Saint Mary's School Magazine, Fall 2023

Academic EXCELLENCE | Personal ACHIEVEMENT | FALL 2023

A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE, PARENTS, AND FRIENDS

Saint Mary's partners with Duke University for inaugural Young Women's Leadership Institute

Board of Trustees 2023-2024 Officers Merritt Atkins ’99 – Chair Tiffany Miller Clark ’82HS – Vice Chair Julian Williamson P’18, ’23 - Secretary Jean Redding ’72HS – Treasurer Liza M. Roberts P’19, ’24 – Past Chair

Members-at-Large Merritt Atkins ’99, Raleigh, North Carolina Diane Gupton Becton ’77HS, Raleigh, North Carolina Martin Borden P’18, Raleigh, North Carolina April Browne ’88HS ’91C, Durham, North Carolina Catherine Bryant ’12, Raleigh, North Carolina Hope Derby Carmichael P’24, Raleigh, North Carolina Tiffany Miller Clark ’82HS, Raleigh, North Carolina Elizabeth Patteson Dixon ’80HS, P’18, Raleigh, North Carolina Ken Howard P’11, Raleigh, North Carolina Earl Johnson III P’09, Raleigh, North Carolina Sheila McLamb ’75HS, Calabash, North Carolina Janie Swain Molster ’78HS, Richmond, Virginia Sally Pelletier ’77HS ’79C, Baltimore, Maryland Susan Creech Rankin ’74HS, P’11, Charlotte, North Carolina Jean Redding ’72HS, Atlanta, Georgia Will Rideout P’22,’24, Raleigh, North Carolina Liza M. Roberts P'19, ’24, Raleigh, North Carolina D. Ward Russell P’20, Raleigh, North Carolina Charles A. Sanders, M.D., Durham, North Carolina Sallie Shuping-Russell ’75C, Chapel Hill, North Carolina Maura Moylan Sullivan ’87HS, P’15,’19, Durham, North Carolina Melissa Morrisette Tillman ’88HS, P’23, Raleigh, North Carolina Heather Clark Warren ’89HS ’91C, Raleigh, North Carolina Julian Williamson P’18,’23, Raleigh, North Carolina

Mission Statement Saint Mary’s School, a community dedicated to academic excellence and personal achievement, prepares young women for college and life.

FALL 2023 | VOLUME 108, NUMBER 1

Founded in 1842 in the Episcopal tradition, Saint Mary’s School is an innovative independent, college-preparatory, girls boarding and day school dedicated to academic excellence and personal achievement for grades 9-12.

ON THE COVER Read all about Saint Mary's Young Women's Leadership Institute, pages 4-5.

Saint Mary’s School admits girls of any race, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, or sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to our students.

Saint Mary's School does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national and ethnic origin, or sexual orientation in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid programs, or athletic and other school programs.

Administration/Leadership Team Adam Holden, Ed.D., Head of School Shelly Lammon, Assistant Head for Finance and Operations Matthew Olesnevich, Ed.D., Assistant Head for Student Affairs and Residential Faculty Julie Ricciardi, CFRE, Assistant Head for Institutional Advancement Patricia C.A. Sasser, Assistant Head for Academic Affairs Saint Mary’s School Magazine Published twice each year by Saint Mary’s School.

Please send address changes to: Alumnae Office 900 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, N.C. 27603-1689 919-424-4000 www.sms.edu Or update your contact information online or scan the QR code at sms.edu/alumnae/update-my-information.

Editor Mary Virginia Swain ’77C Historian, Author in Residence mvswain@sms.edu Class News Editor Emory Rogers Church ’74C classnews@sms.edu Director of Alumnae Engagement Emily Smith ’01 Director of Alumnae Engagement ersmith@sms.edu Contributors: Adam Holden, Jessica Holden, Eileen Nedoma, Julie Ricciardi, Emily Smith ’01, Mary Virginia Swain ’77C, Brandon Wright Design Lynn Doby Mixx Multimedia Printing Metro Productions

CONTENTS FEATURES 15th Head of School Announcement ..............................2 Young Woman's Leadership Institute .............................4 Forever Campaign ..............................................................6 Commencement ...............................................................10 IN EVERY ISSUE Head of School Message ��������������������������������������������������� 3 Admission ������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 8 Student Achievement ������������������������������������������������������ 14 Under the Lamps............................................................... �15 Calendar Highlights ���������������������������������������������������������� 16 Supporting Saint Mary's ��������������������������������������������������� 18 Events �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������21 In Memoriam ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 33 Milestones........................................................................... 34 Class News ������������������������������������������������������������������������� 36 Alumnae News....................................................................78

Dr. Adam Holden was installed as Saint Mary’s 15th head of school in a ceremony in the Chapel on Founders’ Day, Friday, Nov. 3, 2023. The Rt. Rev. Anne Hodges-Copple presided.

Left to right: the Rev. Kristin Whittaker, Bishop Hodges-Copple, Audrey Smithwick ’24, Dr. Adam Holden, Dr. Jessica Holden, Molly Joan Lanahan ’24, Masie Cahn ’25, Janiah Whitby ’24, Chaplain Maggie Stoddard.

Adam Holden, Ed.D., installed as 15th head of Saint Mary's School Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees and Head of School Search Committee announced June 2, 2023, that Adam Holden, Ed.D., has been named the 15th head of school after serving for one school year as interim head of school.

“The search for our 15th head of school was notable for, and enriched by, the love and passion for Saint Mary’s School that our alumnae, faculty, staff, students, parents, and friends brought to the seven-month process,” wrote search committee co-chairs Merritt Atkins ’99 and Stephen Later P’18 in an email letter to all constituents in June. “It is in this spirit that we are delighted to announce that the search committee unanimously and enthusiastically agreed to recommend Adam Holden, Ed.D., to serve as the next leader of our school. We are thrilled that the members of the board of trustees heartily agreed and that they, too, were unanimous in their approval.”

Dr. Holden is an international education leader and educator with more than 30 years of experience. “We are thrilled that Dr. Holden has agreed to become our 15th head of school. His leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence and innovation make him the ideal leader for our school at this time,” says Board of Trustees Chair Liza Roberts. “Dr. Holden also has a deep respect for Saint Mary’s history and culture, an appreciation for our Episcopal heritage, and a love of our community, which he shares with his wife, Dr. Jessica Holden. We are lucky to have them both.”

As an accomplished academic and longtime head of school at schools in the United States and abroad, Dr. Holden is exactly what our school needs now. His extensive experience in school administration, organizational management, strategic planning, and leading teams will be invaluable, while his experience on campuses of many different kinds and in cultures of all sorts will enable him to navigate ours with ease.

Dr. Holden brings significant experience in institutional strategic planning, executive leadership training, in-depth executive coaching, and professional development. He is also an accomplished academic leader. Most recently, he served as President and Head of School at Admiral Farragut Academy in St. Petersburg, Florida; he has also served as

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Executive Director of the Albert Einstein Institute in Panama City, Panama; and has served in senior university leadership positions in the U.K. and U.S. Dr. Holden has the experience and the expertise to offer customized educational consulting that will serve our school well. With his academic expertise, Dr. Holden is positioned to be an ideal leader for Saint Mary's School.

Born near London, England, and raised in the southern part of the United Kingdom, Dr. Holden holds doctorate degrees from the University of Cambridge and California Coast University; an education specialist degree from Fort Hays State University; a master’s degree from Washburn University; and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southampton.

As a doctoral researcher with the University of Cambridge, he spent five years conducting research in Central America developing a mobile educational application to provide high-quality professional development for teachers in marginalized communities.

He is also a highly regarded international speaker on digital innovation in education with keynote engagements in Asia, Europe, North and Central America in recent years, as well as two TEDx presentations. Dr. Holden has multiple publications on digital technologies and Blended Learning, serves on the editorial boards of the Journal of Online Learning Research, and Contemporary Issues in Technology and Teacher Education, and has been a contributor to the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development’s (ASCD) SmartBlog on Education.

Dr. Holden's institutional leadership in education has twice earned the coveted National Blue Ribbon of Excellence Award. While in Panama, Dr. Holden was named a special advisor to the Minister of Education for Online & Digital Learning, and he served on the Ministry of Education Advisory Committee in Pandemic Management for the country of Panama. In this role, he led multiple pilot programs used to define the parameters for the virtual operation of all public schools; and led a team reviewing the national synchronous/asynchronous learning guides while working on the development of the national plan for the reopening of schools across the country of Panama.

MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL Looking to the future with optimism and commitment Dear Saint Mary’s School Community, I sit here with such pride and gratitude as I reflect on my journey from serving as the interim head of school to embracing the honor of leading Saint Mary’s School as the permanent head of school.

This wonderful institution, with its rich heritage of excellence and tradition, stands as a beacon of excellence in women’s education, and I am humbled to be at its helm.

These past few months have been a testament to our community’s resilience and innovation. Our campus has buzzed with exciting improvements, notably the progress in renovating the iconic Pittman Auditorium and the addition of the Blanche Center, a symbol of our commitment to preserving our heritage while advancing towards a future bright with possibilities. Equally thrilling are the plans for our state-of-the-art STEM building, a project that promises to further empower our girls in their academic pursuits.

Our collaboration with Duke University for the Young Women's Leadership Institute has been very exciting as well. The inaugural summer was a resounding success, bringing together young women and esteemed speakers from diverse fields. This initiative underscores our dedication to nurturing women leaders who will shape the world. As we gear up for the second year, I am filled with anticipation for the continued impact of this empowering program.

The warmth and welcome extended to Jessica and me, (and our beloved French bulldogs Henry and Charlotte, of course), have truly made Saint Mary’s feel like home. This sense of community is a cornerstone of our school, creating an environment where each member feels valued and connected.

Observing our Saint Mary’s girls, faculty, and staff, I am continually impressed by their passion, intelligence, and dedication. It is a privilege to witness the growth of our students and to contribute, even in a small way, to their journey. I am confident that the girls are not only preparing for college and life beyond but are also being equipped to lead at the highest levels across the globe.

As we look forward to the future, I am filled with optimism. Together, we are not just maintaining the legacy of Saint Mary’s School. We are elevating it, ensuring that our girls are ready to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world with confidence and grace.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our shared vision. It is my sincere belief that the best of Saint Mary’s School is yet to come.

Warm regards,

Dr. Adam Holden Head of School Saint Mary's School

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Saint Mary’s partners with Duke University to host first Young Women’s Leadership Institute Saint Mary’s launched its dynamic Young Women’s Leadership Institute this July in partnership with Duke University.

“We were so thrilled to partner with Duke University on this important women’s leadership initiative,” says Saint Mary’s School representative Dr. Jessica Holden. “At Saint Mary’s, we are committed to empowering young women to become leaders and changemakers, and this program was a perfect complement to our school’s mission. We were excited to welcome girls from all over the world to our campus to engage with some of the brightest women leaders in the world.”

The Young Women’s Leadership Institute was designed to provide an unparalleled opportunity for young women to expand their leadership skills and sense of civic responsibility as they considered their own character, leadership, and integrity. This year’s selected cohort actively participated in experiences designed to leverage their unique leadership capacities. Through a dynamic and profound leadership curriculum, skill building activities, active reflection, and scenario-based collaboration opportunities, the program challenged participants to embrace, explore and reflect on what women’s leadership involves at the highest levels, with a view to enhancing the world that we live in.

The Institute was centered around a speaker series of globally recognized women leaders who have made a difference in their field. This year it included tennis sensation Maria Sharapova, NASA astronaut Joan Higginbotham, two-time Olympic gold medalist Mary Whipple, Emmy award-winning NBC News producer Susan LaSalla, NBC News chief environmental affairs correspondent Anne Thompson, North Carolina Museum of Art Director Valerie L. Hillings, U.S. Congresswoman Deborah Ross, Broadway actress and concert soloist Nikki Renee Daniels, founder of A Place at the Table Maggie Kane, Research Scientist at MIT Kate Darling, Professor in the Faculty of Education at Cambridge Elaine Wilson, President of the Consortium on Financing Higher Education (COFHE) Janet Lavin Rapelye, and author and journalist A’Lelia Bundles. The institute also featured a range of workshops, presentations, and activities led by faculty and staff from Saint Mary’s School and Duke University.

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“We were delighted to partner with Saint Mary’s School on the Young Women’s Leadership Institute,” said Dr. Molly Goldwasser, associate vice provost for academic affairs at Duke University and lead instructor of the Young Women’s Leadership Institute. “At Duke, we’re committed to developing the next generation of leaders, and this program provides and incredible opportunity for young women to hone their skills and gain valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in leadership roles.”

This year students participated in an array of activities that fostered selfawareness and collaboration, such as visiting the North Carolina Museum of Art to enjoy a tour surrounding women’s art and how it has evolved over time. Students visited A Place at the Table, Raleigh's first pay-whatyou-can nonprofit café, to learn more about how people can make a difference and give back to their community. They also had a private tour on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., courtesy of five SMS alumnae, Hailey Hart Borden ’12, Jacqueline Collie Baggett ’15, Chandler Mason ’12, Sydney Vermillion ’20, and Izzy Kempson ’20, who provided inside on their current journey as students and professionals in the nation’s capital.

Throughout the two weeks, students were challenged and placed in activities that fostered communication, strategic thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. For example, participants were encouraged to overcome some of their fears and lean on each other by going through the N.C. State High-Low Ropes course.

The Young Women’s Leadership Institute was opened to rising 9th through 12th grade students who are interested in developing their leadership skills and learning from experts in the field. The program covers a wide range of topics, including communication skills, strategic thinking, teamwork, and more.

For more information about the Young Women’s Leadership Institute, or to apply for next year’s program, please visit sms.edu/ywli or email leadership@sms.edu.

By Jessica Holden, Ed.D.

THE PROGRAM Leadership Curriculum

Daily presentations, scenarios, small-group exercises, and discussions surrounding women’s leadership in the modern world.

Speaker Series

A world class lineup of international speakers on differing aspects of women’s leadership.

Presentations, moderated conversations, question and answer sessions.

Fellowship

A series of social outings and opportunities designed to promote fellowship and community within the cohort. Cultural exploration, day trips for local entertianment, and university campus visits.

Be Bold. Be Inspired. Be a Leader. https://youngwomensleadershipinstitute.com

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SAINT MARY'S FOREVER CAMPAIGN Transforming girls' education - our enduring mission Taking leaps of faith to transform girls’ education has long been our mission at Saint Mary’s. The Forever Campaign enters a new year committed to directing our resources to innovate our all-girls curriculum and campus life. We know that girls learn differently than boys. Girls are creative, flexible, and focused, and need spaces that encourage and support their learning. Best of all, we know this brings out the very best in our students and in you, our generous donors.

In the last six months you have answered the call, and your gifts are creating the momentum needed to secure funding for important priorities. On Nov. 2, our Forever Campaign Chairs announced the launch of our public phase of the campaign. To lead us into the final years they also issued a transformational challenge gift of $3,000,000 to inspire giving to our two major capitol projects: The Blanche Robertson Bacon Performing Arts Center, the home of Pittman Auditorium, and our new academic building devoted to STEM (science, technology, engineering, math, and entrepreneurship). What does that mean? For every dollar you devote to these two projects it will be matched, if we raise $3 million the chairs will match that for a total of $6 million.

Discovery drives our ability to set the pace in a fast-changing world. Whether it is the Annual Fund, auction, debt elimination, planned giving, or our facilities priorities, your investment will create spaces for our girls and team to soar!

Perhaps the biggest joy we have is in knowing every gift is making a difference. The world needs confident, forwardthinking women, and we are counting on those who share our firm belief in girls-only education - and those who understand the value of women who can lead and navigate the tremendous opportunities of our time - to join us in ensuring Saint Mary’s Forever by the way - that’s you!.

My sincere hope is that you will: •

See your gifts elevating our mission at Saint Mary’s,

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Share that synergy and encourage others to help us achieve our goals together,

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Consider how to stretch in your philanthropy to continue the incredible experience for our Saints today and for years to come.

Julie Ricciardi Assistant Head of School for Institutional Advancement

Total Progress

Debt

Endowment

The Blanche Center

New Building

Planned Giving

$62M

$4.08M

$9M

$13.9M

$7.01M

$6.7M

Anna Zevenhuizen '07

William and Aurelia Monk P'15

Frank and Ruth E. Perry Holding

Mike and Gloria Taft Becker

'81C P'09

'92HS P'21, '24

Nancy Kerr Thomason '73HS '75C

Chairs’ Challenge: Double Your Impact!

The Saint Mary’s Forever Campaign Chairs and Co-Chairs have come together to collectively double their campaign giving and issue a matching gift challenge. Every gift, up to $3 million, directed towards one of the new facilities projects – either the Blanche Center or the New Academic Building – will be matched and make double the impact.

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Kudos to our 2023 Auction Chairs and our generous donors for providing amazing improvements all over campus including: •

New bleachers for Bacon Gym

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New bleachers on Nimocks Field

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New STEM Robotics Makers Space

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New campus walking/running path

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Revival of our SMS Garden first created by Mary Stiles Rader '11

2023 Auction Chairs: Kelly Seymour P’22,’25; Catherine Rideout P’22,24, Shayla Kirchin Bradshaw ’92C P’23; Rebekah Chiavetta P’23

Thank you, parents, for the amazing Eure-Jones Tennis Courts uplift.

Work has begun on securing the structural beams and roofing necessary to support the renovation and additions. We have incredible naming opportunities available.

Students and parents are already enjoying the improved bleachers in Bacon Gym.

The new campus walking/running path is starting to take shape.

Work has begun on the new canopy and bleachers for Nimocks Field.

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MEET THE ADMISSIONS TEAM

Saint Mary’s Student Body 2023-2024

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SCHEDULE A VISIT TODAY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF AN ALL-GIRLS EDUCATION.

Commencement 2023: Handkerchief drops on 181st session

By Mary Virginia Swain ’77C School Historian, Author in Residence The sights and sounds of Pomp and Circumstance filled the Grove Sunday morning, May 21, 2023, as 91 seniors graduated from Saint Mary’s School.

It was a blue-ribbon Saint Mary’s commencement day in the Grove, as the graduates turned their tassels and Saint Mary’s rings, becoming Saint Mary’s newest alumnae.

In keeping with Saint Mary’s tradition, Student Government Association President Caroline Bradshaw ’23 and Senior Class President Elizabeth Williamson ’23 marched at the head of the line of graduates. The new marshals led the two lines of graduates and the platform party dignitaries from Smedes Hall through the Grove.

As the graduates made their way around Smedes Circle to the center brick walkway for the official procession through The Grove, underclasswomen presented each graduate with an iris to carry and place in the Class of 1987 urn just before stepping onstage to receive her diploma.

The blue iris has long been an iconic symbol of Saint Mary’s rich commencement tradition. Graduates have carried the irises in our commencement procession for decades. Irises bloom each spring all around campus, most notably in the Class of 1904 sundial garden in front of East Rock. The blue iris is a symbol of faith, hope, and wisdom, which makes it a perfect representation of all that a Saint Mary’s commencement embodies – the faith a student has nurtured in her four years in Chapel and

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in our community; the hopes and dreams of a graduate on commencement day; and the wisdom gained through a Saint Mary’s education. Through the years, the iris tradition has evolved and grown into a most beloved part of a Saint Mary’s commencement. The High School Class of 1987 gave the brass urn still used today, as the marshals collect the irises from graduates as they step up to the stage to receive their diplomas. In 2007, the tradition began of underclasswomen giving an iris to a graduating senior just prior to the commencement procession through the Grove. Today, Saint Mary’s iris tradition is stronger than ever, a beautiful symbol of a Saint Mary’s School commencement day.

Saint Mary’s Chaplain Maggie Stoddard offered the invocation. Head of School Adam Holden, Ed.D., welcomed the graduates, their families, and guests.

Valedictorian Isabel Yates ’23 delivered the valedictory address, taking us on a tour of campus memories, building by building, from the Chapel to East Park Science building to Pittman Auditorium, to the Ragland classroom building to the Sun Porch atop Smedes Hall.

Destiny Ellington ’23 delivered the senior commencement address, having been elected by her classmates as the senior commencement speaker. Destiny, who established herself as our poet laureate during her four years at Saint Mary’s, read a poem she composed for

Graduates and marshals process from Smedes Hall before the march through the Grove.

Graduates carry irises for the procession through the Grove.

. aledictorian Isabel Yates ’23 delivers the valedictory address.

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Chief Marshal Janiah Whitby ’24 drops the handkerchief to close the 181st year.

Class of 2023 graduates Anne Haddon Nottingham, Bryson Perry, and Chloe Pigues line up to receive their diplomas.

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The Class of 2023.

The Honors Chorale, under the direction of Jennifer Moran, and accompanied by Dr. Karen Allred, offered special music, Omnia Sol, by Z. Randall Stroope.

Maggie Kane, founder and executive director of A Place at the Table, Raleigh’s first non-profit pay-what-you-can cafe, delivered an inspirational commencement address.

Dr. Adam Holden, head of school, presented the graduates their Saint Mary’s diplomas.

Board of Trustees Chair Liza Roberts introduced the awards portion of the ceremony. Awards were presented by Ms. Roberts, Assistant Head of School Patricia C.A. Sasser, Dean of Students Dr. Anne Aichele, and Dr. Adam Holden.

Following the benediction and the final singing of the year of the School Hymn, Chief Marshal Janiah Whitby ’24 stood at the top of the steps of Smedes Hall, directly beneath the lantern adorned with Saint Mary’s blue ribbons, to drop the handkerchief and declare the 181st session at Saint Mary’s to be officially closed. After the iconic handkerchief drop, the marshals walked into Smedes and closed the doors on another Saint Mary’s commencement, while the graduates joyfully tossed their caps high into the canopy of stately oaks.

The Baccalaureate preceded the commencement exercises in the historic Saint Mary’s Chapel with Chaplain Maggie Stoddard presiding.

Saint Mary’s commencement embodies personal touches of academic

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excellence, personal achievement, friendship, tradition, grace, honor, dignity, and resilience that are hallmarks of the Saint Mary’s experience.

Once again, Saint Mary’s graduating class boasts 100 percent college acceptance to a broad range of outstanding colleges and universities around the nation and abroad. The range of colleges and universities selected by graduates of the Class of 2023 are as varied as the graduates themselves and reflects their wide-ranging interests and personalities.

The Class of 2023 distinguished itself in the hearts of the faculty and staff by its collective kindness, talent, intellect, respectfulness, resilience, commitment to inclusion, loyal friendship, resilience, and support of each other. The graduates will be remembered for their delightful and impactful individual personalities as well as their class unity. Their senior year was a triumphant return to a full year of normal routines and traditions following three years impacted by the COVID pandemic with masks, virtual events, missed traditions, and limitations on gatherings.

Members of the Class of 2023 leaned into all things Saint Mary’s during their senior year and left our traditions back on solid footing for future generations.

“Members of the Saint Mary’s School Class of 2023 are poised to step out of our gates and into an exciting future,” says Adam Holden.

“Prepared at Saint Mary’s for college and life, these graduates have challenged themselves in and out of the classroom, expanded their boundaries, made real-world connections, and grown as young women of intelligence, integrity, and purpose – ready to serve and shape their world.”

COMMENCEMENT AWARDS

Isabel Yates ’23 of Raleigh, was the recipient of the 2023 Cooper Medal, in recognition of achieving the highest G.P.A. for the year.

The Cooper Award was established in 1944

by Fannie Cooper Gilliam ’44C, Mrs. Sterling Gary Gilliam, in memory of her brother, Hill Parham Cooper. Isabel Yates ’23 was the recipient of the 2023 Niles Medal for finishing with the highest G.P.A. over her years at Saint Mary’s. The Niles Medal was instituted in 1905

by Dr. Charles Martin Niles.

Avery Boykin ’23 of Raleigh received the Catherine Ruth Proctor Award, presented by the Saint Mary’s chapter of the National Honor Society in recognition of the student making the greatest scholastic advancement over the past four years. The Proctor Award was established in 1974 in memory of Catherine Ruth Proctor ’75HS.

Cora Lee Goldfield ’23 of Raleigh was the recipient of the Georgia Lee Kinsey Award, presented by Saint Mary’s Chapter of the National Honor Society to the graduate who has accomplished the greatest scholastic advancement over the past two years. The award was established in 1982 by Saint Mary’s College Chi Beta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa in memory of Georgia Lee Kinsey ’81.

Destiny Ellington '23 of Fairburn, Georgia, was chosen to receive the King Medal, awarded each year to the graduate, who, in the opinion of the faculty, has most consistently practiced good citizenship at Saint Mary’s and inconspicuously served as an example to others. The King Medal was established in 1964 by Mr. and Mrs. Madding King of Florence, Alabama.

CC Chiavetta ’23 of Raleigh was voted by her classmates to receive the Margaret and Ann Highsmith Medal, awarded to a graduate who exemplifies the Christian idea of helpfulness to others motivated by her genuine love for all members of the school community. The Highsmith Medal was established in 1969 by Mr. and Mrs. Seavy Highsmith of Fayetteville, North Carolina, in honor of their daughters, Ann Cameron Highsmith ’70HS and Margaret Highsmith Dickson ’67HS.

Anne Haddon Nottingham of Raleigh is the 2023 Marian Drane Graham Award winner, as chosen by a committee of representatives of the alumnae faculty and staff and the student body. This award was established in 1968 as a memorial to Marian Drane Graham, Class of 1919. The award is made each year to a graduate who, in the words of her husband, Dr. Frank Porter Graham, exemplifies Marian’s “reverence and humility of spirit, scholarship without pride of excellence, zest for life, faith and fortitude, and all-around development in the course of her radiant and nobly useful life.”

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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT Isabel Yates ’23 wins National Merit Scholarship Graduating senior Isabel Yates ’23 has been selected as a winner of the National Merit $2500 Scholarship. This scholarship is underwritten by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).

Yates was among 2,500 designees chosen from a talent pool of more than 15,000 Finalists in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program. National Merit $2500 Scholarship winners are the Finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Yates, the valedictorian of Saint Mary’s Class of 2023, entered Princeton University this fall.

National Merit Scholars are selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors, who appraised a substantial amount of information by both the Finalists and their high schools: their academic record including difficulty level of subjects studies and grades earned; scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®); contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the Finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official. The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. Approximately 1.5 million high school students enter the program each year. High School students who meet published program entry and participation requirements enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) at the specified time in the high school program, usually as juniors.

Vivian Shillingsburg ’23 chosen as youth delegate to diocesan convention Saint Mary’s senior Vivian Shillingsburg ’23 and Saint Mary’s staff member and Episcopal Deacon Kristin Whittaker participated in the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina Annual Convention, Nov. 18-19, 2022, at the Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem. Vivian was selected by the Raleigh Convocation clergy to represent the convocation at the convention. Youth Delegates apply explaining why they want to be selected as a delegate.

They must be in good standing at a parish or mission in the Diocese and be between the ages of 16 and 18 as of the convening of the convention. Youth Delegates assist with voter ballot count, registration, and the opening Eucharist, and are runners during the convention for movements from the floor. They serve for both days of the Convention and learn a lot about how the Diocese operates.

Saint Mary's piano students earn honors Three Saint Mary’s students, Morgan Kerr ’24, Amy Lu ’24, and Caroline Yu ’25, earned honor ratings and outstanding evaluations from their adjudicators at the 2023 North Carolina Music Teachers Association sponsored Piano Performance Festival. The District Level of this event, open to students from the greater Triangle Area and surrounding towns, was held Feb. 25 at Meredith College. Amy, Caroline, and Morgan took the challenge of preparing and performing during their Winter Break. Morgan Kerr ’24 earned Highest Honors in her category and advanced to perform her program at the state level.

Requirements for this rigorous event are three solo works performed at high level from memory, chosen from a list of repertoire representing three contrasting stylistic periods from the 18th, 19th, and 20th/21st centuries.

Claire Eveson '26 is horse show champion Rising sophomore Claire Eveson ’26 won grand champion titles at both the North Carolina State Championship and the North Carolina State Fair Horse Show during the past school year.

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UNDER THE LAMPS

Vestry News Congratulations and thank you to the graduating senior Vestry members, recognized last spring for their years of dedication and service to Saint Mary's Chapel. Saint Mary's Vestry is the student leadership group of Saint Mary's Chapel serving as Vestry members do in all Episcopal parishes. Vestry members work side by side with Chaplain Stoddard in stewarding the Chapel and the Chapel Program. Membership on the Vestry has long been considered one of the highest leadership positions at Saint Mary's. Pictured left to right: Eliza Dunn Tillman ’23, Caroline Bradshaw ’23, Raynor Singleton ’23, Kee Griffith ’23, Abbi Powell ’23, Lilly Bryant ’23, Kernissa Robinson ’23, Sara Pratt Armes ’23, Anne Haddon Nottingham ’23, and Elizabeth Williamson ’23.

Executive Student Government Association Officers 2023-2024 Congratulations to the Executive Student Government Officers for the 2023-2024 school year. Pictured, front row left to right: Chief Marshal Janiah Whitby ’24, Day Life Representative Lillian Platto ’24, Vice Chair of Judicial Board Anna Ross Carmichael ’24, Student Life Chair Lucy Whitfield ’24, Senior Class President Ava Spencer ’24; second row: Judicial Board Chair Lilly Chafin ’24, Boarding Life Representative Bryn Montgomery ’24, Secretary Abby Sottini ’24, Vice President Anna Jones ’24, and SGA President Helen Newcomb ’24.

Marshals 2023-2024 Congratulations to the marshals elected by the student body to serve for the 2023-2024 school year.

Pictured left to right: Marion Barber ’24, Cecelia Roberts ’24, Janiah Whitby ’24, Ava Bratten ’24, Mary Susan Rideout ’24, and Addie Bowen ’24.

Beacon News The Beacon, Saint Mary’s honorary leadership society founded in 1948, held inductions in the Chapel in May for officers for the 2023-2024 school year. Pictured front row left to right are new officers Hannah Boyce ’24, Yara Escamilla Jimenez ’24, and Margaret Raynal ’24; second row: Anne Haddon Nottingham ’23, Chloe Coleman ’23, and Destiny Ellington ’23; top row: Chelsea Coleman ’23, Bailey Krepps ’23, Lucy Brimberry ’23, Abby Foreman ’23, and Samara Kayobotsi ’23.

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CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS 2023-2024 December 7-9

Orchesis Fall Concert

December 10

Advent Lessons and Carols in the Chapel 43rd annual Lighting O’ the Grove

January 11, 12 p.m.

San Diego County Alumnae & Friends Luncheon Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar, $25 per person.

More at www.sms.edu/sandiego

January 14, 10:30 a.m.

Los Angeles-area Alumnae & Friends Brunch Little Dom’s, $25 per person.

More at www.sms.edu/losangeles

January 19, 6 p.m.

Los Angeles Young Alumnae Cocktail The Normandie Club (Hotel Normandie), $25 per person.

More at www.sms.edu/LAcocktail

January 31

Palm Beach Alumnae & Friends Luncheon The Beach Club, $25 per person.

More at www.sms.edu/palmbeach.

January 15

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service

February 22-23

Winter musical theater production - Matilda

April 18-19

Orchesis Spring Concert

April 19

Grandparents and Grandfriends Day

April 26-27

Reunion Weekend for classes ending in four and nine

May 19 Commencement for the 182nd session

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Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

“I am honored to be asked by Dr. Adam Holden to take on the challenge of writing the next book of Saint Mary’s history.”

New book of Saint Mary's history in the works A new book about Saint Mary’s history is in the works. Longtime communications staff member and alumna Mary Virginia Swain ’77C began research in March 2023 for an updated history of Saint Mary’s School. The book will chronicle the school’s storied history from 18422024.

Two previous books were commissioned and published by the school.

Both books are out of print, but copies can sometimes be found on eBay, amazon, flea markets, or old bookstores. Life at Saint Mary’s was published by the University of North Carolina Press in 1942 for the school’s centennial celebration. It was edited by Katherine Batts Salley with chapters written by alumnae Katharine Drane Perry, Emilie Smedes Holmes, Alice Dugger Grimes, Nell Battle Lewis, Jane Toy Coolidge, and Anna Brooke Allan. Elizabeth Warren Thompson was art editor.

Martha Sprouse Stoops, distinguished professor emerita of history, wrote The Heritage: The Education of Women at St. Mary’s College, Raleigh, North Carolina, 1842-1982, which was published in 1985. Mrs. Stoops spent a decade researching, writing, and publishing this comprehensive history of the school.

The new book promises to offer a fresh take on the narrative of the school’s history with added details of the years from 1982, when The Heritage ended, to the present; the histories of our beloved buildings and grounds; tributes to our enduring traditions; and many archival and scenic photos. The aim of the book is to update the school’s history and capture the essence of Saint Mary’s for readers both brand new to our school community and those who already know the story well.

“Our alma mater boasts a rich and fascinating history, and it is an immense joy to do this work for Saint Mary’s. Life at Saint Mary’s and The Heritage are tough acts to follow, but I hope to do it justice by retelling the familiar

stories for a new generation of readers and by bringing to light new or yet to be told stories and details, including an update of the past four decades yet to be captured comprehensively in book form.”

Mary Virginia Swain is a 1977 graduate of Saint Mary's College who joined the staff in 1987 as director of college relations. She was recently named school historian and author-in-residence after serving for decades in roles including director of public relations and publications, director of communications, director of college relations, and director of development communications. In her role as editor of publications, school photographer, media relations director, and social media manager, she has chronicled this history of Saint Mary’s as it has happened for more than 36 years. On behalf of Saint Mary’s, she has won seven regional and international communications awards from CASE, the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, and a best newsletter award from the Carolinas Association of Business Communicators.

Ms. Swain earned an A.A. from Saint Mary’s College, a B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and is a graduate of the New York University Publishing Institute. She worked previously as a journalist for newspapers and magazines, including SUCCESS Magazine in New York City; Encore Magazine in Wilmington, North Carolina. and the Eastern Wake News in North Carolina. She is a photographer who has had photographs published in The News & Observer, The Wilmington Star News, The Eastern Wake News, Walter Magazine, Raleigh Magazine, Saint Mary’s publications and social media, and in newspapers statewide by the Associated Press.

At Saint Mary's, she has been the recipient of the Richard G. Stone Distinguished Service Award, the Faculty-Staff Service Award, and the Dean Jones Award for contributions to student life. Ms. Swain also lives on campus and serves as a residential faculty member.

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SUPPORTING SAINT MARY'S

Auction co-chairs, left to right: Kelly Seymour P’22 ‘25, Shayla Kirchin Bradshaw ‘92C P’23, Catherine Rideout P’22, ‘24, and Rebekah Chiavetta P’23

2023 Auction a rousing success Saint Mary’s School welcomed alumnae, current and former families, faculty, staff, and friends to its 2023 Auction Gala at the Angus Barn Pavilion, Friday, March 17. This important fundraising and community building event received record sponsorship and donations, making it the highest grossing auction to date. This year’s auction gala raised more than $300,000. The school is truly thankful for the collective generosity of our community.

The benefit of these gifts will soon come to fruition for our girls. Some of the facility projects auction proceeds will help make possible for our Saints a new paved walking/running path around campus, new bleachers and shade for Nimocks Field, and upgrades to the student bathroom in Binder Health Center.

Saint Mary’s expresses sincere gratitude to our auction chairs and to everyone who participated in making the evening such a tremendous success.

The 2023 auction chairs were Kelly Seymour P’22, ’25, Shayla Kirchin Bradshaw ‘92C P’23, Catherine Rideout P’22, ’24, and Rebekah Chiavetta P’23.

Thank you for your wonderful support of the 2023 Auction Gala!

2023 Auction Glala Program

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Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

Auction attendees gather and mingle before dinner from the Angus Barn

Katie Guess '22, Diane Stockard Wade '66HS, '68C, and Catherine Wade '93HS

From Gap to Growth

by Eileen Nedoma, Director of Major Gifts In May 2022, classmates of Katie Guess ’22 were readying themselves for their first semester at college. Katie, however, was preparing for a gap year and the adventure of a lifetime. Two years of careful planning, financial savings, and academic achievement enabled Katie to embark on an eightmonth expedition to 40 countries, including New Zealand, Japan, Thailand, and Kenya. She spent four months in Europe visiting 31 countries, one month in Africa visiting four countries, seven weeks in Asia visiting three countries, and six weeks in Australia and New Zealand.

The decision to forge a different path than her peers was made with careful consideration. Katie knew that this experience would require a strong sense of independence, self-assuredness, and confidence. With support and encouragement from her mother, Catherine Wade ’93HS; aunt Geni Wade Slaughter ’89HS ’91C; and grandmother Diane Stockard Wade ’66HS ’68C, Katie harnessed the determination to launch into a journey of rewarding and groundbreaking experiences.

Katie also leaned on her international classmates and Saint Mary’s teachers in preparation for her trip. “Having an international community laid a foundation for where I wanted to go.” Katie’s conversations were frequent and varied. These insights into various cultures, languages, and unique experiences helped Katie prepare for the months ahead.

Madrid, Spain

At the Torii Gate, Japan

Katie stayed connected with her Saint Mary’s community throughout her journey via her Instagram account, @KatieRoundTheWorld. While she shared amazing photos and had incredible experiences, Katie cautions that travel is not as glamorous as it may seem. “Travel is difficult, especially on your own. I’ve done laundry in a bathtub, slept on the floor, and had to navigate being sick away from home and unable to read medicine bottles. That’s why independence and self-confidence are crucial.”

At Saint Mary’s, Katie bolstered her academic credentials and matriculated to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She took enough AP classes at Saint Mary's to allow her to enter college as a sophomore.

In recognition of the school's contributions to her and in honor of the Class of 2022, Katie has pledged to give back to Saint Mary's for the next five years as a member of the Collegiate Club. When asked about what Katie hopes to see in Saint Mary's future, she shared, "I hope Saint Mary's continues to help girls grow. The encouragement from friends, teachers, and staff gave me the confidence to take a gap year, and I want other girls to feel that same support.”

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Saint Mary's earns GuideStar's Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid Saint Mary's School is proud to announce that it has earned GuideStar’s 2023 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, the highest honor given. GuideStar profiles give donors detailed information about an organization, aiding them in their search for trusted organizations.

A Platinum Seal on a profile denotes a higher level of transparency, including comprehensive details about finances, board of directors, staff, strategic planning, and overall demographics. A Platinum Seal status is the leading symbol of non-profit transparency and accountability. Saint Mary’s previously earned the Gold Seal in 2021 and 2022. Thank you, to our generous donors and supporters who put your trust in our school, as we remain committed to being good stewards of Saint Mary's School!

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Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

ALUMNAE EVENTS BLANCHE CENTER GROUNDBREAKING | OCTOBER 2, 2022 | SAINT MARY'S SCHOOL

Left to right: Pell Williamson ’19, Julian Williamson, Elizabeth Williamson ’23, Blanche Williamson ’76HS, Adam Holden, and Liza Roberts break ground on the Blanche Robertson Bacon Center for the Performing Arts.

Blanche Williamson ’76HS, Pell Williamson ’18, Julian Williamson, Beth Williamson, and Elizabeth Williamson ’23

Saint Mary’s Chorale sings for the Chapel service for the Blanche Center groundbreaking.

Pell Williamson ’18, Blanche Williamson ’76HS, Elizabeth Williamson ’23

FOREVER CAMPAIGN LUNCHEON | WILMINGTON, NC

Dabney Johnston Mann ’60HS ’62C, Angela Sutton Furniss ’89HS, Julie Ricciardi

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ALUMNAE EVENTS HOME OF BLAINE AND MARTHA ANNE DUBOSE '87C | OCTOBER 11, 2022 | GREENSBORO, NC

Left to right: Blaine Dubose, Martha Anne Allen DuBose ’87C

Left to right: Gray Watkins Lineweaver ’60C, Aurelia Fulton Stafford ’48HS ’50C, GP '07, '15,, Jessie Allen Ogburn ’56HS ’58C, Ann Patterson Scott ’50HS ’52C

Left to right: Emily Smith ’01, Maria Slater Cienfuegos ’07

Left to right: Elizabeth Rankin P'25, Emily Smith ’01

HOME OF CAREN THRESHIE CAMP '71HS | NOVEMBER 3, 2022 | ALEXANDRIA, VA

Left to right: Laura Raynor Martinez ’96HS, Adrianne Stone Wegner ’96HS, Sarah DeLuca ’06, Lee Broadfoot Hathaway ’76C, Ann Pelletier Lane ’75HS ’77C, Caren Threshie Camp '71HS, Becky Timberlake Myhre ’63C

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Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

QUAIL HOLLOW CLUB | NOVEMBER 15, 2022 | CHARLOTTE, NC

Left to right: Elise McKinney ’13, Catherine Blair Polak ’13, Helen Williamson ’13

Left to right: Julia Coleman ’06, Katie Matthews Darling ’08, Betsy Bryan Pitts Mandl ’09

Left to right: Ashley Richardson Allen ’81C P’07, Lou Polites Plyler ’75C

Left to right: Liza Wilcox ’79C, Dede Gant Thompson ’44HS, Molly Burton Tull ’79C

Left to right: Robert Ford, Jennifer Boleman Ford ’93HS P’22, Julie Ricciardi

Left to right: Julie Ricciardi, Emily Smith ’01, Barbara Smith P'26, Prince Dixon Witt ’78HS, Jane Pettit Higgins ’83C

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ALUMNAE EVENTS NEW YORK CITY EVENT | NOVEMBER 21, 2022 | NEW YORK CITY

Left to right: Julie Ricciardi, TiShawn Wellington ’21

Front Left to right: TiShawn Wellington ’21, Kelly Stocks Milam ’01, Annalise Franchina ’14 Back Left to right: Claire Barbour ’09, Eileen Nedoma, Les Wright

PIEDMONT DRIVING CLUB | JANUARY 25, 2023 | ATLANTA

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Left to right: Mary Donovan ’72C, Berry Williamson Battey ’12, Angela Patrick ’80HS ’82C, Julie Oakman Barringer ’81, Pamala Seda P’16, Susanne Owens Logan ’73HS ’75C, Annette Kerlin McBrayer ’75HS, Janet Smalley Todd ’75HS

Left to right: Cathy Swain Crossett ’68C, Susan Davis Irvine ’66HS ’68C, Rebecca Robinson Smith ’68C, Carol Malcom Phillips ’68C, Jo Crawford Phelps ’68C

Left to right: Susie Soper ’66C, Melanie Hardy Hardin ’80HS ’82C, Julie Ricciardi, Berry Williamson Battey ’12, Julia Walker Barge ’82HS ’84C

Left to right: Annette Kerlin McBrayer ’75HS, Christine Hurst Copley ’67C

Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

THE LANDING MARINA CLUBHOUSE | JUNE 15, 2023 | WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC

Left to right: Mandy Johnson Spears ’84HS ’86C, P'18, '20, Leigh Wilson Venters ’86C, Susan Avent Irvine ’84HS ’86C, Robin Ballard Earp ’84HS ’86C, Trish Ballard Fleishman ’87HS

Left to right: Hope Saunders Hackler ’78HS ’80C, Lainie Cox Johnston ’80C, Anne Jennette Grainger ’79C

Left to right: David Sprunt P’25, Wesie Sprunt P’25, Margaret Ellington Baggett ’85C, Susan Wilson Snider ’77HS ’79C

Left to right: Mandy Johnson Spears ’84HS ’86C, P'18, '20, Angela Sutton Furniss ’89HS, Emily Smith ’01

Left to right: Mary Virginia Swain ’77C, Jane Fleury ’99

Left to right: Susan Avent Irvine ’84HS ’86C, Chrisie Currence Pierce ’84HS ’86C, Alice Hemingway Baker ’84HS ’86C

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ALUMNAE EVENTS CORAL BAY CLUB | JULY 15, 2023 | ATLANTIC BEACH, NC

Coles Hines Jones ’79HS, Karen Apostolou Gliarmis ’79HS ’81C, Paige Brown DuBose ’79HS ’81C, Margaret McGlohon ’81C, Mary Hollinshed Smitherman ’81C, Alison Gilbert Holmes ’81C, Leslye Fountain Plummer '81C

Left to right: Louise Johnson Clement ’81HS ’83C P’11, Adam Holden, Jane Darden Brown ’71C

Left to right: Margaret Cheatham Williams ’50HS ’52C P’78HS ’80C GP’04 ’06 ’07 ’11 ’20, Margaret Cheatham Williams ’07, Margaret Williams Williams ’78HS ’80C P’07 ’20

Mary McGranahan Moss ’74HS, left, former Head of School Theo Coonrod, right

Emily Smith '01 and host committee members, pictured left to right: Jennifer Locke McCann ’97C, Betsy Morrison P’25, Charlotte Versfeld P’23, Kelly Seymour P’22 ’25, Joan Comer Johnston ’87C P’20, Margaret Cheatham Williams ’50HS ’52C P’78HS ’80C GP’04 ’06 ’07 ’11 ’20, Paula Johnson Stewart ’68C, Bess Knotts Walker ’76C P’05, Ila Walker Bittner ’05, Merritt Atkins ’99, Tiffany Miller Clark ’82HS; Not pictured: Ann Beland Brooks ’73C, Gloria Taft Becker ’92HS

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Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

HOME OF CAROL BIGGERS DABBS '55HS '57C | AUGUST 3, 2023 | BLOWING ROCK, NC

Left to right: Jessica Holden, Kaye Lasater Culp ’68C, Marshall Culp, Adam Holden

Left to right: Jessica Holden, Carol Biggers Dabbs ’55HS ’57C, GP'09, Adam Holden

Left to right: Carol Biggers Dabbs ’55HS ’57C, GP'09, Terry Dabbs Lewis ’80C, P'09

Left to right: Lynn Purdie-Brennan ‘62C GP’17, Shawn Purdie P’17, Emily Smith ’01

Left to right: Amanda Brantley Anders ’73C, Bob Anders, Carol Biggers Dabbs ‘55HS ‘57C, GP'09

Left to right: Barbara Hauser Bryan ’58C, Carol Biggers Dabbs ’55HS ’57C, GP'09

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ALUMNAE EVENTS ALUMNAE WEEKEND - REUNION | APRIL 28-29, 2023 | SAINT MARY'S SCHOOL

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FOREVER CAMPAIGN | NOVEMBER 2, 2023 | SAINT MARY'S SCHOOL

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ALUMNAE CANDIDS

Katherine Carlton ’05 was married in Saint Mary’s Chapel in May 2023. Pictured at the reception held on campus are Taylor Rice Robbins ’06, Caroline McClintic Flannery ’05, Ila Walker Bitner ’05, Katherine Carlton Dorsey ’05, Hattie Walter Steffens ’05, Caroline Calder ’05, Caroline Estill Ramsey ’05, Alexandra Carlson ’05.

Cameron Moss Daniel ’04, husband Stephen Daniel, and son Dutton Daniel live in Elm City, North Carolina.

1987 College classmates Katie Sullivan Landi ’87, Susan Stephenson ’87C, and Marty Hattaway Lewis ’87C on a recent road trip.

Catherine Early ’08 married Drew Harper, May 20, 2023.

Jacqueline Collie ’15 married Joseph Baggett (son of Margaret Ellington Baggett ’85C, grandson of Ann Morton Ellington Robinson ’56C, and great-grandson of Hannah Huske Baggett ’37C) in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, April 15, 2023. Saint Mary’s bridesmaids included Liddy Blincow ’15, Anna Carson Buckthal ’15, Anna Clark ’15, Maddy Sullivan ’15, Caroline Utt ’15, and matron of honor, Caroline Collie Fricke ’11, the bride’s sister.

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Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

Saint Mary’s friends celebrating the marriage of Florrie McCard ’14 and Kate McHale at the reception in the dining hall following the wedding in the Chapel. Pictured, front row left to right, Lindsay Nevitt ’14, Emily Smith ’01, Mary Stuart Fountain ’14, Emily Evans ’14, Cynthia Coleman ’14; second row, Margaret Fountain ’18, Annie T Ham ’21, Clementine McCard ’17, Matilda McCard ’21, Augusta Moran ’15, Isabel Moran ’21; back row, Annalise Franchina ’14, Florrie McCard ’14, Savannah Reynolds ’13.

Katie Whitmore Allred ’04, husband Ryan, and sons Bobby and Henry, are on the move again from Pinehurst to Landstuhl, Germany, where Ryan will serve as a U.S. Army dentist.

Allison Schoen Hepfner ’04 and daughter Emmy (pictured) recently visited Saint Mary’s.

The family of Ila Walker Bitner ’05 celebrated May 4, 2023, the end of daughter Brinn Louise’s months of treatments at UNC Hospital for acute myeloid leukemia. The family includes Ila’s husband, Robbie, and their son, Bear; Ila’s mother, Bess Knotts Walker ’76C, and her husband, Win; and Ila’s brothers and their significant others.

Dhwani Shah ’05 married Bobby Aspell, Sept. 10, 2022

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Granddaughters Club 2022-2023 The Granddaughters Club consists of students whose mothers and grandmothers attended Saint Mary’s. Founded in 1909 by Kate McKimmon, Class of 1867, the Granddaughters Club is the oldest existing club on campus.

Marian Anderson Adams ’25, daughter of Marian Morris Godwin ’98HS Raine Holt Atkins ’24, grandchild of Evanthia Aretakis Atkins ’67C Anna Parham Barber ’24, granddaughter of Ruth Watkins Barber ’54HS ’56C and great-granddaughter of Margaret Brown Barber ’32C Marion Porter Barber ’24, granddaughter of Ruth Watkins Barber ’54HS ’56C and great-granddaughter of Margaret Brown Barber ’32C

Sophia Maroun Ishak ’26, daughter of Meghan Costello Ishak ’97HS

Sarah Anderson Smith ’24, daughter of Ashley Langley Smith ’90HS

Olivia Stanfield Jones ’26, granddaughter of Olivia Grimes Roberson ’70C and great-great-great-granddaughter of Charlotte Bryan Grimes 1848HS

Sally Pierce Spruill ’26, granddaughter of Nancy Brimage Gillam Spruill ’66HS ’68C and great-granddaughter of Lucy Rascoe Outlaw Gillam ‘42C and Nancy Scull Taylor Spruill ‘36HS ‘38C

Grace Hubbard Kerr ’26, daughter of Laura-Burke Davis Kerr ’96HS ’98C and great-granddaughter of Elizabeth Hubbard Kerr ’34HS

Sarah Hunter Spruill ’26, granddaughter of Nancy Brimage Gillam Spruill ’66HS ’68C and great-granddaughter of Lucy Rascoe Outlaw Gillam ‘42C and Nancy Scull Taylor Spruill ‘36HS ‘38C

Eugenia Louise Waters Larson ’25, daughter of Allison Poe Larson ’90HS Lillian Aycock Larson ’23, daughter of Allison Poe Larson ’90HS

Virginia Elizabeth Sprunt ’25, granddaughter of Elizabeth Harriss Sprunt ’50C and great-granddaughter of Frances Hoggard Harriss ‘28C and Annie Gray Nash Ruffin Sprunt 1904HS

Brooke Elizabeth Barger ’24, daughter of Amy Preiss Barger ’96HS Chesson Louise Becker ’24, daughter of Gloria Taft Becker ’92HS and granddaughter of Cheryl Lee Taft ’68 Mahala Kathleen Bell ’25, granddaughter of Sara Frances Walters Borden ’70C and the Rev. Frank Pisani, former president of Saint Mary’s from 1969-1976

Marion (Suzie) Allen Suiter Stowe ’24, great-granddaughter of Virginia Clark Jenkins ’34C and great-great-granddaughter of Martha Louise Wilson Clark 1917HS Emma Maria Teague ’25, daughter of Cindy Ross Teague ’89HS

Katherine Woodall Maddison ’26, granddaughter of Martha Weeks Daniel ’64C and Clare Garden Maddison ’64C and greatgranddaughter of Jane Purrington Maddison ’31C

Catherine Wallace Thomas ’26, daughter of Wallace Batten Thomas ’95C

Sara Elizabeth Bell ’23, granddaughter of Sara Frances Walters Borden ’70C and the Rev. Frank Pisani, former president of Saint Mary’s from 1969-1976

Laura Grace McSwain ’23, daughter of Sarah Montgomery McSwain ’93HS

May Edmonds Thompson ’23, daughter of Heather Moore Thompson ’88HS ’90C and granddaughter of Sue Battle Moore ’63C

Caroline Davis Bradshaw ’23, daughter of Shayla Kirchin Bradshaw ’92C

Bryn Claire Montgomery ’24, daughter of Ann Jones Montgomery ’92C

Elizabeth Dunn Tillman ’23, daughter of Melissa Morrisette Tillman ’88HS and granddaughter of Kathryn Symons Patterson ’65C and Mary Windley Dunn Tillman ’54C

Elizabeth Blair Bycura ’26, daughter of Gina Keller Bycura ’88HS

Carter McKinnon Morrison ’25, great-granddaughter of Helen Holt Morrison ’39C

Camilla Kemp Carrington ’26, daughter of Caroline Cloninger Carrington '90C Millage Julia Edwards ’26, great-granddaughter of Julia Drake Chatneuff ‘34C and great-great-granddaughter of Sophie Elva Drake 1911HS Margaret Cameron Ellerbe ’26, granddaughter of Martha Goode Ellerbe ’56HS Abigail Adams Fritter ’23, daughter of Katherine Gregory Fritter ’91HS ’93C and great-granddaughter of Katherine Jamieson Gregory ’32C Virginia Elizabeth Griffin ’23, daughter of Kim Goines ’89HS ’91C Alice Adeline Harris ’23, great-granddaughter of Alice Cason Lineberger 1927C and great-great-granddaughter of Alice Makely Cason 1896-1898 Isabella Dunstan Howard ’23, daughter of Virginia Dunstan Howard ’91C and great-granddaughter of Madeline Jenkins Howard ’29C

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Julia Borden Long ’25, granddaughter of Georgia Cobb Joyner ’59C, great-granddaughter of Sara Elizabeth Borden Cobb 1918C, greatgreat-granddaughter of Sallie Smith Jones Borden and great-greatgreat-granddaughter of Georgia Whitfield Borden

Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

Lucy Scott Nogas ’25, granddaughter of Cece May Scott ’68C and great-granddaughter of Betty Barnes Scott ’44C

Margaret Borden Vermillion ’24, great-granddaughter of Margaret Banes Gold Borden 1918C, great-great-granddaughter of Sallie Smith Jones Borden, and great-great-great-granddaughter of Georgia Whitfield Borden 1848

Martha Reeves Parrott ’24, granddaughter of Martha Hall Michaels ’67HS

Helen Dana Wein ’25, great-granddaughter of Mary Augusta Taylor Long ’41C

Bryson Mills Perry ’23, granddaughter of Ann Harrell Perry ’69C

Lucy Moye Whitford ’24, granddaughter of Jeanne Moye Whitford ’59C

Lillian Randolph Platto ’24, great-granddaughter of Nancy Crow Stovall ’35C Elizabeth Perry Powell ’23, granddaughter of Betsy Johnston Price ’64HS Katherine (Kate) Hanna Pulsifer ’24, granddaughter of Susan Russell Denniston ’62HS Olivia Caroline Smith ’23, granddaughter of Louise Landauer Allred ’58HS ’60C

Elizabeth Redfern Williamson ’23, granddaughter of Blanche Robertson Bacon ’53HS ’55C

IN MEMORIAM Deaths Sassy Warren Fuchs ’39C April 2, 2023

Joanne Liles Beal ’50C November 4, 2022

Boo Baker Love ’58C April 12, 2023

Betty Davidson Frierson ’43HS October 8, 2022

Jean Newcombe Carrington ’50C February 16, 2023

Brooks Newton Preik ’58C May 1, 2023

Martha Stoney Anderson ’43HS ’45C January 13, 2023

Toot Combs Elkins ’50C April 30, 2023

Phiney Huntt Rhinehart ’58HS ’60C December 2, 2022

Anne Dysart Varley ’44C April 24, 2023

Betty Ray McCain ’50C November 23, 2022

Ann Campbell Fulton ’59C May 13, 2023

Barbara Smith Cooley ’45HS April 26, 2023

Barbara Daniel Smiley ’50C October 12, 2022

Judy Hankin ’61C May 16, 2023

Ginger Young Detoy ’46C September 13, 2022

Ann Fitzgerald Potts ’50HS ’52C April 15, 2023

Martha Fowler ’61HS ’63C January 29, 2023

Margaret Allred McCauley ’46C May 1, 2023

Jackie Clarkson Williams ’50HS April 3, 2023

Susan Becton ’62HS ’64C January 25, 2023

Harriet Gurley Smith ’46C March 12, 2023

Ann Greene Caudle ’51C January 18, 2023

Libby Beury ’63C January 12, 2023

Nancy Mercer Smith ’46C February 5, 2023

Jean Graham Massengill ’51C March 1, 2023

Belle Williams Smith ’63C August 7, 2023

Lethia Nichols Quarles ’46C March 28, 2023

Faith Robinson Morrison ’51HS May 29, 2023

Nancy Griffin Warren ’64C September 30, 2022

Joyce Tomlin Griffith ’46HS November 24, 2022

Barbara Taylor Clower ’52C September 12, 2022

Dixie Thomas Brantley ’65C October 5, 2022

Virginia Mathews Mitchell ’46HS May 29, 2023

Trudy Chappell Conrad ’52C October 9, 2022

Susan Osborne ’65C April 1, 2023

Marty Hinkle Butner-Covington ’47C October 24, 2022

Anne Benton Powley ’52C November 25, 2022

Sara Jones Rodriguez ’66C June 16, 2023

Sis Silver Cheshire ’47C April 14, 2023

Kay Baker Floyd ’52HS ’54C July 16, 2023

Page Holbrook ’66HS ’68C July 24, 2023

Sara Mell Smith Edwards 47C December 30, 2022

Frances Satterlee Alexander ’53C January 26, 2023

Amy Carr Thullen ’69HS February 1, 2023

Betty Peirson Freese ’47C April 14, 2023

Emily Urquhart Ayscue ’53C November 1, 2022

Marsh Pully Mebane ’70C November 2, 2022

Lona Jones Myrick ’47C March 15, 2023

Joyce Beverly Bunting ’53C August 12, 2023

Frances Moore ’72HS September 4, 2022

Ann Wicker Harrison ’47HS October 3, 2022

Jane Westbrook Thomason ’54HS ’56C September 7, 2022

Florence Jeffress Dunn ’73C February 8, 2023

Clara Justice MacMillan ’47HS January 9, 2023

Ann Nimocks Pleasants ’55C January 16, 2023

Barbara Fleming Gillette ’74HS November 13, 2022

Betty Bowles Haywood ’48HS ’50C March 28, 2023

Geri Dixon Pollander ’55C April 30, 2023

Bonnie Bell McGowan ’75C January 12, 2023

Shirley Fox Phillips ’48HS ’50C February 7, 2023

Anne Norman Tayloe ’55C November 30, 2022

Ruth Carter Pritchard ’76C May 7, 2023

Mary Whisenant Dowda ’48HS December 28, 2022

Lou Lesley Donnelly ’56C February 13, 2023

Betty Johnston Miller ’77C June 11, 2023

Jo Cooper Lombard ’48HS June 13, 2023

Sally Underhill Viault ’56HS December 31, 2022

Lee Trotter Dixon ’81C May 29, 2023

Virginia Cobb Coupland ’49C December 25, 2022 Susan Davis Lane ’49C October 9, 2022 Mary-Bryan Cummings Rasberry ’49C September 23, 2022 Joyce Richert Sper ’49C December 18, 2022

Phyllis Wall Purdy ’57C September 19, 2022 Bettie Denison Dixon ’57HS June 12, 2023 Nancy Rodwell Baker ’58C April 10, 2023 Sue Minich Hughes ’58C May 14, 2023

Jill Gadsden ’84HS June 6, 2023 Helen Nobles ’93HS ’95C May 1, 2023 Anne Gibson Connell Albright ’94HS ’97C July 1, 2023 Laura Knox Yarbrough ’96HS ’98C January 15, 2023 Hannah Larsen ’19 January 29, 2023

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MILESTONES Marriages Millie Fulk ’11 married Grant Cleavenger, November 19, 2022

Claudia Wooten Outlaw ’79HS ’81C married Michael Harper, September 30, 2022

Becca Humphrey ’11 married Ruffin Blackwell, June 27, 2022

Katherine Respess ’87C married Vance Moore, May 6, 2023

Hayden Rizer ’11 married Taylor Stricklin, November 19, 2022

Charlotte Smith ’04 married Joseph Jeffers, October 22, 2022

Anna Louise Vitek ’11 married Ian Davis, September 3, 2023

*Katherine Carlton ’05 married Hayes Dorsey, May 13, 2023

Kelly Rusher ’12 married Ryan Sanderford, April 15, 2023

Dhwani Shah '05 married Bobby Aspell, September 10, 2022

Jean Turlington ’12 married John Martin, February 10, 2023

Anna-Gray Stallings ’15 married Carson Lee, June 17, 2023

Cally Eberle ’07 married Brian Ciencin, April 29, 2023

Julia Burton ’13 married Matt Doyle, November 19, 2022

Alex Nolley ’16 married Grayson Gruninger, April 1, 2023

Katherine Darden ’08 married Tolson Kenney, October 22, 2022

Mary Haley ’14 married Bill Brewer, April 15, 2023

Catherine Early '08 married Drew Harper, May 20, 2023

Cameron Little ’14 married Daniel DiVincenzo, April 2, 2022

Mady McLeod ’08 married Matt Turner, November 5, 2022

Anna Lane Mayo ’14 married Tyler Patterson, May 6, 2023

Cynthia Partrick ’08 married Kyle Trebour, July 15, 2023

*Florrie McCard ’14 married Kate McHale, December 31, 2022

Diane Tyndall ’08 married Evan Nelson, May 7, 2023

Katie Nash ’14 married Chandler Creech, November 12, 2022

Rivers Duggan ’09 married Elijah Guo, October 8, 2022

Maddie Plumlee ’14 married Dean Lowry, June 16, 2023

Whitney Currin ’10 married Buck Rogers, October 29, 2022

Sarah Boyce ’15 married Andrew Young, November 19, 2022

Anna-Gray Stallings ’15 married Carson Lee, June 17, 2023

Anna-Carson Buckthal ’15 married Peter Bristow, May 20, 2023

Alex Nolley ’16 married Grayson Gruninger, April 1, 2023

Cat Reynolds ’10, married Chase Dearman, November 19, 2022 Joi Marlowe ’10 married Je’mere Mooney, August 6, 2022

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Jacqueline Collie ’15 married Joseph Baggett, April 15, 2023

Jane Hight ’73C married Richard Morgan, January 22, 2022

Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

Alexandra Eubanks ’15 married Robb Saleeby, May 29, 2023 Grace Replogle ’15 married Matt Greer, August 5, 2023 Tara Elise Richard ’15 married Kyle Webster, September 23, 2022

Sarah Boyce ’15 married Andrew Young, November 19, 2022 Anna-Carson Buckthal ’15 married Peter Bristow, May 20, 2023 Jacqueline Collie ’15 married Joseph Baggett, April 15, 2023 Alexandra Eubanks ’15 married Robb Saleeby, May 29, 2023 Grace Replogle ’15 married Matt Greer, August 5, 2023 Tara Elise Richard ’15 married Kyle Webster, September 23, 2022

* Married in Saint Mary's Chapel

New Babies Clara Wortham Robinson ’01, a son March 14, 2023

Beth Walters Nash ’08, a son March 4, 2023

Gini Todd Brink ’13, a son January 31, 2023

Sarah Frackelton Spotswood ’01, a son October 28, 2022

Macky Trotter Wingo ’08, a daughter April 10, 2023

Wesley Neal Stallings Jenkins ’13, a son March 8, 2023

Courtney Haughey Thompson ’01, a daughter December 8, 2022

Charlotte Horney Dawkins ’09, a daughter February 6, 2023

Makenzie Fletcher Caycedo ’15, a daughter August 17, 2022

Brandi Harton ’03, a son August 7, 2022

Adams Paschal Lent ’09, a daughter April 11, 2023

Hannah Moore Harris ‘11, a daughter March 21, 2022

Brittany Branch Roche ’03, a son October 26, 2022

Emma Carol Lewis Moore ’09, a son July 15, 2023

Sylvia Weir Lee ’13, a daughter January 22, 2022

Cameron Moss Daniel ’04, a son October 10, 2022

Macon Cornick Guidry ’10, a daughter December 20, 2022

Stephanie Hamilton Passmore ‘15, a daughter March 29, 2022

Ryan Anthony Marston ’04, a son April 9, 2023

Laura Gulledge Rust ’10, a son May 1, 2023

Colton Tyler Brink, son of Gini Todd Brink ’13 and Trevor Brink

Caroline Ward Manning ’05, a son May 16, 2023

Cassie Helda Sagehorn ’10, a daughter July 21, 2023

Lauren Robbins Dickson ’06, a daughter April 24, 2023

Gates Killian Spilman ’10, a son November 7, 2022

Virginia Claire Tharrington Nist ’06, a son June 1, 2023

Sophie Trotter Stanwick ’10, a daughter July 20, 2023

Alexandra Bielec Pagel ’06, a son May 7, 2023

Louise Mann Clement Dull ’11, a daughter June 2, 2023

Taylor Rice Robbins ’06, a daughter October 1, 2022

Rebecca Behar Gronroos ’11, a daughter February

Blair Mikels Baker ’07, a son October 16, 2022

Sallie Bailey Plumley ’11, a daughter October 1, 2022

Cat Parker Browne ’07, a daughter November 7, 2022

Elizabeth Kerns Roberts ’11, a daughter May 24, 2023

Annie Sellers Greene ’07, a daughter October 5, 2022

Darby Fallon Clark ’12, a son November 9, 2022

Nancy Stewart McLendon Dickson ’08, a son October 5, 2022

Corinne Rixey Coleman ’12, a son June 20, 2023

Martha Cloud Josey Erwin ’08, a daughter September 24, 2022

Carrie Coleman Paxton ’12, a daughter April 6, 2023

Loftin Johnson Farrar ’08, a son June 8, 2023

Duncan Weaver Flynn ’12, a son February 23, 2023

Julie Bynum Fraser ’08, a daughter June 1, 2023

Ellee Craig Stewart ’12, a son June , 2023

These milestones were compiled based on information received by September 30, 2022. Every effort is made to include everyone for whom we have an official confirmation by press time. If we missed you or your loved one, please send an official announcement to ersmith@sms.edu or mail to Emily Smith ’01, Director of Alumnae Engagement, Saint Mary’s School, 900 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27603, for inclusion in the summer 2024 magazine.

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CLASSNEWS NEWS CLASS CLASS NEWS It’s all here – the latest and greatest alumnae news. Saint Mary’s extends a special thanks to the dedicated class secretaries who compiled and crafted these class newsletters, many who have served for decades.

Odd-year classes will be published in the summer 2024 magazine. Alumnae in these classes will receive information to facilitate the reporting of news to class secretaries or directly to the school.

CLASS NEWS POLICIES Due to the uncertain nature of certain types of news, Saint Mary’s does not publish news of wedding engagements or pregnancies. We publish news of marriages, births, adoptions or deaths, based on published news reports or direct phone or e-mail contact with the Alumnae Office from the parties or immediate families. Please remember to include Saint Mary’s in your wedding announcement in the newspaper and please send birth announcements to the Alumnae Office for inclusion in the milestones section.

Saint Mary’s Class Notes are published for each class once each year. Due to the extended nature of the production schedule for the magazine, class news is meant to be a once-a-year general update of your news for the previous year. We cannot guarantee the exact timeliness of your news, so please keep our advance deadlines in mind when submitting news.

Saint Mary’s School reserves the right to edit class news for content, length and timeliness.

Photographs may be submitted for consideration for the class news to mvswain@sms.edu or Mary Virginia Swain, 900 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27603. Photos must be high-quality prints or digital .jpeg photo files of at least 300 dpi. Group shots should include Saint Mary’s alumnae (and spouses and children) only and must include a detailed listing of everyone pictured, including full names and class years.

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HIGH SCHOOL Catherine Gant Powell writes, “I’m living in a retirement community in Greenville, North Carolina, playing bridge, walking, and knitting lap robes for skilled-care friends. When your children are in their mid-70s, you wonder where the years went!”

1944

HIGH SCHOOL Dede Gant Thompson writes from Charlotte, “I think I’ll make it to 97 years! I am beginning to outlive everybody. I am finally a great-grandmother. Would love to hear from anyone who beats my age!”

1944

COLLEGE Mary Lynn Lewis DeLany ’44C Carol Talbot of Williamsburg, Virginia, writes that her family is planning their firstever family reunion in October. Loved ones are coming from Hawaii, Arizona, California, Maryland, and Florida. She notes that there are eight grandchildren.

“We are a diverse bunch: doctors, two lawyers, a P.A., a businessman, an author, a newspaper writer – we are quite scattered! This is the first year in many that I haven’t tutored in our public schools. A big group of us do this, and we give a party at the end of the year for our tutees – a bunch of happy children. I plan to do it again next term. I feel fortunate to live in a fine retirement home with grand people, good food, and lots to do.” Carol enjoys taking courses at her other alma mater, William & Mary, and has served on the board there.

1946

HIGH SCHOOL Joyce Tomlin Griffith died Nov. 24, 2022, in Cockeysville, Maryland, at the age of 94. She was originally from Statesville, North Carolina, and attended Hollins University after graduating from Saint Mary’s. She enjoyed a long and successful career as an artist and professional interior designer. She is survived by two sons, two daughters, 12 grandchildren, and a great-grandson.

1946

COLLEGE Saint Mary’s has received news that Lethia Nichols Quarles died March 28, 2023.

1947

HIGH SCHOOL Ann Nowel Evans writes from Atlanta with news that her husband, John Steed Evans, passed away on Jan. 5, 2023. Her great-grandson, Noah Gabriel Steed Buchanan was born on Ann’s birthday, Jan. 18, 2023.

1948

HIGH SCHOOL Nancy Hamel Clark has lived at Friends Homes in Greensboro since 2004. Her husband, Blake, died in 2015. Daughter Ann Clark lives in Mooresville, and is retired superintendent of Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System, currently consulting and mentoring principals and superintendents nationwide. Son Jim Clark and Mary love living in Nashville, Tennessee. He is a writer and co-founder of The Andy Griffith Show Rerun Watchers Club. “I have completed my bucket list and now enjoy playing hand bells, cardio drumming, and exercise classes. Never have time to play bridge, but now enjoy three other games each week.”

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Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

1949

COLLEGE Sue Joyner Ferraro of Belton, Missouri, was saddened to learn of the October 2022 death of her dear friend, Susan Davis Lane. Sue also lost several family members during the past year, including her brother, Charles Joyner, in June 2022, and a nephew in April 2023. “I have had a rather bad year in regard to my health, but am still doing pretty well. Hello and love to all the Saint Mary’s girls!”

1950

COLLEGE The family of Jean Newcombe Carrington ’50C reports that she died February 16, 2023, at the Southminster retirement community.

1951

HIGH SCHOOL Patsy Daniels-Lindley ’51HS ’53C enjoys spending her winters in Vero Beach, Florida, and summers at the Cardinal retirement community in Raleigh. She has a cruise planned in September from Montreal to New York City.

1951

COLLEGE Louise Milliken Howard ’51C The years are certainly piling up on us. That is why it was so good to hear from those of you who sent news to Saint Mary’s. I would think that by now all of you are experiencing “the glorious nineties!” Stella Cobbs Anderson is still in Talladega, Alabama, still driving, and still exercising at the Y every day. She has 10 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Nancy Woodruff Broadwell celebrated her 90th birthday last February and is still living in her house with two dogs and a cat. She is going to cardiac rehab and still involved in some activities. She is enjoying her greatgranddaughter and her family who live in Southern Pines, my hometown.

I am sad to report that we have lost three more classmates in addition to those already reported in the last three years. Becky Wall Parker died in 2021, and Virginia Hall Wood and Martha “Buttercup” Taylor McGuirk died in 2022. All three classmates were fine contributors to our college days. Grace Gordon Pless writes that life in Asheville is good with husband Cecil, four daughters, and grandchildren. She notes that Asheville is no longer the sleepy mountain burgh but has become a mecca for a happy life at many levels. June Bullard Winston writes that she has welcomed the arrival of her 15th grandchild. Her oldest son recently turned 70. Every year before I write this annual letter, I get out our 1951 yearbook and look at the pictures of all my classmates. It helps me to connect with what I am writing. I think of all of you as you looked at that time – young, attractive, and intelligent. It is a special time for wonderful memories. Please send news next year. With love to all, Louise

resident of Orange, Virginia, recently celebrated her 91st birthday with friends and family. They sang our alma mater, Hail Saint Mary’s – In a Grove of Stately Oak Trees…!”

1953

HIGH SCHOOL and

1955

COLLEGE Carol Jordan Cheatham ’53HS lives in Wrightsville Beach. “I was married in 1956 to James H. Cheatham Jr. Was a secretary and bookkeeper for 27 years for Cheatham & Associates. We had four daughters: Teresa, Fran, Margaret, and Kathryn.” Carol now has six grandchildren: Sarah, Brian, Evan, Rachel, Elizabeth, and Mary Margaret, who graduated summa cum laude from Liberty University and is studying for her master’s. Lee Kohlsaat Hitchcock ’53HS ’55C writes that she decided recently to move to a CCRC, The Fairfax-Belvoir Woods, in Virginia, in order to be closer to daughter Sharon in D.C. “Originally, The Fairfax was built for the retired military but that has changed. I must say we have a few who have such fun together. Everyone is ever so friendly, food is gourmet, lovely apartments and campus. Come scout us out. I keep in touch with Jeanne Ogburn Barbour ’55C in Chapel Hill. Love to all.”

1953

COLLEGE Haffye Sewell Cox ’53C

1950

HIGH SCHOOL and

1952

COLLEGE Maridee Potts Clark ’76C reports that her mother, Ann Fitzgerald Potts, died April 15, 2023.

1952

COLLEGE Mary Jo Paul Browning, former Saint Mary’s alumnae director and a

Left to right: Becky Gordon Hoggard ’51HS ’53C, Haffye Sewell Cox ’53C, Anne Bailey Lewis ’53C

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SAINT MARY’S REMEMBERS

Emily Urquhart Ayscue '53C Former Trustee

Former Saint Mary’s trustee Emily Urquhart Ayscue ’53C died peacefully on November 1, 2022, in Chapel Hill at age 89. Ms. Ayscue was born Emily Mizell Urquhart on October 31, 1933, in Woodville, Bertie County, North Carolina, to the late Burges Urquhart Sr. and Emily Mizell Urquhart.

After graduating from Lewiston-Woodville High School, where she played on the girls' basketball team, Emily attended St. Mary's Junior College, where she was editor of the student newspaper. She was an assistant leader in the 1952 North Carolina Debutante Ball in Raleigh. In 1955 she finished her undergraduate degree in education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. There she met Edwin Osborne Ayscue, Jr., to whom she was married for 65 years before her death.

She taught high school civics in Norfolk, Virginia, and Durham, North Carolina, where her students excelled.

She later returned to UNC for her master's degree in education. Charlotte became Emily and Ozzie's home in 1960, and they devoted themselves to community life. Emily volunteered in the Junior League and served on boards of the Thompson Children's Home and the Community School of the Arts as well as Saint Mary's School in Raleigh.

Emily was active in Christ Episcopal Church, where she served on the vestry, and later became a member of Chapel of the Cross in Chapel Hill, where the Ascue’s lived in later years. As a partner in Glover-Ayscue Properties, Emily invested in and managed residential and commercial real estate properties in the Charlotte area for over 20 years. She also was a member of the Charlotte Assembly and the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America.

Survivors include Emily's husband, Ozzie; her son Edwin Osborne Ayscue, III (Kathleen Mahoney); her daughters Grace Thompson Ayscue (John Taylor), Emily Ayscue Hassel (Bryan) and Margaret Mizell Certain (Andrew), and her grandchildren Benjamin Ayscue Taylor, Joseph Urquhart Taylor, Christian Osborne Ayscue, David Austin Ayscue, Will O'Sullivan Ayscue, Margaret Louise Hassel, Christopher Ayscue Hassel, Osborne Urquhart Hassel, Mizell Hotchkiss Hassel, Graham Thompson Certain and Malcolm Alexander Certain. In addition to her parents, Ms. Ayscue was preceded in death by her two brothers, Burges Urquhart Jr. and Thomas Mizell Urquhart.

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Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu

Nancy McIver Chaffe wrote that she and Black turned 90-years-old over the summer. Sadly, her sister, Flora McIver Kelly ’59C, died in January. Three of the Chaffe’s four children live nearby: Black in Mobile, Alabama; Mary in Gulfport, Mississippi; and Anne in New Orleans. The fourth, William, is in Dallas. “Our nine grandchildren are well, and we just celebrated the birth of our first great-granddaughter. I was so sorry to miss the 70th reunion.

It just got too complicated. We are happy in our home in Pass Christian, Mississippi, cited as one of the best places to live and also known as ‘God’s waiting room.’” Patsy Daniels-Lindley ’51HS ’53C enjoys spending her winters in Vero Beach, Florida, and summers at the Cardinal retirement community in Raleigh. She has a cruise planned in September from Montreal to New York City. Gene Overbeck Britt says she continues to enjoy living in Southport, North Carolina. For many years she has gone to Italy and has been so disappointed to have missed the last few years due to COVID but hopes to go back soon. Anne Bailey Lewis, Becky Gordon Hoggard ’51HS ’53C, and I enjoyed our 70th reunion so very much, especially the kindness and “special treatment” shown to us by everyone. Saint Mary’s campus was perfectly beautiful, with gorgeous flowers blooming everywhere. We were happy to see each other but missed seeing our other classmates.

The three of us really missed Nancy McIver Chaffe, who has always been with us at these reunions. Anne’s news is that she now lives in Richmond, Virginia, at the lovely Westminster Retirement Center. The sad news is that her husband John died January 20. Anne’s daughter, Lynn Lewis Buehler ’79HS, lives in Richmond, Virginia, and is a great source of comfort to her.

Anne has three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She says she has great memories of Saint Mary’s and made great, lifelong friends. Becky Gordon Hoggard and Dickie have moved to The Cedars in Chapel Hill, and they love living there. All three of their children live nearby, Jeffrey and Norfleet in Raleigh and Beth Hoggard ’74HS in Durham. The Hoggards have five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Becky said she enjoyed seeing Emily Urquhart Ayscue at the Cedars prior to her death last year.

My news is that I still live at home in Tarboro. I have children from the mountains to the coast: Robert in Lenoir, Lainie Cox Johnston ’80C in Wilmington, Rose at Wrightsville Beach, and Tom in Tarboro. I have four beautiful, perfect grandchildren: Lindsey, Lena, Thomas, and Jack. I loved my years at Saint Mary’s and I’m sure all of you did too – how could you not? Hope to see you at our next reunion. Haffye

1955

HIGH SCHOOL and

1957

COLLEGE Anne Powell Ward writes from Powhatan, Virginia. She has three children, six grandchildren (three boys and three girls), and six great-grandchildren (three boys and three girls: “and still working on this!”). The Wards live in a house in a retirement community and enjoyed extensive travel until Bernie’s health declined. Mittie Crumpler Landi ’55HS ’57C writes from Burlington, “I am currently recuperating from a fall that resulted in a dislocated shoulder. I have enjoyed seeing seven of my grandchildren graduate from college and enter the working world and am excited to see my eighth and youngest grandchild do the same this year. I wish my Saint Mary’s classmates and friends a great 2023.” Martha-Gay Burns Morton ’55HS left Greenville, North Carolina, to move to Hampstead, North Carolina, which is nearer her daughter-in-law and three grandsons (15, 13, 9). “I missed seeing classmates at the last reunion. Love living close to the coast and close to family.” Coleman Jenkins Dance ’55HS ’57C says two of her grandchildren were married last summer, both children of Russ and Melanie Hardy Hardin ’80HS ’82C. “What a wonderful time for all of us to be together! Love the additions to our family!”

1956

COLLEGE Martha Brooks Bricio ‘54HS ‘56C Once again, thanks to those who checked in, whether by email or snail mail. It’s truly rewarding to hear from those we lived and studied with so long ago. Fairfax Crow Randall sent a gorgeous celebratory photo of Fairfax

and her husband seated with their children and grandchildren standing behind them. Mott Butler Goff also writes about great reunion plans. Her group of 20-plus are going to a waterfront cottage on Holden Beach, where they plan to have a blast! Later, her first grandchild will be married, which, she says, presents the perpetual problem of “what do I wear?” All this activity despite hip surgery with its accompanying rehab. Mott hopes that all is well with those of us still here! And she looks forward to reading not only ’54HS and ’56C news but also both ’94HS and ’96C. Our class author, Helen Walker Webb, writes that she published her second book, From Birdwatcher to Jailbird, in September of 2022. “Who would have thought that I would write two books!” she says. Several of you checked in via email. Susan Patman Day writes that she continues to live in Raleigh for six months of the year and in the mountains for six months. When she’s in the mountains, she really enjoys painting. Ann Morton Robinson still lives in Asheville, as do three of her five children. She has 11 grandchildren.

She writes that “before COVID I was involved in the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Things have changed and slowed down, just as I have, but I enjoy family and spend a lot of time keeping up with them!” From Charlotte, Barbara Doar Cooper always contributes her news. “Haven’t seen anybody except Nancy Adams Wohlbruck, who is here at Sharon Towers and is doing great. Over Easter weekend, my family joined 50 or more family members at Arlington National Cemetery for the interment service for my brother-in-law. It was very memorable with the caisson drawn by eight white horses, lots and lots of soldiers, a band, and even cannons booming! It is good that our country honors our soldiers for their service. In May, both my sons went sailing with their wives on their individual boats on the big waters of our Outer Banks and up through the Dismal Swamp into Virginia. I am well, happy, and creating technical problems for all. They say I can break a computer or a TV or a cell phone just by walking by. None of us were born and reared into this tech-inspired world!” From Atlanta, Joan Culbreth Greer always checks in. “Jep and I are doing very well. I keep up with Louise Howell Vosburgh.” And it’s great to hear from Anne Wilkerson Vaughn, who writes that she had a federal government career in D.C. for 30 years and lived in Virginia. She now lives in Wilmington and says, “I recently attended a luncheon here for Saint Mary’s alumnae and hoped I would meet someone in our class, but it didn’t happen. I think I was probably the oldest alumna there. I felt ancient!” So do we all! When I read stuff on my phone about parents feeling bewildered and old listening to their children, I realize the complaining parents are my children’s age! And we are now almost entries in Ancestry.com! We have lost three classmates since our last newsletter: Laura James Bettes Schoenberg, who died in February of 2021; Ginia Richardson Manchester, who died in January 2022; and Jane Westbrook Thomason in September 2022. Thanks so much to those who took a moment to write. Everybody who wrote sent love and best wishes to our whole class! Love, Martha

retirement community with varying health issues. There are several other Saint Mary’s girls here, which is fun, especially when I started reminiscing after I found Miss R’s obituary in my files. That brought back many fond memories. Our combined ten grandchildren have so far given us six ‘greats.’” Muffy also shared the sad news that Josephine Hunt Rhinehart ’58HS ’60C died before Christmas in 2022.

1958

COLLEGE Barbara Hauser Bryan ’58C What with the class letter change and a friend’s illness, I nearly missed our 65th Reunion. With Kit Tiedeman Mason’s son, Will, as our chauffeur, and thoughtful transport on campus golf carts, we made it. We hoped in vain to see Sue Sandlin-Plaehn appear. Another Raleigh favorite, Margie Reid, was excited I’d learned of her mother’s celebrated Margaret Reid Wildflower Garden, a two-acre lot at 1439 Dixie Trail, once in “the country.”

Enjoy that story at www.raleigh-garden-club.org/footprints/2021/4/16/ margaret-reid. Millie Fary Coleman opted against I-85 driving, and we missed her. Three lovely alums from 1953C outnumbered but inspired us to attend our own 70th. The week following found me in Wilmington and Kit arranging lunch with Susan Hardin Flynn – whose son, Wood, and his son, Charlie, now occupy the family home, allowing Susan to move smoothly to Brightmoor. Also at lunch was Peggy Withers Allen, who has exchanged tennis days for bridge, book club, and gardening.

She visits daughters in New Jersey and Raleigh twice yearly and there’s beach time with the teen grands and her godson in New Jersey. Brooks Newton Preik’s May 1 move to a heavenly choir leaves us missing one of the dearest singers, writers, and most encouraging classmates ever.

Amazing medical care lengthened her life in West Hartford, Connecticut, with daughter Angela. She was surrounded by supportive family who’ll “sprinkle her ashes in Southport waters” this fall. Pat Watson Ambrose

1957

HIGH SCHOOL Susanne Burton Sawyer writes from Charlotte, “I see Meredith Lumpkin Marchant as often as possible. She is in an assisted-living facility here in Charlotte. We were friends all through our four years at Randolph-Macon Women’s College, and she was in our wedding 60 years ago. Our dear friendship began at Saint Mary’s in the fall of 1955 – 68 years ago. How about that?!”

1958

HIGH SCHOOL Helen Jones Kerby writes from Halstenbeck, Germany. “My sister, Frances Jones Giles, recently visited Bill and me. One of the highlights of this visit was when we attended a festival church service in one of the main churches in Hamburg and home of the world-famous Arp Schnitger organ, built circa 1600. For 10 years in the summer, our mother came to Hamburg and took organ lessons from Professor Heintz Wunderlich, the world-famous organist at that church at that time. During this service, the bigger, more romantic Kemper organ was played along with the Arp Schnitger organ! Our mother had lessons on both organs. For all Macular Degeneration sufferers, my new electronic magnifying glass enables me to read again!” Muffy Walke Bowman writes, “Jim and I are living in a

Left to right: Kit Tiedeman Mason ’56HS ’58C, Barbara Hauser Bryan ’58C

39

SAINT MARY’S REMEMBERS

Betty Ray McCain '50C Class secretary, Distinguished Alumna Award recipient, former North Carolina Secretary for Cultural Resources, first female chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, the ‘Fireball of Faison’ Saint Mary’s distinguished alumna Betty Ray McCain ’50C died peacefully in her home surrounded by family on November 23, 2022. Betty, who served as faithful class secretary for the College Class of 1950 and was a threetime commencement speaker at SMS, was the 2005 recipient of Saint Marys’ Distinguished Alumna Award.

Betty Landon Ray was born to H.T. and Mary Howell Perrett Ray on Feb. 23, 1931, in Faison, North Carolina. The daughter of a country lawyer and a dedicated schoolteacher, Betty and her brother, Horace, were imbued with the values of compassion, dedication, service, and humor in the face of the adversity of the Great Depression and World War II. Upon her graduation, a year early as high school valedictorian "of a class 11" as Betty would always add, she matriculated to Saint Mary's College, and went on to receive her undergraduate degree from UNC-Chapel Hill, followed by a master’s degree in music from Columbia University Teachers College.

Betty found joy in seven decades of service to the University of North Carolina system. She was honored to serve as a member of the UNC Board of Visitors, and eventually Chair the UNC General Alumni Association, Center for Public Television, and the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Board of Visitors. Her time and talents were recognized by an honorary degree from UNC, the GAA distinguished service medal, and the William Richardson Davie Award.It was in Chapel Hill that Betty met medical resident and fellow Tar Heel, Dr. John Lewis McCain.

She and John moved to Wilson, North Carolina. The births of their children, Paul and Eloise, soon followed. Betty was inspired by her father's participation in local political affairs. Betty would volunteer in the Democratic gubernatorial campaigns of Terry Sanford and Richardson Preyer, where she met a young attorney, Jim Hunt, whose statewide campaigns she would later lead. Like Gov. Hunt, Betty was inspired by the tangible improvement that politics and representative government could make in people's lives. Betty served as President of North Carolina Democratic Women, Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, and in the leadership of the Democratic National Committee.

Betty's good cheer and tireless motivational energy were widely recognized at the state level and led to her leadership in the North Carolina Medical Alliance, the Tryon Palace Commission, the First Flight Centennial Commission, the First Colony Foundation, and as a regional corporate board member for SPRINT Telecommunications. Betty served on the state Advisory Budget Commission, the Governor's Task Force on Child Advocacy, four terms on the UNC System Board of Governors, and culminated in 1993 with her appointment in the Hunt Administration cabinet to be North Carolina Secretary of Cultural Resources.

In addition to the honorary degree from her own alma mater, similar recognition was received from Wake Forest University, UNCGreensboro, UNC-Wilmington, and Barton College. She was lauded with conferral of the North Carolinian Society Award, the ArtsNC President's Award, the Joseph Caldwell Award from the North Carolina Humanities Council, induction into the North Carolina Women's Hall of Fame and, from the State of North Carolina, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, and the North Carolina Award. She was also a choir member at First Presbyterian Church where she was a deacon and an elder.

Betty was predeceased by her parents; by her husband, Dr. John L. McCain; and by her brother, Dr. Horace T. Ray, Jr. She is survived by her son, Paul P. McCain III (Beth) of Raleigh; her daughter, Eloise McCain Hassell (Robby) of Greensboro, North Carolina; grandchildren Elizabeth McCain Irwin (John), Dr. Emily M. McCain (Josh Goughnour), John L. McCain II, Capt. Mary Howell Hassell (USAF, Ret'd), and Bayly M. Hassell; several nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and nephews; and great-grandchildren Blythe and Henry irwin.

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and Don curtailed “fun” trips but watched online as grandson Benton receive his master’s from St. Andrews in Edinburgh. Granddaughter Zoe is a new George Washington University graduate. Sara Barber Weatherman had great results from Mako surgery, which replaced her kneecap and returned her to golf. She still manages an archive program at St. Paul’s, with organized files and a spreadsheet. Ginger Vann King’s husband, Bill, died recently and related paperwork kept her from our reunion, a rare absence. Writing for many, Dickie Robinson Tyler began, “Not much news, just getting older!” Son Dawson’s DownEast Preservation (restoration and construction) business in Edenton continues to boom. Daughter Blair’s four children are “all over the U.S.” Carole Barber Fauth is summering on Lake Michigan, maintaining her schedule of spring and fall in Charlottesville, Virginia, with winters in Key West. Kemp Taylor, her “Yankee grandson” and WFU grad, loves film editing in N.Y.C. Her four other grands are Virginians. We commiserated on the “joys” of de-cluttering for those who must double-check both sides of every scrap of paper before tossing. If only there were another way! Jane Bellamy Venters sends greetings and mentioned a double pneumonia hospital stay for Annie Gray Calhoun Lane, who’d just attended Wilmington’s Saint Mary’s luncheon this spring. Her granddaughter, Emeline Thorpe, married Andy Jones on the Davidson College campus and lives in Wilmington, where attorney Andy practices. That is great news to Annie Gray, who pens, “At 85 and 91, Charlie and I have both dealt with health issues this year.” She concludes by mentioning Jessie Allen Ogburn’s beach visit, celebrated with a mini-reunion lunch including Jane. News of Lou Johnson Johanson’s move to a lovely Raleigh facility came from Jessie: “She is doing therapy and making progress. As always, she is upbeat and adorable.” As many, Jessie’s travel days since 2019 have been quiet; but now that she feels travel is safer, she’s off to France and England this summer. Through Kit’s conversations with Ann Shepherd Engel, we learned the Engels also halted traveling which caused “Shep” to miss our reunion. Ann Rountree Lineweaver may be found playing bridge, regular swimming, and book and lecture clubs “while trying to stay healthy.” Emmy McNeill Sconyers and Jim are involved with their seven grandchildren (ages 13-21), attending many graduations. She looks forward to studying the Book of John in Bible Study Fellowship: bsfinternational.org. Billie Edmondson Hand maintains her split residences: two months at a time in Asheboro and the next two in Ocala, Florida. Learn where she is at bjhand10@aol.com. Weezie Key Miller has a new Georgia address and email: LouiseKeyM@ aol.com. In response to our mailed class list, Sybil Mathis Patterson requested a resend with, “I am still alive and would like to know who else is.” Mary Bahnsen Mullen and her Seattle sidekick, Dewey Walker (a Fayetteville High School classmate of mine), flew to Dewey’s 50th Medical School reunion at UNC-Chapel Hill. That allowed Mary to visit classmates from her Chapel Hill High School days. Always happy

to get updates from my “roomie,” Lucy Wooten Wofford. Her major news is college selection by her grands. Several schools are courting her son Russell’s son Richard, a star rugby player.

Teddy leaves the Marines to return to college, and granddaughter Lucy is “thinking about college.” Hard to realize Russell is heading to his 40th reunion at Princeton. Missed chatting with Penelope Currie, but her niece, also Penelope, shared a new address and phone number (on our updated class list). And, finally, a heartbreaking response from Babe Middleton Nobles, “I have only sad news to report. Our daughter Helen Nobles ’93HS ’95C, died unexpectedly at home from natural causes on May 1. She had just spent Saturday at her Saint Mary’s 30th reunion then went to Chapel Hill to take her two nieces to dinner.” Helen enjoyed her special and full day, leaving her parents comforted that she was happy and without suffering on her final day. Michael Gardner Moore writes from Ross, California, that we’ll get news in next year’s letter. Currently she’s “still trying to catch up with ‘things’” with a disabled spouse. “Best wishes to classmates on the East Coast.” Thanks to all who responded. Feeling blessed to have all three sons and families in North Carolina, with grands deciding on colleges. The local three grands are completing or working on Eagle Scout requirements. All seven are using their talents and faith to improve the world. Grateful to God and fondly recalling our foundation at Saint Mary’s that encouraged a servant life in fellowship. That still works! Barbara

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HIGH SCHOOL Judy Crumpler Lyon writes from Morehead City. She lost her dear husband, Mark, on Jan. 3, 2020, and is still adjusting to life without her soul mate. The rescue pup they shared, Sir Bentley, is now her “service dog and soul mate.

God has blessed me with him.” Judy underwent major back surgery in March of 2022, and has needed extensive physical therapy. “Don’t ever believe you can’t accomplish your goals. You can with your belief in yourself and always with your belief in God and His helping hand.” Joyce Batchelor Parks of Greenville, South Carolina, reports, “My granddaughter, Carrington, was married in December at Christ Church Episcopal in Greenville. She graduated from Wofford College and did graduate studies at the University of Georgia. She is teaching while her husband finishes law school in May at the University of Georgia. They will settle in Gainesville, Georgia, where he will be employed as legal counsel for the Northeast Georgia Health System.”

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COLLEGE Catherine Church reports, “I am living at Penick Village Retirement Community in Southern Pines. Have six grandchildren and nine greatgrandchildren. Since retirement, I’m enjoying my hobby of oil painting.” Connie Fisher

Johnson ’57HS ’59C is living at the Cardinal at North Hills in Raleigh. Sylvia Crumpler Nash ’57HS ’59C has moved to Wilmington. “In March of 2023, Brent and I moved from Main Street in Tarboro, a lovely old house built in 1850, which we have lived in since 1962. We are in an apartment at Trinity Landing in Wilmington. We have two children living in Wilmington and we are very happy here!”

1960

COLLEGE Blanche Bonner Stevens writes that she and Walker planned to have their family at Atlantic Beach in July. “But we will be missing our grandson who is completing his first year at THE U.S. Air Force Academy.” Sally Bickerstaff Hatcher ’58HS ’60C says, “I thought in this old age, life was supposed to slow down – not so! Life seems to be busier, but that is a good thing! We have 11 grandchildren and two greatgrands, and I love every minute of being with them! We are thankful for good health (not perfect, but not complaining). Madden is still practicing law, mostly part-time, but goes to the office every day. I stay involved with several organizations and enjoy them very much. Life is good and we are thankful! I miss seeing my Saint Mary’s friends. I wouldn’t take anything for the wonderful experience I had at Saint Mary’s!”

1961

HIGH SCHOOL Cynthia Nixon Mastro writes from Elizabeth City, “The past year has been one of international and domestic travel: a week in Quito, Ecuador, with other parishioners of my local Christ Episcopal Church, during which time we helped to improve a new church in a low-income area, as well as renovate a home for homeless young men. There was also a two-week tour of Costa Rica, a short trip to Arizona to visit with childhood friends, and several trips to the Pittsburgh area to visit family and friends.” Jeanne Stinnett Stillwell-Bullard reports that she still lives in Fort Worth, Texas.

1961

COLLEGE Bitsy Wingfield Dick reports that she and Jeffrey have moved to Greensboro, Georgia.

They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary last August. Pam Voliva Crutchfield is the grandmother of eight. “I am enjoying my book clubs, Junior League of Philadelphia activities, church activities, and traveling.” She recently visited Corolla on the Outer Banks. She also enjoys walking and spoiling her grandchildren.

Marty Hamilton Spearman has been busy with grandchildren’s weddings, and has to more to go, but says it is all great fun. She and husband Pete, who live in Chapin, South Carolina, are also great-grandparents to precious Asher (2).

Betty Lynch Hammond moved to WestminsterCanterbury in May 2022. “It’s a lovely senior retirement community on the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia Beach. Many activities, lovely view of

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the water, friendly people, and delicious food! I see G. G. Saunders Buxton and Becky Elmore Clement occasionally. My lovely granddaughter was married in South Carolina near our family beach house in May!”

1962

COLLEGE Mary Larsen Jordan ’62C Vickie McKenzie Armes writes, “Serving on the Saint Mary’s Alumnae Council and the Grandparents Committee has truly kept me in the know with all that is happening at our beloved school. From the new Head of School Adam Holden to the administrative staff, faculty, board of trustees, and so on, everyone seems to be on the same page when it comes to their vision for the school. Granddaughter Sarah Pratt Armes ’23 loved her four years as a Saint and served as senior warden on the vestry this year. Needless to say, her graduation was bittersweet for both of us. Like her two older brothers, she will be headed to Carolina in the fall. I keep in touch with Lynn Boyce Purdie Brennan, and had a long phone visit with my roommate, Susan Nash Smith, whose husband died in March. Sandra Tapp Pippen writes, “My memories of two years at Saint Mary’s are clear and fun, and full of respect for the academics, wonderful friendships, and Smedes second floor. Much love to you and to Saint Mary’s.” Cornelia Hines Pelzer’s youngest grandchild was graduating in June from Exeter in New Hampshire. Cornelia was looking forward to attending the ceremonies.

Next year, this granddaughter will be attending Pomona, so she will be back on the West Coast after three years in New England. Cornelia is very proud of her! “My son, Frank, has invited all nine family members back to Hawaii for Christmas! We will be attending for the third consecutive year, which is an enormous treat! It is a long trip but well worth the effort to spend 10 days together!” Nancy Vance Ashmore Cooper continues to enjoy life at her Hendersonville retirement community but is “asking for classmates’ advice on: (1) How to make friends with a mouthful of dentures, (2) tips for a stubborn beagle pup, and (3) best ways to keep bunnies out of flower beds! All suggestions appreciated! Over and out.”

Tricia Armstrong Foy ’60HS ’62C enjoyed a fun and informative alumnae luncheon in Wilmington, North Carolina. She adds that her father, Roy Armstrong, who was director of admissions at UNC-Chapel Hill in the 1950s, informed her that she would attend Saint Mary’s for four years “because the best transfer students who came to Carolina came from there. My mother, recognizing my mischievous personality, waxed more Shakespearian, saying ‘Get thee to a nunnery!’ I never thought of Saint Mary’s as a nunnery, but rather as a school that encouraged me to be the best version of myself.” As for me, Mary Larsen Jordan, I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to Emily Smith ’01 and Mary Virginia Swain ’77C for their help in writing this column for this newsletter. I have a dislocated right shoulder, due to arthritis, and when I told Mary Virginia about my situation she jumped right in and said Emily would help me with this article. So, thank you, ladies, very much! Anyway, as several others have discussed, watching my grandchildren grow up is something else. I enjoy the heck out of them, but certainly wish they would slow down with the process. The other day I was with my 12 -year-old twin grandsons and I suddenly realized that their voices had dropped! I almost started to cry thinking they are no longer “my little boys!” Like many others, they have days filled with school, friends, and sports. So, Grandma needs to run to catch up with them! Otherwise, I will just be happy as a clam once this shoulder is replaced, and I’ll hopefully feel “normal” again. Thanks to all of you for your letters. Please let’s try for even more letters next time!

Everyone please stay healthy and safe and just because we have been told that COVID is done, please continue to wash your hands! This is your friendly nurse speaking! Take care, everyone! Mary

1962

HIGH SCHOOL and

1964

COLLEGE Janie Stronach Wood ’62HS ’64C Once again, I have enjoyed hearing from classmates. Elsie Ives Thompson

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’64C writes that she and Holden, who died in 2022, moved to an independent and continuing care center in Atlanta. Elsie has many friends there and many fun activities, and four restaurants are available. Elsie retired after 17 years working as a realtor with Harry Norman Realtors, where she worked with her daughter. She is looking forward to a little golf in the future, once her neck and shoulder are on the mend. Mary Stallings Parrish ’64C is playing tennis and bridge twice a week. She is a volunteer for the New Bern Historical Society and serves on the board, as well as a Stephen Ministry leader at Christ Episcopal Church. Jane DeLoach Woolley ’64C is currently enjoying an unexpected career as a certified personal trainer ASCM -CPT, in cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation at Chattanooga Memorial Hospital in Tennessee. Susan Spangler Hendricks ’64C writes that she and Lloyd have moved to Still Hopes Episcopal retirement community in Columbia, South Carolina. They are very happy there.

They have five wonderful grandchildren who they see often. Tom and I have had a very busy year, not only with bed and breakfast guests, but also with receptions for the Williamsburg Antique dealers and with the Descendants of Signers of the Declaration of Independence. Next year will be the 250th anniversary of the Edenton Tea Party, and the opening of the Historic Hayes Museum House, which is said to be “the Mount Vernon of North Carolina!” Two cruise boats are presently being built in Edenton, one includes a dinner cruise of Northeastern towns. Son Thomas enjoys his law practice, Godwin and Wood, in Gatesville, while his wife, Adrian, continues to add thousands of followers to her blog, Tales of an Educated Debutante. Grandsons Thomas and Russell have loved being at Episcopal High School. Thomas is at Oxford University for summer school, and Russell is at Duke for a science program. Granddaughter Blair is enjoying being in Edenton for another year before she ventures off to boarding school. Daughter Caroline and her husband, Bobby Hauser, enjoy living in Pilot Mountain. My sister, Anne Stronach Genter ’53HS ’55C was looking forward to her granddaughter’s wedding in Pittsburgh this summer. I communicate as often as possible with Dickie Robinson Tyler ’56HS ’58C, Boo Robinson Beasley ’54HS ’56C, Amelia Yancey Bond ’59HS ’61C, Frances Holton Maffit ’60HS, Debbie Ellis Boyle ’64HS ’66C, Marguerite McKee Moss ’62HS, Jean Winbourne Boyles ’62HS, and Lindsay Smith Newsom ’64HS. I saw Susan Ehringhaus-Bondurant ’62HS ’64C at the Coral Bay Club and she looked as pretty as ever! Next year, it is hard to believe, will be our 60th reunion! Respectfully submitted: Janie Stronach Wood ’62HS ’64C

1963

HIGH SCHOOL Alleen Cater ’63HS Seven of us attended the reunion in April: Lindsay Smith Newsom and Kris Augustine of Raleigh; Louise Clark Ravenel of Charleston and Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina; Helen Wright Redwine of Charlotte, Gene Grantham Foster of Winston-Salem; Linda Connelly of Atlanta; and I all enjoyed the delightful cocktail gathering Friday evening. It was followed by our class dinner at a great restaurant, and the Saturday morning/lunch gathering. The Chapel is still as serenely beautiful as ever, the entire campus is maintained at a high level, and the entire atmosphere is upbeat and welcoming. Lunch and the program were excellent. Then the surprise came: I was caught totally off-guard to be honored with the Outstanding Alumna Award for 2023. I cannot imagine that anything I have done is worthy of this, but I am deeply humbled and enormously grateful for this singular honor. Thank you, Saint Mary’s, and thank you to each classmate who has kept in touch through 60 years and made it fun! Photos of our group at the reunion have been posted on Facebook pages, and can be found by searching Alleen Cater or Kris Augustine. Several other classmates wrote that they had family weddings, grandchildren’s graduations, and other previous commitments which kept them from attending the reunion. Next time! Alice Stallings Lowry writes from New Orleans that she is thrilled to have family nearby. They enjoy going out with them and doing things together. Alice and Jon celebrate their 50th anniversary in May! Perry Van Dyke writes that she loves being grandmother “Sweet P.” Granddaughter Perry Morgan is a junior at Texas Christian University and loves it, especially her Kappa sisters. Grandson William Morgan enjoyed his freshman year at East Carolina, majoring in construction management.

Grandson Burke Van Dyke (6) is in kindergarten in Charlotte and plays well

SAINT MARY’S REMEMBERS

Jerome “Jerry” Johnson Richardson Former Trustee

Former Saint Mary’s Trustee Jerry Richardson died March 1, 2023, at the age of 86, at his home in Charlotte, North Carolina. Richardson was the founder and longtime owner of the Carolina Panthers football team, the second former NFL player to own a team.

After excelling on the football team at Wofford College, Richardson was drafted by the Baltimore Colts. He played two seasons for them, including their 1959 NFL Championship win. After his playing career, Richardson built a business empire, beginning as a Hardee’s franchisee. He went on to cofound Spartan Foods and serve as CEO of the food service company Flagstar.

By the late 1980s, Richardson had begun working toward bringing the NFL to the Carolinas via an expansion team. He won his bid and established the Carolina Panthers, who debuted in the NFL in 1995, based in Charlotte. Widely recognized for his accomplishments, Richardson is the only person inducted into both the North and South Carolina Business and Sports Halls of Fame. He was also a recipient of both the Order of the Palmetto in South Carolina and The Order of the Longleaf Pine in North Carolina.

Richardson’s philanthropic contributions total more than half a billion dollars, much of it given anonymously. His more public activities included Wofford College; the International African American Museum (IAAM) in Charleston, South Carolina; The University of North Carolina Charlotte; Saint Mary’s School; and Spartanburg County’s philanthropy center; which occupies the site of his first Hardee’s restaurant. A quiet philanthropist who was always looking out for those who could use a helping hand, he endowed bus trips to the new IAAM for schoolchildren from less affluent districts and funded a significant increase in the minimum wage for Wofford’s maintenance staff. The only child of George Bertram Richardson and Mary Williams Richardson, Jerome Johnson Richardson was born in a farmhouse in Spring Hope, North Carolina, July 18, 1936, and graduated from Fayetteville High School. He later graduated from Wofford College where he was an Associated Press Little All-America selection in 1957 and 1958 and still holds several school records in football. Drafted in the 13th round by the defending World Champion Baltimore Colts, Richardson played two seasons in the NFL, earning Colt Rookie of the Year honors in 1959. He caught a touchdown pass in the 1959 NFL World Championship Game from quarterback Johnny Unitas.

Richardson is survived by his Wife, Rosalind Sallenger Richardson, son Mark Sallenger Richardson (Kathryn), daughter Ashley Richardson Allen ’81C (Steve) and daughter-in-law, Kathleen Crouch Richardson. His late son Jerome Johnson (“Jon”) Richardson Jr. passed away in 2013 after a lengthy battle with cancer. His grandchildren are Caroline Allen Campbell (Chris), Steven Matthew Allen (Martha), Lukas Richardson Allen (Ivey), Hannah Allen Myers ’07 (Evan), Jerome Johnson Richardson III (Rachel), Rose Richardson Skibek (Jason), Claire Crouch Richardson, Asbury (Ace) Sallenger Richardson (Abigail), Raven Rosalind Richardson, and 9 greatgrandchildren.

Congratulations, to Valeta Sledge Pittman ’70HS ’72C, center, on receiving the Ann Fralin Award from the Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke, Virginia.

The Ann Fralin Award recognizes the recipient for her vision, commitment to and support of the arts, education, and the quality of life in the local community and beyond.

Valeta is pictured at the Taubman’s annual women’s benefit luncheon with Jane Eggleston Coulter ’71C, left, and Mary Dana Hinton ’88HS, right.

The award was presented at the luncheon, which celebrates women, art, and art education.

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SAINT MARY’S REMEMBERS

with his sister, Mary James (2). She was named for Perry’s mother, Mary James Perry Grimes ’39C. We mourn the loss of Rosalie Hanley Blowe, who died in 2022. Respectfully submitted, Alleen

Doris Barwick Parker

Former Bookstore Manager and Development Office Secretary Doris Barwick Parker, former Saint Mary’s bookstore manager and switchboard director, died Sunday, June 25, 2023, at the age of 87. She was a familiar, beloved, and friendly face in the bookstore when it was on the second floor of the student union building (now ChanPoyner Hall) above the dining hall in the 1970s and 1980s.

She also served as a secretary in the development and alumnae office. She worked at Saint Mary’s from 1966 through the 1980s. She had previously worked with Dillon Supply Company, Noland Plumbing and Heating Company in Kinston, and Carolina Telephone and Telegraph in Kinston. Doris was the mother of Deb Parker ’80HS ’82C. Deb shares a remembrance of her mother she wrote this summer in lieu of a traditional obituary. “She was kind, she was funny, she was smart, she was determined, she was pretty, and she was my favorite tomboy. She grew up in the tobacco and cotton fields of eastern North Carolina alongside her older sisters. When her work in the fields and her chores were done, she played with the doll houses her mother made for her out of empty cereal boxes and snuff tins and she ran up and down those dusty field-side dirt roads with her dog Bull.

Bull taught her devotion, her sisters taught her how to work hard and play fair, and her mother taught her how to fish and sew, how to let the Lord love her and how to pick on somebody with a grin so sweet it felt like a Valentine. She could bait a good hook, tie a tight knot, cook field peas and spring cabbage just right, and make a plate of biscuits without a measure.

She could haul in an anchor, shoot a basketball and a .22, crack a good joke, lend an ear that felt like a hug, and she always dreamed bigger for you than she thought to do for herself. Whether she taught you to tie your shoes or how to work the switchboard at Saint Mary’s she was all in for you, she was loved for it, and she will be mightily missed.”

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Left to right: Lindsay Smith Newsom ’63HS, Kristin Augustine Christensen ’63HS ’65C, Alleen Cater ’63HS ’65C, Gene Grantham Foster ’63HS, Helen Wright Redwine ’63HS, Louise Clark Ravenel '63hs ’65C, Louise Clark Ravenel ’63HS ’65C

1963

COLLEGE Sue Battle Moore ’63C Dear Class of ’63C, there were “slim pickin’s” from you this year but it was still news you needed to know. Sadly, Nina Thiem Jackson of Raleigh informed me of the death of classmate Libby Beury in January 2023. Like the rest of us Nina is still “shufflin’ along...albeit a little slower”! More sad news came from Dr. Carl Rubenstein in Oklahoma City who reported that his wife and our classmate Debbie Levine Rubenstein died August 31, 2022. Good news came from Sada Mason Huggins in Augusta, Georgia.

According to Sada, “Life is good. I’m healthy, with a wonderful family, including eight grandchildren, seven of whom have already graduated from colleges around the country. One is a veterinarian, one is a CPA, two are engineers, etc. The youngest grandchild is a sophomore at the University of Richmond.” Sada is understandably “thankful to God for all my many blessings.” How pleasantly surprised I was to hear from Roseanne Hollis Brandt, who admitted that this was the first time she had ever submitted her news for our class newsletter! All I can say is “better late than never!” At long last, here is Roseanne’s news: She met and married Fred Brandt, originally from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, in Washington, D.C., and they moved shortly thereafter to Pittsfield, Massachussetts. Four years later, they moved to Charlotte, where she and Fred loved being nearer Roseanne’s parents and her sister, Lucy Hollis Jones ’69C, in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Roseanne and Fred had one son, Peiffer, the father of their three wonderful grandchildren. Sadly, Fred died in 2013 but Roseanne still resides in their home in Charlotte where she says, “My yard is calling me!

I hate being alone but I am just fine.” Thank you, Roseanne for reaching out to your classmates and I sincerely hope this encourages others to do the same. I, your class secretary, Sue Battle Moore, am still living in Rocky Mount, and just proudly and thankfully attended my fifth Saint Mary’s graduation: Mine in 1963, daughter Heather Moore Thompson’s in 1988 and 1990, granddaughter Grace Battle Thompson’s in 2018, and now granddaughter May Edmonds Thompson’s in 2023! Ladies, please stay in touch. You never know when your news might make a difference in a classmate’s life. Devotedly yours, Sue

1965

HIGH SCHOOL and

1967

COLLEGE Joan Wickham Sugg ’65HS ’67C Laura Eutsler Arney ’65HS and her husband live in Rochester, New York, and often enjoy visits to the Adirondack Mountains for swimming and kayaking. She is grateful for family: two sons and a granddaughter (10). Laura had surgery sponsored by a medical research study for the prevention of strokes. She is studying pastel painting. She and Jonathan are planning a river cruise this fall and they enjoyed an Arney family reunion in the North Carolina mountains in May. Georgie Campen Thompson ’65HS visited the Saint Mary’s campus twice recently, and reports that it looks great. She was invited as a “grandfriend!” She lives in Winston-Salem. Janet Hicks Bethune ’67C reports that their children and spouses, Caroline and Richard, have blessed them with four grandchildren over the past five years. “It has been the best five years of our lives, and has begun many, many happy current events and future events to come!” The children and grandchildren all live in Raleigh, only 48 minutes away, so frequent babysitting is a treat. Sally Nair James ’65HS ’67C is enjoying retirement, traveling as a lecturer/educator with Smithsonian Journeys and the National Trust.

She mainly goes to Italy, since that is what she knows best. She invites classmates to join her!

Sally has eight grandchildren, two of whom are UNC-Chapel Hill bound. Her daughter, Brooks, moved in with her during COVID and Sally is glad for the company! Christine Hurst Copley ’67C continues to live in Atlanta but drives over to Athens a couple of times a month to visit her granddaughters, Jane and Ada (5, 2), who are a delight. She enjoyed Tai Chi classes and weaving classes until COVID and cataract surgery interfered, but now she hopes to resume both.

Having renewed her passport, Christine plans to visit Morocco this fall and also hopes to return to Istanbul, her favorite city. Clarine Pollock Powell ’67C and husband Rob lost their son, Graham, unexpectedly right before Christmas.

In happier news, grandson Jackson Powell graduated from Woodberry Forest School in May, and the Powells’ first granddaughter, Caroline McKinnon Powell, was born in August.

Perhaps a future SMS girl? Francey Breeden Schauss ’67C and husband join the rest of us in returning to travel again after so many COVID precautions. They are finally able to visit children and grandchildren again and have them to visit in return. Happiness! Christy Block Terrell ’67C and Ed have downsized after 50-plus years in a house built in 1920 near Saint Mary’s. They traded three flights of stairs there for a one-story house in Charlotte, losing 400 square feet but gaining three times the yard. Jean Healy Neville ’65HS ’67C and Bobby moved to Fearrington a year ago and love everything about the village.

She continues to serve on the board of the UNC Friends of the Library and serves meals with their team for the SECU Family House. She also does

some volunteer work with Hill Learning Center in Durham. Playing tennis and walking with friends keep her busy and outdoors. She also enjoys reading, book club, and a dinner group.

Meredith Maynard Chase ’67C spent a week in Rome in June with her best friend and niece.

The really big and exciting news is that McKissick Museum at USC is having an exhibition of 300 years of clothing from Meredith’s family titled, Needlework: Women’s Unspoken Art Form.

“All of my great-great-grandmother’s clothing down to the little white dress that was made for Evelyn Maynard in 1848. I was the first little girl to be born after Evelyn and be able to wear it.

Probably the most important piece is the blue satin and lace beaded dress that was Granny Mann’s. It took three curators with an assistant to box it all up and carry it down from my office.

So blessed that it is all restored, preserved and archived for future generations to enjoy.” Yours truly traveled to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island last September and had fun teasing the bus driver about making the wrong turn when we passed a sign saying, “Onslow, Durham, and Oak Island,” similar to names we have in North Carolina. In December, the Tar River Players presented A Christmas Carol with me returning in my roles as narrator, Mrs. Fezziwig, and Mrs. Dilber, adding child # 1 and Woman with basket.

Mrs. Stamey would be proud. In January, Britain Magazine published a letter I wrote based on what I learned from Dr. Morrison regarding King Arthur. Dr. Morrison would be proud. In April, I traveled to Portugal and western Spain. Being back in Salamanca and Madrid was wonderful. A trip to France, Belgium, and the Netherlands in July was a chance to visit battle sites of WWI and WWII and revisit Normandy and the American Cemetery. Take care and keep in touch. Joan

and the coast. Hannah Vaughan is enjoying retirement, living in a condo in downtown Wilmington with an incredible view of the Cape Fear River. Her latest recreation is learning how to play mahjong. She shares that it’s great fun and good for our aging brains! Betsey Price Savage says that after retiring in 2007 as a licensed clinical social worker, a new career opportunity was born. She became founder and director of the Augustine Literacy Project in Burlington for the last 10 years. This fulltime, volunteer career ended in May. She was training and supporting tutors. Teaching firstand second-graders how to become proficient readers became her passion. Nina Andrews Peyton reports that not much has changed in her life. “Kids and grandkids getting older (not me, of course!). Local grands are burning up the tennis courts and doing well, playing for local middle and high schools. Easier timing for spectator support than track or swimming!” I continue to spend my winters in the Bahamas and have taken a trip or two with friends last summer and fall. The very best was a horseback safari in Kenya with a group of friends from Louisville, Kentucky, and Charleston, South Carolina. Glorious! I took my 16-year-old granddaughter on a generational trip to Greece this summer and we are both stoked! Stay safe!

Trudie

1965

1967

Trudie Turner Arrington ’65C Hello Class of ’65! I hope all is well with our dear class of ’65. Wonderful to hear from y’all and share. Florence Leatherbury Ladd shares that Mobile, Alabama, is still their home. She and Ernest are grateful to still be in good health. All four of their grandchildren are now in college.

Three are at Auburn University and one is at Texas A&M. Both of their children are in Mobile and they love that they are close. She sends best wishes to all of our Saint Mary’s classmates! She enjoys seeing Clara Leder Ladd and Stella Hillard Moore! Jackie Myers Brown shares sad news.

Her husband of 57 years, Mike Brown, passed away in January 2023. They met for a blind date at Saint Mary’s. He always said he remembered Jackie coming down the stairs in Smedes. He was an ATO at Carolina. They married after she graduated from Saint Mary’s, and he was an officer in the Marines. The blind date was set up

by Candy Carr ’64C. In other sad news, Saint Mary’s has received word that Nancy Raley died July 16, 2022. Carol Wilson Brewer Conner shares that her oldest granddaughter is off to N.C. State in the fall. In two more years, it will be two grandsons – where? All is well and they are still splitting time between the mountains

Martha Hall Michaels ’67HS Susan Johnson Hedgpeth writes, “My most recent accomplishment has been a hip replacement with a good outcome. Good timing, because I’m going on a trip to the Grand Canyon and surrounding parks. Teddy, my chocolate schnoodle, is so cute and full of more energy than I have. I have him set to do a two-week board and train later this summer.

A year ago, my daughter, Kate, got married at Graylyn and lives in Winston-Salem now. Happy days!” Margaret Highsmith Dickson says, “Our big news is the arrival of Ann Robbins Dickson –Annie– on April 24, 2023. She is the second child of my younger son, Seavy, and his wife, Lauren Robbins Dickson ’06. Three-year-old big brother Smith is thrilled, and they live near me in Raleigh, which is wonderful for me and, I hope, for them! Grandchildren add a new dimension to life! I have a couple of trips coming up this year, including one with Pridie Clark Ariail and Polly Cozart Averette to the American West, which I have flown over many times but never actually visited and am looking forward to that.

I have also heard from Lesley Mann, who plans a North Carolina trip this summer, and I am looking forward to that as well. Lesley was in

COLLEGE

1966

COLLEGE Susan Crabtree Burns says she is thankful that she and Avery are unscathed by COVID. “Our two grands are in high school and attending proms. We’re still at the Isle of Palms, South Carolina, swimming, biking, and golfing.

HIGH SCHOOL

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her home in Washington state, also awaiting the birth of a second grandchild. Otherwise, life is rocking along, and I am still happy with my move to Raleigh. I have an extra bedroom and love to have company!” Susan Sidenberg Padgett writes, “Sadly, my husband, Benjamin Padgett, passed away April 20, 2023, on our 49th anniversary to the day. My son, Sam, our four grandchildren, and I love and miss him dearly." Our sincere condolences to Susan. Jody Friedberg Pagano returned from a 2 1/2 week course at L’Institut de Français in VillefrancheSur-Mer. Jody majored in French lit at Duke and has kept up her study of the French language all these years – visiting France almost every year.

She writes, “I’m working intensely with P.T. so as not to have a knee replacement after a meniscus tear. We live in Chapel Hill at The Cedars, and it is a fabulous place to live. I am hugely grateful that I live in this gorgeous, vibrant, stimulating CCRC. I highly recommend it. My husband, Joe, is 91 and we had to move. All good here. Kids happily married: Greensboro, North Carolina, and Klamath Falls, Oregon. Greetings and well wishes to all those who may or may not remember me. (I’m on Facebook if you want to be reminded of exactly who I am). My new mail address is paganojody@gmail.com. As for me, Martha Hall Michaels, Paul and I are happy to have all four kids and 10 grandkids in North Carolina. Two granddaughters are at Saint Mary’s, so I’ve enjoyed attending events there.

My grandson, Elliott, just finished his freshman year at UNC-Asheville. Life is full! We had a wonderful trip to Naples, Puglia, and Cetara last spring. Fortunately, we passed our COVD tests at the airport and were able to get home!

Martha

1968

HIGH SCHOOL Susan Byars ’68HS ’70C Hope you all are doing well and enjoying life.

Sweetie Seifert Stewart writes, “Hank and I have moved to the Wilmington area. We live in Leland or as Clyde Williams pronounces it, ‘Le Land’. It has been fun to be here and see lots of old friends! Julia Barfield ‘69HS ‘70C is in Wilmington and it is great to see a lot of her. We happened to see Mattie Simmons Carstarphen ‘68HS ‘70C, and she looks fabulous. There is a trip in store to Tarboro, for sure. I am sad that more people did not attend our 55th reunion but have hopes that we will have lots there for the 60th. I still cannot believe we are this old! Hank has retired, but I am still working remotely for Genuity Concepts in Greensboro, managing online web stores for them. I hope everyone is doing well – it would be great to see more of our class!” Joan Sandlin Bowen and her husband welcomed their first grandchild this year, Evelyn Clary Hudson. Joan and her husband enjoy visits and Facetime with “Evie.”

Julie Kaasa Mackenzie writes from Covington, Georgia, “My husband, Jeff, and I are retired from our respective careers – he in architecture and me in social service. Now we spend much of our time volunteering: with a local hospice, mentoring 3rd graders weekly, and singing in a

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Left to right: Edie Cutler ’68HS, Peggy Froneberger Sturgis ’68HS

choir which goes to perform at area nursing homes. We’re also involved in church activities.”

Jeanne Cross has recently moved to Virginia to live closer to her family. She would love to hear from our classmates. Her new address is Jeanne Cross, 2631 Sandhurst Lane, Midlothian, VA 23113. She and her sister, Jane, recently spent a happy afternoon looking through the 1969 Stagecoach. Such happy memories! I continue to enjoy a wonderful retirement with volunteer work, friends, family, and some travel.

Best wishes to all! Love, Susan

1968

COLLEGE Paula Johnson Stewart ’68C Dearest classmates, I have received texts, emails, and responses on the form sent out by Saint Mary’s. The rest of the info is what I got by talking to our classmates at the reunion. Here goes. Lenora Kendrick Clontz writes that she is living in Jacksonville, Florida, and just had lunch with Leighton Holmes Tesche. Both are doing quite a bit of traveling, she to Alaska this summer and Maine last summer. She is still enjoying working as a residential realtor in the historic area. She just returned from Antarctica this past March, enjoying a two-week Viking expedition cruise, and she was heading to southern France this June, then Maine in August. She highly recommends Antarctica! She says it was magnificent. She went with her significant other and would do it again in a heartbeat! “It is not that cold! When they were there, it was colder in North Carolina.” Lenora’s son, Brian, and his wife and two children also live in Jacksonville.

Leighton’s son, Will, lives there too, with his

wife, Shannon. Leighton’s daughter, Leighton, and her husband, Matt, live in Charleston with their three children, Tallulah, Lockie, and Ben. She gets to see them about every six weeks. She is looking forward to having a grandchild in her own neighborhood soon. Mary Pershall Maxwell writes that she is still enjoying Oriental as her main residence, but also enjoys frequent trips to Chapel Hill to get together with Carla Heaton Bailey and Beth Harris Isenhour. She always looks forward to “Camp Frances” in Pine Knoll Shores where she, Carla, Beth, Anne Hofler Powell, and Cathy Swain Crossett gather at Frances Garris Jilcott’s beach house. “Old friends are the best!” she writes. Carla is now in Hillsborough, having fun being with two grandchildren, going to sporting events, quilting, and traveling this summer to Italy, Costa Rica, and Greece with Beth Harris Isenhour. Beth writes that she is so fortunate to live within 30 miles of her five grandchildren (7 ½, 6, 4 ½, 4, 2 ½). She took a Great Lakes cruise in July 2022 with her SMJC roommate, Carla Heaton Bailey. The cruise ended in Chicago, where they visited Carla’s daughter’s family. She also sees Mary Pershall Maxwell when she comes to her townhouse in Chapel Hill, as well as Joe and Anne Hofler Powell when they come over from Wake Forest. Cathy Swain Crossett writes about being at a great Saint Mary’s event in Atlanta in January with Susan Davis Virgin, Rebecca Robinson Smith, Jo Crawford Phelps, and Carol Malcolm Phillips. Swain missed the reunion as she was babysitting that weekend for her grandson (3) and was sorry she had to miss.

She also has a 16-year-old granddaughter who is driving. She likes to say that they keep her young – but her body says differently. She is looking forward to seeing the girls at “Camp Frances” in June, and I hope I can catch up with her then too. Nancy Bowen Wiggins sends greetings to all! She has been re-elected to the North Carolina Democratic State Executive Council for a new term. She ran unsuccessfully for a district seat on Charlotte’s city council.

Gini, her 16-year-old poodle, still keeps her company and Nancy is still working. Nancy Gilliam Spruill’s twin granddaughters, Sally Spruill ’26 and Sarah Hunter Spruill ’26, are 10thgraders at Saint Mary’s. She tries to get to SMS as often as she can for their functions and activities.

She also has a granddaughter who is a sophomore at Carolina, a granddaughter still at home, and a 13-year-old grandson. Becky Bell Savitz writes that she and Ed are spending their 23rd summer in Cashiers, and growing flowers that perform so well in the mountain air and soil.

The rest of their year is in Tampa, Florida, where she grows plants from seed in the Florida winter weather so she can transport healthy plants to the North Carolina garden in the spring and get ahead of the season. She also fills her time with mosaic commissions and wonderful grandchildren. Mary Clark Whittle German missed being at the reunion and seeing everyone but says she should be there next time after four joint replacements. She is recuperating from her second hip surgery and was scheduled to have the second knee done in June. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing our classmates at

Front row, left to right: Jo Crawford Phelps ’68C, Paula Johnson Stewart ’68C. Second row: Kaye Lassater Culp ’68C, Juliet Smith Barrus ’66HS ’68C, Susan Davis Virgin ’66HS ’68C, Martha Vaughan ’66HS ’68C. Third row: Cece May Scott ’68C, Rebecca Robinson Smith ’68C, Sallie Mann Scales ’68C, Mary Holden Harrell Burke ’68C, Duffy Beasley Gibbs ’68C, Laura Walter Hearn ’68C. Fourth row: Carol Malcom Phillips ’68C, Diane Stockard Wade ’66HS ’68C, Bettie Kellogg ’66HS ’68C, Pat Slater Holscher ’66HS ’68C, Arabella Nash Hubbard ’66HS ’68C.

our 55th reunion. There were 17 of us staying at the Aloft on Hillsborough Street. Cheryl Lee Taft and Molly Richardson Swan were signed up to come to the reunion but were unable to attend.

A wreck on the way to the airport caused Molly to miss her flight with Susan Davis Virgin, Jo Crawford Phelps, and Carol Malcom Phillips.

Cheryl texted she wishes she could have clicked together her ruby red slippers and been with us but juggling got too complicated. She wishes more of our class had linked in on the alumnae Zoom interviews with the top candidates for head of school. She said Saint Mary’s did a phenomenal job with the interviews. Molly wrote, “Life is still good for this Southwest Georgia Saint Mary’s girl!” She just had a grandchild graduate from the University of Georgia with honors, and she has eight other grands who are also doing well! Her youngest are twin girls, age 8. She and Bill are looking forward to the family summer beach trip with all. She was so sorry to have missed the reunion.

“I tried so hard but the flights were not friendly for me. It sounded wonderful! Nothing like a Saint Mary’s gathering to lift one’s spirits at 75 years old.” Rebecca Robinson Smith was excited about getting her whole family together for a beach trip to Ponte Vedra over Memorial Day week: three children with spouses and her three

grandsons (9, 7 and 4). She is hoping this turns into an annual event. Arabella Nash Hubbard usually visits her son, Buck, and his family in Wilmington when Saint Mary’s reunions take place, which is very handy, indeed, and this year was no exception. Buck and April are the parents of Phebe, a freshman at Liberty University, and Buckley, a sophomore at Coastal Christian High School. Arabella’s daughter, Phebe Hubbard Mott ’96C, makes gorgeous leather bags of most colors and sizes, as well as many other accessories of leather and brass. She and her family live 25 minutes from Arabella in Vermont.

She and Brent are the parents of Ruby (14) and Ezra (10). Arabella’s younger daughter, Jaquelin, teaches school in Massachusetts and is an “Ironman!” In October, Phebe and Arabella flew to Hawaii to cheer Jaquelin on in the granddaddy of all the Ironman races, in which she acquitted herself admirably. Arabella reports that it was an amazing experience in many regards, not to mention Arabella’s first trip to Hawaii. She stays busy at church and in the community and is very grateful to God for all the above-mentioned and much, much more. Martha Vaughan Jordan left the reunion and returned to Kill Devil Hills to start a new chapter as she approaches 75. On May 2, she moved to Clemson, South Carolina, where her children, Vaughan and Claiborne,

live, to be closer to her two granddaughters (13 and 10). She says she can’t wait to be there and watch them grow up. She will rent her beach house and return to the Outer Banks on the off seasons as long as she can. Kaye Lasater Culp has sold her house in Raleigh and has moved to her house in Blowing Rock. She is working on renovations and landscaping. She says that she and Marshall have their hands full. Kaye, Martha, and I spent a long weekend in Irvington, Virginia, with Beverly Randolph in March. Peabody hated to have to miss the reunion and we all missed her. Mary Holden Harrell Burke enjoyed so much seeing the “girls” who made it to the reunion. She still can’t believe it was our 55th. She and Sallie Mann Scales had a great time being roomies but they missed Lu. Can’t wait to get together again soon! Sallie writes that she was headed to New Orleans for a birthday and a recital, and to spend time with her daughter, Kendall, husband, Len, and granddaughters Carrow (6) and Evelen (4). Next will be a make-up trip to Alaska that she is hoping will be half as fun as our reunion this year! “So much catching up to do but missing those not there.” Claire Duff Dodd writes that she was blessed to participate in a pilgrimage to Israel in March – a long time buck list wish checked off. She says it was a life-altering

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SAINT MARY’S REMEMBERS

Isabella "Belle" Pescud Williams Smith '63C Former Trustee 1943-2023 Isabella "Belle" Pescud Williams Smith ’63C, 80, died Monday, August 7, 2023, at her home in Roanoke, Virginia. Born on May 16, 1943, in Raleigh, she was the daughter of Ruth Long and Peter Pescud Williams. Belle’s artistic talents were seen in her award-winning flower arrangements and her long history as an accomplished pianist. At St. John's Episcopal Church, she was a founding member of the St. Cecilia Handbells (40 years), chairman of the Altar Guild, and a member of the vestry. She was a graduate of Ravenscroft School; Broughton High School, where she was the co-valedictorian; Saint Mary's School and Junior College; and Sweet Briar College.

Her leadership roles include past president of the Mill Mountain Garden Club, past chairman of the Roanoke Committee for the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, and member of the Board of Trustees of Saint Mary's School and the board of the Roanoke Symphony. She was a sustaining member of the Junior League of the Roanoke Valley and a member of the Roanoke Assembly and the Modern Arts Club.

She volunteered for the Discovery Shop and the RAM Shelter for the Homeless.

As a Saint Mary’s student, Belle was a dance marshal; a member of the Granddaughters Club; president of the day students; a Sigma, and a member of the Honor Council, Legislative Body, Hall Council, and the Young Democrats Club. Her senior quote in the Stagecoach read, “Energy and persistence conquer all things.” She was predeceased by her parents, Ruth Long and Peter Pescud Williams, and a brother, Peter Pescud Williams Jr. She is survived by her husband, William Ware Smith Jr.; a brother, Mason Long Williams and his wife, Catherine Shaw Williams, of Raleigh; a daughter, Elizabeth Arrington Bruner Smith Widerquist and her husband, Karl Widerquist, of New Orleans; a daughter, Ruth Mason Smith Custard and her husband, William Allen Custard III, of Dallas; a son, William Ware Smith III and his wife, Alison Fisher Smith, of Beaufort, NC; a nephew and a niece, Peter Pescud Williams II and Sarah Heath Williams; and six grandchildren, Isabella Willis Pescud Custard, William Allen Custard IV, Franklin Pitts Custard, William Ware Smith IV, Ruth Andersen Smith, and Elisabeth Sailor Smith.

The funeral service was held August 11, 2023, at St. John's Episcopal Church in Roanoke, Virginia.

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experience. She has cut her work week back some as she is not yet ready to retire as she enjoys the work and the people she works with. Claire is having great fun as grandmother to four (one girl and three boys) and taking road trips with girlfriends. She has two spare bedrooms and welcomes anyone passing through Raleigh. Diane Stockard Wade texted that it was absolutely wonderful to see so many of our ’68 classmates!

Diane has been on two amazing trips this year. In August, she traveled with her two daughters and two granddaughters to Spain and Portugal.

Her daughters planned and executed the whole thing, and although she was the oldest, she was proud to say she kept up with the young folks.

“Boy, did I ever sleep well at night too! Although I did have to remind our granddaughters that I am 56 years older than them on those awful, steep hills in Lisbon – ‘slow down please!’” Her second trip was in February, on a 10-day Viking Ocean cruise to Greece and Turkey with Durham girlfriends. Now that’s the only way she wants to travel from now on! “Oh my, those cruise people catered to our every need and ‘set the pace’ for people our age. Fabulous!” Her last grandchild graduates from high school in June. She is planning to go to the University of South Carolina and has been accepted into their nursing program. “It was a bittersweet moment when I realized all our children and grandchildren are now all grown up – I just don’t know where the time has gone! I can’t wait to see everyone again—and we don’t have to wait another five years to do so!

Stay healthy everyone!” I think Diane went to a Saturday class when we were at the reunion. We did save a seat for her on one of the first three rows on the left in the Chapel, where we sat as a class! It was a wonderful service. Duffy Beasley Gibbs was planning to leave in mid-June on a fun river cruise, where she and Ken will celebrate their 50th anniversary. Hard to believe! “All of a sudden, these years are only lasting a month. We really missed our absent class of ’68 girls at the reunion. It is my opinion we are holding up pretty well! Granted, there are some things I dislike about growing older; however, I have come to realize this is a wonderful age. And age makes our memories all the more special! Love you all!” Duffy is gathering info about cruises for 2024 for classmates who are interested. There are a few who are. Contact her for more information!

Cece May Scott writes that it was great to see everyone who came to the reunion! She loved staying at the hotel with roomie Duffy and having more time to visit with all the out-of-town girls. (Cece lives in Raleigh).

Cece, Juliet Smith Barrus, and Laura Walter Hearn were with us Friday night and Saturday for lunch but were not able to join us on Saturday night for dinner at the P.R. But we were glad Page Holbrook was able to join our table of 15 for a very festive occasion. Laura was looking forward to going back to France in May. At the reunion, Bettie Kellogg (Flake) was all excited about being able to take her granddaughter to France and England for two weeks in June. McLain would be able to meet some of her relatives in England. McLain is also hoping to go to Saint Mary’s for high school. She will be in the eighth grade this fall. She had taken the tour and loved it! Flake was so excited about that. Flake has adopted and rescued animals from the Asheboro Kill Pen, a horrible place that many have tried to shut down. She is having a wonderful time with her purchases – a miniature donkey and a quarter horse – and spends a lot of time in Manteo with them. She says her main job now is “scooping their poop,” since she sold Kellogg Supply two years ago! Pat Slater Holsher and Fred are the proud parents of a Bernedoodle puppy that they are crazy about! Slater is still painting and playing golf. They have six grandchildren, and all are great. My main news is that my daddy celebrated his 100th birthday on May 11. My mama, Pauline McNeny Johnson ’43, had to miss her 80th reunion this year as she had a compressed fracture in her spine. I have four grandchildren now (8, 4, 3, and 2), living in Connecticut and Chicago, who I get to see often but not nearly enough.

I had lunch with Lynn Abercrombie Starling, who lives in Morehead City but spends half the year in Florida and had just returned for her time here.

Paula

1969

COLLEGE Liz Burleson Hudson ’69C Greetings to all you ladies. This will be a short letter, as I did not get many replies. Hope everyone is doing well. Sarah Jane Hargrave Pate says that when husband Dan retired last year after practicing law for 48 years, life became more flexible. Sara Jane is still active in her church, civic

projects, and enjoying their seven grandchildren (9 to 13). Sarah Jane and Dan celebrated their 50th anniversary at the Greenbrier and she was delighted to run into Ashley Mawyer Byrd and her family. As we say: “Saint Mary’s girls are everywhere!” Nancy Helms big news is that she moved to a 55-and-older community in Spring Hill, Tennessee, last year and is enjoying all it has to offer. She loves being close to daughter Katie and taking part in activities with her grandsons, Conrad (10) and Drew (6). Nancy’s guest room is available if you all want to experience “Music City.” Doris Holding Leitner, who transferred in her freshman year to N.C. State, says Saint Mary’s and our class have always meant a lot to her. She says that the Day Student House and the boarders she met were great! Doris says that Saint Mary’s will always hold a special place in her heart. Don’t we all know that! Anne Graham Rowe sends best wishes and a big hello from Edenton, North Carolina, where she is running a pet sitting service and Airbnb out of her home.

Anne is involved in several civic projects, D.A.R., and Edenton Ladies Club. Her fun interests are painting, kayaking, needle point, and piano lessons. Anne invites everyone to come visit. From Blairsville Georgia, Sue Willingham Upchurch says that “life is good.” She enjoys volunteering now that COVID has abated. Sue just had her second knee replacement and is yielding to a slower pace. She cannot believe how the “A-word” (age) has crept into the scene. I, Elizabeth Burleson Hudson, have left the mountains. The seven acres and large house were a lot to keep up, so I have purchased a condo in Winchester, Virginia, at Westminster Canterbury Retirement Community. I hated to sell my home but it was a good move for me and a new start for my “old age.” Hope everyone had a good summer. Please let’s all try to keep in touch! Liz

1970

HIGH SCHOOL Sue Wood Smithson writes from Southern Pines, “Staying true to the overriding rebellious attitudes of ’70HS, I haven’t burned any bras lately, but I seldom wear one! My class of ’70 has turned 70 and there hasn’t been a peep from these radical comrades since we put a black armband on the cross atop Smedes to protest the Vietnam War. I’m still in North Carolina, living the dream, but pushing back against the wing nuts.” Lynne Dunstan Fassler ’68HS ’70C lives in Duck, North Carolina.

1970

COLLEGE Jane Wood Youngblood ‘70C Sara Walters Pisani Borden writes that she had two granddaughters at Saint Mary’s! Mahala Bell is in the Class of 2025. Sara Elizabeth Bell ’23 graduated on May 21, 2023, and will attend ECU Honors College as a Chancellor’s Fellow. Nan Wilson McLendon reports that Knox and Bianca were married this summer in Banff. Kit and Lea are living in Aspen, Colorado. Nancy Stewart McLendon Dickson ’08 and Michael have a

baby son named Wilson. “Real estate continues to keep me happy in Little Washington!” Jane

1970

COLLEGE Pettway Tanner Brands says, “Still live in Hickory. I have five grandchildren ranging in age from 19 to four, and all live nearby, so I see them often. I had lunch with Martha Blalock Mebane ’72C shortly after she moved here and caught up on a lot of news! Would love to see you all!”

1971

HIGH SCHOOL Caren Threshie Camp ’71HS Sara Coleman Cann writes, “I’m still living in Richmond, Virginia, and Bruce is finally retired!

Travel is our top priority since our children and grands all live out of state in Charleston, Mobile, and Salt Lake City. We have two grandchildren with one more on the way. We spend a lot of time on the Chesapeake Bay and would love visits if you’re in the area. I miss seeing my SMS classmates and hope to see more of you soon in our travels.” Betsy Brooks Jones and Tombo were going to see their son, Thomas, in London this summer. They planned to take daughter Brownrigg, husband Rob, and grandchildren Jack (10) and Libby (7), all to celebrate “this big birthday year for me.” Katie Jo Lawrence Redhead loved reconnecting with so many from her high school class at their 50th college reunion. Time flies but we were young again and remembering far too many things we should have forgotten! “The campus looks great and a special highlight was the trip to the Char-Grill that Nancy Gregory, Bebee and I made.” Some things are just too good to forego. I’m living in Alexandria, Virginia, with husband John. We are both still working. After COVID abated, meetings came back strong and I’m still enjoying working with HelmsBriscoe after 21 years. I’ve written a book, Life Lessons of an American Woman, which is available on my website or Yellow Dot publishing. Caren Threshie Camp

1971

COLLEGE Betty Anne Queen Bush ’71C Greetings, dear ones! I selfishly love this job! I get to reminisce as well as gather updates from you! Hopefully we are enjoying our days. I sure am! A few creaks and fat rolls but I love life and I am grateful to be alive. Rucker McCanless Eggleston’s blue sheet was the first in my mailbox! She misses her hubby, Tommy, but fills her time with choir, gym visits, and bike rides around beautiful Topsail Beach. She traveled to Costa Rica last year and has an Alaska trip this August. She is blessed and enjoys her teenage grandchildren, Charlotte and Jackson. Down the coast a bit, Lillian James Smith lost her hubby, Percy, in February. “Thank you, Saint Mary’s friends, who wrote all the sweet notes!”

Another Saint Mary’s girl, Amy Carr Thullen ’69HS, passed away in February, and Lillian attended her celebration of life service. Lillian

was delighted in hosting Charlotte Terry ’69HS and Sylvia “Tibba” Edgerton ’69HS and seeing so many Saint Mary’s classmates. Lil was off to France in early May for a mother-daughter trip.

Ladies! Lillian’s garden was on tour a few weeks ago, and I’m sure it was wonderful! Bus trip? We should all drop in for a tour and lunch! Speaking of lunch? Lillian and Ellen Parrish Jackson had lunch in March – so fun! Ellen and Logan enjoy six grandchildren and lots of outside activities.

Isn’t it fun catching up with old friends? My recent catch-up lunch was with Laura Norris Raynor. We apologized profusely to our waiter for staying so long! Laura was lovely as always – still married to Hurley. If they are not traveling or visiting their daughter, Dr. Laura Raynor Martinez ’96HS, and her son, Robert, they are at the coast in Duck, rocking on the porch. Now that sounds great to me! Still farther away, and sending best wishes, is Betsy Blee in Utah. Heads up! Betsy has been involved in creating a scholarship for a Saint Mary’s girl interested in joining the service!

“Military, maritime, could even be a doctor, chaplain, attorney, or a pilot! Please keep this in mind if you know anyone!” Thank you, Captain Blee! Rebecca Stallings Crawford is in Missouri.

Pretty sure she said off Route #66, near Joplin.

Never been there. Rebecca is interested in Reiki energy healing, visiting her grandson with her hubby, and football games in Michigan. Back closer to that grove of stately oaks is Susan Carroll Alexander. Susan and Winston Cobb Green visited Jane Moore Lazarus this past year.

Hmmm – could be another bus trip? Jane lives in Ft. Lauderdale. Sarah Barbee Whittington is in Cary but spends as much time as possible on Oak Island. She and hubby have five grandsons ranging from 18 to newborn, as their daughter just had their fifth boy. Woo-hoo! Sometimes I can’t believe I’m so old! Ha! My two sons both have girls at the University of Georgia and two still in grade school. And my youngest, Lauren, was married at 40! After five granddaughters, she has Patton (1) and is expecting another.

We are thrilled! Pretty sure I will be writing your next class letter from Nashville. I look forward to helping her and investing time with these last grandbabies! Treasured trusts, for sure! Life is short--make a difference! Blessings abound when we stand firm for Biblical values – the only truth out there! He never fails and is always faithful. God bless you all! Grace and peace!

Hugs, Queenie

1972

HIGH SCHOOL Susan Hundley ‘72HS My dear classmates, so good to hear from you all. Katherine Koonce writes that horses are her life! She spent time at cattle ranch and herded cattle in Wyoming and South Dakota.

She was very proud that one day she withstood wind at 45 mph with alternating snow and sleet. This cowgirl never fell off her horse, Josie! Pamela Graham resides in Wilmington, working through her own company, Pamela Graham LNC, PLLC, as a legal nurse consultant.

She has two sons: Kevin “Graham “ Wilson, a musician/songwriter with starlight speedway

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Front row, left to right: Lyn Snyder Worf ’73HS ’75C, Barbara Egerton Tillery ’73HS, Nancy Kerr Thomason ’73HS ’75C, Susanne Owens Logan ’73HS ’75C, Kathryn Scott Long ’73HS ’75C. Second row: Marriott Little Sheldon ’73HS ’75C, Elizabeth Prioleau ’73HS, Margaret McAlister ’73HS ’75C, Jaquelin Jenkins Perry ’73HS, JoAnn Nance Small ’73HS ’75C. Third row: Sarah Wilson Woodard ’73HS, Catherine Phillips Winslow ’73HS, Nan Brantley Bayless ’73HS ’75C, Lucie Jones Badham ’73HS ’75C, Susan Rogers Cassedy ’73HS ’75C

in Wilmington, and SSgt. David Rankin Wilson, US Army Artic Airborne, Fort Richardson, Alaska.

She has one granddaughter, Ella Blair Wilson (6). Coco McConnell Killian and husband Ray reside in Charlotte. They are enjoying their two grandsons, both in Charlotte. She still finds time to direct weddings when she and Ray are not traveling. They went to the Antarctic in January and highly recommend that trip. Coco reports a quick visit with Ruth Brown McKinney and has encouraged her to come to a reunion.

Now, if we can just find Celeste Dickens! Ruth Ann White de Redon and husband George still reside in Boston. She has grown fond of it over the last 45+ years but laments missing spring in North Carolina. She reports officially completing her last tax season after 25 years as a CPA. She and George welcomed their first granddaughter, Zeena George Altawil, in May 2022. She will enjoy spending time with her expanding family and hitting the links. Janet Blair writes, “Our family is doing very well!

Daughter Blakeney completed her move from Houston back to Atlanta last spring and it has been great having her back in Atlanta! Since her relocation, she has a new actuarial job, which she loves. Son Ben is still here as well, and with the COVID restrictions over, has been able to travel. He just completed a trip to Brazil and is planning a fall trip to Argentina. I am really enjoying the slow pace of retirement. There is a little travel in the works for me as well. In

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May, we’ll all be going to Virginia for a family reunion with my late husband’s family, and in September, Blakeney and I will be heading off for adventure in Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho.

It’s been really fun planning it and with the travel in Idaho, I will have traveled in 47 of the 50 states – only three more to go!” Ivy Robinson Loftice and husband John enjoy traveling all over in their RV. Our neighbors think the Rolling Stones have come to visit when they are here.

Deluxe accommodations! I had the pleasure of attending her son, Longley’s, retirement from being a Navy pilot. It was quite the celebration weekend! I also enjoyed a quick visit with her and her cousins, Nan and Rob, at Nags Head.

Always fun! Just spoke with her before the Belmont Stakes. She was in Iceland. I continue to practice medicine in my small hometown of Boydton, Virginia. I live in Clarksville, on the lake, Buggs Island on this side. I raise Angus cattle in honor of my grandfather and father, a few trail horses, and a mini horse for my wonderful granddaughters, Stuart and Bennett. Son Willoughby has started a pizza business, “Secret Squares.” He even makes his own sourdough crust and cheese. He resides in the Richmond, Virginia, area. Daughter Susannah is a family medicine doc with a sports medicine fellowship. She is transitioning mainly to sports due to the horrific confinement of electronic records. They have ruined any quality of life I have. I will be 70 in January. Love

medicine! Love patients! Cannot take 24/7 on a computer. Youngest daughter, Eliza, resides in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and works as an administrative assistant for Rappahannock Electric Company. Loved seeing everyone on Friday of reunion weekend. Had to, then, buzz up to Charlottesville and attend my 25th medical school reunion. Thanks for all your updates!

Keep them coming and stay safe: COVID is still very much with us. Love, Susan

1973

HIGH SCHOOL Barbara Egerton Tillery ’73HS Melissa Falkner Worthington writes that she and husband Tom are both retired and enjoying family and friends, travel, and hobbies. They have frequent contact with their granddaughters: one is within walking distance in Minneapolis, and two are in Washington, D.C. She travels back and forth to Washington, her mother’s home in North Carolina, and other points east, with regularity. But she planned to spend a lot of the summer in Minnesota, which she says is beautiful. Melissa has recently learned to sail, which is a fun diversion on their small city lakes. She has developed a “mild obsession with knitting, pattern design and yarn. Creativity plus arithmetic: what’s not to like?” She says she’s not sure how long this “catching up on hobbies” phase of retirement will last, but that she is

really enjoying it for now. Ellison Ainsworth Parker writes, “Even though I have retired from nursing after 44 years, I am now volunteering in the Zimmer Cancer Center and in the NICU at Novant’s New Hanover Memorial Hospital in Wilmington. I may as well go back to nursing and get paid for it; however, I don’t have all the stress and red tape there was in nursing. My husband, Mike, is still working. He loves what he does, so as long as he can keep doing it, he is a happy camper. We are expecting our seventh grandchild in late July. I can barely keep track of all the birthdays and sports events now, but what a blessing! Mike and I like to travel, and it’s a good thing because one daughter lives in Morrison, Colorado, one lives in Oakland, California, and one lives in Brooklyn, New York. The boys stayed close to home: one lives in Wilmington, and one lives in Raleigh.

It’s nice to have a couple of children and four grandchildren close enough to see often, but not often enough, because they are all so busy.

Other than that, I love the beach (and have frequent visitors because of it, so please come).

I play infrequent golf and am not good, play some pickleball (had to give up tennis), love to walk and read, and love to watch the birds.

Our backyard looks like a trailer park for birds!

I am so sorry I missed the reunion but hope to make one in the future!” Martha Woodard Pearlman writes that she is back to traveling.

She spent mid-February and March on a cruise from Buenos Aires to Antarctica and then went to Morocco in April, where she rode a camel to a camp to spend the night in the desert! Martha, I hereby pronounce you the Travel Queen of the Class of ’73HS! What amazing adventures you get to experience! Nancy Kerr Thomason writes, “It was wonderful seeing so many classmates at the 50th high school reunion. It is hard to believe it has been that long. I am retired and living at Topsail Beach, likely one of my best decisions ever. It is just a different cadence from life in Dunwoody, Georgia. I stay busy still with Saint Mary’s, both on the investment committee of the board of trustees and the Saint Mary’s Forever Campaign. My youngest son just graduated with a degree in finance from UNCWilmington, and my oldest just returned to college in Statesboro, Georgia. I have been busy traveling: Costa Rica in February with a group of friends, and Europe with my son for his final spring break. I hope we can have a gathering before our 55th reunion. That is just too long!”

Susan Rogers Cassedy says she “really enjoyed our 50th reunion even though it’s awfully hard to believe it’s been 50 years. The campus looked great, and I really enjoyed meeting the student ambassadors – what an impressive group of young leaders! We are mostly hunkering down in Florida this summer awaiting grandbaby number three!” Susanne Owens Logan says, “It was so good to see classmates who were able to come to our 50th reunion! I extended my trip to North Carolina to include visiting my stepmother in Nashville, North Carolina, and law school classmates in Durham and Rolesville for overnights. I am busy in retirement with pottery classes and studio time, as well as some volunteer work at an Atlanta area food pantry.

My husband just retired at the end of 2022, so we are traveling a bit more and have been to New Orleans this spring and Asheville more recently for long weekends. We just celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary. (Newlyweds compared to some of you, I know!) My stepdaughters are a godsend. Both are based in Atlanta. One has just finished her first year of law school at Emory and was clerking this summer in Dallas for a judge on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.

My other stepdaughter will start a master’s program at Georgia State University in public health in the fall. I hope to see many of you that were four-year girls in two years when we have our 50th college class reunion. Judging by our 50th high school class reunion, it is not to be missed!” Gina Doty DeMarsh also attended our 50th reunion. She says that Whitaker Glen in Raleigh has proven to be a wonderful place to live. They have so many great speakers come, and she’s learned about so many different things. She plays pool and was in a ping pong tournament this spring. She’s in a group that is studying the origins of Shakespeare and is now covering the history of the English language.

They are also watching a series about the life of Queen Elizabeth II. Margaret McAlister says she is happily semi-retired in Asheville, having moved there in 2018. She has come full circle, returning to the Blue Ridge mountains where she grew up after spending years in South Florida. Being able to hike the beautiful mountains saved her sanity during the pandemic. Her husband loves it there, too, even though he lived in South Florida most of his life. She says she is working hard at not working. In two years, she will completely retire from a career in human resources which she has loved. Her last job with a small nonprofit has been particularly rewarding. Margaret says she was so happy to see everyone at the reunion and was delighted that our wonderful personalities are still intact, even if we do creak a little more now standing up and sitting down!

She adds, “Wow, what a class we were! Love to all and know that those of you who were not there were missed!” Betsy Tom Homewood was at the reunion on Friday night and said that she “enjoyed seeing classmates and other alumnae there. I’m looking forward to our college one in 2025! I’m enjoying living back in Clarksville, Virginia. I’ve taken my maiden name back.

Just felt right! Though retired, like many of us, staying busy with church, clubs, Master Gardening, docenting at Prestwould (historic home nearby), and keeping up with family and friends. Beccy Ryan Reidy ’75 came through on her first long distance RV trip after her husband died. It was so good seeing her. I’m going to try and twist her arm to come back north in 2025.

Regards to all.” Catherine Phillips Winslow and I had a wonderful visit in a couple of rocking chairs under the new pavilion on back campus during the 50th reunion. Catherine has moved to a place of her own in Raleigh after caring for both of her parents in their house for the last few years. This summer she was on staff for the Royal School of Church Music – Carolina Course in residence at Duke. The culminating event is choral Evensong in Duke Chapel. It should be a beautiful service with magnificent

music. As for me, Barbara Egerton Tillery, I very much enjoyed serving as chair of the reunion committee and want to thank all of you who served on the committee and who attended the reunion for making it the fun event that it turned out to be. I visited my cousin, Anne Heartt Gregory ’74HS ’76C, after the reunion, in Durham, and enjoyed catching up with her and seeing her art studio downtown. So, it turned out to be a wonderful reunion weekend for me, and I truly can’t wait for our 55th in 2028! Lucie Jones Badham has volunteered to head that one up, so tag, you’re it, Lucie! Love to all, Barbara

1973

COLLEGE Lynn Johnson Titchener ’73C One word: EPIC. Our 50th Reunion was purely epic! Extraordinary people on campus! What a great turnout with 36 from our class attending!

The following juice is fresh-squeezed from the April 28 and 29 cocktail party and lunch conversations. We beautiful people, lovely ladies, came together under the stately oaks ready to reminisce, point, and laugh! Our ’73C class impressed every other class with our surprisingly large turnout. We had four Anns and one Anna, two Susans and a Suzy, two Janes, three Nancys, two Lynns, a Libbie, a Leslie, and a Lisa. Of course, you remember Gaither, Shug, Bibba, and Blair, along with Kathryn, Katie Jo, Ellen, and T. Candy, Gwen, Judy, and Missy joined Margy, Mary Legg and Elsie. We laughed with Sarita and Carolyn and don’t forget Debbie! Did you miss it? We missed you! But it’s not too late to plan for our 55th in 2028: sometime in April that year. We’ll only be 75 years young – mere babies. Think about it!

C’mon – we’re not just a class, we’re a TEAM! Oh, where to begin with all the stories gleaned since our last news? Top billing must go to Gwen Howard Temple, who had the bright idea to bring her little blue news sheet to the reunion, thereby saving a stamp! She slipped it to me during Chapel – so smart. Gwen traveled from North Wilkesboro to celebrate with us. She is retired from teaching middle school and high school science and now spends her time hiking, practicing yoga, and playing pickleball. Sad to report, Gwen lost her husband, David, last December, after 49 years of marriage. 49 years.

Wow. Speaking of Chapel, which has always been our favorite part of reunion weekend, this year our class was honored to sit in our very own pew, number 73 – our 50th reunion class gift! Thank you, Brandon Wright, for helping us find just the right way to express our love for Saint Mary’s. A plaque will be added to our pew later, with all our names on it. Does that not give you goose bumps? Thank you to all who contributed to our class gift. Next time you’re in Raleigh, go peek in the front door of the Chapel and look over to the right – there it is! There were several house parties all over Raleigh that glorious April weekend. We had so many come from far away. Oh, to be a fly on the walls of these Raleigh homes! With three house guests, Mary Legg Moore was busy! I’m sure a lot of uhoh was un-covered all night long with Leslie

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Front row, left to right: Libbie Hall Farias ’73C, Suzy Maynard Barile ’73C, Ann Beland Brooks ’73C, Jane Hight ’73C, Hannah Dawson Gage ’71HS ’73C, Katie Jo Lawrence Redhead ’71HS ’73C, Anne Brigham Pace ’71HS ’73C, Blair Coffield Schuetz ’73C, Susan Conger ’73C. Second row: Elsie Thornhill James ’71HS ’73C, Nancy Gregory ’71HS ’73C, Candy Currin Taylor ’71HS ’73C, Gwen Howard Temple ’73C, Ann Kritser Gunn ’73C, Debbie Branscome Jones ’73C, Missy Taylor Manning ’71HS ’73C, T. Cousins Boles ’73C. Third row: Jane Eleazer Prevost ’73C, Nancy Heath Isakson ’73C, Mary Legg Moore ’73C, Lynn Johnson Titchener ’73C, Nancy Armstrong Murray ’73C, Lynn Lasater Reynolds 73C, Robin Gaither ’73C, Lisa Tull-Johnson ’73C, Ellen Baumgartner-Dale 73C, Carolyn Hicks Baggett ’73C. Fourth row: Leslie Pretlow Emerson ’73C, Anna Fenner Rives ’71HS ’73C, Margy Perdue Price ’73C, Kathryn Houghton Schreier ’73C, Sarita Hardy Cawiezell ’73C, Judy Edwards Marani ’71HS ’73C, Elizabeth Bost Hock ’73C

Pretlow Emerson, Jane Eleazer Prevost, and Nancy Heath Isakson under the same roof. Did you know that all four of these crazies were old roomies at SMC? (Sometime later, Legg says she met a guy who admitted being one of the NCSU panty-raiders outside Penick!) There’s a blast from the past! They put an end to that panty raid business pretty quickly after the old dining hall/ gym came down on back campus. Who remembers seeing hordes of guys all over the back of the Smedes fire escapes? I do! Legg’s grandchildren keep her happy and on the road back and forth to Wilmington to see little Jack, and to Pinehurst to spoil sweet Kate and Caroline. Leslie is a sort of newlywed. She’s totally happy with new husband Teddy, who is a lucky, lucky guy! We met him. He’s her perfect match. Eleazer and Heath, I swear haven’t changed a bit. Except Nancy has a dynamite haircut. Frank Schreier, Kathryn Houghton Schrier’s husband, was the only other “man on the hall” for reunion weekend. We love seeing Frank at our reunions – oh, and you too, Kathryn! Where were you, Becky Barbee? You were the one who always had lots of dates in the parlor! On the other side of town, Lynn Lasater Reynolds hosted another wild group of three: Judy Edwards Marani, Debbie Branscome Jones, and Ann Kritser Gunn. Lynn and Paul are loving being first time grandparents to baby

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Charlie, born last December. Congratulations!

Ain’t it grand? Not to be outdone, Ann Beland Brooks had a house-full with Candace Currin Taylor, Jane Hight, and Sarita Hardy Cadweizell.

There was a limousine in there somewhere. And one beautiful pickup truck. Thank you, Sarita for taking Nature home! Hight is a newlywed as of last December, but she’s still Jane Hight. The lucky groom is Richard Morgan. She says she’s the oldest bride in town! She reports that during the wedding ceremony, her two- year-old granddaughter (of 12 grands) ran up to Jane as she was saying her vows at the altar. Back to Ann Beland Brooks’ news, at our Saturday luncheon, Saint Mary’s presented Ann with the Mazie Strickland Froelich ’51C Society Outstanding Alumna Award! Ta-da! This award is well-deserved, and it was fun watching Ann receive it. Ann is in Africa as I write this, wasting no time traveling the globe! She planned to visit her baby elephant, Nyambini in Nairobi, and trek to Kenya and Rwanda. Ann also has plans to visit Scotland and Ireland with Candace Currin Taylor next year, on top of going together to N.Y.C. to watch UNC play at Madison Square Garden. Ann and Candy are obviously on the move! Carolyn Hicks Baggett hosted a major house party at Camp Baggett including Margy Perdue Price, Anne Brigham Pace, and lots of great food! Not to mention some random eye-rolling stories

from checkered pasts – so I’ve been told. All three ladies transferred to Meredith College together after SMC, so this house party was epic also, right? Carolyn never stays home and I do believe that cruise is her middle name. She and Fred just celebrated anniversary 11! They love two grandsons (6 and 9). Retired Margy blew in from Williamsburg, Virginia, in between global travel (Italy, Greece, and Turkey) and lord knows where else – why not? Oh, the tales she told!

Please write a book! Margy adores her nine grandchildren – ages 5 to 20 years old! What?

Yoga helps. Anne is now a South Carolina resident. She is enjoying being closer to her son and granddaughter. Three more children and grands keep Anne on the road. One or two or three or…four groups celebrated at the Aloft Hotel down on Hillsborough Street, just past the PR corner. Katie Jo Lawrence Redhead and Nancy “Nature” Armstrong Murray were roommates, and Lisa Tull-Johnson was close by. Also raising Cain in that establishment were Ellen Baumgartner-Dale, Bibba Bost Hock, and T Cousins Boles. Katie Jo is rockin’ the real estate scene in Greensboro, North Carolina, and loves to beat a path to Wrightsville Beach when she can get away. Yeah, that laugh is still how you remember it. She’s such a stitch. Nature has officially retired after 21 years teaching (wow) first-, second-, and 3rd graders at the Montessori

School in Washington, N.C. And guess what? It’s Nancy time! Those 21 years are now a fine feather in her proverbial cap! Nature’s grands are so cute: Clementine, Campbell, Gray IV, Lock, and Sam. Just having moved to Wilmington, North Carolina, from New Orleans, Lisa Tull-Johnson had a big time catching up with fellow North Carolina beach folks and connected with her roomie, Dawn Joy Williamson by phone, but Dawn had other plans and couldn’t join us. Please try to come next time! Adding to all the fun, Debbie Branscome Jones created a custom slew of greeting cards just for us, featuring our old dorm photos from ’73, complete with her own wickedly humorous captions. They were hilarious! Thank you, Debbie, for your hard work – the cards and captions were so funny! We displayed them in Smedes main front hall just outside of the parlor where we partied with the high school class of ’73. Great crowd. Debbie came all the way from Chicago and tells how exciting it was to exhibit her line of cards for the first time at the New York Gift Show earlier this year. Look her up: www.heavenlydebbie.com. Another shout-out to a very talented member of our class who lovingly “threw,” that is, she made, 40 gorgeous small blue bowls just for us, commemorating our special 50-year occasion.

Thank you, Missy Taylor Manning! Everyone received a bowl, beautifully boxed and presented at our class party. Missy started molding and firing the bowls about six months ahead of our reunion. That is pure love. The bowls are perfect – each one so unique. Lots of time and creativity went into those gifts and we appreciate her time and talent so much! Robin Gaither stays off the streets, thanks to her church and the Red Cross. Wait, that’s not as bad as it sounds! She and Blair Coffield Schuetz both volunteered at the USGA Women’s Open at Pebble Beach. Travel and hiking and, of course, being totally crazy fun – that’s our Gaither! I loved sharing our Pew 73 sitting next to you, by the way. Blair flew to Raleigh from Washington State with her golf clubs! That is dedication to the sport, and to SMS, girls. She and Gaither are top volunteers. Blair’s husband, Reinhold, sings. Like with the Tacoma Symphony Voices. They have been on tour to Portugal and Spain. Gaither and Blair, two peas in a pod. Thank you, Sharon Seago, for sending your news from Hampstead, North Carolina. We’re all celebrating our 70th birthdays in crazy wild ways but you have the right idea. The Grand Canyon! Sharon’s all over the place: Denver, Garden of the Gods, and Santa Fe, visiting the Isle Royale National Park and Voyageurs. Hello to Sharon’s new granddaughter, Grace! Virginia Cox Love is in Gurley, Alabama, traveling back and forth to California to be with her three grand-girls. Sweet! We missed you both in April. Please try to join us at our next reunion. Whew Thank you all for sharing your news, updates, funny stories, and tales from our crazy pasts! Last and I hope not least, hello from Raleigh-ville! My life is happily full! I’m covered in water, ink, paint, and two grandbabies! Writing, swimming, playing in dirt, and holding those little ones fill my days. Thank God for Marshal, now almost three, and his sister, Kit, who flew in on angel wings last February. I’m on cloud nine, 10, 11…up to infinity! My beloved mother, Mary Lynn Lewis DeLany ’44C, continues to inspire my very soul. She is now 97 and every bit the whipper-snapper she was back “when.” Mother, along with my loving daughters Winnie and Liza, and son (-in-law) Jeremy, and Marshall and Kit, remind me every day how very blessed I am. We all are blessed indeed, right? Love you all – stay in touch and stay well. Lynn

1974

HIGH SCHOOL Catherine Blankenship ’74HS ’76C One year to go until our big 50th! Everyone that can, please watch for the reunion plans and try to come – believe me, your classmates want to see you! We have a Facebook page that you can join: 1974 HS graduates, St. Mary’s School in Raleigh. Several classmates post there occasionally.

Sunny Johnson Lewis is in Raleigh, still working in the family business, Johnson Automotive, as are her son and nephew. She and husband Rick are healthy and happy and planting the seed for her granddaughter to attend Saint Mary’s. She continues to sew, garden, sing, and tap dance!

Becky Davis Morlock is grateful for all turbo prayers. Her family enjoyed a trip to Turks and Caicos and are on the go again later in 2023. She is 3.5 years into cancer treatment, and reports she is “still alive and kickin’.” Vickie Proctor Gray is celebrating 43 years of marriage, three grown children, and a grandson. After 30 years as a special education teacher, she loves retirement, living on top of a mountain in a log cabin, appreciating every

SAINT MARY’S REMEMBERS

Ann Campbell Fulton ’59C

Past Alumnae Council President and Trustee Past Saint Mary’s Alumnae Association President and trustee Ann Campbell Fulton ’59C passed away Saturday May 13, 2023. She was born on October 31, 1939, in Raleigh, North Carolina, to Hugh and Octavia Campbell.

She attended Ravenscroft and Saint Mary's School. She was a graduate of UNC-Greensboro.

In December of 1960 Ann married the love of her life, Wesley Groome Fulton Jr. They resided in Greensboro for a brief time but moved to High Point where they made their home for the next 60 years.

Ann is preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 62 years, Wesley "Groome" Fulton Jr., her beloved son Bryan Fulton, and her sister-in-law Sandra Fulton. She is survived by her son Grey Fulton, daughtersin-law Laura Fulton and Regina Fulton-Francois (Mike), brothers-in-law, Phillip Fulton (Theresa), Craig Fulton (Rebecca) and six grandchildren.

The loves of Ann's life are her grandchildren; Sarah, Mandy, Emily, Tessa, James Bryan (JB) and Griffin.

The grandchildren lovingly call her TuTu, Hawaiian for grandmother. Ann took such pleasure in traveling with her grandchildren and she shared her love of art and Broadway shows with them.

Ann was a wonderful cook and so many happy memories were made around her table over the years. She had a way of making each person feel special, she always knew what cake each person wanted for their birthday, and she took great care in making the occasions special. She was a sustaining member in the Junior League of High Point, a member of the garden club, study club, literary league, and Bible study, as well as being active in her support of Saint Mary's School. Ann and Groome were members of Forest Hills Presbyterian Church for over 50 years, and Ann served in many aspects of the ministry.

She especially loved to design the Harvest Table each year and arrange flowers for church functions. Anyone who knows Ann will know that heaven is rejoicing, and Coca-Cola is flowing freely in celebration of a life welllived.

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sunrise and sunset. Janet Davis Travis has retired from pharmaceutical research and manufacturing, but still does consulting work. She and her husband have a family farm and forestry operation in Eastern North Carolina. Julia Ridgeway Jenkins is in Raleigh, enjoying serving at church, a new grandbaby, and working at AHEC. She has two adult children and is hoping to get her energetic, 90-year-old mother’s genes. Bennett Wellons Waters is in Charlotte with husband Marty. Still painting and trying new things and subjects. Her grandson was born in 2021 and she is enjoying being with him and his parents, of course! I am in Kure Beach and loving retirement, which is very busy! From your classmates come these messages: Hello to all! Hearty hello and warm wishes! I love my Saints! Love you all! Please plan to be in Raleigh next year for our 50th!

Much love, Catherine

1974

COLLEGE Melrose Whitfield Fisher ’72HS ’74C 2024! Believe it or not, but this is the year, ladies. The year of our 50th college reunion! I know. Go figure. I hope this reunion will be the largest in attendance that we’ve ever had and that we can present to our dear alma mater a 50th year class gift that will show just how much we value our time at Saint Mary’s and all that she has given and continues to give us. Stay tuned for more info on our 50th. On with the news from the greatest ever class at Saint Mary’s! Thanks to everyone who submitted their news. I always love hearing from everyone. The first one with news is Laura Grimes Smith. Laura has “finally” retired, as she says. She retired December 2022 after working 46 years in the pharmaceutical industry.

Whew, Laura! I know you needed medication at the end of that work history. Since retirement, Laura has visited family in Virginia, Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina and looks forward to continuing to travel in 2024. Safe journeys, Laura. Libba Barbour Shelton tried retiring several years ago but those precious kindergartners kept tugging at her heart and she returned. Good for you, Libba! She and husband Scott visited their daughter, Mollie, and husband Joey in Okinawa, Japan, during Christmas 2022. Joey was stationed there for the past three years but will have a new station this summer at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville. How wonderful to have them just in your backyard, Libba! Daughter Mollie and Joey have two children, Liam (11) and Bowen (8). Libba’s second daughter, Sarah Lawrence, and husband Denny live in Morehead City with their four children: Grayson, who will be attending Meredith College this fall, Poole (12), and twins Henry and Anne Rives (4th grade). These grandkids keep Libba and Scott busy and with Mollie’s family moving to Jacksonville, they will be burning the roads 24/7 but happily, I know. This summer, Libba and Scott were planning a trip to Cancun with Sukoshi Williamson Roberts and husband Paul. These two couples have enjoyed other trips together in the past. Somehow, once Saint Mary’s friends, always Saint Mary’s friends. As Willie Nelson sang, “on the road again.” That would be our “motorcoach mama-friend” and classmate, Gail Goforth. First things first, Gail had a total hip replacement in May 2023, and did well. Join the club, Gail. After recovery from hip surgery, Gail, husband Ward, along with their dog, Lucy, travelled in their motorhome through Alaska for two months.

According to Gail, this was a caravan of 20 motorhomes, traveling in mass from Idaho to Alaska. So, if you happen to be traveling between Idaho and Northwest Pacific, Canada, or Alaska and pass (or I guess you’ll be unable to pass such a long line) this caravan, toot your horn or give a shout out to Gail. Safe travels, Gail! Writing in from Nags Head is Susan Dotterrer Dixon. If you follow Susan on Facebook or Instagram, you know she’s a fabulous wildlife and nature photographer. Being on the Outer Banks provides Susan with all sorts of subjects to photograph. If you’re visiting the beautiful OBX, keep an eye out for a lady with a camera photographing birds, alligators, seals, or owls. It will likely be Susan. She and husband Dillard will celebrate their 45th anniversary in December 2023. I remember when. Being a woman of many talents, Susan continues to draw pencil portraits, but photography has moved to the top of her list recently. She has a granddaughter, Millie, born April 2022. Millie is the daughter of Susan’s son, Richard, and his wife, Brittany. Richard and Brittany live in Midlothian, Virginia, where Richard is a successful graphic designer and Brittany teaches fifth grade. Daughter Elizabeth is a registered dietician nutritionist in Washington, North Carolina, at ECU Health Beaufort

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Hospital. Elizabeth loves the clinical environment and is passionate about her profession. Moving on down the coast to New Bern, is where Tonia (Sugar) Bryan Vary lives. I’m sorry Tonia, but I’m going to refer to you as “Sugar.” Can’t help it. Sugar continues to sell real estate with her husband, Dennis, through Team Vary Real Estate. “We work VARY hard for you!” is their tag line, which is catchy and appropriate. Sugar and Dennis have been traveling a lot this past year from Nashville, Tennessee, to Big Sky, Montana, where Dennis enjoys skiing and Sugar enjoys the spas. I’m with you, Sugar. In June, they had an 11-day trip to Israel and the Holy Land, which has been on Sugar’s bucket list for 45 years. Together, Sugar and Dennis have six kids and 12 grandchildren. Thanksgiving 2023 will include the whole family together on a Caribbean cruise to celebrate Sugar and Dennis’s 10th anniversary. Congrats! Reporting in from Charlottesville, Virginia, is retiree Rachael Holmes. I don’t think Rachael has ever missed sending in news for the magazine. Thank you, Rachael. Rachael attended her 50th high school reunion, which was great. She enjoyed reconnecting with old friends. Rachael keeps on the move, too. She traveled to Tuscany for 10 days in September 2022 and will hit Ireland in September this year.

So far, Rachael has traveled to 22 countries, with Ireland being her 23rd.

She is looking forward to our 50th college reunion. Bebe Aycock Krewson lives in Winston-Salem. After 42 years of teaching special needs kids, Bebe retired in 2019, just before COVID hit. Smart, smart, smart Bebe! I know they miss you. Bebe enjoys serving on the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club board, playing bridge, and babysitting her two adorable grandsons.

Liam (18 months) is the son of daughter Liz and her husband, Will McCall, who live in Chapel Hill. Second grandson is Beau (2 months), son of daughter Emily and her husband, Ben Watson, who live in Winston-Salem.

Bebe and husband Scott continue to love living in Winston, where Scott still works. Heading on down I-40 east to Greensboro, Greyson Gates Kuhn reports that life is good. Greyson says that she, Jeanne Turcotte Clark, and Lynn Welton were royally treated at Velda Carter Hughes’ beach home at Pawley’s Island in October 2022. As we can imagine, Greyson says the majority of their time was spent catching up on 45-plus years worth of news and having a wonderful time. Shelley Tosto Snider has taken the big jump and is now living in a 55+ community at Cottages at Carolina Park in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. Not an easy task to downsize, I know Shelley, and especially after living in one place for 31 years! Shelley continues to run the “She She Shuttle” all over Charleston County, shuttling those grands: Asher (10) to baseball, Hazel (9) to competitive cheerleading (just like her grandmother was for the SMS basketball team), and William (6) to soccer. Shelley also wears the “Granny Nanny” hat to babysit a 2 ½ year old boy two mornings a week. Although the little boy is not family, his family is friends of Shelley’s. Fortunately, Shelley’s mother is still living with the assistance of a daily caregiver. Jane Abernathy Hahn writes, “I’m still in Beaufort and still love it here. Very busy with Airbnb. I am the co-host for our family beach house in Atlantic Beach and a friend’s Pine Knoll Shores condo, so if you need a place to stay down here, contact me. Love to garden – come by and see my garden if you’re down and I’ll give you roses! Went on a Virginia Garden Club tour with my sister, Joan Neal, and on the Pilgrimage (home tour) in Edenton, plus our garden club’s tour of Beaufort gardens this spring. I hope everyone is well and would love to see you if you’re down my way.”

Tragically, after Jane sent this happy news, she suddenly lost her son, Brian Thomas Hahn (33) of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Brian died quite unexpectedly on May 9. A service to celebrate Brian’s life was held at Jane’s church, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Beaufort, on May 24. Emory Rogers Church also reports sad news. Her beloved husband of 43 years, John Church, passed away in January after struggling with Parkinson›s disease for seven years. The shining light in Emory’s life is their first grandchild, Emory Simmons Bula, born August 10, 2022, just in time for John to enjoy her first few months. Parents of this well-loved baby girl are Dan and Betsy Church Bula ’09. They live in Raleigh, just five minutes from grandmama Emory. Both of Emory’s sons also live nearby. Emory is looking forward to a trip to Greece this fall with her sister, Elizabeth Rogers Brown ’78HS. Jane and Emory, you are both in our prayers! Beth Nicholson Dick still lives in Atlanta and confesses that she has never attended one of our reunions! But she says this 50th reunion will be the year, if at all possible. We’re holding you to that, Beth. Beth has been one busy lady. So far, just this year, Beth and husband David have traveled to Africa, where they enjoyed safaris twice a day while staying on an animal reserve. They

took in Cape Town and Winelands which are just so beautiful. Beth’s oldest son is married to a young woman from Nashville, Tennessee, and as if the family couldn’t get enough Nashville blood in their household, Beth’s youngest son married a young woman from there in March 2023.

Both sons and their families are living in Nashville. Very neat. It also allows Beth to see both families and grandchildren at the same time when visiting. Six grandchildren between 3 and 11 provide lots of fun and love to Beth and David. In their spare time, they travel, exercise, and play duplicate bridge. Beth Ellington Owen emailed her news from Africa! She and her husband were in Uganda doing a mission trip to a school they started 13 years ago. She notes that it has been life changing! As for the Fishers, Rob and I continue to live in Chapel Hill. Forty years now! Nobody lives in Chapel Hill that long. Rob retired from Wells Fargo Advisors in 2021 and I’ve adapted to his retirement pretty well. It does take some getting used to, as most of you probably know. I continue to keep my hands in my clothing/personal stylist business and conducting research studies for a biomedical engineering professor at UNC. I know, two polar opposite industries. Older son, Robbie, went back to Eswatini, Africa, in May, where he spent three years serving in the Peace Corps between 2010-2013. He just started a non-profit there, a soccer scouting agency, Fisher Talent Group. Visit www.fishertalent.com to learn all about it. Soccer and specifically, scouting is his passion. Our younger son, Davis, and wife Michalia are in Charlotte and have blessed us with two precious grandsons, Mac (2) and Judson (8 months). Davis is in IT sales, working for Park Place Technologies. Mark your calendars now for our 50th college reunion, April 26 - 27, 2024. You will want to see and learn how much progress, renovation, and more is going on at our beloved Saint Mary’s. Plus, if you’ve not already, you’ll want to meet our new head of school, Dr. Adam Holden. The search committee hit this out of the ballpark. Melrose

1975

HIGH SCHOOL Lisa Norwood Nesbitt writes, “We moved to Birmingham, Alabama, seven years ago and have two of our three children living here. Bradley, one of my twin girls, had twin boys six months ago. Along with her four – and 3-year-old little girls, she’s enjoyed having me lend an extra set of hands.

Our other daughter, Elisabeth, lives in charming Fairhope, Alabama, and we go visit them as often as we can. They own a fantastic place there called Provision, so stop in and say hello to Elisabeth and William Hanes if you’re ever there. Our son, Wood, and his wife live near us in Birmingham. Bob and I enjoy playing golf together, riding bikes, and traveling. I’d love any information any of you might have on Becky Williams and Anne Woodruff from our ’75HS class. I’ve lost touch with them and would love to catch up with both of them.” Debbie Whittenberg is living in Louisville, Kentucky, and has two daughters, Melissa and Rebecca, and three grandchildren, Hailey, Carson, and Lilly. Kee Hood Marshall enjoyed a trip to California in April to see both sons, Sam and Frank, and Sam’s wife, Olga, run in a marathon at Big Sur. They raised funds for the National Brain Tumor Foundation. Last March, Kee got together for dinner with classmates Ann Watters Matteson, Kim Shavlik Randolph, Nancy Heathcote, and Morgie Towler Duke. They also have an annual dinner every December 23. “These same four classmates, as well as Carson Joyner Clark, Tricia Urquhart Spain, and others attended the December luncheon. It has been so wonderful staying in touch with everyone! I retired in 2022 after about 43 years in banking.” Missy Rose is director of college counseling at an allgirls’ Catholic school in Cleveland. She volunteers regularly at an animal shelter, for a dog rescue non-profit, and at a non-profit that connects low-income dog owners with affordable veterinary care.

1975

COLLEGE Patricia Holt Parker ’75C Deborah Walter is doing great in Beaufort, South Carolina, where she volunteers periodically as a reading support specialist at Holy Trinity Classical Christian School. However, the last 12 months have been dedicated to traveling. Deborah spent two weeks last September in Iceland with Lou White ’76C and in December she traveled for two weeks in Antarctica with her sister, Charlotte. They spent each day on

that expedition kayaking at least two outings a day and reports it was awesome. In March, they went to the Holy Land, which made the scriptures come alive! Deborah was saddened to hear of Bonnie Bell McGowan’s passing after her courageous battle with cancer. After retiring in August 2019, Rose Taylor Laney, who lives in Mount Croghan, South Carolina, has enjoyed time with her three grandsons (6, 4, 4). In 2022, Rose had both knees replaced and is now pain free! If anyone has information on Ann Stephenson, please share with Rose. She would love to hear from her. Congratulations to Verna Gates in Birmingham, Alabama! She was a speaker at the 2023 International Peace Conference, an Eagle award recipient from Alabama State Parks, named one of the top 50 over 50 in Birmingham, launched a new edition of her book 100 Things to Do in Birmingham Before You Die, served 2,000 children in 2022 through the non-profit she founded (Fresh Air Family), and reports 2023 will serve more. How great is that? As one of the first 50 employees at CNN, Verna attended a reunion for the original crew. Also, three national and international Jewish publications wrote about their annual fundraiser, The Wacky Tacky Light Tour, which supports a Hanukkah house on their tour. Nancy Kerr Thomason retired after 21 years of running a family office in Atlanta. She has been living in Topsail Beach since 2015, working remotely years before COVID started that trend. Nancy’s two sons are 30 and 27. She and husband Mark, who is retired as well, spend some time in Atlanta. Nancy remains very involved at Saint Mary’s both on the investment committee of the board of trustees and the Saint Mary’s Forever Campaign. She is always amazed at the focus and maturity of the girls today and doesn’t remember having either attribute while at Saint Mary’s. Nancy just returned from her 50th SMS high school reunion and it was a great time catching up and renewing friendships with around 20 classmates. She is hopeful that we will have a great turnout at our reunion in 2025! Cacky Daniel McKenzie became a grandmother again “two times over.” Daughter Katie had baby boy #two (Mack) on December 8, and daughter-in-law Meredith had baby boy #three (Ben) on January 1. Kate, Carter, Cannon (3), and Mack are still living in Birmingham, Michigan. Katie continues to work for Gucci in New York and travels there every other week. Collier, Meredith, West (9), Harrison (7), and Ben live in Macon, Georgia. Cacky has had fun getting to know the babies and sends her best to all. JoAnn Nance Small also attended the 50th high school reunion at Saint Mary’s and looks forward to seeing many of them again in two years, as most stayed for college. She remarks that these genuine friendships stand the test of time and loves how easy it is to keep in touch with email and texting. In retirement, she is “Josie” to her precious grandchildren and stays busy playing bridge and golf with her girlfriends, many of whom are Saint Mary’s alumnae. Several years ago, JoAnn spent a week with Bonnie Bell McGowan at Pine Needles shortly before Bonnie became ill, so JoAnn feels her loss as tremendous. Life is good in Pinehurst and Bonnie Bell McGowan’s presence continues to loom large as she touched many lives in our community. I was able to say goodbye to Bonnie on the eve of her passing, and I mentioned friendships and memories made at Saint Mary’s. I’m glad Bonnie was able to be a part of the 2022 U.S. Women’s Open at Pine Needles. It was an amazing week, and I met up with Sally K. Betts Goss while there. January marked my 30th year teaching meditation at First Health, which I love. For the last year, I have been busy treating red foxes in Moore County for mange. The results are dramatic. Many are suffering from the constant scratching caused by mites and will eventually starve to death without medication. Thankfully, they can fully recover and lead healthy lives after treatment. I continue to volunteer for Moore Humane Society, work in my yard, and play golf as often as I can.

Please let me know if you ever want to play #2 or any Pinehurst course as my guest. Many hugs and much love to all. Trish

1976

COLLEGE Bess Knotts Walker ’76C Lou White is now living full time in Beaufort and loves it there. She has a wonderful community and a wonderful church family. Lou plays pickleball or golf almost every day. This summer, she was spending time on the boat, enjoying God’s creation. Last September, Lou took a two-week trip to Iceland. Her nephew got married there. Deborah Walter ’75C joined her,

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and they were lucky enough to see the northern lights. Lou says Iceland is a beautiful country and she encourages us all to make the trip. Lou love, love, loves retirement. Leesa Lybrook Goodson wrote that she achieved her Silver Life Master but doesn’t play much bridge anymore. She still loves to garden and play golf with Tom. Birding and photography are her passions as hobbies, and they go well together. The Goodsons recently spent a month in Florida, where all their hobbies came together. Leesa tries to keep up with Jane Johnson Brady, and they had lunch recently. Leesa also stays in touch with Kate Holmes and Liz Baskervill Goodman. Leesa and Tom have four wonderful grandchildren who live around the corner and can bike over. They spend a lot of time with them. Susan Bridger Ricks wrote that son Hunter’s wedding to Stephanie Wakeford was held March 18. Nothing greater than to see your child over the moon happy.

One and done for Susan and Walter. The newlyweds are living in Raleigh.

Susan said they will get to see them when they come down off the clouds.

Kate Taylor Hill is doing well in Charlotte. She enjoys seeing Beth Dalton Neale, Civil Adams McGowan, Susan Raymer Fanjoy, and Betsy Hardwick Dawson on a regular basis. She enjoys playing bridge and is learning to play pickleball and mahjong. She bought a townhouse in Blowing Rock in 2020 and enjoys spending her summers there. Laura Frazier Norman sent in a picture of a mini reunion in Greensboro last May. Guion Fifield StewartMoore was in town, visiting from snowy Colorado. Dottie B. Edwards Nutt had them over. Mary Claire Thompson had to leave before photo. Front row: Shirley Perrin Martin, Dottie B., Cammie Cramer Kavanagh ’74HS. Back row: Laura, Guion, and Julie Andrews McCallister. Mazie Seinfeld Smith and husband Dan are enjoying their life at Lake Waccamaw. In their ongoing effort to see all 50 states, they visited the northeastern part of the U.S., where they visited Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, New York, and Ontario. They thoroughly enjoyed Niagara Falls and the beautiful gardens surrounding it. Ellie Maynard Joey writes that she is still living at Lake Gaston and the proud Gram to three girls. They’ve stolen her heart!

Ellie hears from Mary Rhett Sparkman on Facebook. Ellie continues to live with MS, and it’s a daily challenge, but it’s not going to beat her! Mary Claire Sewell Thomas sent news that it has been a bittersweet year for her, with the death of her sweet, precious mother, “Lovey,” but also a happy family engagement. MC is still burning up the highway from Greensboro to Raleigh, with three children and four grandchildren (and counting) to visit! Jack (6) and Boone (4) are the sons of Rebecca and Michael Thomas, and Mattie (5) and Wynnie (2) are daughters of Claire and Will Walker.

Mary Claire sees lots of awesome Saint Mary’s girls in Greensboro. She loved being with Guion, Dottie B., Cammie, Julie, and Shirley while Guion was in town for a visit! They always pick up like old times! She is looking forward to our class’s next reunion, she loves staying in touch with all on social media! Gayle McConnell Tallardy wrote that she now lives in the Myers Park area of Charlotte. She asked if any from our class are there, to let her know! She made a comment that she enjoys Christmas cards that let her watch a classmate’s family grow! Jill Ciccone Pike and her husband, Skip, enjoy seeing their 10 grandchildren as much as possible!

Jill stays busy with her art business, Ciccone Art. She is also the author of 11 children’s books and devotional guides sold through Amazon. Jill and Beth Justesen VanNortwick get together often. I’m happy to report that the best day of 2023 was May 4, when my precious granddaughter, Brinn Louise, daughter of Ila Walker Bittner ’05, rang the bell at UNC Children’s Hospital to signal the end of her treatment there. She was diagnosed with AML in October 2022, and this type of leukemia meant she spent the better part of 6 1/2 months living in the hospital, including turning threeyears-old while there. She had incredible doctors, nurse practitioners, and nurses caring for her. I will be forever grateful for their love and care for BL, and for us! Brinn Louise was amazing and so were her parents! During the last round of Brinn Louise’s treatment, my husband, Win, slipped off the boat and severely injured his leg. He is also on the mend and I’m thankful it was a leg and not his head! The day Brinn Louise got home, a house came on the market that was perfect for us, so that brought about the new challenge of cleaning out the house we have lived in for 29+ years! At least I haven’t had time to become idle! I am getting back into the swing of normal life and always enjoy seeing my Saint Mary’s friends on social media or in person! Stay in touch with SMS on social media – so many good things are happening on 900 Hillsborough Street! Bess

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1976

HIGH SCHOOL and

1978

COLLEGE Bebee Bason Lee ’76HS ’78C This year marks 65th birthdays for many in ’76HS and ’78C classes! It is quite a year for many of us who turned or are turning 65 this year, with exciting travels and celebrations and our 45th reunion for ’78C in April was huge fun, with 35+ attending. Anne Martin Cochran ’78C writes that she and husband Rob had wonderful trip to celebrate their 65th birthdays and their 30th anniversary. Anne and Rob flew to Brisbane in March to see their daughter, Hallie, who has lived there since 2017, and then the three of them took a trip to New Zealand. Hallie was with Anne and Rob for their first week, spent on the South Island, beginning in Queenstown, and driving up to the Marlborough Wine region in Blenheim. It was a spectacular trip and a wonderful time with her. Son Rob Jr. (26) is still living in Jackson Wyoming, working for a land surveying company and enjoying fly fishing on weekends. Husband Rob is still selling commercial real estate and has no plans to retire at this point. Anne is enjoying time with friends, has been learning how to play mahjong with Laura Lee Spencer ’76HS ’78C and Peggy Aiken Bridgforth ’76HS ’78C, and was looking forward to good hikes and a fun summer in Linville. Lauren Sherman Peele ’78C sends greetings from Oak City. Lauren says 2022 had ups and downs. Travel-wise, it was a fun year. In January, Rachel Woodruff Carlson ’78C, and husband Rick visited Lauren in Manteo and in March, Rachel, Rick, and Lauren visited Mary Fondren ’78C, and her husband, Terry, in West Palm Beach. Mary has a new vet office there and is still working. In April, the Peele family vacation was Las Vegas, South Rim at the Grand Canyon, and Phoenix – they loved it. In July, Lauren travelled to Tennessee/Kentucky for a high school reunion. Things went a little south after that, as she and her Robbie had COVID in June and Lauren was hospitalized with blood clots in her lungs. It has been a long road back, but she is steadily recovering. Tripp and Brittany travelled to Cancun and Maine in 2022. Robbie took two trips to Costa Rica. John Gates stays closer to home, hunting, and fishing. Lauren has completely stopped substituting and is staying involved at church and a local food pantry. Robbie and John Gates are still farming. Tripp is still working at TEKsystems in Raleigh as an account manager. Brittany is now at Rex Hospital in Raleigh. Lauren saved the best news for last – she has her first grandchild! Tripp and Brittany welcomed Deacon Wade Peele into the family on January 30, 2023. While Frauke Engel Mirenda ’78C is officially retired, she has continued working doing COVID testing for the last couple years. In her free time, Frauke enjoys tennis, pottery, and painting.

Virginia James Shelley ’76HS ’78C writes from Concord that she and husband Mark are doing well. Their sons are grown. William practices law in Charlotte (and he is dating a Saint Mary’s girl) and Mac is in his last year of dental school in Florida. Virginia is taking a girls’ trip with some friends to Italy – sounds wonderful. Like many of us, Marsee Edwards Lee ’78C had exciting news that their daughter welcomed a baby girl, Reese, July 6, 2022. The baby’s big brother Dean is 4½. Marsee has much to be thankful for: husband Doug is still in real estate on Kiawah Island, and they are enjoying Charleston life in the Lowcountry with several Saint Mary’s alumnae. Sadly, Marsee lost her precious mother, Sara Smith Edwards ’47C, in December of 2022. Beth Kirkland Peters ’78C enjoyed seeing all those who were able to attend our reunion! Beth retired in June of 2022 after 40 years in education. She has kept very busy with her church circle, book club, and frequent visits to the beautiful new YMCA in Wilson. The highlight of her free time is spent visiting their 3-year-old granddaughter in Athens, Georgia. Husband Walston sends his hello to all. It was wonderful to see Mary Lawrence Hicks ’78C at the April reunion. She loved seeing many of our classmates and says catching up with everyone and laughing together was worth the trip from California! Mary Lawrence retired from her position as deputy clinic director of the AIDS Clinic at San Francisco General Hospital in August of 2020 (her career having been book ended by pandemics). She is currently working two days a week at a community clinic in San Francisco’s Tenderloin District, staying involved with a much gentler schedule. If in the Bay Area, please give ML a holler!

So good to hear from Suzin Sciabarasi ’76HS, who is also retired and has moved forward on a long-held retirement plan to move back to North Carolina after 28 years in Texas. She is building a home 30 minutes north of West Jefferson, in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia, and will be there May to October each year. She plans to return to Texas for the winter months but looks forward to connecting with her SMS pals once the house is finished. Suzin thinks perhaps we could plan a SMS ’76HS reunion up there sometime--she hopes to catch up with Virginia James Shelley ’76HS and Mary Rogers ’76HS once she gets settled. Wimberly Burton ’78C also loved seeing so many of her classmates at our 45th reunion in April. Wim thought the Friday night class party was particularly delightful since we all had more time to talk with everyone. She, along with Martha Boisseau Mattheisen ’78C, Mary Lawrence Hicks ’78C, Donna Sherrill Steele ’78C, and Elaine Bridger Mebane ’78C, were able to FaceTime with Liz Wright James ’78C. They told her how much she was missed at the reunion and that we all sent our love to her.

They caught a smile on her face as she mouthed “I love you.” Wimberly can’t believe this much time has passed and can hear the clock starting to tick even louder. She advises those who did not make the 45th better start preparing and marking out the dates for the 50th in 2028, as all were greatly missed. From White Stone, Virginia, Martha Boisseau Mattheisen ’78C shares how she too enjoyed seeing everyone at the 45th. Her big news is their fourth grandbaby arrived in December 2022: Weston Parker Mattheisen.

Mason Lee turned seven in July and her brother, Palmer, and Weston’s brother, Waylon, are both five (their birthdays are four days apart). Martha wishes everyone (except Wimberly) a happy 65th birthday year and she looks forward to our ’78C road trip. Oh, sweet Jan Stewart Atkins ’76HS ’78C and I had a good laugh around the update she’d sent in the mail. I returned it to her at the reunion and she’s still laughing about her handwriting and the memory about her sweet dad joking with her to “please call honey/no handwriting necessary!” Love those sweet memories. Jan shares that she’s had some treasured time together with old Saint Mary’s friends during reunion weekend, and it was just “glorious” to be with all who could attend. Jan had a great visit with Kappy Carr Black ’78C in April, saying Kappy is her usual bright light, as aways. Jan and husband Darren enjoy traveling and running his business, II Centro Salumeria, which has been quite successful. Italian dining is his passion. Jan is blessed to have her mom healthy and to see her daily. Bacon, Jan’s pup, is turning nine this year and is their joy. Jan is playing pickleball and working on her bridge game. Nancy Welby Check writes, “Our eldest daughter, Sydne Allen, is pastor at Peace Presbyterian in Winterville and her husband is pastor at First Presbyterian in Kinston. They have four boys 10, 8, 5, and almost 2. Our son, Joe, is out of the Navy and now works for a defense contractor in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, and his wife is an occupational therapist at the local VA Hospital. Our youngest daughter, Meredith, lives in the D.C. area and is the manager of

government relations and public policy for the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Jeff & I are both retired from local school systems. I still work a few shifts as a nurse in the outpatient procedure/minor surgery unit at our local hospital and teach CPR, first aid and lifeguarding classes in the community. Jeff had to have a double lung transplant in January 2022 and has recovered well from this unexpected journey. We are so thankful for family and friends near and far who helped make our stay at Duke and in Durham more comfortable. Come visit us in Lexington and get some Lexington BBQ or a BBQ Center famous banana split!” Rosemary Summerlin Crane ’76HS ’78C is still retired but keeping her RN license active. She was recently involved with opening Raleigh’s first transitional house for men receiving medically assisted treatment for opioid addiction. Emmaus House is a nonprofit housing community serving disadvantaged men with substance use disorders, and Rosemary serves on the Emmaus House board of directors. Rose and her husband, Jeff, spent a month in Florida this winter and they were looking forward to upcoming trips to the Canadian Rockies and Maine this summer, as well as some road trips with me! Rose is enjoying her 2-year-old granddaughter, who lives nearby in Apex, and she was looking forward to a visit from her 16-year-old grandson this summer from his home in France. It was great to see Kathy Reynolds Phillips ’78C at the 45th reunion! Kathy says it was great to see everyone, but especially meaningful to see friends she’d known since childhood in Greensboro. Kathy also noted how beautiful the campus looked and how special the Chapel service was as well. Kathy’s mother recently moved from Charlotte to Richmond and Kathy is fortunate to be able to spend time with her on a regular basis without the long drive on I-85. She and husband Dave continue to divide their time between Richmond, Virginia, and Corolla, North Carolina. They will celebrate a special anniversary, special birthdays, and two weddings for family members soon. Sounds like she has lots to celebrate! As for me, I officially retired at the end of 2022, and I am loving it. Still getting my sea legs, so to speak. I love spending more time in my yard and with our children and grandchildren. Daughter Anna and her husband, Merit Cross, blessed us with a precious baby girl last summer. Son Will and his wife, Hunter, have a house full with twin girls (6) and son Rhett (4).

Son Sam and his husband, Timmy, moved to D.C. in January and are loving it! In closing I share a Jan Stewart Atkins ’78C quote, “Truly know at this ripe age of 65, that life experiences, great friendships, and good health are the greatest blessings.” Love to all – Bebee

1977

HIGH SCHOOL Marty Ward Andress writes, “After more than a decade at Lee Industries as sales representative for North and South Carolina, I have retired! I miss my work friends, though I am super busy chasing my curiosity. Workouts, golf, fishing,

bridge, and travel keep me busy, along with our grandsons, Ward and Weston Brady, who are three- and two-years old, respectively. Our daughter, Leah Brady, her husband, David, and the boys are just around the corner in Charlotte and our younger daughter, Caroline, and her husband, Phil Byrne, are in Salt Lake City, Utah.

“Big Weston”, who has not retired, and I continue to be involved in the Mint Museum and have had some fun trips with them, most recently to Bentonville, Arkansas, to see the Crystal Bridges Museum. I highly recommend it. My parents live in New Bern. We make a pilgrimage to Atlantic Beach in the summer, though have come to prefer the cooler mountain air in the hottest months. Sometimes I see Nella Fulton Timmons in the mountains. She keeps me up to date on her sons. Janie Swain Molster was a regular in our furniture showroom for years, and now I see her when she’s visiting her grandchildren in Charlotte. And, I have to say that every time I see a name written in a rain coat or jacket, I think about Pooh Herring Christophe’s green raincoat. Anyone have a photo of that?”

1977

COLLEGE Mary Virginia Swain ’77C Hello, Saint Mary’s friends! It was good to hear from just a few of you this time, so let’s get straight to the news. Marcy Connors writes from Greenville, South Carolina, where she keeps busy with her beautiful work as an artist extraordinaire. She has a gallery/studio at The Art Crossing in downtown Greenville. Follow her at SouthernAccentDesigns on Facebook, or @marcyconnors on Instagram, to see her work. She is grateful for her two beautiful daughters, Sara and Rebecca, who are both happily married and have wonderful careers.

Sara is a nurse practitioner for women’s health, and Rebecca is a fifth-grade teacher. Marcy’s three granddaughters, Piper, Vivian, and Blythe, bring much joy to the family. Another talented artist, Corneille Little, retired joyfully in 2022 after teaching elementary school art for 20 years. She offers adult classes in her home studio which keeps her busy and organized in retirement. If you’re in Raleigh, reach out to Corneille via raleighartstudio.com if you are interested in her fun and inspirational art classes for a little creative therapy. She still paints quite a bit (petportraitsbycorneille.com) and attends local art shows. She sends much love to all Saint Mary’s friends. Becky Flythe Watts retired after 43 years in telecommunications. She says she has never been happier, and that life is great. She loves working in her vegetable garden and yard.

She is still married to Kevin after 36 years. Barbara Johnston Bush’s oldest daughter, Forbes, was married in a lovely outdoor ceremony on the grounds of the couple’s family compound on Bradley Creek in Wilmington in June. Barbara hosted the rehearsal party at her beautiful newly redecorated home in Wilmington – the home she grew up in. Barbara’s other daughter, Isabel, my goddaughter, was married over a year ago amid the howling winds of a November nor’easter but cozily inside at the Carolina Yacht

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Club in Wrightsville Beach. I, Mary Virginia Swain, am still working at Saint Mary’s, but after 36 years of my work in communications, marketing, and public relations, I am embarking on a new project for the school to write the next history book of Saint Mary’s. There have been two previous histories written for the school – Life at Saint Mary’s for the centennial celebration in 1942 and The Heritage by Martha Stoops, published in 1985. Those are both tough acts to follow, but I hope to create a fresh take on our history with a narrative and many photos of our history and traditions, while catching the story up from where The Heritage left off in 1982. I will also continue to serve as editor of this magazine, so retirement is a few years away. As always, if anyone ever wants a turn serving as class secretary, just let me know! Best wishes to all for a happy and healthy year ahead! Mary Virginia

1978

HIGH SCHOOL Ann Womble Strader and husband Richard have been married 37 years and have three children. They live in Atlanta. “Our son is married and has two daughters (21/2 and one newborn in May) who live in Dallas. Our middle daughter lives in Washington state and our youngest daughter is also in Dallas. I work part time as a health advisor since being certified as an integrative health and wellbeing coach at Duke Integrative Medicine in 2017. We spend lots of time visiting our children, traveling, and vacationing in North Carolina.” Daphne Drew writes, “I have been living in Raleigh, working recent years in medical records, research projects, and proofreading/editing. Proofreading roles included scientific journals and legal depositions. Currently, I am a legal assistant for a personal injury law firm in Raleigh. Except in the pandemic, I loved spending time with six great nieces/nephews and also love my new baby greatniece. I was lucky to be a caregiver for my awesome mother, Dorothy Drew, during recent years.” Liz Little Barnes writes, “I am thrilled to be back in Raleigh after having lived away for over 40 years and getting together with day student buddies! I also love serving the community as a social worker at both Transitions LifeCare and Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community. This May, I graduate from Duke Divinity School and look forward to providing pastoral counseling at both Transitions and Springmoor.”

Left to right: Liz Little Barnes ’78HS, Laura Lynch Riedy ’78HS ’80C, Leigh Duke Bruner ’78HS, Alicia Sedwick ’78HS, Fern Bugg ’78HS

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1979

HIGH SCHOOL The Rev. Liza Ragsdale writes, “Hi from Old Town! I’m missing our great class (and Mary Foy’s class too: ’79C). Bob and I moved for another interim rector post at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Rock Creek, in Washington, D.C. We are living in Old Town and loving seeing oldest son, Dylan Trache, who also lives in Alexandria, and nephew, Marshall Ragsdale, who is a junior at Episcopal High School. Most exciting news is that we have Lovey, an English Labrador, from Canada. Lovey is a hilarious girl and named perfectly, as she is a love to all. LC Homes Dickie ’79C, thank you for your training tips. Lovey still won’t come down the stairs, no matter how many peanut butter lick-pads I make for her. We led our final Holy Land pilgrimage August 28- September 9, 2023. Bob and I have led 30-plus HL pilgrimages, (we’ve both lived in Jerusalem at different times) and know the secret handshake to get into archeological holy sites that are closed to the public. Mama, Carolyn Foy Ragsdale ’54HS ’56C, and sister Mary Foy Ragsdale ’77HS ’79C went with us last summer. There are just no words to describe how amazing that was for me. Bob and I spent Thanksgiving in London with Mary Foy and Mama. Mary Foy and I realized that will probably be our last big trip with Mama. Grateful we went when we did. Bob and I have two grandchildren: grandson Avery (3) and granddaughter Elowen (1). They’re in Richmond, Virginia. Love to all and please – come by for a visit when you’re in D.C.”

1979 COLLEGE Windy Tillman Pratt ’79C Hello Class of ’79C! Hard to believe a year has gone by already. I hope this finds you all doing well. It was fun hearing from many of you this year.

Mary Craig Timberlake Brown loves splitting time between Morehead City and Raleigh and getting lots of grandmother love from their four grandchildren, Eleanor (4), Jones (4), Woodson (18 months), and Mills (10 months). Dana Darden Copeland is happy to report that son Darden was married on May 6 to a lovely gal he met in law school. Both are practicing law in the Tidewater. Lynn Jones Dixon and her husband are celebrating 20 years of C12 ministry to 80+ Christian business owners. She is playing competitive tennis and enjoying four grandchildren: Ben (19), Caroline (17), Nicolas (17), and Jacob (10). She loves bumping into SMC classmates around Raleigh. It was great to hear from Jane Hollinshed Horrocks this year. Jane reports that she is easing out of her real estate business and enjoying yard work, bird watching, and traveling more to Corolla and Washington, D.C. She and Harry have two granddaughters, Ellie (8) and Claire (5). By the time you read this, she will have lots to report from her trip to Italy! Fran Snyder Jones is the proud mom of a May ’23 graduate with a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Utah. Their son, Manning, will begin a two-year post doc in clinical chemistry at Penn State. Way to go, Jones family! Kendall Page is still busy with her law practice in Chapel Hill. She and Mendy spend at least one weekend a month at their mountain house in Hound Ears. I still see her on Zoom almost weekly, and that has been lots of fun. How I loved hearing from Sherrill Cheatham Perry, who definitely loves being a grandmother to Rivers, Wells, and Sally Holt! She nailed it when she said how much joy and blessing those grands bring her. She also told me that she lost her dad last year, but that her mom is doing well. A hard loss, for sure. Gina Stone Rascoe lives in Windsor. Margaret Longley White is happy to share that she and Lee are grandparents to Margaret Ayers Clark, born in June 2022. She is already planning on seeing everyone at the reunion next year. Mike and I love Southern Pines. Last year we had the U.S. Women’s Open in our back yard and enjoyed seeing lots of people come by! I am still working at Stifel and doing calligraphy. Guion and Abby are in Charlottesville and busy with Moses (4) and Felix (almost 2). Win and Tracy are in Raleigh, living in the downtown area and loving life in walking distance of lots of things. We loved being at SMS graduation this year as our niece, Eliza Dunn Tillman ’23, was among the graduates. I hope to see you all next spring at the reunion. Until then, may God bless you and hold you in the palm of his hand. Affectionately, Windy

1980

COLLEGE Cissy Lofton Elmer ‘80C Hi, everyone, I hope you are all having a wonderful year! It’s really hard to believe it’s been 43 years since we were all together at Saint Mary’s, running up and down the halls chatting, studying, and enjoying all of our friends! Diving right into the latest news. Bridget Beasley Wolfe has her first grandchild. Her daughter, Marion Wolfe Schoonover, welcomed Joseph Wolfe Schoonover on October 5, 2021. They are living in Charlotteville, Virginia, and Bridget is still in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and has surely found the quickest route to Charlottesville! Laura Lynch Reidy is in Raleigh, enjoying retirement with husband Mark. Laura regularly sees Elizabeth Little Barnes ’78HS, Elizabeth Arrington, Michelle Pizer ’78HS, and Alicia Sedwick ’78HS, and is so happy to have recently reconnected with Leigh Duke Bruner ’78HS. Sara Vestal Morgan ’78HS ’80C writes, “Tim and still live in Wake Forest but spend much of our time at our home in Emerald Isle. Tim will retire in two years and says he is moving to the beach, but we have four grandchildren here, so I am not ready to make a final move.”

Her grands include Lucy Dean (9), Sara Catherine (7) Tomlinson (8), and Everett (3). Missy Underwood Miller has big news: she has a grandson. Her daughter, Liza Wooten DeFago ’10, and husband Chris had baby Henry in September 2022. Missy is loving every minute of being a grandmama.

Liza, Chris, and Henry live in Atlanta. Missy’s son, Rob, is in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, and their youngest, Katie, is in Austin, Texas. All great places to visit and Missy and husband Will enjoy spending most of the summer in Blowing Rock. Jill Turner Kearse is in Columbia, South Carolina, and happily announces that her son, Drew, married Sydney in December 2022, and they have settled into their new home. Jill’s daughter, Rachel, graduated from Wofford last May and spent her first year of “the real world” in Naples, Florida, and is now living at home, saving money for graduate school and working as a costume designer for theaters in Columbia and Greenville, South Carolina. Jill works in the investment management industry. She just completed a course to be certified in compliance with the SEC, as well as estate planning coordinator. Margaret Cheatham Williams is in Charlotte, and three of her four children are married. She has two grandbaby boys, Hamer and Ward. Her two sons and their wives live in Charlotte. Daughter Margaret Cheatham Williams ’07 and her husband, Frank Driscoll, live in San Francisco. Their youngest daughter, Eleanor, is studying in Florence, Italy, and is a junior at UNCChapel Hill. Colleen Smith Turner is in Charlotte, working in strategic initiatives for Ally Bank, and she loves her job. She and Steven are empty nesters, living downtown in their historic house. Son John is working and living in Austin, Texas, and son Michael is working in Charlotte and living in South End. Colleen enjoys the empty nest, does lots of traveling, and spends time with friends. Corbin Hogaboom writes from the faraway land of Northern California, where she is enjoying retirement more now that COVID’s grip has loosened. They are traveling this year to Nova Scotia and Ireland to play some golf and see the sights. Their son, Edward, graduated from WPI in Philadelphia last May, and is working as a software engineer at Lutron. Corbin enjoyed lots of cross-country trips between graduation and getting him set up to begin the “adulting” thing. Joni Eargle Case is very busy and happy being a wonderful grandmama to her crowd. The latest addition is another boy, Hatch Emerson Hill. Her daughter, Maggie, and husband Alan live in Raleigh and welcomed him to the family, which also includes their twin boys, so at the moment they have three boys under the age of two. Busy! Joni will surely get the whole clan to CharGrill before too long! Laura Lynch Riedy reports from Raleigh, “I am enjoying retirement with my husband, Mark. I regularly see Elizabeth Little Barnes, Elizabeth Arrington, Michele Pizer, and Alicia Sedwick. I am very happy that I have recently reconnected with Leigh Duke Bruner.” Patricia McLean is in Atlanta and enjoyed a year of show houses in 2022. Kips Bay in Dallas, Texas, was in the fall, where she designed a bedroom titled “Traveler’s Retreat.” It can be viewed online at Veranda magazine. Tricia has moved into a new townhome and the daybed from the showhouse in the Soane Britain fabric is now in her bedroom--her favorite piece. The Home for the Holidays showhouse master bedroom with Atlanta Homes magazine followed. Her garden club held its Christmas party there, which was extra festive. Both designs can be seen on her Instagram page as well. Tricia has moved her “international headquarters” of 27 years into

her townhome and has lots of settling to do! She wishes everyone a wonderful year. Terry McLennan Whitney is in Charlotte, where she is busy with her catering as well as her interior design consulting businesses.

Her son, Josh, is also in Charlotte and son Hayes is in Austin, Texas. I’m very sad to bring you Katie Zevenhuizen Medlin’s news. Her husband, Danny, passed away in March after a four- month battle with cancer.

Her SMS girlfriends have been walking the journey with her, and she is so thankful for their love and support. Katie’s son, Grimes, was married in 2020 and her daughter, Cathryn Medlin Paradise, was married in 2021.

Many thoughts and prayers to Katie and hoping she will find peace in the days ahead. Danny and I are still in Asheville and our son, Ben, and his wife Maggie, are close by in Cashiers. Our younger son, Sam, and his wife, Leldon, have moved to Georgetown, South Carolina, so we love visiting them there as often as we can. Until next time, I hope you all stay healthy and find joy and humor every day! Cissy

1980

HIGH SCHOOL Kaky McCabe Bowden ’80HS ’82C Happy summer to the Class of 1980 High School! It’s been a big year, as most of us have turned the big 60 and beyond! How can it be that we’ve been out of high school for 43 years! Mary Stowe writes that she continues to live in Charlotte and spent her 60th by spending a month in Tuscany. She also took trips to Norway and Portugal, making up for lost time during the pandemic. What fun! Cathy Call Boykin enjoys seeing her three children, sons Laughton (Ellen) and Parke in Charlotte, daughter Callee in Raleigh, and three grandchildren in Charlotte. Cathy also traveled to Rome with husband Duke and had a fabulous time! I see Cathy quite often and was happy to have her join my family for my oldest son Bob’s wedding in May in Charleston. My youngest, Mac, got married in March in Charlotte. My daughter Nan continues to live in Richmond, Virginia, and loves it. I celebrated my 60th birthday while hiking in Maine last summer. I see some of you on social media and learn of weddings, births of grandchildren, and deaths of parents. Time marches on, but life is a gift and I remember fondly the time spent with you at SMC (now SMS!). I pray you are all well and hope that many of us may return in two years for our 45th reunion! Put it on the calendar! Take care, Kaky

1981

HIGH SCHOOL Madeleine Gilbert ’81HS Condolences go to Nancy Christian on the death of her father, Joe Christian. In happier news, congratulations to Margaret Norris who became the Pastor of Hope Moravian Church in Winston-Salem last July.

Congratulations to Harriet Ashby Bond’s son Robert for graduating from Law School at the University of South Carolina, Cum Laude. Roommates Loren Neuhoff Mumford, Zaida Clay Harris, and Jeanne Maple Olsen celebrated their 60th birthdays in Charleston, South Carolina. Zaida writes that she loves being grandmother to her two-year-old grandson Beau Baskin. She sells Real Estate on St. Simons Island, Georgia, and her oldest daughter, Katy, has joined her in the business. They have fun working together. Congratulations to Suiter Whitehead Coxe on the birth of her second grandson. They are now grandparents to three grandchildren, two grandsons, and one granddaughter. Anne Nelson Blake writes that she and husband David traveled to the Holy Land in March. She still works for Ultragenyx and plays tennis. Bettine Bikel Boyd writes that she is semiretired from the hospitality industry. Both her sons are grown, with one living in Charlotte and one living in Boston. Bettine and her boyfriend spend lots of time in Biddeford Pool, Maine, where they play lots of pickleball and bike. She keeps in touch with so many of her Saint Mary’s friends, which she is so grateful for! I got to catch up with Scotty Grine Frantz and her daughter, Sarah, at her great nephew Beal Frantz’s first birthday. Holly Connell writes that both her daughters are out of college.

Anna lives in Kirkland, Washington, where she is an Amazon account manager for Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein. Katherine lives in Dallas and is an executive recruiter. Holly enjoys visiting both girls. Holly still works for her family business as a Property Manager. Marilee Eagles Reed is enjoying life in Valle Crucis and Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. She and

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Left to right, front row: Hadley Blake Daniel ’83C, Melinda Andrews Huey ’83C. Second row: Sara Watson Jones ’83C, Missie Sue Vaughan ’83C, Bryant Tanner McCarthy ’83C, Elizabeth Matilda Phillips Eller ’83C. Third row: Betsy Coley Fralin ’83C, Patti Drake Sadler ’81HS ’83C, Mary Stella Coleman Huffman ’83C, Wynn Davenport Pickett ’81HS ’83C, Katherine Howdy Tate ’83C, Andrea Kemp Schemel ’83C

I and some other friends had a girls’ weekend in Pinehurst this past January. Libby Ward Smart went to Croatia with girlfriends this spring. Libby continues to paint and play tennis. You can find her artwork at Randolph Alexander in Charlotte, NC, at Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming in Pawleys Island, SC, and at the Lee Dellinger Fine Art in Statesville, North Carolina. Libby’s son Spencer has moved to Aspen, Colorado, where he works as an assistant at the Dancing Bear Lodge. In January, I had dinner with Llewellyn Sherrod ’82HS ’84C, Frances Fuller ’82HS ’84C, Mandy Bass Hudson ’82HS ’84C, Bambi Conger Edwards ’82HS ’84C, and Anne Cobb Rasmussen ‘82HS ’84C in Raleigh. It was fun telling stories from our Saint Mary’s days. Llewellyn and I also helped give her niece’s bridesmaid luncheon this spring. Llewellyn turned me on to Frose’ and Grapefruit Prosecco from Trader Joe’s. I still enjoy living in Statesville, North Carolina. I’m still a sales rep for Jim Thompson fabrics, calling on Interior Designers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennesse, and Alabama. Please reach out to me with your news. Madeleine

1981

COLLEGE Allison Gilbert Holmes ’81C Claudia Wooten is now a grandmother. Her granddaughter, Ellis Montalou Demchak, was born June 2, 2022. Suzy Dunaway Riley’s father died on August 4, 2022. He had turned 100

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on August 2, 2022. Beth Mann volunteered at Farm Aid in Raleigh. She was working in the artist catering tent. She was able to serve the artists their food during her time there. Claudia Wooten got married Friday, September 30, 2022, to Mike Harper in Wilmington. Jeannie Teasley Kyle traveled to St. John, Virgin Islands, with Mary Jeannette Mardre Moseley and their husbands. Mary Cates Gravley has started a new job working for the Town of Cary in the human resources department.

Ruth E Perry Holding traded houses with her daughter. Her daughter has three kids, ages 3, 2, and 1. Elizabeth Hardy Hogan traveled with the Hogan family to Park City, Utah, in the summer of 2022 and a reports a great time for all. Allyson Edwards Greene is a grandmother to a new baby boy. He was born September 17, 2022. His name is Anders Scott Lind. Ellen Rodman Hathaway became a grandmother on September 24, 2022. Her grandson’s name is Rowan Zachary Horan. He weighed eight pounds and 13 ounces and was 22 inches long at birth. Emily Winfield Bondy’s daughter, Courtney, got married October 1, 2022, to Tyler Ferguson in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

They were scrambling to navigate Hurricane Ian. Emily said they made it work and it was the most wonderful celebration. Emily had a mini Saint Mary’s reunion at the wedding. SMC girls in attendance were Catherine Winfield Pfeiffer, Margaret Taylor Kendrick, Ellen Rodman Hathaway and Nancy Brooks Newlon.

Torrey Moss Munford’s daughter, Blair Munford von Ahnen, was married to John von Ahnen September 17, 2022, at The Foundry at Tredegar in Richmond, Virginia. Torrey said that it was such a fun and happy day. There were some other SMC girls that came to the wedding: Mary McLean Russell, Nancy Gillespie Kimberly, Carol Huger Griffin, Karen Apostolou Gliarmis, and Gigi Johnson. Torrey let me know that the SMC girls still know how to shake a leg on the dance floor. Jenny Lewis Beall has a granddaughter, Cardwell Louise Beall, born December 8, 2022. She was six pounds and five ounces and 19 ½ inches at birth. Mary Hollingshed Smitherman and husband Sam have retired to New Bern and love life on the Neuse River. Mary wants people to stop by on the way to the beach for a visit anytime. Allyson Edwards Greene says that she is doing well in Georgia. They have been renovating a historic beach house in St. Simon’s Island for the last eight months. She says that it has been all-consuming, but it is close to being finished. Allyson’s best news is that she now has a baby grandson, Anders. He lives in Chicago, and she doesn’t get to see him as much as they would like, but they are making a point to see him at least every few weeks. She says he is a love bug. Ashley Richardson Allen’s father passed away peacefully on March 1, 2023.

He served as a trustee at Saint Mary’s. Grace Brown says that she is still selling real estate in Palm Beach, Florida, for Brown Harris Stevens on Worth Avenue. She has been doing this for

27 years. Grace says to stop by and say hello if you are in town. You can also reach her atgbrown@bhspalmbeach.com and 561-312-6822. She helps buyers, sellers, and renters. She is happy to help you or your friends.

Margaret McGlohon wrote that in the fall of 2022, she took a trip of a lifetime, going to Switzerland to visit her niece, and then they traveled to Salzburg and Vienna, Austria, and London. They took The Sound of Music tour, which was amazing! A favorite excursion was a train ride to Windsor and touring the castle and St. George’s Chapel. Margaret chaperoned the Western Tour during the summer of 2022. This tour is owned by Saint Mary’s alumna Mary Barnett Hale ’84HS ’86C. Margaret’s favorite stop was Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Margaret says it has been fun being able to gather with so many members of the ’81C class – be it regular dinners of the Raleigh crowd or trips with Charlotte and Greensboro friends. Up next for Margaret are several trips to the beach, a trip back up to the Northeast to visit New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont, and to the Christmas market in Germany later in the year. Much love to all members of the class of ’81C, especially those who have experienced loss or are battling health issues. Lee Trotter Dixon died April 28, 2023. Catherine Winfield Pfeiffer said that she and Richard are still in Washington, North Carolina.

She’s a school nurse and now looking forward to retirement soon, maybe in two years. They are planning another Radical Women Summer Tour with Nancy Brooks Newlon, Margaret Taylor Kendrick, and Emily Winfield Bondy. Catherine said they planned to meet in Atlanta in July. Catherine says that she is ready for our reunion, which will be in 2026. Emily Winfield Bondy wrote that her biggest news is that her oldest daughter, Courtney married Tyler Bradley Ferguson October 1, 2022. They are both so happy and living and working in Raleigh. Her other daughter, Malone, was graduating from Meredith College this summer. Emily is moving on with family life and enjoying every minute of it. She is getting ready to build a house in Little Washington. They are not leaving Rocky Mount but wanting vacation time on the river. Allison

good health and being able to see each other often. Beth Morris Gobble ’82HS ’84C, has enjoyed being a “great aunt” (which sounds a LOT older than grandmother)! Lizzy, AKA the little redheaded girl, is all grown up now with a little redheaded girl of her own. Our family biz survived through COVID and has continued chugging along. I split my time between work and taking my 90-year-old dad wherever he wants to go. We haven’t traveled much, as our geriatric pups do not like to be boarded, but we love being in our home anyway. Joy and peace to you all! Beth

1983

HIGH SCHOOL Mary Beth Hughes ’83HS Lynn Jones Gasch writes that son Alex graduated from high school and will attend Virginia Tech.

1982

COLLEGE Jackie Mitchell writes, “Loving living in the historic, original Washington, North Carolina. I am working in the family business, established in 1967.”

She has two grown sons (23 and 27).

1982

HIGH SCHOOL and

1984

COLLEGE Beth Morris Gobble ’82HS ’84C Retirement, grandbabies, and AARP – Oh, my! When did all this happen?

Meredith Casey Bourne ’82 HS reports that she is enjoying retirement; she recently returned from 15 days in Italy, where she partook in an oil painting excursion. What a fabulous place to study art! Olivia Hardin Pettifer ’82HS tells us her son, Alexander, graduated from St. David’s High School. He will attend SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) to study film/television and writing. Olivia has been busy with volunteer work through the Colonial Dames of America. She is the garden chairman of the Joel Lane Museum House. She and her family love to travel, and Savannah is one of their favorite destinations (mine too). Landon McKinney Smith ’82HS ’84C says her son, William, is living in Richmond, Virginia, and her daughter, Lucy, lives in Washington, D.C. Landon and her husband enjoy traveling on weekends and look forward to retiring in a few years. Catherine Davidson Cooke ’82HS ’84C sends this update: all four kids are well. Katie has been married since 2019 and is teaching deaf and hard of hearing students in Brunswick County. MaryLou received her master’s this May and is in Washington, D.C., working for Senator Ted Budd. John graduated from the Citadel in 2022 and is in the Army National Guard, headed to training at Ft. Benning for six months, and AnnaBelle is serving as a missionary with YWAM in Kona, Hawaii. Catherine works for a company that manages HOAs and continues with resort cleaning. Her husband, Marty, continues to serve as county commissioner in Brunswick County and teaches online for Liberty University. Life is good for her family, and she is grateful for

Left to right, front row: Mary Beth Hughes ’83HS, Lisa Clayton Benton ’83HS ’85C, Polly Russler Danyla ’83HS, Elizabeth Rouse Borden ’83HS. Second row: Caroline Johnson Douglas ’83HS, Adelia Taylor Schiffman ’83HS, Kathy Keel ’83HS ’85C, Diane Ferguson Hanlon ’83HS, Manda Belli Loftus ’83HS

1984

HIGH SCHOOL Ellen Zollicoffer Jackson ’84HS Hello ladies of the Saint Mary’s High School Class of 1984! I hope everyone is well and ready to celebrate our 40th HS reunion next spring. Susan Avent Irvine is back home after traveling and homeschooling with her eighthgrade son in Europe and Morocco last fall. She’s started up her art and vintage business again after a long break. She sees Mandy Johnson Spears and Robin Ballard Earp. Rebecca Rogers Chilton, Annette Stephens, JeanLouise Beard, Maggi Jones Jackson, and Ann Campbell Waller, former day students, just had their monthly call. Rebecca Rogers Chilton writes that she’s a partner with Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, where she focuses on renewable energy development and finance. Her husband, Mark, is the Orange County Register of Deeds, and they live in Carrboro with daughter Ella, a rising high school senior. Her stepsons, Samuel and Alex, both graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill. Rebecca also reports: Maggi Jones Jackson is a nonprofit development consultant and lives in WinstonSalem with husband Chris, a professor at Wake Forest, and son Alexander, who is a rising senior in high school. Their daughter, Acy, graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill and lives in Boulder, Colorado. Maggi’s dad, Burns, and mom, Marcia Jones (former SMS dean of students), live in Durham. Ann Campbell Waller is a nurse with UNC Health and still a die-hard Ultimate player (she recently took a disc to the tooth - that’s commitment). She lives in Chapel Hill with husband Justin, a landscaper. Their son, Silas, lives in N.Y.C., and daughter Ila is in college at the Art Institute of Chicago. JeanLouise Beard came out of retirement to help David Price wrap up his long

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and illustrious career in Congress last year and is forever getting involved in one community or family commitment or another. She and husband Scott, a political strategist, live in Arlington, Virginia, with son Jack, who will attend James Madison University in the fall. Annette Stephens lives in Frederick, Maryland, where her company manages records, specimens, and other scientific data used in cancer research by the National Institutes of Health and others. Husband Randy is a cybersecurity consultant and chef extraordinaire which is why, when we gather as a group, it’s almost always in their kitchen! Their son, Marshall, just finished his freshman year at the College of Charleston. Mary Barnett Hale writes, “I am excited and proud that my middle child, Tom (23), graduated from Appalachian State on May 13, 2023. Two down and one to go! My oldest, James (25), lives and works in Nashville, Tennessee. Ruth (20), my youngest child, is finishing her sophomore year at Clemson. Football games in Death Valley sure are fun! Scott and I continue to enjoy owning the Grand Western Tour. Planning (and taking part in) a life-changing, 33-day trip across the United States for 15-year-olds is challenging but so very meaningful and rewarding.” Robin Ballard Earp writes, “I have enjoyed get-togethers with various classmates when they are in town, Susan Avent Irvine and Chrisie Currence Pierce. I had a good time when Mary Hannah Wyman Jones was in town with Jane McNair Marr and Mandy Johnson Spears. I hang out with Mandy a good bit, as we are neighbors. Building a country house out at the Earp family farm is keeping me very busy. Enjoying empty nesting.”

Mandy Johnson Spears lives in Wilmington and enjoys retirement after working in banking for 31 years. She and her husband, Lin, have two daughters who graduated from N.C. State and are currently working in Raleigh and Charlotte. Her youngest daughter is a senior at N.C. State and will graduate in May 2024. “Where did the time go?” She hoped to see some SMS girls over the summer. Carter Manning Wade relocated to the Raleigh area for work in December 2018 from Bristol, Tennessee. Her daughter, Allston, attended Meredith College fall 2018 to spring 2020, then relocated back to Tennessee in the spring of 2020 due to the pandemic.

Allston is now a junior at East Tennessee State University, in Johnson City, and works at Marshalls. Carter’s son, Will, is married to Alexis and they live in the Kingsport, Tennessee, area. Carter is grandmother to a number of fur babies she adores. Carter enjoys living and working in the Raleigh area and would love to catch up with her Saint Mary’s peeps! Marty Worthy Lewis reports that they finally went on their “2020” vacation to celebrate two graduates, one from high school and the other from UNC-CH. She also got to add on a celebration of their youngest’s 2023 graduation from Broughton High School. She ran into an SMS graduate in Florence, Martha Luck Johnston ’20, who has been studying abroad for the semester, as has her son, Hoyt. Sue Bradley writes, “After living in Raleigh most of my life, I moved to Beaufort, and married my junior high school sweetheart, Koy Southerland.” She loves her life on the coast. Muzzy Crute Crumpler is a licensed professional counselor working in private practice. She has been married to husband Burks for 20 years, and they have twin boys who are 16, Webb and Ward. She lives in Raleigh and loves traveling. Mary Hannah Wyman Jones is happy to report that she’s living in Raleigh with her daughter, Hannah Jones ’19. Her son, Miles, attends N.C. State and will graduate in December. She enjoys spending lots of time at Atlantic Beach with family and friends. Betsy Diedrick McLean writes, “After 29 years in the public school system, I am retiring! I don’t know my next step, but I’m working on that this summer.” Kimbrough Mobley Gibson says, “I am still working at KPMG in human resources. My oldest son graduated from the University of Georgia last year and is here in Atlanta working. My middle son is a junior at UGA, and my youngest son is about to graduate high school. I am going to be a very sad empty nester soon! I see the Saint Mary’s girls who live in Atlanta fairly often, and we all try to attend the Saint Mary’s get-togethers when they are here.” Vaiden Krammer Stubbs lives on Hilton Head Island. Her youngest daughter will be going to Appalachian State, so she’ll be in North Carolina more often. She sees Anne Bikle Bissette ’86C and Mary Hannah Wyman Jones every summer at Atlantic Beach. She also sees Susan Avent Irvine from time to time in Charleston, South Carolina. Susan says she’s been on a Widespread Panic kick lately and planned to see Taylor Swift at Mile High Stadium in July.

Amy Perterkin is married to Tom Hall, and they celebrated three years in June. They’ve started Between the Antlers restaurant in Georgetown, South Carolina. They live in Fort Motte, South Carolina, but split their time in Georgetown. Both of her children graduated from the University of

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South Carolina. Son Ford lives in Jackson, Wyoming, and her daughter is in Columbia, South Carolina. Cynthia Smith Brandt lives in Southwest Florida and has been married to Stuart Brandt for 28 years. Together they have six children. She is an author, minister, and is currently working on her Doctor of Ministry in pastoral counseling. As for me, my youngest daughter, Janie Jackson ’19, just graduated from the University of Georgia in May, moved home, and is currently pursuing her master’s in social work at UNC-Chapel Hill. My other daughter, Mary Rinne, lives in Raleigh and is working for Align Technology in the RTP as an inside sales representative.

I am still making lots of cheese straws as well as volunteering at both my church and Wake Relief, a local food pantry. I saw Mary Barnett Hale not too long ago and it was fun catching up. I still run into Mary Hannah Wyman Jones and Marty Worthy Lewis around town. Mark your calendars, next year is our 40th High School reunion. I can’t wait to catch up with everyone in person then! Ellen

1985

HIGH SCHOOL Rebecca Pace ’85HS Hello classmates! Hope your summer is going well. Beth van Dorp Collier ’86HS ’88C has been holding down the fort in Little Washington (N.C.!) and now has pulled out the welcome party train to the Elizabeths: Elizabeth Grine Blount (and Bill) and Elizabeth Leach Johnson ’88C (and Parker).

Seems like the percentage of Saint Mary’s grads must be pretty high there!

I love seeing Beth and Chris Collier at Furniture Market twice a year in High Point. I need to visit festive Washington! I’m sure there are lots of graduations to celebrate and here are a few: Meriwether Hill Fentress’s son John (Broughton High School, Raleigh), Sally Maddison Wooten’s twins, Maddison and George (UNC-Chapel Hill), Marty Hattaway Lewis’ son, Rom (Wofford),Tiffany Compton Wigbels’ daughter Ava (Holy Spirit Prep, Atlanta), and Katie Sullivan Landi’s Fin will graduate in December (USC). I’m sure there are more, so congrats to all! Sally Maddison Wooten is now working in real estate with Berkshire Hathaway York Simpson & Underwood in Raleigh and enjoying it. She has had fun connecting with Elizabeth Byrd, who has been a realtor in Asheville for years. Elizabeth’s daughter, Amelia, graduated from Sewanee last year and has spent the last year teaching high school biology in Ft. Myers. She’s now applying to P.A. school, so best of luck in that endeavor to a fellow SMS grad!

Tiffany Compton Wigbel’s daughter, Ava, is heading to East Carolina and Tiffany has a rising high school junior. Tiffany is an interior designer. I am an interior designer too, so I hope we can see each other at market!

It’s always interesting to me how many people one can run into there.

Lynn Cowell Ives said she’s probably Saint Mary’s most boring alumna but I can give her a run for her money on that honor. She added that all is well in the Ives family, and she loves getting to see her SMS pals every chance she gets! Robin Bailey lives in Pine Knoll Shores and is a resource development director for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Coastal Plain with the Carteret County Clubs. Robin was looking forward to seeing Saint Mary’s girls at the alumnae party at the Coral Bay Club. Kelley Edmondson Beiboer has been living in N.Y.C. the past seven years. She said they probably will be there another two years before heading back to Europe. Her children are studying in Europe while she’s busy working on a renovation in Italy. I think we should all gather at her Italian palazzo for our next reunion! Who’s with me? I see Saint Mary’s alumnae in Raleigh (and at Alumnae Council meetings) but I also like to keep up with my SMS roomie Lindy Turner Wyatt in Richmond, Virginia, and we are hoping to meet up sometime this summer. Maybe if I put it in writing here, it will happen! Looking forward to seeing y’all in two years at the reunion (or in Italy at Kelley’s). Ciao!

1986

HIGH SCHOOL Amy Booth lives in Northern Virginia, about 45 miles west of Washington, D.C., and works with a federal contractor. “I turned 55 years young last December and working on a ‘retirement’ career in my spare time, as I venture into writing my first book. My three grown children (Sara, Michael, and Nicholas) still live in the area. Sara is married and just turned 30 (still waiting on the grandkids). I am currently recovering from major ankle

surgery, working on an outline for my venture into book writing. My husband and I are enjoying our two dogs and two cats. I would love to reconnect with classmates.”

1986

COLLEGE Margaret Dossenbach Normann writes, “After 32 years teaching of teaching elementary students, mostly fourth grade, I have retired! I loved every minute in my classroom. I moved to Fearrington Village in Pittsboro, North Carolina, about a year ago and love it. Life is good!” Ann Bikle Bissette writes that she and husband Zack are happily living in Wilson. Bev Tuller says, “I continue to be an avid Gamecock fan. Our baseball team did very well this season. My ‘children’ are two nieces and a nephew. My nephew is a rising senior at Davidson. My nieces are both rising sophomores, one at Wake Forest and one in high school. My, how the years fly by! Can’t wait for our next reunion!”

1987

COLLEGE Chrissy Bolin Rand ’87C Hello everyone! Last year I offered to pass the secretarial baton on to someone else, but had no takers. And I’m great with that. I only offered because I was a little worried I’d forget my duties at some point and let you guys down. So, let’s get on with it. June Ivey Manning wrote that she is still with Granville Vance Public Health as finance officer/deputy director.

She writes, “Kenny and I celebrated 32 years of marriage in 2022. Our daughter, Daisy, eloped in 2022. She and husband Dustin got married on a Colorado mountainside! I’m thrilled to have a son-in-law. Our son, Ethan, graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill and lives in Durham.” Katherine Respess Moore had big news! On May 6, 2023, “I got married to an amazing man after 14 years. I couldn’t be happier and love living back in my hometown on the Pamlico River. Still enjoying my work with Travis and Co., sharing beautiful fabrics with all my beautiful interior designer clients in North Carolina and South Carolina.” Katie Sullivan Landi says that she’s well, and loves seeing SMS friends around town. Work-wise, she’s executive director of Diaper Train, a nonprofit located close to Saint Mary’s. Katie explained, “We provide access to diapers, equipping families with the necessary tools to improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing. I have the pleasure of working beside Marty Hattaway Lewis ’85HS, our program coordinator, and Sally Maddison Wooten ’85 HS is on our board. Tony and I enjoy visiting our kids in Fort Collins, Colorado; N.Y.C.; and Columbia, South Carolina. I often see Susan Stephenson ’85HS ’87C when she visits Raleigh, and recently saw Mittie Barnwell Winston ’87C and her sister, Neely Barnwell Dykshorn ’86HS ’88C, at a family dinner.

Both were fabulous. Got to spend some time at the home of Elizabeth Anderson Purrington ’85HS with some of the day student high school girls.” Courtney Pitts Severe says she and her husband, Blair, are still in Bethesda, Maryland. Two of their kids live in Washington, D.C., and their third child goes to school in Maine. Courtney says, “I co-founded an art collective, localCOLORdmv.com. We show the work of artists residing in Maryland, D.C., and Virginia. I also teach art to kids and I now have a few adult students who study watercolor with me. At this moment life is good and I’m grateful. Please give us a shout if you are in the D.C. area.”

Courtney’s parents live in Ponte Vedra Beach. She and I (Chrissy) ran into one another on the beach one Thanksgiving Day many moons ago! Will and I (Chrissy Bolin Rand) celebrate 35 years of marriage this year. We both had a ball at Katherine Respess Moore’s smashing wedding on the Pamlico River in Washington, North Carolina, in May. It was loads of fun catching up with Saint Mary’s classmates Shannon Taylor Gwynn and her husband, John, Marcy Everett Voelkel, Susan Gregory, and I even had a quick chat with the lovely Christi Davis Welfley. Will and I are well, our four kids are doing awesome, and so are our three grandkids! Our grandchildren live in Texas, so we pack up and visit whenever we can. Chrissy

1988

HIGH SCHOOL Melissa Morrisette Tillman writes, “I missed you all at our 35th reunion

in April. Unfortunately, I was the only one from our class, though it was a treat to visit with Dr. Esthimer, whose band was the entertainment on Friday evening. Rollie and I are so proud of our children: Rollie IV graduated from the Cameron School of Business in May 2023 and Eliza Dunn Tillman ’23 from Saint Mary’s nine days later. Her four years at SMS were wonderful, and she is very well prepared for her next adventure at Sewanee. As continuing empty- nesters, Rollie and I spend as much time at Atlantic Beach as we can. I hope you’ll all consider making the trip for our 40th.” Julia Godwin Vaughan shares exciting news that she has been awarded a prestigious Fulbright scholarship and was training teachers in Morocco this summer.

1989

HIGH SCHOOL Heath Dalton Parker ’89HS ’91C Gina Crow Jablokov writes that she lives in Raleigh and works as a landscape architect. Her daughter, Eugenia, is attending college at UPenn. Geni Wade Slaughter is celebrating her 24th year as a high school technology teacher. Geni and her husband are still living in Oxford, North Carolina, and celebrated their 29th anniversary this year. Both sons are out of school. One is a paramedic and the other a programmer at SAS. She looks forward to seeing y’all next year at the reunion. Ruth DobsonTorres shared that 2022 was a sad year. She lost her father (Feb. 23, 2022), mother-in-law (July 26, 2022) and her sweet mother (Oct 24, 2022).

Finding strength in faith, Ruth is hoping 2023 will continue to be a better year. She has planned travel, including trips to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain, and France (including to see the tennis at Roland Garros). Ruth still enjoys playing USTA tennis and lives in Cary. Heath Dalton Parker lives in Raleigh with her family and works at Cisco Systems. Daughter Kate has started high school and son Owen will be starting 8th grade this year. Heath

1990

HIGH SCHOOL Stephanie Bishop Williams ’90HS Greetings, High School Class of 1990! I hope you all are well and are living your best lives! I heard from Cammie Bason Smith that she and Clay are still in Dallas and have lived there for almost 27 years. Their youngest daughter, Kate, will be a sophomore in high school next year; Margaret graduated from Elon in 2022 and lives in Italy; Sarah is a rising senior at Alabama, and Caroline is a rising sophomore at Southern Methodist University. She loves getting back to North Carolina when she can and says it has been way too long since she’s seen her SMS friends! I also heard from Lara Jones Tibbals that she has recently opened her own mediation and arbitration business, Tibbals Mediation, in Tampa, Florida. She also recently celebrated her 24th wedding anniversary. Her three children are 17, 15, and 12. As for me, we are still in Richmond, Virginia. Henry is nine and just finished third grade. He was looking forward to Camp Seagull again this year. I keep in close touch with Melanie Lewis Seamster and Meredith Green Steinbraker and continue to keep posted on many of your lives through social media. I also love keeping up with so many of my former students from my time as faculty at Saint Mary’s. Take care, my friends, and please drop me a line sometime. I would love to hear from you. Stephanie

1990

COLLEGE Barbara Bryant Baynes ’88HS ’90C Debbie DeBruhl Burns and her husband are enjoying their first year as empty nesters! Their daughter is a rising senior at N.C. State and her roommate happens to be an SMS alum, Martha Luck Johnston ’20, and the daughter of Joan Comer Johnston ’87C. Debbie’s son is a rising sophomore at Wake Forest. Debbie sells real estate in Winston-Salem and enjoys frequent trips to Raleigh. Holly Byrum Camak has very exciting news to share! She and Neal will soon be grandparents! Another daughter is making wedding plans, and Holly’s youngest daughter, Addie, is a rising senior at Queens University where she plays lacrosse. Flossie Dossenbach

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Left to right, front row: Allison Wilkes Thomas ’93HS ’95C, Cameron Dixon Currie ’93HS, Jennifer Boleman Ford ’93HS, Betsy Ward ’93HS, Elizabeth Rainey Hicks ’93HS ’94C, Lucy White Ackerly. Second row: Susan Young Maddux ’93HS ’95C, Corbin Williams Neuner ’93HS, Laurie Deatherage ’93HS ’95C, Cassie Warrington ’93HS, Claudia Bishop Stubbs ’93HS, Pany Seyed Allen '93HS, space. Third row: Elizabeth Blackwood ’93HS, Heather Gibson Harmon ’93HS ’95C , space, Catherine Wade ’93HS, Beth Farr Williams ’93HS ’94C, Robin Conklin ’93HS, Sarah Montgomery McSwain ’93HS

Parks chaired a very successful seventh annual coat drive, where she collected and delivered 145 coats to students in Moore County Public Schools. Flossie and her husband, Tracy, love golf and enjoy spending time with their four granddaughters. In April, Flossie and several Saint Mary’s classmates (Katherine Tierney Canady, Beth Watson Leake, Pat Gilliam Ivey, Natalie Gaskins Sherman, Liz Bull Sri and Heather Moore Thompson) reunited in Raleigh for the Dillon Fence concert. Angie Spivey and her husband, Rick Myers, split their time between Florida and Colorado. Angie is opening a new social work practice that will serve clients with mental health and substance abuse issues. Rick has recently been chosen to show his artwork in both the Coral Springs and Vero Beach museums of art.

Both enjoy volunteering at their local animal shelter. Heather Moore Thompson’s daughter, May Thompson ’23, graduated from SMS in May and will attend Appalachian State University in the fall. Heather’s older daughter, Grace Battle Thompson ’18 graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill and is heading to the Big Apple, where she will work for two podcasters. Heather enjoys reading in her spare time and passed along a book recommendation, Lessons in Chemistry. All is well with my crew! We celebrated Drew’s graduation from N.C. State in May and are thrilled that his new job will keep him in Raleigh.

Ben is working in Charlotte, and Lilly is a rising sophomore at N.C. State. Our “house divided” continues to make football season fun, as we cheer on the Tar Heels and the Wolfpack. JB and I celebrated our sixth wedding anniversary

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with a wonderful trip to the Outer Banks. Please keep the news coming! xoxo Barbara

1991

HIGH SCHOOL Martha Benbow writes that her son enters N.C. State this fall, so she hopes to be back in Raleigh more often. She is playing 4.0 tennis and following PackWrestle.

1992

COLLEGE Weldon Jackson Byrtus has concluded her 26th year at Saint Mary’s! Daughter Liza is continuing with travel soccer through NCFC.

1993

HIGH SCHOOL Claudia Bishop Stubbs ’93HS It was so nice to see so many of you during our 30th reunion weekend. Many thanks to Cassie Warrington for helping to plan some of the weekend festivities. It is hard to believe how fast five years seems to go these days! I am still in Richmond, Virginia, and working from home as an SLP. I work four days a week for a local school system. I have also started working part time for a local startup here in RVA called Sherah. It is a personal assistant company for busy families that need help getting it all done.

Jim and I are continuing to help with his family’s vineyard in Lexington (Curran Alexander). They are in the process of building a bigger facility

to host weddings and special events. If you are ever in the area on a weekend, you should drop in for a glass of wine and say hi! James finished ninth grade, John Bayley finished sixth grade, and Sarah Claxton has finished kindergarten.

They are all at different schools, which can be a challenge some days and keeps me busy!

Everyone is looking forward to camp and the beach this summer. Jennifer Boleman Ford writes, “I’m still managing communications and associate readiness with Bank of America, and I was recently promoted to senior vice president. Our daughter, Carson Ford ’22, completed her freshman year at N.C. State as an architecture major. Our sons, Robert in 10th grade and Hank in sixth, keep us busy with school and travel baseball, even going to Cooperstown, New York, this summer for baseball. Catherine Wade has joined the SMS staff this past year as a weekend school nurse.

We were all deeply saddened to learn of our classmate, Helen Nobles, passing on May 1.

Helen had just attended the reunion lunch at SMS two days before she died. I will always remember her dry and quick-witted sense of humor. She will be missed by all of us. Thanks to donations from you, our class has donated a brick in Helen’s honor, along with a monetary gift in remembrance of her. Take care of yourselves, sweet friends, for tomorrow is not promised. I hope to see many of you soon. I always cherish my time with my SMS friends.

XOXO, Claudia Bishop Stubbs

Tra Jennette Perry ’62C, and Lilly. We were at MoMA and I hear “Dow! Dow Perry!” It was none other than Lil’ Darlin’ herself, Ashley Shelton, coming up the stairs. She was in New York with her husband and son. It was wonderful to see her and have a quick catch up! Please note that all this class news was obtained at the reunion by me physically putting a pen and paper in front of each lady there! Y’all can do better about writing in – we want to hear from you! Until next year…xoxo, Dow

Left to right: Robin Conklin ’93HS, Pany Seyed Allen '93HS, Sarah Montgomery McSwain ’93HS, Helen Nobles ’93HS ’95C, Elizabeth Rainey Hicks ’93HS ’94C, Beth Farr Williams ’93HS ’94C

1993

COLLEGE Dow Perry Crowder ’91HS ’93C Mimi Pinner lives in the Five Points area of Raleigh with daughter Weatherly (11). She works at the Medicine Foundation in communications. Ashley Elizabeth Jones is an SVP financial advisor at Pinnacle Financial Partners in Raleigh. She had on busy travel year in 2022, going to Paris and the Bahamas. A highlight was getting to meet legendary tennis pro, Chris Evert, this spring in Key Biscayne. Ashley still enjoys tennis and has fallen in love with her yoga practice. She practices yoga six days a week, and it brings her great joy and peace! Chrissy Griffin Harrison lives in Huntersville and sells real estate in the Charlotte/Lake Norman area. She married Reggie Harrison in 2020. Her three children are doing great! Mary Logan (22) lives in Oxford, Mississippi, and takes on-line classes at ECU. Jack (20) is a sophomore at MIT in Boston. Holt (17) is a sophomore in high school. He is a brave and relentless soldier against a rare autoimmune disease. Ann Akers Douglas lives in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she owns For the Love Of… boutique. She also sells real estate and substitute teaches. Excitedly, she’s been dating the same man for a 1½ years! As for her three boys, two are in college and one is still in high school. Julie Thomas Growney’s life is busy! She manages Ladyfingers Market & Eatery in Raleigh. She loves seeing all ages of Saint Mary’s alumnae visiting the Glenwood Avenue location. Older daughter Mary Braxton is studying nursing at ECU. Younger daughter Sarah, is a junior in high school. Julie and John are looking forward to traveling when they are empty nesters!

Rebecca Folline Rhodes is in Columbia, South Carolina, with her husband of 22 years, Jim. They have three children. Mary Dees has just finished her freshman year at the University of Georgia. James is a rising high school junior and enjoys golf. Rebecca is a rising 7th grader and is big into dancing. Liz Edwards Wright is proud mother to Amira Grace (15). She lives in Apex and enjoys going back to Wrightsville Beach for visits. Liz is grateful to have shared daily life with Kat Gregory Fritter over the years.

Also, to have reconnected with Tiffany McGough Short. She says it’s as if not a moment has passed! Tiffany McGough Short reports that her three children are doing well. Sons Max and Jack are adults and enjoying their lives. Daughter Ella is 11 and looking forward to middle school next year.

Tiffany is an associate director at FIS Global. Katherine Gregory Fritter and family were moving to a farm in Rembert, South Carolina, this summer.

Her daughter, Abby Fritter ’23, just graduated from Saint Mary’s and is headed to Clemson this fall. Ann Lee Johnson stayed with me for our 30th reunion. We laughed and laughed (and bickered) just like it was 30 years ago, and just had the very best time. Her sons are doing great! Gill (21) is at College of Charleston and Symth (19) is at University of South Carolina. As for me, Dow Perry Crowder, Jason and I are still in Raleigh and just celebrated 15 years! Our 10-year-old, Lilly, may be the end of us.

There is a lot of eye rolling, huffing, and puffing, talking under her breath, and other pre-teen shenanigans. I’m really at my wits end, and know that this is the very beginning. I pray that God grants me the strength for her to survive her teenage years. I loved seeing so many of you at the 30th reunion! We had a great time and missed those who were not there!

Another fun run-in I had: I was in N.Y.C. in December with my mother,

Left to right, front row: Mimi Pinner ’93C, Dow Perry Crowder ’91HS ’93C, Ann Lee Johnson ’93C, Ann Akers Douglas ’93C. Second row: Julie Thomas Growney ’93C, Chrissy Griffin Hairston ’91HS ’93C, Rebecca Folline Rhodes ’93C, Tiffany McGough Short ’93C, Liz Edwards Wright ’93C, Kat Gregory Fritter ’91HS ’93C

1994

COLLEGE Andrea Staunch Green ’94C Alison Britt moved to Morehead City two years ago and works alongside her father at Britt Development Company, in residential development.

Margery Knott Clifton writes, “After almost 25 years of working in law firms, I decided to stay home with my twin boys. They are eight years old and finished up the second grade at St. Timothy’s in Raleigh. I am having so much fun volunteering at school and church. I get together with Robin White Mangum and Ann Green Floyd as much as possible and am looking forward to celebrating the big 5-0 with SMC friends next year.” Sally Howell Donaldson, her husband, Sean, and Mary Smith (5) continue to enjoy living in Lakeway, Texas, about 30 miles from Austin.

What was supposed to be an 18-month move has turned into 2.5 years of happiness. Mary Smith will attend Saint Gabriel’s Catholic School this fall for kindergarten. They love having visitors, and they saw Robin White Mangum in Coronado, California, last summer. They were excited to spend time with friends in North Carolina this summer, take a vacation to San Diego, and attend a family reunion in South Carolina. Meredith Toomes Gibbs writes, “Life is different with aging parents, am I right? Hugs to all who share the challenge of a parent with dementia. My kids are 15 and rowing on their high school crew team, so we have had a fun year going to races from Florida to Tennessee. I’m no longer teaching, but I’m enjoying working with clients in social skills groups, and also working with my husband, who is a general contractor. Working with him has been a lot of fun, and I’m considering just doing that. We will see!” Emily Jackson Hines lives in Charlotte with her husband and two children (8 and 7). She keeps busy as vice regent of her Daughters of the American Revolution chapter. Joanna Weatherington Huskey’s husband, Matt, surprised her with a trip to Florida to swim with dolphins. She said it’s been a lifelong dream and it was more wonderful than she imagined. Her son, Aaron (placed for adoption at birth), and his two children, Dawson (6) and Hadley (4), are doing great. They live very close by and see each other regularly.

Dawson just finished kindergarten and Hadley is in daycare. She says it’s

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such a joy watching them grow. Matt is enjoying playing in a band with his brother (the Chad Huskey Band). They play on weekends around Winston-Salem (Lexington, Kernersville, etc.), mostly classic rock like Led Zeppelin and Lynyrd Skynyrd, some music from the 90s like Dave Matthews Band, Alice In Chains, etc. If you’re in the area, go see them! They have a Facebook and Instagram page. Robin White Mangum is the director of learning at Marbles Kids Museum.

She lives in Raleigh with her husband, Ned, and son Hugh (12). Gus (15) goes to Woodberry Forrest and Bear (19) attends UNC-Chapel Hill.

Robin spends time with her Saint Mary’s besties whenever possible. Kendy Allen Smith says hello from the Pacific Northwest. She still loves being a nanny during the week to a family with two children. Kendy also enjoys spending her time grooming at a horse training facility on the weekends. Her son, Henry, is a rising junior in high school. He was in French Polynesia for a month this summer as part of Lakeside School’s global service-learning program. Her husband, Bryan, was in Thailand leading his own monthlong program for Lakeside. She’s looking forward to seeing her Saint Mary’s friends at the next reunion. I, Andrea Staunch, am still in Charlotte with my kiddos, Caroline (16) and Alex (13). Having a driver is proving quite convenient and, thankfully, she drives like a grandma. We spent spring break in the Peruvian Amazon.

My mother joined us, and it was fantastic. The wildlife sightings were the highlight, especially holding an adorable, cuddly sloth. Recently, I was awarded the Tina Patton Leadership Volunteer award from the John Crosland School where my son attends. Last September I joined my womb-mate, Austin Staunch, in the Nevada desert for Burning Man, and arrived just in time to see her receive her 15-year employee recognition. Our birthday is in July, moving us into a new decade, and I’m hoping my 50s will prove better than my 40s! Andrea

1995

COLLEGE Tate Tattersall Garrison ’95C Dear Class of ’95C, I so look forward to receiving your updates and hearing where you all are in your lives. Christy Anderson Harris and her girls are all doing great. Her oldest daughter, Reynolds, recently made the choice to be baptized. Reynolds is very active in their church and the gym. So much so, she hopes to become a personal trainer, and after achieving her goal, to attend Clemson. Her youngest daughter, Milly, is an excellent tennis player and would love to play in college at Clemson or Florida State. Christy has had great success in the first two years of her real estate career. She has been transitioning from a corporate real estate company, Century 21, to a local brokerage, Resourceful Realty. In addition to her new real estate career, she and a friend are embarking on a nonprofit to bless juvenile homeless in Myrtle Beach through the arts. Her parents are still here, although her mother has dementia, which has been tough. While there have been challenges over the past four years, she counts

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her blessings, and her faith in the Lord only continues to grow stronger. Her treasure is within the success of her girls and watching them as they joyfully bloom. Amy Honeycutt Hall writes, “I am still living in Raleigh and staying busy with my two teens, husband George, and our new golden retriever, Lucy. This year is off to a great start. Jonathan is a rising senior at Broughton High School. We are soaking in watching him play sports one last year before he heads off to college. Caroline (19) wrapped up her freshman year at Wofford College. She was looking forward to being a deb this summer.

Both kids are working as counselors at Camp Seafarer and Sea Gull this summer. George and I and I have moved down to Morehead for the summer and are enjoying beach life.”

Mary Kelly Teague also enjoys the coast. “I am staying busy at the beach in my advocacy role as a Guardian ad Litem. I love being able to help a child’s best interests and wishes be conveyed to the court, as we all work hand in hand toward a permanent housing environment for them. These children are exceptional, and I learn something new from the one I advocate for in every conversation we have. It’s such a rewarding opportunity for me. I am enjoying summer by my pool and on the beach! Love to all Saints!” Charlotte Kosanin Nelson writes that she and her family are still in Dallas, and they were looking forward to spending some time on the North Carolina coast this summer. Her boys are thriving and truly living their best lives in Texas. Charles just turned 16 and is starting his college search, as well as enjoying every second on the golf course. This summer, he is traveling quite a bit to play in various golf tournaments including the Juniors Masters in Dothan, Alabama. We wish him lots of luck! Her younger son, Oliver, just turned 13 in the spring and loves being a teenager in the Park Cities. Oliver runs track, plays tons of basketball, and is preparing for fall football and all the big Texan Friday night lights! Oliver was excited to go to Colorado this summer and attend Camp Ozark for the first time. Charlotte’s husband, Ryan, is working at SRS Distribution, as their CFO, and seems to enjoy working within a company, instead of being in banking. He loves the fact that his blazers and loafers have been exchanged for khakis and golf shirts. Charlotte recently began subbing at the Highland Park Schools and really enjoys being with the kids. She volunteers quite a bit around town, at her boys’ schools, and has also picked up pickleball. She enjoys helping friends with small design projects and is so fortunate Dallas has many of the showrooms she loves. She continues to stay connected with some Saint Mary’s pals and always loves running into the ones she doesn’t speak to often. She is right in saying, “It’s a special connection.” It sure is. Helen Wallace Banzet is enjoying being back on Saint Mary’s campus on a more regular basis for Alumni Leadership Council meetings. This May, Helen, Brian, and their daughter, Kate, enjoyed the 7th grade “sneak peek” at SMS. They wrapped up their wonderful day with a visit to the student store for Saint Mary’s swag and a must-have Saint Mary’s SAINTS sweatshirt. Helen continues to run her preloved

children’s clothing business, Yolk Kids. Check out and follow along on Helen’s Instagram account, Yolk Kid @yolk.kids. Her daughter, Kate, is always at the heart of everything Helen does, and Kate is the inspiration behind starting this little account. She loves connecting with moms and shipping a thoughtfully curated mix of gently loved children’s clothing, accessories, and goods all over the country.

“It’s so great to see fantastic items being loved and thoroughly enjoyed a second time around for new adventures.” Speaking of future Saints, both Ashley Dawson Forbes and I will become Saint Mary’s School parents in the fall! Talk about things coming full circle and our hearts being so full! We are so excited for our girls, Amelia Garrison, and Julia Belle Forbes, to embark upon this amazing journey. It’s hard to describe how special it is for them to be there together and to be stepping back on campus with Dawson again! Stay tuned for some fun stories, for sure! As for myself, we are busy with life, just as you all are. Getting Amelia (14) ready for her “graduation” from St. David’s School and her transition to Saint Mary’s this fall. Our son, Thatcher (16), will be a junior next fall at St. David’s School, and we are beginning the college visits and research. Time, slow down! We are all looking forward to time in Atlantic Beach this summer and as always, hope to see some of you there. Until next time, y’all take care of yourselves and know I think of you often. XO Tate

1996

COLLEGE Deborah Aycock Everett ’96C Hello Class of ‘96C! I hope everyone is doing well. I loved hearing from several of you! I am still living in Raleigh and now that my kids have gotten older (20 and 16), I have started working full time again in interior design, servicing both Raleigh and the Atlantic Beach area. Tracy Tranguch McAvoy is in the midst of an exciting year as her daughter, Finley, will be receiving her first Holy Communion. Tracy and husband Matt are both in the medical field and Tracy started a new career in biologics as a medical specialist with Regeneron. She feels very blessed to see Karen Edmonson Dann often, as their children attend the same school. Christy Hall Teachey is doing well and currently living in Warrenton, Virginia, with husband Paul and their two sons. Christy is working part time at her youngest son’s school. Their oldest son just graduated high school and will be attending college in the fall. Christy and her family enjoy visiting historical sights, hiking, and going to local wineries in their free time on the weekends. Julianne Arnold Thomas is still living in Wilson, and her twin boys are now 16. She was hoping to spend a relaxing summer at the beach! Eliza Pittman Stephenson is also living in Wilson. Her daughter, Mallory, is 14 and Russell just turned 12. They have just completed eighth and sixth grades at Greenfield Elementary School and both enjoy playing various sports teams in school, as well as traveling. Mallory loves all things equestrian, as well as travel

soccer. Russell spends a lot of his time on the baseball field and also plays soccer. He is also learning to love tennis. Eliza and husband Lee celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary this year and traveled with Barton College on an amazing trip to France last fall. Lee and Eliza are both still working in the millwork and interior design fields. Candler Vaughan Cox is now an empty- nester, living in Kernersville with the love of her life, Scott, and their black lab, Pepper. Her three girls are all away at school. Candler’s oldest daughter, Abby, is a rising junior at East Carolina, and her middle daughter, Kate, is a freshman at UNC-Wilmington. Her youngest, Cooper, is a sophomore in high school at IMG Academy in Florida. Scott has a daughter, Abby, who is a senior at N.C. State and his younger daughter, Allison, will be a freshman at Appalachian State in the fall. Candler has her dream job with The Ginther Group at Keller Williams in WinstonSalem, helping others buy and sell homes. Tracy Ivey Batts and husband Greg are still living in Zebulon, with their two children, Owen (11) and Ivey (9). They love to travel and marked Hawaii off of their bucket list this year! Tracy has been working at Novozymes in Franklinton for 23 years now. Tracy’s mom, Gail Ivey, is doing well and says hello to everyone. I hope everyone enjoys a wonderful summer and year ahead and I hope to see you all sometime soon! Much love, Deborah Aycock Everett

1996

HIGH SCHOOL And

1998

COLLEGE Caroline Mitchell Poteat writes, “Our family is in Asheville and our boys are growing up way too fast! Winn is 15 and Crayton is 16. We also have two dogs, Fly and Lewis. My husband, Landon, continues to work hard running his own dental practice and I am currently working at PACE as a team RN. We are all doing well!” Laura-Burke Davis Kerr and husband John still live in Raleigh.

They celebrated their 20th anniversary this summer. “We were thrilled to have our oldest, Grace Kerr ’26, as a freshman at SMS this year.

It has been so much fun being back on campus and seeing old faces and meeting new ones!

Our youngest, Ellie (11) is anxiously waiting her turn!”

1997

COLLEGE Kristin Woods Williamson ’97C Whitley Adkins Hamlin reports from Charlotte that her incredible boys, Hank and Worth, are now 15 and 12. You might remember that Whit is an avid runner but had surgery this summer for traumatic arthritis. She’s grateful to have been able to remain active in her ways and life is good!

You can find her at her website, whitleyatkins. com, and she welcomes visitors to Charlotte!

I’m in Columbia, South Carolina, and am mostly at home these days with my girls, Claudia (7) and Mercer (9). Hope we can all catch

up soon! I’d love to hear from y’all! Kristen

1998

HIGH SCHOOL Marian Morris Godwin is thrilled to be on Saint Mary’s campus often, celebrating cherished SMS memories with her daughter, Anderson Adams ’25, who is a junior day student. Marian is serving as treasurer of the SMS Parents Association and is the director of advancement at St. Timothy’s School in Raleigh, where her daughter, Coble, attends. Hope Valentine has moved from the West Coast (Portland, Oregon), where she lived for 13 years, to Virginia Beach. She is glad to be closer to her parents in North Carolina. She is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.

1999

Elizabeth Moerman Davis ’99 Merritt Atkins writes, “Hello SMS ‘99! Life is going well here in Raleigh. I’m still working at Holt Brothers Construction and living downtown.

Brian and I love being part of this growing, changing, and vibrant place. When we aren’t busy here, you’ll find us in Beaufort. I have loved seeing fellow classmates on campus over the last few years – Georgia and LaQuoia have both served on our Alumnae Leadership Council and done great things for our school. I have enjoyed being a member of the board of trustees for nearly two years, and this summer I will become chair – a role in which I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to serve. Being on campus reminds me how much my time at Saint Mary’s influences who I am now. You would be proud of the girls today: they are exuberant, driven, impressive, and amazing. I miss seeing all of you and hope that we can connect and celebrate together on campus at our reunion this spring!” Elizabeth

2000

Katherine Cvetko McElroy ’00 Anna Dale Bazemore can’t believe her son, Hudson, will be at Broughton High School in the fall, and son Myers will be in third grade. Babies sure do not keep! Her husband, Jonathan, is working on the 2024 Olympics, so hopefully her family will be spending a lot of time in Paris over the next year. Anna enjoys keeping up with so many SMS friends through her kids and sports, at the beach, and around Raleigh. Michaela Idhammar Ketpura still lives in the mountains of Colorado, right outside of Aspen. She recently celebrated eight years as the executive director of Aspen Youth Center and she still loves it. She has also been appointed to the City of Aspen Kids First advisory board, where she enjoys serving community youth.

She and husband Nick continue to enjoy the outdoors with their daughter, Sylive (6), and their son, Antoni (2). Jamie Miller Brown reports, “We are still loving life in Wilmington, and stay super busy with our three boys: Corbett, Miller, and Hap. We welcomed Henry “Hap” Patterson Brown on November 21, 2022. Our house is

hectic and noisy but so fun!” Anna Burkhart Turner lives in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, working for a tech company in Ohio as a product executive. She and her husband, Matt, have two boys who are now 9- and 12-yearsold. Anna was looking forward to two summer vacations near Cashiers this summer. She’s enjoying spending time outdoors and in the pool. As for me, my family and I have been living in Charleston for a grand total of 18 years. Can’t believe we graduated 23 years ago! We enjoyed a fun trip to N.Y.C. back in December and visited with a dear SMS friend and her sweet family, Kelly Stocks Milam ’01HS. My youngest, Eve (6), will be going to Camp Seafarer this summer with Annie Coley, daughter of another close SMS friend, Austin Nash Coley ’01. And always, enjoying some blessings with Lizzie Davis Elder ’01! Wishing you all a healthy and happy summer! Katherine

2001

Louise Beasley Warenda ’01 Kathryn Calder Barmore reports that she, Taylor Lyon McGowan, and Mary Catherine Benson Grew recently had a wonderful time supporting Lindsey Suggs Gregg and her business, LSG Interiors. Lindsey is a committee member and business sponsor at the Cameron Art Museum’s springtime fundraiser, Design NC in Wilmington.

This annual event should be on anyone’s radar who has an interest in design! Lauren Talton Daniel is still coordinating water education programs for NC DEQ and living at the coast in Carteret County. A new project she has recently started is designing a Living Shoreline Certification course for NC Sea Grant with Carteret Community College. Lauren is working on connecting natural shoreline management solutions with coastal property owners. If you are a shoreline property owner, please reach out! Amanda Baker Harris still resides in Raleigh with her husband, George. She cherishes every moment raising their son, Burns, who turns four in August. Kimmi Kresica finished her MSIS at UNC-Chapel Hill in December. She spent last spring interning at the Library of Congress, cataloging Polish and French items in the Germanic and Slavic division. It was an amazing place to work and seeing the cherry blossoms was lovely. For the summer, she is interning at the State Archives of North Carolina, applying for jobs and resting a bit at home in the Triangle.

Macon Sykes Parsley lives in Winston-Salem with husband, Robert, and children, Brooks (7) and Wells (4). Lauren Rutherford Perry works with the North Carolina Bankers Association in Raleigh. She was promoted this year to SVP and president of community bank services.

Lauren continues to live in Colerain, North Carolina, with husband George, son George IV “Ivey” (who recently started signing his name “George”), age 8, and daughter Mary Charles, age 4. They are staying busy with school, work, and plenty of activities. Clara Wortham Robinson is a practicing nurse practitioner in urology with a specialty in women’s surgical pelvic organ reconstruction. She and Stuart and going on their 12th year of marriage and welcomed baby William Frank on March 14,

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Left to right, front row: CJ Barefoot ’03, Taylor White ’03, Tatyana Sharoubim-Stewart ’03, Ashleigh Doyle ’03, Wesley Allsbrook ’03. Second row: Nicole Franklin Thompson ’03, Hunter Snell Schenk ’03, Elly Wilkins Johnson ’03, Lindsay Alexander Strickland ’03, Mary Kaitland Stuart Davis ’03, Janna Neisler Myers ’03. Third row: Louisa Walker Trouche ’03, Kathryn Doll Adham '03, Kate Yandell Reece ’03 Laura Hill Dunaway ’03, Reagan Cannon ’03. Fourth row: Emily Rudkin Day ’03, Margot Childs Stanley ’03, Shea Vause Gravely ’03, Braz Shabrell ’03, Margaret Gibson Arnett ’03, Betsy Smyth Bramley ’03, Meg Meighan de Carlson ’03

2023, joining big brother and big sister Wesley and Emma. Sara Frackelton Spotswood and her husband, Brian, welcomed their son into this world on October 28, 2022. They are still living in Texas but try to come back to the East Coast every chance they get! Shortly after returning from maternity leave, she was promoted to assistant clinical director at Dallas Counseling and Treatment Center. Sara enjoys supervising clinicians and associates, as she is now an LPCsupervisor. Travis Manning Berk writes, “I am living in Valle Crucis and am practicing marriage and family therapy. Jones (8) and Mariana (6) are both happy and healthy, living their best lives. Summer plans include a trip to the beach with family, including my mother, Missy Taylor Manning ’71HS ’73C and sister Alice Manning Touchette ’97HS.” Louise Beasley Warenda: Happy summer, friends. Please continue to stay in touch. It’s good hearing from classmates. For me, life juggles between family, work, and play remain the same. We’re looking forward to lots of summer fun with Beasley (12), Mary Bruce (9) and Emily (4). Louise

2002

Katie Jones Kindborg reports, “My husband, Kris, and I are doing well! We welcomed our daughter, Alexandra, in September of 2021, and she’s now a very energetic 19-month-old. I work for a pharmaceutical company and really

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enjoy the work I’m doing. I also currently serve on the Alumnae Leadership Council for SMS. I enjoyed seeing several members of our class at last year’s 20th reunion!” Jillana Lamm Zipf had her first pop-up shop art sale at Monkee’s of Greenville, North Carolina, in April. More than 35 original pieces of art were for sale.

2004

Katie Whitmore Allred ’04 Ryan Anthony Marston and her husband, Bobby, welcomed their third child on April 9, 2023. His name is Graham Hopkins, and his two older siblings couldn’t be more in love with him!

Cameron Moss Daniel lives in Elm City with her husband, Stephen. Last October, Cameron and Stephen welcomed baby boy, Lawrence “Dutton” Daniel. They are enjoying watching Dutton grow and discover the world. In their spare time, they enjoy boating and hanging out at their beach house in Emerald Isle. Cameron is still working as a marketing consultant at global engineering firm, WSP USA. She cannot believe the 20-year class reunion is next year!

Merriweather Raidle Mulé lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband, Michael, and two children, Camille (7(teen) and Gabriel (5). Santa surprised the family with a puppy at Christmas, so we welcomed Pippa Middleton Mulé into the family. Merriweather and the kids were thrilled! (Michael is still adjusting).

Merriweather works as the senior wealth advisor for Beacon Pointe Advisors in Charleston and enjoys helping clients invest and plan for their financial future. Michael and Merriweather worked very hard cheering on their College of Charleston Cougars to the NCAA Tournament this year and look forward to making it past the first round in 2024. Allison Schoen Hepfner currently lives in Spartanburg, South Carolina, with her husband, Craig, and children, Emmy (11) and Tripp (7). She enjoys raising her children and spending time with her family. She is making the move to middle school principal of DR Hill Middle School next school year, which is the feeder school to the elementary school where she currently serves as principal. Recently, her daughter had the opportunity to tour Saint Mary’s and is counting down the days until she can be a student. Sarah Simons Team lives in Winston-Salem with her husband, Coleman, and two daughters, Milly (9) and Copeland (6). Emily Stocks Walker lives in Dallas with her husband, Austin, and three sons, Stocks (7), Noble (5), and Asher (2). After four years in Southern Pines, we are moving to Landstuhl, Germany, where my husband will serve as a dentist in the Army.

It’s bittersweet, as we have loved our time back home in North Carolina, but we are looking forward to this grand adventure with our sons, Bobby (5) and Henry (3)! As always, thank you to everyone who sent in news, can you believe our 20-year reunion is on the horizon? Katie

Left to right, front row: Nancy Stewart McLendon Dickson '08, Julia Nutt Ratliff '08, Sarah Staton Nash '08, Mary Brown Taylor '08. Second row: Beth Walters Nash '08, Aly Stanley Hethcoat '08, Sidney Dawson Dozier '08, Sara Walker '08, Kiki Sloan Eatman '08, Suneha Sundaram '08, Mary Reid Larcade ’08. Third row: Lauren Worthy Barker '08, Kallie Blount '08, Cameron Robbins Taylor '08, Hayley Dillon Cain '08, Katie Matthews Darling '08, Loftin Johnson Farrar '08. Fourth row: Jennifer Currier '08, Emily Skipper '08, Heather Dew Rosa '08, Crutcher Nash Battin '08, McCauley James Yates '08, Elizabeth Mills Grantham '08

2005

Ila Walker Bitner ’05 My husband, Robbie, and I are excited to be home with both of our children, Bear (6) and Brinn Louise (3). Brinn Louise rang the bell after finishing her treatments at UNC Hospital for acute myeloid leukemia on May 4. Bear has been the best big brother through all of it and had a wonderful kindergarten year. We are looking forward to a fun and healthy summer! Katherine Carlton ’05 got married at Saint Mary’s in May, and we enjoyed spending a fun weekend with a lot of our classmates and other Saint Mary’s girls, including Hattie Walter Steffens, Caroline Estill Ramsey, Claire Cosgrove Edmondson, Ryan Lee Stewart, Alexandra Carlson, Caroline McClintic Flannery, Taylor Rice Robbins ‘06, Claudia Bishop Stubbs ’93HS, and of course my mom, Bess Knotts Walker ’76C!

2006

Caroline Ward Manning ’06 Alexandra Bielec Pagel has a son, Frederick Alexander Pagel, born Feb. 10, 2021. Lizzy Custer Wilson and her family moved to Wilmington, her original hometown, where her husband has started his radiology career. Lizzy is taking professional family photos. “Life by the ocean is great and I am keeping busy with our two daughters.” Caroline

2007

Elizabeth Lowder ’07 Blair Mikels Baker and her husband welcomed their second child on October 16, 2022, James Turner Baker, or «Toot» for short. They are currently renovating an old mid-century service station in Beaufort and plan to open the second location of their fabric and wallpaper showroom in late 2023. If anyone visits the beach, stop by and say hello – they’d love to help you find the perfect fabric or paper for your project. This spring, Cally Eberle Ciencin got married to Brian Ciencin in a beautiful ceremony on April 29, 2023. Her sister, Sarah Eberle McAnulty ’06, and Courtney Lindt Thompson were both members of her bridal party. Scottie Springer O’Herron had a baby girl, Maggie O’Herron in May. Scottie writes, “She hopefully will be an SMS girl one day! Both of her grandmothers went to SMS as well – Margie Johnson Springer ’79HS and Barbara MiIler O’Herron ’70C.” Annie Sellers Greene and her family are enjoying life in Charlotte, where they welcomed Mary Jane Greene on October 5, 2022. Big brother Garrison (3) is as happy as can be with the new addition. Bridget Myers Manuel is working as an online teacher for a school in Michigan, while her husband works at a local hospital near La Crosse, Wisconsin. Her daughter turned two this summer and is growing like a weed! Over on the west coast, Margaret Cheatham Williams is in California, now an editor for ProPublica,

making documentary films. Her son, Hamer, was two in June, and she still shares a gallery and fine art space with Gabe Bratton Hall ’05.

As for me, Lizzie Lowder, I have loved catching up with y’all through the years. From my sweet home in Alabama to yours, I’m wishing you all the very best! Elizabeth

2008

Mary Brown Taylor ’08 Lauren Worthy Barker lives in Wilson with her husband, Taylor, and son, Worth. She works for Truist as a human resources operations manager. Anna Betts Kirby lives in Wake Forest with her husband, Winston, and is a full-time faculty member at Wake Technical Community College, where she works as an English instructor. She is pursuing her 500 RYT (500 hours for yoga teacher training) as her hobby/ passion. Kallie Blount lives in Wilson and works as the director of travel and sales for Group International Specialty Travel in New York. She is pursuing her passion for travel and building itineraries abroad. Elizabeth Bonner Covington lives in Charlotte with her husband, Alec, and her two boys, Harrison and Clark. She works as a PR account manager at Chernoff Newman. Julie Bynum Fraser lives in Jackson, Wyoming, with her husband, Jimmy, and works as a creative partner for a San Francisco-based design company, Brilliant. Hayley Dillon Cain

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lives in Raleigh with her husband, Brad, and their daughters, Millie and Grace. She works for Deloitte Management Consulting. Claire Chewning Smith lives in Beaufort, South Carolina, with her husband, Alec, and their son, Arch. Claire works as a seventh-grade ELA/social studies teacher in Bluffton, South Carolina, at River Ridge Academy. Martha Cox Whitesides and husband Tucker live in Wilmington. Allison Cranfill Haywood lives in Raleigh with her husband, John. She works with her husband at his company, John Haywood Antiques, LLC, an antique dealer specializing in early southern American furniture, and still paints (primarily pet portraits) on the side. Jennifer Currier lives in West Asheville and works as the head of sour and wine production for Wicked Weed Brewing. Katherine Darden lives in Raleigh. She was married to Tolson Kenney in Beaufort in October 2022. She is the manager of Death and Taxes restaurant. Liz D’Atri Stefani works as the creative marketing manager for a real estate firm in Boston. Heather Dew Rosa lives in Asheville with husband Alex and their labradoodle, Berta. She works as a program manager at SCS Global Services. Betsy Douglass lives in Charleston, South Carolina, where she is an artist. Sidney Dawson Dozier lives in Raleigh with husband Chris and their three children: Covington, Rush, and Kemp. She works for AWH partners. Stephanie Gherini lives in Nashville, Tennessee, working as head of tour marketing at Wasserman music - a talent agency that represents clientele such as Billie Eilish, Ed Sheeran, Kacey Musgraves, Drake, Coldplay, Dave Matthews, and Kenny Chesney, to name a few.

Catherine Early, Ph.D., lives in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and is the chair of the biology department and curator of ornithology at the Science Museum of Minnesota. Kiki Sloan Eatman lives in Raleigh with her husband, Jim, and two daughters, Mary Kate and Margaret. She works as a regional account manager for James Hardie building products. Elizabeth Mills Grantham lives in Wilmington with her husband, Stewart and their daughter, Straley. She works as a program manager on the sales enablement and development team at Red Hat. Loftin Johnson Farrar lives in Raleigh with her husband, Lyle, where she works as the director of fitness at the North Hills Club. Mary Reid Larcade lives in Raleigh and works as a Licensed Professional Counselor at the family practice, Larcade Psychiatric Associates, PLLC. She specializes in working with adolescents and young adults with anxiety and depression. Roslyn Ragsdale Manning and her husband, Max, live in Crestwood, Kentucky, with their two daughters, Scarlett and Caroline, and son George. She was accepted recently as a Google for Education certified coach, which means she will focus specifically on instructional technology practices. Katie Matthews Darling lives in Charlotte with her husband, Edward, and twin daughters, Margot and Temple. She works as a sales manager for Robinson Media. Catherine Schaefer Maxwell Lane lives in Chicago with her husband, Todd, and works as a senior planner at Nike. Nancy Stewart McLendon Dickson lives in Wilmington with her husband, Michael, and their son, Wilson. She is a pediatric physician assistant at Kidzcare. Mady McLeod Turner lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband, Matt. She is a physical therapist. Liz Moore is a furniture designer and works for her family’s firm, Otto and Moore, Inc. Claire Murray Goolsby lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband, Jeremy, and their son, Will. Danielle Musselwhite lives in Raleigh and works for a company headquartered in San Francisco called 15Five.

Crutcher Nash Battin lives in Raleigh with husband Mark and daughter Lucy. She works for Sunbrella as a sales manager for lifestyle products.

Sarah Staton Nash lives in Charleston, South Carolina, and works as senior sales associate and ALA lighting specialist for Circa lighting. Beth Walters Nash lives in Raleigh with her husband, John, and boys Charlie and Sam. She works as a marketing communications specialist for Red Hat. Julia Nutt Ratliff lives in Wilmington with her husband, Rob. She works at Step-up Wilmington. Cynthia Partrick lives in Charleston, South Carolina, and is a realtor at Keller Williams. Christina Nasuti Phillips lives in Vienna, Virginia, with husband Brian and daughter Amelia Grace. She works as an attorney at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Kim Purcell lives in Washington, D.C., and works in marketing for the Got Milk? campaign. Arden Saunders lives in Crested Butte, Colorado, and is a Pilates instructor. Anna Jane Sewell lives in Raleigh and works as the gallery director at LaMantia Gallery in the Village District. Greyson Kane Sidebotham lives in Raleigh with her husband, John Reid, their son, Reid, and their daughter, Sutton. Jessica Clark Stewart and her husband, Andrew, live in Wake Forest with their two boys, Lyle and Clark. She works as a middle school ELA teacher. Suneha Sundaram lives in Raleigh with

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her husband Rahee. Mary Brown Taylor lives in Raleigh and works for Johnnie-O. Cameron Robbins Taylor and husband Josh live in Raleigh.

She works as sales development represenative to the president of Celito.

Diane Tyndall married her husband, Evan, on May 7, 2023. Sara Walker lives in Raleigh and works for her family business, Walker Auto Parts.

Annie Whitmore lives in Charlotte and works as an RN, BSN at Criswell and Criswell Plastic Surgery. Macky Wingo Trotter lives in Raleigh with her daughter, Audie, and her son, Dierks. She owns and coaches at CrossFit Gym (Stillhouse CrossFit in Garner). McCauley James Yates lives in Raleigh with her husband, Drew, and their daughters, Laine and Tilly. Mary Brown

2009

Betsy Church Bula ’09 Adams Paschal Lent and her husband, Will Lent, welcomed Philippa “Pippa” Bray on April 11, 2023. They live in Charlottesville, Virginia, where Adams works in marketing for WillowTree, a digital product consultancy.

Becca Vinson Hamilton and her husband, John, are the parents of three little ones: John John (3), Haley (20 months), and Mary Walker (8 months).

Becca continues to enjoy her work as a therapist at Cultivate Counseling, specializing in maternal mental health. Becca misses Raleigh greatly, yet is thankful for the community she and John have found in Atlanta.

Arrington Clark Caison, her husband, John, and their 18-month-old son, Jack, returned to Raleigh after four years in Chicago and are thrilled to be home. Arrington works as a public art consultant and a mother. Sara Williamson Castellino lives in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, with her husband, Dylan, and their English setter, Miles. She works at Barnhill Contracting Company in corporate and community outreach. Maggie Bratton Dillon and her husband, Alex, moved back to Raleigh summer of 2021. She’s going on year four of owning her own business, Maggie Dillon Interiors. They welcomed their son, John “Jack” Alexander Dillon, in June 2022. Perri Kritz Hoyt and her husband, Matt, welcomed their second child, Jack Hoyt, on July 19, 2022. Perri lives in Greensboro and works at B’nai Shalom Day School as a school counselor. Megan Currin Shiels and her husband have been living in Nashville, Tennessee, for the last four years and have welcomed a son (3) and a daughter (1) during that time. She is taking a break from teaching to be home with them.

Laura Medlin Mickel and her husband, Zach, moved to Johnson City, Tennessee, last August and are enjoying exploring the area and being close to the mountains. She started a new job as an attorney at Hunter, Smith & Davis, LLP. They miss Raleigh but have had fun being somewhere new! Betsy Bryan Pitts Mandl and her husband, Michael, have been back in Charlotte for over three years now. They are loving their renovated house and backyard for their dog, Wallace. They’ve also enjoyed lots of weekend travel visiting friends and going to the beach. Sara Bailey Stocks Pate lives in Raleigh with her husband, Kep, and two children, Lily Stocks (2) and Henry (4). She started a new job at Atlassian last year. She lives two doors down from Ferebee Frazier Plyler. Ferebee and her husband, Will, welcomed their son, William “Bill” Plyler, in July 2022. They also have a 4-year-old daughter, Marian. Emma Carol Lewis Moore married her husband, Joe Forrest Moore, in April 2022. She works for First Citizens Bank in their corporate tower at North Hills. She says it’s been an amazing year so far! Dan and I welcomed our daughter, Emory Simmons Bula, in August 2022. She’s been such a joy for our whole family! We live in North Hills (just a few houses down from Arrington!) with Emory’s furry big sister, Sadie. I’m a brand strategist for a software company, GitLab. Sending love to you all and so excited to see lots of you next year at our 15th reunion! XO Betsy

2010

Emma Powell Pike ’10 Kaitlyn Vinson is in her final year of pediatrics residency in Greenville, South Carolina, with plans to be a general outpatient pediatrician. She stays busy with her three rescues: a black lab mix and two cats. Molly Bryant Phillips and her husband, Chip, were married in July 2021 in Bluffton, South Carolina. They recently bought a house and moved to Greenville, South Carolina, from Alexandria, Virginia. Laura Gulledge Rust and her husband, Evan, welcomed a son, Charles Blase Rust, on May 1.

Laura owns and runs her own residential remodeling company, Gulledge

Building Company. Anna Dillon Sibley and her husband, David, are busy raising 1-year-old Barnes. Ashley Flynn works at Duke University Medical Center in the emergency department/ trauma center. She is also in the process of becoming an adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner through Duke. She expects to graduate in spring 2025. Caitlin Monahan lives in Chicago and works as an engineer with Turner Construction Company. She manages the skin of a large building project consisting of glass, brick, metal panel, and roof for an additional four stories on top of an existing hospital. She is still with her long-term boyfriend of six years.

Whitney Currin writes that she was married to Buck Rogers on October 29, 2022. Gabie Craig Frantz and her husband, Rob, are staying busy with two-year-old Beal and their downtown Raleigh bar and event space, Junction West. I recruit for accounting and finance professionals across the Southeast as an associate director with Vaco. My husband, son, and I live in Morehead City and are enjoying life on the coast. Emma Powell Pike

2011 Elizabeth Ann Carson Blair ’11 Hayden Rizer Stricklin was married November 19, 2022, to Gordon Taylor Lewis Stricklin in Birmingham, Ala. They both live there and work for Vestavia Hills City School system. Becca Humphrey Blackwell married Ruffin Sage Blackwell II on June 27, 2022.

Sarah Anne Hamilton Ryan married Peter Ryan, on May 7, 2022. “We moved to Sanford in December, where I started my own art business, Sarah Anne Ryan Art.” Sallie Bailey Plumley and husband Charlie welcomed their baby girl, Eloise Anne, into the world on October 1, 2022, in Richmond, Virginia. Sallie continues to run her custom woodworking business full time and really enjoys all of the people she gets to meet while crafting creative furniture for them! Elizabeth Ann Carson Blair works as an interior designer in Charlotte, where she lives with her husband, William, and their two dogs. When not working, she and her husband enjoy spending their time at their farm house in Milton. Emily Harmer Childers moved to Tallahassee, Florida, and is working as a preschool teacher. Caroline Hunt moved back to North Carolina and enjoys working for Peter Millar.

Elizabeth Williams Ellington lives in Charlotte with her husband and their black lab. She works for Coley Home. Virgina Fulenwider Edwards is living in Morganton with her husband and three dogs. She runs marketing for Fulenwider Enterprises. Hannah Moore Harris manages a pet resort and living in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, with her two children, Henry (3) and Charlotte (1). Sally Cann Holmes is teaching PreK and living in Mobile, Alabama, with her husband and son, Charlie (1). Caroline Collie Fricke works for Hancock Whitney Bank based in New Orleans, and lives in Raleigh with her husband, Ryan Fricke, and their dog Falco.

Lizzie Jenkins works in the education section of the North Carolina Department of Justice and lives in Raleigh with her dog, Daphne.

Rebecca Behar Gronroos works on the IT team for JLL. She and her husband moved to Raleigh last fall and welcomed a daughter in February.

Millie Fulk Cleavenger lives in Charlotte and was married in 2022 to her husband, Grant.

She works as a pediatric emergency medicine travel nurse. Stuart Anderson moved back to her hometown of Tarboro. She opened her men and women’s retail clothing store, Berry & Bud, in April 2023. Elizabeth Kerns Roberts lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband, where she works as an associate director for a marketing strategy firm based out of D.C. They just welcomed a new baby girl into their family. Katherine “Kaki” Lee Roberts was born on May 24, 2023, at 8:38 p.m., weighing five pounds and 14 ounces and measuring 18.75 inches long. Mom, dad, and Kaki are doing well.

Anderson Stark Jensen and her husband live in Raleigh with their two dogs, Murphy and Brooks.

They were married at Saint Mary’s Chapel in 2021. Anderson works at Red Hat. Louise Mann Clement Dull lives with her husband, Will, in Charlotte, and loves living close to lots of other SMS ‘11 friends. She went back to graduate school at UNC-Charlotte in fall 2022 to pursue a master’s in clinical mental health counseling.

Stiles Rader is celebrating 10 years of work with the North Carolina Outward School and lives in Asheville. She recently transitioned into the head of community engagement position at the French Broad River Academy girls’ middle school. Stiles spends her free time mountain biking, kayaking, and enjoying western North Carolina! Elizabeth

2012

Hailey Hart Borden ’12 Hailey Hart Borden lives in Washington, D.C., with her husband, Edwin, and golden retriever Mossy. Hailey works in the Capitol as director of business coalitions for the House Majority Whip.

She enjoys keeping up with her Saint Mary’s friends and seeing the students during the annual AP Government class trip to the Capitol.

Berry Williamson Battey lives in Atlanta with her husband, Patrick, and their golden retriever, Spud. They were married in May 2022 in Barbados. Berry works for Merrill Lynch, in private wealth management. She recently attended the Atlanta SMS alumnae event and has enjoyed meeting local alumnae. She attends a weekly tennis clinic with some fellow alums. Margaret Blincow has moved to Winter Park, Florida, where she continues to be a neurosurgical nurse at a big hospital in Orlando. Bailey Warren Mayer opened Cottage Baby Boutique, an organic and eco-friendly children’s boutique carrying newborn to 4-T. Handpicked items made only from pima cotton, GOTS organic cotton, bamboo, and linen. You can shop online at cottagebabyboutique.com or visit their location in Cary, with a new Raleigh location opening soon. Bailey lives in Raleigh with her husband, Mitchell, and loves getting together with her local SMS friends. Duncan Weaver Flynn lives in Raleigh with husband Daniel, son Henry, and dog Mabel. Duncan and Daniel welcomed their son, Henry Lawrence Flynn, on February 23,

2023. She loves getting together with her Saint Mary’s friends and volunteering at SMS with the FOCUS ministry. Carrie Coleman Paxton and her husband, Nick, welcomed Nora Jane Paxton to their family in April and are enjoying life with her at their home in Gordonsville, Virginia, alongside their puppy, Mr. Darcy. Carrie continues to run her wedding photography business and is grateful for the opportunities it creates for visits to Saint Mary’s. Jane Randolph Lyle recently moved from New York City back to her hometown, Charlotte. Jane works for a real estate analytics company called Green Street, as a customer success manager. She enjoys keeping up with her Saint Mary friends and hopes to visit Saint Mary’s campus soon! The “wedding bells” chimed for Cate Lyle Keasler and Mack last May in her hometown of Charlotte. Lots of Saints were there to celebrate the newlyweds!

Cate, Mack, and Charlie (their wiener dog) recently moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where they love to hang with friends and family at the beach or river. Cate has also started a new role as the manager of talent acquisition, where she’s managing a global recruiting team for a SaaS start-up company, Decisions. Getting the opportunity to connect with her Saints is always a good time, and she continues to cherish the memories and friendships she’s made at Saint Mary’s! Eliza Stoughton is celebrating her fourth year living in Raleigh with her mini Bernedoodle, Hattie. She works as an operations lead at a start-up, operating as a marketplace that connects brands with agencies to meet their digital and creative needs. During weekends, Eliza relishes spending time on the boat in Wrightsville Beach with Hattie and visiting her SMS friends all around. Sarah Scott Worth Paschal got married to her husband, Paul, in Beaufort in September 2022, with many of her beloved Saint Mary’s classmates in attendance.

She lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and their golden retriever named Biscuit, where they enjoy going out on the boat, going to the beach, and trying new restaurants.

Sarah Scott works as an account supervisor for a leading public relations and digital marketing agency in Charleston, where she spearheads several accounts ranging from Darius Rucker’s Riverfront Revival Music Festival to a Raleighbased Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy medical practice, allowing her to come back to the City of Oaks often for work (and play). Sarah Scott also volunteers as a head field hockey coach for Charleston Field Hockey Club. Olivia Lanier Bales and her husband, Alex, bought their first home in Harrison, New York, where they now reside with their two golden doodles, Mr. Big and Chapel. Olivia continues to support high-growth start-ups in N.Y.C. as a brand strategist and copy consultant. In their free time, Olivia and Alex enjoy playing golf and pickleball and traveling to visit family and SMS friends around the country. Marwah Alzer received her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy in May. She will be completing a postgraduate year one pediatric residency at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to continue her training as a clinical pediatric pharmacist. When she’s not

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staffing on the weekends, she enjoys exploring Atlanta and spending time with friends and family. Jean Turlington moved to Dallas in 2021 where she now works at a family office, Rosewood Private Investments, investing in health, nutrition, and wellness brands. Jean and her husband, John, adopted a dog, Cloud, in October. Cloud’s favorite pastime is to swallow socks. While in Puerto Rico for Thanksgiving, Jean and John went surfing and got back into the sport! Although difficult to do in Dallas, they traveled to California in March to catch some waves and were hoping to make it to North Carolina this summer to do the same. Kassi Wehbie Saieed lives in Raleigh with her husband, Connor, and puppy, Bonnie. She continues to work at Duke Raleigh Cancer Center and teaches at the University of North Carolina’s School of Nursing. This May, she graduated with her doctorate in nursing practice from the University of North Carolina and will continue to provide care to the oncology population in the Raleigh area after graduation. She was looking forward to a summer of visiting friends, playing tennis, and traveling to Bermuda and Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Kassi cherishes her time with local SMS friends in Bible study, book clubs, mahjong, and casual dinners, and she looks forward to trips to visit girls this upcoming year. Hailey

2013

Catherine Carter ’13 It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces at our 10-year reunion back in April! Sylvia Weir Lee is happy to report her girls, Genevieve (3) and Bernadette (1), are growing. She was excited to bring them to our Saint Mary’s Reunion Weekend, their very first visit to SMS! “Clint, the farm, the Kisatchie National Forest, and I are doing well.” Gini Todd Brink and her husband celebrated the birth of their son, Colton Tyler Brink, on January 31, 2023. They are enjoying life in Texas! As for me, Catherine Carter, The Gatorbug is keeping me on my toes these days! As always, it’s a pleasure to serve as your 2013 class secretary! Catherine

Creech on November 12, 2022, in a beautiful ceremony in Washington, N.C. Tori Crook writes: “I graduated from Yale Divinity School May of 2022 with my master’s in divinity. Then I moved from New Haven, Connecticut, to Chattanooga, Tennessee, in July of 2022 and began my new job as the director of youth ministries at First-Centenary UMC in downtown Chattanooga. I’ve been enjoying getting to know the area and my community.” Emily Evans continues to live in the Dilworth neighborhood in Charlotte, and recently celebrated a five-year work anniversary with Raytheon Technologies. Emily was looking forward to spending time at Wrightsville Beach this summer and loves catching up with all the SMS girls in Charlotte! Annalise Franchina is living on the Upper East Side of N.Y.C. and is coming up on her fourth year at Goldman Sachs. She was recently promoted and helps manage the corporate bond trading book for the prime brokerage securities lending group. Annalise was looking forward to spending many enjoyable weekends in the mountains of North Carolina this summer! Cynthia Coleman Hutcherson is doing well and is happy to report that she and her husband, Tyler, just bought their first house in Richmond, Virginia. Cynthia’s enjoying getting to reconnect with her Saint Mary’s classmates at the many weddings she’s attended in recent months and is looking forward to the 10-year reunion that is quickly approaching! Florrie McCard rang in the New Year celebrating her marriage to Kate McHale, with fellow Class of 2014 SMS sisters Emily Evans, Mary Stuart Fountain, Cynthia Coleman Hutcherson, Lindsay Nevitt, and Annalise Franchina all in attendance. Florrie writes “We are living in the Bishop’s House and enjoying life on campus with our dogs, Fred and Walter. Can’t wait to welcome everyone back for our 10-year reunion!” Lindsay Nevitt lives in Boston and recently moved to the Beacon Hill neighborhood. She is celebrating a five-year work anniversary at Jack Morton and, in 2022, won a companywide award in recognition of significant contributions made to the company, and for embodying the pillars of passion, agility, and respect. As part of her award, Lindsay was given a trip to Australia. She was looking forward to exploring her new neighborhood this summer. Anna Lane Mayo Patterson married her husband, Tyler Benton Patterson, on May 6, 2023, in Washington, North Carolina. Anna Lane and Tyler reside in Charleston, South Carolina, as they begin their marriage! As for me, Mary Stuart Fountain, I left Charlotte in August last year and went back to school to get my MBA at the University of Georgia Terry College of Business in Athens. I had a great first year of the MBA program in Athens, especially cheering on the Bulldawgs to another football national championship. This summer, I was back in Charlotte, working as a summer associate with Bank of America before returning to Athens for my final year in the MBA program. Go Dawgs!

I have enjoyed seeing many SMS friends at recent weddings and have also enjoyed recent visits with my sisters, Caroline Fountain ’16, who lives in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Margaret Fountain ’18, who graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in May of 2022 and works in Raleigh. Thank you again to everyone who sent in class news. Remember to keep in touch.

As always, proud to be a Saint Mary’s Girl! Much love to everyone, Mary Stuart Fountain ’14

2015

Left to right: Esther Taati ’13, Savannah Edwards ’13, Savannah Reynolds ’13, Marion Brown ’13, Gini Todd Brink ’13

2014

Mary Stuart Fountain ’14 Hello, SMS Class of 2014 Saints! I hope you all are well, healthy, and safe.

It was great to hear from so many of you. Thank you to everyone who submitted class news. It is always fun to learn about the great things you are doing in your communities. I look forward to seeing many of you in person for our 10-year reunion next spring! Mary Haley Brewer married Bill Brewer on April 15, 2023. Mary is having fun continuing to grow her stationery business, Surcie, with her sister. Surrounded by many Saint Mary’s girls and friends, Katie Nash Creech married Chandler

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Kayla Gwaltney ’15 and Hayley Scialdone ’15 Kayla Gwaltney and Hayley Scialdone are once again honored to hear from so many members of the Class of 2015! It blows our minds that eight years have passed since we turned our rings to face the world beyond the gates and we cannot wait until our 10-year reunion! Kayla has spent the year living in N.Y.C., and has enjoyed making new friends, exploring the city, and making memories. She is moving back to North Carolina this fall to work in the Outer Banks and is excited to see what life has in store for her next! Hayley is still located in N.Y.C., and is working as the director of UX design at an e-commerce agency where she has experienced several promotions and exciting role changes this year. She planned to spend her summer living in the Hamptons. Moira Barrett is traveling internationally, working as a professional race mechanic for a UCI Women’s Continental Team, and enjoying the splendors therein on the side. Alice Gaddis graduated from Idaho State University in December of 2022 with a bachelor’s in physical education with an emphasis in outdoor education.

She has accepted an invitation to volunteer with the Peace Corps and will be serving as a forestry and environmental extension agent in Senegal from September 2023 through November 2025.

Abigail Ueland is in her fourth year living in San Francisco. She has been at Meta for four years and is looking forward to seeing what new advancements the Metaverse will bring. During her free time, she’s picked up golf and continues to travel to visit family and friends. She’s excited to have her younger sister, Hannah Ueland ’17, visiting for a few months early this fall. There have been many changes that have occurred since Ciera Woodard graduated SMS in 2015.

Ciera graduated with her Doctor of Pharmacy degree in May 2021 at the illustrious Hampton University. She has recently completed her post-doctoral fellowship at Johnson and Johnson and accepted a full-time offer as an oncology risk management senior specialist.

She also works part time at Duke University Health Systems as a clinical IV pharmacist.

Outside of her work life, she is helping take care of her father. She loves to work out at Burn Boot Camp, walking trails, being a part-time cat mom to her boyfriend’s two cats, and she just became a dog mom herself to her goldendoodle, Snoodles. Ciera is looking forward to continuing her life in Raleigh, where it all began! Aurelia Monk finished her third year of medical school at UNC. She thoroughly enjoyed being back in Charlotte for her clinical rotations during her third year. She is honored to have been chosen as one of the Howard Holderness Distinguished Medical Scholars. Through this program, she will be able to take a year off school to conduct independent research. She is planning to do her research with the UNC Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery. In her research year she also plans to travel with friends and family, as well as spend more time on her hobbies such as pickleball, needlepoint, and reading. Hannah Groover is attending N.C. State, completing a Master of Social Work degree. She is also completing extra educational programming to become a licensed clinical addiction specialist. In addition to these pursuits, she is currently serving as a recovery coach at Wake Monarch Academy. Hannah Cheney continues to live in Boston after the completion of her master’s program in international management at Northeastern University. She is currently working for Ovia Health, a women’s health organization that spans the spectrum of family health, fertility, family planning, parenting, and menopause, as a growth marketing manager. Apart from work, she has been spending time traveling, completing art projects, and playing softball in a local league. This summer, she was putting down more permanent roots in Boston and officially closing on her condo. Augusta Moran graduated from Campbell University’s School of Law in May 2022 and is glad to finally be finished with homework forever. She became a licensed attorney in North Carolina in September and works at Ricci Law Firm, P.A. as a workers’ compensation attorney. You may recognize her boss from his commercials where he is standing on a big 18-wheeler! She loves working with her

clients and protecting the livelihood of individuals who have been hurt on the job. She mediates her cases regularly, which she enjoys because she gets to just talk all day. She is happy to be in Raleigh and is always excited to host her friends when they visit. This year she took over for her mother as the director of the Christmas pageant at her church, Christ Episcopal Church, and really enjoys volunteering there in the children and youth ministries. Sarah Boyce Young married Andrew Young in November on Bald Head Island. They are now living in Raleigh with their dog, Winnie. Sarah recently joined Eckel & Vaughan, a marketing and communications agency, as an account manager. Morgan Seidel Abreu and her husband, Eduardo, recently moved to Oahu after living in Washington for two years. She was promoted to senior strategic account manager at Thorne in her four years at the company. In her free time, Morgan enjoys running, hiking, and exploring new places. She is currently training for a half marathon. Maggie Collier is still living in Nashville, Tennessee, and hanging out with Taryn Travis. Maggie was excited to start a job as a new business development representative at Bohan Advertising, moving into a new apartment, and releasing an EP this year. Anna Carson Buckthal moved to N.Y.C. in the summer of 2022. She is working remotely as an account manager at a Charlotte-based ad agency, Union. She recently married a Woodberry alum, Peter Bristow, in May 2023 in Raleigh. She’s enjoying exploring the city! Liddy Blincow left her nursing job in Charlotte to become a travel nurse. She just spent the past eight months on her first assignment in Dallas as a bone marrow transplant nurse. She is fully in the season of weddings and engagements and got to be by Jacqueline Collie’s side for her wedding and by Anna-Gray Stallings’s side for her wedding in June. She is sure that there will be many more SMS girls to come! She is hoping Maddy Sullivan catches the bouquet at the next one. Makenzie Fletcher Caycedo and her husband, Javier, welcomed baby girl Sofía into their family last August. Makenzie is currently a doctoral candidate in education: curriculum and instruction. She continues to live in Lynchburg, Virginia, and work remotely, which allows her to watch Sofía grow every day. Rollins Crumpton is a second-year physician assistant student at UNC-CH. She is currently completing her clinical rotations and will graduate in December.

Stephanie Hamilton Passmore and her husband live in Beaufort, North Carolina. Their daughter, Lyla Rose, just turned one, and she definitely keeps them on their toes! Stephanie just finished her master’s degree in healthcare administration and has also been running an online boutique for almost a year. She renovated a storefront which opened in June. Caroline Edwards Flythe is working as a licensed nursing home administrator. She and her husband, Samuel, just celebrated their one-year wedding anniversary and live in Edgecombe County with their dog, Sage. Sophie Wilfong is currently in New York City, where she’s been living since graduating from Saint Mary’s in 2015. Sophie is about to start her seventh year working at

Broadway Dance Center’s children and teens program this coming fall, where she teaches ages 3-17 in all styles of dance. Sophie and her dog, Spicy, have also recently broken into the production and acting industry and have appeared together in advertisements for companies like Milkbone and Pet Honesty.

Emma Wason is enjoying her time living in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, with her dog, Dooley.

She is working passionately at Georgetown University in the office of advancement for Georgetown University Medical Center. Emma focuses much of her time on raising money for research in the areas of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s and Lewy Body Dementia, as well as global health initiatives at the university. Alex Eubanks Saleeby is enjoying her time living in Raleigh with her new husband, Robb. They were married on May 29, 2023. She is coming up on her fourth year working at Cisco in cloud security sales and was looking forward to married life. Bailey Ham lives in Washington, D.C., where she runs the summer camp division of The Headfirst Companies. In her free time, Bailey joined a sailing club and has been volunteering to teach members of the club to sail on the Potomac River. Thank you to all the Saints who sent in updates this year! We cannot wait to see all the exciting next steps in all our lives! Kayla and Hayley

2016

Alex Nolley Gruninger ’16 Alex Nolley married Grayson Gruninger on April 1, 2023. The wedding was held at River Dunes in Oriental, North Carolina, and was attended by several of her fellow Saint Mary’s classmates.

Allie Swanson is working on the federal affairs team for the Southern Environmental Law Center and lives in Washington, D.C. Mary Alex Edminston will begin her master’s in business administration at Wake Forest University’s Charlotte campus this fall. She was named the 2022 emerging leader for the Charlotte chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Ruthie Brady works for the Beyond Collection, a luxury hospitality group, and is living in Raleigh. After graduating from N.C. State in 2020, Mary Claire Brewer earned a degree in diagnostic medical sonography at Wake Tech and accepted a job as a sonographer at Wake Med. Alex

2017

Sophia Abatangelo ’17 The six-year mark from graduation brings accolades, moves, and life changes for the class of 2017. I moved to New York City in July of 2022 with my same job as a software engineer at a fintech startup. One of the sweetest parts of living in the city is never knowing which Saint you’ll bump into on the subway or street. When Lilah Wilfong and I can catch Lindsey Schneider away from her medical school studies, we laugh as if we are back at track practice in the Quad. I also eagerly await Grace Battle Thompson ’18 moving to the city this summer.

It is always a privilege, as a friend and secretary, to cheer on my classmates across the country!

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Left to right, front row: Mary Ann Borden ’18, Suiter Ragland ’18, Beverly Watson ’18, Lizzy Crumpton ’18. Second row: Lilly Parker ’18, Frances Anderson ’18, Abby Harris ’18, Margaret Dixon ’18. Third row: MariKatherine Ambro ’18, Grace-Anna Glenn ’18, Lindley Spears ’18, Sarah Elizabeth Norris ’18, Lucy Glover ’18, Pell Williamson ’18

Now, for the news beyond New York City. In 2021, Bailey Griffin earned a bachelor’s in political science and environmental studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, graduating in the top 20 percent of her class. Following her graduation, she started working full time as a communications associate for the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis. Bailey lives in Denver after moving from Madison last August. A fellow Saint in Denver is Hope Voelkel, who moved from Greenville, North Carolina, last May after graduating from East Carolina University with her master’s in speech language pathology. She recently completed her full-time clinical rotation, working with children in a private practice, and has begun her first full-time job in the home health setting, treating kids in the comfort of their own homes. “I love keeping up with my Saint Mary’s friends and my door is always open for a visit to the beautiful state of Colorado in the summer or winter!” writes Hope.

Mackenzie Logan is working as a process engineer at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. Also residing in Texas is Ashton Vermillion, working in Austin as an Oracle account manager for higher education in the West Coast. She loves her job and the view from the office, which overlooks the lake. Ashton was looking forward to another warm Texas summer of paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake and a special visit from her Saint Mary’s best friends. She says she is “so pumped to explore the city and show them all my favorite spots in Austin that make it feel like home!” Since last August, Mary Ashburn Mann has been “living the dream” in California’s Central Coast, blending textiles into the virtual reality realm after graduating from N.C. State with a master’s in textiles in December 2022. Of the West Coast, she says, “It has been a great experience and a lovely place to live.” She was looking forward to SMS friends visiting.

Blair Poirer has spent two years living in Nashville, Tennessee, and recently found her way into the music scene, working for a record label, Warner Music Nashville. She’s been at Warner since August 2022 and couldn’t be happier working in country music and meeting people in the industry.

She spends most of her nights and weekends at shows around town, and at an occasional honky tonk, of course. She enjoys catching up with her

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beloved SMS classmates, including Catherine Langston, who recently moved to town. Chicagoite Hannah Ueland continues to work at Bain & Company as an associate consultant. On the weekends, she loves going to the Green Street Farmers market, walking on the lake path, and trying new restaurants across the city. She would love to connect with other Saints in the area! Sophia

2018

Erika Reiger ’18 The Class of 2018, the great one eight, celebrated our first reunion and remains the same fun-loving and tight-knit group that I remember graduating with five years ago. My name is Erika Reiger and I am the C/O 2018 class secretary. I have loved having another reason to keep in touch with everyone for the past five years. It really rings true that we have changed but are still the same. I graduated from The George Washington University last spring and decided to stay in Washington to pursue a Master of Health Administration where I have an expected graduation date of 2025. I have worked this summer as an administrative intern while figuring out my path for my fellowship year of my graduate program. I have been living in Georgetown with my roommate, and one of my friends from SMS, Kennon Later, who moved here after graduating Wake Forest University last spring. She is working on Capitol Hill in the House of Representatives for Representative Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin. Lauren McClaskey is handling marketing and communications for a machine manufacturing company in Lynchburg, Virginia. Although she was unfortunately unable to make it to reunion weekend, she was able to travel with the company to be part of a large trade show in Germany. She speaks often about all the travel opportunities she has with them while she gets to do something we all know she loves. I saw some of Virginia Barnes artwork on social media a few weeks ago and am so grateful I had another reason to reach out to ask what she is up to! She just graduated from Appalachian State University with a BFA in studio art and is going to Spain this upcoming

semester to teach English with the NALCAP program. I also heard from another creatively inclined classmate of ours, Clare Gelber, who graduated last May with a BFA from Savannah College of Art and Design. Since graduating, she has been working as a video editor on various exciting projects. We were bummed we didn’t get to see Samantha Woolard this reunion as it was her last weekend of undergrad. The following weekend, she graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with bachelor’s in international relations and global studies, with special honors, and German, with honors. In the fall, she will continue her education at the University of Oxford, working towards an M.Phil. in international relations. In the meantime, she is working as an intern at the United Nations Foundation, promoting the U.N.’s sustainable development goals. While I was in town for the reunion, it was so wonderful staying with Ella Lewis and Isabella Marroquin! Ella is living in Tallahassee, Florida, and is working for a local residential developer as their office manager and permitting specialist. She is involved with the Junior League of Tallahassee and helps out with her parents’ local men’s clothing business, Southern Compass Outfitters. She was happy to be back on campus this spring for our fifth reunion! Isabella currently attends Texas State University in its combined undergraduate and graduate program for social work. I ran into Beverly Watson a few weeks before reunion weekend, where she couldn’t have spoken more highly about her graduate program. She just wrapped up her first year pursuing a Master of Science in nutrition sciences at East Carolina University. She was accepted into a dietetic internship for this upcoming year, which is how she will finish out her degree and will be hopefully moving to Atlanta afterwards. Atlanta is where Mary Hunter Russell ended up after graduating UNC-Chapel Hill last spring. She is currently working at a boutique consulting firm in the city. We are so excited to hear of some of our classmates staying close in the same cities! Lizzy Crumpton just finished up her first year of post-grad in Charlotte, where she moved last May after graduating from UNC-Chapel Hill. Soon after graduation, she began working for the Carolina Panthers in their corporate partnerships department. She loved every minute of it. She is so grateful that she was able to go to our reunion and the opportunity to catch up with everyone who attended! Lindley Spears also finished up her first year of adulthood in Charlotte, where she moved following her graduation from N.C. State University in May 2022. She is enjoying the working world, meeting new people and traveling to new places! She attended the reunion and said how much she loved reminiscing on the good old days at SMS. Pell Williamson has been in Charlotte as well, working as a medical scribe for a pediatrician. She plans to apply to PA school next spring. We have a few classmates who are still in Raleigh. GraceAnna Glenn started her Master of Physiology at N.C. State University after graduating from UNC-Chapel Hill last spring. She is set and excited to graduate this December. Frances

Anderson lives in Raleigh, working a new job as a marketing coordinator for Capital Associates.

She loved seeing everyone at the reunion and is so happy to be back in the same city as Saint Mary’s. Charlotte Crouse just graduated with a B.S. in polymer and color chemistry with a concentration in medical sciences from the College of Textiles at N.C. State. She has begun searching for a job as a cosmetics chemist.

Annabel Bloom is about to start her second year as a MedServe Fellow, an AmeriCorps program, at UNC Family Medicine. She will be applying to medical school this summer. Margaret Dixon graduated from Clemson University last May and is working at Bayleaf Veterinary Hospital in town. In Wilmington, Sloane Norton is nannying for a three-year-old boy and an infant girl. She graduated in May from High Point University with her master’s in elementary education.

Virginia Laurie lives near the beach with her cat, Pumpkin. She’s pursuing a master’s degree in fine arts in creative writing with a concentration on poetry, while teaching undergraduate courses at UNC-W. Caroline Balderson graduated from East Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in special education, adaptive curriculum, and has moved back home for the time being as well. Saints out West! Mary Ann Borden had an exciting change of pace as she moved to Denver, Colorado, after graduating last year. She pivoted to a full-time job as a credit analyst at ANB Bank.

Suiter Ragland moved to Wyoming last year after graduating from N.C. State and has been working for an interior designer based out of Raleigh as a liaison for her clients in Jackson Hole. Lucy Glover and Amelia Anne Marsh are both currently taking their CPA exams whilst pursuing their master’s in accountancy at Clemson, with an expected graduation in August. Lucy will be working at EY as an audit professional in Charlotte, and was so grateful that she could squeeze in reunion weekend amidst her rigorous study schedule. Amelia Anne is planning to move to New York City to start her career, which is also where Grace Battle Thompson was headed! Grace Battle just graduated from Carolina with a double major in journalism and political science and is moving to New York City to work as a content and tour manager for two funny comedians, Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo. They will be joining Abby Harris in the Big Apple. She is currently working in the design office of Kohl’s as a production specialist for the brand LC by Lauren Conrad. Hearing back from my classmates is such a joy. I look forward to keeping up with everyone and seeing all the places we will go.

Until next alumnae update! Erica

2019

Lily Katherine Nuckolls ’19 Stephanie Prestage graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts in musical theatre and a minor in performing arts management and entrepreneurship, summa cum laude. She is working as a performer at the Mac-Haydn Theatre this summer and moving to New York City in the fall. Emma Cline graduated from the

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill last spring and will be starting law school at Duke in the fall. Ansley Adzema and Hannah Sherman also graduated from UNC this past spring. Carter Wray Simpson graduated from Campbell University’s Lundy Fetterman School of Business with a bachelor of arts degree in both marketing and management. Janie Jackson graduated from the University of Georgia in May with a bachelor’s in social work. After graduation, she planned to move back to North Carolina and will be attending UNC-Chapel Hill for her master’s in social work. Josie DeRonja wrote, “I’ve just graduated from Georgia Tech with a materials science and engineering degree. I’m moving up to the D.C. area in July to work for L3Harris as an engineer on their microelectronics team.

I’m traveling around Europe this summer and a highlight has been a week in Greece with Emma Cline.” Lydia Thompson graduated from N.C. State and accepted a job as a junior designer for Betsy Anderson Interiors in Raleigh. Grayson Smith wrote, “I just got an internship with North Carolina Outward Bound and I’m super excited about it! If it wasn’t for the trip our freshman year, I wouldn’t have ever known about NCOBS. It’s been my dream to work there since then and it’s finally happening, which is pretty cool!”

Best, Lily Katherine

2020

Kate Eagles ’20 It has been an exciting year for the Class of 2020! From colleges to jobs and study abroad experiences, the women of this amazing class have become incredible citizens of the world and are living life to the fullest.

Margaret Painter, Gwyn Jones, Frances Williams, Elizabeth Rucker, Sally Sandridge, Eleanor Williams, Kate Eagles, and Martha Luck Johnston just returned home from an amazing semester studying abroad in Florence, Italy. They loved being able to reconnect in the beautiful city of Florence! Forbes Weaver was teaching seventhgrade writing in New York City this summer for Breakthrough New York, a Teach for America partner organization. Anna Carlyle Spears still enjoys living in Raleigh and is looking forward to senior year at N.C. State University. This summer, she worked in both Raleigh and Atlantic Beach, with plans to travel to Japan before returning to school. Lizzy Toms was working a tax accounting internship in N.Y.C. with BDO this summer and will be participating in semester at sea’s fall 2023 voyage to study abroad. Elizabeth Smith recently had a piece in the 2023 Young Contemporaries art show at Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston, which ended up winning best photograph. She studied abroad for the month of June to take two art classes (photography and watercolor) in Rome! Eleanor Williams is a junior at UNCChapel Hill, majoring in journalism with business and entrepreneurship minors. She is a member of Chi Omega and was working for Moondance this summer. Kate

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2021

Katy Butler Thompson ’21 Katy Thompson is attending George Washington University and still plays tennis with her doubles partner from the SMS tennis team, Paige Fisher, who is attending Howard University and also living in D.C. Katy was staying in D.C. for the summer, interning for Royal Bank of Canada. Lilly Johnson, on the other hand, is preparing to embark on an exciting journey at Central Saint Martins in London, renowned for its distinction as one of the world’s most exclusive top fashion schools. Saylah Rogers, has been chosen to serve as the president of Phi Alpha Delta at North Carolina A&T. Kathryn Brody is currently studying abroad in the Czech Republic while also contributing her writing talent to Penn State’s sports teams. Jane Caroline Minchew is serving as the outreach officer of the sailing team at N.C. State, where she also holds the position of coordinator for SAISA women’s sailing. Recently, she represented N.C. State at the national sailing competition. Lucy Sigmon, another student at N.C. State, rushed Alpha Delta Pi as a freshman and is pursuing fashion and textiles management in the esteemed Wilson College of Textiles. Lucy was eagerly looking forward to her summer abroad in Florence, Italy. Joyner Rascoe has exciting plans to study abroad in Australia. She is an Alpha Delta Pi at N.C. State. Sims Roberson planned to dedicate her summer to working with the Boys and Girls Club in Nantucket, Massachusetts. Caroline Koonce secured an internship opportunity at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. Hayden Savery was headed to New York City to intern with Zenith Media. Katy Butler

2022

Rebekah Elam ’22 Mills Austin joined the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority at the University of Georgia. She lived in Charleston, South Carolina, this summer with Caroline Garrison. Sofia Cimballa had an amazing first year at Davidson College. Lizzie Cox joined the Alpha Delta Pi sorority at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She also worked as an SIC and head lifeguard and aquatics this summer at Camp Seafarer. Hadley Crawford joined the Alpha Delta Pi sorority at East Carolina University. Emily Deronja joined the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority at the University of Georgia. Cooper Fabrizio joined the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority at the University of Alabama. Lily Finkelstein joined the Kappa Delta sorority

at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was working as a patient sitter at the UNC Hospital this summer. Caroline Garrison joined the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority at the University of Georgia. She is living in Charleston, S.C., with Mills Austin. Kruesi Griffin joined the Tri Delta Sorority at Clemson University. She was working as a counselor at Camp Illahee this summer. Mary Hauser joined the Sigma Kappa sorority at North Carolina State University. Francie Hogshead joined the Tri Delta sorority at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She also lived in Charleston this summer. Coco Jones joined the Chi Omega sorority at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She had a paid internship with Plexus Capital this summer. Sara Stockton had a great first year at Washington and Lee. She was inducted into the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society for freshman and joined Pi Beta Phi sorority. This summer, she was back at Camp Seafarer, working as a counselor during the first session. Ainsley Parkerson joined Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority at the University of Virginia. This summer, she was getting her EMT certification and taking summer classes. Mimi Peterson joined Tri Delta sorority at Wake Forest University. Dimney Rideout joined Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority at the University of Virginia. She attended the London School of Economics this summer. Caroline Settle joined Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority at Baylor University. Macy Seymour joined Alpha Delta Pi sorority at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Lucy Smith was working at a ranch in Cody, Wyoming, this summer, along with an internship with H Street Digital. Ciara Wingfield joined Alpha Phi sorority at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Rebekah Elam joined Chi Omega sorority at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was attending the London School of Economics this summer. Many of the members of the class of 2022 returned to Saint Mary’s for the class of 2023 graduation. We enjoyed catching up with each other and celebrating our friends and the newest Saint Mary’s alumnae! Rebekah

SAINT MARY’S PROUD As part of a legacy of generations of women who have benefitted from a Saint Mary’s experience and gone on to live lives of purpose and intention, Saint Mary’s alumnae stand tall and proud from coast to coast and continent to continent. Here are some ways you can show your pride for your alma mater and inspire others about Saint Mary’s: • Include Saint Mary’s on your resume or whenever you are listing or discussing your education.

• Remember to wear that beautiful Saint Mary’s ring.

• Get some Saint Mary’s gear at our school store, shop1842, and wear it often.

• Send Saint Mary’s your news so we can share it with others. We love to hear about your personal and professional aspirations, achievements, and milestones.

• Mentor a Saint Mary’s student through an internship.

• Like/follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn • Keep the Alumnae Office apprised of your current contact information.

• Attend your Reunion Weekend.

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12 - 4 p.m.

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ALUMNAE

2023 Mazie Strickland Froelich ’51C Society Alumnae Awards Ann says she owes so much of her success in life and her career to her time at Saint Mary's, providing her with her friends for life, the confidence and ability to be agile, adapt, and lead.

Alleen Cater ’63HS ’65C is 2023 Outstanding Alumna Award Recipient Alleen Cater ’63HS ’65C lives into the motto "faithful friends and comrades sure," as a devoted alumna for the last 60 years. She has served Saint Mary’s on the Alumnae Council, as admissions recruiter, a regional host, fundraiser, and other roles. She made a commitment to become a Heritage Society member and has never been shy about sharing her love of her alma mater.

Sara Elizabeth Bell ’23, Ann Beland Brooks ’73C, Adam Holden

Ann Beland Brooks '73C is 2023 Outstanding Alumna Award Recipient If you ask Ann Beland Brooks ’73C what her fondest memories are of Saint Mary's, she will always tell you it is the friendships and camaraderie she shared with her classmates. After graduating from Saint Mary's, Ann attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. She worked in clinical nursing for eight years before transitioning into a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry working in sales and clinical research.

During her 25-year career in the pharmaceutical industry, she earned accolades and awards at the district, regional, and national level.

She has attended events both on campus and off, come to reunions and encouraged others to do so, and has hosted events in her home. She has assisted the alumnae office by attending fairs to recruit students, and she has recommended students for admission.

Her involvement was not simply on the committees listed, she singlehandedly hosted events, made calls to alumnae, and traveled to campus as a member of the Board of Visitors to support the efforts of her alma mater. She understood that it is not enough to talk about what we can do - she steps up and makes sure it happens. When the call came to start a new giving society to increase the commitment of the Annual Fund, she stepped forward to lead the Saints into the Forever Campaign by joining the Giving Circles.

Since retiring, Ann’s focus shifted to family, travel, and volunteering. She has worked with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and other organizations through Christ Church in Raleigh. Her passion for volunteering has combined with her love for Saint Mary's. She has also served on Saint Mary's 175th Celebration Gala Committee and planning committees for class reunions.

A member of the Heritage Society and a long-time supporter of the Annual Fund and Saint Mary’s Forever Campaign, she has attended events and represented alumnae at school functions. “Ann lives into the creed of sharing her time and talents,” says Julie Ricciardi, assistant head of school for institutional advancement. “She has been an amazing role model for our girls and a wonderful spokeswoman for our alumnae. This year, she celebrates her 50th reunion and has served with distinction as a member and chair of the Alumnae Council."

An award nomination letter for Ann stated: “Ann has worked tirelessly for our school and is the perfect Saint to receive this award. Ann encourages her classmates to share their time, talents, and treasures with the school, and she models the numerous ways to do so.”

Another nomination letter stated, “Over the last several years, I have witnessed Ann become engaged with the students, regale them with tales from her days on campus, and share beautiful insights on being an active and engaged alumna. I am so proud to know Ann and so grateful for the tireless work she contributes to ensuring all Saints, regardless of when they graduated, stay connected to our beloved alma mater.”

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Adam Holden, Alleen Cater ’63HS '65C, Emily Smith ’01

Originally from Anniston, Alabama, Alleen is a 1963 high school and 1965 junior college graduate of Saint Mary’s. A four-year girl, she was a boarding student and participated in the Dramatics Club, Glee Club, and was on the May Court. She later attended and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Living in her home state of Alabama, she worked in residential real estate and was one of the top real estate brokers in the Birmingham area. As a volunteer leader, Alleen’s devotion to Saint Mary’s is wellknown. So much so her fellow Alumnae Council members joked about her attendance at every Alumnae Council meeting - even though she lived in so far away. Even though she is in Alabama, her heart and her efforts remain close to 900 Hillsborough Street in Raleigh.

ALUMNAE BOOK CORNER Investing Your Way to a Happier You: How High Achieving Women Invest Their Money to Live a Meaningful Life

by Kim Newman Saunders '95C Financial planner and investment advisor Kim Newman Saunders ’95C has published a Kindle edition of her new book, Investing Your Way to a Happier You: How High Achieving Women Invest Their Money to Live a Meaningful Life. The book is an Amazon best-seller in six categories.

“We are living in a time when we have information coming at us from every direction,” says Saunders. “We want to make good decisions, but we don't always know how to sift through the information to create a plan. This is especially true when it comes to investing. Successful female attorneys and executives are on top of their game when it comes to most everything in life but not always as confident when it comes to investing. My goal is to educate them in a lighthearted but informative way about the important but sometimes overly complex topic of investing. My hope is to increase their confidence while giving them actionable steps to employ that, in the long run, will give them a more balanced happier life.”

Kim provides financial planning and investment solutions to individuals and businesses. Typically, Kim works with accomplished females and widows who all have the challenge of feeling overwhelmed when dealing with their finances and are not sure who to trust with their money. Conscientious and driven to help others, Kim is passionate about reducing all stress that her clients face pertaining to investing and their situation. She continues to receive feedback that she is good at explaining complex financial concepts in an easy-to-understand manner.

More specifically, Kim helps by assessing their individual goals and concerns around money and then creates and implements an investment strategy that aims to ensure lifelong financial stability. She works alongside her clients every step of the way until their financial goals are achieved. Kim’s commitment to being an excellent communicator and her straight forward and non-judgmental approach has earned her the privilege of helping many people with their money.

Kim graduated from Saint Mary’s in 1995 and from N.C. State University with a B.S. in business management. While at N.C. State, Kim was an intern for the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, A.G. Edwards, and PaineWebber.

Currently she holds Series 7 (Registered Representative) and Series 66 (Registered Investment Advisor) as well as Life and Health Insurance licenses. Kim currently serves on the board for S.H.E., a “Women in Business” group sponsored by the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce, and she also serves on the board for Rotary of Sumter, South Carolina.

The book is available on Amazon.

Caren Threshie Camp ’71HS pens autobiography Life Lessons of an American Woman Caren Threshie Camp ’71HS has published her first book in October 2022, an autobiography, called Life Lessons of an American Woman.

"I wrote this book to share life experiences that were difficult and yet rewarding, so that it might be easier for others who are facing similar challenges,” says Camp. “In this book, I touch upon the topics of family, careers, health, alcoholism, depression, and many more. I explain these topics in three parts, Finding Personal Power, Powering Through Problems, and Powering up for Health.”

The book design was created by Ellen Hamilton of Yellow Dot Designs, and the book was edited by Vera Pastore of Word Choreography.

The 143-page paperback book is available through Yellow Dot Publishing at yellowdotshop.com/products/life-lesson.

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ALUMNAE IN THE NEWS Velda Carter Hughes ’74C awarded The Order of the Palmetto Saint Mary’s alumna Velda Carter Hughes ’74C, owner and CEO of the Hughes Agency, a public relations firm in Greenville, South Carolina, was awarded the Order of the Palmetto by Gov. Henry McMaster at a TD SYNNEX Share the Magic event held Dec. 15, 2022.

The Order of the Palmetto, established in 1971 by Gov. John West, is South Carolina’s highest civilian honor awarded to the state’s citizens for extraordinary lifetime service and achievements of national or statewide significance.

Hughes was given the award in recognition of her involvement and accomplishments with South Carolina’s business and nonprofit sectors, such as serving as TD SYNNEX Share the Magic fundraising committee chair and helping to launch Clemson University’s Men of Color National Summit, as well as her passion for children and families, diversity, and the underserved.

Hughes has also spearheaded or assisted in a variety of fundraising campaigns, including • raising nearly $20 million to help build Unity Park in downtown Greenville; and • raising $14 million to build The Children’s Museum of the Upstate.

Hughes Agency Owner and CEO Velda Carter Hughes ’74C receives the Order of the Palmetto from South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster. (Photo by Bill Fox)

“I want to say thank you to all of y’all,” said Hughes. “Everything I have ever worked on has been a joy. No one person does anything; it’s a team. Our father taught us that you don’t just live a life, you give as much as you can, and I have tried to do that. For the past 39 years, It has been a joy to work with all my team members at the Hughes Agency. They mean the world to me, and they are why I have been able to do what I’ve been able to do.”

After Saint Mary’s, Hughes graduated from the University of North Carolina’s School of Journalism. Born into a newspaper family that once owned four newspapers in the Carolinas, she began her professional career at The Greenville News. She later became a partner in a public relations and events firm and has since enjoyed decades of experience in public relations, marketing, advertising, and special events. She started the Hughes Agency in 2001 and has grown it to become one of the leading firms of its kind in South Carolina.

“Velda pours her heart into things that help others,” said Gov. McMaster during the presentation. “She has impacted thousands of people throughout South Carolina by creating programs, championing organizations, and elevating others.”

This article was compiled from reports by Jeannie Putnam of the Greenville Journal and Nathaniel Cary of The Post and Courier.

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Caren Threshie Camp '71HS bequests scholarship assistance

By Brandon Wright

Before the age of 13, Caren Threshie Camp ’71HS moved 11 times.

An executive in the textile industry, her father’s career required frequent relocations. The family’s longest stay in one city was four years spent in High Point, North Carolina. When Caren was 14, her family moved to Old Greenwich, Connecticut. The transition was difficult. The life Caren knew in High Point, where girls wore dresses with Peter Pan collars and Pappagallo shoes and boys sported blazers and khakis, was far different from the war-torn, rebellious youth culture of the Northeast in the late 1960s. A letter from Kay Lambeth Brewer ’70HS, Caren’s best friend from High Point, encouraged Caren to join her at Saint Mary’s. Caren’s parents agreed and she enrolled.

Her Saint Mary’s experience was transformational. Caren recalls “I found my autonomy and independence. I flourished and did well academically and socially.” She received a merit-based scholarship, participated in student government, made Dean’s List, and was invited to join The Beacon. Other than Christmas, Caren spent long weekends and holidays with classmates from towns like Cortland, Virginia, and Windsor, North Carolina. Caren remembers, “There would be an article in someone’s hometown newspaper announcing that Caren Threshie visited the home of the Brooks family or the Worthington family. I made wonderful friends that I still have to this day.”

Caren recalls the care and encouragement she received from Dr. Frank Pisani and Martha Stoops. According to Caren, “Before Martha Stoops, history consisted of names and dates to memorize for a test. Professor Stoops brought history to life for me.” Caren’s appreciation for acting began when Nancy Stamey cast her as Miss Alma in Tennessee Williams’ Summer and Smoke. When she moved to New York, she continued taking acting classes. However, her all-business sensibilities led to a more practical career in fashion merchandizing. She enjoyed an eight-year stint at Estee Lauder. In 2001, Caren joined HelmsBriscoe, a global leader in the meeting planning industry. She is currently Senior Director of Global Accounts.

While living in New York, a happenstance meeting with Barbara Miller O’Herron ’70C at a Safeway grocery store changed Caren’s life. Barbara arranged a blind date for Caren who knew immediately she would marry John Madison Camp III. They have two children. A graduate of Woodberry Forest School, an all boys’ school, John shares Caren’s commitment to single-sex education. Regarding her decision to include a bequest to Saint Mary’s that will one day provide scholarship assistance, Caren said, “Saint Mary’s means so much to me. John and I have done very well in our careers and lives. I feel fortunate to have assets that can benefit Saint Mary’s when John and I no longer need them. I want my future gift to help Saint Mary’s thrive.”

A former member of the school’s board of trustees, Caren says, “I loved my time as a trustee. My 35 years of business, sales and marketing, and meeting planning have made me realize my contributions are valuable.“ Caren discusses the importance of leadership and service in her recently published book, Life Lessons of an American Women. www.carencamp.com/life-lessons “Every time I come to see my son who lives in Raleigh, I drive down Hillsborough Street just to see Saint Mary’s – to know she is still there,” says Caren.

Alumnae who share Caren’s love for Saint Mary’s are invited to include the school in their estate and wealth succession plan. Contact Lauren Gerber, Director of the Annual Fund, at 919-424-4007 or lgerber@sms.edu for more information.

900 Hillsborough Street Raleigh, NC 27603–1689

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Marshals CC Chiavetta ’23 and Betsy Boyd ’23 welcome guests at the front door of Smedes Hall.

May 2023

Photo by Mary Virginia Swain ’77C