

Table of Contents
4 8 10
Lighting Round with Ken Cheeseman
Books, Blessings & Beyond
Athletics: All-State & All-Conference Honors
Athletics: College-Bound Athletes
12 14 16 24 28 30
Class of 2025: College Highlights
Alpha Omegas: A St. David’s Journey







ON THE COVER
ONE LAST PHOTO: Still in their graduation regalia, the class of 2025 dons their college baseball hats, marking their transition from St. David’s to campuses nationwide. See page 24 for their college selections. 14 28 16 30 8 10 12 4 24


Editor
MARY DICKERSON
Photographers
JEN HAYGOOD
JEN KUNIN
ACTUALLY
JESSIE CARROLL
Designer
JESSIE CARROLL
Contributors
MATT HILLEGASS
LEEANNE WHITWORTH
KALI COOPER
TIFFANY CLIFTON
WILL COLEY
SARAH JANE KEEGAN
DANNA MARKOFF
JAMIE MARTIN
CARRYL DAVIS
KATY SMYTH
St. David’s Magazine is published twice a year by the Marketing and Communications Office for alumni, parents, staff and friends of St. David’s School. Please send questions, comments or story ideas to mdickerson@sdsw.org.
Address Updates
ALUMNI: Send updates to cdavis@sdsw.org
CURRENT FAMILIES: Visit the parent portal to update your address.
Stay Connected
Follow us on social media to stay up to date on all the happenings around campus.
@StDavidsSchool

Thank you to our 2024-25 CORPORATE PARTNERS
DIAMOND
Baker Roofing
Kane Realty
SAPPHIRE
A.B. Goodrich Contracting LLC
All Phase Power and Controls
Bailey’s Fine Jewelry
Monkee’s of Raleigh
Precision Walls
Tri South Mechanical
PLATINUM
SAGE Dining Services, Inc.
Weathermaster Heating and Air Conditioning
GOLD
AIM Advisors
AIXI Inc.
Custom Estate Homes
Goodwin Executive Search
Homes By Parrish
MA Allen Interiors
Midtown Plumbing LLC
NK Patent Law
Oak Harbor Wealth Partners
Pair Quality Foods
Village Tavern
SILVER
Ashley Lloyd DDS PLLC
BHDP Architecture
Edward Jones - Dany Bostic
Grimes Insurance Group, LLC
Homes by Dickerson
Littlewood Law Partners
OPEX Technologies, Inc.
Rufty Homes
Saira Bruno Realty
Signature Swingsets and Sheds
Smith Debnam
Wells Family Dental Group
Weston Banks Wealth Partners
White Oak Family Dentistry
BRONZE
Charles Michael Financial
Cheek-Hill Orthodontics
Custom Brick
Dalhouse
Integrative Equine Bodywork
Morisey Commercial
Raleigh Hand to Shoulder
SEL Real Estate
Dear St. David’s Community,
This spring’s commencement—the very word meaning “beginning”—was a beautiful reminder of why St. David’s exists. One by one, the Class of 2025 crossed the stage, accepted their diplomas, and stepped into a new season of life. In a moment that captured the full odyssey of a St. David’s graduate, Representative Brad Knott—our first Alpha Omega alumnus to serve as commencement speaker—returned to give the keynote address. A student who once sat crisscross applesauce in kindergarten now stood before our graduates, offering wisdom, gratitude, and Christ-centered purpose.
That’s the full journey we strive for, hope for, and pray for. That is a portrait of a St. David’s graduate. Among this remarkable class were sixteen Alpha Omegas—students whose St. David’s journey spanned from kindergarten to twelfth grade—growing from lunchboxes to laptops, from the Lower School Fun Run to tracing the Apostle Paul’s steps through Greece. Their stories, like those of their classmates, are a living testimony to the formation that defines a St. David’s education: lives rooted deeply in faith, virtue, and knowledge. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!
As graduates turned their tassels, St. David’s stepped into a new chapter as well. We’re deeply grateful for Matt Hillegass, whose steady leadership and faithful care have left an indelible mark on our school. As we thank Matt and the Hillegass family for their service, we also warmly welcome Ken Cheeseman as our new Head of School. With a deep love for our mission and the wisdom that comes from experience, Ken is ready to build on the strong foundation in place and lead us into an even stronger future.
Inside this summer edition, you’ll find stories of our mission in motion on our campus and beyond. As you turn these pages, may you be reminded, just as we were at the 2025 Commencement, that St. David’s is more than a school. It is a launching place for lives rooted in Christian faith, formed by virtue, and inspired to pursue knowledge—all aimed at shaping a better world for the next generation to the glory of God.
With joy and gratitude,

Anne Fletcher Chair, Board of Trustees

A Lightning Round with Ken Cheeseman
Matt Hillegass, former Head of School
Asmy time at St. David’s draws to a close, I’ve found myself walking campus with a sense of grateful contentment, reflecting on the blessings of the past and looking forward with hope to all that lies ahead. This community has been a joy to serve, and I leave with trust in the Lord and deep confidence in the people He has assembled to carry on the wonderfully peculiar mission of this school. I know I am leaving St. David’s in good hands.
As your new Head of School, Ken Cheeseman is no stranger to the challenges and opportunities of leadership. With more than two decades of headship experience, Ken brings skill and character shaped by life, deep faith, and diligent study. He is principled, steady, and perhaps most importantly, curious in the way that good leaders and lifelong learners always are.
Throughout my tenure, I’ve loved interviewing members of the St. David’s community, including students, staff, and parents alike, for short profiles in my monthly HEADlines newsletter. Almost without exception, I’d end these conversations with a lightning round of fun, informal questions, always hoping to catch a glimpse of the person behind the role. So, as I officially pass the baton, it seems only fitting to turn the mic toward Ken and let you get to know him in that same spirit: warm, thoughtful, a little unexpected, and fully human.
Let’s get started!


Roger Bannister breaking the 4-minute mile. Iffley Road Track, 1954.
Photo: M. Handson
Matt: Alright, Ken. Let’s start with a high-stakes question: Twizzlers or Red Vines?
Ken: Twizzlers…specifically the rope kind. But…let’s not ignore the whole red dye thing. There’s a cost.
Matt: A thoughtful confectionary choice and a leader who counts the costs. I respect it. How about this: Beach or mountains?
Ken: Mountains, hands down. Preferably with a lake. I like a bit of cool elevation and quiet stillness from time to time.
Matt: …the stillness of a mountain lake. That already sounds like a metaphor for school leadership. Book club or movie night?
Ken: Book club; especially one that makes me feel a little like an Inkling.
Matt: Alright then, I see Tolkien has entered the conversation…how about a fictional place you’d most like to visit?
Ken: The Shire - no question. Long meals at long tables with long conversations by the fire...yes, please.
Matt: One imagines that a well-tended garden is also part of the vision, no? I wonder what the world would be like if we all aspired to live more like hobbits. Speaking of aspirations, when you were a kid, who did you want to be like?
Ken: Sir Roger Bannister. The first to break the four-minute mile. Look up his story some time; it’s worth it.
Matt: Discipline, vision, and the capacity to defy limits; Not a bad model. Okay, pivoting to daily life: What are some small things that make your day better?
Ken: A really good cup of coffee, and starting the day in the Word of God. I’ve been spending time in 1 and 2 Peter lately…Also laughter. Laughter always helps.
Matt: Simple rhythms, deeply rooted, and a sense of humor…truly the stuff of sustainable leadership. Now for something more theoretical: what TV channel doesn’t exist but should?
Ken: A channel devoted entirely to film adaptations of everything the Inklings wrote.
Matt: Great – I’d subscribe to that, and maybe even host a viewing party. Also, I think I may be sensing a theme, here. Tell us this - Do you have a favorite YouTuber?
Ken…………..
Matt: Ken? Is this thing on?...Perhaps the algorithm has not yet revealed the right one for you. Let’s move on to a series of “Would You Rather…” questions. Are you ready?
Ken: Ready!
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

Matt: Deep sea diver or astronaut?
Ken: Emphatically neither. Too enclosed. Too vast. I’ll have to pass.
Matt: A man who knows his limits. Admirable. If you had just one super power - Fly or stop time?
Ken: Stop time; just to be more present; to sit longer with people, with ideas; to listen better
Matt: Yes, I can relate. If you could only whisper or only SHOUT! – which would you choose?
Ken: Whisper. Always. It might be nice if everyone else had to whisper too.
Matt: Indeed. Ok, we’re almost to the finish line. Apart from your wife, of course…if you had to choose –would you choose a big group of friends or just one really close friend?
Ken: If I have to choose—big group. I love the range of perspectives, the way good friends sharpen one another.
Matt: Yes, Proverbs 27:17. That resonates. Ok, last one for now, and this one’s my favorite: Would you rather go back to age 5 with everything you know now, or know now everything your future self will learn?
Ken: I think I’d rather go back to age 5…not to relive it, but to do some things differently; To notice what I missed; To help people I didn’t realize needed it.
Matt: That says a lot, Ken. And I think it captures your posture as a leaderattentive, humble, and eager to serve. Thank you for your time and candor, my friend!
So, there you have it, folks; a brief sketch of the man stepping in to lead St. David’s School forward – a man reclining around the fire with friends, leaning in to listen and dreaming together about the future, with a well-worn copy of a cherry-flavored Twizzlers pull ‘n’ peel in his hand.
Ken, I’m deeply grateful for your willingness to carry both the work and the heart of this community into its next chapter. Though I may no longer walk these halls each day, I’ll be cheering you, and St. David’s, on every step of the way.
With gratitude and hope, Matt Hillegass



Books, Blessings, &
Kali Cooper, Lower School Advisory Council Chair


...service, when rooted in love and guided by Christ, can ripple far beyond the classroom.


This school year, our Lower School students demonstrated that service, when rooted in love and guided by Christ, can ripple far beyond the classroom. Through partnerships with Refugee Hope Partners and WakeMed Children’s Hospital, our students embraced opportunities to meet the needs of others in age-appropriate, meaningful ways.
In classrooms, teachers shared Maddi’s Fridge by Lois Brandt, a story that sensitively introduces children to food insecurity and inspires compassionate action. This simple but powerful picture book opened doors for our students to reflect on how they can meet real needs right here in Raleigh. The conversations that followed were rich, filled with curiosity, empathy, and a growing understanding of what it means to seek Christ by loving our neighbors as ourselves.
Throughout the year, the Lower School collected essential items for Refugee Hope Partners—school supplies, toiletries, and winter gear—responding to specific requests from families in need. These collections often took just a moment to organize but offered students a real and


tangible way to collaborate generously and lead with humility. It was not about checking a box or earning praise. It was about noticing a need and stepping in to help—joyfully and wholeheartedly.
This spring, our latest initiative through WakeMed combined literacy and compassion in a beautiful expression of student leadership. Lower Schoolers were invited to reflect on their favorite books from the school year. Our Friends of St. David’s School parent group then purchased those books for pediatric patients at WakeMed, complete with personalized dedication plaques signed by the students. Alongside each book, students wrote heartfelt letters of encouragement to be delivered to hospitalized children. The letters were filled with warmth, joy, and resiliencereminders that even young children can persevere through challenges and help others do the same.
Though these projects occupied only a small portion of our year, the seeds planted will grow in lasting ways. Our students learned that pursuing excellence is not confined to academics; it means doing all things, even small acts of kindness,
unto the glory of God. They embraced learning that is not only intellectual but deeply spiritual - growing in understanding of what it means to walk in someone else’s shoes and respond with care.
At St. David’s, we believe that our graduates will leave this place ready to know, love, and follow Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. But that journey starts early, and it begins in moments like these - in a classroom book discussion, in a pair of mittens packed with love, or in a handwritten note that travels from one small heart to another. As we look to the summer, we celebrate not only what our students have done this year but who they are becoming: kindhearted learners, humble leaders, and faithful followers of Christ - ready to bring meaningful good to every

Though these projects occupied only a small portion of our year, the seeds planted will grow in lasting ways.
2024-25 Athletic Honors
Thirty-seven Warriors varsity athletes received 39 All-Conference or All-State accolades in 14 varsity sports this year. Additionally, the Varsity Girls’ basketball team won the Capital City Conference championship.

Jack Sena ’26 All-Conference All-State


Ben Young ’26 All-Conference All-State

Anna Hauser ’28 All-Conference


Will Sink ’25 All-Conference All-State


Alex Luebke ’25 All-Conference


Eliza Everett ’25, All-Conference Conference Co-Player of the Year


Jordyn Driggers ’26 All-Conference



Hutch Marshall ’25 All-Conference


Taylor Cannon ’29 All-Conference


Walker Tattersall ’25 All-Conference Honorable mention


Cooper Tolin ’28 All-Conference


Anna Hauser ’28 All-Conference


Grant Simpson ’27 All-Conference

Marguerite Alexander ’29 All-Conference


John Thagard ’25, All-Conference Honorable mention


Grant Murray ’29 All-Conference

Mary Elizabeth Martin ’26 All-Conference


Pierson Rollman ’25, All-Conference Honorable mention

Henry Carreker ’29 All-Conference


Jordan Holmes ’27 All-Conference



Grimsley McNairy ’26
All-Conference


Patrick Clegg ’27
All-Conference All-State

Isa Cordon ’28
All-Conference

Mackenzie Cline ’25, All-State



Carolyn Ames ’25
All-Conference


Nicholas Fritzsche ’26
All-Conference All-State



Craig Sanguily ’25
All-Conference


Grey McMahon ’25
All-Conference


Will McClatchey ’27
All-Conference All-State


George Coleman ’28
All-Conference


Leighton Little ’27
All-Conference


Cooper Berkoff ’25
All-Conference All-State


Smith Goracke ’27
All-Conference


Grant Fisher ’28,
All-Conference All-State


Grayson Hanna ’25
All-Conference

Kazim Oladipo ’25
All-Conference
Honorable mention


Kazim Oladipo ’25
All-Conference


Adkins Allen ’26
All-Conference
Honorable Mention


Spence Saik ’26
All-Conference














BY THE NUMBERS:
51 STUDENTS
271 ACCEPTANCES
65 COLLEGES IN 19 STATES & THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
$5 MILLION PLUS IN MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
63% RECEIVED MERIT SCHOLARSHIP OR HONORS PROGRAM OFFERS
24 DIFFERENT COLLEGES IN 10 STATES
49% HEADING OUT OF STATE TO ATTEND COLLEGE
Lydia Allen - High Point University
Carolyn Ames - Sewanee: University of the South
Aaron Bailey - University of Tennessee
Cooper Berkoff - Drexel University
Alexis Bloomer - North Carolina State University
Landon Breswitz - North Carolina State University
Jack Burke - University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Griffin Chesson - North Carolina State University
Alexys Chisley - University of North Carolina Charlotte
Mackenzie Cline - Washington and Lee University
Walker Coley - Stanford University
Nick Dozier - University of Tennessee
Eliza Everett - Sewanee: University of the South
Sydney Foreman - Arizona State University
Thatcher Garrison - University of Mississippi
Grayson Hanna - University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Kennedy Holmes - North Carolina State University
Mason Kash - North Carolina State University
Vanessa Khan - University of North Carolina Charlotte
Lauren Lloyd - Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Morgan Lloyd - Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Alex Luebke - Carnegie Mellon University
Hutch Marshall - Washington and Lee
Benjy Martin - College of Charleston
Howard Maye - North Carolina State University
Grey McMahon - Wake Forest University
Nikki Neshat - University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Kazim Oladipo - University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Ginny Powell - Auburn University
Caroline Rakestraw - Wake Forest University
Lachlan Rea - North Carolina State University
Pierson Rollman - Wake Forest University
Ella Romero - University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Samiyah Rust - SKEMA Business School
Craig Sanguily - University of Tennessee
Will Sanguily - Auburn University
David Simpson - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Will Sink - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Julius Smith - Boston College
Jake Stickney - Greensboro College
Clark Tant - Alabama University
Walker Tattersall - University of Mississippi
John Thagard - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Leyton Thompson - Auburn University
Owen Thompson - Auburn University
Connor Thornton - East Carolina University
Thomas Vinson - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Anna Grace Wagoner - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Tucker Wells - University of California Los Angeles
Hudson Welsh - University of Tennessee
Jackie Zhou - The Pennsylvania State University
Class of 2025
Alabama
The University of Alabama
Auburn University
Arizona
Arizona State University
California
University of California Los Angeles
University of California San Diego
University of California Santa Barbara
Stanford University
Connecticut
Trinity College
Delaware
University of Delaware
District of Columbia
Howard University
Florida
Rollins College
University of Florida
University of Tampa
University of Miami
Georgia
University of Georgia
Hawaii
Hawai’i Pacific University
Louisiana
Louisiana State University
Massachusetts
Boston College
Mississippi
University of Mississippi
New York
Binghamton University
North Carolina
Appalachian State University
Belmont Abbey College
Campbell University
Davidson College
East Carolina University
Elon University
Greensboro College
High Point University
University of North Carolina Asheville
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
University of North Carolina Charlotte
University of North Carolina Greensboro
University of North Carolina Wilmington
North Carolina A&T State University
North Carolina Central University
North Carolina State University
Queens University
SKEMA Business School
Wake Forest University
Warren Wilson College
Western Carolina University
Wingate University
Ohio
Miami University
Pennsylvania
Bucknell University
Carnegie Mellon

Dickinson College
Drexel University
Pennsylvania State University
South Carolina
Clemson University
College of Charleston
Furman University
University of South Carolina
Wofford College
Tennessee
Rhodes College
Sewanee: The University of the South University of Tennessee Knoxville
Texas
Baylor University
University of Texas at Austin
Virginia
College of William and Mary
James Madison University
Randolph-Macon College
University of Mary Washington
University of Virginia
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Washington and Lee University
Alpha Omegas
Class of 2025








In the fall of 2012, sixteen kindergarten students and their families began a 13-year journey that culminated on May 30, 2025, as they walked across the stage and accepted their diplomas as members of the Class of 2025. Before they embark on their next academic endeavors, we take a moment to highlight these new St. David’s Alpha Omegas and the mark they have left on our campus.
Carolyn Ames
Ginny Powell
John Thagard
Anna Grace Wagoner
Connor Thorton
Caroline Rakestraw
Walker Coley
Nikki Neshat








13 years of a St. David’s journey
Tucker Wells
Hudson Welsh
Howard Maye
Grey McMahon
Kennedy Holmes
Pierson Rollman
David Simpson Julius Smith


Carolyn Ames will attend Sewanee: The University of the South where she plans to major in psychology. A three-sport, four-year letterman at St. David’s, Carolyn is a force of nature in the best of ways. Whether on the fields and courts of play, in the classroom, serving in her role as admissions prefect or simply being a friend, Carolyn makes a meaningful impact wherever she goes. Carolyn earned All-State distinction in lacrosse her tenth-grade year, was captain the last two years and earned the offensive MVP award in tenth and eleventh grade. It’s no surprise she was recruited to play women’s lacrosse at Sewanee where she will be the fiercest of tigers. Reflecting on her 13 years at St. David’s, Carolyn said, “While at St. David’s, I have learned how to be accountable for my mistakes, humble with my successes, and to be patient and kind when dealing with uncomfortable circumstances. Without St. David’s, these traits would have been harder to discover. I would not be the person I am today without all the love, support and smiles that the St. David’s community provides.”


Since the moment he stepped on St. David’s campus as a kindergartener, Walker Coley has had big dreams and plans for success for himself and his community. From confident speeches in lower school, to wearing suits for chapel and carrying the cross in middle school, to Student Body Co-President in upper school, Walker invested himself thoroughly in the life of St. David’s School. Walker has had his hand in almost every facet of St. David’s. He was the lead male role in four theater productions, played on the varsity tennis team, and was instrumental in the creation of and participation in several student activities such as the investment club, Model UN, and student council. Outside of school, Walker has served as a NC Senate Page, worked on various political campaigns and further satisfied his thirst for knowledge through internships and summer programs in economics. He was also one of the finalists in the Coolidge Foundation Declamation Contest. Walker will carry his passion, curiosity and initiative to Stanford University where he plans to major in economics.


Kennedy Holmes has been a steady, guiding voice in the upper school at St. David’s. She served as Model UN co-founder and was instrumental in leading a team of thirty to New York City this spring for the National Model United Nations Conference. There, two team members won an award of excellence for demonstrating impressive debate and diplomacy skills. Kennedy is adept at lifting others up. She captained the tennis team in her senior year and was an inspiration to younger players. Kennedy enjoys serving others and is particularly invested in working with children. After being a long-time camper at Camp Cheerio, she did the necessary training to become a camp counselor and received fantastic reviews from her superiors for her resilience, compassion and care for campers. Whether backstage on build or run crew in the theater, serving in the community through National Charity League, or her school community in student government, Kennedy’s thoughtful, kind, and practical voice often supported her peers and guided everyone to the appropriate outcome. After 13 years at St. David’s, Kennedy will attend NC State in the fall.


Howard Maye looks forward to studying engineering at NC State next year, and he will undoubtedly find himself right at home in that realm. Howard has been engineering for years, constructing a 30-foot ballista for physics class, repairing motorboats, building a car engine for his independent study, and restoring a muscle car to its former glory. He has an insatiable curiosity and a desire to understand the way things work, coupled with the drive to use that knowledge in practical ways. Howard is always prepared to lend a helping hand and see a project through from start to finish. In addition to serving as a leader for National Honor Society, he has welcomed new students as a Gold Key ambassador, served as Vice President of Student Council, led the yearbook staff as editor, and spent his off hours teaching youth sailing classes. It is no surprise that Howard was selected to be the community prefect his senior year. Charged with planning and overseeing events that bring together all three divisions of the school, he orchestrated a fun-filled homecoming parade and a trunk-ortreat celebration for lower school students. Reflecting on his years at St. David’s, Howard cherishes the school’s influence on his faith. He notes, “I’ve been able to foster a connection with God both in and out of school, and I will continue to pursue my faith.”


Grey McMahon epitomizes the St. David’s School core value of leading with humility. While his physical build towers over most of the student body, his personality is calm, supportive and understated. He unknowingly uses his many gifts, talents and character traits to support his family, teammates, and friends. Never one to shy away from self-deprecating humor, Grey can be counted upon to lighten the mood of the room, bring a smile to someone’s face and bring thoughtful ideas to class discussion and student activities. Grey has been an integral part of athletics at St. David’s since sixth grade and could consider the Kevin J. Lockerbie gym as his second home. He has captained the basketball and baseball teams and has been a member of the National Honor Society and investment club. Outside of school, when not practicing or playing for his travel baseball team, Grey regularly volunteered with the Miracle League, where he shared his love of sport with children who have disabilities. Grey will carry on a family tradition of attending Wake Forest University in the fall where he will embrace the “Pro Humanitate” motto and no doubt create his own legacy of wholeheartedness, resilience and compassion for others.


Creative, exuberant, and always up for an adventure, Nikki Neshat has been energizing St. David’s student life since kindergarten through her great attitude, willingness to learn and boundless ideas. As Student Body Co-President, Nikki took on many initiatives including a student-centered welcome presentation new students and recognition of student birthdays in weekly assemblies. In all her endeavors, Nikki makes sure others are included. From younger family members who recently moved to North Carolina to new teammates or peers, Nikki initiates conversations and invites people to participate, hang out or get involved at school. She’s a great team player, collaborator, listener, friend and leader. Nikki regularly wows crowds with her artwork and has been a devoted member of the backstage crew for multiple theater performances. She created the Culinary Culture club and was a member of the Environmental Club and Medical Minds Club. Outside of school, Nikki enjoys playing hockey, wakeboarding and cooking. She even lists suturing as an interest since she plans to work in the medical profession. She has appreciated how the St. David’s faculty and staff encouraged and inspired her to perform her best throughout her years. Nikki plans to study Exercise Science at UNC Wilmington this fall.


Whether reading to younger children in our lower school classrooms, cheering enthusiastically at basketball and football games, or leading a middle school Bible study, Ginny Powell consistently puts others first and comes alive through service. Her standard of excellence is evident in all she does. As cheerleading captain, Ginny has won numerous awards for her unflagging school spirit and big heart. Loyal, responsible, respectful, and caring, she volunteered regularly with National Charity League, serving as a leader the past four years, most recently as President. In her role as Christian Life prefect, Ginny spoke at midday prayer services and encouraged fellow students of all ages with her bright smile and warmheartedness. Even more impressive is the way in which she collaborated and supported the efforts of her fellow prefect board members. Ginny is someone who always shows up to help and stays until the work is done. Even in the summer, she was present on campus, cheerfully assisting with cheerleading camps for younger students. Considering her St. David’s experiences, Ginny recalls one memorable teaching moment from ninth grade Bible class. “We studied the Gospel of John. This was a moment when I realized my life needed to be changed, and I needed to live my life for Jesus.” Ginny looks forward to serving her college community and cheering on the Auburn Tigers next fall.


There is not a facet of St. David’s that Caroline Rakestraw hasn’t influenced for the better. She has assisted the Admissions office as a Gold Key ambassador, participated in every school play, captained the cheer team, led the praise band, and assisted the social media team in publicizing fine arts events. As valedictorian of her class, Caroline is an exemplary student with a keen mind who has won top academic awards in every discipline, earning the honor of AP Scholar with Distinction. She dives into her courses with curiosity and a deep intellect. With her plan to become a physician, Caroline was instrumental in creating the Wellness Warriors Club, a group of students who invited medical professionals to come and speak about their careers. As she prepares to further her studies at Wake Forest University, Caroline recalls a lesson learned in 10th grade pre-calculus. “At the start of the year, I really struggled. I started out the trimester with a very low grade. I had never been in that situation before and did not see a way out of the hole I had put myself in. I went to talk with my teacher. She told me that the grade in that class would not define me and did not diminish my worth. This was one of the first times a teacher had told me that it was okay to be imperfect. She reminded me that Jesus is the only perfect one, and perfect was not a standard that I could achieve. She told me to persevere and do my best for the remainder of the year. I was able to get my grade up but learned more importantly that my best is all I can do.”


Loyal to his friends and welcoming of others, Pierson Rollman is known for good sportsmanship in athletics, honesty in relationships, trustworthiness and integrity in all that he does. He’s someone who can be counted on to do what is right rather than what is popular at the moment. This is apparent on the soccer field, where he is wellrespected by his peers on both sides of the goal. As captain of his year-round team as well as key defender on the St. David’s team, Pierson is tuned in to what’s going on around him on the field, just as he is in the student life of the school. Chosen as Outstanding Defensive Player on our team, Pierson shares his love of soccer as a volunteer with Futbol4All, a free youth league where he helps coach and plays soccer with the kids. With great generosity and woodworking skill, Pierson chose to build a shelf and two wooden benches for the lower school as his Eagle Scout project. His service at the Food Bank and summer work harvesting crops reflect Pierson’s ongoing commitment to serving others. In the classroom, he is dedicated and accomplished, an intuitive problem solver whose curiosity drives his learning. He takes on rigorous coursework and thrives with great interest and hard work, traits that will serve him well at Wake Forest University. Reflecting on his values and what lies ahead, Pierson notes the importance of “taking all that I have learned in school and out to continue leading with humility and dealing with hard situations. I will be confident in my actions, putting others before myself and leading by example.”


After serving backstage, helping to build sets and operate the lights during performance week, David Simpson earned the role of stage manager in eleventh grade (a role usually reserved for seniors). It was the perfect match for his gifts of organization, attention to detail, and desire to avoid being center stage. He flourished in this role and was not only successful in implementation but in forging relationships with all types of peers he had not previously worked with. David credits theater for teaching him how to fail with grace, be open-minded toward the opinions and ideas of others, and expand his capacity for empathy. “I have learned how to ask for help when I need it, but also when to take a step back and reassess,” David said. “While this role has certainly tested my skills and work ethic, through theater, I have gotten to build and reinforce many relationships with both faculty and students that I wouldn’t have otherwise, some of which I know will last long past high school.” David has beautifully expressed and cultivated his leadership qualities in many aspects of school life. He served as Service Prefect, Gold Key ambassador, Model UN Club co-founder and earned his Eagle Scout designation outside of school. David will attend UNC Chapel Hill this fall where he intends to major in business.


Julius Smith likes to be challenged, and he sets the bar high for himself in the classroom and in extracurricular pursuits. An avid year-round golfer, Julius was a member of the conference championship team last year as well as to representing St. David’s in the state championship match. Ever the sportsman but with a heart for service, incorporated golf in his Eagle Scout project. Julius organized a golf tournament and raised $5,500 for community needs, including afterschool academic programs and planting boxes for the preschool in his neighborhood. He credits golf with teaching him discipline, problem-solving skills, personal integrity, and respect for others. And then there’s football and the camaraderie of being on a determined, 8-man team. Julius’s school spirit cannot be silenced. Serving as a team captain, he was all in all the time, a great encourager to his teammates. That dedication extended to the classroom where Julius challenged himself in the most difficult courses offered. As an AP Scholar with Distinction and one of the top students in his class, Julius’ curiosity and thoughtful questions enlivened classroom discussion. He was a cofounder of the Investment Club, where he applied his interest in economics to the ups and downs of the stock market. In his recent independent study, he presented statistical research about trends and bidding in the construction industry. Julius is grateful for the excellent education and Christian values he experienced at St. David’s, and he will rely on that foundation at Boston College, where he intends to study business.


John Thagard credits his years as a Boy Scout with teaching him how to work hard, collaborate well, and treat others with respect. He carries these traits into all that he does, and his accomplishments are many. As a threesport athlete and longtime soccer player, John led the St. David’s soccer team as captain and traveled to Bolivia to play and build relationships with members of a youth league. He’s a frequent volunteer at Futbol4All, where he mentors underserved youth.
For his Eagle Scout project, John drew up a plan and led a group of Scouts in beautifully landscaping the school grounds around the Lassiter House flagpole. Last summer he signed on as a member of the facilities team to paint, power wash, and do whatever was needed to prepare the campus for the next school year. John recently received the annual St. David’s Celebration of Service Award, an honor that is well deserved. John’s integrity led him to serve on the Honor Council and stand out in the classroom. As first clarinet in the wind ensemble, he led his section and was chosen for the state honor band. Fluent in Spanish and an AP Scholar, John’s deep intellect drives his learning and reflects a mental energy that never stops. Drawing on his experiences at St. David’s and his next steps at UNC Chapel Hill, John expects that college will “deepen my expertise in pre-existing passions while helping me to discover new ones. I will put myself out there and meet many new and diverse people with whom I will have to collaborate in order to grow and change.”


When it’s time to choose the cast for the school play next fall, we will be down one actor, someone who truly inhabits each character he portrays and is a natural on stage. That person is Connor Thornton. Connor has made the most of his time in the theater program, from serving on crew to acting. A talented character actor, he often plays roles that come and go in the plot but are quirky and very memorable. Connor welcomes and encourages newcomers who have interest in theater, and he never misses an opportunity to be involved. His second favorite pastime is reading. He often comes to class with his nose in a book and spends 8-10 hours per week perusing new favorites. Connor’s broad interests encompass history, fantasy, biology, and chemistry. He started a book club to share books with his friends and can sometimes be found volunteering in the school library, shelving books and straightening up. His heart for service led Connor to join our Guatemala team during a school break, as they assisted with roadbuilding and repairs in a small village. He embraces the collaborative atmosphere at St. David’s and is a frequent and deeply thoughtful contributor to classroom dialogue. Connor enjoys identifying the “why” behind each question and explores new topics with detail and enthusiasm. He looks forward to being involved in theatre at the college level while studying chemistry at East Carolina and preparing for a career in medicine.


As an Alpha Omega, Anna Grace Wagoner has been deeply committed to the flourishing of St. David’s School and has stepped up in many ways to help the school prosper. Kind-hearted, community-oriented, confident, intellectually curious and fiercely independent, she has served as an ambassador to the admissions office; mentored younger students through a reading program she co-created for her merit scholar project; competed tenaciously on our lacrosse field and cheered joyfully all four years on the cheer squad, leading the team as captain for two years. As athletic prefect, Anna Grace has worked to acknowledge accomplishments by student-athletes, drum up support for athletic teams by encouraging the student body to spectate whole-heartedly and led two pep rallies during the school year that brought the entire community together. Additionally, she planned themed nights for football and basketball seasons.
Outside of school, Anna Grace works every season on her family’s Christmas tree lot and has participated in many summer adventure programs. Reflecting upon her time at St. David’s Anna Grace said, “I have learned how to manage my time well, how to practice patience, and stay determined when challenges come my way.” Anna Grace is headed to UNC Chapel Hill this fall and plans to major in Biology.


Analytical, hardworking and inquisitive, Tucker Wells has worked for thirteen years to do his best in school and learn for learning’s sake. A collaborative learner and doer, Tucker has regularly tutored peers in AP Calculus and AP Physics. Tucker has also contributed mightily to the Grill Club, Engineering Club, and Investment Club. Outside of school, Tucker has served over 400 hours trying to pay back communities that have been significant to him. He’s been a full-time counselor at Camp Dudley in Vermont and regularly served with Raleigh Futbol 4 All as a member of the varsity soccer team. Additionally, he was President of his Boys Team Charity chapter and took great satisfaction in encouraging others to serve. Tucker had this to say about his St. David’s experience, “In my 13 years as an Alpha Omega at St. David’s, I have learned that the best way to persevere through challenges is by putting your faith in others and asking for help. Being in a supportive community like St. David’s, I always knew there was someone who had my back and wanted to help me. Having that made me confident in my abilities, knowing I had something to fall back on and that I could get a helping hand. Knowing when you are wrong or need help is the first step and having the courage to seek out that help is the next.” From Warrior to Bruin, Tucker will attend UCLA this fall and plans to major in mechanical engineering.


Hudson Welsh spends hours in the woods with a hatchet and shovel, building new jumps and curves for his mountain bike rides. A steep cliff provides a challenge to climb, a trail full of roots offers an adventure. He approaches life with the same enthusiasm, curiosity, and can-do attitude. As a member of the Guatemala service team, Hudson helped rebuild a road and remodel a school, forming friendships with local children. An accomplished musician, Hudson excelled on the alto saxophone in the wind ensemble and the state honors band. He values the teamwork involved in making music, joining others to create something beautiful that can’t be made alone. This same philosophy inspired his work in the school’s theater productions, where he served behind the scenes as run crew leader and props master, making sure that when the lights came on, the scenery was ready. On the track and field team, Hudson was a conference champion, state champion, and school record holder in the triple jump. Named an AP Scholar, he also challenged himself academically, offering thoughtful insights in class discussions and bringing creative energy to group projects. Reflecting on his experiences at St. David’s, Hudson appreciates the mentorship from his teachers. Hudson looks forward to exploring new paths and studying finance at the University of Tennessee next fall.
What St. David’s lessons will you carry with you to college and life?
Ms. Hood told me that a grade in a class would not define me and would not diminish my worth. This was one of the first times a teacher had told me that it was okay to be imperfect… She told me to persevere and do my best...I ended up improving my grade, but more importantly, I learned that my best is all I can do.
Caroline Rakestraw
Don’t ever doubt your first guess. Mrs. Purvis always told us to trust our instincts and not second-guess ourselves.
Walker Coley
Knowing when you are wrong or need help is the first step. Having the courage to seek out that help is the next.
Tucker Wells
While at St. David’s, I have learned how to be accountable for my mistakes, humble in my successes, and to be patient and kind when dealing with uncomfortable circumstances… Through all the love, support and smiles that the St. David’s community provides, I would not be the person I am today. Carolyn Ames
SummerChallenge
This year many in our community have read Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, which explores the rise in anxiety, depression, and disconnection among young people—a trend that closely mirrors the decline of real-world, independent experiences and the rise of the “phone-based childhood.” Haidt’s research invites educators, parents, and communities alike to help raise a generation rooted in independence, personal responsibility, and strong relationships.
At St. David’s, this call resonates deeply with our ambition to nurture students in heart, soul, mind, and strength. We are committed to helping them become capable, curious, and resilient individuals who pursue excellence, lead with humility, and seek Christ. We understand that growth is the product of experience –through trying, failing, problem-solving, leading, and stepping into the world with courage and conviction. These timeless skills are foundational to becoming uncommon people who persevere, embrace learning, and collaborate generously.
This summer, we are carrying that tradition forward with a new initiative inspired by The Anxious Generation: a set of ageappropriate challenges designed to spark growth, grit, and joy. Each list contains thirty tasks—ranging from cooking a meal to leading a group activity—that grow in responsibility from lower to upper school.
These challenges are designed to help our students experience what many of our alumni, parents, and grandparents will recognize from their own childhoods: the satisfaction of doing something hard, real, and meaningful. We can’t wait to hear the stories our students bring back to campus as they discover the joy of doing hard things—stories of growth, courage, and deeper confidence in who they’re becoming.

Tips for Success
These challenges are designed to grow in difficulty across age levels. If your child finds their level too easy, feel free to encourage them to try the next one up! Tweak the challenges to fit your family’s needs – just try not to make them easier.
Your child might choose to complete all 30 age-appropriate challenges or pick one per theme for a set of 10. We recommend talking through the challenges at the start, then stepping back to give your child as much independence as possible. Struggle and failure are part of this process – encourage them to try, try again!
Lower School
Responsibility
ONE
Pack your own bag for a pool or a park outing
Order your own food or snack politely
Communication
Problem-Solving
Physical Independence
Solve a forgotten-item problem
Ride your bike or scooter on a familiar route
Make your own breakfast for a week
Self-Sufficiency
Digital Discipline
Spend each afternoon outside with no screens
Put a Band-Aid® on yourself or help a sibling
TWO
Refill your water bottle and clean it daily
Call a grandparent or family friend
Fix a broken toy or game using tools or tape
Climb a tree or play structure safely
Sweep or vacuum one room every day
Build or make something using only your hands
Say “I’m sorry” when you make a mistake
THREE
Feed and care for a pet or plant for a week
Ask a librarian or store clerk a question
Create a new outdoor game using what you find
Walk around the block without an adult
Fold and put away your own laundry
Go a full day without asking for a screen
Wait your turn without interrupting
Emotional Maturity
Set the table without being asked
Initiative & Leadership
Choose what to wear based on the weather
Decision-Making
Invite a new friend to play
Help lead a game or read-aloud for younger kids
Decide how to spend a $5 bill
Pick an activity for a family outing
Intergenerational Skills
Interview a grandparent about their favorite summer memory
Help a family member cook or garden
Write a postcard or letter to an older family friend or relative
Middle School
ONE
Create and follow a weekly chore schedule
Call to schedule your own appointment
Handle a schedule conflict without adult help
Walk or bike to a store and return safely
TWO
Help a neighbor – e.g. put out trash cans, collect mail while out of town.
Introduce yourself to someone new at camp
Solve a real-world issue - e.g., broken bike, missed ride
Navigate home from a family outing (church, pool, friend’s house)
Cook a full meal (including sides)
Pick a screenfree time of day - e.g before 12 PM, after 7 PM
Apologize to someone face-to-face
Plan a game night or family celebration
Create and stick to a summer budget
THREE
Pack and prep for a trip on your own
Ask an adult a thoughtful question and listen to the answer
Learn something new without using the internet
Organize an outing with a friend at a public location
Clean your room and do laundry weekly
Plan a screenfree outing with friends
Respond calmly when plans change Teach a younger child a new skill
Choose how to spend a free day meaningfully
Help an older adult with errands or tech
Create and follow a summer morning routine
Track and reduce screen time over a week
Reflect on a hard moment in writing
Lead a group hike, game, or picnic
Evaluate pros/ cons before a major purchase
Have a 10-minute chat with an older family friend or relative
Cook a family recipe with an older family friend or relative
ONE
Take charge of a recurring family task - e.g. mowing the lawn, making dinner
TWO
Manage your own doctor appointments or work schedule
Write a professional email to a coach, teacher, or boss
Resolve a peer conflict respectfully
Coordinate transportation from one place to another without intervention
Meal plan, shop, and cook for a week of meals
Go 48 hours without social media, video games, or streaming services
Initiate a difficult conversation face-to-face
Plan and lead a service project or event without intervention
Create and track a personal spending plan
Host a dinner with friends and adults
Budget and plan a solo or group day trip
Have an intentional conversation with someone outside your peer group
Adjust your plans when something falls through
Plan and complete a solo outing with check-ins
Deep clean a shared space
Designate a phone-free hour daily for two weeks
Write a journal or letter reflecting on personal growth
Mentor a younger student or sibling
Choose between two big opportunities and explain your choice
Interview an older family friend or relative about a major life decision
Responsibility
Make a phone call instead of texting
Troubleshoot or repair something on your own
Prep and complete a hike or excursion with a map and supplies
Create and stick to a personal daily routine for two weeks
Replace one hour of screen time with a skill or hands-on activity
Offer sincere feedback or encouragement to a peer
Organize a group outing (including all logistics)
Take the first step toward a long-term personal goal
Write a thank-you letter to someone who has helped shape you
Communication
Upper School
Problem-Solving
Physical Independence
Self-Sufficiency
Digital Discipline
Emotional Maturity
Initiative & Leadership
Decision-Making
Intergenerational Skills
Alumni Spotlight
As Anisa Barutis ’22 prepared to graduate from North Carolina State University with a degree in business administration and finance, law school seemed like the logical next step. She had registered for the LSAT and was deep into preparation when an unexpected opportunity quite literally came knocking at her door. After graduating in just three years, she landed a position in wealth management at Weston Banks with St. David’s alumni parent Jason Steele. Now thriving in her role, Barutis reflects on how her St. David’s foundation prepared her not just for academic success, but for navigating life’s unexpected turns with faith and confidence.
Looking back on her time at St. David’s, Barutis credits the school’s rigorous academics with preparing her exceptionally well for college. Her teachers fostered an atmosphere where learning was valued and questions were encouraged. “After my experience in Upper School at St. David’s, I never had an issue asking a question of a professor, even in a lecture of 300 people. I was never afraid to ask for help when I needed it,” she recalls. This confidence to seek help and engage actively served her well as she took on leadership roles at NC State, including serving as president of her sorority for a year. What she missed most during her time at State was the close-knit community she had known since starting at St. David’s in middle school. This longing encouraged her to recreate that “family atmosphere” in college and beyond, seeking out friends who are deeply rooted in their faith and share similar values.
The faith foundation she received at St. David’s became crucial when her carefully laid plans began to shift. “The more I tried to plan what I thought I wanted to do, God really just intervened and said, ‘Oh no, this is not what
you’re doing,’” Barutis shares. Instead of fighting the change, she chose to trust. “The more I just trusted Him, had faith that His plan for me was way bigger than anything I could have seen for myself... I realized that was Him stepping into my life and helping me see this is the path I needed to be taking.”
That path of trust led her to wealth management, where she is discovering meaningful work that extends far beyond managing finances. At Weston Banks, where the tagline is “together for significance,” Barutis helps clients think beyond wealth accumulation to wealth

For Nathan Honaker ’10, the path from St. David’s to his current role as an attorney and lobbyist in Raleigh has been guided by principles of faith, virtue, and knowledge that were deeply instilled during his formative years. After earning his bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University— where he continued to pursue music with an oboe scholarship—and his law degree from UNC Chapel Hill, Honaker now runs his own practice while also representing diverse clients as a lobbyist. His work spans Fortune 500 companies, agricultural groups, nonprofits, and small businesses, but it’s his commitment to integrity that defines his professional approach.
The foundation for Honaker’s writing-intensive career was laid in the AP history classrooms at St. David’s. Under the guidance of teachers like Mrs. Stephanie Chiulli in European History and Mrs. Karen Barnes in US History, he learned not just the mechanics of research and citation, but how to write with clarity and purpose. “Those two ladies did a fantastic job of teaching the nuts and bolts of that type of writing but also how to write in a way which was clear, concise and interesting to the reader,” Honaker reflects. “I had no idea I would write so much in my professional life, and I feel those classes were my first steps to learning to write professionally.” This skill has proven invaluable in his dual roles, where effective communication is essential whether drafting contracts, preparing legal briefs, or advocating for clients before the North Carolina General Assembly.
What Honaker carries most prominently from his St. David’s experience is an approach to life and work rooted in active engagement rather than passive participation.
“St David’s is not a school where it is easy to be a passive
student,” he explains. “That style of learning, usually discussionoriented and student-focused, gives everyone a chance to explore and grow.” This philosophy has translated directly into his professional life, where he takes an active approach to creating opportunities for both his family and clients to succeed. His experience with Mr. Terlizzi, who traveled across the state

commitment to going above and beyond—a standard Honaker
Perhaps most significantly, Honaker’s professional choices reflect the integration of faith, virtue, and knowledge that St. David’s emphasizes. “My faith in Christ informs every part of my life,” he shares. “Any virtue I possess is the fruit of my relationship with the Lord and any knowledge I possess is a gift from Him through others.” This conviction leads him to be selective about his clients, turning down opportunities that don’t align with his values. As he puts it, “Your integrity and your reputation are two things that cannot be purchased at any price.” His goal is to build a career foundation based on faith, virtue, and knowledge, trusting that “the rest will fall into place according to God’s plan”
—a testament to how St. David’s core values continue to guide his path in law and public service.
A Year in Photos
1: March 2025: Senior Lacrosse players embrace each other and the moment at the beginning of their final St. David’s sports season.
2: August 11: Aaron Bailey and his sisters kicking off his senior year at the parking space painting party. The parking lot is always a little more interesting after this event.
3: August 13: Fresh and ready to start another year, the first day of school kicked off with doughnuts in the courtyard during the welcoming carpool.
4: September 21: These eighth graders smashed the competition in the MS Game Night volleyball tournament.
5: August 23: Despite the heat, the Friends Family Picnic is always a cool way to start the year. This community-wide event includes food, fellowship and a rock-climbing wall for those who dare.
6: September 20: A Homecoming week tradition, the Lower School students gather in the amphitheater in preparation for the “Fit to be a Warrior” Fun Run.
7: August 26: Middle School students and faculty members sign the St. David’s Honor Pledge, vowing to “faithfully uphold the principles of the honor code…”
8: September 20: Homecoming 2024! Congratulations to the King, Jake Stickney ’25; Queen, Anna Grace Wagoner ’25; and Maid, Jordyn Driggers ’26 escorted by Luke Viera ’26.
9: October 4: In response to the desperate needs of our neighbors in western North Carolina, the St. David’s community filled a box truck with donations to go to the communities devastated by Hurricane Helene.
10: October 10: After weeks of study, the Lower School International Day presentations took visitors around the world, from England to Egypt, and many more countries, showcasing what students have learned about the world around them.
11: October 16: What’s your favorite book? For these three Lower School young ladies, it’s Pete the Cat!
12: October 17: The St. David’s Fine Arts department presents “Radium Girls” a play that depicts the true story of the female workers of the US Radium Company who became ill with a mysterious disease and fought their former employer, leading to nationwide worker protections.
13: October 9: A cornerstone of the St. David’s experience is weekly chapel services for all divisions. Each service begins with the procession of the cross.
14: October 29: Lower School art students study the illustrations of “Leave a Little More” a children’s book illustrated by St. David’s parent Tacey Hesmer.
15: January 6: At the annual Junior/Senior/Alumni Panel, alumni from a range of class years return to campus to share experiences of “college and life” with soon-to-be St. David’s graduates.
16: January 7: Mr. Hillegass presents the “Becky Roof Award” to Mrs. Jamie Martin, Assistant Director of College Counseling and Chair of the Prefect Program. This annual award is given to the employee who exemplifies the “Roof-like” qualities of kindness, diligence, and faithful service to St. David’s School.
17: February 12: The fourth-grade Wax Museum is one of the many highlights of these students’ final year of Lower School. Students research a famous person and present, in costume, a short biography of their chosen character. This year we met Cleopatra, Queen Elizabeth II, Caitlin Clark, Jackie Robinson, Albert Einstein, and many others.
18: February 1: A quick photo before the Upper School’s Winterfest Dance, which wraps up a week-long celebration of winter sports and activities.
19: January 24: At the first grade’s Winter Tea, students enjoy an array of snacks and activities, with a few cubes of etiquette stirred in.

20: December 10: The lighting of the Advent wreath begins the annual Lower School Lessons and Carols service. 1 2 6 7 11 12 16 17





























6 11 16 2 7 12 17 3

















A Year in Photos
1: February 12: This year’s winter musical, Roald Dahl’s “Matilda,” featured student actors from all three divisions in this musical drama about celebrating uniqueness and overcoming adversities.
2: February 17: Hail to the Chief! Third grade’s annual President’s Night presentation is a delightful evening of campaign-esque speeches and oversized wigs. It’s a memorable way to learn American history in an immersive way.
3: April 3: The talents of our youngest students were on display at the Lower School Recital. Singers, dancers, gymnasts and musicians took the stage to perform for their parents and friends.
4: May 21: As the year comes to a close, the Middle School took to the field for their annual Field Day.
5: May: Class parties abound as the school year comes to a close. And we are all smiles for an ice cream sundae on the porch of the Lassiter House.
6: May 23: A celebratory hug among friends as these kindergarten students enjoy a beautiful morning on the John A. Murray Field for Field Day.
7: May 28: Second grade teacher Emily Lawson gets a hug from Lower School Principal LeeAnne Whitworth at the Lower School Honors Day service. Ms. Lawson was the Lower School’s “Excellence in Teaching” award winner for the 24-25 school year.
8: January 9: Always up for any opportunity for play, on a balmy January day, Mr. Humphrey dons his winter gear and a snow machine for a seasonally-appropriate social media photo op!
9: May 29: Upper School students line up to receive their yearbooks following Honors Day.
10: November 13: Upper School students spent a week in the fall hosting a Bible camp for Lower School mates. Throughout the week students learned about the armor of God through creative activities.
11: May 22: The annual senior trip to Greece caps off the St. David’s experience for our seniors. One of the highlights of the trip is visiting the ancient sites across the country, including the Acropolis in Athens.
12. May 12: The Senior Walk gives 12th graders one last walk around campus, allowing them (and their parents) a moment to reflect on their St. David’s journey and reminisce about the people and memories they will carry with them through college and life.
13: May 29: Ninth-grade Humanities teacher Hunter Whitworth and his family celebrate his selection as the recipient of the Upper School’s “Excellence in Teaching” award.
14: May 16: Meet “t” and “U,” just two our Letterland friends in the annual Pre-K Letterland Parade. Perhaps one of the cutest events on campus each year.
15: October 11: The Michael daughters spend time in the Grandparents Day photo booth.
16: October 24: Meet the Warriors! Lower School students spent part of their day collecting the autographs of our Senior fall sports athletes. It’s unclear who enjoyed the afternoon more, but it’s clear the event was a touchdown.

17: May 27: The 2024-25 edition of the Logos yearbook was dedicated to Assistant Head of School Miriam Leshnock during an end of the year Middle School assembly.
18: December 11: The Christmas Band concert features ALL St. David’s bands, even the students just beginning their band journey.
20: May 29: Senior Alexys Chisley received the “Headmaster’s Cup” for her positive impact on St. David’s School during her educational experience. Among her many accolades, Alexys was the Fine Arts Prefect, a varsity cheerleader, choreographer, and Gold Key Ambassador. 4 9 14 19 5 10 15 20
19: May 28: Mr. James Potter, 5th grade history teacher, was surprised to see his family at the Middle School Honors Assembly. Mr. Potter was the Middle School’s “Excellence in Teaching” award recipient.
919-782-3331
StDavidsRaleigh.org/admission
@stdavidsschool
