a m ag a z i n e for a lu m n i a n d f r i e n d s of s a s . fa l l 2 02 0
Rising to the Challenge
FROM the MISSION of ST. ANDREW’S-SEWANEE SCHOOL:
“to be an inclusive community in which the Episcopal heritage is central” In previous years at SAS, chapel had been one of my favorite ways to be in community with everyone, so when Mother Short asked me to help with running our virtual set-up, I was more than happy to join. Learning how to run sound and slides has been fun, and I’m glad I can keep participating in the chapel program, even if we aren’t together in person. Archie Clarkson ’21 Senior boarding student from Arden, N.C.
2 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Fall 2019 2020
Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 3
From the Head of School St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School Magazine
More than Surviving
A
few years ago, I was given a fascinating little book, The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook. It is filled with information like: how to escape from quicksand, how to jump “safely” from a moving car, and how to wrestle an alligator. There are 40 chapters filled with survival tips, and the preface begins with the following: “…You never really know what curves life will throw at you, what is lurking around the corner, what is hovering above, what is swimming beneath the surface.” You got that right. Unfortunately, there is not a chapter on Karl Sjolund masks up to collect medical waste during surviving a pandemic. Rather, this an early round of community SARS-CoV-2 testing. year is more like the poster I saw recently that said, “If 2020 were a math problem: You’re going down a river at 2 MPH and your canoe loses a wheel... How much pancake mix would you need to re-shingle your roof?” That about sums it up! This has been a challenging year, but St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School continues to do great things. We can do these great things because we have great people. When the virus forced us online back in the spring, our faculty answered the call. After only three days of preparation, we were able to move everything to a virtual format, and then carry on with the second half of that semester efficiently and effectively. We then spent the summer preparing for a fall semester unlike any other. We were determined to open school in-person, but we knew that we could wind up moving back online at any point. Our teachers spent weeks in professional development programs learning how to teach in a hybrid mode — with some students in-person while others are online — and to make these shifts back and forth whenever necessary. The protocols we have put in place are working thus far, but even if our canoe loses a wheel, we have done our homework, and we know how much pancake mix we’ll need to re-shingle the roof!
Karl J. Sjolund Head of School
4 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Fall 2020
Published once a year by St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School Editor Sherri Bergman Design Aaron Welch, Big A Marketing Editorial Assistant David Andrews Head of School Karl J. Sjolund Director of Admission Derek Perkins Director of Advancement Lesley Cole Alumni Relations Coordinator Kira Tharp ’12 Office of Communications and Marketing Sherri Bergman, Director 290 Quintard Road Sewanee, Tennessee 37375-3000 Phone: 931.598.5651 Email: sbergman@sasweb.org Special Thanks to Contributors / Photographers: Mary Blount, Ashley Close, Lizzie Duncan StA ’76, David Prehn, Jasmine Render ’94,Tonya Wockasen ’94 School Mission Statement To be an inclusive Christian community in which the Episcopal heritage is central; to provide superior preparation for college; to provide educational opportunities for those students for whom such experiences might not otherwise be available; and to bring all members of the community to a richer spiritual, intellectual, social, physical, and aesthetic awareness, so that they might lead lives of honor and loving service to God and others. On the Cover Ramsey's Rest is one of several spaces on campus in demand for outdoor classes, Here, Iliana Pate ,22 enjoys British Literature.
Fall 2020
St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School Magazine
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FEATURES
St.Andrew’s Sewanee
Faculty 11 New & Staff
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INVEST IN A CHILD.
Your financial support helps to put SAS in reach of students for whom an outstanding education in a supportive and loving environment might not otherwise be available.
14 Lower Tuition
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in the 16 Ubuntu Time of COVID
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SHOW YOUR MOUNTAIN PRIDE.
22 Changing Keys
The SAS School Store offers a wide variety of t-shirts, hoodies, face coverings, camp chairs, mugs, blankets, and more. Contact eduncan@sasweb.org for more information.
ALUMNI
27 Class Notes
What's stopping us? ANSWER ON PAGE 10
30 Alumni Activities
FROM the 2020 VALEDICTORY ADDRESS: (A purpose) is the most valuable thing that this academically, culturally, and spiritually rich community has given to me … Purpose is valuable because it is ‘why to think’. It is the reason to use the skills you’ve sharpened here. Once you have a purpose, you become critically aware that every step you take is a step towards the future. A step farther into the convoluted, dimly-lit, high-walled labyrinth of the world beyond high school. And you realize that somewhere distant within that maze is the goal. Gabriel Pongdee ’20 Valedictorian, pictured below with his parents, Rongson and Rosie
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Join the Conversation. True story: my first banjo is named Annie after the SAS senior tradition. —Isaac Arnold ’04 In response to an announcement that no one on campus had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 after two rounds of testing: Congratulations! I’m so proud to see the vigilance and dedication to protecting students, faculty and staff is a success. Go Mountain Lions! —Mark Kelly StA ’73 In response to a photo of this year’s International Flag Ceremony: I still remember doing the Flag Ceremony back in 2011. #GoSpain —Carlos Alcázar ’12 In response to a Frogmore Stew feast provided to our boarding students by current parents Nicki and Harry Root ’87: It was almost as awesome as their two kids! —Tracy Randolph, faculty member
In response to video of a recent weekend trip to Greeter Falls: I am considering a “post grad” year at SAS. —Kate Sheeler StA ’81 In response to photos of students conducting research in the wetlands: My sweet Emma wearing the waders like a champ. I love that they are outside getting their hands dirty! —Tonya Ladd Wockasen ’94 In response to a photo of the new recording studio (see p. 18-19): Man I was at SAS at the wrong time. Lmk when the album drops! —Eliza Gooding ’16
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Stay up-to-date on the latest events: www.sasweb.org/calendar
September 24-27
Upper School & Boarding Family Weekend, Virtual
October 23-25
SAS Players Present Something Wicked This Way Comes
November 10
Chattanooga Alumni & Friends Event
November 12
Nashville Alumni & Friends Event
December 24
Christmas Eve Eucharist
January 14
The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration
February 8-12 Winterim
April 22
Earth Day Activities
April 23-25
SAS Players Present Little Women
May 15-16
Commencement Weekend
June 4-6
Alumni Weekend
Campus News
Carlos and Johnson Honored with Named Chairs
Teachers Malia Carlos ’87 and Neal Johnson have been honored with named chairs at St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School. Carlos, who was named to the Fort Chair in Writing, returned to SAS in 2013 as Learning Resources Coordinator. She soon joined the English department and has since served as department chair and directed the SAS Summer Creative Writing Camp. She was recently named co-chair of the humanities department. In addition to teaching, Carlos advises the school’s Be the Change Club and is a member of the Cum Laude Society. She is involved in numerous creative community endeavors including the Sewanee Praise Gospel Choir and Sewanee Spoken Word. A model of lifelong learning, Carlos holds an MFA from New England College, an MEd from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and a BA from Tufts University, and has participated in numerous theater and art workshops. The Fort Chair was established in 1995 in appreciation of a major gift from Dudley Clark Fort, Sr., in honor of his daughter-in-law, Priscilla Carter Fort. Past recipients include Susan Core, Phil White, Mark Brunton, Tom Gladstone, Tracy Randolph, and Geoffrey Smith. Mathematics department chair, Neal Johnson, was named to the Cissy Patterson Chair in Mathematics. Johnson joined the faculty in 2018. A residential faculty member, he has also served as track and field, cross country, football, and basketball coach. A 2015 graduate
of the University of the South, Johnson was previously Assistant Director of Annual Giving at the university. The Cissy Patterson Chair was established in 1986 at the urging of Frank Waldrop, a Trustee of the Cissy Patterson Trust. Past recipients include Doug Burns, Margot Burns, Liz QuinnStine, Cameron Sisson, Allison Paterson, Patty Milner, Sarah Carlos, and Jerry White. Interested in continuing the tradition of philanthropic support for education at St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School? Contact Director of Advancement Lesley Cole (lcole@saweb.org).
new students who were seeking an inperson experience with strict safety precautions and the promise of a robust and challenging online academic experience if it should become necessary. In the event that classes have to go back online, boarding students will have the option to remain in residence. The COVID-19 Protocols can be found at www.sasweb.org/about/covid.
Drawing a Map to Retirement
Re-Opening Campus In August, SAS resumed in-person community life, classes, and afternoon programs after a four-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the summer, a team of 24 administrators, faculty, and staff met to develop a robust plan which includes community-wide SARS-CoV-2 testing, face coverings, and physical distancing. Director of College Counseling Dan Monahan was tapped to direct the efforts as COVID Coordinator. An adjustment to the academic calendar plans for classes to go back online following the Thanksgiving break with a return to campus in January. SAS parents overwhelmingly indicated satisfaction with the school’s distance learning in the spring, and teachers have undergone additional training in the delivery of online learning this summer. This success attracted many
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When students returned to classes this fall, for the first time in 26 years, teacher Burki Gladstone was not here to welcome them. Burki and her husband, Tom Gladstone, joined the SAS community as residential faculty members in 1994, Burki in history and ceramics and Tom in English. Over the years, Burki taught history, clay, and Mind Body Exercise and served as History and Art Department Chair, Gallery Director, 10th Grade Lead Sponsor, Global and Local Outreach faculty sponsor, and residential parent. She and Tom raised two children on the SAS campus, Max ’02 and Hallie ’04, who have both brought pride to their alma mater, Max as a renowned fantasy writer and Hallie who has followed her parents’ path and serves as dorm faculty at Indian Springs School. Burki and Tom retired to nearby Monteagle. “Over the years, Burki introduced the world, the joy of creating, and mindfulness to generations of SAS students,” said Head of School Karl Sjolund. “Her world history courses and (in)famous map drawing expectations provided SAS stu-
dents with perspectives and knowledge that served them well as they continued their studies. Her leadership of our pottery curriculum in recent years helped to maintain the outstanding reputation of this beloved program.” More than a few of Burki’s former students have continued to create pottery both for pleasure and profit. “Burki’s work at SAS is a testament to how a dedicated and talented teacher can enrich their students’ lives,” added Sjolund
Arabic, economics, German, chemistry, history, and politics. Although COVID-19 has forced this interaction online, this semester 17 students are taking 15 classes, including Creative Writing Poetry, Principles of Chemistry, Atlantic Britons, World Politics, Literature and Composition, Hispanic Literature, Asian Religions, Molecular Biology, Macroeconomics, Caesar, French, German, and Chinese.
The Hills Were Alive
And Closing the Books
Ooh, They Did It Again! The St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School Ethics Bowl Team won their second consecutive state championship in January in Knoxville, Tenn. Team members included Sarah Beth Hobby ’20, Gabriel Pongdee ’20, Erin Mattingly ’22, Jayla McLaurin ’20, Justine Rogers ’21, and alternate Mac Croom ’22. The team is coached by Dean of Students Geoffrey Smith. Sadly, the national championship, which was set to take place at UNC-Chapel Hill in April, was cancelled due to the pandemic. The National High School Ethics Bowl (NHSEB) promotes respectful, supportive, and in-depth discussion of ethics among high school students. As of 2019, the program involved over 4,000 students from over 500 teams representing 327 schools.
In February, the SAS Players wowed audiences with a community production of The Sound of Music. The cast and crew of 44 included SAS and Sewanee Elementary School students, SAS faculty members, and one SAS parent, Aaron Bridgers-Carlos ’83, who returned to the SAS stage after a 37-year hiatus. The musical was directed by theater director Chelsea Padro and musical director J.R. Ankney.
SAS also bid adieu to Chief Financial Officer Sarah Lodge who kept the business of SAS going for 15 years so that the rest of the faculty and staff could focus on the student experience. In her final message to her colleagues, Lodge wrote, “(My first year) our first sixth graders matriculated. Bill Wade was Head of School. Claire Reishman and George Chamberlain were Dean of Academics and Dean of Students, respectively. The Father Flye house was situated where McCrory Hall would soon be built. Wade Hall did not exist; the old science labs were where the middle school classrooms are now. The infirmary, as it was known then, had just moved from the third floor of Langford. I have loved, learned, and laughed at SAS. Thank you for a great run.” Thank YOU, Sarah.
For Free and For Credit The opportunity for outstanding juniors and seniors to take college courses for credit at the University of the South is one of the many perks of being neighbors to an outstanding (and generous) liberal arts college. In Spring 2020, eleven SAS students enrolled in college courses in psychology, mathematics,
The More We Get Together SAS welcomed two outstanding guest speakers during the spring semester. Ketch Secor, lead singer of Old Crow Medicine Show and founder of the Episcopal School of Nashville, joined us for Winterim and gave a few of our guitar students the thrill of a lifetime as they joined him to play on stage. The Rt. Rev. Robert C. Wright, Bishop of the Diocese of Atlanta, joined us as Bishop Reynolds Forum speaker and spoke to a community audience and the student body on “Becoming Beloved Community,” a reference to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of a society based on justice, equal opportunity, and love of one’s fellow human beings. His message focused on the importance of acknowledging past sins if we want to move forward.
Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 9
Campus News
Welcoming Sewanee Dining
As of this year, meals at SAS, including lunches for the entire school community and breakfasts and dinners for the residential students and employees, are provided by Sewanee Dining, the university’s premier dining service, under the direction of Chef Manager Teri Phillips. “We are delighted to be able to provide our students with the consistently nutritious and inviting cuisine for which Chef Rick Wright and his crew are known,” said SAS CFOO Jennifer Dillon. “Meals are such an important contributor to our sense of community, and we are pleased to have this local option to meet our needs.”
SAS’s WMTN-LP Is Streaming St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School’s radio station is now streaming on the web in addition to broadcasting to a 10-mile radius beyond the SAS campus. FM 103.1, WMTN-LP, “The Mountain” is the gift of Bud Walters SMA ’59. The station had its first broadcast on April 24, 2004. By helping to provide this opportunity to St. Andrew’s-Sewanee students, it is Bud’s hope to spark student interest in the broadcast field. For more information, contact Station Manager Elizabeth Duncan (eduncan@sasweb.org). Streaming can be accessed at tux-support.com:9320.
SAS 2020 Grads Choose Colleges From Coast-to-Coast
In what was the most unusual college admissions season of our lifetimes, the 51 members of the Class of 2020 received 203 offers of admission. “The class of 2020 impressed me from the start,” said Director of College Counseling Dan Monahan. “When we started working together in their junior year, these students knew what they wanted. Having to choose a college in the midst of an unprecedented interna-
tional pandemic still didn’t shake them. In many ways, it strengthened their choices. These students picked the institutions that they know will be the best fit for them. They paid close attention to how the colleges corresponded with them through this and made their decisions to enroll. Their determination to stay positive and move forward will be remembered for years to come.”
QUIZ ANSWER Dr. Reynolds’s Science 6 class recently learned about inertia by using toy pick-up trucks and coins to recreate Galileo’s observations that an object in motion will remain in motion. Leaving us wondering, would the Italian physicist have been a Ford or a Chevy fan?
New Faculty and Staff
Haley A. Chelsvig Biology & Chemistry • Haley is an experienced science and outdoor education instructor with an interest in promoting leadership development, social justice, and environmental stewardship through experiential education. She graduated summa cum laude from Drake University with a degree in biology and psychology.
Jennifer Dillon ’82 Chief Financial & Operations Officer Jennifer is a seasoned accounting and operations executive. She was previously CFOO at the Highlands School in Birmingham. Prior to that, she was Director of Finance and Operations of the Congressional School in Falls Church, Va., and Powhatan School in Boyce, Va.
aylor Lee T Spanish & International Student Coordinator • Taylor was an English Language, Leadership, and Professional Skills Specialist with the U.S. Peace Corps in Coclé, Panama. He is a graduate of Washington & Lee University where he earned a B.A. in Global Politics.
Ashley Close Assistant Director of Admission • A career education administrator, Ashley holds a B.S. in Marketing of Higher Education, an M.S. in Education from Elmira College, and a Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA. She was previously a member of the admission teams at Curry College and Elmira College. She is a graduate of Kimball Union Academy, a boarding school in New Hampshire.
Dr. Lisa Garner School Mental Health Counselor • Lisa was formerly Director of Counseling at Holy Trinity High School in Chicago. Her clinical experience includes adolescent treatment planning and crisis intervention. Dr. Garner holds a BA in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a D. Pysch from Illinois School of Professional Psychology (Argosy University).
rian Mazur B Mathematics • Brian is as an experienced mathematics teacher having taught at Franklin County High School, Lakeview Centennial High School, Dallas CAN! Academy, and Horizon Science Academy. He is a graduate of Oberlin College’s Technology in Music and Related Arts program.
Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 11
Campus News
Jasmine “Jazz” Render ’14 Admission Counselor • Jazz is a graduate of the University of West Georgia with a major in Mass Communications. She received several awards for her work as a promotions director and an on-air personality for the university’s radio station. Since graduating, Jazz has been running her own freelance photography, graphic design, special events, and custom apparel business.
Thomas Simerville ’16 Father Flye Fellow • Thomas is a recent graduate in history from the University of the South, where he worked for the Office of Domain Management helping to maintain the university’s trails. He was formerly an SAS summer camp counselor helping students to enjoy caving, climbing, hiking, swimming, and rappelling on the Cumberland Plateau.
Paul Schutz IT Support Coordinator • Paul is an experienced problem-solver with extensive technical knowledge of computer systems, software platforms, and organizational workflow. He most recently served as the director of marketing for the continuing education unit of the School of Theology at the University of the South. He holds a BFA in Photography from New York University.
Margaret Wilson ’16 Farm Educator and Art • Margaret is a graduate of Warren Wilson College with a major in Psychology and minors in Art (Ceramics) and Expressive Arts Therapy. A world traveler, she managed gardens and worked at a vineyard in France, studied ceramics and art history in Tuscany and German in Germany, and spent the spring semester of her sophomore year in high school traveling around the world.
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Other recent transitions include Interim Dean of Students Geoffrey Smith moving into the more permanent role of Dean of Students, school nurse Melissa Gilliam assuming the title of Director of Health Clinic, history teacher and residential faculty member Chris Monahan taking on additional responsibilities as Residential Life Coordinator, Director of College Counseling Dan Monahan continuing in his role as COVID Coordinator, and School Store Manager Jana Barnett moving into the position of Academic Administrative Assistant. Lizzie Duncan StA ’76, who served for 17 years as Director of Alumni and Special Events, has relinquished her alumni duties to the Advancement Office to assume the role of Director of Auxiliary Programs and Special Events. In her new position, Lizzie is responsible for afterschool and summer program on the SAS campus, conference services, and school store operations. “I cannot begin to describe how amazing and awesome the past 17 years have been,” wrote Lizzie in a message that went to alumni in November 2019 when her transition was announced. “When I started in July 2002, I had no idea of the immense fulfillment this new career in alumni relations would provide. Nor how many friends – good friends – I would make in the process.”
Sports Highlights WINTER 2020 SWIMMING The varsity swim team had a historic season, setting 12 school records and sending five swimmers to the Tennessee State High School Swimming and Diving Championships: Aidan Smith ’20, Porter Neubauer ’21, Zolon Knoll ’21, Will Hanger ’22, and AJ Clements ’23. The SAS team finished 16th overall out of 46 mens’ teams at the meet. Will, Porter, Aidan, and Zolon took 6th place in the 200-yard Free Relay and set a new school record. Will finished 8th overall in the 100-yard Breaststroke setting a new school record and qualifying for the National Swim Coaches’ Association Junior Nationals Meet. Will also finished 17th in the 50-yard Freestyle. Hangar Named All-Midstate Sophomore swimmer Will Hanger was named to the 2020 Tennessean AllMidstate high school boys swimming team. In addition to his outstanding performance at the state swim meet, Will currently holds the school record in the 50 Breaststroke and 100 Breaststroke and is a member of three record-holding relay teams. The middle school swim team finished an exceptional season with a total of 25 broken records and a 4-0 regular season record. MTHSSA State Championship Qualifiers included Sienna Barry ’25, Elliott Benson ’24, Enzo Fath ’24, Jackson Frazier ’24, Loulie Frazier ’25, Jack Hale ’25, Sara Knight ’24, Kiran Malde ’26, Maya Mauzy ’25, Reese Michaels ’24, Caroline Neubauer ’26, Elisabeth Perkins ’25, Sarah Russell Roberson ’26, Madison Rogers ’24, Maddie Van de Ven ’26, Toby Van de Ven ’25, and Vie Virkhaus ’26. The boys’ team finished in 10th place at the state championships and the girls finished in 21st place. The following swimmers placed at the state championship: Jackson: 100 Breaststroke (1st), 100 Freestyle (3rd); Enzo: 500 Freestyle (5th), 200 Freestyle (8th); Loulie: 100 Backstroke (14th); and Jackson, Enzo, Kiran, and Toby: 400 Free Relay (6th), 200 Medley Relay (10th).
WRESTLING The varsity girls’ wrestling team had an outstanding season. Verena Pate ’23 finished 2nd in the state and Iliana Pate ’22 finished 4th in their respective weight classes. Both wrestlers were named to the Tennessee All-State Wrestling Team. Iliana, Verena, and teammates, Charlie Barron ‘22, Riley Burnette ‘22, and Jiaying Yang ‘20 were named Scholar AllAmericans by the National Wrestling Coaches Association. The girls’ team finished in 12th place at the 2020 TSSAA Girls West Wrestling Regional. Iliana finished 3rd in the regional tournament. Verena advanced through each round with wins by pin, finishing in overtime for 1st place. Verena’s championship match was named Most Outstanding Match of the tournament. Hadlee Hale ’24 and Melanie Val ’24 competed and advanced in the regional tournament, the first SAS 8th graders to compete in a regional tournament. Alvaro Parages-Taberna ’23 captured 1st place at the JV State Tournament winning each of his matches by pin. Xavier Thompson ’21 took 3rd place in the JV tournament. BASKETBALL Varsity basketball player Nathan King ’21 was named to the All-District Team. The middle school boys’ basketball team finished their season 13-3, as runner-up in the Big 8 Conference, and first in the Big 8 Tournament. Robbie Johnston ’25, Cecil Rodgers ’24, and Raulston Barnett ’24, were named to the All-Tournament team. Ethan Allen ’24 was named Tournament MVP.
Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 13
SAS Rolls Out Lower Boarding Tuition Prices Significantly Lower "Mountain Tuition" Offered to Students from Appalachian States
I
n 2012, a New York Times article warned parents to brace for $40,000 tuitions at private day schools in the city. By 2020, more than 50 schools had reached and surpassed that mark. New York City is not alone. Across the country, independent school tuitions have risen faster than Ivy League college tuitions. There are many explanations for the rising costs — rising teacher salaries, increased costs for medical benefits, more student support positions, new programs, and, especially on historic campuses like St. Andrew’s-Sewanee’s, the upkeep and renovation of aging facilities. There is also an understanding that these rising tuitions are neither sustainable nor affordable for the vast number families who are seeking a private day or boarding school experience for their children. With this in mind, last year the SAS Board of Trustees approved a new tuition plan designed to make St. Andrew’sSewanee School more affordable. In addition to generous financial aid, which has always been offered, SAS froze the domestic boarding tuition rate and introduced Mountain Tuition for students from Appalachian region states. “When the Brothers of the Order of the Holy Cross founded St. Andrew’s School, their desire was to provide an education for the ‘barefoot boys of Appalachia,’” explains Head of School Karl J. Sjolund. “We have remained faithful to the spirit of that mission while recognizing that the labor of talented and dedicated individuals, small class sizes, and a wide array of enrichment opportunities are expensive endeavors. We are committed to increasing affordability through lower tuition and generous financial aid.” Students from the Appalachian region, including Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Virginia, now qualify for the lower Mountain Tuition rate
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regardless of family income. For 2020-2021, Mountain Tuition is $43,000, almost $7,000 less than the base domestic boarding rate. “For years, the growth in boarding school tuition In addition to establishing has outpaced the Mountain Tuition plan, family incomes,” SAS lowered the base Sjolund exdomestic boarding rate. plained. “While the cost of providing such personalized and high-quality instruction is high, we recognize that our families are also having to save for college tuition. Our hope is that this tuition reset, especially during a time of economic uncertainty, will help to alleviate some of that pain.” In addition to establishing the Mountain Tuition plan, SAS lowered the base domestic boarding rate from $50,400 to $49,980 and froze the international tuition rate. The school continues to provide financial aid for qualifying families. In addition to need-based aid, the school’s Claiborne Scholars program provides merit aid for entering 9th and 10th grade boarding students who demonstrate academic prowess and leadership potential. The Hubbard Scholarship provides full tuition for qualifying students from Shelby County (Memphis). Special scholarships are also available for students whose parents are Episcopal employees or seminarians. For more information about admission and affordability at SAS, go to www.sasweb.org/admission.
Beyond Enjoyment to Satisfaction
L
ike many faculty members at SAS, Michael Short wears many hats. A residential faculty member, he teaches Humanities 6 and English. His greatest passion, though, is helping SAS students find ways to enjoy the abundant outdoor opportunities available on the SAS campus and in the surrounding areas through varsity and middle school mountain biking, climbing club, climbing team, and as an Outdoor Adventure and Adventure Education teacher. As Outdoor Education and Place-Based Learning Coordinator, Michael is always searching for new ways to use our natural environment to help students find challenge, balance, and joy. “Each week in Adventure Education, we try to introduce our Middle School students to one hard skill and one soft skill. We also alternate weeks between a more adventurous activity and one that focuses on team building,” explains Michael. Hard skills might include how to use a climbing harness, knot tying, or learning to steer a kayak. While students are gaining those skills, Michael also guides them through lessons on facing discomfort, supporting a struggling peer, creative problem solving, or finding comfort in solitude. A recent lesson built around learning to canoe focused on paddling technique and developing healthy attitudes towards competition. Another lesson used slacklining to promote creative problem solving. “Students complete a survey after each unit asking them to reflect on their mastery, enjoyment, and satisfaction. It’s important to me that they understand that there is a difference between enjoying something and being satisfied. That movement towards mastery is the difference.”
Outdoor Education and Place-Based Learning Coordinator Michael Short and Father Flye Fellow Thomas Simerville ’16 spot seventh grader Eli McLaurin as he learns how to jump and fall safely during an Adventure Education class. Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 15
I am because we are; we are, therefore, I am. Ubuntu in the time of COVID-19
A Conversation with
Joseph Barker ’96
W
hen the COVID-19 pandemic began to disrupt travel in March, Joseph Barker ’96 was in his fourth year of working as an epidemiologist in Kenya for the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “The Government of Kenya decided to close down their international borders and flights were being suspended. The State Department told us that if we wanted to return to the U.S., now was the time,” explains Joseph. Joseph had a special reason for getting out while he could. “My daughter was due to be born at the end of July. Had I stayed I would have missed that.” As part of his work through CDC, Joseph provides technical assistance to the Kenyan government to use data and systems for public health response. His interest in sub-Saharan Africa and public health began with Peace Corps service in Benin 20 years ago. “Although my work in Benin was on economic development, I was struck by how a person’s health and wellbeing impacted all other activities,” he remembers. After the Peace Corps, Joseph returned to the U.S. and enrolled in Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health to pursue his master’s degree. During his graduate studies, he worked with the Rwanda Zambia HIV Research Group. In 2006, Joseph set out for Uganda where he worked on multiple projects with the CDC. He helped to establish the first integrated bio behavioral surveillance system in Kampala that
focused on populations vulnerable to HIV. His work eventually led to a position at CDC’s Division of Global HIV & TB and continued travel to sub-Saharan Africa to provide technical support to HIV programs. In 2013, Ambassador Deborah Birx detailed him from CDC to the State Department to work on the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief global quality improvement initiatives. This spring, SAS Assistant Director of Development Stephen Brehm called Joseph to request a donation to the SAS Fund. “I gave,” says Joseph, “and in the course of the conversation I mentioned that I was trained in epidemiology and public health. My doctoral research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is focused on optimizing HIV testing in Kenya; COVID19 is learning from approaches that work for HIV and vice versa.” Stephen asked Joseph if he could put him in contact with the school’s college counselor and newly appointed COVID Coordinator, Dan Monahan. Dan and Joseph spoke frequently throughout the summer, and Joseph’s personal experience and expertise in community health settings have informed every step of SAS’s COVID-19 protocol planning. Joseph has found the seriousness with which SAS has approached the pandemic encouraging. “The protocols that SAS has in place follow evidence-informed guidelines and the testing strategy are remarkable.” But he warns, “Sewanee is NOT a bubble. People travel. Communities
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From the St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Honor Pledge LEADER: Will you pledge to promote and support the health and safety of every member of this community, including yourself? PEOPLE: I will, with God's help.
are not segregated by schools. People have different perceptions about their risk for COVID-19.” Throughout the planning, Joseph emphasized that it was important that SAS not speak of “if ” the school would have to go virtual but “when”. That thinking has helped to prepare the community for the gravity of the situation and to plan for multiple scenarios. “Few public health professionals expected the resistance to science that we have seen in the U.S. We have politicized a virus that exists agnostic of political, religious or socio-cultural beliefs.” He continues, “Our prioritization of the individual’s experience and choices is adding to the body count. We think of ourselves as somehow exempt from this pathogen. The world is looking at this disaster in the U.S. and scratching their heads.” “I think that we are finally understanding that American exceptionalism may do more harm in the face of a global pandemic. The virus does not know geographic borders,” emphasizes Joseph. Joseph is concerned about how the COVID-19 epidemic will continue to impact sub-Saharan Africa because of suboptimal healthcare infrastructure, but he also believes that those countries have an edge on the U.S. in their public health response. “They have more experience with large epidemics of infectious diseases than we do,” he explains. “And, because of that, they have a better understanding of the need for contact tracing, isolation, as well as populationwide and targeted testing.” He encourages us not to put our hope in what he sees as false promises, “Many people have erroneously believed that finding a vaccine as ‘curing’ COVID at the population level. We have only eradicated two infectious diseases: smallpox and rinderpest. With other pathogens
and infectious agents what we do is control outbreaks. A vaccine is a major tool for COVID pandemic control, but full control will require a combination of all interventions – including continued prevention measures such as masking, social distancing, and good hygiene.” Joseph sees the culture at SAS as one of the strengths that can get us through this. “SAS students understand that their actions impact others. When a community commits to respecting and loving one other, then the natural desire is to want what is best for one another. If that tenor was across the U.S. right now, we would not be where we are.” But he urges us not to be too hard on our neighbors, “We need to find a way to dialogue, really listen, and not just position ourselves until we get to speak. We cannot begin by saying, ‘You’re wrong’. Part of creating community is empathizing, sympathizing, and taking time to understand that we all share a deep love of and concern for the well-being of the people we know and love.” Despite the politicization of the pandemic, Joseph remains hopeful. In southern Africa, there is a term and concept of Ubuntu. It is an understanding that there is a universal bond that connects all humanity, “I am because we are.” Joseph sees this moment in our history as an opportunity to suppress two viruses, COVID-19 and a culture that has tipped too far away from prioritizing the community’s well being, “We have a unique opportunity in this time to be about the greater good, to think beyond ‘I’ to ‘we’.”
Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 17
Not If, But When Preparing for the School Year In-person and Online I want you to know how much I appreciate every single step, plan, precaution, and communication that you and the group are orchestrating and administering ... May God’s wisdom and grace uphold you in this work. —THE REV. JOHN W. A. JENKINS, CURRENT PARENT—
S
t. Andrew’s-Sewanee School resumed our in-person community life in August. We began the year with two rounds of community SARS-CoV-2 testing and will continue random testing throughout the inperson portion of our first semester. We are also monitoring the active case rates in the four-county region from which we draw our day students. Unless the situation warrants an early move to online learning, we will continue in-person classes until Thanksgiving week. The final two weeks of the semester will be online to allow our students
to return to their families for the holidays without fear of bringing the virus back to campus after their travels. Quarantine and testing will take place when we reconvene in January. The community is following recommended health precautions including physical distancing, frequent handwashing, and strict face covering requirements. Each morning, each member of the community undergoes a health and temperature screening. New and improving information, an evolving situation, and the constructive
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feedback of our community will necessitate changes as we continue to live into these plans. Throughout the planning and implementation, we have kept our community informed and have provided opportunities for feedback and constructive solutions. Although SAS received high marks from our families in the spring when classes went online, additional audiovisual equipment, teacher training, and a new learning management system have prepared us to do even better if conditions necessitate an unscheduled move to online learning.
The Gift of the Mountain
SAS Summer 2021
W
ith the confidence borne of the success of our COVID protocols, we are moving full steam ahead to launch a residential summer camp for rising 5th-12th graders in Summer 2021. Plan on a summer of fun on the Mountain with overnight camps, day camps, outdoor adventure, arts, athletics, enrichment and more! Folk Music • Farming • Clay • Painting Dance • Theater • Mountain Biking Climbing • Academic Support • Culinary Arts Hiking • Swimming • Canoeing • More!
COST includes SARS-CoV-2 testing
Enjoy two- or three-week sessions
July 5-25
sasweb.org/summer Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 19
This year’s crop of new hires included four alumni: CFOO Jennifer Dillon ’82, Admission Counselor Jasmine Render ’14, Father Flye Fellow Thomas Simerville ’16, and Art Teacher and Farm Educator Margaret Wilson ’16.
I
am so glad to be back at SAS. Returning to campus as a teacher has been a very smooth transition, helped by the deep connection and support I feel from the SAS faculty and the Sewanee community. In addition to my studies and experiences since leaving SAS, the countless hours I spent in the clay studio as a student and my summer on the SAS Farm have gone a long way to preparing me to be a first-year teacher. It’s still early in the year, but teaching has been one of the most joyful, challenging, and rewarding things I have done in my life. —Margaret Wilson ’16
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Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 21
Changing Keys
TO RESPOND TO COVID-19
J
azz musicians are trained to improvise. Classical musicians are taught to adjust to what is happening in the room. Church musicians do a great job of making do with what is available to them. And, rock musicians? Well, they just power on through. Maybe we shouldn’t be surprised then that when a pandemic was looming, SAS music teacher, J.R. Ankney, was one of the first to come up with robust plans to adjust to changing conditions. A graduate of the Berklee College of Music, J.R. has had a full career teaching, performing, and recording every genre of music. He and his wife, science teacher Dr. Peggy Ankney, joined SAS’s residential faculty three years ago when the couple decided that they were not quite ready for the retirement they had begun. Having already logged a full and rewarding career, J.R. is someone who could have easily thrown in the towel when the pandemic made it clear that,
this year, music instruction as we knew it was not going to be possible. Instead, when rising case numbers drove us online in the spring, J.R. taught himself the technology needed to create virtual performances. The music videos he created with his students enlivened our virtual chapels and our Commencement services. He even threw in a few extra songs now and then just to cheer us up. Then he got really creative. Understanding that choral performance was unlikely in the fall, J.R. gathered the school’s collection of half and three-quarter sized guitars and rebuilt the sixth-grade music curriculum around learning the concepts of note reading, rhythm, and ensemble performance through guitar. The seventh and eighth graders are exploring music and performance through change bell ringing. Gloves, which have always been used to protect the bells, now have a dual purpose. J.R. then took what originally had been intended as a storage room in Mc-
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Crory Hall for the Performing Arts and, with some help, labored through the summer to turn it into a recording studio. Now, in addition to enjoying an Upper School course in guitar ensemble, students have the pleasure of both an academic course and an afternoon program in Music Production, Songwriting, and Recording. A recent Saturday found J.R. in the recording studio welcoming faculty and staff to join him in a recording of Carole King’s You’ve Got a Friend for a future chapel service. When you’re down and troubled And you need some love and care And nothing, nothing is going right Close your eyes and think of me And soon I will be there To brighten up even your darkest night. J.R.’s creativity, commitment, and resilience are, indeed, much-needed lights in these times of uncertainty and anxiety.
In Memoriam
Past Employees Elizabeth Dickson former staff, died June 30, 2020. She started her career in Chattanooga at White Star Laundry and worked for SAS from 1981 to 1987 and before retirement in 2019. She devoted her life to taking care of others. Ms. Dickson is survived by her extended family. Timothy H. Graham former faculty, died April 6, 2020. Mr. Graham earned a BA from Wake Forest University and an MA from Middle Tennessee State University. After graduate school, he was employed as a guidance counselor at The Webb School in Bell Buckle, Tenn. He later worked as a fundraising consultant for Holliman Associates. From 1995 to 2016, Mr. Graham was the Director of Development at SAS. He was involved with many local Sewanee nonprofits, including Otey Memorial Parish, the Rotary Club, Folks at Home, Housing Sewanee, the Sewanee Community Chest, and Friends of the South Cumberland. He also served as a Boy Scout leader. In announcing Mr. Graham’s death, Head of School Karl Sjolund wrote: “During Tim’s 22-year tenure at SAS, he helped the school to raise more than $37 million, affecting the experience of every student and ensuring the construction or renovation of every building on the campus. He was a man of great warmth and integrity, a loving husband to his wife, Janet, the proud father of Laura Beth Graham Matthews ‘01 and David Graham ‘06, and a doting grandfather. Since his retirement, Tim had thrown himself full force into his many community volunteer roles, travel and recreation, and enjoying his family. He also remained committed to SAS. He attended campus events, shared joy in the school’s good news, was always eager to lend information or a helping hand. He kept close to his many friendships with SAS alumni and friends. As former SAS Trustee Steve Wilkerson SMA ‘61 wrote, “Tim’s life is a reminder of how much can be done by a good and decent man.”
Brother Gregory, former faculty died August 14, 2020. After military service, he entered the Order of the Holy Cross. In 1965 he worked at St. Andrew’s School as the librarian. Brother Gregory was wise and kind as he worked individually with students academically and gave personal support. He saw the library as the center of education and worked with architects on designing the new classroom building with an open library in the center of the building. Julie C. Hargis former faculty, died December 9, 2019. She is survived by three children; two sisters, including former SAS employee Linda Meeks; and extended family. In celebrating her life, former faculty member
Patrick Dean wrote, “RIP for a sweet woman with a gruff exterior. She took care of me and many, many others.” Susan K. Selvey former faculty, died January 19, 2020. Ms. Selvey was a graduate of University of Nebraska at Omaha and University of Missouri - Kansas City. Following graduation, she joined the Actor’s Equity Association, AFTRA, and SAG, and began an acting career. From 1983-1984, she taught acting at SAS. She left SAS to care for her mother, help with the family business, and continue her career as an actor, playwright, teacher, and director. She is survived by her brother and extended family
Alumni Roy A. Huff StA ’42 died September 18, 2019. After graduating high school, Mr. Huff joined the U.S. Army. He was stationed in the South Pacific. He was honorably discharged in 1946 as a Private First Class and joined the U.S. Postal Service. He was a faithful Episcopalian but also kept his traditional beliefs through the Longhouse with the Oneida Tribe. He is survived by his children and extended family. Peter C. Sundt SMA ’43, died December 22, 2019. Mr. Sundt joined the US Navy and served in the Pacific through the end of WW II. He earned a BS in electrical engineering from Rice University and was employed by Hughes Aircraft Co. and Mandrel before forming his own company, Metrix Instrument Co. He was a lifelong sailor and lover of the sea. Mr. Sundt is survived by his sister, three children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. John H. Duncan, Sr. SMA ’45 died January 12, 2020. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from University of Texas at Austin and joined the family business, Duncan Coffee. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Mr. Duncan was co-founder and the first president of Gulf and Western. He also co-founded Gulf
Consolidated Services and served as its chairman. Mr. Duncan founded The Rise School of Houston which provides early education for special needs children. Mr. Duncan is survived by his wife, Brenda; brother, Charles Duncan SMA ’43; children; and extended family. Lewis H. Hill III SMA ’45 died June 14, 2020. He served as Battalion Commander and Engine Cadet in the U.S. Merchant Marine Cadet Corps before entering the University of the South. His legal studies at the University of Florida were interrupted by 18 months of active duty in the U.S. Navy in Japan and South Korea, but after graduation, he returned to Tampa to join his father at Hill, Hill and Dickenson, later becoming a partner and managing partner. Mr. Hill, who served in numerous professional associations, received awards for his work and community service. He is survived by his wife, Sally; four children; grandchildren; and extended family. Bailey Rascoe, Jr. SMA ’45 died March 2, 2020. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1944. After his discharge, Mr. Roscoe earned his BS and MS degrees in geology at Vanderbilt. He was employed by Phillips Petroleum Company. Mr. Rascoe taught geological seminars until accepting a position as VP of Geological Exploration in 1983 with Clyde Petroleum. He wrote numer-
Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 23
In Memoriam
ous technical papers that were published and used worldwide. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; two daughters; and extended family. Emmet P. Putnam, III SMA ’46 died January 25, 2020. After graduating cum laude with a degree in civil engineering from Vanderbilt University, he joined Lumber Dealers, Inc. before serving in the Army Air Force Corps of Engineers during the Korean War. At the end of his military service, he joined the family business, Abbeville Lumber Company eventually serving as president and CEO and helping expand the business to include Abbeville Offshore Quarters. Mr. Putnam served as a founding board member of Gulf Coast Bank and with the Abbeville Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club, and Vermilion Parish Library; and as a member of the Session of First Presbyterian Church of Abbeville. He was an avid outdoorsman and birder, and supported conservation and wildlife preservation efforts. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; two children; and his sister. John C. Christian, Jr. SMA ’47 died June 30, 2020. Mr. Christian graduated from Drury College and Tulane University School of Law. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps and Missouri National Guard. Mr. Christian practiced law in Lake Charles, Shreveport, and New Orleans where he was a partner in the Milling Benson Woodward firm representing oil and gas companies and large landowners. He served on the Board of Directors of the Louisiana Landowners Association. He was a member of Christ Episcopal Church, Covington and enjoyed singing in the choir. He is survived by his wife, Peggy Jeanne Cain; two children; and grandchildren. Retired Colonel Guilford “Griff” Griffin StA ’47 died February 15, 2020. Col. Griffin was drafted into the Army in 1952, attended Officer Candidate School, and served his country for 26 years as a finance officer. He earned a BS in business management from Maryland University, an MBA from Syracuse University, and attended the U.S. Army War College. Col. Griffin fought in Vietnam and served tours in Alaska,
Hawaii, and Germany as well as assignments throughout the continental United States. Following his service, he began his career as a Town Clerk and Town Manager. The Main Street Infrastructure Project he oversaw led Culpeper, Va. to be named “one of the top ten small towns in America”. Col. Griffin was a member of The Virginia Managers League, an honorary member of the Virginia Electric Power of Virginia, and a life member of the VFW, The Retired Army Finance Officers Association, and Yorkrite Shriners. He was a 32nd degree Mason, a member of the International Knights Templar, and a member and lay reader with the Piedmont Episcopal Church in Madison, Va. He is survived by his wife, Vera; son; grandchildren; and great grandchildren. Robert “Bobby” E. Palmer SMA ’47 died July 19, 2020. Mr. Palmer attended the Teacher’s Training School at Southeastern Louisiana University and LSU Law School. He practiced law for 62 years. Mr. Palmer enjoyed spending time with family and friends, telling stories, singing in choirs, traveling, reading, and playing guitar and piano, especially for his grandchildren. He was a communicant at the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation for most of his life. He is survived by four daughters, grandchildren, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his brother Charles Palmer SMA ’45. Whitfield M. Palmer, Jr. SMA ’47 died January 1, 2020. Mr. Palmer attended the University of Florida. He was president and CEO of Dixie Lime and Stone Co., chairman of Florida Crushed Stone Co., purchased MFM Industries, was president of Paddock Park Development, and served as president and chairman of HydroMentia, Inc. He served as a director of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Jacksonville Branch, and SunTrust Bank of Ocala and was a member and former Chairman of the Florida Council of 100. He served on the boards of Florida TaxWatch, Florida Chamber of Commerce, National Crushed Stone Association, and the National Association of Manufacturers. He served as president of the UF Alumni Association and president of the University of Florida Foundation and received UF’s Distinguished Alumnus Award and President’s
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Medallion. He also served on the board of UF Health Shands Hospital, Munroe Regional Medical Center, Munroe Foundation, and Central Florida Community College and was instrumental in the establishment of Phoenix House. When actor Paul Newman decided to build a Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in Florida for children with serious and lifethreatening diseases, he recruited Mr. Palmer to lead the effort to build what is now Camp Boggy Creek. He is survived by his wife, Diane; four children; nine grandchildren, including Ryan Palmer ’00; and extended family. Ernestine Daughtry SMS ‘49 died September 17, 2019. Mrs. Daughtry was a native and lifelong resident of Poarch, Ala. She served on the Poarch Band of Creek Indians Tribal Council for over 17 years and was a member of the housing board for over 10 years. She is survived by four children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extended family. Laurance W. Brooks, Jr. SMA ’51 died February 21, 2020. Mr. Brooks had an abiding and lifelong love of Louisiana State University from which he graduated and where he played football and lettered in track & field. He was a member of Kapa Alpha order and a founding member of the LSU chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He was past president of the LSU “L” Club. After graduating from LSU, he enlisted in the USAF, was commissioned as a lieutenant, and served in Germany. Following his service, he had a long and successful commercial real estate career in Baton Rouge. He was a member of the Rotary Club of Baton Rouge and a Paul Harris Fellow, past chairman of the Baton Rouge Assembly, and a parishioner of St. James Episcopal Church. He is survived by his wife, June; two daughters; and grandchildren. Honorary pallbearers included David M. Ellison, Jr. SMA ’50. Peter J. Garland SMA ’51 died May 26, 2020. He was a graduate of the University of the South, Emory University School of Law, and George Peabody College. Mr. Garland served in the U.S. Air Force where he achieved the rank of Second Lieutenant. As a civilian, he served for thirty years as a law librarian and lecturer at Vanderbilt University.
He was one of the founders and supporters of the University of the South's Garland-Govan Memorial Scholarship Fund for students residing in the local area. Eugene I. Earnhardt, Jr. SMA ’52 died February 4, 2020. Mr. Earnhardt attended Washington & Lee University and graduated from Northwestern University with degrees in economics and English. He was a salesman for Alcoa Steamship Company before entering UNC-Chapel Hill graduate school in American history. He became a professor and department chair at Pfeiffer University in N.C. He was an active member of the Presbyterian Church. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; three sons; one grandson; and extended family. Samuel W. Van Leer SMA ’52 died February 29, 2020. He earned degrees in civil engineering and industrial management at Georgia Tech where he was active in the Sigma Chi Fraternity and competed on the swim team. He began his career teaching science and mathematics, coaching basketball, and serving as camp director at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta. After receiving a MEd from Georgia State, he served as headmaster at Springwood School, UMS-Wright School, St. Luke’s Episcopal School in Mobile, and Beaches Episcopal School. He was an active Rotarian and led the expansion of a museum celebrating the history of the Jacksonville Beach area. He is survived by his wife, Mary; three children; grandchildren; and extended family William F. McGee SMA ’53 died December 14, 2019. Mr. McGee attended the University of Georgia where he joined Pershing Rifles and Kappa Alpha fraternity and managed the swim team. After graduation, he taught at the Georgia Military College before earning a MEd at UGA and attending Mercer University’s Walter F. George School of Law. He practiced law in Flagler Beach, Fla., and, in addition to his private practice, served for many years as part-time Assistant Public Defender. He was a member of the Flagler County Rotary Club, the Flagler County Council on Aging, and the Florida Bar Committee on Unauthorized Practice of Law and was an active Freemason and Shriner.
He helped to start the Flagler Palm Coast High School wrestling team and was a lifelong team mentor. He is survived by his wife, Anita (Ann); four children; grandchildren; and extended family. Dale W. Doss (CAPT, USN retired) StA ’54 died December 11, 2019. Upon graduating from UNC Chapel Hill, he entered the U.S. Navy. LCDR Doss was serving as an A-6A bombardier/navigator aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise in the Gulf of Tonkin when he was forced to eject over North Vietnam on his 54th mission. He was taken Prisoner of War on March 17, 1968 and spent 1,824 days in captivity. He returned to American soil on March 17, 1973. CDR Doss went on to serve as a naval recruiter. His final assignment was as Deputy Inspector General with the Commander, Navy Recruiting Command Inspector General’s Office in Orlando. After retirement, he became the Director of Veteran Services for Leon County, Fla. He served on the Board of Directors for the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, Tallahassee Quarterback Club, and as President of the Tallahassee Lions Club. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge #937, an FSU booster, and a member of the Springtime Tallahassee Antebellum Krewe. In 2009, he received the SAS Distinguished Alumni Award. He is survived by his wife, Stephany; two children; granddaughters; and great-grandchildren. The family requested that contributions in his honor be made to St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School. Franklin R. Hodges StA ’54 died April 6, 2020. Mr. Hodges became a journeyman millwright at Bowater Paper Company and worked his way through college during his years on the Apollo Space Program. While completing his education to become a professional quality engineer, he built a career in nuclear power plant construction and the nuclear research industry, eventually retiring from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Mr. Hodges is survived by his wife, Laticia; his daughter; two stepdaughters; and extended family. Clyde C. Dickson Jr. SMA ’55 died July 22, 2020. After graduating from UNC Chapel Hill, Mr. Dickson began a lifelong career at the C.C. Dickson Company. He was the chairman of
the Croydon Corporation, parent company of C.C. Dickson Company. He was a board member of Wingate University, the Jesse Helms Center, and the Salvation Army Advisory Board, and a member of Myers Park Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy; seven children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert T. Dickson ’61, and extended family. Gerhard “Joe” Herzog StA ’55 died November 12, 2019. Mr. Herzog served in the Army National Guard in Louisiana from 1957-1963. He worked as a typesetter for many years then became a warehouse manager. He loved to coach little league baseball and hunt deer. He is survived by his brother, three children, his grandchildren, and extended family. William J. Welborn, Jr. SMA ’56 died June 21, 2020. He was a graduate of Davidson College. Mr. Welborn is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; two sons; one daughter; numerous grandchildren and greatgrandchildren; and his sister. Robert “Robin” K. Moyer, Jr. SMA ’57 died May 9, 2020. He served his country as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps and attended Tulane University. Known for his, kindness, generosity, and integrity, Mr. Moyer worked in the insurance industry and ultimately retired from Eagan Insurance. The Sigma Chi Alpha Omicron chapter house at Tulane University was named for him in recognition of his many years as a chapter advisor, house manager, mentor, and fundraiser. He was a member of the Stratford Club and the Southern Yacht Club. He is survived by his wife, Marie “Micey”; a son; three grandchildren; a sister; and extended family. Richard R. Randolph III SMA ’57 died June 27, 2020. The grandson of Richard Rutherford Randolph, Sr., a graduate of the Sewanee Grammar School c. 1879, Richard attended the University of the South before earning a BS in business from the University of Alabama. He entered the U.S. Air Force as an officer in 1962 and flew all over the world with Military Air Transport Command in C-124 “Globemaster” aircraft, including combat time in Vietnam. Following his service, he worked as a sales
representative before founding the Central Trane Air Conditioning Company. He became a partner and vice president of Norville-Randolph Realtors which merged into LAH Real Estate where he was CFO and senior vice president. Mr. Randolph was also a General Partner in the Recolonization of Blount Springs. He was a member of The Sewanee Club, Jefferson County Historical Association, and Birmingham Historical Society and an active church liaison to Boy Scouts of America Troop 53, where each of his grandsons earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Mr. Randolph is survived by his wife, Natasha; two sons; four grandchildren; and extended family. Joseph A. “Art” Shepperd, Jr. SMA ’57 died May 6, 2020. Mr. Shepperd earned a degree in accounting at University of Texas-Austin and spent his career as a CPA. He was a committed member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, serving as an alumni advisor for 25 years. Mr. Shepperd found his true calling as a little league coach, saltwater fisherman, father, and grandfather. He was a member of the vestry at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Austin. Mr. Shepperd is survived by his wife, Martha; two sons; grandchildren; and extended family. Carroll E. Pooler, Jr., SMA ’59 died March 25, 2020. He attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana and served in the Louisiana National Guard. Mr. Pooler worked as an exploration geologist. His creativity resulted in several patents. He was involved in many civic organizations and Mardi Gras associations; however, his proudest community contribution was his work to help establish the Episcopal School of Acadiana. He was a longtime parishioner of the Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Lafayette and later the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany in New Iberia. He is survived by his three children; four grandchildren; and extended family. Robert “Brad” Stinson StA ’60 died December 30, 2019. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Mr. Stinson was happiest coaching his children’s sports teams and riding his Harley. He is survived by his wife, two children, four grandchildren, and extended family.
Joseph Mansfield StA ’64 died November 28, 2019. He served in the U.S. Army. Mr. Mansfield is survived by his son, John Mansfield, IV ’90 and his two grandsons. Laura “Lolly” Smith Stuart SMS ’64 died November 7, 2019. Ms. Stuart earned a degree in special and elementary education from Peabody College and an MEd. She served in the Peace Corps in Fiji, where she taught primary school and established a special education program. Her experience began a life of travel that would eventually take her to more than 35 countries and a teaching stint at Colegio Internacional Caracas. She worked as a teacher for most of her career. After retiring, Ms. Stuart volunteered at Luther Place Memorial Church in Washington, D.C., NPR radio affiliate WAMU, and local elementary schools. She supported many family and friends during their life challenges by visiting, cooking for them, and providing compassionate care. She is survived by her husband, Scott; two children; three grandchildren; and two siblings. Charles T. Clements StA ’65 died January 19, 2020. Mr. Clements was a banker and served on numerous volunteer boards, including twelve years on the Vidalia City Council and the Vidalia Recreation Department Board of Directors. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; his son; four grandchildren; and extended family. Brooks P. Merritt, Jr. StA ’66 died October 31, 2019. He loved every minute of his 26-year career in the U.S. Navy and achieved the rank of Commander. He served four tours at Miramar Naval Air Station, attended Supply Corps School and Naval Postgraduate School, and served on the USS America, USS Enterprise, USS Constellation, USS Kitty Hawk, and USS Kinkaid. After serving three years in Japan as XO of the Supply Center in Yokosuka, he retired from military service and settled in Monterey. He was proud to be the first Program Manager of the Monterey Bay Procurement Technical Assistance Center and enjoyed working in the pro shop at the Monterey Pines Golf Course. He is survived by his wife, Judy; two children; a grandson; two sisters; and two brothers, including Doug Merritt StA ’70.
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In Memoriam
Merrill Pratt SMA ’66 died October 13, 2019. He earned degrees from Auburn University and the University of Tennessee. A voracious reader and lifelong learner, he loved to play the guitar and was learning to play the ukulele. He was known for his quiet dedication, his quick laugh, and his generous spirit. He is survived by his wife, Suzanne; seven children; two grandchildren; and extended family. William C. Moser, III StA ’67 died August 18, 2019. Mr. Moser attended Furman University and the University of South Carolina Law School. After a career in law with the South Carolina Water Resources Commission and private practice, and working for Interstate Nuclear Services Corp. and Imagemax Corp., he retired to pursue his passions for woodworking, gardening, and taking care of his family. He is survived by his wife, Carole; his son; and extended family. Henry E. “Chip” Palmer SMA ’68 died January 13, 2019. He had a life-long passion for aviation, fishing, and reading. Over his lifetime, he earned degrees in economics and finance from Florida State University, a MS in Health Physics from University of Florida, and an MBA from West Texas A&M University. Mr. Palmer’s long career in the field of health physics began as part of the accident response team at Three Mile Island. This led him to Amarillo, Texas and the Pantex Plant where he worked for nearly 20 years. As senior health physicist, he was instrumental in the process to dismantle nuclear weapons. Mr. Palmer is survived by his son, four siblings, and extended family. Roberta “Bobbie” F. Fuller SA ’73 died December 4, 2019. Before her retirement, Mrs. Fuller was employed as a receptionist at Southern Tennessee Regional Health Systems. She was involved with the Ladies Group of the National Sheriffs’ Association and several other law enforcement support associations. She is survived by her husband, Tim; two children; two grandchildren; her brother, Richard “Barney” O’Keefe SMA ’70; her sister; and extended family. Robert S. Ruleman SA ’77 died December 8, 2019. He attended Centre
College and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, worked as a building contractor for Ruleman Homes, and as a salesman for Aaron Rents. A musician, Mr. Ruleman played bass guitar for various Memphis bands. He was a selfless friend to many, including animals and children. He is survived by his son, his parents, and his siblings. James R. Perkins SA ’81 died January 17, 2020. He attended Christian University where he received a degree in criminal justice. Mr. Perkins served as a special agent with the Department of Defense and the Department of Treasury. He is survived by two sons, his mother, and extended family. Donald “Brent” LeTellier ’82 died July 14, 2020. He earned degrees from UT Knoxville and Duquesne University before returning to Knoxville where he worked in various jobs including social work at Helen Ross McNabb Center and two stints of being a stay-at-home dad/trophy husband. His degrees and experience led him to Lonsdale Elementary School where he spent the last 13 years as a teacher/behavior specialist. He is survived by his wife, Maria; five children; a grandchild; his mother; stepmothers; siblings; and extended family. Augustus “Gus” B. Croom ’22 died August 16, 2020. Gus was a high honors student at SAS and served as an SAS ambassador and acolyte. He was an avid mountain biker and loved riding the trails of the SAS campus and the University of the South with the SAS mountain biking team. He played soccer and tennis, ran track, and enjoyed making pottery and swimming at the Res. In May, Gus became a Life Scout. While undergoing treatment at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, he completed the required service hours for achieving that rank by helping to train Squid, a Labrador Retriever who is the first staff companion dog at the hospital. Gus spent many a summer enjoying the wonderful sports camps at Sewanee and the beach in South Carolina. He adored good food, travel, and “chilling” with his buddies. Gus will be remembered as a happy and laughing young man, trusted friend, and loving son and brother, who faced a difficult and extended illness with
26 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Fall 2020
tremendous courage, strength, and positivity. In addition to his parents, Gus is survived by his devoted twin brother Alexander “Mac” Croom ’22; sister Elizabeth Bonner Croom ’83; brother Frederick Croom, Jr. ’85; and extended family. The family requested that memorials be made to St. Andrew’s–Sewanee School.
Notices of Death Billy I. Gass StA ’50 died Jan. 17, 2016. Cary L. Page, Jr. SMA ’51 died September 7, 2018. Fielding Combs, Jr. SMA ’52 died June 21, 2015. Edwin D. Foster StA ’52 died Friday, March 20, 2020. Fulton L. Liming StA ’52 died July 10, 2011. William Barton SMA ’55 died March 20, 2019. William “Bill” T. Johnson SMA ’62 and former faculty, died June 30, 2020. Michael B. Wallace StA ’62 died January 27, 2020. Jon A. Bryant SMA ’65 died February 18, 2018 John C. Nunnally SMA ’65 died January 7, 2020. Michael D. Abercrombie StA ’69 died December 18, 2017. Sandra A. Turner StA ’76 died April 15, 2018. Chris Johnson ’90 died March 4, 2020.
Future Hopes
F
uture hopes are the foundation of life and learning at SAS. No matter where their paths may lead, our students leave the Mountain eager and wellequipped to pursue their dreams. Over the years, thousands of alumni, families, and friends have joined together to invest in those hopes through their personal philanthropy. We are grateful for your commitment to SAS and your confidence in us. Over the summer, former SAS parents, Bruce (SMA ’69) and Sandy Baird, shared their plans to invest in students’ future hopes through an estate gift benefitting the school’s endowment. Current trustee and former Board president, Bruce is pictured here with Bella Sun ’19 who is now studying at Rhode Island School of Design.
Class Notes
1950s Douglas Newton SMA ‘56 lives in Brooklyn where he works as an artist, selling his paintings on his own and through galleries. In 2005, he and his wife, Kathie, left Soho and moved in with their daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter. He writes that “being with [my granddaughter], Ava, as she’s growing up has been the center of our lives.”
1960s Since meeting Canon Gideon Byamugisha of Uganda in Sewanee in 2013, Sally McCrady Hubbard SMS ‘61 has felt the call to support his HIV/AIDS work and Hope Institute. This vocational high school near Kampala has about 100 AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children with a two-year program that teaches them to support themselves through vocations such as construction, auto mechanics, catering and hotel management, fashion and design, and early childhood development. Sally’s nonprofit, Friends of Canon Gideon-USA, sponsors seven annual fundraisers and has provided more than $110,000 for a van, laptops, a catering kitchen, rainwater collection tanks, road repair, business practices instruction, microloans, and scholarships. In addition to this work, Sally and SAS parent Rachel Lynch have organized and equipped four seamstresses to produce and distribute masks in the community. Sally made 463 masks, the last 50 of which featured a vinyl window to enable students at the TN School for the Deaf in Knoxville to read lips.
1970s Robert Lundin StA ‘74 edits The Awakenings Review, which publishes work by poets and writers who have experience with mental illness - either themselves, friends, or family. In a press release, Robert writes: “I’m someone who has seen the best and worst of life, and fate has put
me squarely at the center of an epic struggle, the struggle between mental health and stigma.” Robert lives in Glen Ellyn, Ill. John Core StA ‘79 writes, “Missed everyone at Alumni Weekend. Hope to see you all in person in June 2021.” Te r e n c e Shepherd StA ‘79 was recently named the board chair of the Radio Te l e v i s i o n Digital News Association. He is also the news director for WLRN Public Media in Florida. In a press release, Terence said, “I am honored and humbled to be elected to this position and thank my peers who are members of RTDNA for the opportunity to serve them and our profession in this manner.” Terence lives in Coral Springs, Fla.
of her teachers and classmates attended the show, including Eugene Ham, Sanford McGee, Susan Core, Sarah Carlos, and Martha Warren StA ’82. Elizabeth lives in Takoma Park, Md. where she works as a spiritual counselor, storyteller, and interfaith minister. Tom Grubb ‘87 recently became Commodore of the Bradenton Yacht Club. He and his wife, Paula, live in Bradenton, Fla. where Tom works as an investment associate at Merrill Lynch.
1980s Ashley Dryden ‘82 is creating tiny homes in the woods of Sewanee. She wants people who decide to rent to feel close to nature. The houses are made out of shipping containers. She plans to build out the insides and build decks on the outside of each house. The compound will consist of four tiny homes once the project is finished. Ashley writes, “They will all be eco-friendly, super efficient, and creative spaces that utilize every square inch.” In May, Elizabeth McCain ‘82 published her memoir A Lesbian Belle Tells, OUTrageous Southern Stories of Family, Loss, and Love. The memoir is based on her awardwinning solo show of true stories of growing up in Mississippi, coming out in Washington D.C., experiencing family rejection, and finding true love and belonging. The last chapter includes a story about performing her show at her family’s summer home, “Southern Comfort,” in the Monteagle Assembly. Many
Capt. Johnny Johnson ‘87 has been a boat captain for 33 years. Recently, he starred in All on the Line on the Discovery Channel. The show premiered on May 22. If you’re interested in learning more about Johnny’s work, check out his website: bookgcc.com.
1990s Chip Schane ‘91 began working as the Public Safety and Emergency Management Director at the University of the South in June. He manages Sewanee’s Police and Fire Departments and coordinates Sewanee’s EMS team. Chip has worked in public safety for over 30 years as a firefighter, police officer, paramedic, and U.S. Marine. Lindsay Killian Batchelor ‘95 is the new director of NC State’s University Sustainability Office. Lindsay has worked at the university for more than 16 years, serving in a variety of sustainability-related roles. In addition to her new role, she also helped start an ACC Sports Sustainability Team and annual conference focused on how to leverage sustainabilit y in collegiate sports. Lindsay lives outside of Raleigh, N.C. with her husband of 13 years, Brian, and two daughters Ella and June. In her free time, she enjoys gardening and coaching youth soccer. Jay Motley ‘98 and his wife, Beth, welcomed their son John “Jack” Morris Motley on July 8, 2019. They live in Greenville, SC, where Jay is an anesthesiologist at Greenville Anesthesiology and Beth is a family medicine and lifestyle medicine physician with the Greenville Health System. Jay is a member of the SAS Board of Trustees.
Class Notes
2000s Hamilton S h o o k Charlson ‘04 and her husband, Jacob, had their daughter, Elizabeth “Betty” Anne on July 1. The family lives in Birmingham, Ala. where Hamilton works in healthcare as the VP of Operations for The Valletta Group. Hamilton writes, “Everyone is happy, healthy, and doing great!”
2010s Scott Owsley ‘10 has lived in Brooklyn for the past six years and currently works as an editor on The Not Too Late Show with Elmo. Recently, he also worked on Sesame Street and The Helpsters, which is another Sesame Street project. Before that, he worked as a junior editor on many projects, notably No Script with Marshawn Lynch and the Tony Awards.
quisition manager. John is a project manager for Shaw Industries. Zoë Frank Laney ‘12 married Jake Laney on September 1, 2018 in their church, which is right next to the coffee shop where they worked together and first met. Zoë and Jake now work at Main Street School as a theater teacher and Bible teacher, respectively. The couple lives in Tazewell, Va. Zoë writes, “I love it here! Very peaceful, small, and reminds me a lot of Sewanee actually.”
Slater Goodson ‘13 recently moved back to Nashville, Tenn. and works in the media industry. He co-owns Darkwater Productions with two friends and owns and operates GOOD. Media. Recently, he has been working on creative direction and brand management for artist, Conor Matthews. This works includes photoshoots, music videos, and direction for Matthews’ album and single covers. This year, Slater also designed the album art for rapper, Wiz Khalifa’s, album The Saga of Wiz Khalifa. Slater is also executive producer for Nuance Magazine. Slater and his friends started Nuance to seek out and interview talented artists before they get famous. Slater writes, “I’m incredibly lucky to get to work with my friends doing exactly what I love to do. 99% of the time it doesn’t even feel like work.”
Jaleah Sartain Beckley ‘06 and her husband, Micah, welcomed their baby, Claire, in May 2019. Jaleah plans to finish nurse practitioner school at the University of South Alabama in December. The family lives in Fairhope, Ala. Megan Barry Groover ‘08 and her husband, Brian, welcomed their son, Eli, on March 18, 2020. Megan works at Purecars, a digital marketing company, and Brian is a paramedic and firefighter for Clayton County. Megan and her family live in Powder Springs, Ga. Megan writes, “We love it here! Very family friendly!” Chelsea Tharp ‘09 graduated from the Southwestern Community College Outdoor Leadership program in May with an AAS in Outdoor Leadership and a certificate in Wilderness Therapy. She lives in Sylva, N.C. and works as a manager for Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours. She plans to attend Western North Carolina University in the spring of 2021 to get her bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management.
Catelyn Hutcherson Sturchio ‘11, married Dave Sturchio in Knoxville, Tenn. on February 29, 2020. Catelyn’s sister, Hannah Hutcherson ‘15, was her maid of honor. Kami Spaulding ‘11, Kate Wiley ‘11, and Bryce Taylor ‘11 were also in attendance. Cateyln and Dave live in Knoxville with their dog and two cats. Catelyn works in Health and Benefits at Willis Towers Watson and Dave works in Learning and Development at Clayton Homes in Maryville. They spend their free time mountain biking and gardening. Camas Gazzola ‘12 married John Burkhart on September 28, 2019. Alumni in attendance were Camas’s parents, Hunt Oliver ‘84 and Patton Watkins ‘84, and friends Allyson Hale ‘12, Helena Hofmeyer-Lancaster ‘12, Jimmy Kuo ‘12, and Kira Tharp ‘12. The couple lives in Chattanooga with their two dogs, Frazier and Ellie. Camas works for BenchMark Physical Therapy as a talent ac-
Britni Nunley Banta ‘13 and her husband, Lance Corporal Austin Banta, welcomed their first child, Isabella Sophia, on October 20, 2019. They live on-base at Camp Lejeune in N.C.
Diana Kamili ‘14 attended Roanoke College and graduated in 2018. She now works for Irembo tech company in Rwanda, which provides people with e-government services.
Evan Morris ‘12 and his wife, Ashley, welcomed their son, Asher Matthew, on September 26, 2019. Evan was recently featured in The Tennessee Insuror as a part of the “Future Leaders Spotlight” section. Evan and his family live in Winchester, Tenn., where he works at V.R. Williams & Company as a commercial producer. Christiana True Stramaglia ‘12 and her husband, Louis, welcomed their first child, Ophelia Marie, on November 1, 2019. The family lives in Yuma, Ariz., where Christiana teaches English online through VIPKid, and Louis flies C-12 planes for the U.S. Marine Corps.
Grace Liu ‘16 works as a Risk, Controls and Assurance intern at Anthem, Inc. in Indianapolis. She plans to return to Bloomington to complete her MSIS degree in 2021. Grace writes: “I am grateful for everyone who helped me through the recruiting journey, and I am excited for what the future will bring!” Tommy Oliver ‘16 who graduated from the University of the South in May, continues to play golf. He was named Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year at Sewanee. Tommy was also the co-recipient of the Charles Hammond Memorial Cup, which goes to the male athlete who best exemplifies excellence in scholarship and leadership. Way to go, Tommy!
Alumni in Print
Empress of Forever Max Gladstone ’02
A
t the center of Empress of Forever, Max Gladstone’s latest novel, is Vivian Liao, a successful innovator comparable to Elon Musk or Steve Jobs, who tends to think radically and make quick decisions. Before her greatest achievement, she tries to outrun those trying to steal her success. Vivian sets her plan into motion, but an instant later, she is catapulted through space and time into the future where she confronts a deadly stranger. The end of time is ruled by a powerful Empress who can either bless or blast entire planets with one thought. Rebellion seems impossible until Vivian arrives. Trapped between Pride, a horde of sentient machines, and a sect of warrior monks, the Mirrorfaith, Vivan must bring a group of allies together to confront the Empress and find a way back to the life she left behind. Reviewer John Chu describes Empress of Forever as “a breakneck epic that explores a wildly, boldly imagined universe, filled with awe and wonder.” The novel has also been called a classic space opera. Gladstone is the author of the Hugo-nominated Craft Sequence, and his short fiction has appeared on Tor.com and in Uncanny Magazine. He has written games, comics, and interactive television, and is the lead writer of the fantasy procedural series Bookburners. In addition to Empress of Forever, Gladstone is co-author of the time travel epistolary spy-vs-spy novella This is How You Lose the Time War. Learn more at maxgladstone.com.
Borderline Citizen: Dispatches from the the Outskirts of Nationhood
Robin Hemley StA ’76
A
s Robin Hemley places his U.S. passport on the tray table in front of him, his seatmate asks, “You patriot?” Contemplation of that question resulted in Borderline Citizen in which Hemley seeks to understand what it means to belong to and go beyond the borders of a nation. Hemley tells thought-provoking stories that can be described as “part memoir, part travelogue, part reportage, and part meditation on the borders that divide us and bring us together.” Reviewer Jeff Sharlet calls Borderline Citizen “quite possibly the most original travel book published in years.” The author of 12 books of nonfiction and fiction, including Do Over, which included a chapter on St. Andrew's-Sewanee School and his return to SAS, Hemley is the founder of NonfictioNOW, an international conference in nonfiction. A graduate of the Iowa Writers Workshop, he returned to direct the Nonfiction Writing Program for nine years. He is a contributing editor to The Iowa Review, on the advisory board of Fourth Genre, and former editor of The Bellingham Review. Hemley has received many accolades and awards including fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, The Rockefeller Foundation, three Pushcart Prizes in fiction and nonfiction, The Independent Press Book Award for Nonfiction, an Editor’s Choice Award from The American Library Association, and residencies at the Bellagio Center and The MacDowell Colony.
A Poem By Em Turner Chitty SA ’73 A sussurus of birdsong wakes me, indistinct through the still-closed glass, The snow of daggerwood flowers lies against lush moss as I look from my upstairs window A green veil thickens on the branches high above my roof, And the little suns of lions’ teeth shine among violets in my messy spring lawn So life stalks the land and death stalks us. An invisible contagion halts us, holds us prisoner in our homes. Our screens show us images of each other, but we cannot hold images close.
We cannot feel each others’ breath. I see the wrinkles of concern on your sweet skin, love, but I cannot smooth them away with hand or word. We await the issue, helpless, of some event. We wait as March forces open the buds of April. We wait. Em is a teacher, author, trainer, and technical editor and author of Real Talk: A Handbook of Phrasal Verbs and How We Really Talk: Using Phrasal Verbs in English. Find more of her writing at emturnerchitty.com Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 29
Alumni Activities
THE
Alumni Council PRESIDENT Terry Snyder ’85 VICE PRESIDENT Aggie Wright Stephenson ’01 SECRETARY Caroline Graham ’17 BOARD of TRUSTEES REP. Martha Warren StA ’82
W
hile the pandemic limited our opportunities to get together in-person over the last six months, it did provide an opportunity for people to gather regardless of geography as we welcomed VIP guests including SAS Outdoor Education & Place Based Learning Coordinator Michael Short and retired faculty members Sarah Carlos, George Chamberlain, Susan Core, Claire Reishman, and Phil and Jerry White. Beverages & Bites Beverages & Bites are regional events that encourage fellowship among alumni, former faculty and staff, parents, grandparents, prospective families, and friends of the school. Alumni Clubs In addition to hosting Alumni Weekend and the Annual Work Weekend, the Alumni Council continues to support alumni clubs, which have met over the last several years in Western N.C., Mobile, Ala., Columbia, S.C., New York, Knoxville, Boston, Dallas, Memphis, and Washington, D.C.
Be an Organizer or Host Interested in forming an alumni group in your area, hosting an Alumni Event, Club Party, or Regional Beverages & Bites? Contact the Alumni Office at sasalumni@sasweb.org. “Wherever two or more are gathered, let there be an alumni club! Clubs are for all alumni as we share one special heritage that is the Mountain and our time there that connects us, no matter the specific school.” —Leslie Muir ’91, Alumni Council Member
WHAT'S NEW WITH YOU?
EMAIL US: SASALUMNI@SASWEB.ORG 30 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Fall 2020
Ben Beavers SA ’81 Allen Brooks SMA ’69 Lawson Bordley ’91 Dirk Kayitare ’18 Teresa Outlaw StA ’82 Tom Taylor SMA ’64 Liz Gilliam Womack ’02
UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS November 10 Chattanooga Alumni & Friends
November 12 Nashville Alumni & Friends
More information at sasweb.org/alumni
SAVE the DATE
ALUMNI WEEKEND 2021 June 4-6
Schedule and Registration Information will be posted to sasweb.org/alumni in January.
Fall 2020 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 31
St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School
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Preparing for the Next Step
Commencement and Honors Day 2020 celebrations were forced online by the pandemic, but we gathered our major award winners for a mid-summer photograph. Clockwise from the top: Day Student Award recipient Harrison Hartman (Trinity University); Boarding Student Award recipient George Meng (The University of the South); Sewanee Military Academy Memorial Merit Award recipient Saje Mangru (University of Chicago); and Head of School’s Cup recipient Sarah Beth Hobby 32 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee · Fall 2020 (Macalaster College). Gabriel PongdeeMagazine (Vanderbilt University) was this year’s valedictorian, and Aidan Smith (Gonzaga University) was the salutatorian.