Emery/Weiner School in Houston, Texas. In addition, she has taught and coached at The Foxcroft School in Middleburg, Virginia and Mercersburg Academy in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania.
“I am in awe of the student-centered innovation that is taking place on the campus. The practices, values, and traditions at Saint Mary’s Hall reflect a strong commitment to academic excellence and a nurturing community of character development,” said Stockdale.
Earning her Bachelor of Arts in History and Sociology, she was a four-time varsity letterwoman on the women’s lacrosse team and served as team captain at Ohio Wesleyan University. Stockdale holds a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies, Humanities from Wesleyan University; a Master of Education in Independent School Leadership from Vanderbilt University; and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University.
Beginning her role in July 2021, Stockdale and husband, Will Reiners, and 15-month-old daughter, Virginia Hughes Reiners, have embraced the SMH community and their new home of San Antonio. Moreover, students have embraced her palpable commitment to them and their well-being. Though she is only just getting started, Stockdale has been exceptional in leading the Upper School and continues to elevate SMH to new heights of excellence.
The The Shield | 13
Where Tradition
14 | Saint Mary’s Hall
Featured Stories
E
stablished in 1879, Saint Mary’s Hall echoes the traditional liberal arts college model. As the school advances into the 21st century, SMH is where tradition meets innovation.
However, innovation is more than just cuttingedge technology utilized to enhance and elevate learning. Innovation in schools is also about creativity, collaboration, connection, and the use of teaching methods that foster learning and help build meaningful relationships. In this featured section, we explore ways SMH melds traditional with creative and innovate forms of teaching and learning. Fine Arts faculty in all three divisions collaborate to build shared space online for exhibiting students’ artwork. Upper School Social Studies teachers introduce the Harkness Method to encourage dialogue in an open-minded, student-led learning environment. Lower School implements Responsive Classroom to support social-emotional learning. The Research Science Scholars Program provides students the opportunity for internships at city health institutions. SMH has a new, innovative school schedule to better support and improve the student experience. These are just some of the examples of the ever-evolving partnership among divisions to enhance the student journey through innovation.
THE SHIELD | 15
SMH Vertical Curriculum Integration By Brance D. Arnold
N
ovelist Ralph Ellison once said, “Education is all a matter of building bridges.” Saint Mary’s Hall is a community, and this ideology extends into the development of a curriculum that features innovative teaching methods and crossdivisional opportunities.
T
hese methods inspire collaboration, teamwork, vertical curriculum integration, and various pedagogical approaches focused on the whole child. Whether it is English, Math, Science, Social Studies, World Languages, Fine Arts, or Health and Wellness, concepts are learned at an early age and are developed throughout a student’s journey at SMH, making their learning more deeply understood and ingrained. “Vertical alignment in curriculum is evident when skills are introduced and reinforced. SMH teachers work collaboratively across a multitude of Form levels and departments,” says Assistant Head of Upper School Jeff Hebert. Take a look at just a few examples of integration creating important connections across divisions and igniting a passion for learning.
16 | Saint Mary’s Hall
For the Love of Math The Upper School math curriculum offers traditional courses sequenced from Algebra to Pre-Calculus, but also has the option to pursue highly technical and unique advanced classes, such as Principles of Finance and Investing. One course implemented this year is Entrepreneurship. This exciting course offers the opportunity for accomplished SMH alumni in the business world to visit campus and share their wisdom and expertise with students.
Featured Stories
Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire. – W.B. Yeats
Studying Traits Form 7 Life Science students, as part of their service projects, visit classes and departments across SMH to gather data. What kind of data? They are studying the distribution of physical traits. They interview subjects, analyze their collected data, and report their findings within their projects.
Investigating a Theory Piaget’s theory of cognitive development focuses on the nature and development of human intelligence. Upper School Psychology students take a trip to Montessori every year to investigate this theory and spend quality time with the youngest of SMH students. They observe firsthand childhood psychological development as well as how Montessori students perceive the world around them.
Learning and Collaboration for a Good Cause Upper School Painting & Drawing students and Form 5 artists made personalized bookmarks for a child through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Form 5 artists were presented with STEAM design specifications in order to create a stencil or drawing of a unicorn. Upper School Painting & Drawing classes used wood block carving tools and flexicut linoleum to design block prints for their bookmarks. The Form 5 classes collaborated with a member of the Technology team to use a laser cutter to make their bookmarks. Faculty and administration align the curriculum, creating a natural flow of lessons, instruction, and assessments across all Forms and disciplines. This strong alignment ensures key concepts and skills are reinforced and prepares students for challenging, higher-level studies beyond the SMH halls.
Engaging with Language and Culture The vertically aligned World Languages and Cultures curriculum gives students the ability to transition from Middle to Upper School languages seamlessly and extend learning beyond the textbook to the real world. Students take field trips to museums like The McNay Museum and San Antonio Museum of Art as they learn about French, Hispanic, and Roman art. Students can also take summer immersion courses in Europe and Asia.
An Upper School Psychology student visits with a Montessori student as part of a childhood psychological development project.
An Upper School student reads with Lower School students.
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For the Benefit By Brance D. Arnold
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n years past, student Lance Berryman ’22, who carries a full daily schedule, would opt to head home rather than meet with teachers after school as time was limited and homework was due in 24 hours or less. With SMH implementing a new school schedule this year, he feels some of those challenges alleviated. “Overall, the new schedule definitely benefits students and is designed to take some pressure off of us while maintaining the necessary workload,” said Berryman, who came to SMH from San Antonio Academy in Form 6.
As outlined in the 2018 strategic plan, a need was identified for a schedule that better supported students not only academically, but also in terms of well-being. “This year, we moved forward on this important initiative by defining our daily schedule goals, creating a strategic process to assess our current and past schedules, studying best practices, and creating a unique schedule that will benefit our students,” says Head of School Len Miller.
Why Change? From the initial study of programs and work with Independent School Management (who has helped guide more than 300 independent schools through the scheduling processes), SMH gathered feedback from each student and analyzed the data to make schedules that were an ideal fit for each division. “We observed that the demands on 21st-century learners included collaboration, personal well-being, creative expression, resilience, and engaging global perspectives,” says Head of Upper School Dr. Liz Stockdale. The new schedules are designed to promote academic excellence and quality of the school’s programming; focus on student wellness and homework load; allow for innovation, reflective learning, and intellectual curiosity; provide community time and learning opportunities on and off campus; and enhance time for faculty and student collaboration.
Class President Lance Berryman ’22 speaks during Convocation.
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“I believe the biggest benefit rests with regard to homework. Since we have each class every other day, we have an extra night to complete our assignments,” says Berryman. “Office hours are a huge plus, because it allows students to see teachers before the end of the day.” Both Middle and Upper School are based on an eight-day rotation where classes strategically rotate daily to benefit varied learning styles and needs of students. The rotation of core classes allows students an opportunity to receive the content instruction that best suits their optimal learning time.
How It Works For Upper School, classes rotate in 75-minute blocks with four class meetings during the academic day. Students experience balanced and relevant support for homework and have free time in their schedule to meet with teachers, relax with friends, and engage in pursuits of individual interest. “Since most students have one to two off periods lasting 75 minutes, we have enough time to really get some homework completed while at school, therefore opening up the rest of our afternoon. Personally, I practice lacrosse or run every day after school without sacrificing homework time – most of my friends also have more free time after school,” Berryman says. For Middle School, the vertical rotation of classes are approximately 70 minutes, and the WIN (What I Need) time allows for unstructured down time/recess, for time to meet with teachers and get extra help, and for reflection. Centered on three core classes daily, students have more time for study hall and faculty office hours, as well as daily, unstructured time for Advisory to help create meaningful relationships.
Overall, the new schedule definitely benefits students and is designed to take some pressure off of us while maintaining the necessary workload. – Lance Berryman ’22 SMH Student
“We wanted to design a schedule that is developmentally appropriate in terms of length of classes, provides the opportunity for exploration and discovery, and adheres to the need for flexibility due to the changing needs of this age group,” says Head of Middle School Sarah Visagie. Lower School schedules are set up in an eightday rotation with specials, recess, and lunch set at strategic times and core subjects taught each day at various times of the day throughout the rotation. More time is allowed for teachers and students to create strong classroom communities; to ensure a sense of belonging; to facilitate learning, collaboration, and connection; and for reflection. The schedule also provides faculty and staff opportunities to collaborate and explore innovative ways to improve student learning and achievement. “We worked to create a student-centered schedule which makes social and emotional learning and connection central to the classroom community and allows time and flexibility for students to take a deeper dive into learning,” says Head of Lower School Khristi Bates. SMH’s new innovative school scheduling not only enhances the ability for students to be successful academically, but provides opportunities for connecting and building close relationships, helps to ensure a strong sense of belonging, and supports the well-being of the whole student.
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Saint Mary’s Hall Introduces Harkness Method By Adrian Viccellio
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s the AP European History students settle into the circle of desks around the classroom, the invitation is put forward, “Mr. Herff, would you mind facilitating the conversation this morning?” William Herff ’22 eagerly accepts with a nod and a thumbs up. He will play the role of facilitator, a responsibility that many of the students covet in the Harkness exercise because they enjoy directing the flow of conversation and making sure everyone has a chance to speak. The students open their notes from the previous night’s reading and I take a seat at my desk behind the circle. Today, I have brought open-ended questions for the students to discuss. After everyone is settled, William reads the first prompt from the Clevertouch board, “Defend or refute: ‘The English Reformation ought to be considered more of a political revolution than a religious one.’ ” Hands shoot up around the circle and he calls on the students to share their perspectives. It is a lively discussion as two other students describe Henry VIII’s political ambitions while several others explain how different the English Reformation was
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from developments in Germany and Switzerland. I try to keep up, jotting down their points on my student roster, listening for evidence and examples. All of a sudden, a student asks a new, albeit related question, “Mr. Viccellio, why didn’t France break free from the power of Rome in the same way that England did?” As much as I would love to lecture on the religious context of 16th century France, I redirect him to put his question to the students in the circle. Initially, everyone seems stumped. There’s a long silence. Students glance down. It is a question he had not planned to ask. He recognizes this is an important and difficult question because it’s synthesizing multiple elements at once. They need a lifeline, so I offer a suggestion, “Why don’t you take a few moments and jot down some thoughts on your paper, and then when we’re ready, each of you share your insights with the person next to you,” I say. The conversation has deviated a bit, but that’s the nature of the Harkness Method – to put the students at the center of developing meaning from what they’re reading and learning, to move beyond simply knowing the “right answers” to asking the right questions.
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History of the Harkness Method • Created by renowned philanthropist Edward Harkness
TRADITIONAL MODEL
HARKNESS MODEL
• 1930s: Harkness funds the innovative program at his alma mater, Phillips Exeter, to be used in every classroom • Program moves away from traditional teacher lectures to teacher/students discussion of the material around an oval table • College preparatory schools throughout the U.S. begin to use the innovative method of instruction
Each year, through the Exeter Humanities Institute, nearly 500 teachers from around the world are invited to Exeter, New Hampshire or LaJolla, California to spend a week dedicated to implementing the Harkness Method of instruction in their classrooms. During this intensive training, teachers work with high school instructors who are experts in their fields, as well as highly effective practitioners of the Harkness Method. Upper School Social Studies Teacher Mark Remington was invited to attend the Exeter Humanities Institute, and was able to bring his training and materials back to campus to share with his peers. This year, two Harkness tables will be utilized, one in Remington’s class and one in my class. The oval table creates a classroom ethos, an educational culture, where a common learning space empowers students to operate as contributors and circulators of their own knowledge. All are at the same level with no front or back to the classroom. Students face one another so the teacher is not the sole focal point. While remaining the content expert, the teacher continues to design the
learning experiences, but the teaching looks different – it is more transactional and so the learning is more open-sourced and pluralistic. When done effectively, students actively listen to one another and respond in the moment as the conversation streams across the content area. Countless times a student makes a connection between two seemingly disparate concepts that broadens and enriches understanding of the material in ways a teacher never anticipates when writing the lesson. Though we share recognition of the immeasurable benefits of the Harkness Method, Remington and I as well as students, eagerly embrace student-directed learning each day. With Harkness, students’ voices are celebrated and rough draft ideas are accepted and refined. What better way to prepare students for democratic participation and contribution at the university than to invite them into dialogue with new ideas and multiple viewpoints? Adrian Viccellio is an Upper School Social Studies Teacher. He has taught at SMH since 2015.
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Lower School Introduces By Nancy Lee Archer ’16
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his fall, Saint Mary’s Hall introduced a new program in the Lower School with an innovative, evidence-based approach to teaching and discipline: Responsive Classroom.
Under Head of Lower School Khristi Bates’ leadership, 12 Lower School teachers participated in an intensive training seminar this summer, where they connected with educators all over the country. The rest of the Lower School faculty and staff completed a condensed version of the intensive training seminar in an effort to provide a robust learning environment for students. Responsive Classroom is a framework that equips teachers with the necessary tools to boost engagement in academic lessons, build a positive community in their classrooms, create effective ways to manage the classroom, and reach their students through developmentally responsive
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teaching practices. In existence for nearly 40 years, Responsive Classroom enables educators with skills to ensure their students not only receive a highquality education, but also build a strong sense of community and empathy that transcends their classroom walls. “Two years ago, the Lower School formed a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Task Force,” says Bates. “After intensive research, site visits, and multiple conversations with SEL experts, our team unanimously came to consensus that Responsive Classroom aligned with our mission and would serve our community of learners.” With a strong focus on teacher effectiveness, Responsive Classroom empowers Lower School teachers to create lessons that are interactive and engaging, set high expectations for students to meet, establish routines for students to follow, use language that allows them to grow both academically and
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“I have seen an increase in positivity in our Lower School students on campus and have heard from parents about an increase in positive behaviors at home,” says Bates.
A Form 1 student reads to the class the daily schedule to help students prepare for their day.
socially, and build a strong community with a shared purpose. Saint Mary’s Hall teachers are committed to creating safe, joyful, and engaging classrooms for their students to be able to excel academically, socially, and emotionally. Each morning, students begin their day in the classroom with a Morning Meeting. Teachers and students greet one another, share information about themselves, and engage in group activities that set the tone for a positive learning environment. Teachers end Morning Meetings by sharing a message with their students that provides a roadmap for the work they will complete that day. This time is crucial for building a sense of community where students really know their peers, feel comfortable in the classroom setting, and learn to practice empathy.
Saint Mary’s Hall fosters a community that teaches its students to strive to be someone who cares. This year, Lower School students received a rubber bracelet to remind them of five ways the SMH community C.A.R.E.S. (Cooperation, Assertion, Responsibility, Empathy, and Self-control) for one another. From a young age, students learn to be active members in their community and build relationships with one another, which further enhances their academic competencies in the classroom. Lower School counselor Susan Moore-Sickmann adds, “Responsive Classroom techniques have added a richness to teaching social skills in the Lower School by empowering students to learn to make choices, recognize different emotions, and interact with classmates in respectful, meaningful ways.” Every day, Lower School teachers aim to connect with their students in more profound and effective ways. This group of world-class educators is actively committed to reaching and connecting with every student in their classroom as they prepare the next generation of Barons to make a positive difference in the world.
I have seen an increase in positivity in our Lower School students on campus and have heard from parents about an increase in positive behaviors at home. – Khristi Bates Head of Lower School
Form 1 students share photos of their families as part of a Responsive Classroom exercise.
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Feeding Intellectual Curiosity By Tricia Schwennesen
To be exposed to science early is really critical. – Dr. Larry Schlesinger Texas BioMed CEO and President
K
athleen Benson ’22 devoted part of her summer to studying scientific research techniques– not just in theory but in hands-on practice.
She learned about bacterial transformation, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), staining and dyeing techniques, and read original research papers published in reputable scientific journals for hour-long discussions as part of the “Journal Club.” “These are things you typically never get to do in high school,” she says. Benson is one of seven Saint Mary’s Hall scholars who applied for and was selected to participate in the Research Science Scholars Program. Open to rising juniors and seniors, applications included an essay and teacher recommendations. “I was blown away by the caliber of our students,” says Upper School Biology Teacher Dr. Jamie Holbrook, who leads the program. “It’s a testament to the level of education SMH provides.” The goal of the specialized program is to give students the opportunity to spend the year studying the human endeavor of scientific research, foundational laboratory skills, the evaluation of results from statistical analysis, and how to plan, implement, and communicate research findings. In short, it gives students a head start in a scientific research career and early exposure to research before they begin their undergraduate studies. “With the pandemic, we’ve seen the importance of research and the importance of fast research,” Holbrook says. “Research is going to benefit humankind. Ultimately, that’s key, to help others.”
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The Research Science Program is comprised of three parts that include classroom work such as studying scientific literature; learning to write reports and practicing lab skills; an independent research project to be presented to a panel of scientists; and an unpaid internship with a certified lab. Mentorship is a big part of the process. Research Science Program scholars have secured internships that began in mid-September. “Students have taken lab tours and have seen some amazing things,” Holbrook says. “It’s really up to the site to determine what the scope of the work is,” Holbrook continues, “but the lab internships will put to use the skills students learned over the summer and could include making solutions, stocking re-agents, and writing and interpreting data.” Abbie Zeller ’22 says, “I am not even old enough to vote and will already be doing cancer research.” So far the program has been a rigorous one with students being treated like “burgeoning researchers.” Benson says, “We weren’t treated like high school students. We’re expected to perform at a professional level. It was challenging but really rewarding.”
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The Research Science Scholars at the inaugural lab coat ceremony with Head of School Len Miller (left) and Dr. Holbrook (right).
The program kicked off in the spring with a special lab coat ceremony reminiscent of the white coat ceremonies common in health related professions such as doctors and pharmacists. Texas BioMed CEO and President Dr. Larry Schlesinger spoke at the ceremony about life-long learning and choosing a career in research. Schlesinger said the experience SMH is providing to its students through the program is exciting and unique, and an opportunity for them to learn what science has to offer. “I think sometimes we start a little late,” Schlesinger says. “To be exposed to science early is really critical. You have to feed young people’s and children’s intellectual curiosity.” “It really is all about exposure,” he says, explaining kids need to explore science through such things as visits to the zoo or a science center. “You never know when something clicks in a young mind … but there is a greater chance there may be an epiphany moment.” Schlesinger and Texas BioMed hope to work with the SMH students in the future and there may be some partnership or internship opportunities. This year’s internship placements have been a little more challenging than expected because of the ongoing pandemic. Students currently in the program have all been placed in labs led by a UT Health San Antonio faculty member and the program is well under way for the 2021-2022 school year!
Research scholar Jonathan Tubb ’23 analyzes a DNA sample using a biotechnology technique called DNA gel electrophoresis.
Research Scholar Internships & Mentors Internship: Kathleen Benson ’22 / Director of the Biggs Institute Brain Bank Dr. Kevin Bieniek Research: Neurodegenerative diseases Internship: Jonathan Largoza ’23 / UT Health San Antonio Chair for the Department of Molecular Medicine Dr. Tim Huang and Post Doc Fellow Dr. Li-Ling Lin Research: Biotechnology related to epigenetic and genetic analyses of cancer Internship: Penelope Luna ’22 / The Daisy M. Skinner President’s Chair in Cancer Immunology Research Dr. Tyler Curiel Research: Development of effective therapies for cancer, autoimmunity, infections, and age-related debilities Internship: Elliot Strauch ’23 / UT Health San Antonio Professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases Dr. Senlin Li Research: Development of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT)-based cell and gene therapy Internship: Lauren Strauch ’22 / Associate Professor for UT Health Department for Cell Systems and Anatomy Dr. Alexander Bishop Research: Ewing sarcoma, breast cancer, ataxia telangiectasia, and bloom syndrome Internship: Jonathan Tubb ’23 / Associate Professor for UT Health Department for Cell Systems and Anatomy Dr. Alexander Bishop Research: Bioinformatics related to DNA repair and cancer biology Internship: Abbie Zeller ’22 / UT Health San Antonio Chair for the Department of Molecular Medicine Dr. Tim Huang and post doc fellow Dr. Chih-Wei Chou Research: Epigenetic and genetic analyses of cancer
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Collaboration By Brance D. Arnold
“I
n any good art class you have to learn from your failures,” Middle School Art Teacher BJ Pyrc says as he sits with Lower School Art Teacher Kellen Stanley in her classroom. Exuding creativity, Stanley’s room is adorned with vibrant artwork created by her students. To both teachers, art is a living, evolving expression that is improved and refined as students work through the process of creating art and recognizing their stages of progress even when their work is not perfect. “Because of the lessons art can teach you through failure, you learn more from failure than you do from success in art,” says Pyrc. Born out of the challenges of the pandemic was an unexpected, innovative collaboration among Saint Mary’s Hall Fine Arts teachers. They designed a way for students to not only exhibit and share their work virtually, but also to monitor their progress as they developed their artistic skills. “Something Upper School 2D Drawing & Painting Teacher Logan Blanco and I started to use was Padlet, and we had students post daily progress photos,” shares Pyrc. “So, the fact that this Padlet would document ‘failures’ or ‘hiccups’ provided teachable moments almost every day in every conversation in a safe environment.”
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Padlet is a cloud-based software, hosting a realtime collaborative web platform in which users can upload, organize, and share content to virtual bulletin boards called “padlets.” “We’re still collecting pieces, but I think the role technology has played has been a game changer through collections, creating shows, and exhibitions,” says Pyrc. The teachers created a virtual show to feature student artwork from Lower, Middle, and Upper School. The creative works were presented on the SMH Visual Arts Virtual Exhibition website. Pyrc presents a famous artwork for class discussion and reflection. As part of his Art Talk Tuesdays, he invites colleagues who have experienced the artwork firsthand to bring insight to the class.
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Stanley’s students learn how to give their best attention to each other as a community with video for referencing.
“To digitize and document Form 5 students’ work, and in the context of art, was amazing. I think that’s something that I don’t know I would have done if the pandemic didn’t make it necessary,” shares Stanley. “What this website and archive really did is provide an opportunity for students to choose a portfolio of their best work in their eyes, practice documenting what that artwork looks like, and putting it on something like Google. This will live with them; they’ll add on to it; and they’ll always be able to refer to it. That’s a skill that, if you’re going to be a professional artist, you need.” Form 5 students also had the opportunity to give instructions for Upper School artists in 3D and Art History Instructor Nate Cassie’s class to create an art installation in a site-specific space. “It was really nice to take a walk and go see this space, but also to say, ‘your idea could possibly be turned into a physical installation, built by one of our Upper School sculpture and design students,’ ” explains Stanley. “So then it shifted to Mr. Cassie’s class taking on this project, most of them were at home, and turned into at-home installations in windows and other home spaces.” These collaborations among Fine Arts colleagues and among students brought a much needed outlet for expression, providing some hope and comfort during a difficult time. “Showing students on the Clevertouch the artwork from the website, they would see the works of their friends or upperclassmen, and it really brought a connection to those students that they needed during that time,” shares Stanley.
“I would say the website and just the need to create during this time were important,” says Pyrc. “Students could go further and share more. They had more raw emotion during the pandemic than they ever had before. It was their outlet. It was their way to deal with what was going on. It was their way to kind of process where they were with the everchanging world.” Visit www.smhfineart.com to view virtual student art.
…I think the role technology has played has been a gamechanger through collections, creating shows, and exhibitions. – BJ Pyrc Middle School Art Teacher
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Around the Hall
Upper School Students Create Projects for National History Day The Saint Mary’s Hall Social Studies Department was extremely proud as every SMH National History Day project made it to the awards podium at the San Antonio regional competition. Several projects received special awards in STEM and Military History. Christopher Chan ’24 received the top prize - Outstanding Regional Entry, for his documentary, The Reinvention of Storytelling.
Other Winners: Isabella Nava ’24 and Analia Rivera ’24 1st Place Group Website
Noah Shamieh ’24 and Sani Karkar ’24 2nd Place Group Exhibit
Grace Alcott ’24 2nd Place Individual Website and STEM in History Award
Sophie Holder ’24 and Phoebe Kopplin ’24
Megan Liu ’24 and Matthew Medellin ’24 2nd Place Group Website
Will Carter ’24
Sofia Bishop ’24 2nd Place Individual Exhibit
Ria Mehta ’24, Campbell Cage ’24, and Ines Wallisch ’24
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2nd Place Group Documentary 3rd Place Individual Website and Military History Award 3rd Place Group Documentary
Around the Hall
SMH Shines Through Winter Storm This February was challenging due to Winter Storm Uri, which caused power and water outages and weather-related complications, including limited internet service, for many students, faculty, staff, and families. Despite the difficulties faced, a warm light of hope, support, and care shone through the fray as the community came together in a time of need. Though many faculty and staff shared the same challenges as families, this did not stop teachers and administrators from reaching out to students and their families to check in on them to make sure they were safe and to help if needed. In fact, students from all Form levels were provided a way to reconnect with their teachers and friends, and share stories of their snow day experiences over Zoom and other software. Art offerings were also available to students. Some students took the opportunity to help those in need in the San Antonio community. From distributing blankets and coats to the homeless, to sharing water and power with neighbors, families helped one another and the broader community. Even if it was as simple as a warm shower or hot meal, the SMH community banded together and persevered during a time of tremendous challenge. However, in the midst of the hardships, SMH families found a way to spend quality time and enjoy the snow by building snowmen, making snow angels, and sledding down hills. Students even showed their Baron Pride by taking photos with their SMH Proud signs in the snow.
“Souper Bowl” Food Drive Exceeds Goal Last Spring, the Middle School Community Service Council organized a “Souper Bowl” Canned-Food Drive. The goal was 550 cans, but by joining up with the Middle School Sports Council, the two organizations collected more than 750 cans for the San Antonio Food Bank. To assist in the drive, the Sports Council made flyers to publicize the collection and awarded intramural points to the Bennetts or Baileys teams who participated. After the drive was over, Sports Council sponsors and Middle School Social Science Teachers Brian Fleming and Joe Karpman delivered the donation to the food bank. The competition was extremely close, and there were only three points separating the teams, but the Bennetts ultimately won. This food drive is just another example of Barons giving back to the San Antonio community through service.
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Saint Mary’s Hall Welcomes New Coaches Saint Mary’s Hall is excited to welcome new coaches to the Athletics Department. Here’s some info about these talented new hires:
Hector Cano joined SMH as a Physical Education Coach, Director of Sports Performance & Athletic Mindset, and Director of Soccer and Head Coach of Varsity Women’s Soccer. Cano returns to SMH from Ysleta High School in El Paso. Previously at SMH, Cano served as Director of Soccer and Head Coach of Varsity Women’s Soccer and Sports Performance Coordinator. He holds more than 12 years of coaching experience, coaching at the U. S. Air Force Academy, club levels in Texas and Colorado, and at the semi-professional level in Europe. Cano retired from the Air Force as a Master Sergeant after 20 years of honorable service. He has a Bachelor of Science in Business Management & Exercise Science from Wayland Baptist University and a Master of Science in Sports Management & Administration from University of the Incarnate Word. Valerie Lohr joined SMH as Coordinator of Student Well-Being and Head Coach of Varsity Field Hockey. Lohr hails from Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania. For USA Hockey, she was a Regional Head Coach & Selector and Futures/Nexus National Tournament Head Coach. Lohr earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History from Lehigh University and a Juris Doctorate from Penn State’s Dickinson School of Law. Playing field hockey and lacrosse at Lehigh, she spent four years at Dickinson College as an assistant for the Red Devils’ field hockey and women’s lacrosse programs. She was named to the Dickinson College Hall of Fame. Lohr also teaches Upper School Health and Wellness. Mark McNeill joined SMH as Director of Admission Outreach and Varsity Head Lacrosse Coach. McNeill hails from Magothy River Middle School, where he taught 6th grade math. He is a professional lacrosse midfielder for the Archers LC (Premier Lacrosse League). McNeill graduated from St. Mary’s High School of Annapolis and was a 2010 Under Armour AllAmerica selection. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Management & Society from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), where he played lacrosse and football. Since graduating from UNC, McNeill has spent the last seven years coaching various age groups.
Middle School Last Blast The annual Middle School end-of-year celebration, known as Last Blast, returned this spring after being cancelled in the 2019-2020 school year due to COVID-19. The Form 8 council leaders and their sponsors, with the help of the Athletics Department, planned and supervised an afternoon full of fun. Middle School Barons started their celebration with a pizza picnic lunch on the Kelleher Family Pavillion. Afterwards, students enjoyed the company of their classmates as they played a variety of games such as nuke’em, four square, kickball, and a PE game called “biads.” Virtual students participated in online trivia games. The celebration also included a photo booth where students could safely gather with friends to capture some fun memories. The event concluded with an ice cream social. After a year of virtual learning and social distancing, the Middle School Last Blast was a great way to provide Barons with the togetherness that is so crucial to the SMH experience.
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Around the Hall
Saint Mary’s Hall Builds New Lacrosse Wall Thanks to donations from the SMH community, a new lacrosse wall was added to the School’s alreadyimpressive athletic facilities. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in May, celebrating the completion of the wall. The lacrosse wall is located near the SMH softball field behind the Lower School and will be available for multiple sports to use for practice purposes.
Baron Athletes: Spring College Signing This Spring, the Athletics Department honored six student-athletes who have made the decision to play sports at the collegiate level, including four basketball players, one field hockey player, and one soccer player. These student-athletes include: Hunter Darling ’21 — basketball at Covenant College, Lookout Mountain, Georgia David Flores ’21 — soccer at Anna Maria College, Paxton, Massachusetts Rodney Hunter ’21 — basketball at Schreiner University, Kerrville, Texas Lindsay Martin ’21 — lacrosse at Occidental College, Los Angeles, California Luke Phillips ’21 — basketball at Haverford College, Haverford, Pennsylvania Gavin Walker ’21 — basketball at Florida Memorial University, Miami, Florida During a Signing Day Ceremony on Lewis Field, these outstanding student-athletes celebrated their college-sport careers with their families and the SMH coaches who guided them along the way. A total of 14 members of the Class of 2021 went on to play college athletics.
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Form 5 Presents Channel 1 News In March, all Lower School students were treated to this year’s Form 5 Original Drama Production, Channel 1 News. The show was a unique endeavor that catered to the hybrid learning format, ensuring both on-campus and virtual learners were able to take part in the production. Students worked together to create, write, and perform the show during Drama class. Their final scenes were filmed at home in front of green screens and were recorded on Zoom. Then, they edited with backgrounds, sounds, and special effects to complete the video. It was a unique production for a unique time, created from start to finish by Saint Mary’s Hall students.
Class of 2021 Participates in “Adulting Workshops” Seniors had the opportunity to participate in “adulting workshops” in the Spring, where they learned valuable life skills as they enter their adulthood. At one such workshop, Upper School Science Teacher Dr. Jamie Holbrook hosted a cheese making and charcuterie session. Izzy Castillo ’21 won the “Charcuterie Award” for her homemade mozzarella cheese and most visually appealing charcuterie board arrangement. At another workshop, former Form 7 Math Teacher Steve Hudson and Educational Technology Coordinator Matt Montez taught a lesson on “Starting Your Own Business,” based on their experience with their small-batch coffee roasting business. Drawing from his experience in technology, Montez concentrated on the numbers and equipment side of starting a business, while Hudson was able to talk about the marketing and mission side of owning a small business. These workshops are yet another example of how Saint Mary’s Hall is preparing students for fulfillment in life!
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Around the Hall
SMH Alumni Artists Inspire Students The Fine Arts Department is proud of the many successes of alumni in the arts since their graduation, and the school often invites them back to speak to current students. This year’s alumni artists ranged from recent graduates in college, to Speech & Debate students who returned to SMH as coaches, to an artist who graduated in the 1960s and whose son is now a successful artist in his own right. Here are some of the artists who visited campus: SMH alumnae Margaret ’16 and Alicia ’16 Amberson visited Sculpture and Design Seniors via Zoom. They shared their creative and educational journeys as well as information about their company, Sorella Clothing Co. The company is a fashionforward elevated shooting sports/ranch-wear line in women’s and children’s clothing. Micaela Hogan ’17 spoke to Upper School 3D and Art History Instructor Nate Cassie’s class about
her college experience and journey discovering her passion for art history. She shared some of the skills she has gained in taking art history classes, studying abroad, and participating in internships where she found a passion for her current field. Artist Bettie Ward ’65 joined Senior Studio Practice Sculpture and Design students on a Zoom to discuss her artwork and her journey as an artist. Additionally, she talked about her son Pendleton Ward’s work as an animator, screenwriter, producer, and voice actor who is the creator of the Emmy Award-winning animated series Adventure Time. Additional alumni guest artists included Alexia Salingaros ’16, who held a mini residency where she instructed students on professional coloring techniques, and guest Speech & Debate coaches Dyana Martinez ’16, Alex Jimenez ’19, Marshall Webb ’16, and Shilpa Gunuganti ’20.
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Innovative Teacher Named Science Education Award Winner Whether it’s making s’mores with Bunsen burners, hot air balloon projects for gas laws, or teaching the colligative property of freezing-point lowering by turning milk and cream into ice cream, Upper School Chemistry Teacher Kenny Hoang’s engaging lessons resonate with his students. Recently, the Texas Biomedical Forum and the V.H. McNutt Memorial Foundation recognized Hoang for his innovative teaching with the Science Education Award. Hoang was awarded $2,000 for the submission of his project, Environmental Chemistry and the Sustainability of Aquaponic Systems as a Viable Alternative/Solution to World Hunger and Earth Sustainability. Aquaponics serves as a viable alternative to grow both animals and plants for food Photo courtesy of Super Q Photography. in a sustainable way, while also decreasing humans’ carbon footprint in an effort to prevent the depletion of Earth’s natural resources. The method uses less space and resources, produces crops faster and at higher yields, and eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers and additives by utilizing the symbiotic relationship between fish and plants. The project is taking place during the 2021-2022 academic year in SMH Chemistry I classes.
SMH Celebrates Coffee Shop Opening Last Spring, Saint Mary’s Hall opened its very own retail coffee shop! It offers drinks, pastries, and snacks to students, faculty, and staff. The opening of the shop was spearheaded by SMH Chief Financial Officer Vicky Bates, who worked with SAGE Dining Services® to get the brand-new community resource up and running. Students had the fun opportunity to officially name the coffee shop. The winning name, which was Baronista, was announced during a grand opening/ribbon cutting ceremony held in the CoatesSeeligson Theater/Chapel. The shop now operates out of the concession stand at the McCombs Family Athletic Complex.
34 | Saint Mary’s Hall
Around the Hall
Fine Arts Performances Return to Campus While the Tobin School of Fine Arts at Saint Mary’s Hall is very happy to have allowed students to continue to showcase their performances digitally, it was no replacement for live, in-person shows. Towards the end of the school year, as COVID-19 cases began to drop and restrictions decreased, the Fine Arts Department was able to host a number of small, physically-distanced performances on campus. The first on-campus event came in April, when the Dance faculty invited a limited number of Form 5 Dance parents to a showcase of the Form 5 Dance Solos from the Lower School Dance Production, The Magic Toy Box. In addition, selections from the Middle/Upper School production of Swan Lake were showcased to a limited number of family members. In May, a live concert version of The Last Five Years, a musical by Jason Robert Brown, was performed in the outdoor Zeller Theater. The production starred Callie Tibbetts ’21 and Clark Webb ’21, with musical direction by Middle and Upper School Vocal Music Teacher and Assistant Band Director Jaime Ramirez.
for an optional music concert. The first night of performances featured the Middle School Strings Ensemble, Middle School Chorus Club, Upper School Vocal Ensemble (Vocal Integration Project), and the Upper School Chamber Orchestra at the Zeller Theater. The second night of performances saw the Middle and Upper School Bands perform on Lewis Field for an invited audience. As with the dance performances, all productions were held outdoors and with physical distancing.
Also in May, Middle and Upper School musicians had the opportunity to perform live on campus
Poetry Slam Hybrid Style With Saint Mary’s Hall committing to hybrid education for the safety of students and community during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lower School Language Arts Teacher Jane Viccellio, who now teaches Form 5, had to get creative with her Form 3 annual Poetry Slam. Students performed their memorized and original pieces on campus and from home for their parents. With all of the challenges of the last year, faculty were creative and resilient, finding ways to keep traditions alive and engage their students with fun activities.
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Alumni News Saint Mary’s Hall Names a New Director of Alumni Relations Last Spring, Saint Mary’s Hall proudly announced the appointment of Nancy Lee Archer ’16 as the new Director of Alumni Relations. No stranger to Saint Mary’s Hall, Archer began her SMH journey as a Form 5 student in 2008 and subsequently graduated in May of 2016. She attended the University of Oklahoma where she majored in English Literature, largely crediting the influence of the English faculty at SMH. Archer returned to campus in December of 2020 as a Teaching Fellow and worked closely with faculty in the Middle and Upper School. She assumed her new role as Director of Alumni Relations in June, to begin the 2021-2022 school year. “What drew me back to the Saint Mary’s Hall community was its people. The administration, coaches, faculty, and staff continue to impress me with their innovative ideas and dedication to providing a robust learning environment for their students. This year more than ever, there is an unparalleled sense of joy and excitement that fills the hallways, classrooms, studios, and athletics complex. I am proud to be part of a community that is constantly striving for excellence in all aspects of the student experience,” says Archer.
“What drew me back to the Saint Mary’s Hall community was its people.” As Saint Mary’s Hall enters another school year, the connection to the Alumni Association is at the forefront. Assistant Head of School for Advancement Jim Bob Womack believes, “Nancy Lee’s appointment represents our commitment to connect with alumni from around the globe and across generations. Alumni are the future of our School, and through our alumni program under Nancy Lee’s leadership, we will create new opportunities for alumni to engage and positively impact everything we do at SMH. We are lucky to have her return home to lead the way!” By investing in the alumni program, SMH will foster the unique connection shared by alumni since 1879. Through engaging speaker events, regional travel to visit alumni, Alumni Reunions, the growth of the alumni network, and much more, the Alumni Office is actively working to connect alumni to the school, to faculty, and to each other. “As an alumna, granddaughter of an alumna, and a staff member of Saint Mary’s Hall, I am inspired by the overwhelming devotion that our community has for excellence in education,” says Archer. “This year, I am eager to hear stories from our alumni about their time as students at SMH, so we can learn from their unique experiences and ensure the longevity of our great school.”
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Alumni
The Future of the Alumni Program Alumni Events & Travel
Alumni Association President Kenneth Bethune ’01 and Director of Alumni Relations Nancy Lee Archer ’16 will work closely together to plan and execute alumni events for graduates of all ages to attend this year. SMH will hit the road with visits to Austin, Waco, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, College Station, and New York City.
Alumni Taskforce The School, under the leadership of Bethune and Archer, will also convene an Alumni Taskforce to provide guidance to the Alumni Office as we build for the future. The taskforce will look at the current SMH alumni program, ask alumni about their hopes and interests, study best practices from around the country, and make recommendations for future investment.
Student Alumni Association Archer is proud to lead the Student Alumni Association with Co-Presidents Camila Alvarez ’22 and Peyton Randolph ’22. Under their leadership, the Student Alumni Association will play a vital role in creating and maintaining relationships between current students and alumni through a variety of initiatives that aim to foster SMH connections across the country. They will actively engage students and alumni through Alumni-Mentor Day, alumni mailings, and more.
Alumni Volunteers Needed The Alumni Office needs volunteers! We are focused on enhancing our College Ambassador Program, where we will have alumni representing each college where our graduates currently attend to provide support and community for fellow Barons. In addition, we are also building a Class Agent Program, where several alumni from each graduating class will help our office stay connected to alumni across the country by collecting class notes and contact information updates, and coordinating class attendance for milestone celebrations during Alumni Reunion Weekend.
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Alumni Gatherings 2020 Distinguished Alumni and Momentum Awards Distinguished Alumni Award Dr. Emily Benson ’91 is an orthopedic trauma surgeon who specializes in complex long bone and peri-articular fractures. She obtained her undergraduate degree at Brown University and her Doctor of Medicine at Boston University. She completed her internship and orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Massachusetts. After finishing her orthopedic residency, she completed an additional orthopedic trauma fellowship with San Diego Orthopedic Trauma and Fracture Specialists. Benson is currently serving as Director of the Orthopedic Surgery Department at the Ventura County Medical Center and Associate Program Director for the Community Memorial Hospital Orthopedic Residency Program. In 2018, she developed a non-profit organization called Viet Cal, which is an orthopedic exchange program between the United States and Vietnam. Each year, she takes a team of orthopedic surgeons and residents to remote areas of Vietnam to collaborate with local orthopedic surgeons on challenging cases. Her passions also include surfing, triathlons, and spending time with her family.
Momentum Award San Antonio brothers Francisco ’12 and Tomas ’13 Pergola both possess strong entrepreneurial spirits. Together they dreamed of creating the perfect snack. Their kitchen became their second home as they hand rolled batch after batch of crackers. Their company, Cheddies, was founded in 2016, and is the result of trial and error, hard work, and real ingredients. Cheddies is an all-natural high protein cheese cracker whose main ingredient is real cheddar cheese. Originally a healthy snack for diabetics and dialysis patients in the San Antonio area, Cheddies are now available on Amazon and in more than 700 retail stores nationwide, including all H-E-B stores in Texas. Francisco Jose Pergola ’12 is an experienced designer with a Master of Architecture and Industrial Design from Kansas State University. As the co-founder of Cheddies, his role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) has strengthened his leadership skills and enabled him to create a clear plan of action for bringing healthier snacking options to an ever-growing market. Before becoming the CEO, Francisco worked as an intern in Concept and Research Development at Overland Partners. Tomas Ezequiel Pergola ’13 is a San Antonio native and the proud co-founder of Cheddies. His journey with Cheddies started in March of 2016 while he was completing his Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communications and Business Administration from Baylor University. Immediately after graduating in 2017, Tomas and his brother Francisco committed themselves full time to growing their business. 38 | Saint Mary’s Hall
To nominate alumni, visit smhall.org/alumni-award-nomination
Alumni
2021 Virtual Alumni Reunion While SMH was unable to host Alumni Reunion Weekend on campus this year, the Alumni Office and Alumni Association President Kenneth Bethune ’01 hosted a Virtual Alumni Reunion program to honor and celebrate the Saint Mary’s Hall alumni connection. Bethune reminded our alumni community that Alumni Reunion Weekend is a time for reconnecting, reminiscing, and giving thanks to SMH for making a difference in our lives. He introduced the 2020 Momentum Award recipients Francisco ’12 and Tomas ’13 Pergola who offered praise to their teachers at SMH for providing the right nudges in the classroom to keep exploring their interests and passions at an early age. The 2020 Distinguished Alumni recipient, Dr. Emily Benson ’91, echoed similar sentiments by thanking her parents and Saint Mary’s Hall for seeing something special in her that needed support and nurturing from one of a kind faculty, staff, and coaches. The program continued with a message from Head of School Len Miller emphasizing the School’s mission to focus on the student experience and build a culture of belonging on campus. Finally, Upper School Science Teacher and Women’s Soccer Coach Brian Kaestner was honored for his 40 years of service to SMH. Kaestner gave alumni a glimpse into his story as a faculty member who helped define the SMH experience for four decades. He shared that he and his family have remained at SMH all these years because of the people in this special school community. Kaestner concluded his message by reminding alumni that every teacher’s secret wish is to have their students move on from their class to make the world a better place. He urged alumni to send their former teachers a simple “thank you” to pay tribute to their connection. Over the last two years, we missed the chance to celebrate reunions. We look forward to honoring classes that end in 0, 1, 2, 5, 6, & 7 this spring during the 2022 Alumni Reunion Weekend.
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Alumni Class Notes
Alumni, have you heard from us lately? Do you have great news to share with your fellow SMH alumni? Maybe you landed your dream job, got married, had a baby, or have another exciting story to share. Tell us about it! Visit www.smhall.org/alumniclassnotes and fill out the online form to update your contact information and tell us about your life updates.
1960s SMH extends its gratitude to Elaine Seidel Redburn Hinds ’43 and the staff of South Texas: The Newsletter for sharing information for use in our Alumni Class Notes.
Toyja Kelley ’94 is The Daily Record ’s 2021 Leadership in Law award winner, which recognizes legal professionals in Maryland for dedication to their occupation and communities. Kelley was the 2011 Momentum Award recipient.
1940s Patricia Gill Richardson ’42 is celebrating and enjoying life with her six great grandchildren.
1950s
Bitsy Glasscock Duperior ’57, Sue McCurdy Hosterman ’57, Roxie Catto Hayne ’57, Cachita Searcy Finn ’57, Mimi Austin Hart ’57, Eleanor Oliver Petty ’57, Nancy Hill Martin ’57, and Valerie Urschel Guenther ’57 (pictured l-r) gathered at Paloma Blanca to celebrate their 64th reunion.
40 | Saint Mary’s Hall
Bettie Ward ’65 joined Senior Studio Practice Sculpture and Design students on Zoom from her home in Santa Fe to discuss her work and journey as an artist. Ward shared images of artworks from her collection of prints, drawings, paintings, sculpture, and embroideries. She also answered questions from students about her life and growth as a professional artist.
1990s Elizabeth Flavin Crawford ’90 was interviewed by Nitya Patel and Emily Harris as part of Upper School Math Teacher Jose Molina’s Where Are They Now? Alumni Interview. Crawford is CEO of Sendero Wealth Management, a private wealth management firm offering personalized investment strategies to help protect, preserve, and grow wealth responsibly.
Katy Rouse David ’96 is an experienced tax lawyer who works at Steptoe & Johnson PLLC. Last spring, David served as a guest speaker at Middle School Chapel where she talked with students about her experience as a “Lifer” at Saint Mary’s Hall, her college academic journey, and her professional work as a lawyer.
2000s Randi Mabry ’09 was interviewed by Emily Harris ’22 and Katherine Drawert ’22 as part of Upper School Math Teacher Jose Molina’s Where Are They Now? Alumni Interview. Mabry spoke about her journey as an artist and offered reflections about her time at Saint Mary’s Hall.
Alumni
Lauren Miller ’09 is an Associate practicing Estate Planning and Probate Law at Langley & Banack in San Antonio, Texas. Miller received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Texas in 2013, her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Our Lady of the Lake University in 2015, and her Juris Doctorate from St. Mary’s University School of Law in 2019.
intern at Christie’s in New York City and at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe. To learn more about Brown and Mindset Makers, visit themindsetmakers.com.
2010s Paige Cheatham ’14 returns to Saint Mary’s Hall this year as one of four new members of the Saint Mary’s Hall Board of Trustees.
Rachel Brown ’15 is the CEO and Artist of her business Mindset Makers. Evolving from an Instagram page with inspiring tips for adopting a healthy mindset to a successful art and retail business, Mindset Makers offers art and insight into ways to live a healthy life and promote self-care. Brown graduated from Texas Christian University in 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts in Art History and a minor in Studio Art. Taking her passion and love for art across the country, she worked as an
Victor Sanchez ’15 is a Southern Methodist University graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in Management from the Cox School of Business, and currently works as an analyst at Valero. On March 24, he served as a guest speaker at the Student Equity Collective (SEC) meeting in the Upper School. Sanchez challenged the members to embrace diversity, to support their classmates, and to act with bravery and honor. Rachel Miller ’16 graduated from Pitzer College and is now working as a Project Manager for Reddit, where she manages different teams, engineers, and designers. Miller is passionate about ethics and diversity in tech and product management.
and Government.
2020s
Eli Greenberg ’21 was presented with the Exceptional Senior Award. This prestigious award is presented to seniors across Texas’ 21st Congressional District for the graduating Class of 2021. Students who receive this award consistently display high levels of character, leadership, integrity, and diligence through their philanthropic activities, academic success, and reputations among peers and teachers. Itza Martinez ’21 was extended an offer to become a general reporter for The Daily Texan, the student newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin and the oldest newspaper in the South. In September, Martinez published her first article about UT-Austin being ranked among the top 10 best public universities across the U.S.
Mary Corinne Archer ’18 is the Texas Alpha Chapter President of Pi Beta Phi at The University of Texas at Austin, where she is double majoring in History and Government.
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In Memoriam Alumni
Community Members
Mary Ann Huber nee Mary Ann Myerscough Class of 1939 April 13, 2021
Linda Lee Hill Dreyer June 10, 2021 Grandmother of Caroline Hill (Lena-Hill) Brysacz ’17
Gloria Galt Class of 1941 January 5, 2021
Helene Riklin July 5, 2021 Mother and grandmother of Tomme R. Moore ’71, Sara E. Beck ’95, Morgan A. Riklin ’10, and Marina E. Riklin ’14
Virginia Payne nee Virginia (Ginnie) Pomeroy Webb Class of 1946 August 30, 2021 Nell Capt nee Nell Kennedy Owens Class of 1947 May 8, 2021 Linda McSween nee Linda Ann Lewis Class of 1957 August 22, 2021 Roberta Benson nee Roberta Lee House Class of 1958 February 13, 2021 Suzanne Canavan nee Suzanne Womack Class of 1960 March 20, 2021
James Branton July 19, 2021 Grandfather of Lucas Branton Rico, Form 7, and Sophia Elena Rico, Form 9
Patricia Edith Marlowe July 7, 2021 Mother and grandmother of Russell Scott Marlowe ’86 and Tessa Belle Marlowe ’22 Louise K. Baumholtz July 11, 2021 Grandmother of Myles Baumholtz, Form 8, and Audrey Baumholtz, Form 5 Nancy Emma Ray Pawel July 15, 2021 Grandmother of Margaret Elisabeth (M.E.) Jonas ’10 and Myles Standish Jonas ’19 Mark Jay Sideman July 17, 2021 Father of Caroline Sideman Meador ’93
Merry Fuller nee Merry (Mimi) Hardin Vickers Class of 1967 June 7, 2021 Gloria Searcy nee Gloria Urrutia Class of 1969 April 28, 2021 Gordon Custer Leland, Jr. Class of 1996 February 11, 2021
Faculty/Staff Hugh A. Fitzsimons III May 16, 2021 History Teacher
Ann Ludlow Thayer April 20, 2021 Form 2 Teacher
Janet Tips Rowe February 13, 2021 Art Teacher
*This list contains information received January 1, 2021-September 15, 2021
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Curtis C. Gunn, Jr. February 2, 2021 SMH Board of Trustees
A Message from the Head of School
Dear Saint Mary’s Hall, Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Great schools balance three polarities. First, they know how to provide rigor on one end of the spectrum, but do so within a community of support at the other end. Secondly, great schools know how to meet the needs of individual students, and at the same time they know how to build community around common connection and vision. And thirdly, great schools know how to sustain the very best of its cherished traditions, and yet they know how to innovate to meet the challenges of a changing world. These polarities I like to call rigor and support, community and the individual, and tradition and innovation. “Tradition and Innovation” is the theme of this issue of The Shield, and we are excited to share many of the new programs and enhanced initiatives that are helping SMH deliver on our long-standing promise to prepare our students “for success in college and fulfillment in life.” We approach innovation by first knowing our mission, our values, and our traditions. To this end, SMH provides a transformational academic and lifepreparation experience through deep learning of the liberal arts within a close-knit community where students are known. From that core commitment, our faculty members are dedicated to and have become education experts.
Head of School Len Miller
We are seeing incredible changes within the field of education, and it is our ambition that Saint Mary’s Hall become a leader in the national conversation about how to best educate students for the future. We possess the resources and the human talent to make a significant impact on this educational dialogue, but more importantly, our commitment also results in a profound day-to-day impact on the lives of our students. Our team is committed to knowing best practices, child development, and a deep understanding of the world in its complexity.
Sincerely,
Len Miller Head of School
“The past 18-plus months have been riddled with tough choices - for our kids, for our families, and for our community. I know how lucky we feel to be part of a school community that has made the commitment to get our kids back on campus safely and continue to provide them with the best possible experience. Like so many schools across the country, SMH has been faced with countless changes – in protocol, in equipment, and in operation in order to maintain the level of service we have come to expect from our School … we as a family have made a conscious shift in our giving in order to help support the needs of our School. We are so grateful to be part of the SMH community and want to help strengthen it even further by supporting The SMH Fund and we hope you will come along side us and show your support of the school, teachers, and faculty members who continue to make this such a special place.”
- Lindsay Bolner ’01
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Volume XVI, Issue II – Fall 2021 The Shield
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Saint Mary’s Hall has a large reserve of historical photos. In each issue of The Shield, we will include an unidentified photo and ask for your help in identifying the individuals in the photo and what they’re doing. If you know any of these people or have any information about the occasion, please write us at editor@smhall.org or at 9401 Starcrest Drive, San Antonio, TX 78217. Thank you for helping us archive a part of SMH history!
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Volume XVI, Issue II – Fall 2021
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Graduate Makes History as Female Eagle Scout
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Teacher Named Science Award Winner
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Alumni Relations Welcomes New Director