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 . spr i ng 2 018
Walking Together, Lifted to Hope
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ANSWER ON PAGE 9
Spring 2018
St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School Magazine Published twice a year by St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School
6
Campus News FEATURES
Refuge, 12 Seeking Forced to Flee
16 (Re)Introducing Associate Head of
School Kelley Black
Little Trail 18 The That Could Chair 27 Introducing of the Board of Trustees Bruce Baird ALUMNI
22 Class Notes The Rt. Rev. John Bauerschmidt, Bishop of Tennessee, came to campus to confirm senior Sophie Swallow.
28 Alumni Activities
From the Head of School St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School Magazine
Making Caring Common
W
hen I arrived at St. Andrew’sSewanee School last year, I was struck by what a close and caring community existed here. The school’s mission, to make this opportunity available to those who might not otherwise have access to an education of this quality and to inspire students to lead lives of honor and loving service to God and to others, informs all that we do.
In March, we joined a new national initiative from Harvard Susan & Karl Sjolund University to further live out that mission by intentionally modeling civil discourse and striving to encourage our students to be more engaged citizens and volunteers. (See page 7.) Of course, it did not take Harvard’s suggestion for us to get involved in our community. This year, our students have volunteered at food ministries and elementary schools, provided senior citizens with recreation and company, cared for unwanted animals, collected coats for people who needed them, helped build homes for the homeless, and raised money for a local family that lost their home. In addition to these organized activities, I have seen countless moments of them taking care of one another. Our “caught doing something good” feature on Facebook barely scratched the surface of their kindness. At SAS, students have their heads up and are seeing and meeting the needs in our community. Our goal continues to be to encourage and support their efforts and send them out into the world to spread loving kindness.
Karl J. Sjolund Head of School
4 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Fall 2017
Published twice 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 Alumni Relations Elizabeth Duncan StA ’76 Director of Admission Derek Perkins Director of Development Jay Howard 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: Sandy Bryant, Robie Jackson, Shannon Patrick, Tracy Randolph, Genevieve Rogers, Rosemary Walters 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 Lizzie Sluser ’20 and Nneka Okolo ’20 walk together along Betsy’s Path at the center of campus. The phrase “walking together, lifted to hope” refers to the Rev. Molly Short’s Ash Wednesday sermon which can be read at www.sasweb.org/faculty_voices.
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April 18
Spring Concert McCrory Hall for the Performing Arts instagram.com/standrewssewanee
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Join the Conversation.
April 20
Board of Trustees Meeting Voice Recital by Carolyn Bruce '18 McCrory Hall for the Performing Arts
April 27
Boston Alumni Club Event My uncle and my Aunt Beulah ran the post office/candy store back in the 50s and 60s. I remember going in the store across from StA, as a small boy and my Aunt would let me and my brother pick out candy from the large jars. We were THRILLED! –Gary Anderson StA ’71 In response to a story on Michael Vaughan ’21 fixing a classroom pencil sharpener: I need his number. I am a house rehaber, and, well, he is a perfect fit! Tell him he has a job when he graduates from college! –Ashley Dryden ’82
In response to a photo of Coach Margot Burns: One of the best soccer coaches I’ve ever known! What she demands out of players brings the best! Great work, Coach! –Jan Williams Stevens ’95, current parent In response to the notice of Thomas Seddon's death (see page 20): Here's to Thomas Seddon. He changed my life for the better. From classroom to fencing to simply setting an example of academics in action. It always impressed me, with his high academic achievements, that he chose to teach young people. –Miles Powell StA ’79
May 4
Senior Alumni Association Induction McCrory Hall for the Performing Arts
May 7
8th Grade "This I Believe" Presentation McCrory Hall for the Performing Arts
May 9
Spring Athletic Awards McCrory Hall for the Performing Arts
May 18-20
Commencement Weekend
June 1-2
Alumni Weekend
June 22
Friday Nights in the Park with Stray Fossa: Nick Evans '10, Will Evans '12 & Zach Blount '12 Downtown Sewanee
July 20-21 International knitwear consultant, Conley Averett ’09, spoke to students interested in fashion, design, and the fashion industry, when he was on campus in February. Conley’s visit was in conjunction with his exhibition in the SAS Gallery.
Alumni Work Weekend
August 18
Opening Weekend
September 29
Upper School & Boarding Family Weekend See the ad on page 9 for all of this year's summer camps and programs!
Stay up-to-date on the latest events: www.sasweb.org/calendar
Campus News
Three Receive Governor’s School Invitations Three students received highly coveted invitations to the Tennessee Governor’s Schools, summer programs for gifted and talented high school students. Kathryn Bridgers ’19, a boarding student from Sylva, N.C., and daughter of Sean Bridgers ’86 was accepted to the Governor’s School for the Visual Arts at Middle Tennessee State University. Sophia Hartman ’19, Sophia Patterson ’19, day students from Sewanee, were accepted to the School for the Humanities at UT-Martin and the School for International Studies at University of Memphis. Hartman will attend International Studies. Patterson will attend Humanities.
Starting College Early This semester, a dozen SAS students are taking college courses at the University of the South in Psychology, Physics, Mathematics, French, Religion, and German. Thanks to a longstanding agreement between SAS and the University, SAS students can enroll in college classes for free. Juniors and seniors ready for the challenge are learning to excel in a college setting, balance a college course workload, and communicate with college professors. And, they earn college credit. Twenty percent of the Class of 2017 graduated with college credit.
Students Return to Jamaica for 6th Year Twelve SAS students, accompanied by teachers Michael Short and Luke Diamond, travelled to Kingston, Jamaica, over spring break. The program, begun in 2012, gives students an opportunity to provide service to the Trench Town, Boys' Town, and Riverton communities. Over the years, SAS students have rebuilt a roof for a family of four, tutored preschool age children and assisted their teachers, painted and contributed to the upkeep of a large school room and locker room for the Boys' Town soccer club, replaced and rebuilt the stands for the Boys' Town soccer team, and worked with severely handicapped children at a residential center.
6 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Spring 2018
Sharing the Joy of Performance
The Middle School music classes and Upper School Vocal and Guitar Ensembles presented their winter concert in December in McCrory Hall for the Performing Arts. More than 80 students participated in the performance which, in addition to voice and guitar, included percussion, violin, keyboard, recorder, and piano. The winter theatre production, Kaleidoscope, featured a collection of original student-created word and movement pieces presented by an ensemble of twenty-one students. The ensemble, including students from 7th to 12th grade, spent months meeting, journaling, moving, and sharing to provide glimpses of individual and collective creativity.
Making Tragedy Bear-able
Kendale James ’20, a day student from Tracy City, Tenn., was named a 2017-2018 Governor’s Volunteer Star.
Kendale was recognized for initiating and implementing a county-wide program to provide “Buddy Bears” to children who have experienced a traumatic event. The program collects new or very gently used small stuffed animals for police officers to carry in their patrol cars. The toys are distributed to children after car accidents, house fires, being removed from their home, or being a witness to an event that scares them. Kendale set up collection boxes around the county and encouraged donations through flyers and Facebook posts. In the first three months, more than 500 animals were collected. The bears are distributed by officers of the Grundy County Sheriff ’s Office and the Monteagle Police Department.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration SAS celebrated the life and work of Martin Luther King Jr. with two days of special events spearheaded by history department coordinator Geoffrey Smith. On Sunday, January 14, the Rev. Francis Walter presented “Reflections on Selma and the Early Civil Rights
Movement” in St. Andrew’s Chapel. Fr. Walter and his wife, Faye, were active in the Selma Inter-religious Project and the Freedom Quilting Bee. Fr. Walter read a chapter from his forthcoming book and shared photographs from the period. Later that day, students had the opportunity to view “Lee Daniels’ The Butler” at the Sewanee Union Theatre. On Sunday evening, the Compline service included themed readings. On Monday morning, Head of School Karl Sjolund delivered a sermon inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and work. Throughout the day, the school community explored global and local activism and religion, politics, and civil rights through faculty and student presentations. An exhibition of art prints inspired by themes of social justice was displayed in the academic building, and the students gathered for a reception during the morning break in classes. Over a lunch of Martin Luther King Jr.’s favorite foods, students, faculty and staff participated in activities and discussions to mark the day.
seeks to deepen students’ care for others and their communities; increase equity and access for all students in the college admissions process; and reduce excessive achievement pressure. Participating schools commit to taking substantial action to advance one or more of the campaign’s goals. The school's specific commitments include assuring and expanding ongoing funding for families with demonstrated financial need; formalizing a schedule for more techfree social opportunities for students; expanding service opportunities for the school community; creating a statement and action plan for diversity and enhanced student support; and creating a system for holistic needs assessments and response for new students.
Reynolds Named to TSTA Board
Making Caring Common SAS is among the first schools to join Harvard’s Making Caring Common project. The Caring Schools #CommonGood campaign aims to motivate schools to take action to help mend our country’s fractures and strengthen democracy. The campaign
Dr. Viva Reynolds, a member of the science faculty (featured in the Fall 2017 SAS Magazine), has been appointed to serve on the Board of Directors for the Tennessee Science Teachers Association (TSTA). Dr. Reynolds is one of two representatives for District 6, which represents 14 counties. “This is a good opportunity for SAS to be represented at a state level organization,” said Dr. Reynolds. “I hope to network with science teachers in our district in a way that highlights our commitment to science education here at SAS.” Continued
Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 7
Campus News
Dr. Reynolds, who joined the SAS faculty in 2016, teaches middle school science, geology, and technology. She received her B.A. in geography from California State University, an M.A. from the University of Wyoming, and a Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky. Before coming to SAS, she taught public school in south central Los Angeles and at the community college and state university levels in North Carolina.
Becca Stevens Delivers Bishop Reynolds Forum The Rev. Becca Stevens, an author, speaker, priest, social entrepreneur, and founder and president of Thistle Farms, was this year’s Bishop Reynolds Forum speaker. Becca spoke to the student body on the morning of April 10 and in a public lecture that evening.
In 1997, Becca, a 1985 graduate of the University of the South, began her ministry to provide a supportive home to women who had experienced trafficking, violence, and addiction. Thistle Farms has grown to provide housing, medical care, therapy, and education. Residents and graduates earn income through one of four social enterprises. Thistle Farms’ global market helps employ more than 1,800 women worldwide. Becca has been featured in The New York Times, on ABC World News and NPR, and was named a 2016 CNN Hero and a White House “Champion of Change.” She was featured in the PBS documentary A Path Appears. Her newest book, Love Heals, was published by Harper Collins in September of 2017.
The Bishop Reynolds Forum brings a prominent speaker to campus each year to engage students and the community in a topic chosen by the students. The Forum was established through an endowment in memory of the Rt. Rev. George Reynolds SMA ’45, the late Bishop of Tennessee, former chaplain of the Sewanee Military Academy, a former trustee, and parent of Katherine Reynolds ’88. In the forums of his ministry, he was guided by the belief that thoughtful and open address of issues and conflicts created personal growth, moral strength, and sound judgement. The Forum topic is chosen by the junior class with the speaker coming to campus during their senior year.
The Rev. Molly Short Named Chaplain Following a national search, the Rev. Molly Short has been chosen to succeed the Rev. Drew Bunting ’93 as Chaplain. Mother Short joined the SAS community in 2014 as a residential house parent. She became assistant chaplain the following year. Mother Short earned her M.Div. magna cum laude from Duke Divinity School, a Diploma in Anglican Studies from the School of Theology of the University of the South, and a B.S. in Earth and Environmental Sciences from Furman University. In addition to her role as assistant chaplain, she currently teaches Religion and Life Issues, is Lead House Parent
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in Warner House and House Program Leader for Gorgas, and serves as liaison to regional Episcopal churches. She is also co-chair of the school’s Empathy and Technology committee. “My love for a fully immersive relational ministry has flourished at SAS,” said Mother Short. “Care for students, staff, and faculty begins with sharing meals in the dining hall, impromptu conversations in the hallway, and encouraging each other to strive for excellence on the athletic field or on the stage.” Mother Short begins her new role in July.
Heard on Campus...
And, it is not just in those life and death moments like the one on the Road to Jericho or a hotel balcony in Memphis. It is also in those moments when you see a friend or even a stranger being treated unfairly, when you have a choice between following your conscience or following the crowd. Are you going to listen to that small voice telling you to take the difficult path, because it is the right path? Will you get off your beast and put the "I" into the "thou"? Because, if you do, then you will be doing the Lord's work. You will be the Good Samaritan. You will be a hero just like Dr. Martin Luther King. –Head of School Karl Sjolund, Martin Luther King Jr. Day Sermon Yes we are mortal. Yes we are finite. And yet, each and every life is precious to God. The dust and ash you and I are made of is something to hold in reverence. You are that beloved dust. When we use ash to mark our foreheads, we are acknowledging with reverence the beauty and delicate nature of life. This ritual gives you an opportunity to remember and recognize that you are a finite being, made of elements that will all decay to dirt and ash—yet your life still has beauty, importance, and meaning. –The Rev. Molly Short, Asst. Chaplain, Ash Wednesday Sermon
QUIZ ANSWER
Students in Mr. Miller’s Environmental Science class estimated the height of standing timber based on the angle of observation as part of their forestry unit. They are learning to calculate board feet based on stands of trees. Don’t worry! This is just theoretical.
Each summer, hundreds of children and adults enjoy St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School.
❂ Make this the summer you give yourself the gift of SAS. MAY 29-JUNE 1 BASKETBALL CAMP
JUNE 11-17 THE BOARDING SCHOOL EXPERIENCE
JUNE 4-8 WATERFALLS & SWIMMING HOLES
JUNE 18-22 APPALACHIAN ADVENTURE
JUNE 7-9 SHAKERAG WORKSHOPS KNITTING GETAWAY
JUNE 23-27 SHAKERAG WORKSHOPS SESSION II
JUNE 11-15 SOCCER CAMP
JULY 2-3 ALL-SPORTS CAMP
JUNE 11-16 SHAKERAG WORKSHOPS SESSION I
AUGUST 3-17 ENGLISH LANGUAGE IMMERSION
WWW.SASWEB.ORG/SUMMER Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 9
Sports Highlights FALL 2017
WINTER 2018 Smashing Swim Records
They’re All-That Dustin Stensby ’18, son of Jessica Stensby ’98, was named to the 2017 Varsity Football Middle Tennessee Athletic Conference (MTAC) Regular Season AllConference Team. Aubrey Black ’18 was named to the TSSAA Division II East District 2-A All-District Golf Team.
The swim team broke two school records at the State swim meet. Catherine Gray ’18 set a new record in the 100 Back (1:06.09) and Aidan Smith ’20, Porter Neubauer ’21 (son of
Riding Through the Finish Line The varsity mountain biking team placed 4th in the State Championship race held on the SAS campus. Several riders had outstanding individual performances. Aidan Smith ’20 placed 4th in the JV class at the State Championship race and 5th in the league for the season. Matthew Mollica ’18 placed 3rd in the Varsity class at the Chickasaw Trace race, 4th among varsity riders at the State Championship race, and 4th place overall in the league for the 2017 Varsity season. Luciana Mollica ’21 placed 3rd among freshman at the Lock 4 race.
We Apologize for the Omission In the fall 2017 issue, Anna Post ’20 should have been included among the girls’ varsity tennis players.
Breaking 1000 Basketball season highlights included Blaise Zeitler ’18 scoring his 1000th career point. He finished his SAS career with 1,047 points. Blaise and Nneka Okolo ’20, a member of the girls’ varsity team, received All-District honors.
Big 8 Honors Alex Neubauer ’91), Zolon Knoll ’20 (son of Martin Knoll SA ’78), and Randy Paul ’19 crushed the school record in the 200 Free Relay (1:34.88). At the regional swim meet, the relay team placed 9th in the 200-meter medley relay and the 200 Free. Zolon placed 10th in the 500 Free (5:19.30). During the season, Catherine also set a new school record in 50 Back (31.40), and Aidan set a new school record in the 50 Fly (25.72). The boys’ varsity team finished first in their division and the girls finished second. Middle School swimmer Libby Neubauer ’23 (daughter of Alex Neubauer ’91) set a new school record for the 500 Free (6:49.66).
Kings of the Mountain The wrestling team had excellent finishes at the annual Mountain Top Invitational by Eli Andrews ’20 who placed 1st at 113, Michael Vaughan ’21 who placed 4th at 120, and Bailey McLean ’18 who placed 3rd at 138. Melanie Val ’24 placed 2nd at 90 at the Girls’ Middle School State tournament.
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The Middle School Girls’ Basketball Team finished their season 13-4. Players earning Big 8 Conference honors included: Lakin Laurendine ’23, Defensive Player of the Year; Lakin and Madison King ’23 (daughter of Barbara Gambrell King ’00), All-Conference & All-Tournament selections, Madison, Lucy Cassell ’23, and Nailah Hamilton ’24, All-Star Game selections. Madison was chosen to participate in the girls’ 3-Point Shooting Competition and won. Mac Croom ’22 and Ethan Hargis ’23 (grandson of Dee Underhill Hargis StA ’81) of the Middle School Boys’ Basketball Team were named All-Conference players. Elijah Seavey ’22 and Gus Croom ’22 were chosen to participate in the All-Star Game. Ethan participated in the 3-Point Shooting Competition and won both the boys’ competition and prevailed over the girls’ winner, Madison, to win the final shoot out.
Spring 2016 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Maga-
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n January, the SAS Gallery hosted the work of more than 50 student artists. The exhibition contained works in photography, clay, installation art, drawing, painting, and fashion design. All the pieces were created in upper school visual arts classes during the first semester. The SAS Gallery hosts exhibitions, workshops, and special projects from August through June each year. The exhibition schedule includes solo and group exhibitions by artists from the region and across the nation. Exhibiting artists generally spend at least one day on campus working with students
and one day offering a community workshop. The goal of the gallery program is to introduce the community to a broad range of contemporary art and provide ongoing inspiration for the courses offered by the art department as well as other interdisciplinary curriculum. In addition to the student art show, this year’s exhibitions have included art and design from Austin Reavis ’05, Arlyn Ende, TN-Craft members, and Conley Averett ’09. Learn about upcoming exhibitions and workshops at www.sasweb.org/gallery. Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 11
Seeking Refuge, Forced to Flee
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n February 23, ten SAS students joined students at the University of the South for “Seeking Refuge, Forced to Flee,” a refugee camp simulation brought to Sewanee by Catholic Charities of Tennessee. SAS’s Political Theory with Current History students and other interested upperclassmen participated. The course is co-taught by Geoffrey Smith and Dean of Students Laura Clay.
the challenges refugees endure in their search for a safe home, required participants to go through a daylong simulated experience passing through a border crossing, registration, health services, school, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The UNHCR estimates that there are currently 65.6 million people who are displaced from their homes and 22.5 million refugees. Each day, an average of 28,300 people are forced to flee their homes because of conflict and persecution.
The activity, designed to help participants gain perspective on
We sat down with Mr. Smith’s and Dean Clay’s class to hear what the students took away from the experience.
Ben Mathews ’19: “When we got there it seemed like it was going to be serious. Don’t treat it like a game, they told us. They explained everything really well, and we thought we knew what we had to do.”
Sophia Patterson ’19: “But it was similar to the frustrations that actual refugees would feel. Through the process you realized that even if you did everything right, if you followed the rules, you could still be turned away.”
Bailey McLean ’18: “The volunteer workers were serious, but some of the things they did made it seem like a game. For instance, there was a plastic bug sitting on the table. If someone touched it, they would declare that our whole group now had cholera.”
Genevieve Rogers ’18: “There was no way to develop a survival strategy or game the system. My reaction was to be as polite as possible so that we wouldn’t be put in detention, but other people were getting angry or trying to sneak past the checkpoints.”
Ben: “If you stepped on the wrong line they would make you start the whole process over.”
Sophia: “People would get frustrated because it felt like the rules were always changing, but I think that’s the reality of the process.”
Bailey: “It was really frustrating.” Ananda Janke ’19: “It was hard to stay empathetic to the experience of refuges and not just get annoyed with the simulation.” 12 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Spring 2018
Sam Kennard ’18: “The registration process was also difficult because the workers were speaking another language. If the aid worker didn’t check the right box or there was a
miscommunication we could be sent back to repeat the whole process. It was clear that the goal was empathy, but, while we were experiencing the process, the main feeling was frustration. For me empathy came later as I reflected on the day.” Mr. Smith: “During the debriefing they explained that translation was available, but the refugee would have been expected to request it. We didn’t know to do that. They said that Sewanee was the first place where no one thought to request a translation.”
the experience from the perspective of the individual who is caught up in it.” Sophia: “There’s an incredible number of things you have to do before you can even get admitted to a refugee camp. And then you can be there for years before you get resettled in a more permanent home. This was just a simulation. One day. Imagine if we had been on the road for weeks. Hungry. Fearful for our lives or the lives of our family and friends. The frustration we felt had to be just a hint of what it’s really like”
Genevieve: “They also said this was the first simulation where no one tried to bribe an ‘official.’” Larson Heitzenrater ’19: “We’ve studied the facts of the world’s refugee crisis. We know that the world is currently dealing with the largest number of displaced persons since the end of World War II, but the simulation allowed us to see
The simulation was sponsored by the University of the South’s Politics Department, Office of Global Citizenship, Office of Civic Engagement, and Center for Teaching. SAS is grateful to have had the opportunity to participate. Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 13
Winterim The SAS community suspended regular classes for the week of February 5-9 for an outbreak of creativity, adventure, and hands-on learning.
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ach February, SAS takes a break from normal studies to engage in a week of short courses based on the interests and passions of students, faculty, and staff. Some of this year’s courses explored science and technology, such as Middle School Maker Challenge, biotechnology, and astronomy. Popular culture courses introduced students to classic philosophy through Game of Thrones, compared the Harry Potter books and films, and offered deep dives into the anime films of Hayao Miyazaki, classic cinema, and sci-fi movies. Guest teachers Dee Eichler and Brown Hobson brought new skills to campus with courses in psychology and fly tying.
Students explored their creativity in a variety of media, including clay, painting and drawing, knitting, architecture, audio story-making, radio, video, and music. Some students spent half of each day providing food, home repair, and company to residents of our area. Other students gained important life skills such as learning to fix home electronics, play popular board games and futsal (a form of indoor soccer), iron a dress shirt, tie a tie, and raise vegetables and animals. Cooking courses are always popular, and students had their choice of the science of cooking, grilling, and Korean, Spanish, and Chinese cuisines.
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The week was also an opportunity for students to explore the region. Groups of students participated in an ongoing archaeological survey on campus, explored area caves, ventured to historically significant spots in nearby Grundy County, and visited the Ralston Listening Library and art galleries at the University of the South. One group of students spent the week braving rain and cold to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail. At midweek, the SAS community enjoyed a Chapel talk by guest speaker Matt Reynolds, Associate Director of Archives and Special Collections at the University of the South. Mr. Reynolds spoke about his circuitous educational path and the way his current job and hobbies combine his interests and passions. The week ended with an allschool celebration in which students shared their week’s experiences.
Head of the Upper School Kelley Black, who taught a course on biotechnology, carefully guards regular classroom instructional time at SAS, but she believes Winterim is a great way to help students and teachers make it through the dark days of winter and provide an opportunity for everyone to explore new areas of interest. “Sometimes Winterim courses even become a good way to test courses for future inclusion in the regular SAS curriculum. This year’s robotics course is a perfect example.” Hannah Warmbrod ’21, a day student from Belvidere, Tenn., participated in the Design Challenge: Architecture and Voyage to Space classes. “It was fun to do things that we don’t usually get to do and to take a break from regular classes. In my architecture course I got to design a tiny house. It was a totally new experience for me.”
Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 15
(Re)
Introducing
Associate Head of School
T
he day Kelley Black visited the University of the South in her senior year of high school was an iconic Sewanee day. “The fog was so thick, that we couldn’t see the exterior of any of the buildings,” Kelley remembers. Her parents were sure that their child, dismayed by the lack
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of sunlight, would go back to considering the universities in her home state of Georgia. To their surprise, when she got back in the car, she said, “I’m going to Sewanee.” The sense of community and belonging that won her over on that foggy day brought her back to Sewanee in 2007 when
her husband, Robert, accepted a coaching position at the University. She was then the mother of two young children and liked the idea of raising them in a small and supportive community. Kelley arrived in Sewanee with ten years of teaching experience at three very different schools, San Antonio’s TMI-Episcopal School and Nashville’s Montgomery Bell Academy and Oak Hill School. Hired at SAS in 2007 as a temporary replacement for a teacher on leave, Kelley’s great desire to learn, strong curiosity about living things, and aspiration to help others led to more substantial assignments. Over the years, Kelley has taught science, history, English, and math and served as assistant technology director. In 2008, she led the SAS girls’ tennis team to a Division II Class A state tennis title and was named TSSAA D-II Coach of the Year. When then Academic Dean Jeff Bell was looking for someone to spearhead the new Learning Resources initiative in 2011, he put his trust in Kelley. “Creating the Learning Resources Center was a source of great satisfaction,” recalls Kelley. “Teaching students better study habits, such as organizing and prioritizing their school work is a priority for me.” Kelley is grateful for the mentorship she received. “Jeff helped me develop confidence in my abilities. I learned that I really like formulating missions and goals and seeing projects to fruition.”
Kelley Black
Designing the LRC gave Kelley an appreciation for what can be accomplished when one steps into an administrative role. With Jeff Bell’s departure in 2013, Kelley was appointed Interim Director of Studies. “Interim” was soon stripped away. Director of Studies became Head of Upper School. In April of 2018, Head of School Karl Sjolund announced that Kelley
"Teaching students better study habits, such as organizing and prioritizing is a priority for me." would become the next Academic Dean and Associate Head of School, responsible for the overall academic program and second in command to the Head of School. “As a multi-talented classroom teacher and a veteran administrator, Kelley is the ideal Academic Dean,” offers Head of School Karl Sjolund. “She has helped to craft our curriculum and deeply understands what we are trying to accomplish in the classroom. She is smart and wise, levelheaded, trustworthy, and approachable. And, she makes great decisions. It's hard to imagine having a steadier hand in the role of Associate Head.” Kelley enjoys having a leadership role at SAS. “We are not afraid of change here,” she notes. “We find a way to balance tradition with forward thinking. Being small allows us to be nimble.” Despite her increasing responsibilities, Kelley will continue to teach and coach. “I love the students’ energy. Seeing the kids engaged in my Advanced Biology class and happy on the tennis courts is reinvigorating after a day of administrative duties.” Kelley’s son, Aubrey, is now an SAS senior and her daughter, Jenna, is a freshman. As both an educator and a parent, she values the school’s core principles. She has seen her children grow under the loving care of the SAS faculty, and she is grateful for the opportunities SAS has provided for her to grow as an educator. “Early in my career here, I worked with a young man who had come to SAS as a refugee. I saw the incredible commitment of the school to this child. The SAS community loves and shepherds its students. We take pride in how so many different types of students, so many personalities and interests, thrive. Students are comfortable with one another. And, because of that comfort, they are willing to take educational, creative, and social risks without fear of being ridiculed. We have so much to be proud of. “As Academic Dean, my goal is to continue to strengthen our academic offerings,” Kelley promises. “But SAS is about so much more than academics. We are about relationships and community and belonging. We are about being a vibrant and sustainable learning community that educates children in every way. My goal is for us to produce well prepared graduates who go on to be happy, generous, and fulfilled adults.” Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 17
The Little Trail That Could T
David Allen StA ’77 gives Zach Blount ’12 a lift during the 2012 Alumni Weekend rolling concert.
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he Mountain Goat Trail, first proposed in 1986, made little progress until SAS junior Ian Prunty ’01 appeared on the scene. Ian was excited by the idea of linking downtown Sewanee to the St. Andrew’s-Sewanee campus with a paved pathway that utilized the route of the old Mountain Goat Railroad tracks. The venture would take ten years to come to fruition. Sixteen years later, it is hard to imagine life without the trail, and what began as 1.8 miles to connect two ends of one community is about to become a 10.8 mile trail connecting three towns in three counties. In October 2017, local officials and representatives of the Mountain Goat Trail Alliance broke ground on a 1.2-mile section of the trail that will extend from Tracy City City Hall to Tracy City Elementary School in nearby Grundy County. Lawson Bordley ’91 is helping to build two additional sections, Tracy City Elementary School to Ingman Farm Road and Ingman Farm Road to DuBose Conference Center in Monteagle. Lawson’s engineering firm, Robert G. Campbell & Associates in Knoxville, Tenn., won the design contract for those two stretches of the trail. Lawson brought in Jason Barry ’00 and his dad, Mike Barry StA ’69, to do the surveying work, knowing that the Barrys would provide valuable insight with their intimate knowledge of the mountain and their previous work on the project. The Mountain Goat Railroad was constructed in 1855 to link Cowan to St. Andrew’s as a secondary track of the Nashville & Chattanooga Railroad. With a climb of about 100 feet per mile, the tracks were purported to be the steepest railroad line in the world at the time. The line would eventually be expanded to carry coal and passengers among Cowan, Sewanee, Tracy City, Coalmont, Gruetli-Laager, and Palmer. It was decommissioned in 1985. In 2001, Ian found a useful ally in Doug Cameron SMA ’65. Doug had been involved in the late 1980s’ attempts to get the project started and became familiar with the Rails to Trails efforts across the country when he was working for then Tennessee Governor Lamar Alexander’s Tennesseans Outdoors initiative. CSX, which had most recently owned the railroad, had deeded much of the land to the University of the South, seeing little value in the non-commercial portions of the right-of-way. The only other significant property owners along the Sewanee to SAS route were the Medford Family, which also had close ties to SAS. With the help of then Franklin County mayor and SAS
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Lawson Bordley ’91 is project engineer on the latest segments of the trail.
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past parent Monty Adams, Ian began applying for grants. They received a $50,000 grant to grade and pave the trail, but the grant required a $10,000 match. That is when another alumnus came to the rescue, trustee Richard Manship SMA ’64. Richard provided a lead gift and was joined by Sewanee residents, SAS parents, and SAS alumni in providing the funds to match the state’s contribution. Jason Barry ’00 assesses the Over the years, the Mountain Goat next segment of the Trail. Trail would find many more allies on the SAS campus. Janice Thomas, former school nurse and wife of then Head of School John Thomas, guided the Alliance as it acquired the 2.65 mile easement and 22 acres to extend the trail from SAS to Tracy City. She also recruited the talent of former SAS history and English teacher Patrick Dean who became the Alliance’s chief spokesperson and first executive director. Over the years students have been GRUETLILAAGER involved as trail volunteers and users, with some students commuting to school each day along the trail. A highlight for the SAS-Mountain Goat Trail partnership was the 2012 SAS Alumni Weekend rolling concert organized by Stuart Harrod ’82 and featuring the music of Nick Evans ’10, Will Evans ’12, and Zach Blount ’12, who played perched on the back of bikes with their audience riding behind. “This is a career highlight project for me,” said Lawson. “My father was involved in some of the early scheming about this, and I rode the rather unsafe Airport Road to school before the trail existed. I have little doubt that when the trail is completed from Cowan to Palmer that it will be a regional draw and an economic game changer for Grundy County. I take great satisfaction in being involved.” The limited project conceived of when Ian was a junior in high school did not come into being until the summer between his junior and senior year at DePauw University. In those four years, Ian learned quite a bit about patience, but SAS had prepared him for that lesson. “At SAS I was taught that service isn’t just what you accomplish. It’s seeing how people build on what others have begun,” explained Ian. “It’s wonderful how the Mountain Goat Trail has grown more than I ever imagined.”
1 Y4 HW S. U.
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.5
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Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 19
In Memoriam
Past Employees and Friends Roy Karl Bunce died February 11, 2018. Mr. Bunce served as the director of development for St. Andrew’s School from 1975-1978. He met his wife, Vicki Deal, at the school’s AWASA summer program where she taught art. Mr. Bunce earned a BA in English, history, and theater from Defiance College, and an MDiv from Andover Newton Theological Seminary. Following serving the United Church of Christ in New Hampshire, he ran a national campaign to raise funds for historically black colleges and began a long career in institutional advancement. He founded his own consulting firm in 1981 with clients in 17 states and four countries. In 1993, he began work with the International Space University. From 1997 until his retirement in 2005, he served in several positions including director of development for Hampshire College. Mr. Bunce is survived by his wife, four children, four grandchildren, and extended family. Thomas E. Seddon died March 20, 2018, at his home in Tularosa, N.M. Born in West Virginia, Mr. Seddon spent his early years living abroad with his missionary parents. He earned a BS in physics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and completed his master's in science education at Cornell University. Mr. Seddon’s career spanned 35 years, teaching physics, mathematics, astronomy, statistics, and physical, earth, and computer sciences at schools and colleges. He taught at St. Andrew’s School from 1975 to 1981 and served as interim headmaster. Mr. Seddon was named a New Mexico Christa McAuliffe Fellow and authored books and articles on science for young people. He also had roles in amateur productions and worked in technical theater and scenic design. As an amateur astronomer, he worked three summers at the National Solar Observatory, contributing to the mathematical modeling of the chromosphere. He is survived by his wife, Jeanette Gay Sullivent; sons, Matthew Thomas Seddon ‘86 and James Edward Seddon; two grandchildren, two siblings, and extended family. Everett H. Smith died January 21, 2018, in Fletcher N.C. Mr. Smith was the business manager at Sewanee Academy from 1973 to 1981. He also ran the school store and served with his wife as head dormitory supervisor
in Quintard Hall from 1974 to 1978. In 1981, he became business manager at Christ School in Arden, N.C. Mr. Smith is survived by his daughters, Stephanie Milder SA ’82 and Pamella Smith SA ’83, and two grandchildren.
Alumni Floyd Hurt Fulkerson, Jr. SMA ’39 died on October 30, 2017. He completed a year of college at the University of the South and transferred to the University of Arkansas. In 1942, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces. He was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant, awarded his pilot wings in 1943, and was deployed to Port Moresby, New Guinea. Later assigned to the 431st Fighter Squadron, he flew combat missions with the new P-38 twin-engine fighter aircraft. He was awarded the Silver Star from the U.S. Navy, the Bronze Combat Star by the U.S. Army, the Flying Cross with Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Medal, and two Purple Heart medals. Returning to Arkansas, Lt. Fulkerson spent four years serving in the National Guard, flying P-31s. He retired from military service in 1950 and assumed management of the family business, Baucum Plantation. He was a real estate developer and is credited with establishing the Longlea and Pleasant Valley Neighborhoods and the Second Presbyterian Church. He is survived by his wife, Brenda Mitchell Fulkerson; his sister; three children; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. Marvin K. Margo SMA ’41 died February 10, 2018. He attended the University of Oklahoma and graduated from OU School of Medicine in 1948. Dr. Margo served in the Army during World War II and in the Air Force during the Korean War. He practiced orthopedic surgery at the McBride Clinic/Bone & Joint Hospital in Oklahoma City from 1951 until his retirement in 1986. He was president of the Oklahoma County Medical Society and the Oklahoma State Medical Association. Survivors include two sons, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and extended family. Allan J. English, Jr. SMA ’43 died Nov. 24, 2017. He graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1949 and received his MS in international affairs from George Washington University. Col. English served in the Korean War as platoon leader of the 17th Infantry of the 7th Division, as Aide to the Commandant at West Point, and as a Company Commander
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in Germany. He had stateside tours as a Battalion, Brigade, and Group Commander. He ended his active duty at the National Security Agency, retiring in 1979. Col. English settled in Annapolis with his wife, Audrey Berman English, and launched his civilian career as a real estate investor and entrepreneur. He founded the West Point Society of Annapolis, and was an active member of the U.S. Naval Academy Foundation. Col. English was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, and two awards of the Purple Heart. He is survived by his daughter, granddaughter, and extended family. Robert S. Mellon SMA ’43 died on Oct. 12, 2017. After serving in the U.S. Army Air Corps for three years, he graduated with a BA in economics from the University of the South in 1949. He earned his JD in 1954 from the Law School at Tulane University. In 2001, Mr. Mellon received a BFA in studio art from Louisiana State University. As an attorney, he represented the City of Denham Springs, La., the Towns of Walker and Livingston, Livingston Parish Police Jury, the School Board and the Housing Authority, and was an early ally in the civil rights movement. He retired from practice in 1975. He served on the boards of the Denham Springs Economic District and the Amite River Basin Commission, was president of Bocage Racquet Club, and was founding president of the Livingston Parish Arts Council and the Historic River Road Neighborhood Association. Mr. Mellon is survived by his wife, Helen Troy Mellon; three sons; four stepchildren; grandchildren; and one great-grandson. Charles H. McNutt SMA ’46 died Dec. 9, 2017. Dr. McNutt lived in Memphis, Tenn. He was an accomplished archaeologist and professor emeritus at the University of Memphis, where he taught from 1964 to 1998. He was educated at the University of New Mexico, the University of Michigan, and the University of the South. He conducted fieldwork and published on the archaeology of the American Southwest and the Great Plains in South Dakota. He ran an archaeological consulting firm that ensured that any new dig sites were free of artifacts. He was instrumental in the creation of the SMA Class of 1946 Junior Leadership Award given each year at SAS Honors Day. Dr. McNutt was predeceased by
his wife, Phoebe Russell McNutt SMS ’48. He is survived by his son, daughter, and grandchildren. Gerald “Doug” Fitz-Gerald StA ’47 died October 6, 2017. Mr. Fitz-Gerald lived in South Pittsburg, Tenn. He was a 1968 graduate of John A. Gupton Mortuary College and a longtime member of Holly Avenue United Methodist Church, the Eastern Star, York Rite Bodies, and a 33rd degree member of the Chattanooga Scottish Rite and Alhambra Temple. He was a 50-year member, past master, and longtime secretary of Marion Lodge #515 F&AM. Mr. Fitz-Gerald was a lifelong employee of Rogers Funeral Home. He served as Marion County Executive from 1980 to 1988. He also served as a Justice of the Peace and was a longtime Marion County Commissioner. He is survived by a son, a daughter, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. Harry D. Knight StA ’47 died on February 22, 2018. He studied at the College of William and Mary, North Carolina State, and the International City Manager’s Institute. In 1956, he began his career with the City of Newport News and was named director of Parks and Recreation in 1963. He was an accomplished baseball player and coach, taking two baseball teams to the national tournament and winning the state Little League tournament twice. He later worked with AnheuserBusch’s Kingsmill development on The James in Williamsburg, Va. He rose to vice president of Busch Properties and general manager of Kingsmill, a position he held until his retirement in 1991. He was a lifetime sponsor and leader of Ducks Unlimited, serving on its board and as national president in 1988. He also served as vice president of the Ducks Unlimited Foundation, now known as Wetlands America Trust. Other civic duties included past president of the Peninsula Kiwanis Club, the advisory board of Old Point National Bank, and member of the Chesapeake Bay Advisory Committee. Mr. Knight is survived by his wife, Deal; two daughters; one son; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. LeRoy N. Radebaugh SMA ’48 of Lincolnton, N.C., died March 23, 2017. He was the owner of the former Town Square Ford dealership. He is survived by three sons, a daughter, grandchildren, and extended family.
Richard N. Burnside SMA ’51 of Blythewood, S.C., passed away March 4, 2018. He served in the U.S. Army and graduated from the University of South Carolina. He was the owner of Burnside Dodge and a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. He is survived by his wife, Mary Reese Burnside; two daughters; five grandchildren; greatgrandchildren; and extended family. Donald M. Tarnow SMA ’52 of Tampa, Fla., died Feb. 2, 2018. He owned Tarnow's Portion Foods in Dunedin. He is survived by his brothers, Paul A. Tarnow, Jr. SMA ’51 and Jerry W. Tarnow SMA ’57, and one sister. Henry P. “Harry” Allendorph, Jr. SMA ’53 died Feb. 12, 2018. He served in the U.S. Army for two years and graduated from The University of Southern Mississippi. His oilfield sales career included stints at National Supply, Wilson Supply, and Varco Oil Tools, where he worked for 22 years. In 1986, he and his wife started Allendorph Specialties, for which he worked until his retirement in 2016. He was active in several groups including the Lions Club. He is survived by two sons, two daughters, a sister, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Richard I. Lowndes III StA ’54 of Estill Springs, Tenn., died October 13, 2017. He received bachelor and master’s degrees in aeronautical engineering from Georgia Tech, and pursued doctoral studies in civil engineering at Vanderbilt University. Mr. Lowndes was an aeronautical engineer at Arnold Engineering Development Center and at TRW Systems in Houston. He was a civil engineer in private practice. He was a registered land surveyor in Tennessee and a registered professional engineer in four states. He was a member of the Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers, the National Society of Professional Engineers, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and was certified nationally by the Structural Engineers Certification Board. In 2004, he was named Outstanding Engineer of the Year by the Tullahoma Chapter of the Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers. He was also a member of the Tennessee Association of Professional Surveyors and the Surveyor’s Historical Society. He was a licensed pilot and scuba diver. He is survived by his wife, Laura Gray Lowndes; a son and daughter; grandchildren; and extended family. The family indicated that memorial
donations may be made to several institutions including St. Andrew'sSewanee School. John Philip Storck, Jr. SMA ’55 died on December 30, 2017. He earned a BS in education from SUNY-Oneonta and an MS in clinical psychology from the University of Wisconsin where he was a professor of psychology. Moving to Ontario, Ore., he shifted to clinical practice and administration and served as the director of several mental health clinics before returning to teaching. In 1996, he retired from Treasure Valley Community College after 25 years as a psychology instructor, three-time teacher of the year, and track and field coach. In 2004 he moved to Surprise, Ariz. In 2012, he returned to Oregon. Mr. Storck is survived by his sister; wife, Tammy Storck; ex-wife, Suzanne Trackman and their three children; grandchildren; and one great-grandson. Rardon D. Bevill III SMA ’56 of Ft. Collins, Colo., died on Oct. 5, 2017. He was a graduate of Washington and Lee University and received a PhD in biochemistry from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Bevill served in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1968, where he attained the rank of Captain in the Medical Service Corp. He worked for Vickers in the early development of medical blood testing machines and as a commodities broker for more than 30 years. He is survived by two daughters, one son, and grandchildren. John T. Boyd, Jr. SMA ’61 died November 9, 2017. He attended Mercer University. In 1963, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he served until 1966. He joined Goldens’ Foundry & Machine Company and retired as vice president of sales in 2014. Mr. Boyd is survived by his wife, Sandra Griffin Boyd; four children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and extended family. James H. Birdsall StA ’63 died November 19, 2017 in Mission Viejo, Calif. He served in the U.S. Navy for eight years receiving a Bronze Star from the Vietnam Campaign. Mr. Birdsall worked in power plant construction and operations with Bechtel Power Co. and retired in 2006. He is survived by his adopted father; his wife, Corkie Birdsall; two brothers and one sister; one daughter and one son; a step-daughter and step-son; and extended family.
Charles W. Sampley, Jr. SMA ’63 passed away in Omaha, Neb., on Jan. 6, 2018. He is survived by his wife, Beverly; three sons; one sister; and grandchildren. David N. McCullough, Jr. SMA ’64 died September 10, 2017, in Sacramento, Calif.. He attended the University of Alabama and graduated with a BS from Livingston University in 1969. He received a BA from the Savannah College of Art and Design in 1985 and did post-graduate work in architectural history at the University of Virginia. He received an MA from Georgia Southern University in 1994. Mr. McCullough was vice president of Dallas Beverage Bottling Co., in Selma, Ala., and president of the Selma-Dallas County Historic Preservation Society. He served on numerous boards, including Selma-Dallas County Historic Preservation Society, Alabama Historical Commission, Historic Preservation Coastal Regional Planning and Development, and the Joint Historic Preservation Commission for Transylvania County in Brevard, N.C. He was a member of the Society of Colonial Wars, Historic Savannah Foundation, and the North Central Information Center at California State University, which is connected to the California Office of Historic Preservation-Sacramento. He is survived by his partner, Joseph Tuschak; his sister; and extended family. W. Grayson Neve SMA ’64 died February 24, 2017, in Monteagle, Tenn. He was a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Dr. Neve practiced dentistry for more than 25 years in Cleveland, Tenn. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club and an active choir member at his church and enjoyed playing golf. He is survived by his wife, Jimmie Jeanne Neve; one son; two grandchildren; two brothers; and extended family. John A. Bryant SMA ’65 died February 18, 2018, in Washington, D.C. A native of Shreveport, La., he was educated at Centenary College and the Pratt Institute. A registered architect, he worked in New York City for the firms of Samuel De Santo, Daniel Goldner, Butler Rogers Basket, Maurice Saragoussi, and Swanke Hayden Connell. He also worked for the New York City’s Mayor's Office. He is survived by his brother, sister, and extended family. Nancy McBee Eagan SMS ’67 of Tullahoma, Tenn., died February 23, 2018.
Born in Sewanee, she graduated with a BS from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Mrs. Eagan was a member of Saint Barnabas Church in Tullahoma, the Arnold Wives Club, and the Retired Officers Wives. She served as the secretary of the board for the Victory 4 Families Foundation. She is survived by her husband, Col. Pat Eagan; two daughters; one brother, Tom McBee SMA ’62; and three grandchildren. Alba Kenneth McKinney, Jr. SMA ’70 died October 14, 2017. He received his BA in photography from the University of Louisiana Lafayette. He treasured the outdoors. Mr. McKinney is survived by his wife, Anita Collins McKinney; his mother; a daughter; two brothers; two sisters; and extended family. Douglas W. Morris SA ’76 of Burnsville, Minn. died on February 9, 2018. He attended Jones Business College and studied radio broadcasting. He served in the U.S. Navy for eight years as an Aviation Storekeeper Second Class Petty Officer on the U.S.S. Nimitz and the U.S.S. America. He was honorably discharged in 1985 and moved to Virginia Beach, Va. Mr. Morris was a computer programmer and migration specialist. In 1986, he moved to Frankfurt, Germany, for a job with Wang Labs. After years of travel, he settled in Minnesota. He is survived by his wife, Jan Mattson, his mother, two brothers, and extended family. Jonathan A. Dittman ’98 died October 17, 2017. Per his wishes, his body was donated to medical research in Coral Springs, Fla.
Notices of Death George W. Perry, SMA ’47 died November 20, 2013. Charles M. Gill, Sr. SMA ’45 died December 3, 2016. Clarence L. McDorman, Jr. SMA ’54 died June 20, 2015. Ellis E. Lane StA ’58 died October 9, 2017. Charles Howland SMA ’61 died July 5, 2015. James P. Rupe StA ’64 died April 22, 2016.
Terry L. Bonner SA ’75 died October 6, 2017.
Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 21
Class Notes
1950s Jim Seidule StA ’50 was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in November at Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Va. Jim coached football and track and field at EHS for 28 years. The James M. Seidule History Center in Townsend Hall is named in his honor. Jim taught history at St. Andrew’s School in the 1970s and served as Assistant Headmaster. After a teaching, coaching, and school administrative career that spanned over six decades, Jim has retired. He lives in The Villages in central Florida. John Lever StA ’52 married John Davis on Sept. 3, 2016 in Gray Center Chapel of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi. John, who is a family counselor and therapist, visited campus in December while in Sewanee for the annual Lessons and Carols at All Saints’. He is pictured (right) with John in front of Robinson Dining Hall. William Farris McGee SMA ’53 was recognized for 50 years of service to the legal profession and will be honored in June at the yearly convention of the Florida Bar in Orlando. He was one of the original founders and organizers of the Flagler County Bar Assoc., and served as president for two terms. He also served on the Florida Bar’s Standing Committee on Unlicensed Practice of Law and the SMA Board of Governors. He was an original member of the first Board of Trustees of St. AndrewsSewanee. Cynthia Bringle SMS ’57 and Edwina Bringle SMS ’57 have been honored by the Penland School of Crafts with The Cynthia Bringle and Edwina Bringle Outstanding Artist Educator Endowed Scholarship for Clay and Textiles. Cynthia will have a solo exhibit at the Toe River Arts Council Gallery in Spruce Pine, N.C., July 14-August 18, 2018. Edwina will teach a textile exploration workshop at Wildacres in Little Switzerland, N.C., July 15- 21, 2018. Both Edwina and Cynthia live in the Penland, N.C. area.
1960s Amelia Lang Hodges SMS ’63 wrote, “I welcomed a beautiful greatgranddaughter in 2017! Also, we just returned from a two-week motorcycle tour of Southern Spain and Portugal.” She and her husband, Sandy, live in Ootelwah, Tenn.
husband, Steve. She will be back on the Mountain serving as Reunion Leader for her class’s 45th in June.
John Woody, Jr. SMA ’63 has fully retired as president of Competition Tires West. He lives in Brooklyn, Mich. Artie Manning SMA ’66 sent this photo of an SMA mini-reunion held in February near Nashville. The celebration was organized by Allen Brooks SMA ’69, Ben Paty SMA ’70 and Donovan Smith SMA ’69, and attended by SAS Head of School Karl Sjolund and former Director of Development Tim Graham. Artie lives in Clarksville, Tenn., where he supervises and teaches new supervisors in municipalities throughout western and middle Tennessee. SMA alumni pictured are, in front (L-R): Barbara Reid Bedford ’69; crouched: Artie, Henry Bedford ’69, Donovan, and Jac Hayden ’67; standing first row: Andy Knapper ’70, Virginia Clauer, Garth Lovvorn ’65, Will Hayley ’65, Fred Bonsack ’68, and Eddie Latimer ’68; back row: Carl Campbell ’67, Bob Clauer ’69, Allen, Ronnie Alsbrook ’69, Craig Eldridge ’69, Ben, Bill Yarbrough ’68, and Barnie O'Keefe ’70.
1970s Bill Capo SMA ’71 retired after 36 years at WWL-TV in New Orleans. Bill covered numerous major stories, including the New Orleans Saints Super Bowl title, Hurricane Katrina, and his signature “12 for the Road” profiles during the holidays. He said about his time at the station and in New Orleans, “It has meant more to me than I can ever say to work for the incredible people of this amazing city, and your sense of humor and resilience, especially in tough times, have always been stunning. I know I will remember my employment here as the best time in my professional career.” Bill and his wife, Leslie, live in Metairie, La. Margaret Gibson Haughey SA ’73 retired from Fidelity Investments and moved to Wilmington, N.C., with her
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Dean Rucker StA ’73 was recently awarded the Tom Garner Distinguished Service Award for his volunteer service with the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Dean, who is Presiding Judge of the Seventh Administrative Judicial Region, was instrumental in creating the new TBLS specialty area of Child Welfare Law and served as a charter member for the Child Welfare Law Advisory Commission. Dean also sits by assignment as a Senior Judge of the 318th Family District Court. He is recipient of the Judge Sam Emison Award and the 2014 Samuel Pesserra Outstanding Jurist Award given by the Texas Bar Foundation. Additionally, he received the Harriett Herd Founders Award from Centers for Children and Families of Midland, the Chair’s Award of Excellence by the Texas Center of the Judiciary, the Jurist of the Year in 2005, and the Clayton E. Evans Judge of the Year, given to him by Texas CASA in 1997. Dean received his JD from St. Mary’s University School of Law in 1980. Dean lives in Midland, with his wife, Karen.
Chuck Watson StA ’73 stopped by campus in January with his girlfriend, Heather. They live in Bozeman, Mont., where Chuck is a criminal and civil defense attorney. Chuck’s son Herman A. Watson IV has joined his firm, Watson Law Office, PC, as full partner. Chuck was interviewed recently for an episode of NBC’s Dateline for his participation in the settling of a 30-year-old murder case.
Timothy Williams SA ’78 has served 25 years in the Army Reserves, with one combat tour in Iraq and two in Afghanistan. He received two Bronze Stars, the Defense Meritorious Medal, and the Legion of Merit. He also received Afghanistan’s highest award for noncitizens, the First Grade Distinguished Medal, for bringing peace to the Shindand Region of Afghanistan and improving the economy. As an employee of the Walmart Corporation, he has received Walmart’s highest award, the Sam M. Walton Hero Award. Tim’s employment includes vice president of operations at I. O. Metro Logistics, and operations manager and store manager with Walmart.
1980s Teresa Outlaw StA ’82 has been selected for the prestigious North Carolina Principal Fellows Program. She is currently finishing her master’s in school administration at UNC-Chapel Hill and will begin pursuing her doctorate in education leadership this fall. Teresa was on campus as an Alumni Council participant in the Career Series held for juniors and seniors. She lives in Cary, N.C.
Rob Utlaut ’85 is the facility management officer for the Construction and Facilities Management Office of the Georgia Department of Defense and was honored on March 29 for his promotion to full colonel with the US Army. He has served as a director of resource management; director of planning, programming, and real property; and deputy facility management officer. He and his wife, Margi, have a home in Chattanooga. Rob splits his time between there and Marietta. Rob was on campus in February to participate in the Alumni Council Career Series.
Eliza Evans ’86 moved to Brooklyn after living 20 years in Austin, Texas, with extended breaks in New Mexico. She reports that Brooklyn, “is a wasteland when it comes to tacos,” but she is exploring the sublimity of jerk chicken, the unexpected delights of talking to New Yorkers, and the phenomenological mysteries of training for a first marathon. Eliza received her BA from Oberlin College, a PhD from the University of Texas, and an MFA in 2017 from SUNY Purchase. She works on sculpture, installations, and prints, and has exhibited in New York City, Oregon, Plymouth, N.H., Austin, and Santa Fe. More information can be found at www.evans.net. Eliza is pictured at the New York alumni club event with Alexandria Hadden ’85 (right). Sean Bridgers ’86 is filming the second season of the EPIX series Get Shorty in Los Angeles. Sean, who plays Louis, costars with Ray Romano and Chris O'Dowd in the hit television show based on the novel by Elmore Leonard. Sean and his wife, Rachel, call Sylva, N.C. home. Their daughter, Kathryn Bridgers ’19, is a boarding student at SAS.
1990s Jana Russell Garner ’90 has been chosen by the Alabama State Bar to serve on the Alabama Court of the Judiciary. “It is flattering and an honor to think that your peers among the lawyers in the state feel that you have the qualifications, to be a productive member of that court.” Jana received her undergraduate degree from Judson College and is a graduate of Cumberland School of Law. She is a member of the bar's Disciplinary Commission, the Pro Bono Celebration Task Force, and the Membership Relations Task Force, chair of the Solo and Small Firm Section, and vice chair of the Dispute Resolution Section. She and her husband, Paul, who is a professional musician, live in Selma, with their two children, Samuel and Fairchild.
Dana Mayton Workman ’90 married Tom Ritter March 10, 2018, at St. Andrew’s Chapel. Dana was escorted down the aisle by her sons, Samuel, 15, and Lukas, 14. Close family and friends attended along with Director of Alumni Lizzie Duncan and current SAS parent Jenn Downs Uselton ’90. #TeamRitterWorkman will reside in Hillsboro, Tenn.
Alison Asmussen ’99 and her husband Peter Papura welcomed their first child, Alexander Sebastian, on Dec. 7, 2017. The couple lives in Waldorf, Md. Alison works with the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C. Alexander (right) is pictured with his grandmother, SAS Director of College Counseling Christine Asmussen and cousin, Ethan Thomas, son of Allison's brother, Mark Asmussen ’97, and his wife, Theresa.
reading interventionist at KIPP Esperanza Dual Language Academy.
Jude Ziliak ’05 sent word of the new addition to his family: “Please join Elizabeth and me in welcoming our son, Walter Anton Ziliak! He was born on March 20, the vernal equinox, at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City. He is an alert and curious baby, physically strong and fascinated by his surroundings. His arrival has brought us the greatest joy we have ever known and is all the greater because of you, our loving family and wonderful community of friends. We feel so glad for all the support, guidance, and love that we know our son will encounter.” Jude is the son of SAS faculty member Julie Jones.
Jaime Isobe ’01 is a business manager with the talent management company, The Nordlinger Group in New York. He and his wife, Vicky, live in Brooklyn where Jaime continues to film episodes of his cooking blog, Isobe Food, specializing in “Southern-comfort-laced-Asian-food from an Alabama born Japanese kid cooking in Brooklyn!”
Ben Miller ’06 lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. and is director of research at S.J. Shrubsole, one of the premier dealers of antique English and American silver, old Sheffield plate, antique jewelry, and antique glass. Previously, he was executive director of ArtSurge, senior editor for the Common Good, and an analyst for Knowledge Harvest, Inc. Ben also hosts the podcast, “Curious Objects and the Stories Behind Them,” published by The Magazine Antiques. It can be found at themagazineantiques.com/ podcast – take a listen!
Allston Vann Fishburne ’05 and Arlett Iliana Franco ’05 were married on December 29, 2017 at Christ Church Cathedral in Houston. Sarah Hart Fishburne Shuford ’08 served as maid of honor. The newlyweds live in San Antonio, where Arlett is a
Amanda Agricola ’07 married Mateo Marquez at Rosemary Beach, Fla., on February 3 in an intimate setting of close family and friends. Amanda’s father, Jack Agricola StA ’68, aunt Claire Agricola England SMS ’66, and brother and grooms-
2000s
man, John Agricola ’02, were in attendance along with alumni Evelyn Warder ’06 and Graham Rudder ’02, and former SAS faculty Allison and Pratt Paterson. The couple lives in Baltimore, Md., where Mateo works as a web designer at TBC, and Amanda teaches in the interactive arts department at Maryland Institute College of Art.
Jenna Lewis ’07 married Ryan Perkins on Nov. 25, 2017 in Ithaca, N.Y. They live in Capitol Heights, Md. Jenna received her MS in nursing from the University of Pennsylvania and is a board-certified women’s health and gender related nurse practitioner at George Washington University Hospital in Washington D.C. Ryan is a major market services flex enterprise consultant with Paychex. They spent their honeymoon in Jamaica.
Anna Dawson-Pitts ’08 moved from Princeton, where she has been a teacher for four years, to Brooklyn, despite having sworn she would never live in New York. She and a friend started a nanny placement agency, Brooklyn Manny and Nanny. Anna is the head of nanny recruitment and client relations. Both Anna and her business partner were nannies in the past and understand the importance of mutual respect, compassion, and communication. Anna attended the Brooklyn Alumni Club gathering in February and reported she has grown to love the city! She is pictured (right) with Debauny Haun ’08 during a NYC visit.
Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 23
Class Notes
2010s Andrew Westberry ’09 (center) graduated from Colorado State University with a BA in communications and minor in video production. During the 2016 election cycle, he worked as field director in Western Kentucky for the Republican Party. Andrew lives in Washington, D.C., where he was recently promoted to deputy press secretary/communications director for U.S. Senator Rand Paul.
Pierce Myers ’09 graduated with distinction on September 10, 2017, from the Southern California Institute of Architecture with an MA in fiction and entertainment. He received the Edge Prize for the best postgraduate student of the year. He lives in Los Angeles, Calif. Meg Armour-Jones ’09 has finished her rotations for medical school and graduates this April from St. George’s University School of Medicine. She wrote, “But the best news is that I ‘matched’ into pediatrics at Erlanger!!” Meg is thrilled to be moving home to Tennessee this summer. Daniel Shaver ’09 graduated from Lewis and Clark in 2013 and is in his second year of medical school at Cornell University. He has started clinical rotations, currently in surgery, and will start the approximate four years of PhD training this summer. He is considering focusing on neuroscience with an emphasis on psychiatric disorders for his lab selection and psychiatry for the clinical side. He wrote, “I'm really looking forward to the PhD and think that in general the research side is more what I’ll enjoy." Daniel encourages anyone interested in the medical school process to contact him. “I would have done things a lot differently looking back, and I'm happy to share my experiences with others to be helpful!”
Taylor Kavanuaugh ’10 has moved to Portland, Ore., where she is director of clinical studies with BIOTRONIK, one of the world's leading medical technology companies in the field of cardiac rhythm management and vascular intervention. She received her undergraduate degree from Georgia Tech and her MS from Vanderbilt University. Taylor is the daughter of Robin Albright Kavanaugh StA ’79.
with the global company, Kellen, which provides management, communications, digital strategy, and event logistics for trade associations, professional societies, and charitable organizations. Sophie graduated magna cum laude from Colorado College with a degree in sociology with concentrations in critical race feminism, food, and social justice and a minor in religious studies.
Scott Owsley ’10 (left) graduated from Ithaca College with a BA in cinema and photography. He lives in New York City where he works as a freelance television and video editor. Projects he has worked on include: The 71st Tony Awards, No Script With Marshawn Lynch, and several shows on the MTV networks. He is pictured with Daniel Shaver ’09 at the Manhattan Alumni Club event held in February.
Zach Blount ’12, Will Evans ’12, and Nick Evans ’10 relocated to Charlottesville, Va. to form a new band, Stray Fossa. Having performed as The Culprits while at SAS, they enjoyed a long-distance musical relationship during college and afterwards. Zach and Nick graduated from Davidson College. Will graduated from the University of Virgina. Zach says, “We are all back under one roof and are excited to be playing together again under a new name. We give a huge shout-out to the SAS community for the outpouring of love and support over the years, and we hope to see everyone at a show soon.” Learn more via Facebook at www.facebook.com/strayfossa, or their website, www.strayfossa.com. They will open Sewanee’s Friday Nights in the Park series on June 22!
Kira Tharp ’12 (left) is in Costa Rica working with the Cloud Forest School. She was promoted from intern/teaching assistant to head 3rd and 4th grade English teacher. She concludes her assignment in mid-June and is interested in living in Chattanooga and teaching or working in the communications field. She is pictured with classmates Sophie Register ’12 and Luis Solis ’12.
Katie Craighill ’13 lives in Atlanta and works as a veterinary technician with hopes to begin classes at Savannah College of Art and Design or Emory University. She has opened her own business, Savage Mountain Art & Design, and sells her artwork regularly at the Ponce City artist market in Atlanta. Katie will be in Chattanooga’s CityScope Magazine’s 5th annual “On the Map” article, recognizing outstanding recent college graduates in the region.
Sophie Register ’12 lives in Washington, D.C., where she has interned for congresswomen Alma Adams and Linda Sanchez. She now works as a government affairs coordinator
24 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Spring 2018
John Henning ’13 has accepted a job with the research team at IBM in Cambridge, Mass. Before moving north in July, John plans an extended trip through Europe. Katie Mobley ’14 completed her first marathon, the Chattanooga Marathon, in March with an awesome beginner's time of under four and a half hours! Katie graduates this May from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga with degrees in sociology and anthropology. She plans to remain in the Chattanooga area. Margaret Stapleton ’14, a senior at the University of the South, has been named a member of Phi Beta Kappa. Election is a prized honor for college students who have demonstrated exceptional academic excellence for at least five consecutive semesters. Margaret is the oldest daughter of Archie Stapleton StA ’75, and sister to Anna Stapleton ’16 and Thomas Stapleton ‘20. Vanessa Moss ’16 won the Planet Forward Storyfest 2018 in the category of Best Scalable Innovation for her article, "From Waste to Wetlands, A small town solution to water scarcity." Her prize includes a trip to the Alaskan coast in June. Vanessa is a sophomore at Sewanee studying ecology and biodiversity, French, and nonfiction writing. She works at the University Farm as a Bonner Leader, writes for the Sewanee Purple, and participates in Sewanee theatre productions. You can read her essay at PlanetForward. org. Planet Forward is a project of The George Washington University’s School of Media and Public Affairs. Evelyn Seavey ’17 is pictured with Dirk Kaytaire ’18 at the Mountain Top Wrestling Tournament in January. Evelyn is finishing her freshman year at the University of Wyoming. She is the daughter of faculty member Bill Seavey.
WHAT'S NEW WITH YOU?
EMAIL US: SASALUMNI@SASWEB.ORG
Alumni Entrepreneurs
Robert Jones
Mason Adams Mason Adams ’98 is the creator of Sin Rummy, a vicious twist on the classic card game, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's seven “Social Sins.” The game is elegantly contained inside a gorgeous deck of the highest-quality playing cards, manufactured by the United States Playing Card Company. Sin Rummy follows the rules of rummy, with a simple exception – before each round, players are dealt one “social sin,” which changes the rules for each player for the entirety of the round. Play then proceeds with whatever variant of rummy preferred. Mason says, “Seems easy, right? But our passive crimes have a way of making everything complicated.” In just one deck of cards there are 180 possible matchups, each with its own unique strategy. The project was crowdfunded in 21 days on Kickstarter. A devout card player since fifth grade when his mother signed him up to play bridge with her women’s group, Mason adds, “Sin Rummy has been an obsession for so long. I’m glad to finally get it out of my head and into the world. Keep it in mind for your gift giving needs!” Mason received his BA in French from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and attended the Université Sorbonne Nouvelle in Paris. He has served as artist and business manager and creative director for several companies, including his own, and is on the board of trustees for Aruna Partnership. He lives with his wife and family in Richmond, Va.
Brooke G. Jones
Zoe Stringer
Robert Jones ’03 and Brooke Gorentz Jones ’02 lead a passion-filled life in eastern Tennessee with a veterinary practice, animal sanctuary, and non-profit animal rehabilitation network. In addition to publishing a new book (see Alumni in Print), Robert has combined the cyberworld of gaming with environmental activism in his new mobile game, Smoggle Smash. “It has never been simpler to relax, yet still do something meaningful,” he said. All revenue from ads and app purchases for the tower-defense-and-tapper game are applied towards land conservation. Robert, who has an MA in military history from East Tennessee State University and is working on his PhD, is a certified wildlife rehabilitator and CEO of the Wildlife Resources and Education Network. WREN is an initiative to connect wildlife medicine with rehabilitation at zero cost to those who treat and report injured wildlife and promote stewardship, connectivity, and sustainability among rehabilitators. Brooke received her DVM from Auburn's College of Veterinary Medicine and works with the Paws of Hope Animal Wellness Center. The couple owns Tilted Tavern Animal Sanctuary for abused and rescued animals, located on their 200-year old farm. Zach Tidmore ’09 serves as vice president and Robert’s sister, Laura Jones Dudley ’99, is secretary of the nonprofit. You can learn more about their extraordinary efforts at wrencertified.org and tiltedtavernanimals.org, or on Facebook. Robert’s mother is alumna Miree Wood SMS/SMA ’69.
Zoe Stringer ’11 is the owner and founder of Pretty Space LLC, an online office products company inspired by her belief that the workspace should make you feel happy and inspired. Zoe graduated from Earlham College in 2015 and joined Americorps as a scholarship support specialist. Her mentoring program helped students acquire timemanagement, goal setting, and organizational skills. Pretty Space began when Zoe, an avid daily planner user, shared the practice with her students and was invited to present her “art of a daily planner” at an annual conference. “I’ve loved working in offices but often felt cramped and uninspired by traditional office supplies,” says Zoe. “I would dream of a colorful space, filled with unique tools that inspired me professionally.” Zoe lives in New Orleans, where she launched her web-based store this past fall. “Treat yourself to the productivity essentials you deserve. At Pretty Space, functionality is no longer tied to ’boring’ – it is chic, stylish, and fun.” Her full line can be found at prettyspaceshop.com and on Facebook. Zoe is the daughter of Mary Clark StA ’74.
Merritt Dyke SA ’80 Keeps SAS Running
A
generous gift from Merritt Dyke will resurface the school’s track this spring. Merritt, who formerly served on the school’s Board of Trustees, wanted to make a gift to the athletics program that would have the widest impact on the campus. “The varsity field and the track that surrounds it are a focal point for the school,” he said. “Whether athletes are training, visitors are attending home contests, or community members are just trying to stay fit, a well-maintained track is important to their efforts.” Dyke wanted to do something that would have a long-term impact. “I am pleased to be able to help the school tick one of its capital needs off of the list.” Director of Athletics Rob Zeitler is delighted with the gift. “One of our largest athletic programs is track and field,” he explained. “More than 40
students participate on the team each year, and, as Merritt notes, the track is used by our other athletic programs, students seeking to stay fit, and community members. Keeping the track in good condition is an important priority for the school and important to the health and safety of our community.” Head of School Karl Sjolund expressed his gratitude for the gift and for Merritt’s on-going generosity and involvement with the school. “Merritt approached us asking: ‘How can I be helpful?’ It is the best question a head of school can receive. Our school prayer speaks of the ‘love and labor of many;’ alumni and friends like Merritt are the answers to that prayer.” Merritt is chairman of Dyke Industries, a family-owned building supplies company in Atlanta, Ga.
Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 25
Chair
Introducing of the of Bruce Baird SMA ’69
When Dr. Bruce Baird succeeds Eunice Colmore as the chair of the Board of Trustees in April, he becomes the most connected chair in the history of the
Board Trustees
school, having been both an alumnus and past parent. And, as Sewanee’s only dentist for 34 years before his semiretirement in 2011, Bruce cared
What does SAS mean to you? My children had such wonderful experiences at SAS and were so well prepared for life after high school. Matt (’97) went on to DePauw University, where he was co-captain of the tennis team and named an Academic AllAmerican player. He attended Dartmouth Medical School and completed his residency in emergency medicine at the University of Virginia and a sports medicine fellowship at the University of Arizona. Now he practices in Greenville, S.C., where he and his wife and two children live. My daughter Lauren (’00) also attended DePauw. She majored in English and psychology and worked in publishing in Chicago before moving to Utah to work in wilderness therapy. She has since earned a doctorate from Pacific University and completed a two-year residency in pediatric neuropsychology at Dartmouth. Lauren and her husband live in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., where she treats patients with autism and traumatic brain injuries. Erin, Lauren’s sister, twin, and fellow member of the class of 2000, majored in classics at the University of the South. Thanks to an SAS connection, she got her first job in Washington, D.C., working in real estate for Lindsey Reishman ’94. She lives in Dallas with her husband and two children and has this incredibly cool job as a virtual secretary for the wine industry. 26 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Spring 2018
for generations of SAS students, faculty, and staff. We recently sat down with Bruce to talk to him about his hopes and dreams for SAS.
My children enjoyed going to school each day. They enjoyed the hands-on approach to education at SAS. They made friendships that have endured time and distance. Although they each pursued different paths, they felt well prepared for college, and especially well prepared to express themselves. I know I am biased, but my exposure to other schools in the area suggests to me that they have a much higher emphasis on social status. They also have a vision of what a child should look like on graduation day, and they mold the child to that image. SAS helps each child to think deeply about who they want to be and how they will get there. Then the school fits the program to meet the needs of the child. What do you see as your big challenges in leading the Board of Trustees? My first big challenge is following in the footsteps of Eunice Colmore. Eunice’s investment in the health of the school has been tremendous. I am grateful for her commitment of time, wisdom, and resources. She will be a hard act to follow. My second big challenge is working with the board and Head of School Karl Sjolund to move the school forward in our dayto-day operations while also preparing to
Historic List of SAS Board Chairs 1981-1982 1982-1985 1985-1987 1987-1990 1990-1993 1993-1995 1995-1997 1997-1999 1999-2001 2001-2003 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2007 2007-2010 2010-2012 2012-2013 2013-2016 2016-2018 2018-
Alumni in Print
Mr. DeArnold R. Barnette, Parent The Rev. James L. Johnson, Friend Mr. Tom G. Watson, Past Parent Mr. Hartwell D. Hooper StA ’48 Mrs. Phebe C. Hethcock, Past Parent Mr. Webb W. Turner SMA ’55 Mr. G. Steven Wilkerson SMA ’61 Mr. Clyde E. Medford, Jr. StA ’43 Mr. F. Murray Robinson StA ’52 Mr. J. Douglas Campbell, Jr. SMA ’59 Ms. Maria B. Campbell, Friend Mr. Jack Northrop StA ’59 Mr. Richard F. Manship SMA ’64 Mr. F. Murray Robinson StA ’52 Mr. Merritt P. Dyke SA ’80 Mr. William M. Courtney, Jr. SA ’73 Mr. Richard W. Westling, Past Parent Mrs. Eunice R. Colmore, Friend Dr. Bruce Baird SMA ’69
see the Campus Master Plan brought to fruition. We have a lot of work ahead of us. What are the biggest opportunities at SAS? I have been on the board for four years and served years ago as a representative from the Parents’ Council. Eunice has handed me the strongest board in the history of the school in terms of the diversity of skills and knowledge. The same is true of the current administration. You can feel the optimism on campus, and I believe we will see great progress in terms of the fiscal health of the school and the state of the physical plant. SAS was founded to serve anyone who wants a good education, regardless of their financial status. I know so many people in this area who are proud to have gone to this school, because it was a quality of education that was not available to their parents. My family also appreciated the Episcopal Church’s commitment to open inquiry as expressed at SAS and the comfort in letting each child come to their own understanding of faith in their own time. SAS welcomes people from diverse backgrounds and gives them the skills and confidence to use their unique gifts and perspectives to serve the world. My goal is to help the school thrive and grow so that each year we are welcoming more students to experience all that SAS has to offer.
T
his fall, author and illustrator Abigail Wetmore ’05 published her first children’s book featuring her loveable characters Thaddeus West and Sneed. The Chicken Coop tells the story of a little thief who does not seem to be able to steal anything properly, except the admiration of others. Writing has always been one of Abigail’s hobbies, and she wants to make her spare-time projects into a full-time reality. “The primary purpose of my writing is to create the stories I want available to read for myself,” wrote Abigail. “The purpose of publishing them is to make the stories available for anyone else who might enjoy them, as well. The first full novel attempt is underway, but children's books will still be my primary genre of choice.” Two more adventures with Thaddeus West and Sneed are in the works.
I
n the debut novel by Robert “Robie” T. Jones ’03, Gargaphia: Where History Means Murder, Thomas Appling is two-weeks away from completing his PhD when his primary supervisor is assassinated and Appling is falsely imprisoned for the crime. Thousands of miles from home, Appling discovers that his research holds the keys to unlock a deadly secret, but someone wants to keep the secret hidden. On the other side of the world, a congressman's daughter has gone missing. A reluctant quest for the truth is forced upon Appling as the ancient world becomes a puzzle box of nightmares. The book is published through Southern Yellow Pine Publishing.
Abigail lives in Signal Mountain, Tenn. Artistic talent runs in her family; her father, Gordon Wetmore, painted the oil portrait of former Head of School The Rev. William S. Wade that hangs in Wade Commons in Wade Hall for the Sciences on the SAS campus.
In addition to being an author, Robie is a scholar of ancient military history, wildlife philanthropist, green business creator, and hobby farmer living in Jonesborough, Tenn. As a writer, he cultivates a diverse readership by writing in multiple genres: short stories for children, thrillers and fantasy for adults, and academic papers on his research in the ancient world. He is the husband of Brooke Gorentz Jones ’02 and brother of Lara Jones ’99.
The Chicken Coop is available in Chattanooga-area bookstores and on Amazon.com. (When you choose St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School as your Amazon Smile recipient, Amazon will make a donation to SAS for every purchase you make.) You may also enjoy Abigail’s blog for aspiring writers: abigailwetmore.com.
TOP LEFT: Landon Ratchford, son of Grace Brooks Ratchford ’04, enjoys Abigail’s book.
Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 27
Alumni Activities
A Busy Season It has been a busy season for the Alumni Office with eight events taking place since the late fall. Alumni & Friends gatherings were held in New Orleans, Mobile, Nashville, and Atlanta in November and December. We also had our third SAS Theater Soiree, this time in Washington, D.C. Alumni Clubs convened in Memphis, Dallas, and New York in November and February. Upcoming events include an Alumni Club gathering in Knoxville on April 14, hosted by Lawson Bordley ’91 with his wife, Mary, and David and Reneé Charlton Sprouse ’94; the first-ever Boston Area Alumni Club on April 27; the induction of the Class of 2018 into the SAS Alumni Association on May 4; a Chattanooga Area Alumni & Friends Gathering in early May hosted by Margi and Rob Utlaut ’85; and the annual Volunteer Work Weekend, July 22-23. Please join us if you can! If you are interested in hosting an event in your area, please contact the Alumni Office at sasalumni@sasweb.org.
Nashville Bud Walters SMA ’59 and his wife, Rosemary hosted a large crowd of Nashville area alumni and friends in November. FRONT ROW (L-R): trustee and past parent Alex von Hoffmann, Susan Sjolund, Holly Anderson Kruse ’82, Laura Cunningham ’96, Caroline Russell Pemberton ’08, Debora Shiftlett, Director of Development Jay Howard; SECOND ROW: Director of Alumni Lizzie Duncan, Mary Darden StA ’81, Taylor Kavanaugh ’10, Laura Gifford ’89, Doni Porteous, Rodney Quarles ’92, Suzanne Angele ’91, Carleen Vollmer, and Bud; THIRD ROW: Head of School Karl Sjolund, President of the SAS Board of Trustees Eunice Colmore, former trustee and past parent Rich Westling, Dana DeMoss, Jarod Collins, trustee Sarah Lowe ’82, Allen Townsend StA ’78, Assistant Director of Development Sandy Bryant, former trustee Ed Miller, Myles “Satch” Vollmer StA ’71; BACK ROW: David Baulch SA ’80, current parents John Wengraf, Adele Simons, and Susan Ferguson. Photo credit: Rosemary Walters
Atlanta Atlanta area alumni and friends gathered at Fado’s Irish Pub Midtown in November. FRONT ROW (L-R): John Kenna StA ’79, Katie Craighill ’13, and Lucy Bowles Newton SMS ’63, and Jane Kenna; MIDDLE ROW: Andy Simmonds StA ’61, Hojabr Niakan StA ’80, Heidi Hanger Simmonds SMS ’61; BACK ROW: alumni parent Chip Craighill, Michael Asmussen ’01, Head of School Karl Sjolund, David Allen StA ’78, Megan Melloy StA ’78, and Stephen Lawrence StA ’80.
New Orleans
DC Theater Soiree We gathered for the Washington, DC, premiere of Curve of Departure by Rachel Bonds ’01 in December. (L-R): Kate Sheeler StA ’81, David Dunn SMA ’67, Sophie Register ’14, Karl Sjolund, Jenna Lewis ’07, Scott Gelinas ’96, Robin Morris, and former faculty Stephen Pearcy.
Mobile Alumni & Friends
The New Orleans gathering was at the iconic Tujaques in the French Quarter. FRONT ROW (L-R): Tim Jones, Terry Snyder ’85, Hadley Parsons ’17, Zoe Stringer ’11, Director of Alumni Lizzie Duncan StA ’76, alumni parent Katherine Parsons, Jay Howard, and Louis Jung SMA ’64; BACK ROW: Joshua Reaves, Karl Sjolund, alumni parent Bill Parsons, and Albert Carpenter SMA ’60.
The Mobile gathering was hosted by Marjorie Hatcher Sanders ’91 and her husband, Mike. (L-R) Karl Sjolund, Anne Harris Podgers StA ’75, Jay Howard, Melanie Harris Davis StA ’79, Tinashe Zimbwa ’13, Mike and Marjorie, former faculty Allison and Pratt Paterson, Alicia Wendling Sims SA ’81, and Frank Wendling SA ’82.
WHAT'S NEW WITH YOU? EMAIL US: SASALUMNI@SASWEB.ORG 28 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Spring 2018
THE
Alumni Council PRESIDENT Martha Warren StA ’82
Alumni Council Activities This year’s Alumni Council programming has been vibrant with the continuation of the SAS Career Series and Senior Etiquette Dinner, solidification of alumni clubs, and planning for the 9th Annual Volunteer Work Weekend in July.
VICE PRESIDENT Laura Cunningham ’96 Teresa Outlaw StA ’84 Ben Beavers SA ’81 Anneke Skidmore ’05 Lizzie Duncan StA ’76 Terry Snyder ’85 Claire Agricola England SMS ’66 Aggie Wright Stephenson ’01 Xan Glover ’92 Tom Taylor SMA ’64 Caroline Graham ’17 David Tharp ’84 Ansley Kellermann ’00 Liz Gilliam Womack ’02 Leslie Muir ’91
Introducing the Compass Society An exciting new Council initiative is the SAS Compass Society for donors who make a 12-month recurring gift of $30 or more to the SAS Fund. The Compass Society provides alumni with a way to pay tribute to the sense of place garnered while on the Mountain and meaningfully support the mission of the school.
Career Series Participants at this year’s Career Series for seniors (L-R): Bill Priestley ’93, Xan Glover ’92, Laura Cunningham ’96, Rob Utlaut ’85, Teresa Outlaw StA ’82, Bill Yarbrough SMA ’68, Leslie Green Bryan ’94, Conley Averett ’09, Isaac Arnold ’04, Flora Ziliak ’09, and Ryan Barry ’04.
Etiquette Dinner Serving and hosting the senior class at their annual etiquette dinner (L-R): Lizzie Duncan StA ’76, Xan, Bill, Laura, Isaac, Teresa, Ben Beavers SA ’81, and Head of School Karl Sjolund.
Isaac Arnold ’04 is one of the newest members of the Compass Society. “It is such a wonderful idea. Given how unpredictable and inconsistent my pay periods can be, saving up for a lump sum donation can be tricky. I KNOW I can spare $30 a month.” To become a member of the SAS Compass Society: 1. Go to www.sasweb.org/give. 2. Sign up to make a 12-month recurring gift of $30 or more. (30x12=360, like the 360° of the compass!)
Memphis Alumni Club Kelley Johnson Hayes StA ’78 and her husband, Ken, hosted Memphis alumni in November. FRONT ROW (L-R): Lizzie Duncan, Anna Condon ’10, and Jefferds Dixon; BACK ROW: Rodney Nash StA ’76, Bill Condon SA ’75, John Prichard SMA ’56, Kelley, Will Hayley SMA ’65, Mike Kossmann StA ’75, and Drake Ledbetter StA ’79.
New York Alumni Club Tim Graham, former Director of Development, returned to campus this fall to invite students to participate in the Rotary Four-Way Speech Contest. He is seen here with Director of College Counseling Christine Asmussen who will join Tim in the ranks of the retired at the end of this, her 28th, school year. Tim served as chief fund raiser for SAS for 22 years, helping to raise more than $37 million for the school during his tenure. He is now enjoying travel, volunteering, and being grandfather to the children of Laura Beth “LB” Graham Matthews ’01 and David Graham ’06. Christine, who is also looking forward to having more time for grandparenting, is the mother of Mark Asmussen ’97, Allison Asmussen Papura ’99, Michael Asmussen ’01, and Ian Asmussen ’03.
New York alumni gathered in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Attending the Manhattan event in February were (L-R): Daniel Shaver ’09, Scott Owsley ’10, Alexandra Hadden ’85, Eliza Evans ’86, Lizzie Duncan, and Jaime Isobe ’01.
Spring 2018 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · 29
The St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Service Award
Distinguished Alumni Award
Eunice Colmore
E
unice Colmore became a trustee in 2008 as the Rev. William S. Wade concluded his 27-year tenure as head of school, a time of great transition. Neither an alumna nor parent, she was already familiar on campus, helping with events when her husband, Rupert, was a trustee The original land for the St. Andrew’s campus was the Colmore family farm, and it was appropriate that Eunice’s first board assignment was to the Buildings and Grounds committee where she helped to allocate resources to maintain and improve the 550-acre campus. Projects included the construction and dedication of McCrory Hall for the Performing Arts and the William S. Wade Science Building, the first LEED-certified building in the region. She served as chair of the committee from 2012 to 2014. She also chaired the Friends Committee of the St. Andrew’s Chapel Centennial Campaign, making possible the renovation and endowment of the spiritual heart of the school. In 2015, Eunice was named vice president of the Board of Trustees and appointed chair of the search committee for a new head of school. The search ended with the successful recruitment of Karl J. Sjolund. Eunice was voted president of the Board of Trustees in 2016 and concludes her term this spring. Under her leadership, SAS smoothly transitioned to a new head of school, improved the Board by-laws, strengthened new trustee orientation, and completed a 25-year Campus Master Plan. Her fundraising on behalf of the school has been indefatigable. In nominating her for the Service Award, Head of School Karl Sjolund said, “Eunice’s leadership has been essential to the school’s survival. Her intelligence is matched with an intuition that has been valuable in a wide variety of circumstances, from fundraising efforts to governance issues. Her energy, substance, and integrity raise the bar for those around us and inspire us all to serve SAS with similar dedication.”
Elliott Puckette ’85
E
lliott Puckette is a contemporary artist best known for her minimalist compositions. She creates works filled with billowing calligraphic lines that she carves with razor blades and covers with gesso and ink, creating canvasses filled with movement. The New Yorker described her work: “(Puckette’s) undulating, sassily flouncing lines mimic milk swirling in coffee, smoke rising, and clouds moving – the artist cites Constable’s skies as an influence. Their curvy, razor-incised calligraphy can also look, up close, like Arabic or a colorful John Cage score, though it is Puckette’s great pleasure to mimic the conventions of script without actually offering anything to read.” Her work occasionally still takes shots for being too decorative, too pretty. Elliott replies, “That’s always been something I’ve had to speak up for. You have to be brave to try to make something beautiful. A lot of people are afraid of it. Ugly seems more edgy. There always has to be a nasty barb at the end, some sort of irony. I’m just not like that.” Elliott, who is represented by the Paul Kasmin Gallery, has been featured and/or reviewed in Interview Magazine, Architectural Digest, Introspective Magazine, Art in America, Artforum, Art + Auction, The Tennessee Historical Quarterly, Art & Text, The New Yorker, The New York Times, Elle Décor, and Vogue. She and her husband, artist Hugo Guinness, were featured recently in The Tiffany & Co.’s The Silver Cup Project. Elliott received her BFA from Cooper Union in New York and has been showing her work, in both solo and group exhibitions, since 1992. In addition to nearly 30 shows in galleries from Los Angeles to London, she is also represented in public collections in the Fogg Art Museum, the Huntsville Museum of Art, New York Public Library, and the Whitney Museum of American Art. Her large-scale painting, The Locust and the Bird, which evokes the curvature of the body, musical notes and 19th century adornment, hangs across the street from the World Trade Center site in the lobby of Brookfield Place.
The St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Service and Distinguished Alumni Awards will be presented on Saturday, June 2, 2018 during Alumni Weekend.
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The Celebration Begins
A LUM N I W EEK EN D June 1-3, 2018
FRIDAY • JUNE 1 10:00 Registration Opens 12:00 SAS Golf Classic The Course At Sewanee 3:00 Rejoice! Band Rehearsal 4:30 St. Mary’s Soiree 6:00 Live Jazz & Dinner Youth Program Starts 9:00 Bonfire SA Birthday Bash SATURDAY • JUNE 2 7-9:00 Breakfast 8:30 Registration Reopens 9:00 St. Mary's Eucharist 10:00 Yoga Master Class Rejoice! Choir Rehearsal 11-2:00 Reunion Photos 11:30 Champagne Awards Brunch
1:30 SMA Alumni Memorial Service 2:00 SA Purpling of the Gates 2-5:00 Res Swimming and Canoeing 2:45 SMA Last Cadet Statue Dedication 3:00 Rejoice! Choir Rehearsal 3:30 SMA Reception 4:00 SA Vocal Concert and Reception 5:30 Youth Program Starts Reunion Parties 6:00 Reunion Photos 7:00 All-Alumni Dinner and Entertainment 8:00 Karaoke Competition and Dance 9:00 Bonfire SUNDAY – JUNE 3 9:00 SMA Alumni March 10:30 Rejoice! Holy Eucharist with StA ’68 Banner Retirement 11:30 Farewell Brunch
REGISTER AT
www.sasweb.org/alumni-weekend
St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School
290 Quintard Road Sewanee, Tennessee 37375-3000 www.sasweb.org Address Service Requested
NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID CHATTANOOGA, TN PERMIT 78
Getting in Far and Near
In January, Ryan Cassell, Director of Admission at the University of the South, attended Chapel to deliver "big envelopes" of Early Action admission to 14 of the 48 members of the SAS senior class. Some of those students are pictured here with Sewanee alumni on our faculty and staff. That morning, SAS Director of College Counseling also announced admission and merit scholarship awards for seniors admitted to Rochester Institute of Technology, Wooster College, Purdue University, Ohio State University, University of Southern California, Aberystwyth University (Wales), High 32 · St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Magazine · Spring 2018 University, Maryville College, and Centre College. Point University, DePauw University, Roanoke College, Wingate