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Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Houston, Texas Permit No. 9081

Houston, Texas 77019-5897

S C H O O L

UPDATE

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION 2401 Claremont Lane

J O H N ’ S

Volume 84

Graduation • Spring Fling • Alumni Events

C o n s t r u c t i o n a t S t . J o h n’s

Fall 2024

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The Alumni Magazine of St. John’s School 713.850.0222

alumni@sjs.org

Head of School

A LU M N I E V E N T S & I M P O R TA N T DAT E S

DANIEL J. ALIG

Director of Advancement DAWSEY ROMERO

Volume 84 Fall 2024 Editor SUSAN CHAMBERLIN MUNSON ’97

SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER

Alumni Awards Nominations Mon., Sept. 9 Wed., Oct. 30, 2024 Nominations may be made by alumni via the SJS website. ........

College-Age Alumni Tea 12 pm - 1:30 pm Thurs., Dec. 19, 2024 in the Quadrangle ........

OCTOBER Alumni Football Watch Party 7 pm - 9 pm, Fri., Oct. 4, 2024 in the Tradition Room ........

Alumni Board Nominations Wed., Jan. 15 Mon., Feb. 24, 2025 Nominations may be made via the SJS website. ........

NOVEMBER

MARCH

St. John’s Network Social 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm, Thurs., Nov. 14, 2024 in Flores Hall ........

Alumni Phonathon 6 pm - 8 pm Tues., Mar. 18, 2025 in Flores Hall ........

JANUARY

SAVE THE DATE

Writers & Contributors LISA ARAGÓN-STOKES PHILIP CANNON ’85

2 25 APRIL 25-26, 2025

ANNIE CHARLOT STEPHANIE CROWL BAILEY DUNCAN TESS GEE SARAH MCLAUGHLIN MARC NATHAN

WHO AM I? HELP US IDENTIF Y THESE “MYSTERY ALUMNI” If you know who these students are, please contact alumni@sjs.org. Thank you!

PHOTOGRAPHERS, INC. MICHELLE ROBERTS DAWSEY ROMERO ALEX WILL CATHERINE WILLIFORD Senior Designer JIM CUNNINGHAM Jim Cunningham Design

Our Mission Statement

Template Design ELLEN PEEPLES CREGAN ’81 Cregan Design

St. John’s is an independent, co-educational day school presenting a 13-year sequence of college preparatory training. A non-profit institution, it was founded in 1946 to provide the community with a school of exacting standards in the development of individual, spiritual, ethical, intellectual, social, and physical growth. While the means to achieve that purpose may change, it remains the basic mission of the School.

Special thanks to the numerous parents, alumni, students, faculty, and staff who contributed to this issue. Please Note: In an ongoing effort to be good stewards of the School’s and Earth’s resources, we have reduced the number of Update magazines printed and now offer an electronic version. Please let us know if you would like to update your email address in the School’s database in order to receive an electronic copy, or if you would prefer not to receive a hard copy of the magazine.

The School seeks to develop the whole person in preparation for a lifetime of personal fulfillment and contribution to society. In particular, it is dedicated to the enhancement and the expansion of future leadership for Houston and the country. The School offers talented, motivated, and energetic students a genuine challenge for academic accomplishment and for development of a sense of self-worth and of personal responsibility. The School in turn holds itself responsible for providing that challenge.

WHO AM I - SPRING 2024 Class of 1986: CHRIS JOHNSON, CHRISTIAN ECKMAN, BRITT BENTON, JOHN HARDIMON, and JOHN BICKNELL

ON THE COVER: Construction in progress on the new softball field and tennis courts. Photo submitted by Chris Casey (husband of MARIAN MOORE CASEY ’85) and was taken from The River Oaks condominium building (facing south) on the morning of Friday, September 13.

Identified by JOE KNAUTH ’88, MARTY THOMPSON ’91, and DAVID PULASKI ’86

The St. John’s School Update is published by the School’s Advancement Office and is available for alumni, parents, and friends of St. John’s School. For more information, or to report an email or mailing address change, please contact 713.850.0222 ext. 223.

S T .

J O H N ’ S

S C H O O L

UPDATE Letter from Dan Alig, Head of School ........................................................p a g e 2

FeatureStories Graduation Coverage ............................................................................................4 • Alumni with Graduating Seniors • List of Schools & Colleges Opening Day Assembly ......................................................................................12 K-12 Back-to-School Dinner ............................................................................13

AroundCampus Campus Construction ........................................................................................14 Trustee, Faculty, & Staff Reception ................................................................17 New & Departing Trustees ................................................................................20 Chapman Award ..................................................................................................22 Reunion Weekend Recap....................................................................................23 Fellowship Grants ................................................................................................26 Chidsey Society ....................................................................................................37

AlumniNews Letter from Rebecca Linn Hughes ’06, Alumni Board President ................38 Summer Internship Program............................................................................40 2024 Send-Off ......................................................................................................43 LinkedIn Alumni Group ....................................................................................44

ClassNotes ......................................................................................................45 InMemoriam ....................................................................................................78 Alumni Association Mission Statement: The mission of the St. John’s School Alumni Association is to enhance relationships among St. John’s alumni and between the alumni and the School, to perpetuate the School’s ideals and goals, and to sustain its strong foundations. 1

LETTER FROM DANIEL J. ALIG, HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear St. John’s Community, n late August, I was saddened to learn of Alice Kagi’s passing. An Emerita faculty member, she served the School for over three decades, from 1979 until her retirement in 2011. Alice was an institution in the Science Department and a force on the Upper School faculty. She taught biology throughout her tenure and served as our Department Chair for many of those years. It’s not an exaggeration to say that hundreds of medical researchers and healthcare workers around the country — including dozens of Texas Medical Center doctors — got their life-science inspiration in her biology lab. Alice loved science with her whole being, and her passion for it was contagious.

As a young teacher here, I observed Alice’s classes often in the early 2000s. News of her death made me nostalgic, so I quickly flipped through my mental slidedeck of her in action:

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Alice paces around her lab as she regales students on the impact of the Human Genome Project.

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Alice dons her white coat at 6:30 to prepare for a day’s labs.

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Alice commutes on bicycle between her Boulevard Oaks home and campus — as a septuagenarian, no less.

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Alice returns to campus shortly after being hit by a car on one such commute and, behind a walker, navigates the North Campus relentlessly and fearlessly, broken hip be damned.

My first mind’s-eye snapshot of Alice doesn’t place her in a biology lab or in front of students, though. Alice is at the faculty lounge’s Bunn hot-water spout, steeping the morning’s fifth styrofoam cup of green tea: “Just getting my antioxidants, Dan.” Standing next to her is legendary Emeritus Latin and philosophy teacher Tony Sirignano, who served St. John’s from 1982 to 2008 and passed away in 2010. Tony fills the lounge with laughter and Pall Mall redolence as he and Alice playfully bicker — a battle of New York accents, hers from Rochester and his from the Bronx. Ever the hard-charger, Alice was always on the move, but she slowed down for Tony in the faculty lounge. They both wore their hearts on their sleeves, they admired each other’s prodigious classroom gifts, and they loved to share ideas and challenge each other. Religion, pedagogy, current events — no topic was out of bounds for them. My Midwestern sensibilities blanched from time to time at their volume, but I was always struck by their passionate exchanges, fierce intellectualism, and clear fondness for one other. Alice and Tony celebrated the life of the mind in that faculty lounge. With students, they shared their love of learning in starkly different ways — as different as her green tea and his cigarettes. Alice was part impassioned tour guide, part platoon commander. It was decidedly her lab, and she lectured with incredible expertise and enthusiasm, with vivid personal anecdotes, and with an avalanche of biological facts and insights. Alice directed and performed, truly the sage on the stage; students were rapt — and awed.

Tony showed every bit as much brilliance and content command, but his classes were conversations. He mostly sat among students and gently, comically elicited their philosophical ponderings and Latin translations. If Alice’s classes were performances suffering no fools, Tony’s were dinner parties — he expected excellence but generated it with a soft touch and avuncular spirit. As his 2010 obituary noted, “Tony was one of the greatest of Socratic teachers, a ‘turner of souls’ who cared for his every student in every encounter.” Tony exuded wit and warmth; students were embraced and elevated — and inspired.

2024-2025 St. John’s School Board of Trustees

For decades, Alice and Tony mesmerized St. John’s students. They were master teachers. They changed the trajectories of people’s lives and careers. They profoundly shaped colleagues’ teaching craft — certainly including my own. These days, I spend a lot of time talking and thinking about great teaching, St. John’s lifeblood. Alice and Tony remind me how various and varied great teachers are — how complex and multifaceted the art of connecting to and inspiring young people can be. Sometimes the craft beggars description. Narrow definitions and bureaucratic checklists hardly suffice.

Elizabeth N. Stepanian Secretary

In an online tribute to Tony, ADAM WAGMAN ’88 wrote, “You were more than a teacher and a friend; you were the light in darkness. You did more than bring out the best in me; you led me to become better than my best. You were mortal, but our memories of you and our bettered selves are your immortality. I miss you.”

William Gentry Lee, Jr. ’90 Chair Christopher B. Johnson ’86 Vice Chair Camilo E. Muñoz Treasurer

August Al-Uqdah Laura Arnold Jean-Pierre Baizan ’86 Scott Bender ’71 Kathy Britton Alan Christensen Holbrook Dorn Angela Fullen Kate Hobby Gibson ’83 Will Giraud ’98 Lacey Fluor Goossen ’02 David Harvey

I, too, miss Alice Kagi and Tony Sirignano. America does not bestow significant status or treasure on teachers, yet the great ones do render themselves immortal — their lessons and voices resonating for decades and generations. I hear Alice’s lecture. I hear Tony’s laughter. I hear their water-cooler banter. I see them modeled in St. John’s classrooms each week. Alice and Tony remain exemplars. They continue to shape teaching and learning on Claremont Lane as we seek to replicate them for this generation — their love for ideas, their love for students, their inspiration.

Tola Laniyan Andrew D. McCullough, Jr. ’86 LeRoy Melcher ’78 Ba Nguyen ’92 Leslie Elkins Sasser Jonathan Sloan ’03 Jing Zhou

Sincerely,

DANIEL J. ALIG, Head of School

Class of 2024 T H E 7 4 T H G R A D U AT I N G C L A S S O F S T. J O H N ’ S

accalaureate was held in the Church of St. John the Divine the evening prior to Thursday’s Commencement ceremony. Head Prefect MICHAEL MURPHY ’24 shared parting words to his fellow classmates and Dr. Ryan DePuit, Upper School Physics teacher, was chosen to deliver the Baccalaureate address.

The Commencement ceremony for the Class of 2024 took place on Thursday, May 23 on the Great Lawn. The event began with a ceremonial bagpipe procession of the graduating class. Dr. Huda Zoghbi, former parent, former trustee, and recipient of the 2024 Honorary Alumna Award, gave a heartfelt speech inspiring the graduates to always prosper in both their professional and personal endeavors. To view both ceremonies, visit the SJS Livestream page: youtube.com/@SJSMavTV

EMMA CHANG, NADIYA NAEHR, EMMA NGUYEN, ELLISON ALBRIGHT

NADIA KHERA, MADDIE FRANK, KATE LU, MARY HO

JOEY CRAIN, SAM HUMPHRIES, NOLAN HUGHES, ZELL GODBOLD

Back row, l to r: WILLOW ZERR, SLOAN BRINKER, BETHANY OWENS, ISABELLE GOMEZ Front row, l to r: NAINA PAI, LILLIAN VEAZEY, CHLOE DAVIS, AVA RICE

JAYAN SHULTZ, HENRY MAGDOL, REESE STEPANIAN, NICHOLAS STURGIS, LOGAN DONLEY, KATHAN KALAVAR, WYNNE DUNCAN, KIERAN COFFEY, DANYEL POWERS

Graduation photography courtesy of Marc Nathan Photographers, Inc.

FeatureStories

B AC CA L A U R E AT E

“ All that I ask is that wherever you are, take

“ You should always be curious about something

the time to try to find and acknowledge every little joy in your life .... Go out and explore. Try new things and continue to find joy. Remember that no matter how far we are, we are family. ”

to take action. Take action because you are interested and excited, not because the rubrics and checklists said so. When you leave school, there are no procedures or checklists to follow and no grades to tell you that you made the right decision. That means you must take chances even if you think you might fail.”

HEAD PREFECT Michael Murphy ’24

FACULTY ADDRESS Dr. Ryan DePuit Upper School Science, Physics — Continued on next page

FeatureStories

COMMENCEMENT

“ Enjoy your triumph, graduates, and may the richness of relationships in your lives feed everything you do.”

COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER Dr. Huda Zoghbi Distinguished Service Professor of Pediatrics, Molecular and Human Genetics, Neurology, and Neuroscience at Baylor College of Medicine

FeatureStories

ALUMNI WITH GRADUATING SENIORS

ADAM POLLOCK ’87 with TYLER ’24

CRIS INFANTE SMITH ’86 with LIBBY ’24

BRIAN HAUFRECT ’94 with WILLIAM ’24

DANIEL PESIKOFF ’95 with ISABELLE ’24

DANIELLE WILLIAMS SAADIA ’91 with GABRIELLA ’24

GEORGE BRITTON ’88 with THOMAS ’24

SARAH BUSH McKENNEY ’94 with ADDISYN ’24

EDWARD AVILES ’88 with NICO ’24

JOSEPH FLOWERS ’84 with JAMES ’24

KRISTY FORBES VITS ’87 with NATHAN ’24

STUART DOW ’84

WILL BAKER ’95

with ELEANOR ’24

with LAUREN ’24

FeatureStories

ABIGAIL ’21, LILLIAN ’24, and MARY ABBOTT POAG ’89

FRANK HOGAN ’95, HUNTER ’24, and RYAN ’22

MARGARET VAUGHAN COX ’84 with CORBIN ROBINSON ’24

LISA LAUX KALAVAR ’95 with KATHAN ’24, LAURA LAUX HIGGINS ’92, and family

JON BYERS ’96

FINNIAN ’26, STEPHEN OWSLEY ’75, LUCIANA ’24, MANSFIELD ’21, and Cabrina

with JACKSON ’24 — Continued on next page

FeatureStories

NOT PICTURED:

ALUMNI WITH GRADUATING SENIORS

KATHERINE PANNILL CENTER ’90 and THOMAS CENTER ’24 JOHN MOODY ’91 and WYATT MOODY ’24 KIM BROUSSARD ROQUEMORE ’87 and ZOË OLAN ’24 JIM PERDUE ’87 and CHARLIE PERDUE ’24

IZZY ’20, GEORGIA ’24, DALE SCHWARTZ ANDREWS ’91

RINA WONG CHANG ’90, DAWSON ’24, LANEY ’21

LAURA ROWE ’83, GRACEY ’26, VIRGINIA CAROLYN ’24, BRUCE CRAWFORD ’74

LIZ NAU STEPANIAN ’92 with REESE ’24, Andy, and KATHARINE ’22

JASON POWERS ’88 with DANYEL ’24 and family

JULIE YOUNG SUDDUTH ’92 with MARY CAROLINE ’24 and family

FeatureStories

B E S T O F LU C K

St. John’s graduates from the Class of 2024 are attending the following colleges and universities. We wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors!

Amherst College Austin College Baylor University (2) Brown University (3) Carnegie Mellon University Colby College (2) Columbia University (3) Cornell University (2) Dartmouth College (2) Davidson College Denison University Duke University (2) Emory University Georgetown University (2) Hamilton College Harvard University Haverford College Hendrix College Indiana University-Bloomington (2) Johns Hopkins University (2) Macalester College Massachusetts Institute of Technology (3) Middlebury College Millsaps College New York University (7) Northeastern University (2)

Northwestern University Nova Southeastern University Oberlin College Princeton University (2) Purdue University (4) Rhodes College Rice University (8) Southern Methodist University (5) Southwestern University (2) Spelman College (2) St. John’s College Stanford University (2) Texas A&M University (7) Texas Christian University (2) The George Washington University The University of Findlay The University of Texas at Austin (23) Trinity College Dublin Columbia University Dual BA Trinity University Tufts University (4) Tulane University (2) University of California-Irvine University of California-Santa Barbara University of Chicago (4) University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign University of Maryland-College Park University of Miami (3) University of Michigan University of Notre Dame University of Oklahoma University of Oregon (2) University of Pennsylvania University of Richmond (3) University of Southern California (6) University of Tulsa University of Utah University of Virginia (6) Vanderbilt University (8) Villanova University Wake Forest University Washington and Lee University Washington University in St. Louis (2) Wellesley College Wesleyan University (2) William & Mary (2) Yale University (3)

FeatureStories

OPENING DAY ASSEMBLY

n the morning of the first day of school, K-12 students, faculty, and staff gathered on Liu Court for the annual Opening Assembly. Our youngest Mavericks, from Kindergarten and Class 1, were paired with Class 12 students and entered the gym hand in hand to kick off the morning. A student representative from each division — Lower, Middle, and Upper — welcomed new and returning students back to campus and gave well wishes for the new school year.

Flanked by signs highlighting the School’s Precepts & Principles — Care, Honesty & Integrity, Courtesy & Consideration, Loyalty & Spirited Devotion, Gratitude — Head of School Dan Alig kicked off the new school year delivering a message about community and encouragement for a great school year ahead. The assembly culminated with one student from each class — Class 12 to Kindergarten — sharing a fact about St. John’s School and its history. The event was wrapped up with the singing of the alma mater, led by Upper School choral group Kantorei and accompanied by Aaron Hervey. Then, it was dismissal by division for everyone to head out and start their first day of school! Welcome back!

FeatureStories

K-12 BACK-TO-SCHOOL DINNER On August 25, SJS families, faculty, and staff united for a delightful K-12 Back-to-School Dinner. More than 1,300 members of the St. John’s community dined on delicious pasta in Flores Hall and enjoyed outdoor games on the Great Lawn. Despite the scorching weather, our tight-knit community relished the opportunity to reconnect and kick off the academic year together. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the exceptional dining services and facilities teams for their unwavering dedication in ensuring a fun evening for everyone!

AroundCampus

Campus Construction PROJECTS ON THE TAUB CAMPUS n the spring of 1992 the St. John’s tennis program unknowingly played their last matches on home courts for what would turn out to be decades. Since that time, our tennis athletes have had to commute around the city for practices – practices that have been limited in time and scope because of the commute and court sharing. St. John’s tennis athletes have lacked the benefit of home-court advantage and have played without spectators. Through it all, our players persevered and the program continued to grow and thrive resulting in numerous championships. At long last, the wait for on-campus courts is finally over. As Boys Head Tennis Coach Sam Chambers puts it, “Advantage, Mavericks with home tennis courts for the first time in over three decades. This is a game changer for the program.”

Between construction fencing showcasing our very own Mavericks logo, piles of dirt, earth movers, and enormous underground piping, it’s no secret that new facilities for softball and tennis are well on their way. The Blanton Family Tennis Center with six lighted courts is slated to open for use by spring 2025. Coach ZeZe de Moura says, “I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am about our new tennis courts. The new tennis facility at St. John’s will really elevate our program. With six new courts, we will have the space to cater to all levels, from the youngest beginners to advanced players. Offering a variety of lessons, camps, and high-performance training will definitely boost skill development and enthusiasm in our players.”

Coaches and athletes alike are excited for the new facility. Tennis players KAYDEN JOHNSON ’27 and SHIV KHERA ’26 agree that having tennis courts on campus will bring new energy to the program. Playing on campus means they’ll finally have student, faculty, and parent spectators attending their games and cheering them on. It will also cut down commute times and allow them to focus on team building and training. Further, having tennis courts back on campus allows greater accessibility to our tennis players year-round. Each of these benefits will culminate into what players believe will result in a new era of Maverick tennis. Junior KHALEEL WALJI ’26 offered, “I think I speak for the team when I say we're all ecstatic to have home courts, where we can grind on and off season, making us more and more prepared to take our much-deserved SPC title. I'm looking forward to seeing the team grow in a new way, and pushing our performance boundaries.” Head of School Dan Alig is ready to make good on these longtime plans noting that “Our boys and girls tennis teams have been perennial SPC powers. Having lighted courts on campus will further bolster these programs and save them hundreds of commute hours, eliminating the need to send Middle and Upper School players across the city for practices and ‘home’ competitions.”

AroundCampus

Likewise, the new softball complex is a welcome upgrade. With the proximity to Randall Field and the Ligums Practice Facility, Alig noted that “Softball players will be able to bat away from, not into, the setting sun; they will have easy access to batting cages; and they will play under lights, which will greatly increase scheduling flexibility.” Water detention and irrigation will also mean that players will compete more with SPC and less with the muddy fields. Girls Head Softball Coach Isis Amao reflects, “As I begin my 21st year as part of the St. John’s School softball program, I am filled with immense pride and excitement for the new facility that will elevate our program to new heights. These state-of-the-art fields represent more than just a place to play; they are a testament to the dedication and hard work of every player who has worn the Mavericks softball jersey over the years. I am deeply grateful to Head of School Dan Alig and the Board of Directors for approving this project and for allowing me to have a voice in the design. Their support ensures that our student-athletes have the best environment to develop their skills. I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Athletic Director David Cohn for

his unwavering commitment to our program. This facility is not just for the girls who are currently playing, but also for the generations of Mavericks who will follow, and it stands as a tribute to the legacy of all those who have contributed to our program. I am thrilled for the future of SJS Softball and can't wait to see the impact these new facilities will have on our players, both now and in the years to come.” Despite a wet July, athletic construction continues to progress smoothly on the Taub Campus. Our general contractor, Forney Construction, has completed major utility connections along Buffalo Speedway; stormdetention installation is underway; construction of the tennis courts’ slab and fences is also underway; and we’ve poured foundations for restrooms and softball dugouts. We hope to open both the tennis courts and the softball field officially right after 1 January 2025 — in plenty of time for the spring athletic season. Let’s bring on the spring tennis and softball seasons — Go, Mavs!

AroundCampus

Trustee, Faculty, & Staff Reception MAY 14, 2024

T. C . E V A N S A W A R D

SERVICE AWARDS

Mark Rodriguez

10 YEARS

Greg Swan stablished by the Prefects of the Class of 1963, this award is presented to that member of the St. John’s family who best exemplifies devotion to the School through spirited devotion and continuous support of its activities.

As Mark Rodriguez completes his tenure as Chairman of the Board of Trustees and Greg Swan as Chief Financial Officer, it is fitting to honor them together with this award. Our heartfelt appreciation goes to both Mark and Greg for their steadfast commitment to St. John's.

E. PHILIP CANNON AWARDS Evelyn Cantorna

Salvador Aquino Michelle Chen Ganesa Collins Bailey Duncan Jeri Franke Katie Gonzalez Cullan Hemenway Caroline Hendryx ’03 Jamie Kim Allyson LaBorde Tahra Peterson Richard Still Carla Wall Shatrise Warren

20 YEARS

Kedra Johnson Kate Montague Marty Thompson ’91 o honor the work of Headmaster E. Philip Cannon, each year we recognize people who have contributed greatly to the life of the School — teachers and staff members who serve kids and colleagues with heart and without fanfare. This year, we are excited to pay special tribute to four individuals particularly deserving of our gratitude.

Corrine Duncan Angela Prendes-Pueyo

30 YEARS Nena Garcia

40 YEARS Richie Mercado ’79

AroundCampus

Faculty & Staff Emeriti 2023-2024

GREG SWAN

AKRAM ANOUSHEHI

Excerpts from Head of School Dan Alig’s transcript at the Reception

GREG SWAN he St. John’s community enjoys incredibly strong financial footing. That’s in large, large part because of Greg Swan — his financial acumen, his oversight, his detail-orientation, and his knack for translating accounting and investing nuance to educators and English majors like me. Greg is a proud UT-Austin graduate. He spent 20 years in public accounting, rising through the Ernst & Young ranks to partner. After a stint as the CFO of the Texas Medical Center, he arrived at St. John’s in 2004, when the endowment stood at $50,000,000 and the operating budget at $20,000,000. They’re now approaching $100,000,000 and over $60,000,000, respectively. Dollars and cents aside, Greg has overseen all St. John’s operations, multiple Board committees, and umpteen construction projects during his two decades on Claremont Lane — including this

FRED SWEAD

BILL MCDONALD

magnificent building, Flores Hall. He’s on his fourth head of school now, and I can tell you firsthand how much counsel and diplomatic direction he provides each week. He’s one of the only CFOs I’ve met who always, always starts at “yes.” Like John Allman, Jim Hendrix, and Mark Desjardins before me, I’ve been able to call on him for advice on all things St. John’s and even for personal guidance as I’ve navigated headship and fatherhood. Greg, what an asset you’ve been to St. John’s and to me personally. What a gift you and your 20 years of service have been to this entire community. We’re all immensely grateful for your leadership and your loyalty.

AKRAM ANOUSHEHI aving earned a degree in computer science and then worked as a technologist at Grady Middle School for six years, Akram began her St. John’s tenure in the late 1990s. Her first stop here was in the Lower School, where she was

ROSIE BENIRETTO

everything technology as the School moved from analog to digital. Akram saw the incorporation of desktops, laptops, the network, wireless technologies, projectors, and eventually flat panels in our learning spaces. More importantly, Akram held hands — teachers’, students’, and administrators’ — as they used these tools to amplify learning. Eventually, she became the Assistant Director of Technology, overseeing a large swath of campus, and the past five years, our Director of Technology, overseeing the whole operation, from a vastly upgraded wireless network to accounting systems to cybersecurity. Nobody has been more central to St. John’s own digital revolution; nobody has been more committed to our mission and our people the past generation-plus. And nobody provides more care to colleagues or more candid, wise counsel to fellow administrators. For 25 years, Akram Anoushehi has exemplified dedicated service. Thank you, Akram, for your commitment and tireless work ethic.

FRED SWEAD am an early riser, but not as early as Fred. As I’m beginning my day, I can hear Gate 1 rattle open at 4:45 A.M. on the dot. That’s Fred, without fail. He meets our food-delivery trucks each morning beginning at 4:50 — just as he has his entire time at St. John’s. Understated and bighearted, Fred is literally the first person to arrive on campus each day. And he’s known as the dining hall’s detail guy: He ensures that orders are correct and timely, ensures that deliveries are accurate, and ensures that our cooks have what they need to deliver thousands of meals each week. And he can find anything in our cavernous freezers and refrigerators. Fred is our dining hall’s organization maestro. Colleagues for years have commented on his eagerness to help — regardless of the task or the hour or the inconvenience to him personally. Beyond the school year, he has kept Breakthrough fed each summer and has nourished thousands of kids participating in field trips and after-school activities — including Big Bend for years.

Fred, for 28 years, you have modeled selfless service and dependability. We’re all so, so grateful to you. And I will miss seeing you each morning at oh-dark-thirty. Thank you.

BILL MCDONALD ill arrived on Claremont Lane during the first Reagan Administration, having moved to Houston from his home state of Florida and Eckerd College. For almost 20 years, he was the School’s theater maven — our first Technical Theater Director, a director of countless shows over those years, and a tireless supporter of kids and colleagues. Shortly after we moved from dismal Hoodwink Theater to the wonderful Lowe Theater, Bill moved into a new role — Director of Fine Arts — taking over for the for-

midable Janet Scarcella. Bill broadened from directing stage dynamics to directing departmental dynamics, and perhaps a little drama from time to time. Bill has succeeded in that role for over two decades because he listens caringly and intently. Bill also listens with humor — and shares his trademark laughter. Under his leadership, Fine Arts participation has tripled. We’ve expanded programs and created entirely new ones. Bill has championed the arts fervently for 41 years here. He has likewise championed the underdog, continued to create as an artist in his own right, and celebrated people’s idiosyncrasies. Bill loves theater and the arts, but Bill truly loves people — the quirkier, the better. We’ve all benefited from his stagecraft, his diplomacy, and his wisdom. Bill McDonald has left a profound mark on St. John’s. We’re tremendously grateful to him. Thank you, Bill.

ROSIE BENIRETTO osie began her career here working for a bow-tied headmaster, Thomas Read, in 1977. She’ll retire from St. John’s working for a bow-tied head of school. I’m number six in the line. Rosie outtaught and outlasted one after the other. She’s made each of us a better school leader. And what a legacy she leaves at St. John’s: the legions of students who learned to write compellingly and to love history in her Middle School classroom, the hundreds of parents who relied on her wise counsel, the scores of colleagues whose lives were brighter and whose work was lightened because of her morale-boosting spirit and famous luncheon spreads, and the dozens of administrators who knew they’d get straight-shooting advice from her and trusted her wealth of SJS wisdom. Rosie has championed our St. John’s Honor Code, our Chapel program, our technology integration, our new-teacher orientation, our students’ civic understanding and engagement, and our faculty spirit.

For five decades, Rosie Beniretto has been St. John’s Caretaker in Chief. We will miss her famous pasta sauce and her insistence on keeping the Middle School faculty lounge clean, organized, and sparkling. And we will sorely miss Rosie’s commitment to kids, her voracious curiosity about history and its impact today, and her abiding love for all things St. John’s. Thank you, Rosie, for committing your life to teaching and to this learning community. Your impact on St. John’s — on our people — will be felt five decades hence.

STEVE GLEAVES teve has moved to the Dallas area and is not able to join us tonight. He asked me to share his regrets and his deep appreciation for the School — especially for his Athletics colleagues. Steve retired last summer — intentionally after this ceremony because he didn’t want any fanfare — having completed 32 years of service. We’ve missed him this entire school year, and we miss him this evening. Huge thanks to him and his family for over three decades of contribution and care.

FLORENCE HARRIS lorence could not join us this evening, either. She retired from St. John’s Middle School in September. With steadfast belief in the twin powers of conversation and connection, Florence calmed people — she took the time to ask about their days and to tell them to slow down. She nurtured others—child and adult alike—and championed justice both here at St. John’s and in our wider community. Family after family and adolescent after adolescent credit her for their sense of belonging here — they credit Florence for knowing them, loving them, and keeping them ballasted through the ups and downs of the teenage years. We are so grateful to her for 42 years of commitment to St. John’s.

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New Trustees MEET THE NEWLY ELECTED MEMBERS TO THE ST. JOHN’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES

aura Arnold is the founder and co-chair of Arnold Ventures, LLC. Arnold Ventures seeks to tackle some of the most pressing problems in the United States by applying evidence-based solutions to improve outcomes in public systems, including health care, education, criminal justice, and public finance. Before founding Arnold Ventures, Laura served as a corporate lawyer and executive in the energy industry. A native of Puerto Rico, she earned her J.D. from Yale Law School, M.Phil. in European Studies from the University of Cambridge, and B.A. from Harvard College. Laura has been a leading voice in criminal justice reform, advocating for solutions to fix a system that she has described as deeply broken, inefficient and unjust. She is a founding partner of the REFORM Alliance, a national criminal justice advocacy organization dedicated to reducing the number of individuals needlessly ensnared in a punitive system of mass incarceration, the revolving door of probation and parole, and the penalizing nature of fees and fines. She also serves on the Leadership Advisory Council for the Tsai Leadership Program at Yale Law School and on the advisory board at Stanford PACS, a research center that seeks to explore and share ideas that drive social change. Laura and her husband, John, were one of the original signatories of the Giving Pledge, a commitment to donate the majority of their income to philanthropic causes during their lifetimes. Laura and her husband have three children attending St. John’s - SOFIA ’26, DANIELA ’28, and JOAQUIN ’29.

LAURA ARNOLD

ince 2005, Mr. Jean-Pierre Baizan has served as President/CEO of Sempre Avant LLC, a privately held firm with two major business entities, SolvChem, Inc. (SC), a chemical blending, packaging, and distribution company for leading global companies and brands, and Sempre Avant Interests, LLC (SAI), a real estate and private entity investment company. Prior to assuming the role of President of Sempre Avant, Jean-Pierre was responsible for SC’s Consumer Products Division as its Executive Vice President. Starting in 2000, he expanded the Consumer Products Division into BBQ charcoal and wood products. SAI has made several major investments, including Andino Chemical, a vertically integrated chemical shipping vessel, port terminal, trading, and distribution company serving Latin American markets. Jean-Pierre has previously served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Chemical Distributors and the St. John’s Alumni Board. Since 2012, he has been a member of Young Presidents Organization (YPO), the world’s largest chief executive leadership organization, and has held several board positions, including President of YPO’s Texas Gulf Coast Chapter in 2017-18. Currently, Jean-Pierre serves as a board member of Rice University’s School of Humanities, Hubbard Hall (a 6th generation specialty chemical company), and Andino Chemical. He has a B.A. in History from Rice University and is fluent in Spanish, French, and Italian. Jean-Pierre and his wife reside in Houston, with their three children: CESC ’25, VALENTINA ’27, and AXELLE ’31.

JEAN-PIERRE BAIZAN ’86

lan R. Christensen is the President and Head of Investment Risk at Fayez Sarofim & Co. Mr. Christensen joined the firm in 2005. He is a member of Fayez Sarofim & Co.’s Executive and Investment Committees and is also on the Board of Sarofim Trust Company. Mr. Christensen is a co-manager of the mutual funds that Fayez Sarofim & Co. manages for BNY Mellon. He is also a portfolio manager for a variety of institutional and high-net-worth clients. Over the years, areas of research responsibility have included companies in the technology and industrials sectors. Mr. Christensen received an M.B.A. with Distinction from Cornell University in 2005, where he was a Park Fellow, and a B.A. in Economics and History from Washington & Lee University in 1995, where he graduated cum laude. Prior to joining Fayez Sarofim & Co., he was employed with Alvarez & Marsal as a Director and Accenture as a Senior Manager in Capital Markets. Mr. Christensen currently serves as a Director of Sarofim Irish Collective Asset Management Vehicle (ICAV). He is a graduate of the Center for Houston’s Future Leadership Forum, and is a member of YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization). He previously served on the boards of Annunciation Orthodox School, Palmer Memorial Endowment Fund, and the Tompkins County Community Foundation. Alan and his wife, MARINA ’91, have three children - KATINA ’21, ALEXA ’23, and ANDREW ’26.

ALAN CHRISTENSEN

olbrook Dorn currently serves as CEO of Crescent Mineral Partners LP (CMP) and as Managing Partner of Strata Royalty Partners LP (SRP). Prior to CMP and SRP, Holbrook was Senior Vice President of Land and Business Development at Black Stone Minerals Company, LP. Previously Holbrook worked at Touradji Capital, Kinko’s Inc., and Goldman Sachs & Co in investment banking. Holbrook currently serves on the Board of Crescent Mineral Partners LP, Highland Resources Inc., and the Bayou Club of Houston. Holbrook holds an M.B.A. from Columbia University and a B.B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin. Holbrook and his wife, Kate, have three children - JOSEPHINE ’33, MILES ’35, and Brook.

HOLBROOK DORN ing Zhou is the Deputy Dean of Academic Affairs and Mary Gibbs Jones Chair Professor of Management at Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her B.S. from Peking University. She has built a systematic research program addressing central questions about leadership and Innovation. She is on the top 2% most influential scholars in business/management list, according to a Stanford University study. She has been inducted Fellow of the Academy of Management, the American Psychological Association, the Association for Psychological Sciences, and the Society for Industrial-Organizational Psychology. She is a Fellow at the University of Cambridge, UK. She has served as a volunteer in numerous community service activities in addition to her work on boards of companies and not-for-profits. Her son, RUSSELL LI, attended SJS from K to 12, graduating in 2022.

JING ZHOU D E PA RT I N G T R U ST E ES : FRANK HOGAN ’93 ROSA KIM HO MARK RODRIGUEZ MARIA ZERR

On behalf of the entire St. John’s community, we extend our thanks to the Trustees who completed their Board term this year. We are grateful for their unwavering support, counsel, and service to the School.

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William McKee, HALLIE CRAWFORD McKEE ’08, VIRGINIA CAROLYN ’24, BRUCE CRAWFORD ’74, GRACEY ’26, LAURA ROWE ’83

CHAPMAN AWARD

ach school year we look for the best occasion to present the Paul D. Chapman ’71 Distinguished Service Award. This award is presented by the Head of School to an alum who has exhibited exceptional dedication to our school community and contributed mightily to its betterment. This past year, the award was presented to BRUCE CRAWFORD ’74 at a most fitting occasion – the Alumni Awards Luncheon celebrating his class and their 50th reunion.

Since his graduation from St. John’s, Bruce has been a dedicated alumnus, parent, Alumni Board Member, Trustee, and Advancement and Quadrangle Club committee member. Bruce first joined the Board of Trustees in 1994 and served as a Trustee for eight years. He served on the Finance and Facilities Committees before chairing the Advancement Committee until 2002. Since then, he has served on multiple capital planning committees, lent his time to many a St. John’s phonathon, and remains an active and enduring — and endearing — Class Agent and Class Rep for the Class of 1974.

Bruce and wife LAURA ROWE ’83 chaired the St. John’s Fund in 2018-2019, raising more than $4.8 million. The fund exceeded its goal by more than $300,000 that year. The Advancement Team often says Bruce is so involved that he needs his own office on campus. His love for this school and the depth of his relationships to those in this community are what make his fundraising appeals so genuine, so passionate. It was Bruce’s idea to form a committee of former Trustees to solicit for the St. John’s Fund. Despite not yet having a grandchild at St. John’s, he formed a committee of grandparent solicitors as well. A self-proclaimed “gift getter,” if Bruce hasn’t asked you to make a gift to St. John’s, he just hasn’t met you yet. These days you can catch Bruce heading to family weekend at University of Virginia to visit recent SJS grad VIRGINIA CAROLYN ’24, or on the sidelines of a field hockey game cheering for his youngest daughter, GRACEY ’26. Always one for a party, Bruce and Laura recently hosted the 50th milestone celebration for the Class of ’74 visiting with many classmates from near and far. To know Bruce is to love him. To know of Bruce’s longstanding devotion to St. John’s School is to honor him. In the spirit of great appreciation for his unwavering loyalty, dedication, and efforts on behalf of St. John’s School, we congratulate Bruce on the Paul D. Chapman ’71 Distinguished Service Award, named for his dear friend.

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2 24 Recap REUNION WEEKEND S T. J O H N ’ S S C H O O L

he 2024 Reunion Weekend was kicked off on a beautiful spring evening with the Lifelong Learning Panel and followed by the annual Spring Fling. Made possible by the Stuart Kensinger ’81 Endowment for Peacebuilding and Leadership,

DR. EMILY WANG ’93, MacArthur Fellow and SJS Distinguished

Alumna, led a captivating discussion alongside SJS parent Laura Arnold, the Founder and Co-Chair of Arnold Ventures, LLC, and was moderated by recent graduate ARIANNA DOSS ’23 and then current LIFELONG LEARNING PANEL

student SHREYES BALACHANDRAN ’24. The focus of the conversation

From the Stuart Kensinger ’81 Endowment for Peacebuilding and Leadership

was based upon the two women’s joint interest in improving the criminal justice system. After the panel, Spring Fling took place on the Great Lawn with light bites and cocktails, joining together the St. John’s alumni community. — Continued on next page

ARIANNA DOSS ’23, DR. EMILY WANG ’93, SHREYES BALACHANDRAN ’24, REBECCA LINN HUGHES ’06, Laura Arnold

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ew this year, the Alumni Awards ceremony was combined with the traditional Mid-Century Luncheon with the clear intention of welcoming all alumni to gather together. This year’s luncheon honored this year’s Alumni Award recipients and celebrated the Class of 1974’s 50th reunion.

Afterwards, all guests were invited to Lowe Theater to the “Alumni & Faculty Celebration of Song.” An idea initially tossed around by ROBYN McCORD O’BRIEN ’89 and beloved former SJS Director of Fine Arts Janet Scarcella, over 100 alumni — ranging from the Class of ’61 to the Class of ’19 — gathered together on stage to perform. Participants included alumni who had been a part of SJS Fine Arts in many ways — from St. John’s Singers to Kantorei, to any singing group or theatrical production. Alumni from across the US, as well as a couple of international travelers, came together in celebration of music along with both former and current SJS Fine Arts faculty.

LE MELCHER ’78, ALICIA DEJOHN KOWALSKI ’86, Patrick Kowalski, Kevin Trautner, BARBARA WELLS TRAUTNER ’87

Audra Parrish, Janet Scarcella

Donna Palmer,

MOLLY CAMPBELL VOORHEES ’94

As summarized by O’Brien, “The music selected by our directors, Janet Scarcella, Scott Bonasso, Angela Brill, BRAD NAYLOR ’99, and LAUREN PASTOREK ’96 reflected the scope and talent of the choral department, reminiscent of years gone by, but sung with a love and joy that could only be found in almost 100 of us coming together to do something that had never been done (and for many, something that had not been done in a very long time!).”

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Laura Pipkin, CAMPBELL EIFLER ’01,

MICHAEL PIPKIN ’01

JODY KAMRATH OLSEN ’84, AYLIN MAGGART FLANAGAN ’89, MIRUNI SOOSAIPILLAI ’84

ROULA ZOGHBI SMITH ’03, LAUREN KOEHLER HAVEL ’03, LESLIE FARISH CAMMUSO ’01, TEAL TIGNER REAMER ’01, ALI FARISH GUILL ’01

Celebration of Song participants

FELLOWSHIP GRANTS The St. John’s Endowment is home to a multitude of funds that provide for the School and our community in perpetuity. These three fellowship opportunities featured here provide faculty and students opportunities for enrichment beyond our storied cloisters.

PAUL CHAPMAN ’71 FELLOWSHIP IN SERVICE LEARNING

s a devoted volunteer, lifelong learner, and servant-leader, PAUL CHAPMAN ’71 exemplified servicelearning. He used his curiosity, positivity, and passion to better the St. John’s community. Established in 2019, the Paul Chapman ’71 Fellowship in Service Learning provides grants to students to conduct self-directed domestic projects that seek to identify, research, and help resolve a relevant problem in the community. Projects may cover a variety of issues, including but not limited to: education, the environment, health care and aging, urban planning, arts in the community, human rights, peace and security, and public policy.

TURK ADROGUÉ EL-HAKAM FELLOWSHIP IN SCIENCE

or decades, Erol Turk’s talents in teaching and his devotion to his colleagues in the science department were used to make teaching and learning physics a special experience at St. John’s. Mr. Turk inspired students, faculty, and community members with his positivity in the face of adversity. Established in 2019, the Turk Adrogué El-Hakam Fellowship in Science awards students grants to conduct domestic summer research and/or participate in a domestic summer experience or internship that seeks to research, learn about, and/or apply science. It is an opportunity to explore science further in either academics or real world applications. Projects, experiences, or internships may cover a variety of science-related topics, including (but not limited to): physics, biology, chemistry, medical sciences, the environment, and other STEM-related fields.

JAMAIL GRANTS

hanks to the generosity of the Robert and Louise Jamail family, an endowed fund was established to finance significant summer enrichment opportunities for teachers. These grants are intended to enable faculty to explore topics both within and outside their area of teaching. By allowing teachers to pursue significant enrichment opportunities, these grants recognize and support the continuing, interdisciplinary education of faculty within a community of learners. During the school year, faculty members submit a proposal for consideration of an enrichment opportunity for the coming summer break.

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PATRICK TSANG ’26

y grandpa always loved to watch me perform. From my first show in Charlie Brown, he was my biggest supporter and could never get enough of my dancing. When his dementia progressed, he still remembered my rhythmical tap dancing, and I wish I could have taught him to tap despite his decreased mobility.

After he passed away, I knew I wanted to share my passion for tap with the elderly but would have to reduce the physicality and large movements of the art form. So, I thought of seated tap dance, in which the participants would sit in a chair to follow the tapping. Tap dancing is most often taught through a technique called retention and recall: a small sequence is first introduced, and the participants repeat the sequence on their own, aiming to match the rhythm and appearance of the movements. This teaching method has made tap dancing highly recommended for its cognitive benefits. I believe employing this same method using seated tap can help to better the memory retention in senior participants and improve their mobility, while also allowing them to exercise and enjoy a fun dance combo to nostalgic music. So, I developed a five-combo curriculum, containing movements that engaged each muscle in the leg: paradiddles to focus on the tibialis anterior, toe heels to target the calves, and shuffles to work the quads. Additionally, in each combo I inserted different arm movements or claps to also work the upper body. Through the Paul Chapman ’71 Fellowship in Service Learning, I taught ten sessions between two senior living communities: The Gardens of Bellaire and Belmont Village Senior Living West University (a retirement community Paul Chapman co-founded). I used the fellowship to purchase plywood and EVA interlocking foam, and I used my laser cutter to construct two by two boards the residents could tap on. I also purchased slip-on tap shoes for the participants to fully experience tap dancing.

“The highlight of the whole program was watching participants that were initially hesitant and did not participate in the first session join in the later sessions.”

During our sessions, the residents would form a tap circle and I would take a spot within the circle so everyone could see me. Before each session, I went around our circle and had each resident introduce themselves. I felt it was a great exercise for me to interact one-on-one with each senior. I was impressed how quickly they picked up the choreography, and I was even happier to watch the residents in wheelchairs participate, since the movements were small enough that they could still engage their legs. Many of the participants especially enjoyed the music, and even those uninterested in the tapping itself felt inclined to bounce back and forth to the rhythm. After demonstrating each move, I announced the name of the movement and had all the participants repeat it back to me. Then in the next session, I might ask the group to recall the name of the movement. Similar to our opening introductions, I felt that this exercise of regular repetition would also help make the name of the movement stick. Additionally, I would end the session with a short performance of one the combos I was working on. The participants were always amazed by the faster, more intricate movements. — Continued on next page

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Story continued —

It was such a joy witnessing the excitement of each resident after mastering a specific move. The highlight of the whole program was watching participants that were initially hesitant and did not participate in the first session join in the later sessions. I loved returning each weekend to see new participants join and old participants return with even more enthusiasm. To end the program, I created “Excellence in Tap Dance” Certificates and handed them to every participant. I will never forget how proud each resident was after receiving their certificate. Since this summer, I have uploaded my curriculum onto a website for other tap dancers to create their own seated tap chapters. Using my connections with tap dancers from other schools and other states, I intend to expand the program beyond Houston and put this uploaded curriculum into action. First, in the fall, we will implement the program in retirement communities in Colorado and Louisiana, continuing to fine-tune the combos and working towards a national expansion. SJS tap club officers GENEVIEVE LARSEN ’25 and ELISE DIPAOLO ’25 assisted in teaching a few sessions during this summer. Genevieve did a great job interacting with the participants, bringing positivity and excitement to each session. Elise performed a rhythmically complex combo, stunning the seniors. After witnessing the joy that this service brought to our two officers, I plan to include more SJS Tap Dance Club members to volunteer on designated Saturdays and to help counteract the cognitive decline among the aging. Leading these seated tap sessions has allowed me to expand my teaching skills to new communities, to better understand the abilities and limitations of people struggling with dementia, and to bring a smile to these retirement communities.

“I loved returning each weekend to see new participants join and old participants return with even more enthusiasm.”

AILA JIANG ’26

have always spent my summers attending various camps and enrichment classes without worrying about accessibility. However, growing up with a sibling with an intellectual disability, I became aware of the limited diverse and inclusive opportunities available to the special needs community. Since 2021, I have served at a local special needs caring center for adults in which I saw the positive impact of youth volunteers on the participants’ learning and happiness. Yet, I also noticed that when youth took initiative for lessons, there was a lack of structure and consideration for different ability levels. With the support of the Chapman Fellowship, I used my experience to both design and implement a structured, play-and-learn curriculum that honed life skills and the physical, emotional development for individuals with special needs. Over a course of eight weeks, I worked with four different age groups and five organizations in the Greater-Houston area. In late May, I collaborated with specialed professionals to design youth-led activities covering music, health, finance, arts, sports, and games. We developed comprehensive lesson plans that practiced cognitive abilities, fine/gross motor, communication, and life skills. Throughout the curriculum

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“Through my service, I learned to recognize the unique personalities of every person I met, especially for a group that is often generalized and labeled without consideration for their individuality.”

implementation, we conducted weekly training sessions, ultimately leading a team of at least 50 youth volunteers. At each training, we continually adjusted the curriculum based on volunteer feedback and observations to ensure inclusivity for all abilities. First, I taught bucket drumming lessons 1-2 times a week at two locations of Gigi’s Playhouse, a Down Syndrome achievement center serving three age groups. Bucket drums are accessible instruments for participants to practice motor skills, following directions, and impulse control. Every lesson, we reviewed the bucket sounds, played rhythm games, and drummed patterns to songs. At first, the participants struggled with following instructions, but after reinforcement, they could follow along quicker, eventually leading their own sequences, counting each other off, and memorizing patterns and song cues. I witnessed their gradual gain in confidence and passion throughout the weeks–now, they even mutually teach and encourage each other with bright smiles on their faces. Because of this success, I also taught the class for older adults at the Easter Seals day program, ultimately impacting 150 people. The funding allowed me to give 10 sets of bucket drums and sticks to each location so they can continue their programs.

The next environment where I introduced the revised activities was SMILE, a fullday program for adults with special needs that met three times a week. Each lesson followed a consistent format, integrating various activities and skills under a unified theme. For example, a volunteer shared their trip to London, and the adults then practiced conversational skills by discussing their favorite vacations. Subsequently, they practiced life skills by planning their own travel itineraries and packing lists. In the final part of class, the adults built a 3D puzzle of London, working on their fine motor skills. We also conducted two mini market simulations at SMILE, where the adults used "money" earned from completing chores to buy goods, practicing budgeting and bargaining. Through SMILE, I impacted over 230 adults. Lastly, using the funding, I organized three playdates called “My Play Club” at an inclusive park facility in Pearland to encourage play for children of all abilities. For example, we had a petting zoo in June, an Independence Day theme in July, and a mini olympics game in August. The funding provided for bucket drumming, face-painting, coloring, prizes, and games–children could also request a volunteer to be their “buddy” for the day. I impacted over 150 children at “My Play Club,” and I saw the joy from both the children and families at these large events.

The Paul Chapman ’71 Fellowship in Service Learning provided me the resources and inspiration to impact the lives of 530 individuals. I learned how to plan and execute a long-term, multifaceted passion project, outreach to local organizations, mentor a large group of youth volunteers, and evaluate feedback to continually improve my deliverable. Through my service, I learned to recognize the unique personalities of every person I met, especially for a group that is often generalized and labeled without consideration for their individuality. Lastly, this project also reinforced the idea that service is not a one-way relationship, but rather mutually beneficial. Not only did I see the progress and improvement of those we served, but also the fulfillment in both myself and the volunteers. I am very grateful for this opportunity because the fellowship allowed me to provide a more accessible, inclusive, and fun summer for all. I plan to develop a final version of this youth-led, play-and-learn activity manual through an independent study project. In order to maintain sustainability in these locations during the school year, I am currently training closeby youth organizations to continue the programs I started.

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JOHN EIKENBURG ’26 & LUIZ COSTA COIMBRA ’26

ith the Turk-Adrogué El-Hakam Fellowship in Science, we set out to explore whether depth impacted microplastic content in a freshwater lake in hopes of being better able to determine the ecosystems at risk of the growing plastic issue. To do so, we designed an RC boat capable of going out to a deep part of the lake and lowering a collection mechanism to gather water samples. Our design process took many different paths, starting with a submarine. We quickly realized a submarine was a horrible idea because the infrared waves from the RCs wouldn’t travel the distances needed. We did some research into boat designs, specifically boat hull designs, and came to our second design. This design had a boat as the focus, but with a niskin bottle as our collection mechanism. A niskin bottle is a very complicated contraption for water collection that requires many different parts and ropes working in tandem to collect water. The boat would be similar to a raft with two hulls providing buoyancy and the electronics/data collection mechanism being placed in between. We designed and 3D printed the hulls, then coated them in epoxy-resin for waterproofing. The only issue was the niskin bottle, which seemed like a really good idea but was over-complicated at best with many different components relying on one-another. If one part failed, the entire system would fail. Our solution came from a friend of ours, Mr. Tsang, who suggested using a syringe to collect the data instead of a complicated system. We decided to use gravity to help us accomplish this, by adding weights to the syringe and holding onto the plunger, the weight of the syringe would keep it going down, while the plunger was held by a string, causing water to be collected.

“We decided to use gravity to help us accomplish this, by adding weights to the syringe and holding onto the plunger, the weight of the syringe would keep it going down, while the plunger was held by a string, causing water to be collected.”

Of course, through testing, different components had to be changed. After attaching all of the electronics to the boat and doing a float test, the hulls provided too little buoyancy to keep the boat floating. To solve this problem, we cut up pool noodles and attached them to the outside of the boat, allowing it to float well. Our collection tests went perfectly, as we were able to collect water from a pool using our arms to simulate motors. Unfortunately, we encountered several problems when working with the electronics. Our code worked well, and the RC components were responsive, but we had problems with our current. Our motors would respond to controller input, spinning extremely well for 1-2 seconds, but then would decelerate to a stop without any input to do so. We found that there was a drop in our power supply frequency, causing the motors to slow. We researched countless different motors and motordrivers to try and find some that worked, and even purchased and tested four new, different batteries and two new, different motor drivers; we used them individually and in parallel circuits to try and achieve a result but nothing seemed to work. Because we were running out of time and we had already tested nine individual batteries and three individual motor drivers in over 20 different systems, we decided to gather the data manually. After using the same system we had originally planned, we shipped out the data to a microplastic lab so that we could receive the microplastic content at each of our three depths: 5, 25, and 50 feet. Unfortunately, we have not received any results as of yet. We plan to continue this project through the school year, as fixing the electronics should become easier with some guidance and we are still waiting on our results.

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Denver Harbor Multi-Service Center in Baker-Ripley’s Senior Health & Wellness facility.

BEFORE

AFTER JACK VU ’25

ith the Turk-Adrogué El-Hakam Fellowship in Science, and donations from the St. John’s Technology department and various community members, I constructed two computer labs in Houston’s East End and ran consistent programming in both labs. Each site uses high-quality personal computers with standard computer software. The first computer lab is located at Denver Harbor Multi-Service Center in Baker-Ripley’s Senior Health & Wellness facility. I, along with the leaders at Baker-Ripley, decided on this location due to the need for digital literacy among their clients. In this facility, I provided ten computers, a printer, a projector, and an internet hotspot so that these seniors could have computer access and education. Initially a storage closet without any possibility of public use, this computer lab now provides 30 hours per week of public computer access. On the left above is a picture of the space before the transformation, and on the right is a picture after.

To build the curriculum for computer literacy classes in this facility, I researched the background of our target students. This research involved on-site analysis and online investigation. Here were the main takeaways from this research: • Students would be primarily Spanish-speaking (just three of 145 regular visitors speak English) • Students would be almost exclusively immigrants of Mexican origin • Students would lack formal education (6% of Denver Harbor residents have a bachelor degree or higher) • Almost all students would have a cell phone with cell service

With these takeaways in mind, I decided to teach only the most practical subjects that provide immediate value to the lives of my students. I developed a curriculum that features a series of one-off classes to provide a new tool each week to the students. Some of the teachings include Google Maps, Google Calendar, simple web surfing, and creating birthday cards with Canva. On top of the two hours per week that I teach this curriculum, the computer lab is open 30 hours per week for the visitors of the senior center to have computer, internet, and printing access.

— Continued on next page

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I also spend an hour after each class managing the computer lab so that seniors can come in and simply ask questions and learn new skills. One such senior came in and asked about how to design 3D roofing models for his business, so I showed him a CAD website where he could do this. The project is ongoing, and seniors show up each and every week excited to learn more. I’m looking forward to continuing to make an impact and work with these seniors. The second computer lab is located at the Mission Milby Community Center in the East End’s Pecan Park neighborhood. During the summer, the site hosts the Mission Milby Summer Day Camp in partnership with the YMCA of Greater Houston. I brought coding classes to this summer camp to give these children (around 60-80 per week) an opportunity to have fun with computer programming. Though an organization called Technology for All previously provided Mission Milby with a computer lab, the computer lab featured an aging set of desktop computers incapable of running simple Python programs. The St. John’s Technology department donated 20 computers to the program to alleviate this issue, which was a huge boon for us.

“I thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity, and I learned a little bit more about the world from each and every kid that walked into the lab.”

To better organize the classes, I recruited and led a team of nine volunteers to delegate tasks and provide some more individual teaching to kids. Together, we installed a linux virtual machine on all 20 computers and the coding environment VSCode. I hosted a training session to inform these volunteers on their expectations as teachers for these students and to walk them through the coding curriculum. Though not every volunteer could come every week, each session had 4-5 total teachers to ensure that students could receive individual help when necessary. The volunteers worked diligently from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm, with an hour-long lunch break for us to rest, eat, and discuss possible adjustments for the remaining classes.

Along with my team, I led the development of a customized curriculum with a series of lessons adaptable to the different age groups. These lessons aim to instill coding skills through the creation of concrete projects without each class relying on attendance of prior classes. For example, one project was the “Bank Vault Project.” This project involved initializing variables for items stored in a bank vault that each student uniquely chose. The student would then come up with a dollar amount for that item and run a calculation at the very end to tally up the total value of the bank vault. The students were ages 5 to 13 and almost exclusively lived in the surrounding Pecan Park neighborhood. In our five weeks of classes, every single student we taught was brand new to coding. As such, we made an effort to engage the students deeply in the material and strongly encouraged the students to continue to engage in the subject. At the end of the final class, we spent a significant amount of time talking about the career possibilities in coding and the benefits of continuing education. On top of simply giving students a mental exercise for them to enjoy, I hope to have instilled in them a love for programming that can benefit them long-term as it has for me. I thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity, and I learned a little bit more about the world from each and every kid that walked into the lab. I am in discussions with Mission Milby about future uses of the computer lab, including continuing coding instruction throughout the school year with their afterschool programs. Altogether, the fellowship allowed us to reach around 90 active students per week, while providing internet, computer, and printing access to around 145 seniors per day at Denver Harbor.

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“The Jamail Grant enabled me to explore the fascinating history of the Nile and Egypt. This once-in-alifetime journey opened my journal, filling its pages with newfound knowledge. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity.”

HANNE RODRIGUEZ Lower School Class Five Language Arts/Social Studies

peered through the window as the aircraft approached Cairo. Quickly, I grabbed my phone to capture the scene from above. Fortunately, I had chosen the side of the plane with the best view. To my surprise, we were not merely passing by these impressive historic monuments but encircling them. Haze framed the horizon. I snapped numerous photos, knowing one would be my prized shot. What a charming welcome to a land rich with history. The Pyramids of Giza greeted me with their timeless grandeur. My purpose in Egypt was to explore the ruins and artifacts that narrate its existence. The Nile River fostered innovation among Egyptians for thousands of years. My class studies various civilizations, focusing on the essential characteristics required for a society to be considered a civilization. Culture, farming, community, and technology were all part of their stability. Receiving the Jamail Grant allowed me to

delve deeply into this extensive history, going beyond my textbook knowledge.

carried harvest bundles beside verdant fields and scattered date palm trees.

Modern-day Cairo is a vibrant city, with the Nile as its centerpiece, offering activities day and night in this bustling metropolis. A cacophony of car horns plays as pedestrians weave through traffic, navigating streets with no designated lanes. To begin my journey, I ventured to the Egyptian Museum, where artifacts offered countless insights into ancient Egyptian daily life, including mummies! My ultimate reward was seeing the original Narmer Palette, symbolizing the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt during the Early Dynastic Period. I was captivated by its narrative — the beginning of a united Egypt!

Along the way, I stopped in Memphis, once Egypt’s capital during the Old Kingdom. There, an open-air museum displays multiple ancient ruins. The Ramses II colossus, a nearly 34-foot limestone sculpture lying peacefully on the ground with a surrounding deck, immediately captured my attention. Some consider Ramesses the Great one of Egypt’s most influential pharaohs, evident in the colossus’s size.

Later, I drove past charming villages along the Nile, offering glimpses into the traditional way of life. The Nile’s annual floods, now controlled by dams, continue to sustain farmers. Carts pulled by donkeys

As I drove away from the site, I was struck by the incredible contrast where the lush green terrain met the arid desert landscape. Surrounded suddenly by the sandy hills of the Sahara Desert, I felt transported to ancient Egypt. I visited Saqqara’s historic burial grounds, marveling at Imhotep’s Colonnade and Djoser’s Step Pyramid, the world’s oldest pyramid. Camels dotted the distant landscape. — Continued on next page

AroundCampus

Story continued —

Standing before the Pyramids of Giza left me speechless! How were these massive limestone blocks constructed and moved? What did they originally look like? After collecting myself, I enjoyed Giza’s attractions: navigating Khufu’s pyramid tunnels and riding camels amid swirling Sahara sands. My day ended at the Great Sphinx, Earth’s largest monolithic statue. Eventually, a seven-day Nile River cruise unfolded with scenic views of the riverbank’s flora, deepening my appreciation of ’The Gifts of the Nile.’ Beyond the lush banks, the distant Theban Hills, limestone formations holding archaeological mysteries, beckoned. I explored Luxor, Edfu, Aswan, and Qena along the Nile, visiting historic temples and tombs such as the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Karnak Temple, and the UNESCO-listed Abu Simbel. The development of written language was evident, with hieroglyphs adorning walls and revealing insights into ancient Egyptian daily life. At a papyrus factory,

I learned the technique early Egyptians used to create paper from reeds along the Nile to document narratives and essential records. Additionally, I took a Felucca ride to a Nubian village, where communities live simple yet rich lives, thriving in their strong sense of community spirit. The Nubians, an ancient ethnic group, have inhabited regions along the Nile for thousands of years. This experience was both delightful and overwhelming. I am forever enriched as a citizen of this planet, so I can’t help but be enriched as an educator. While teaching about Egypt, I was well-versed in its basic textbook facts. However, since my return, I’ve spent many hours researching its complexities—from the pre-pharaonic archaic and intermediate periods to the Three Kingdoms. The interwoven dynasties across millennia have given me a more comprehensive grasp of this vast timeline. Each discovery fuels my interest, compelling me to seek more profound insights.

I aim to inspire my students with my adventure through pamphlets, artifacts, photos, slideshows, postcards, and firsthand experiences. Covering over 5,000 years of this civilization poses challenges. The deeper my understanding, the better I can integrate engaging facts within our limited class time. In addition to teaching history, I also teach writing. My recent research is sharpening both my research skills and writing proficiency. Considering our next research unit, ancient Egypt offers significant potential. Fifth graders resonate with themes like hieroglyphs, the afterlife, mummification, intriguing pharaohs, and advanced technology. Analyzing the Nile, the world’s longest river, and its role in sustaining Egypt’s past and present captivates students and fosters curiosity. My trip will shape lessons, leaving a lasting educational impact. The Jamail Grant enabled me to explore the fascinating history of the Nile and Egypt. This once-in-a-lifetime journey opened my journal, filling its pages with newfound knowledge. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity.

AroundCampus MARGARITA SERRANO Upper School Spanish

“This trip was an invaluable experience, providing a deep understanding of why Peru is hailed as ‘South America’s Leading Cultural Destination.’ Such an experience must be lived firsthand to fully appreciate its significance.”

eru has consistently been a significant presence in my Spanish classes. The textbooks utilized are replete with articles concerning Peruvian history, culture, and gastronomy. In Spanish II, we explored the intricacies of Peruvian culture through various readings and discussions. In the AP Spanish Language and Culture course, we examined an article highlighting the country’s renowned gastronomy and global recognition. Peru has received multiple prestigious accolades this year, including “South America’s Leading Cultural Destination 2024.” These honors underscore Peru’s significant contributions to global cultural and culinary landscapes. Additionally, I am scheduled to begin a new course on Art and History in Spain and Latin America during the upcoming fall semester. Therefore, I deemed it an opportune moment to visit this remarkable land of the Incas to enhance my knowledge about South American culture, history, and art and impart this understanding to my students. I extend my gratitude to the St. John’s community, which, through the Jamail Grant, has enabled me to fulfill a dream and engage in an unforgettable, intercultural, and unique experience that has profoundly enriched my knowledge and spirit. My journey commenced with a visit to the ruins of the Pachacamac Temple, situated a short distance from Lima. Constructed by various leaders over numerous centuries between 200 and 1450 AD, this religious site, composed entirely of clay, houses the grand pyramids of the sun and the moon. This comprehensive tour provided me with a profound understanding of the culture, history, and architecture of both the Inca and pre-Inca civilizations. The Pachacamac Temple, revered as a major pilgrimage — Continued on next page

AroundCampus

Story continued —

site, was a focal point for religious and ceremonial activities. Walking amidst the temple ruins, I marveled at the sophistication of these ancient cultures, noting the intricate construction techniques and the religious significance imbued in the site. These observations afforded me a greater appreciation for the spiritual and cultural practices that shaped the Andean civilizations.

heads and faces with silk shawls, leaving only one eye visible. From these balconies, they would observe gentlemen strolling the streets, and if someone piqued their interest, they would drop a handkerchief to initiate a potential courtship. These stories, among others learned during my tour, significantly enriched my historical knowledge and will be valuable additions to my classes.

Another highlight of my trip was Downtown Lima, where I gained insight into why the city is referred to as the City of Kings. The Historic Center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its well-preserved architecture and historical landmarks. I visited notable sites such as the Plaza de Armas, a central square that has been the heart of Lima since its founding in 1535, the Cathedral of Lima, which houses the remains of Francisco Pizarro, and the Monastery of San Francisco, famous for its baroque architecture and extensive catacombs. This experience was rich with culture, history, and indelible memories. During my visits, I was particularly captivated by the historic balconies of Lima. These balconies, constructed during both the viceregal era and the Republic, predominantly in the historic center of Lima (districts of Lima and Rímac), constitute an integral part of the architectural heritage of Peru’s capital. These elaborately carved wooden structures provided privacy and ventilation, reflecting a blend of Moorish and Spanish architectural influences. Alongside other architectural monuments, the balconies were a key factor in UNESCO’s designation of Lima’s old town as a World Heritage Site. Their origin traces back to the mashrabiya of Moorish architecture, which was introduced to southern Spain during the Moorish occupation and subsequently brought to the Americas by the Spanish. During the Republic, women in Lima, known as the Tapadas, would cover their

The richness of Lima’s center cannot be fully appreciated in a single visit. The abundance of history and culture is staggering. Visiting museums and unassuming bookstores afforded me the opportunity to acquire teaching materials, which are invaluable to me. These small,

“The knowledge and experiences I have gained will undoubtedly enrich my teaching and offer my students a more profound connection to the vibrant culture and history of Peru.”

rustic bookstores, located on bustling side streets, yielded books on art and culture that I intend to incorporate into my new class. Each corner, street, and building is imbued with history, offering insights that cannot be captured through books, photographs, or videos. The Museo Larco, for instance, provided an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art, including pottery, textiles, and gold and silver artifacts. This museum, housed in an 18th-century viceroyal building, offered a comprehensive overview of 5,000 years of Peruvian history, enriching my understanding of the cultural evolution in this region.

A discussion of my experience would be incomplete without mentioning Peruvian gastronomy. Culinary traditions are crucial for understanding a culture. Through its cuisine, one can discern the historical influences of various cultures, including indigenous, Spanish, and Asian. The diverse flavors and ingredients reflect centuries of tradition and recipes passed down through generations. In 2011, Peruvian gastronomy was recognized as “Cultural Heritage of the Americas for the World” by the Organization of American States, and in 2023, UNESCO designated ceviche as an expression of traditional Peruvian cuisine and intangible cultural heritage of humanity. This is a topic of significant focus in my Advanced Spanish classes. My curiosity and eagerness to sample these esteemed dishes led me to Astrid y Gastón, a restaurant housed in a unique three-century-old colonial mansion, known for its innovative take on Peruvian flavors. The chef couple, renowned globally, provided an extraordinary culinary experience. Gastón Acurio, often referred to as the ambassador of Peruvian cuisine, and Astrid Gutsche, a celebrated pastry chef, have been instrumental in promoting Peruvian gastronomy worldwide. During my visit, I had the pleasure of meeting Astrid and capturing a memorable photograph with her. Their menu, which emphasizes local ingredients and traditional recipes with a contemporary twist, offers a deep dive into the rich culinary heritage of Peru. This trip was an invaluable experience, providing a deep understanding of why Peru is hailed as “South America’s Leading Cultural Destination.” Such an experience must be lived firsthand to fully appreciate its significance. The knowledge and experiences I have gained will undoubtedly enrich my teaching and offer my students a more profound connection to the vibrant culture and history of Peru.

CHIDSEY SOCIETY

In 1993,

the Trustees of St. John’s School established the Alan Lake Chidsey Society to honor those special individuals who have included the School in their estate plans. From the beginning, estate gifts have played a crucial role in the remarkable growth and success of St. John’s. A special thanks to each of our Chidsey Society members for carrying on this important tradition – your foresight will leave a legacy for generations of students to come and ensure our ability to plan for the future. Be sure to let St. John’s know if you have included the School in your estate plans. It allows us to thank you for the plans you have made, ensure that we are able to carry out your wishes, and it may even inspire generosity in others.

Anonymous Mr. Mark G. Avery ’76 & Mrs. Nissa Avery Mr. Jonathan S. Avery ’80 Mr. Jerome C. Axelrod ’59 Marci & Bill Bahr Mr. John H. Beebe ’60† Mr. E. P. Cannon & Mrs. Maurie Ankenman Cannon ’61 Mrs. Josephine Emilie Cannon† Mr. & Mrs. Chris Carpenter Mr. & Mrs. Albert Chao Mr. Ollye H. Christopher† Mrs. Theodore W. Cooper, Sr.† Mr. Bruce G. Crawford ’74 & Ms. Laura Rowe ’83 Mr. & Mrs. Samuel S. Crocker Mrs. Mary Woodson Crowell ’57† Mr. & Mrs. John Dorian Curtin, Jr.† Ms. Alice E. Davidson ’62 Mrs. Helen Bloxsom Davis ’55† Dr. & Mrs. Mark Desjardins Michelle & Mark Dini Mr. John L. Drye ’67 Mr. & Mrs. Brady Sherrod Edwards Mr. & Mrs. John W. Elder† Mr. A. Jennings Ellis, Jr. ’62† Mr. Jesse Byron Flansburg† Mr. L. Henry Gissel, Jr. ’54† Lt. Colonel Daniel Francis Goodwin ’88 & Mrs. Kathleen P. Goodwin Mr. Timothy L. Goodwin ’60 & Mrs. Virginia N. Goodwin Mr. David F. Gow ’81 & Mrs. Audrey H. Gow Mr. Lindsay Hall, Jr. ’62†

The Honorable Reagan C. Helm ’59† & Mrs. Cathy Helm Mr. Matthew Reagan Helm Mrs. Kate McCarthy Helm David Hendricks & Lorraine McKenna-Hendricks Mr. Edwin H. Higgins & Mrs. Page K. Higgins† Mr. C. Marks Hinton, Jr. ’60† & Mrs. Barbara Hinton Mr. Marks Hinton, Sr.† Mr. & Mrs. William J. Hitzhusen Mr. Paul W. Hobby ’78 & Mrs. Janet Hobby Ms. Molly T. Ivins ’62† Tom† & Rebecca Jay Ann & Johnny ’63 Johnson Mr. Lewis Avery Jones ’59† & Mrs. Judith G. Jones Mr. James J. Jump, Sr. Mr. Stuart R. Kensinger ’81† & Mrs. Angie Kensinger† Mr. J. David Kirkland, Jr. ’76† & Mrs. Anne A. Kirkland Mr. John A. Kley† Ms. Margaret A. Kostial ’82 Mr. & Mrs. David M. Kyle Mrs. Sally Lacey Ms. Margo E. Lamb ’52† Mrs. Brenda Lary Mr. Laurence Scott Leopold ’86 Mr. Leo Linbeck, Jr.† William J. Mares ’58† & Christine Hadsel

Mr. Barry H. Margolis ’63 & Mrs. Rosalyn Margolis Mr. Joseph M. Mayhew ’54† & Mrs. Joseph M. Mayhew Dr. Sally E. Miller Mr. John S. Moody ’67 & Mrs. Eileen A. Moody Mr. Hugo V. Neuhaus, Jr.† Mr. Charles R. Peissel ’67 Mrs. Sarah Rabinow Pesikoff ’86† Mr. Louis R. Pizzolatto† Dr. Dwight L. Raulston ’71 & Mrs. Elva Raulston Mr. Vincent M. Reyes ’24 Dr. George E. Rupp & Mrs. Nancy F. Rupp Dr. Herbert H. Schaumburg ’52 Mr. & Mrs. David G. Schmidt Dr. David J. Schmoll ’70† Mrs. Rex Shanks, Jr.† Ms. Katherine Shanks Dodd ’85 Mr. Jonathan L. Sloan ’03 & Mrs. Ashley C. Sloan Mr. A. Theodore Stautberg, Jr. ’64† Mrs. Elizabeth A. Stephens ’63 Mrs. June Gray Stobaugh† Mr. John R. Sult ’77 & Mrs. Susan Sult Mr. Payson Eliot Tucker ’95 The Honorable Carl W. Vogt ’54 & Mrs. Margrit W. Vogt Mrs. Carnes W. Weaver† Mr. & Mrs. Darryl L. Wilson Ms. Jocelyn V. Bell Winslow† Mr. James O. Winston, Jr.† † Deceased

LETTER FROM REBECCA LINN HUGHES ’06, ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT

Dear Alumni, few weeks ago, I had the privilege of welcoming the Class of 2024 to the St. John’s Alumni Community at their Class Send-off. For those of you who may not know, the Send-off event is the last official gathering on campus for the most recent graduates before they depart for college. The former students, now alumni, have the opportunity to see one another and interact with the faculty on campus.

It was a remarkable experience to sit back and see the excitement of these recent graduates during this event. Students were just as eager to see the faculty members as they were to see their friends one last time before going their separate ways. For just a few moments, we took the opportunity to pause their interactions and impart a few words of wisdom. Head of School Dan Alig reiterated his message from this year’s Commencement – that Claremont Lane would always be “home” for the students of St. John’s. It is also my hope as the Alumni Board President that our newest alumni feel that they always have a “home” with us. We cannot wait to see the remarkable things that they will do and look forward to them always returning home to St. John’s – in some form or fashion – to share their successes with the alumni community. We are an Alumni Association of over 7,000 graduates. While we were all impacted by our St. John’s experience, the connection to the School differs for each of us. Over the next year, I encourage you all to strengthen your connection with St. John’s, to engage with your classmates, and to share your successes with us. We have several events planned to help you connect in these ways.

Alumni Football Watch Party 7 pm, Friday, October 4, 2024, Ankerman Tradition Room Join fellow Alumni in the Ankerman Tradition Room to cheer on the Mavericks as they play The John Cooper School on Skip Lee Field. This is a festive and casual event, and we look forward to you cheering our team to victory!

St. John’s Network Social 6:30 pm, Thursday, November 14, 2024, Flores Hall For the third year, our Alumni have the opportunity to engage with current SJS juniors and seniors at the Network Social. The gathering allows students to connect with alumni in a professional setting, to learn about different career paths, and to get advice on the next steps in their academic journey. You will be so impressed by the poise and professionalism of our students!

College-Age Tea 12 pm, Thursday, December 19, 2024, The Quad To kick off winter break, our College-Age Alumni will gather in the Quad to reconnect with classmates and mingle with teachers. Last year's event featured kolaches — a firm favorite that many alumni said they missed during college—and hot chocolate. It’s a wonderful opportunity for alumni and faculty to share memories and enjoy each other’s company.

Phonathon 6 pm, Tuesday, March 18, 2025, Flores Hall On Giving Day, alumni can engage in a friendly competition with the chance to win prizes throughout the evening. Milestone classes with the highest participation and dollars raised will receive additional funds for Reunion planning.

AlumniNews

Reunion Weekend April 25–26, 2025 Our final alumni event of the year, we look forward to celebrating Reunion Weekend with you all in April. We will have several events throughout the weekend, including a Lifelong Learning Panel Discussion, Spring Fling, student-led tours, and the Alumni Awards Luncheon. For those alumni celebrating a milestone reunion, there will be even more events for you to reconnect specifically with your classmates. Reunion Weekend is truly an event for all alumni, and it would not be possible without the continued support and generosity of the Alumni Association.

2024-2025 St. John’s Alumni Board REBECCA LINN HUGHES ’06 President

Matthew Alexander ’02 Edward Aviles ’88 Shiree Berry ’98 Laura Hawkins Chapman ’03 Channing Bosler Davey ’90 Nick Dhesi ’03 John Drye ’67

In addition to attending events, there are other ways alumni can remain actively involved in the life of St. John’s School, even from afar. Chief among them is participating in this year’s nominating process for our Alumni Awards, which are now awarded during the annual Alumni Awards Luncheon on the Saturday of Reunion Weekend, with all alumni welcome to attend. You can find detailed descriptions of these honors and the link to submit nominations on the alumni webpage of the School’s website www.sjs.org. We will be accepting nominations for the 2025 awards through October 30. Our fellow alumni continue to do incredible and impactful things throughout the world, and it is an honor to lead this effort to recognize some of them each year. As the school year begins at St. John’s, I think gratefully about the incredible impact these Storied Cloisters have had in my own life, and I am excited to learn how they have impacted yours!

Bradley Eisemann ’04 John Elkins ’10 Sue Gibson ’91 John Griffin ’06 Grace Hobby Grundy ’08 Jacob Halevy ’10 Nelle Pace Jennings ’85 Sehr Charania Lalani ’03 Courtney Miller ’06 Michael Pipkin ’01 Kathryn Casey Principe ’89 Emily Duncan Rodgers ’98 Nikita Malani Shukla ’05 Jennifer Trieschman ’16 John Wallace ’79

Best,

C.S. “Stobie” Whitmore ’68 Stephanie Herbert Wiegand ’02 Lea Williams ’02 Alex Young ’06 Janie Wilde Zilkha ’10

REBECCA LINN HUGHES ’06 Alumni Board President

AlumniNews

St. John’s Summer

Internship Program SUMMER 2024

ince its inaugural cohort in summer 2013, the St. John’s Summer Internship Program has continued to place students in realworld work environments to provide the opportunity to learn more about potential professions. While the founders of the program aimed to place 12 students in internships during that first year, the program has grown significantly since. This past summer, 99 students out of a senior class of 171 participated in the program, an increase of approximately 50% over last year’s group. The internships are generally two-week unpaid summer experiences. Given that SJS students, particularly rising seniors, typically have very busy schedules throughout the summer, the interns and sponsors are free to schedule the internships during weeks that are mutually available to both. This flexibility allows the program offerings to complement their other summer experiences, whether academic, athletics, or vacations with family. The volunteer sponsors are the heart of the program as they take on and host interns in their various lines of work. All these hosts are either alumni or have a direct connection with the school such as alumni parent, alumni spouse, or current SJS parent. As this program originated through the SJS Alumni Board, the Networking Committee of the board continues to refine and grow the program. Led this past year by Chair BRADLEY EISEMANN ’04 and Vice-Chair SEHR CHARANIA LALANI ’03, the committee secured 62 different sponsors to host students at various times between the end of May and the second week of August, just as school resumed.

The program aims to meet the specific interests of the students who apply for it, resulting in different levels of demand for various professions each year. This past summer, internships in business and medicine accounted for over half of the internships at 36% and 21% respectively. Offerings in business ranged from real estate to finance to manufacturing, with a hefty focus on the energy industry, to include several offerings in new and sustainable energy technologies. Within the medical field, students experienced a wide range of specialties, many of which included firsthand experiences in surgery. We also had a student intern in a veterinary clinic.

ANNIE VILLA ’25

with a friend at Washington Heights Animal Clinic.

AlumniNews Students interested in law or politics made up 13% of the internships, with students spending time in law firms as well as the offices of local government leaders. Rounding out the industries, 10% of the students interned in techfocused organizations and another 10% experienced opportunities in arts-related fields, to include journalism, creative writing, architecture and design, and musical composition. While the overarching goal for the internship program is for the students to gain meaningful work experiences, the hope is that the students are able to contribute worthily while under the tutelage of their hosts. MICHAEL PIPKIN ’01 recently served as President of the Alumni Board and is the CEO of Rushmore Resources Partners. His company has sponsored several interns each of the past four summers. Michael shares, “While each intern has different interests, experiences, stories, and aspirations, the SJS students consistently demonstrate intellectual curiosity, high character, effective written and verbal communication skills, and raw talent. Each summer, I am impressed by their professionalism, maturity, and sense of accountability.”

SOFIA ABOUL-ENEIN ’25 worked in the law office at

Bracewell this summer for alumni parent Amy Halevy, who she describes as “an inspiration.” Sofia went on to describe her internship as “a fun and educational experience for me. They made me feel welcome and gave me a lot of support and insight into the field.” She went on to note, “My boss said they would actually use my materials in client meetings, so I felt proud of contributing to them since they had given me so much support.” In the end, the St. John’s Summer Internship Program continues to deliver in manifold ways, including cases that offer the potential for lifelong impact. Shortly after completing his internship this summer with alumni parent and cardiac surgeon Dr. Mahesh Ramchandani, JACK BOWLING ’25 shared in a handwritten note of thanks, “The operations were the most amazing thing I have ever seen.” He continued, “I now know without a doubt that I want to put in the work and become a cardiac surgeon. This internship was truly life changing, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity.”

SOFIA ABOULENEIN ’25 in front of

her summer office at Bracewell.

ARMAAN TALABI ’25 with Dr. Anthony Brissett (left) and Dr. Mas Takashima (right) after completing his internship at the Otolaryngology Department of Houston Methodist Hospital.

AlumniNews

THANK YOU to these volunteers who hosted students during the summer of 2024!

Sallie Alcorn Houston City Council MATTHEW ALEXANDER ’02 Sysco Foods JEAN-PIERRE BAIZAN ’86 SolvChem, Inc. and PSC STEVEN BENDER ’01 Cactus Wellhead DAVID BILGER ’06 Genesis Park DAVID BLOOME ’88 Fondren Orthopedic Group KATY TERRELL BOETTCHER ’07 Ara Partners WINFIELD CAMPBELL ’91 Methodist West Orthopedics Carol Cantrell Cantrell & Cantrell, PLLC John Chapman Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co.

PAUL DAVEY ’82 Balcara Group, LLC

DEETS HOFFMAN ’06 Leaf & Grain

JOEY ROMANO ’01 PearlX Infrastructure

GEORGE DEMONTROND ’01 DeMontrond Automotive

Christopher Hollins City Controller, City of Houston

AMINAH MAE SAFI ’05 Author

FRANK DONNELLY ’00 Kensinger Donnelly LLC

Ugo Ihekweazu Fondren Orthopedic Group

RAJ SALHOTRA ’09 Momentum Education

CAROLINE DOUGHERTY ’06 NOV

RYAN JEWETT ’07 The Finger Companies

LESLIE ELKINS SASSER Leslie Elkins Architecture

ANNIE CRINER EIFLER ’03 Gulf Coast Entertainment

BEN JOHNSTON ’98 Ben Johnston Design

DON SCHAFFER ’69 Pediatrics of Greater Houston

CAMPBELL EIFLER ’01 Quorum Software

Min Kim Houston Methodist Thoracic Surgery

ERIC SHAFER ’89 IndoorMedia Marketing

ROBERT EIFLER ’98 Noble Corporation BRADLEY EISEMANN ’04 Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center NISHA GADGIL ’05 Texas Children’s Pediatric Neurosurgery Amy Garrou Washington Heights Veterinary Clinic NEEL GONUGUNTLA ’02 Dallas Venture Capital Amy Halevy Bracewell LLP ERIC HAMILL ’05 Eric Hamill MD Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery

TAYLOR CHAPMAN ’01 New Climate Ventures

CLAYTON CRUM HARKNESS ’08 CFP Foundation

ALLISON YOUNG CHAVEZ ’03 Sweet Paris Creperie & Cafe

Spencer Harkness Pearl River Companies

Pierre Chevray Houston Methodist Plastic Surgery

MARY HARRISON ’11 Mary Harrison Design AMANDA HASSLER ’06 Hassler Dermatology

TODD LEFFLER ’95 Todd A. Leffler, Attorney at Law

AYDIN SOHEILI ’02 Houston Methodist Radiology

JAMIE LIANG ’98 TerraVolta Resources

NATHAN STARKE ’03 Houston Methodist Urology Associates

Frank Liu POST Houston

JOHN STROHMEYER ’97 Strohmeyer Law PLLC

Jordan Magaziner The Buzz Magazines

Mas Takashima Houston Methodist Otolaryngotomy

CHRISTOPHER MCCORD ’96 Healthcare Growth Partners ANGUS MITCHELL ’09 Flank Mahdieh Parizi Debakey VA Medical Center

HARRY THOMPSON ’06 Allen Boone Humphries Robinson LLC STEFFIE NELSON TOMSON ’02 Getaway Sticks

HUNTER PERRIN ’95 Guitarist/Composer

ALISON WEAVER ’89 Rice University Moody Center for the Arts

MICHAEL PIPKIN ’01 Rushmore Resource Partners

PATRICK YIP ’96 Climate Investment

ADAM POLLOCK ’87 Stellus Capital Management, LLC

ALEX YOUNG ’06 Artisan American

Mahesh Ramchandani Houston Methodist Cardiothoracic Surgery

AlumniNews

CLASS OF 2024 SEND-OFF The newly graduated Class of 2024 came together for its first official gathering as St. John’s Alumni. The classmates enjoyed snacks and sno-cones while mingling with their peers before departing for their first college semester.

AJAY CLARK-DESAI ’24,

AVA OLIVER ’24, ELLA PIPER CLAFFY ’24,

Allyson LaBorde

Kimm Shafer

Jeremy Johnson, ANNIE JONES ’24, Emily Reppart, David Nathan

JOEY CRAIN ’24, NOLAN HUGHES ’24, ALEX RAIZNER ’24, ZELL GODBOLD ’24, JACKSON BYERS ’24, SAM HUMPHRIES ’24, JOHN BURNETT ’24

AVALYN MOSTYN ’24, KAITLYN CHANG ’24, CHARLOTTE STOKES ’24, MAGGIE WHELAN ’24

Steven Scales, LIBBY SMITH ’24,

SOPHIA CHON ’24

SHAHEEN FAZAL-MERCHANT ’24, ANDREW SORAK ’24

S T. J O H N ’ S A LU M N I O N L I N K E D I N !

ith the recent addition of the Class of 2024, St. John’s alumni now number more than 7,000! Given the forecast of around 175 students graduating annually, our alumni body will continue to grow for the foreseeable future. There are many ways alumni can remain connected with St. John’s once they move beyond the Storied Cloisters ... the SJS website, Update magazine and alumni newsletters, and social media channels Facebook, Instagram, and X, formerly known as Twitter. While all of these channels offer opportunities for alumni to keep up with current events at school, there is a specific web-based community available for SJS alumni to foster professional growth and promote professional opportunity–LinkedIn. A little over a year ago, the Alumni Team Office migrated its professional network from a third party application to a St. John’s Alumni Group on LinkedIn. With 1,820 current members, up from 1,650 a year ago, this online network continues to grow, and as this network grows, so will the opportunities within it. Through the SJS Alumni Group on LinkedIn you can: ● Connect with fellow alumni in similar careers or industries ● Offer career guidance or mentoring in your field or seek a mentor among seasoned professionals ● Post job opportunities at your organization or seek them out from within the group ● Share and celebrate the professional accomplishments of fellow alumni To join this group, simply navigate LinkedIn to the St. John’s School Alumni Association and submit a request to join. Then post away! Please contact PHILIP CANNON ’85, Director of Alumni Engagement, with any questions. You can reach him at pcannon@sjs.org or 713-850-4104.

ClassNotes

ClassNotes DEAR ALUMNI, The purpose of Class Notes is to share updates on life events and accomplishments. We enjoy reporting on marriages and births (but as policy do not report engagements or pregnancies). In addition, this is not intended for advertisements or PR. For many of our classes, there is at least one Class Agent who gathers the Class Notes. Classes not listed do not have Class Notes to report. If you are interested in volunteering to be a Class Agent, please contact alumni@sjs.org. If you would like to share news for Class Notes you can send it directly to classnotes@sjs.org.

CLASS OF

1954

JIM GREENWOOD

jmgrnwd@aol.com JIM GREENWOOD lives in the Briargrove/Tanglewood neighborhood of Houston with his wife of 60+ years, the former Rose Colleen “Cody” Caldwell, now Greenwood (Lamar 1954/Rice 1958). He is in pretty good health, walks around the block or in Memorial Park (about a mile) three or four times a week, uses a hearing aid and sends letters to the editor of the Houston Chronicle and Rice OWLMANAC that occasionally get published, and enjoys reading both fiction and non-fiction. His favorite SJS teachers were Mr. Richards (biology and football) and Mr. Flansburg (Math and advisor). Jim’s favorite memory was the defeat of Kinkaid’s previously undefeated football team capping off their own undefeated season as seniors.

JAN W. MARES and his wife, Lois, live in a retirement home complex in Washington, D.C., where he is able to continue working on economic, energy, and climate projects at Resources for the Future, a non-partisan economic think tank. Although he does not go to a gym, he has been able to walk two or more miles a day and otherwise stay healthy. The encouragement to study chemistry from Mr. Nelson and the intellectual strictness of Mr. Salls have helped him ever since. Although the 1953 victory over Kinkaid was his single most memorable event at St. John’s, the cumulative excellent teaching and friendly classmates were collectively the most important aspect of being at St. John’s. DON RUTHVEN and his wife, Becky, live in the Afton Oaks area of Houston. He considers his health to be very good and tries to maintain an exercise routine of an upper and lower body strength workout along with 2-3 miles of treadmill walking six days a week. He still pursues his love of photography and some experimentation in the

kitchen. Don and Becky love to travel, having visited Italy, Switzerland, and Paris in the last few years and the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina this fall. A couple of his favorite teachers were Freeman Nixon and Chilton Thompson, and one of his favorite memories was Mr. Chidsey allowing him to perform on the Hoodwink stage with pancake makeup instead of greasepaint which was the stage makeup du jour. CARL VOGT lives in San Francisco with Margrit, his wife of 56 years, of Kiel, Germany. He is moving slower but in good health, walking a couple of miles three or so times a week, gym once maybe. He has been rewriting a lease for their co-op apartment, reading, and he and Margrit took a cruise through the Panama Canal last January. There were four favorite teachers at St. John’s who have ever since been a part of Carl’s life: Chidsey, Salls, Nelson, and Richards and many favorite memories including the victory over Kinkaid.

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

1959

HARRIS GREENWOOD

harrisgreenwood@gmail.com ROGER BEEBE

rbeebe@velaw.com

As a class, our big event of this year was our SJS 65th class reunion. We were Headmaster Alan Chidsey’s first class to go K through 12 having entered in 1946 and graduated in 1959. ROGER BEEBE, DEBORAH DETERING, CAROL BOREN, and DICK REYNOLDS served as the reunion planning committee. The reunion began on Friday, April 12 with a poolside lunch at the Bayou Club hosted by JOHN KELSEY. The Bayou Club brought back many fond party,

pool, and polo memories, especially our special dinner for our 50th reunion. That Friday evening, MARCIA HEYNE MODESETT and husband Jack hosted a wonderful dinner at their three-story “swankienda” on Westgate which they purchased from John Kelsey many years ago. As the party was winding down, we were all seated around the living room when Jack challenged each of us to declare what special project we

REUNION

CLASS OF 1959 Seated left to right: Susan Favrot, JOHN KELSEY, DEBORAH DETERING, MARCIA HEYNE MODESETT, Lanier Whilden, BINKY PETERS STROM, and Bettie Lee Standing left to right: RONNIE LEE, LENOIR JOSEY, Jack Modesett, LARRY FAVROT, DICK REYNOLDS, Wade Whilden, ROMELIA FAVROT ’61, HARRIS GREENWOOD, and CAROL BOREN

ClassNotes

Jenine Alig, Head of School Dan Alig, and JOHN KELSEY

intended to complete before we leave planet Earth … what last legacy we intended to leave to our posterity. The baton was passed around the room as each of us declared our intentions. Pretty interesting finish to a very special party. Thank you, Jack, and thank you, mates, for participating! Our third event was a Saturday dinner on Inverness hosted by LENOIR JOSEY. This house was built by classmate LARRY FAVROT’s father and was the site of the dinner preceding our senior prom 65 years ago. The more things change, the more they stay the same. Twelve of our 25 living classmates attended the reunion with Roger Beebe being excused due to open heart surgery the following Monday. Attendees included JERRY AXELROD, who made a cameo appearance at the Bayou Club. Four of our five “first grade redshirts,” namely DEBORAH DETERING, HARRIS GREENWOOD with wife ROMELIA FAVROT ’61, LENOIR JOSEY, and RONNIE LEE with wife Bettie. LARRY FAVROT and wife Susan, MARCIA HEYNE MODESETT and Jack, JOHN KELSEY, BINKY PETERS STROM

CAROL BOREN

DEBORAH DETERING

(who lost her husband John last summer), and DICK REYNOLDS were all with us. Additionally, we had Wade Whilden with his wife, Lanier. Wade was declared an honorary member of the class at our mini-reunion in Estes Park due to his close friendship and caring support for REAGAN HELM during his last years, his loyal attendance at so many of our sporting events, and the two Johnnycake “points” he deserved for his performance in South Pacific, concluding with his daring Hoodwink escape from Mr. Chidsey out the back door during his final rehearsal performance. We were also blessed by MAURIE ANKENMAN CANNON ’61 and husband Philip, who joined us at the Bayou Club, and current Head of School Dan Alig and his wife, Jenine, who joined us at Lenoir’s house on Saturday evening.

just a bit slower. She reminds us not to forget to enjoy every minute that is left to us!

As I was composing this blurb, I discovered that GAY BLOCK, our distinguished/renowned Santa Fe photographer, was opening her next show entitled Gay Block: About Love in Santa Fe on June 29, 2024. Gay wants us to know that being octogenarians does not mean that our lives are over,

Check out the Class of 1974 Class Notes for a mention of classmate ALAN COWLES.

More than 65 years ago, we won both of the Girls SPC Championships (basketball and volleyball) and two of the three Boys Conference Championships (football and track). As for basketball, we had the best record in the School’s history (21-4) with a number of 4A and Catholic school wins. I believe our class can collect many more victories in the years ahead because the SJS Class of 1959 is still the best!

CLASS OF

1960

TIM GOODWIN

tgood@msn.com

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

1961

DIANA BLAND LINDER

dlinderhaus@aol.com ROMELIA FAVROT reported that KATHY HIESINGER retired from the Philadelphia Museum of Art after a career spanning more than 50 years and culminating in her position as The J. Mahlon Black, Jr. Family Senior Curator of European Decorative Arts after 1700. On November 18, 2023, at the Collab Design Excellence Awards, Kathy was celebrated and honored with a standing ovation from her peers. In recognition of Kathy’s many years of distinguished service, the Museum has granted her the honorary title of Senior Curator Emeritus of European Decorative Arts.

CLASS OF

1962

JIM ROWLES

jrowles93@gmail.com DAVID GRAHAM was kind enough to let me know why I wasn’t hearing back from anyone on my appeal for submissions to the Class Notes. David wrote, “I doubt you will (get) much info from Houston as we were hit hard by Beryl, and most people have no electricity. So your request is low priority.” He reported a few hours later, “Dealing with these issues, particularly a backyard full of branches, does help. River Oaks looks like it did after Carla.”

David Graham’s mention of Hurricane Carla evoked LOUISE OVERSTREET MALEY’s memories of that storm: “Hurricane Carla! My father was an insurance man, and we drove down to Galveston as everyone was leaving. He was writing an article about the devastation. We were the only ones 48

going into the town. Dined at Gaido’s with the police, firemen, etc. I will never forget the waves crashing up over the seawall. Daddy was also, years earlier, a reporter for The Houston Press and told us stories of the piers where gambling was going on. Gamblers were alerted when feds were coming and turned the tables upside down so all money and chips fell into the ocean. Imagine many have tried recovering that bounty!”

the past two years.” Susie participated in one of our monthly Zoom calls where we celebrated her birthday which was on April 24. She sent pictures of her father holding her as a baby in his arms, Susie holding a grandchild in her arms, and a third one of Susie and her brother GRANT THOMAS ’63.

Louise seems to enjoy the outdoors and bird watching. She writes, “Spent a week on Sebago Lake in Maine and had perfect weather. Have been going there since I was about 3 years old. Terry and I got COVID on our plane trip home but are clear now. Boise is hot hot this week, but we built a cabin on Cascade Lake where we go to cool off in the mountains. Our youngest son, Blaine, is chair of the anatomy department for our medical school. Our oldest, Reading, designed the chip for the GoPro camera and decided to take his shares and quit working. He mostly goes to Burning Man events around the country. I went on a Viking cruise through the Panama Canal in December and have many wonderful memories of hiking trips all over Europe. Even met a man in Italy who took all seven of us women hikers to dinner and mentioned his yacht in the Balkan Sea. I am positive he was an oligarch!” SUSIE THOMAS HERMANSON writes from Connecticut where “life these days is pretty slow. I am in CT for the summer, with ex-h, grandkids and daughters coming and going, which is enough activity for me. Also dealing with fraud in my bank account, the cure for which seems more painful than the fraud itself. Also waiting for blood test results which will tell me why I have been so short of breath for

Top: SUSIE THOMAS HERMANSON with her grandchild Middle: SUSIE THOMAS HERMANSON in the arms of her father, along with brother GRANT ’63 Bottom: SUSIE THOMAS HERMANSON with brother GRANT ’63

ClassNotes

Maine for the first time in August with the plan to do a lot of walking and rehabbing to get back in shape. The fall holds lots of prospects for hunting and fishing–a return to the hunter/gatherer lifestyle. With kids and grandkids (from 6 to 22) life is interesting. Keep walking and don’t let the old man in as best as you can!”

Thomas, D’Lexis, Karen, and TOM ROYCE in Scotland

TOM ROYCE reports on a fascinating experience he had in Scotland, adding a photograph. Tommy writes, “September of last year, Karen, son Thomas, D’Lexis, and I went to Scotland, staying at The Gleneagles Hotel, participating in a Hawk Hunt. The Harris Hawk can reach speeds up to 29 miles per hour with a wingspan of 39.37 to 57.34 inches. Luna and Hendrick (names of the two hawks) would capture and kill the rabbit which was driven out of its hole by a ferret!” LLOYD BENTSEN picked up the thread of Hurricane Beryl, capturing the experience many of you had. He wrote, “Beryl presented a quandary for me. While I continued to get texts and email, we had no cable or internet. Many of the texts concerning restoration of power and cable/internet had links to websites for more information ... I think links don’t work without the internet, which doesn’t work without power. Or do I have it wrong? Or do I owe someone an apology?”

ALICE DAVIDSON writes that she and Katherine “had a week of hiking and concerts in Vienna and Salzburg in May, spoiled only by returning with COVID. Last week we were hiking and listening to concerts at the Brevard Music Festival in NC.” Undertaking a new project, as we all should be doing, Alice reports, “I’m trying to learn how to play the violin, but am still at a scratchy beginner level. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever tried, but I love it and hope it’s good for eye-brain-hand coordination if I don’t give up.” She closes by saying, “I hope to join you for the Zoom, if only for a short time.” On Zoom, Alice will discover that it is like swimming: First you put your toes in, and then you dive in and are swimming and loving every minute of it. FRED HEYNE, acknowledging the toll the years has taken on his body, reports that “To celebrate the big 80 I have taken the last eight months off and dedicated them to maintenance of this aging body, having two hip replacements and a knee surgery, so that I can get back out and start running at life again. Heading to

Classmate KAREN “CANDY” GOLDFARB KRUESI writes, “Now that I have retired from my ‘high-paying’ volunteer ‘jobs,’ I no longer feel the need to be relevant (society-driven) and am glad to be free to pursue activities that are meaningful (soul driven). I have no grandchildren to brighten my days but do have a delightful goddaughter who lives in California and has just been promoted to Producer. Also, I’m getting used to downtown city life, but miss the ‘farm’ and the orchards, lakes, and even the wild animals. Frequently, I travel back and forth between Chattanooga and Atlanta to visit a wonderful man who has been in my life for some time. It’s hard to believe this is the 80th year around the sun for most of our class but know that we all are grateful.” ERNEST WERLIN writes, “I am taking a big step of moving to an independent living facility in Sarasota. Being single and with my two daughters out of the country, I felt that I needed to get medical backup on a going forward basis. In addition, the facility has a lot of activities. While I try to keep busy, I do find the daytime to be long, especially during summer when I face the same heat as Houston and there are virtually no cultural activities. I wonder if any of you have considered such an option?”

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

1963

A.P. “ANDY” GREENWOOD

apgreenwood1946@gmail.com

JIM ROWLES and the cover of his new book

JIM ROWLES reports that he plans to move from Tracy, a hot inland city in the San Joaquin Valley, to Half Moon Bay, a small town on the Pacific Coast 20 miles south of San Francisco. Recently, when it was 110 degrees in Tracy, it was 69 degrees in Half Moon Bay. He reports that “for the last several months I have been deeply involved in publishing my forthcoming book

The Rape of American Democracy: Republican Actions and Democratic Failures, 2016-2021. What We Knew and When We Knew It (due in August).” In the process, he writes, “I have been learning how to publish a book, acting as the Editor and coordinating the work of my Book Designer/Typesetter in Prague, my Copy Editor in Paris, and my Indexer in Vancouver, Washington. It is a new skill set.” He is excited about writing and publishing books, in addition to writing columns as an international affairs columnist. He urges classmates to check out his Substack newsletter Trenchant Observations at www.jamesrowles.substack.com. The present book deals with hot political issues, Jim writes, adding, “I hope people will have the intellectual curiosity to read the book and to engage seriously with the events it describes and the analyses it offers.” Preparing for other reactions, Jim adds, “I am now reading You Can’t Go Home Again by Thomas Wolfe (1934).” 50

Still living in a beautiful home adjacent to a lake in Pawleys Island, SC (not on the island itself), and like most of us, RICHARD MOORE says that life is slowing down quite a bit, which he says is not bad. He is still involved in research and writing, working on a new edition of his published book Fishes of the Gulf of Mexico, and when finished with that, more work on another of his books Biology of Fishes. Richard and his wife, Robin, made it to Australia for a fun visit with their son and daughter-in-law, and their son reciprocated with a visit to South Carolina this past spring. As usual, Richard is enjoying what life has to offer. JUDY CARMACK BROSS submitted her report while on the road from her home in Chicago to Murray Bay, Quebec, where she spent a summer full of outdoor adventures. She continues to love publishing and writing for her weekly online magazine Classic Chicago and is delighted that it has grown in both readership and writers. As you may know, Judy was a reporter and entertainment writer for the Houston Chronicle, The Fort Worth Press, and the Boston Herald American, and the author of a very-well written and informative non-fiction book

Murray Bay: The Gilded Age. She and her daughter, Alice, celebrated Judy’s birthday in one of their favorite cities Venice during the Biennale, a biannual celebration of art and architecture which had its beginnings in 1937. Judy is currently writing a children’s book about her beloved car named Murray who was stolen off the Chicago streets, but subsequently was

found and is doing fine. That car accompanied Judy and her late husband, John, on many explorations. Having 12 grandchildren is a continuing delight for Judy, and having them located all across the country results in grandparent days in many fun places. Her message to her classmates was that she would love to see them any time they are in Chicago. Speaking of Judy, SUSAN WILSON DICKSON recently finished writing a book that she and Judy had started co-writing during the COVID pandemic. The book The Devil Wears Diamonds was inspired by an event at St. John’s that occurred when they were in the fourth grade and is a murder mystery about two 70-year old women whose friend drops dead while they are having lunch at Tony’s. Judy had to drop out because of her job publishing her newspaper in Chicago, and Susan decided she had to finish what she started, just like SJS taught her. Susan is still living on the twentieth floor of the Lamar Tower in Houston, and in September she enjoyed a nice trip to France. Even though HARRIET BROWN SCULLEY now lives in Italy, Susan and she keep in close contact with each other. ANNE RIQUELMY YEAKEL and husband Lee still live in the home they built for their old age nearly 30 years ago– including a ramp to the front door that was helpful even when they were sprightly. Lee immediately went to work at King & Spalding, an international law firm, after he retired from his job as a U.S. District Judge, so their days still follow a lawyerly routine. They both drove to Marshall, TX, for his first K&S appearance in a courtroom.

ClassNotes

JIM GAY underwent some significant life changes this past year, including retiring from his successful mortgage business and relocating back to Texas from Santa Fe, NM. While in the process of determining his next permanent home, Jim enjoyed living with his daughters and their families: Courtney in Houston and Caroline in Austin. He likes both Austin and Houston, and especially is happy with the availability of more oxygen living nearer to sea level.

intelligence as they profoundly influence higher education. He is also an associate editor for columns and departments for the scholarly bi-monthly IEEE IT Professional Journal. These activities keep him abreast of this era’s rapid-fire technological advancements. Mary Joy, now a retired head of school, serves on an oversight board for the Xavierian Brothers high schools and spearheads a local corporate educational foundation. Despite their ongoing responsibilities, George and Mary Joy continued to enjoy post-retirement travel. They spent time in Portugal featuring Lisbon and a cruise on the Douro River. They also went to Arizona for a week in the wintertime. Most recently, they took their graduating high school grandson and their elementary school graduating granddaughter on a trip to pre-Olympic Paris, France, exposing them to the magnificent French heritage. The rest of the year was filled with more localized side trips, including their annual week-long, slow-down pilgrimage to New York City.

GEORGE HURLBURT and his wife, Mary Joy, remain ensconced in their Southern Maryland home on the tidal Potomac River. George officially achieved the status of a “geezer” by becoming an octogenarian. He never felt that would happen but concurs that “getting old is not for sissies.” He celebrated his advancing age by intentionally shedding burdensome non-profit responsibilities. Then, he was suddenly elected to chair the Board of Advisors for the University System of Maryland at the Southern Maryland Regional Center. This, together with co-editing the educational column for the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) monthly Computer Magazine, focuses him on the economics of online instruction and artificial

Sending greetings from Southern California, ANN BARBER shared a recent uplifting trip she made to Ojai, CA, an artists’ retreat south of Santa Barbara devastated in the Thomas Fire in December 2017 when 280,000 acres were burned and over a thousand homes were destroyed. Every year, she went there on her birthday, and she’d dared to make her annual trip four months after the catastrophic fire, only to find the surrounding hills looking like a blackened moonscape. But, seven years later this last April, her favorite place, where she goes to find handcrafted jewelry and pottery and just a luscious group of artisans who love to talk about their work, was back to its old self. It was such a joy for Ann to celebrate the renewal. Ann is still working, still writing, and

For years, JOHN WADE HARRIS has repeated a wonderful act of kindness by driving a friend whose health requires leaving Houston during the summer for cooler weather in upper Michigan. But the reward for John Wade includes staying in a great little house in the woods where the weather is quite enjoyable. The only problems there this year included a tick that tried to give John Wade Lyme disease, which he handled with antibiotics, and an occasionally destructive bear that paid John Wade and his friend a visit.

loving both. And she’s still dancing regularly. BARRY MARGOLIS and his wife, Rosalyn, celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary this past summer. To celebrate, they traveled with family and friends, including a three-week cruise from San Diego to Alaska and a stay with friends in Vancouver. They then continued on to Aspen with daughter Leslie and granddaughter Olivia to celebrate a friend’s 75th birthday, and to Vail for other friends’ 60th wedding anniversary. In August, Barry and Rosalyn spent a week in the Hamptons for a family wedding and a few days with daughter Leslie and her husband, Josh, in Montauk.

They still enjoy their home at Walden on Lake Conroe to get some relief from the Houston heat. They particularly enjoy it when their grandchildren come to the lake with their friends. Barry and Rosalyn continue to be involved in Houston community organizations including Texas Children’s and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. In May of this year, Rosalyn and Barry were honored at the JDRF Promise Ball with the JDRF Visionary Award. Also, they are active in their synagogue where the Margolis families have endowed the Margolis Art Gallery. Barry still shares a family office with his brothers, RODNEY ’57 and Kenneth, and is grateful for the times they still share together. Barry and Rosalyn are very close with their twin grandchildren, Olivia (SMU) and Alex (Indiana University), and talk or Facetime with them several times a week.

ClassNotes

Barry says, “Each day we are grateful for our gifts of friendships, family and health. We try to make sure to be kind and thoughtful to so many others that struggle. We particularly look forward to the times we can share with our SJS Class of ’63 mates.” BETSY HARRIS STEPHENS reported from her home in Clear Lake that her life has been unchanged for a while. She still is involved with charitable organizations and notes that the local traffic due to more and more development in neighboring League City, in her words, is ridiculous, and that pretty soon there’ll be no difference between Houston and Galveston.

Living in Dallas, TOM ADLER admits that most of what he and wife Diane do involves their children or grandchildren in one way or another. In the past year that included trips to Florida and New York, and a marvelous cruise. Otherwise, Tom says he’s just enjoying the easier pace of retirement. ANN STRICKLAND SHERRER is still living in the same house that her late husband, John, and she moved into over 40 years ago. She says that Keller has definitely changed over the years and is no longer a small town between Ft. Worth and Denton, as Dallas and Ft. Worth have merged together taking in everything in between.

She is still sitting on a few acres, but no longer has any animals except the wildlife which includes hawks nesting in her trees, bunnies hiding under her bushes, a possum family or two, and no telling what else in her barn. She’s even seen a coyote pass through occasionally.

Ann continues to volunteer at her church frequently, still helps with Meals on Wheels one day a week, and volunteers in the local food pantry to help feed the food insecure families in the area. She stays fit by going to her senior center five mornings a week to walk with others and also to take balance class and Tai Chi classes. With her younger daughter and her daughter’s husband, Ann took her first trip to Mt. Rushmore and the Badlands in South Dakota. She reported that the evening program at Mt. Rushmore was spectacular. In April, she went to Ohio for senior recognition for her older grandson where he was recognized as a senior in his last lacrosse season. He got his degree from Ohio State and has now moved on to Alabama to finish all his final classes before medical school. Donating healthcare for months at a time as he had done unselfishly for years, BYRON MCCORD returned to Malawi in March, but this time he went with his son, Seth. The father became the patient shuffler, and the son the surgeon. They returned through Addis Ababa; Seth went west to Chicago and on to his home in Albuquerque, while Byron went north to Israel and the Bahá’í World Centre in Haifa, which was appropriately timed between the October 7th attack and the 300 warheads launched from Iran on 17 April. Byron took his former Alaskan Bahá’í volunteer friend and his fiancé to break the Ramadan fast at the home of another former Alaskan, born a Palestinian Arab, an Israeli citizen in Haifa, but who taught PE and swimming in Byron’s little town of Soldotna, AK, for over 20 years. For Byron it was such a joy to see such a sweet human after almost 20 years, and to gain other perspectives about feelings and facts. Classmates

know Byron as a unique person who has always followed his heart to do what he felt was best, not only for him but also for humanity, and appreciate his life-long service to others. JOHNNY JOHNSON is still keeping up with SJS having three grandchildren in school there in first, fifth, and seventh grades. He also has three grandchildren in college–two at Vanderbilt (cousins not siblings) and one playing field hockey at Brown. As he’s done the past few years, Johnny spends most of summer on the eastern edge of Nantucket Island in Massachusetts. When in Houston, he continues to have an office to go to and implies it is something his wife, Ann, appreciates.

Coincidentally, CANDY CLARE KNUDSON and husband Tom’s nextdoor neighbor in Houston is Johnny Johnson’s daughter RUTHIE ’95. Candy and Tom spend as much time as they can at their home in Boot Ranch, a few miles north of Fredericksburg, TX. They find the Texas Hill Country to be pretty special and have made some wonderful friends there. Candy continues to make memories with family and friends. She and Tom went to London for a week in May and were able to reconnect with friends from the time when they lived there. While there, they attended The Alpha Global Leadership Conference, which was a fabulous spiritual experience for them. The conference was held at the Royal Albert Hall, opened in 1871 by Queen Victoria, and was sold out with 5,000 attendees from 67 countries. Candy and Tom also had lots of fun with their six grandchildren who are all teenagers now in high school, providing many opportunities to attend their sporting events.

ClassNotes

Candy stays very busy through involvement with her church, a rose club, the Salvation Army, and a literacy guild, and she tries to squeeze in the occasional card game or mahjong, which is difficult as her calendar stays pretty full. DAN WHITMORE spent time teaching his son, Cal, how to drive over the summer so that Dan will no longer have to spend so much time trucking him back and forth to Evanston Township High School. Dan suffered his first-ever sciatica attack, in his back, just as he was sending his son on a trip with his mother to Borneo. Fortunately, Prednisone banished the pain. He was already having some trouble negotiating the steps to the altar and choir chairs in the church where he still sings beautifully, including solos, because of his back.

Lori and Dan just celebrated their sixth anniversary. On the card he gave Lori he misspelled her name, and not for the first time. It’s “Lorilynn,” but he keeps thinking it should be “Lorilyn.” The most fun Dan had this past year was taking the boat tour through the locks at Sault St. Marie. There was some sort of nautical traffic jam, and he ended up just bobbing up and down out on Lake Superior, contemplating a big steel mill on the Canadian side. Dan is still an avid reader, taking war books out of the Wilmette Library. He reported that Margaret MacMillan’s

The War that Ended Peace: The Road to 1914 was very, very impressive. All of Dan’s other offspring, including six grandchildren, are thriving.

As is normal for a lot of us, life has become quite routine for MARTIN KAPLAN. Still living in Tanglewood with his wife, Debi, he fears that his right knee will never recover from a second surgery. Serenity might most accurately describe where NANCY TIPS lives in rural Vermont–remotely, on a hilltop, with no view of neighbors. She reports that her home in Windham is actually in a “community” of about 300 yearround residents and 600 second homes. Being embroiled in town politics at various times over the years, Nancy discovered a few years back that she had a head for satire, and so she writes satirical pieces for various Vermont newspapers, admitting she writes a lot more when she’s really, really mad, as she was recently over politics, corrupt if not actually scary, related to the local teeny tiny school. Classmates should Google “Nancy Tips, Windham,” and then read some of her well-written and insightful articles. Still living in her same townhouse just outside Loop 610 in Houston, ANNE PEDEN TUCKER is enjoying her quiet neighborhood, lined with live oaks, and walking Claudie, her black poodle. Perhaps the most exciting and expensive thing she did this year was to raise her flat roofing with a 3% slope to better shed water to better accommodate Houston’s wet weather events. In the summer, Anne involved herself with lots of fun with what she refers to as Camp Gram, caring for and entertaining her three grandchildren (ages 14, 12, and 11) with working parents and no school. Reflecting 79 years of aging, Anne joined the old folk’s Rx club with blood thinner and anti-rhythmic Rxs.

Since publishing his novel Because They Were Friends, TODD EVANS has been working on a memoir for his family, an effort that was paused for a while because of a load of family events this last year. For Todd, it is a challenging adventure–determining which experiences to tell, from what perspectives, how to keep the writing interesting, and whether to work in new memories. His wife, Dorothy, has been an essential supporter. In the process, Todd and Dorothy discovered letters that Todd’s mom had saved during her life which revealed facts and stories that he had not known. Another challenge is the people whom they might have asked about some of those stories but are no longer alive. Dorothy and Todd spend most of their days together in Atlanta. They eat breakfast out, watch mysteries at night, and hang out with their two children and their families who live in Atlanta. They also travel to visit a son in Chicago, and a son and daughter in Los Angeles and San Francisco. They are also going to a small Presbyterian church nearby and have become friends with one of the pastors and her husband. Todd has been reading Faulkner’s Absalom, Absalom slowly, frequently consulting the book’s study guides, and seeing the legacy of racism in the south and our country at deeper and sadder levels. It is a topic that has been an interest of his for many years. He summed up his report, saying that basically he and Dorothy are healthy, and are enjoying and are being challenged by life.

ClassNotes

ANDY GREENWOOD is working on his 14th novel, the 11th in his Rhett and Toni detective series, which he’s hoping to publish by year’s end. He enjoyed participating in several book club events in Houston where he discussed his writing process and fielded questions from the book club members. Andy still exercises regularly, but his daily walking mileage has dropped to four miles a day, and in the summer, he was sidetracked for a while with severe sciatic and herniated disc issues. He still plays golf once a week, and he also took some ballroom dancing lessons to brush up on his two-step.

He and his wife, Tanya, still enjoy visiting San Angelo, TX, several times a year. While there they enjoy the shopping, the incredibly great restaurants, western art shows, cowboy events like the West Texas team roping championships in June, high school and college sports, and dancing at a local honky-tonk. At the Cactus Book Shop in San Angelo, Andy was turned on to western literature, and over the past few years, he’s read 86 Louis L’Amour novels and 14 of his books containing short stories, as well as 40 novels by San Angelo native, Elmer Kelton, who was named the best western author of all time. When at home, Andy enjoys running errands with Tanya including grocery shopping. He does most of the cooking even though Tanya is far better at that, and he likes doing yard work, including hand-watering potted plants (84 of them) whenever it doesn’t rain for a week. MARGIE BALDWIN ESSE and husband Brent still live in a midrise building apartment just inside Loop 610 in Houston, loving not having to worry about taking care of a house. As she 54

has done for a long time, she volunteers at the local Ronald McDonald House and serves on a Houston Rodeo Committee. She reports being grateful to be able to play tennis twice a week. Margie and Brent went on their longest (three-week) cruise this year from London to Galveston. Other travels included St. Louis, Omaha, Fort Worth, New Jersey, and Connecticut to watch the plays choreographed by their very talented son, Parker. Margie enjoys dinners out with friends and was instrumental in arranging a few mini-SJS reunions in Houston with the likes of ANNE PEDEN TUCKER, JIM GAY, Rosalyn and BARRY MARGOLIS, Tanya and ANDY GREENWOOD, Debi and MARTIN KAPLAN and JOHN WADE HARRIS. Busier than he had perhaps imagined, VAN TALMAGE serves as the town treasurer (part-time) and still has a bunch of business clients (part-time). He calculated that two part-times equal one full-time, and he’ll be happy when that is cut back a bit. He has two new, healthy, and beautiful granddaughters: one in New Jersey and one in Florida. Van’s oldest grandson is a freshman at the University of Vermont and doing well. His two other grandkids are in high school. He’s still living in the gorgeous Green Mountains of Vermont, which he cites as a place a lot cooler than Texas. Van is still running through the woods, although somewhat slower than he used to. If classmates want to see what Van has been thinking these past years, read his well-written and thoughtful essays on Medium.com.

The last couple of years have been interesting times, medically at least, for TOM JACKSON. Over that time span, he’s had a broken arm, a metal splint inserted, a full shoulder replacement, and a hip replacement. Fortunately, he reports finding extraordinary orthopedic surgeons in Ecuador, who had also worked on his wife, Pat, with a knee replacement and a repair of a cracked spine. Tom said he was beginning to feel like a cross between the Six Million Dollar Man and the Johnny Cash song “One Piece at a Time.” He also said that recovery has been easy, and that for an almost octogenarian, his health is good. He and Pat normally see a doctor once or twice a year and believe their good health is a result of the low stress level where they live, along with better eating habits. They still live in Cotacachi, Ecuador and love it there. For those of you with Google Earth, go to 0°16’57”N 78°15’59”W and you can see his house. For those of you who still travel, Tom would recommend visiting Ecuador where one can stand on the Equator and have one foot in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Plus, classmates who visit would get some personalized tours. Tom had a piece of bad news to share with us. He received a note from one of his West Point classmates that GRANT TAYLOR’s wife, Janet, had died. He believed it happened sometime in April. Since she had attended many of our SJS reunions with Grant, Tom thought the Class would like to know. She had also participated in the informal mini-SJS reunions in Houston, and enjoyed visiting with LESLIE SALMON in Virginia by telephone and text.

ClassNotes

LESLIE SEYFRIED SALMON had a strange spring because of badly breaking her arm at Christmas while visiting a child. Two plates and many screws later she was fine again ... and now lots more careful around loose rugs! Because of that she had no trips or fun to report but, in the summer, vowed that was about to change.

Janet and JIM HAMILTON still split their time between their beach home in the Los Angeles area and their desert home near Palm Desert. Golf and traditional music (google Modal Tease String Band) continue to be Jim’s main avocations, though orthopedic setbacks have kept him off the links for most of the past year. He was hoping to rectify that by the end of summer. The Honorable BILL BRYSON and his now-retired wife, Penny, are still living in Bethesda, MD, in the same house they’ve been living in for the past 37 years. Bill is still working full time and enjoying it, although he admitted that he would enjoy the work more if there were a little less of it. In the early summer he had three trials scheduled. Bill reported that the most important event that has happened to him and Penny in the past year was the birth of their second granddaughter in June. He said that it struck him that in all likelihood she will live into the 22nd Century ... “unless, that is, we manage to destroy the planet before then.” Bill and Penny are huge fans of the Italian painter Caravaggio, and a few years ago they embarked on a “bucket list” project of seeing all of his paintings that are on public display at various places in the U.S. and Europe. There are only about 100 that have survived since the early 17th Century, and after a trip to Sicily and Malta this year, they have seen ninety-seven. Wow! Caravaggio was born in the late 1500’s

and is said to have influenced the work of many other famous artists including Paul Reubens and Rembrandt. According to Bill, the rewards of this endeavor for Bill has been the great fun he’s had while learning a lot about Baroque art. When asked what were the most important things he’d done in the past year, Bill responded, “Can’t say that I’ve done anything that would count as ‘important,’ other than trying to treat the people who come before me fairly and with respect.” That explains in part why Bill is such a respected Senior Circuit Judge in the U.S. Court of Appeals. In the summer, DEBORAH LHAMON MACMILLAN went to Washington, D.C., where she attended a national convention of the League of Women Voters. She’s been working on immigration issues with the League for many years, as well as on citizenship and democracy issues generally. At home in New Jersey, Deborah’s celebration of the Fourth of July included reading aloud the entirety of the Declaration of Independence. While doing so, she was struck once again by both the similarities and differences with our own divided political and economic situation today. She wondered whether the Founding Fathers and their families had terrific reunions such as our class had last year, with friendships that crossed the lines of those who supported and opposed their Declaration of Independence. Last year’s Distinguished Alumnus GRANT THOMAS submitted a brief report from his home in Austin. He said he was gratified by the financial contributions to his PALS Program and related adventures in youth empowerment and service, some of

which came from St. John’s alumni, including one of our banjo-playing classmates. Grant recently added Parkinson’s to his roster of ailments and is participating in a “Power for Parkinson’s” support group. He confirmed his wit and clever sense of humor is still intact when he added, “Our theme song is ‘Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On.’”

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1964

ROB MUIR

robmuirphoto@yahoo.com Celebration!!! IRV and Karen TERRELL have a grandson – Oscar is the child of KATY ’07. Are the grandparents excited? Word in the rumor mill is yes, yes, yes! For a glimpse of Oscar and Katy, check out the Class of 2007 Class Notes. BARBARA SHER HERTZ tells us that with three daughters, six grandchildren, and gym time, she remains very active even being retired.

At the 60th reunion it was discovered that CAROL BROWN KELLERMANN and Scott had a youthful parallel experience with this writer. For Judy and ROB MUIR, it was an adventure, and for Carol and Scott it was an epic journey. For the Muirs it was leaving Boston with a three-month-old driving to the Banff School of Fine Arts and living in a borrowed stand-up tent with a two-burner stove kept in the trunk, a rocking chair with two bikes on the roof, and a pretty skirted bassinet on the back seat. They spent four months at a Canadian campground, leaving and returning every two weeks (park rules you know). For Carol and Scott, it was buying a car in Germany, traveling through Sovietcontrolled countries Turkey, Pakistan, 55

ClassNotes

and India with the destination being a hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal–all with a one-year-old. With two and a half years in the glories of the high mountains of Nepal, they had a second child. Biggest problem for both families–diapers. It was fun at WENDY and MAVIS KELSEY’s exchanging tall, but true, tales. SJS is an academic school filled with scholars (at least in the ’60s). So, who is considered one of the most important thinkers with multiple degrees in evolutionary biology since Darwin–our own SARAH BLAFFER HRDY. She just published her sixth book, Father Time: A Natural History of Men and Babies. Any of us, IRV, who are grandfathers should get the reinforcement from Sarah about our male importance in rearing children. Sarah has received strong support in reviews of the tome with her personal insight, extensive examples throughout nature, and scientific and chemical benefits from participatory fatherhood as opposed to an androcentric mindset (look it up). One writer states that she has an acrobatic mind and confirms that, “Human behavior is as culturally varied and flexible as a Cirque du Soleil contortionist.” This writer has read one of her books and got through it in a week. Look up Father Time. Starting with a celebration of life, we end with a celebration of a life well lived. REED MORIAN crossed over the bar (sailor’s term) several months ago, having dealt quietly with his health concerns. He was not one to herald his accomplishments; however, if you read his life story in the newspaper article, they were amazing. He will be missed by a large audience.

CLASS OF

1966

ANN MACNAUGHTON

Ann.MacNaughton@lpl.com DON KAROTKIN

dkarotkin@comcast.net CATHERINE HARRIS COULTER passed away on January 24 last year, more than 20 years after retiring in 2002 from her criminal law practice and shifting to volunteer, she taught at Holy House Academy.

After PATSY HARRIS BAYNE retired from her Dallas-area high school responsibilities, she and husband Harry relocated to Lake Bob Sandlin in East Texas. There they are working toward soft (fall this year) and full (spring next year) openings for their automobile & art museum in the nearby town of Pittsburg. Check it out at https://happyliving.com/ 2023/03/24/120-harry-bayne/. If you ever find yourself in East Texas, Patsy hopes you will drop in, visit, and check out the museum. The other loves of Patsy’s life are sons Brett and Blake, a lawyer and a chef respectively, and their children. Blake is nearby, so Patsy and Harry get to see Bentley frequently. Brett is in South Carolina, so it takes a little longer to visit Molly, Lucy, and Annie. After more than 30 years of successful management consulting, LANNY GOODMAN suffered a minor stroke in 2013 that left him unable to race through airports to catch the next flight for the next client meeting. He went to work for wife Christine Goodman’s Whole Woman consultancy (wholewoman.com) as a medical researcher (in the library, not the lab). Alan said that supporting Christine’s work, which has kept thousands of women out of the operating room for

common women’s health conditions for which she has discovered and developed natural, non-medical alternatives, was gratifying. His focus now is on migrating the body of work he created for designing companies that largely run themselves from an in-person consulting to a digital model (lannygoodman.com). After retiring in 2015 after 43 years teaching and conducting research in Environmental Studies and Natural Resources at the University of Vermont https://www.uvm.edu/ rsenr/profile/thomas-hudspeth, TOM HUDSPETH founded and remains involved with the Greater Burlington Sustainability Education Network (http://www.gbsen.org). Immersed in climate change communication, education, and activism, he serves as a trainer/mentor for Climate Reality Project (www.climaterealityproject.org/). The organization was founded by Al Gore in 2006 after his book and documentary An Inconvenient Truth were published that year to educate people about already-then-discernible climate change risks. He’s also involved in climate and democracy activities with Third Act (https://thirdact.org/), founded by writer and activist Bill McKibben. As a master gardener, he planted his own pollinator gardens and rain gardens, and he helps other people do the same. His two daughters are both married and live in Burlington, each with a son and a daughter. He and Ginny greatly enjoy spending time with them all.

ClassNotes

JOHN VENNEMA and wife Alexandra are still headquartered in New York City and spend a lot of time in the Hamptons where there is an excellent boxing program designed for those with Parkinson’s, called Rock Steady Boxing. John recommends it unreservedly. He says he’s no Rocky Balboa, but the exercise and camaraderie keep him on his toes. He’s still golfing and getting around on his own, but retired from his acting career just when those delicious old man parts were within his grasp. He and Alexandra were glad to watch the recent eclipse with Ricky and Elizabeth and family in the Texas Hill Country, which included a stop at the Luling City Market, an idyll he says still is not to be missed. His biggest news is their recent adoption of a chocolate lab puppy. No respecter of naps, that puppy! DON KAROTKIN closed his law practice and retired in December 2022. He and his wife, Kathy, spend their time remodeling their downsized new-home-

CLASS OF

to-be and keeping up with son John, daughter Emily, and three grandsons. BRENT MILLER recently retired after 30 years working in health policy, relocating with his wife, Daphne, from Northern Virginia to Santa Fe, NM.

creative community in the heart of Houston’s historic First Ward and Arts District. Baby James, their new cocker spaniel, provides plenty of unanticipated distractions.

DREW ROBINS is still operating his small business and still working sixday weeks. Five years ago, he married Edna, a wonderful woman, and is living happily ever after. ANN MACNAUGHTON retired from Merrill Lynch Bank of America River Oaks Branch in December 2019 to open MacNaughton & Associates LLC around the corner — across West Alabama Street from the SJS soccer field — just before the pandemic began to unfold. She stays busy expanding M&A. Husband Geoffrey Brune, still Professor of Architecture & Design at the University of Houston, just moved his photography studio to Sawyer Yards, an internationally recognized

ANN MACNAUGHTON’s first meeting with their new cocker spaniel, James

1967

JOHN DRYE

jldarch@aol.com JOHN DRYE submitted this photo of Class of ’67 classmates who gathered to celebrate their 57th Reunion at Goode Company BBQ over Reunion Weekend on Saturday, April 13.

Sad news to report ... classmate JIMMIE LEE GOODRICH GROSSMAN died last year on August 25, 2023. Jimmie Lee was living in Austin at the time of her passing.

REUNION Standing (l-r): Tom Press, GAIL WANDEL HENDRYX, PENNY HORTON STAUTBERG, TALBOT COOLEY, POLLY HUTCHESON, JOHN DRYE, BARBARA POWELL, ANN BOYLSTON FARNELL, STEPHEN COFFEE, ARDIS EICHHORN, CHARLES PEISSEL, Mike Hendryx Seated (l-r): BARBARA BATES PRESS, SUSIE BRELSFORD 57

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

1968

JULIE WILLIAMS ITZ

jwiemail@aol.com This year our report for the Class of ’68 is a sad one. DIANE HERRING passed away on September 19, 2023, in Houston. Diane entered SJS in 6th grade and she quickly became known for her singing talent. Beginning as Estelle Anderson, RN, a singing and dancing nurse in the Chidsey/Kevan Shortcake production of Mr. Moon, and singing in the Middle School Choir and Chorus at the 1963 dedication of the Fine Arts Center (aka Hoodwink), Diane went on to star as Catharine Villars in Sail Ho, Princess Yaolack in The King and I, Pitti-Sing in The Mikado, and Tuptim in the production of Scrap Book. Diane regularly sang solos and duets during Chapel services throughout her Upper School years. After graduating from Pitzer College and obtaining her MSW from the University of California, Berkeley, Diane enjoyed a career as an editor of corporate publications. A gifted writer, Diane spoke with great respect and admiration for her SJS English teachers and mentors, Mr. Bob Moore and Mr. Jim Richardson. Her love of singing continued as a member of the Houston Masterworks Chorus. A memorial service was held in Houston on October 10, 2023. Diane is survived by her five nieces, sisters-in-law, cousins, and many friends. GINNY ELVERSON WELCH passed away on May 3, 2024. Ginny attended SJS for 7th – 9th grades and always enjoyed seeing former classmates at our Reunions. After graduating from Florida Southern University, Ginny returned to Houston where she worked in residential real estate with 58

her father, Robin Elverson. After her marriage in 1979 to Pat Welch, and following moves to Moab, UT, and Austin, TX, she and Pat made a final move to the farmhouse near Round Top, TX, that her parents had purchased in 1967. Paper City interviewed Ginny about the farmhouse and how her family had discovered and then preserved it. (https://roundtop.com/ real-estate/walnut-hill-farm-burtontexas-elverson-welch-pioneer-times/) In 2017 Ginny and JULIE WILLIAMS ITZ encouraged each other to take the Texas Master Naturalist course together, joining the Gideon Lincecum Chapter which covers the five-county area of Austin, Colorado, Fayette, Lee, and Washington. Ginny’s skills as a professional landscaper were then directed toward developing and maintaining the Chapter’s garden and nature trail at Winedale Historic Site, just up the road from Ginny’s farm. A celebration of Ginny’s life was held on May 9, 2024, in Round Top, TX. She is survived by two daughters, Virginia Welch of Charlotte, NC, and Elizabeth “Lizzy” Welch of Round Top, TX, and by her brother, DEVITT ELVERSON ’73 of Breezy Point, NY.

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1969

REUNION Over Reunion Weekend, the Class of ’69 celebrated its “double nickels” (55th) anniversary with parties on Friday, Saturday, and a farewell brunch on Sunday. Spearheading the effort was ROBIN FRENCH, with support from MISSY WESTON CAMPBELL, GORDON DEES, PAT PRIOR SORRELLS and DEBBY WANDEL FRANCIS. It was a spectacular April weekend, and all in attendance enjoyed getting together once again. The Friday kickoff was at JAY JONES’s house.

JOHN YOW, Barbie Schaffer, JAY JONES, LILA MCCALL

MISSY WESTON CAMPBELL

missywcampbell@gmail.com JAY JONES

jhjones713@gmail.com DIANA EISNER married Samuel Lee Pope in June 2022. Both are retired and loving it. Sam is learning to be a pilot; Diana is using a flight simulator to learn how to land in case things go south. They met swing dancing; Diana has also studied belly dancing. She’s looking forward to the next gathering. Let’s hope she brings Sam.

LIGE SANDLIN and ROBIN BRADLEY BAKER

Amy Sandlin, Anne French,

MISSY WESTON CAMPBELL, ROBIN FRENCH

POLLY SHOUSE and PAT PRIOR SORRELLS

DEBBY WANDEL FRANCIS, HOWARD KEENAN, GORDON DEES, MISSY WESTON CAMPBELL

The good times continued Saturday evening at the beautiful home of Barbie and DON SCHAFFER.

Jenine and Dan Alig with

DON and Barbie SCHAFFER

Susan Luskey and JOHN CRAWFORD

Bridget and SCOTT HOWARD with Debbie Day

Reunion Weekend concluded with brunch at Goode Company Taqueria on Sunday morning.

DIANA EISNER, DEBBY WANDEL FRANCIS and Shelby Bryan

ROBIN BRADLEY BAKER, JAY JONES, MISSY WESTON CAMPBELL, HOWARD KEENAN, DEBBY WANDEL FRANCIS, MARTHA DAVIS, and BILL MILLER Browne Baker, JOHN YOW, CHARLES CLEVELAND and STEPHAN WEXLER

We missed our classmates who were unable to join us, and we hope to see them for our 60th! 59

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

1973

TOM PEDEN

tbottspeden@gmail.com

ROBERT with grandson Charles Riddell Flick on Memorial Day

ROBERT BLAND and wife LOUISE RIDDELL BLAND ’75 are enjoying their first grandbaby! Charles is the son of ALLISON BLAND FLICK ’07 and her husband, Bryan.

ROBERT CLAIBORNE and wife Gwyn

ROBERT CLAIBORNE and wife Gwyn enjoyed a ten-day river cruise down the Rhone River in France in early June. They ate well and enjoyed some lovely wines throughout their sojourn. In Aix they stumbled upon a local D-Day celebration festooned with French and American flags near a memorial for locals in the resistance who were killed in the war.

FIELDING COCKE and his wife, Meredith, joined their fellow Regents & Trustees of The George Washington Foundation in Fredericksburg, VA, for their annual meeting. One highlight was a visit to The George Washington Masonic National Memorial. They wrapped up the year with a trip to the birthplace of the blues, the Mississippi Delta. At the same time, their son Alexander and his wife, Alicia, were enjoying the sun in Key West. DEVITT ELVERSON recently returned to Washington state where he met up with a group of friends and rented some cabins in the mountains about an hour and a half out of Seattle. The setting was beautiful with snowcapped mountains, lots of wildlife, morel hunting, and a great group of people. The group is called Aloysius and was started at Brown University in 1973. They’ve been meeting yearly for 52 years and only missed one year during Covid. This has been the highlight of his year for many years, and Devitt considers himself extremely lucky to be a part of this group. REBECCA HERZFELD and husband Gordon went to Portugal with friends last year and really enjoyed it. It was the first international trip they’ve taken since the pandemic started. This spring they went to California to see family and friends and to New York City in May to see their older son, Nathan, who lives in Brooklyn. In August, they will have a family gathering at a house they are renting on the Oregon Coast. Rebecca is enjoying family genealogy research, gardening, and volunteering for the Friends of the Seattle Public Library.

AMY MAISLIN MITCHELL and husband Steve are enjoying being first time grandparents! Their grandson, Theo, was born on August 26, 2023, which is Steve’s birthday. Amy is continuing to work full time and is playing a lot of tennis. Three of their four children now live in Denver, so a move at least part-time to the Denver area may be in the future. JOHN MONTGOMERY is still enjoying investments and foundation work at Bridgeway, which is celebrating 31 years this summer. He recently returned from his annual tradition of running a half-marathon with his youngest daughter and visiting her three children in London. They call this the “happy chaos” family, and they are SO much fun with a steady diet of tennis, music, horseback riding, books, and tutoring. JOHN NICKELSEN’s son Trey moved to LA last year in order to pursue his dream of breaking into the music business. His son Garrett and his band, The Maine, are still writing and performing music around the world. This is their 16th year together, and they are starting another US tour in July, then moving on to Australia and Southeast Asia in September. The company John works for convinced him to stay on for a couple more years. John and his wife, Carol, drive to CA to get out of the AZ heat for a while each summer, and they are enjoying cruising. Their next cruise will be leaving out of England for Ireland and Iceland, and next year they will be cruising to the Galapagos Islands. TOM PEDEN and wife Margaret’s granddaughter, Minnie, is now twoand-a-half years old, and she was joined in February by her new little brother, Thomas Peden! His son, Jack,

ClassNotes

and his wife, SJ, are delighted to welcome their new son to their home in Austin. Their daughter, Alice, continues to provide physical therapy to patients at MD Anderson. Margaret and Tom have three trips tentatively planned–a few days in Galveston, a visit to New Orleans for music and great food, and finally a more serious trip to visit old friends in the Pacific Northwest. Tom has retired after 41 years of teaching English at Kinkaid! TREVOR VIETOR and wife Paige are enjoying their two grandchildren, having their son and daughter-in-law just two miles away, and he works three days a week at the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour for beer money! And, after a three-year hiatus (originally caused by rotator cuff surgery), Trevor is back as Santa for the annual Pooh Corner Christmas show, so he’s back in Houston at least once a year. COLLIE WEINER and Patti are spending summers at 7,710 ft the Rockies again, simply letting the world spin. Collie keeps finding lots more oil, now no one wants it anymore. Now it’s evil to produce, yet still a pleasure to use. Go figure? The kids keep getting new degrees and new jobs. They are little tops spinning off on their own precessions. The world is starting to make sense to me as it drifts selectively into chaos. Paddle faster, pedal harder, or float along. It’s a trip! Collie notes his SJS teachers were the best teachers a man could ever have asked for.

CLASS OF

1974

BRUCE CRAWFORD

Bruce.Crawford@RaymondJames.com TOM LYKOS

tomlykos@aol.com

REUNION

Class of 1974 classmates

BRUCE CRAWFORD, TOM LYKOS, TED COOPER, and JOHN BRYAN enjoying Spring Fling

ALAN COWLES ’60 and JIM BUTLER

Classmate JIM BUTLER reported that recently “Yun and I went to a Chinese New Year party put on by one of her friends. We’ve been going to this party for the last decade or more. One of the years, I got to talking to a guy there, and it turned out that he grew up in Houston and graduated from SJS way before I started. We had talked about taking a photo and finally decided to do so. I’ve attached a photo of ALAN COWLES ’60 and me. His class had 40 or so students, so he was amazed to learn that classes are now up to 175 students. As you might imagine, he had lots of stories of Salls, Chidsey, and Fairweather. Anyway, I thought this might be a photo for inclusion in the alumni news.”

KRESS WILLIAMS and wife Vanessa spent two weeks volunteering in Israel in May. I have never been to a country where everyone thanked me for coming. I have never been to a country at war, and only once did we have to shelter during an Iron Dome intercept. Classmates MIKE FREEDMAN, GAYLORD GLASGOW LUMMIS, and GEORGE RODGERS at the Class of 1974’s 50th Reunion

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CLASS OF

1975

Tulsa and is now enjoying desert sunsets nightly.

DIANE BATEMAN BIEGEL

diane@dianebiegel.com DIANE BATEMAN BIEGEL and husband Steve moved from Houston to New Braunfels in the fall of 2023.

Sad news to report that SANDRA SKIPWITH BOWEN passed away on February 21, 2024.

CLASS OF

1976

CAROLINE WILLIAMS HASSELL

LISA LEE QUENON reports that she’s living in Kerrville with her 90-year-old mom (you Piglets from Pooh Corner remember her as Jackie Lee!). “I’m loving Kerrville and the semi-retired life! Just making sure Mom gets to her bridge games on time! ELIZABETH DODD LEWIS and I get together for lunch as often as possible.” DANA FORD STEWART and her husband, Craig, are still harvesting lavender and running a B&B at their Lavande Farms in the Santa Ynez Valley in central California, and they have a new puppy!

Captain Louis Antoine Andry of Galvez’s Spanish Army. Capt. Andry died at the hands of Karankawa Indians in Matagorda Bay while he was mapping the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast for Governor Galvez. I love that the work Eileen did in 1977 at St. John’s continues to have a life in a new marker in Indianola.” As for those overachievers, AMES SMITH is still practicing medicine, having relocated his breast surgical and hereditary cancer risk practice to Boise, Idaho! “Boise is a beautiful city and Idaho is a gem state, perfect for anyone who loves nature and the outdoors.”

carolinehassell98@gmail.com Starting this update with the sad news of the passing of one of our lifers, JOHN MARTIN. Sadly, he died completely unexpectedly in January shortly after his retirement from a 40-year medical practice in Dallas. He was looking forward to retirement in Costa Rica. John was a talented pianist, having spent a year at Juilliard before entering medical school at UT-San Antonio. His passing prompted so many fond memories of his talent, kindness, and humor. I was reminded during the class exchange after John’s passing that this is the year that all of our class is now officially on Medicaid! (Long may it last!) Consequently, I was expecting to hear lots of “retirement” news. Maybe y’all already retired, or you’re all just over-achievers and are still working. DAVID LAUFMAN did in fact retire in March and plans to spend time with his wife, Judy, traveling and spending time with their grandchildren in Nashville. CISSY SMITH CURTIS hung up her baton on New Year’s Eve 2023 to retire to Santa Fe with her husband; she had been conducting numerous choirs in 62

Closer to home, ANNIE VIVE CRAIN PALM and her husband, Tomas, are enjoying semi-retirement while managing three short-term rentals (come visit, Annie Vive says!). For her 2024 gift, she got a new hip and is working her way back onto the golf course.

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1977

See the Class of 1976 Notes for a report on EILEEN KENNEDY SALING.

CLASS OF

1978

LE MELCHER

leroy3@gmail.com BETSY SKIPWITH CLEMONS reported that she and RISHER RANDALL hiked the Via Alpina last summer!

EILEEN KENNEDY SALING ’77 and CAROLINE WILLIAMS HASSELL with Color Guard from the Sons of the American Revolution at the marker for Capt. Andry

CAROLINE WILLIAMS HASSELL reports: "I was able to complete a multi-year project in February with the placement of a new Texas Historic Marker in Indianola, TX, via my DAR Chapter. This was all done thanks to EILEEN KENNEDY SALING ’77’s senior AP History paper on her French ancestor

BESTY SKIPWITH CLEMONS and RISHER RANDALL at Via Alpina

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

1979

LARRY MORRIS

texas@netropolis.net

REUNION

Class of 1979 Reunion at Armando’s L to r: BROCK HUDSON, GAY GOODWIN WICKHAM, Jim and SOLACE KIRKLAND SOUTHWICK, Sue and KEN MURPHY, SUSAN GROSS REEDY, MARIAN WALLACE BRISCOE and BRIAN ’80, LAURA MORRIS WALLS, GORDON ARNOLD, Margaret Scott, Amy and ADAM NEWAR, JOHN WRIGHT, and JOHN WALLACE

Class of 1979 Reunion at Bayou Club

Class of 1979 Reunion at Armando’s

L to r: DAVID GUNN, HELEN COOLEY FRASER, JONATHAN SCHOOLAR, SUSAN GROSS REEDY, JOHN WALLACE, LAURA MORRIS WALLS, JOHN WRIGHT, GAY GOODWIN WICKHAM, and CHARLIE NEUHAUS

RICHIE MERCADO, JONATHAN SCHOOLAR, Brenda Mercado, and BRAD HOWELL

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CLASS OF

1981

MARK WORSCHEH

mworscheh@aquinasco.com

Classmates meeting up in Kyoto, Japan, where JULIE DONOHO and her daughter, Jessica, shared a Christmas Eve dinner with BENJAMIN BROCHSTEIN.

BROCK HUDSON’s daughter Margaret is attending Texas A&M and loving it. She is having a great experience while studying business. Brock proudly displays an A&M (Aggie Dad) sticker on his car! DAVID MARKWARDT just published his book, Poetry Tables: How to Create

Now heading up all of U.S. commercial real estate for industry heavyweight TD Bank is our own HUGH ALLEN, capping off a stellar 30-year banking career that’s taken him to NYC, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., Raleigh and now Charlotte. His son works in hotel management, and his daughter is seeking advanced degrees in psychology after graduating Phi Beta Kappa from Spelman. “I love it in Charlotte…it so reminds me of Houston back in the day,” says Hugh. He reports that he’s seen ELLEN PEYTON GLAESSNER, who heads Corporate Citizenship for TD Bank (and formerly general counsel), along with fellow Charlotte resident TREY SHERIDAN, from time to time.

Profound Experiences of Courage, Connection, and Community Using Poetry. Poetry Tables is not a poetry book, but is about a process that uses poetry as a catalyst to create profound experiences of courage, connection, and community. The book is targeted at facilitators, trainers, therapists, and teachers who are open to learning a novel way of opening up individuals and groups and connecting people. The intention is for interested educators, change agents, and interventionists to understand the process, be intrigued enough to want to try it for their team or class, and then either want to sponsor a Poetry Table or facilitate one themselves. David’s book is available on Amazon.

In H-Town, DARRYL MAZOW moved firms, now practicing with regional law firm Shackelford, McKinley & Norton. When he’s not doing deals, he’s enjoying his beach house in Sargent, near Matagorda Island. Fortunately, the house escaped major damage from Beryl, but Sargent wasn’t as lucky. Darryl moved back to Texas from SoCal in April 2020. Helping on the education front is MARCELLA DAWSON WATKINS, just completing a stint as Board Chair of the Chinquapin Preparatory School, an SJS-style college prep school serving students from under-resourced communities. She’s looking for additional board members with a passion for education, so if you’re interested, please reach out to her. As you know, these printed updates are now annual, so for interim news go to the SJS Class of 1981 Facebook group.

CLASS OF

HUGH ALLEN was named Head of Commercial Real Estate for TD Bank in November 2023

Over in Winston-Salem, TOM WILBY updates that his son Taylor had a second child and is moving to NYC, son James is moving to Myrtle Beach, and daughter Cate is post-grad studying to be a physician assistant at Mercer in Atlanta.

1982

Continuing in his role as CEO of Balcara Group, PAUL DAVEY and his team build single-family rental communities. Their most recent development opened early in 2024 in Rosharon, just south of Houston, and was profiled in the Houston Chronicle on January 23, 2024.

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

graduating from Dartmouth the following morning (and heading to NYU for medical school). They were lucky enough to be in Hanover the following weekend as well to spend time with WALTER and his family for Kevin and Walter’s 30th reunion (and Father’s Day!).

1987

KANUDE (aka CHRIS KNUDSON) was invited to perform during SXSW in Austin, promoting his latest single “Catch One and All.” He also performed as a trio at Austin’s renowned Saxon Pub for the first time in nearly a decade and two shows at the San Jac Saloon on 6th Street. He is currently based in Nashville, TN.

CLASS OF

KATHERINE PANNILL CENTER sold out readings of her new book The RomCommers all over the state of Texas and beyond. Be sure to grab a copy of this latest New York Times best-seller by our very own best-selling author!

1990

HAISE ROE BORGMANN

haiserb@me.com KIMBALL JOHNSON MORINIERE

kimballmo@gmail.com

UR ATE FOR O 025! D E H T E V SA 25-26, 2 ion: April n u e R th there! 5 3 ee you all Hope to s

STUART ROSENBERG’s firm, Public Content, “is celebrating five years and has grown to a staff of nearly 40 that supports services spanning from media relations and social media management to destination marketing and influencer engagement. Last month, I was named to Houston Modern Luxury magazine’s Power List. Our summer intern program welcomed JULIE RINGOLD PRICE’s daughter, LINDSEY ’21, this season.” OLIVER PENNINGTON wrote with news fresh from the US Olympic Trials pool deck in Indianapolis in June: “Caroline just finished 14th at Olympic trials in the 1500!” Oliver is enjoying being in Austin and seeing PAT PACE and WALTER WUKASCH as well as many other SJS and Vanderbilt friends.

BERNARD PARKER and his family during the Christmas holidays: Fallon, Drew, Amara, Danielle, Bernard

BERNARD PARKER sent “Greetings from Cali. We’ve now been in San Diego for nine years, following a six-year stint in Europe (four in Munich, two in Geneva). Amara spent this past spring semester abroad in Paris and is interning in New York this summer while preparing for her senior year at Brown. Drew completed her freshman year at Cornell, where she’s in the undergraduate school of business and is a member of the women’s lacrosse team. Fallon just entered the teens and is enjoying the summer before her last year of middle school. And Danielle and I are savoring these last few years before the empty nest stage. Truly can’t believe how time flies!”

MICKEY NGUYEN recently had a work trip that brought her to Santa Barbara, CA, where she met up with JENNIFER KING. They spent a fun afternoon catching up and sharing parenting stories about their similarlyaged kids. Mickey also keeps in touch with SHARON KIM, who stays equally as busy with her teens. SARAH CHEAVENS SARNELLI wrote to say that “In 2021, my husband and I moved from Houston to the Austin area to be near my parents, who moved from Houston in 2018 to be near my sister and eldest brother. Just before the pandemic (practically DAYS before lockdown), my husband and I closed on a lot on a working ranch about 70 miles NW of Austin with the idea of retiring there someday. We moved up our plans and started construction on a house practically the moment we came to Central Texas, and we have now been here on our hilltop overlooking the Texas Hill Country since November 2023. It’s wonderful! Come visit us next time you find yourself in Central Texas!”

HAISE ROE BORGMANN had back-toback graduations in June, with son Leighton graduating from St. Albans School in DC (and heading to Georgetown) and daughter Avery 65

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

1992

BA NGUYEN

banguyen@comcast.net

David, DAWSON ’24, RINA, and LANEY CHANG ’21 outside Flores Hall following the SJS Class of 2024 Commencement ceremony.

SCOTT DODSON with his client Stuart Harrow

In May, RINA WONG CHANG finished a 10-year stint as an SJS parent with the graduation of her youngest, DAWSON ’24, from the storied cloisters. Dawson will be attending Tufts University in the fall and plans to double major in International Relations and Economics.

LISA NEUBERGER FERNANDEZ (left) and CHRISTINA LING on a hike in Madrid

LISA NEUBERGER FERNANDEZ is on the move again, this time to Madrid. CHRISTINA LING “had a chance to visit Lisa in Madrid on May 18 on my way to a work conference. We spent a great day hiking, eating, and catching up!” Lisa adds, “What a fabulously fun day together. Please let everyone know that it’s an open invitation for classmates to join us for sangria in Madrid. Gracias!!” 66

SCOTT DODSON reports: “I recently appeared before the U.S. Supreme Court as counsel of record for the petitioner in Harrow v. Department of Defense. The Court unanimously ruled in my client’s favor in May. That case was pro bono, so I still have my day job as a tenured professor at University of California Law, San Francisco.” Some more detail about Scott’s case: Scott’s client was Stuart Harrow, a 73-year-old employee of the Department of Defense who in 2013 was furloughed for six days due to cuts to the federal budget. Harrow applied for an exemption to the furlough due to financial hardship. It took the DOD more than seven years to rule on Harrow’s request before denying it. That denial triggered a 60-day window in which Harrow could appeal the ruling, but the DOD sent the decision to Harrow’s old email address, resulting in his not receiving the notice until after the 60-day appeals window had closed. In 2023, the Federal Circuit ruled that the missed deadline, regardless of the reason,

ClassNotes

precluded the court’s adjudication of the case. Harrow, who up to this point had represented himself, then made his wisest decision: he went to the Center for Litigation and Courts at UCSF, which was run by Scott, to get help. Scott took the case, wrote the briefs, and the result was a 9-0 holding from the Supreme Court that the 60day limit was not jurisdictional, thus vindicating Harrow after 13 long years. Scott also writes: “In other news, my son, Asher, will be matriculating at Rice this fall to pursue a B.S. in mechanical engineering.”

CLASS OF

1993

1995

JESSICA BAKER CROYLE

RUTHIE JOHNSON MILLER

jbakercroyle@yahoo.com

ruthiejmiller@gmail.com

EMILY WANG, SJS’s 2024 Distinguished Alumna, connected with newly appointed Alumni Board member LEA WILLIAMS ’02 at a Yale program. Afterwards they had a nice dinner together at New Haven’s Harvest Restaurant.

DOUG CROSS reports that after 15 years as the General Manager for Zegna in Houston, he has recently started a new position as General Manager of Star Furniture Showroom and Design Center. Congratulations, Doug! LARA NAAMAN reports that her cat, whose name is His Royal Highness Prince George of Brooklyn, has finally passed 10,000 followers on Instagram. If you’re interested in being among them, go ahead and follow @princegeorgeofbrooklyn. [I just looked this up, and it’s real. More importantly, this cat has a lot to teach us. A lot.]

CLASS OF

JOSH SCHAFFER and VICTOR YOUNG with their families in Dallas

LEA WILLIAMS ’02 and EMILY WANG ’93 in New Haven

VICTOR YOUNG and JOSH SCHAFFER happened to be in Dallas on the same weekend last spring, so of course, they got the families together for an Update photo. Thanks, guys – always appreciated!

WENBI LAI HIRAKAWA and NICK BARNARD had a nice catch-up at their Cornell reunion this year

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CLASS OF

1996

MINDY MCGEHEE RISEDEN

mriseden@craincaton.com

Top: CRISTINA DE LA TORRE COX Summer in Alaska Bottom: With her family in Alaska

Fellow ’96ers LAUREN PASTOREK, COURTNEY BRAGG CHLEBUS, ANGELA DONARUMA, KATIA BAIZAN, MELISSA DEMONTROND and JENNIFER WESTERFIELD PALMER ’98 – smiling after the Alumni Choir performance.

MELISSA DEMONTROND reports that she and fellow ’96ers (and an alumna from the Class of 1998) pictured above all had a wonderful time participating in the Alumni Celebration of Song performance during Reunion Weekend. CRISTINA DE LA TORRE COX and her family have been living in Anchorage, AK, for three full years now. The family is loving it, even after a winter with more than 100 inches of snow. They report plenty of skiing, skating, sledding, and ice fishing, all of which helps to combat the dark days of winter. From their home they can see moose, bear, porcupines, bald eagles, and sometimes even the Northern Lights. Cristina says she has learned how to cook moose meat and bear bacon; on clear days she can see Denali as she drives to Costco. And while they definitely love it up there, she says they do occasionally miss HEB, Whataburger, and Blue Bell.

MINDY MCGEHEE RISEDEN reports that TERESA CHIN BRADY was recently promoted to the Head of Litigation Operations and Managing Attorney, Legal and Compliance at Morgan Stanley. Go Teresa! JULIE WAREING ALDRICH with husband

Rabbi SALEM PEARCE is now living in Jackson, MS, as the Director of Spirituality at the Institute of Southern Jewish Life. During her itinerant life as the traveling rabbi of the South, she recently found time to connect with the Rev. GATES ELLIOTT ’92, Associate Rector at St. James’ Episcopal Church in Jackson, and spoke at his church as part of an adult education series on world religions.

Griff and their children, Scott, Ford, and Laura Lee.

JULIE WAREING ALDRICH and husband Griff Aldrich live in Farmville, VA, where Griff is the head men’s basketball coach at Longwood University. This past season the Longwood Lancers reached the NCAA tournament for the 2nd time in school history (previously in 2022).

ClassNotes

Their children, Scott (13), Ford (12), and Laura Lee (9) loved being a part of March Madness as they traveled with the team to Memphis to take on number one-seeded University of Houston. All that cheerleading experience at SJS has come in handy for Julie in supporting the team courtside :). In addition to being team mom, Julie serves on the board of the Fuqua School where their children attend and volunteers for the Virginia Children’s Book Festival. She also serves on the Hall Council of Wycliffe Hall at Oxford University, the college where she received her theology degree in 2010.

JAMIE ADAMS with wife Kate and their three girls in NY

JAMIE ADAMS, his wife Kate, and their three girls have settled into life in New York City, completing their first full year there. Kate is loving her new role as Head of School at Convent of the Sacred Heart, and the girls are loving being there as well. Jamie is spending his spare time making short films exploring New York. He is posting those to YouTube on the channel “Up To The East Side.” The Beatles cover band Beetle, with PAUL BEEBE and

Jamie, still has reunion shows a few times a year, whenever Jamie comes back to Houston for visits.

CLASS OF

2002

ALICIA BLACKBURN SUMMERS

alicia.b.summers@gmail.com ASHLEE VANCE’s new film Wild, Wild Space premiered on HBO on July 17th and was based off his latest bestselling book When the Heavens Went on Sale. If you have not had a chance to watch it, you should check it out!

CLASS OF

2000

NEELIMA GONUGUNTLA recently joined Dallas Venture Capital as its Chief Operating Officer/Operating Partner. She was also invited to serve on the Dallas County District Attorney’s inaugural Advisory Council. She continues to remain active in the Dallas/Fort Worth community.

CHRISTINE ATTIA

cattia2@gmail.com

Rohit Eipe, Amar’e Eipe-Smith,

LEA WILLIAMS ’02 and EMILY WANG ’93

MAYA ANGELA SMITH, and HELEN CHOU

in New Haven

MAYA ANGELA SMITH has been promoted to full professor in the French and Italian Studies department at the University of Washington and is about to enter her third year as Associate Dean in the College of Arts and Sciences. Her second book

LEA WILLIAMS connected with EMILY WANG ’93, SJS’s 2024 Distinguished Alumna, at a Yale program. Afterwards they had a nice dinner together at New Haven’s Harvest Restaurant.

Reclaiming Venus: The Many Lives of Alvenia Bridges will be published this October. The highlight of the year, however, was traveling with her family and HELEN CHOU in April to see the total solar eclipse in Sulphur Springs, TX.

ClassNotes

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2004

COURTNEY BLACKBURN JEFFREY

courtbjeffrey@gmail.com

ROXIE MAISEL completed and will be releasing two short films: Nice Package (a horror romcom) and The Alien Invasion of Times Square (a screwball sci-fi comedy). She wrote, directed, starred in, and scored both films as part of her MFA in Film PostProduction at the Feirstein Graduate School of Cinema, Brooklyn College. She looks forward to working as an editor for film and television!

CLASS OF

2005

NISHA GADGIL

LAUREN FONDREN moved back to Houston in November 2023 with her husband, Derek Kelly, and their baby, Baer FondrenKelly (born November 2022!), when Derek got a job with the Harris County Democrats. Lauren got her MFA in film (writing + directing) from Columbia in 2022, and since then has been working in film production in NYC, and now in Houston! They’re living in Montrose and having a blast, though at the time of this writing they have yet to endure a Houston summer. Welcome back!

gadgil.nisha@gmail.com JORDAN SCHMIDT SHAUGHNESSY BRADLEY, Erin, Blake, and Lily EISEMANN

jordansjs2005@gmail.com

BRADLEY EISEMANN and his wife Erin welcomed Blake Daniel Eisemann to the world on December 13, 2023. Blake joins big sister Lily, and the family of four is doing well and residing in Houston. EMILY POWNALL GARDNER, husband Tanner, and their three kids have moved to Southern California this summer as he has accepted a role as the Director of Athletics at Pepperdine University. They are sad to leave dear friends and family but excited for the adventure! CARY GODSHALL PRATKA writes that she and her husband, Andrew, welcomed their son, Nathan James Pratka on October 13, 2023.

GENYA FRENKEL Family

MARY KEY with husband Tucker and new baby Maeve

MARY KEY and her husband, Tucker Witsil, welcomed their daughter, Maeve Mozelle Witsil on November 20, 2023. They live in Chapel Hill, NC, and both work in medical research/software development. They welcome all to please get in touch if you’re ever in the area!

GENYA FRENKEL is living in Boston with his wife, Dunia Abdul-Aziz, and three children ages 5, 3, and 1. He is conducting basic research on mitochondrial biology as a senior scientist at the Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry (IOCB) Boston. His wife is an ENT attending and researcher at Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary. KATIE FRENCH has been living in LA, working as a film and TV writer. She celebrated nine years with her husband this year.

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CLASS OF

2006

DEETS HOFFMAN

deetshoffman@gmail.com

First day of school for JORDAN and her kids!

SAM TAVAKOLI and his wife, Belí, at their wedding

SAM TAVAKOLI married Belí Ponce in San Antonio earlier this year. He will complete his fellowship in Skull Base Neurosurgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee and will be moving to Colorado Springs to start his first job as staff neurosurgeon in September.

JORDAN SCHMIDT SHAUGHNESSY still lives in Austin, with her husband and three children. Last fall, she went back to teaching after a six-year hiatus as a SAHM. Jordan teaches fifth grade history at Trinity Episcopal School, where her three children also attend. Liam is a rising third grader, Kathleen a rising first grader, and Morgan is in her last year of preschool.

WILL MORIARTY is currently in Providence, RI, slated to graduate from New England Law (Boston) in May 2025 and plans to move back to Texas in early 2025 to take the Texas bar. AVANI GUPTA NARANG was elected to the Greater Houston Community Foundation’s Governing Board in February 2024 and is excited to serve as Next Gen Representative. She was also recently selected to serve on the CRA Market Council Advisory Board with First Horizon Bank and looks forward to finding ways to uplift the greater Houston community.

Poppy Mabry

LYDIA BRANTLEY MABRY and husband Hays welcomed their daughter, Poppy, and she’s perfect.

Carson Lewellen

CAROLINE is the boss!

CAROLINE GALLAY MAY recently left her agency job and founded her own boutique studio, Grown Creative. She and her team create brand assets for clients as well as original IP. They’re having a blast building up the business and sneaking art into the world and have even learned to see the beauty in a spreadsheet.

NOAH LEWELLEN and his wife, Emily, and daughter Theo welcomed another girl into the family, Carson, in November. KATHERINE BURDINE (writing as Katherine Arden) published her eighth novel The Warm Hands of Ghosts with Penguin Random House in February 2024. It was an international bestseller, named one of Amazon’s best books of the year so far, and has been or will be published in six languages. 71

ClassNotes

KEVIN, Cameron, and Livvy DOWLEN

KEVIN DOWLEN and Cameron (an English Teacher in the St. John’s Upper School) welcomed their daughter, Catherine Livingston ‘Livvy’ Dowlen, into the world on July 8, 2024. Cameron and Livvy are doing great, and the whole family cannot wait to start attending St. John’s lacrosse games in the spring. HANNAH CURRY-MCDOUGALD opened her own historic preservation consulting firm Palindrome Preservation in April 2024. She’s happy to help with any and all questions you might have about your old building! BRIAN GILCREASE and family welcomed their third child, William, to the world in January 2024. His big sister adores him. His big brother tolerates him. NICK MANN and his wife, Lauren Earl, welcomed their first child, Dawson Mann, in October 2023. They live in Sherman Oaks in Los Angeles, CA.

DEETS got Murrayed!

DEETS HOFFMAN married Allison Murray Manley in Birmingham, AL, on October 7, 2023. Toward the end of the reception, one of the band members fell to the ground and went into cardiac arrest. DOCTORS ANDY GAGEL and MATTHEW STARKE swiftly jumped on-stage and traded off doing CPR, bringing the band member’s pulse back several times over the course of approximately 10 minutes, before it finally stabilized. The band member went out sitting up on a stretcher and giving an emphatic thumbs up, and the crowd erupted as the two heroes re-entered the room where wedding guests had gathered. RACHEL HILLER KUPERINSKY and her husband, Brandon, welcomed Jacob Simon Kuperinsky on February 13, 2024. Rachel is still in the Philadelphia area and is entering her 10th academic year in Penn Athletics as the Associate Athletic Director, Compliance/Senior Woman Administrator.

Top: Anika with AMRAPALI at her dance recital Bottom: Ishan Maitra with auntie APARAJITA

AMRAPALI MAITRA and husband Lahiru Jayatilaka welcomed Ishan Jayatilaka Maitra in January. “Ishan delights us with his sweet personality and gentle smiles. Big sister Anika, who is almost four, is excited! Anika loves to dance, paint, do puzzles, read, and squeeze her brother’s cheeks. She just participated in her first ballet/tap recital where she knocked our socks off (fortunately hers stayed on!). Both Anika and Ishan enjoy quality time with auntie APARAJITA MAITRA ’13, who lives nearby! “Amrapali is an assistant professor of hospital medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine.” STEVE SPENCER and wife Emily welcomed Samuel Jeffrey Spencer to their family. Shepherd (4) and Poppy (2) are excited to have another playmate in the house.

ClassNotes

REBECCA & Scott Hughes

REBECCA & Scott with members of their wedding party.

REBECCA LINN married Scott Hughes on September 30, 2023 at The Revaire in Houston. Her wedding party included several St. John’s graduates - SAM LINN ’09, ALICIA HERGENROEDER, DIANA KIRKLAND, JULIET KROLL, and ALEXANDRA TENNANT.

CLASS OF

2007

ALLISON BLAND FLICK

sjsclassof2007@gmail.com JENNIE CAVEN ADAMS and Dawson Adams joyfully announce the birth of their daughter, Isabel Vivien Adams, who arrived on September 26, 2023.

ALLISON BLAND FLICK and Bryan Flick welcomed their first son, Charles Riddell Flick, on November 7, 2023. He is one happy baby! Papa ROBERT BLAND ’73, Wiwi LOUISE RIDDELL BLAND ’75, and uncle ROBERT BLAND ’10 are loving the new addition to the family. DAVID FINKELSTEIN is leaving Austin and heading back to Houston to teach Latin at St. Thomas High School.

Isabel Vivien Adams

CAT CAIN moved back to Houston and is now working as a luxury travel advisor. She also started an embroidery business with with her sister EMILY CAIN WILLIAMS ’09 called Larston Lane.

ALLISON, Bryan, and Charles Riddell FLICK

ClassNotes

KATY TERRELL BOETTCHER and son Oscar

KATY TERRELL BOETTCHER and John Boettcher welcomed their first child, Oscar, on February 29, 2024. A Leapling!

JEREMY SLAWIN and CHANEL TRAN

Morgan, Ford, and Frances Bowers

Brian Carter Jackson and his brothers

NORA NIEBRUEGGE BOWERS and Austin welcomed twin girls, Morgan and Frances, to their family on October 29, 2023. Ford is a great big brother and loves to help take care of his sisters!

LAUREN WATERS JACKSON and her husband, Brian, are thrilled to share that they welcomed their third child, Brian Carter Jackson, on April 10 in Houston. Carter joins excited big brothers, Wesley (5) and Charlie (4), who can’t wait until he’s old enough to play catch with them.

JEREMY SLAWIN and CHANEL TRAN Wedding Celebration

JEREMY SLAWIN and CHANEL TRAN married in October 2023. They celebrated their Vietnamese ceremony at St. John’s with fellow Class of 2007 friends. 74

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

2008

LAURA DIEZ

laura.diez.12@gmail.com LAURA DIEZ and her husband, Paul Jarvis, welcomed their first child, Julia Mariana Jarvis, in October 2023. PETER GUFFEY has lived in Dallas with his wife, Meghan, for four years. Peter and Meghan have a lot to celebrate this year: their fifth wedding anniversary; the birth of their third child, Riffe Christopher Guffey (who joins older siblings Colette (4) and Crosby (2)); and Peter’s promotion to Director at Paceline Equity Partners. CAROLINE FARISH SIEVERS and her husband, John, welcomed their second child, John “Jack” Alan Sievers, in January. Lottie (3) is loving her role as big sister!

HALLIE and Kevin’s older son, William,

JACKSON and Stephanie on their

welcomes his little brother

wedding day

HALLIE CRAWFORD MCKEE and her husband, Kevin, welcomed Robert “Robbie” McKee to the world on June 16. Big brother William (3) and Mom/Dad are overjoyed!

JACKSON SMITH married his wife, Stephanie, in a Lunar New Year bash on February 10 in Houston.

JOHN MCCARTHY graduated from his Emergency Medicine residency and is moving to Austin to work in an ER there. In his words, “Hope to never see any of you at my place of work!” LAWSON GOW recently received the West University Walking Club’s prestigious “Best Legs” award. The official name is ‘Best Legs Award: They Go ALL The Way Up!’ Try to contain yourself next time you see Lawson and his legs walking around West U. CHRISTINA MAI KAUL had a son, Surya Mai Kaul, last year, and he turned one in June! He celebrated his birthday in New York City with some of Christina’s fellow SJS alumni and members of the Class of 2008.

JAMIE and her boys

JAMIE GIAM MCHUGH and her husband, Patrick, welcomed their second child, Evan Thomas McHugh, on March 31. Connor (2) is doing great in his new role as big brother! 75

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

2013

ALLIE ROBINSON

allie.robinson.13@gmail.com On March 3, EMILY ENTREKIN HOEHN and her husband, William, welcomed a baby girl, Charlotte Marie Hoehn. Charlotte was born in Atlanta. Emily says, “We are over the moon and just adore her!”

US Olympic Women’s Field Hockey Goalie KELSEY BING

MARSHA ZHANG got married in April to Jason Kim, Princeton ’17. MADDIE CLAYTON BEAUCHEMIN and sister OLIVIA ZHANG ’18 were bridesmaid and maid of honor respectively. GINNY GRIFFIN and WES WALLACE

CLASS OF

2014

NIKHILA KRISHNAN

GINNY GRIFFIN and WES WALLACE were married in Colorado on September 2, 2023.

njk33@georgetown.edu CLASS OF

2016

JENNIFER TRIESCHMAN

jennifertrieschman@icloud.com

KELSEY BING is an Olympian! Kelsey competed on the US Olympic Women’s Field Hockey Team in the Paris Olympics. Kelsey started playing field hockey in seventh grade at St. John’s and wowed us all with the promise she showed as a goalkeeper, even in the early years playing on grass on Finnegan and Caven fields. Kelsey won two SPC Field Hockey Championships in Upper School and went on to play on Stanford’s Division I Field Hockey team. Today, she balances her time between two jobs, one as a mechanical engineer and one as the goalkeeper for the US Olympic Women’s Field Hockey Team. We are so proud of you, Kelsey!

Miller Cole Fertitta

CAROLINE REASONER FERTITTA and her husband, Jonas, welcomed Miller Cole Fertitta into the world on May 12. MICHAEL COWAN, CADE LUEDDE, PHILIP KENSINGER, CHRIS RANDALL, JEFFREY PAINE, CHARLES DORFMAN, WILL BICKHAM, LAKE LEPPERT and PAUL LABANOWSKI gathered to celebrate Jeffrey Paine’s engagement.

ClassNotes

CLASS OF

2019

CAMERON MAY

cameronmay@gmail.com SOPHIE LAZEAR was recently promoted to Group Service Coordinator with the New Orleans Saints/Pelicans.

LINDSEY MCKONE and her brother WILL ’20

LINDSEY MCKONE is competing in her fourth season of professional lacrosse with Athletes Unlimited. Athletes Unlimited is a player-driven league where each individual athlete earns points for every play, quarter win, game win and MVP vote. In addition, each athlete has the opportunity to play for a cause of their choice, and AU matches 100% of players’ bonus money. Lindsey plays in honor of her brother, WILL MCKONE ’20, for ChadTough Defeat DIPG, an organization committed to finding a cure for DIPG, a childhood brain cancer that Will fought so hard against. Please see below link to learn more about Lindsey’s fundraising efforts through Athletes Unlimited to Defeat DIPG and support Team Willie Smac. https://secure.givelively.org/ donate/the-chadtoughfoundation/lindsey-mckone

If you haven’t yet read AMY DONG’s first published book Twenty-One Years Young: Essays, be sure to check it out! Amy published her book in December 2020. She is currently pursuing an Ed.M. at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

CLASS OF

2020

MARGARET TRAUTNER married John Lathrop in April 2024

NCAA National Champions

SYDNEY BUCHMAN ’20 (Kenyon Swimming), DENISE PAN ’20 (Carnegie Mellon Golf ), and MEG SHELBURNE ’20 (Middlebury SYDNEY MOYE and CADE LUEDDE

Field Hockey) attended the 2024 College Athlete Day at the White House on July 23.

were married in October 2023

InMemoriam

In Memory of Alice Kagi

JOHN HUGH BUCK ’60 GRADY WALTER COKER ’95 HELEN BLOXSOM DAVIS ’55 MARY JEAN FOWLER

Former Faculty GARNETT BROWN GREVELLE ’58 ALICE KAGI

Faculty Emerita CATHY SEARLS MAHONEY ’57 WILLIAM J. MARES ’58 JULIE MATHES

Former Faculty STANLEY REED MORIAN ’64

Former Trustee GONG SZETO ’85 MARY JANE WALTON ’61 DIANA “DEDE” MILLER WEIL ’54 WAYNE B. WELCH

Former Staff VIRGINIA “GINNY” ELVERSON WELCH ’68

onning her white lab coat, Alice Kagi led her science classroom with enthusiasm and vigor. Known for her engaging teaching style and passion for science, biology in particular, Alice left an indelible mark on the St. John’s community over her 32 years of service. Joining the St. John’s in 1979, Alice was a leader in the Science Department with her time spanning over two generations of students. Courses taught included Life Science in Middle School as well as Biology, Biology Honors, and Bio 2 AP in Upper School. Along with leading the classroom, Alice mentored new Biology faculty members and served as the Chair of the Science Department for many years. Professional accolades included the M.D. Anderson Master Teacher Award, the Neva and Wesley West Award for Excellence in Teaching, and membership in the Cum Laude Society. It has been noted that Alice both attended and taught conferences on three different continents during her professional tenure. Upon her retirement and being named as faculty emerita in 2011, the Head of School at that time, Mark Desjardins, noted “As impressive as her accomplishments have been, Alice’s contributions to students’ and colleagues’ lives have been most meaningful. The [Houston] Texas Medical Center and dozens of other medical centers around the country are home to her pupils who, inspired by their experience with [Alice], pursued careers in research and medicine. Outside the classroom, she has labored to connect students with the application of the sciences by sponsoring the SJS blood drive and the Science and Math Club and by founding a medical mentorship program.” The year after her retirement, Alice was celebrated at the 2012 St. John’s Alumni Awards Ceremony and named Honorary Alumna by the SJS Alumni Association. Many alumni attribute their love of science — and decision to choose a career in medicine — as predicated by their time in Alice’s classroom. “As a teacher, Alice was demanding but compassionate. She was a superb role model for women in science,” reflects colleague DWIGHT RAULSTON ’71. Alice’s legacy includes decades of appreciative students and colleagues as well as daughter SONJA ’84 and family. Roxie Allen, who followed Alice Kagi as Chair of the Science Department after Alice’s retirement, shares that “[Alice] was an avid outdoorswoman, who loved hiking near her beloved home in Arkansas and biking, even so far as riding her bike to campus regularly from West U. She loved traveling with her family and even alone. She was a ‘micro-baggage’ traveler, often using just her small back pack for a week’s worth of travel to a conference.” While it is with great sadness to say goodbye, the SJS community relishes the memories of all that Alice gave to us as mentor, colleague, and friend. We continue to keep Alice and all of her family in our thoughts. She will be missed.

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The Alumni Magazine of St. John’s School 713.850.0222

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A LU M N I E V E N T S & I M P O R TA N T DAT E S

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Volume 84 Fall 2024 Editor SUSAN CHAMBERLIN MUNSON ’97

SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER

Alumni Awards Nominations Mon., Sept. 9 Wed., Oct. 30, 2024 Nominations may be made by alumni via the SJS website. ........

College-Age Alumni Tea 12 pm - 1:30 pm Thurs., Dec. 19, 2024 in the Quadrangle ........

OCTOBER Alumni Football Watch Party 7 pm - 9 pm, Fri., Oct. 4, 2024 in the Tradition Room ........

Alumni Board Nominations Wed., Jan. 15 Mon., Feb. 24, 2025 Nominations may be made via the SJS website. ........

NOVEMBER

MARCH

St. John’s Network Social 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm, Thurs., Nov. 14, 2024 in Flores Hall ........

Alumni Phonathon 6 pm - 8 pm Tues., Mar. 18, 2025 in Flores Hall ........

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