SPRING2016
THE
BELL
COLLEGE BOUND For the Alumni, Families, and Friends of St. Martin’s Episcopal School
SECTION NAME Spring 2016
Publisher
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St. Martin’s Episcopal School 225 Green Acres Road Metairie, LA 70003 (504) 733-0353 stmsaints.com
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Head of School Merry Sorrells
Director of Development Lisa Davis
Director of Marketing & Communications Editor, The Bell
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Rob Norton
Director of Alumni Aimee Hyatt ’02
Photography
Wally Porter ’76, Parker Waters, Rob Norton, Aimee Hyatt, Megan Bauer, Ricky Gilmore, and faculty, parent, and alumni submissions.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Design
KP Creative
News & Events 4 Retiring Staff 5
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Award Ceremonies 14
Connect with us on social media:
Athletic Awards 18 Athletics 20
STMSAINTSLA
Feature Story 24 Class of 2016 Graduation 28
@STMSAINTS
Annual Fund 32 Saints Community Organization 34 Endowment & Special Funds 36 Alumni Events 39 Alumni Spotlight 44 Scattered Faculty 46
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Scattered Saints 47 Memorials 54 Cover photo by Wally Porter ’76
MISSION STATEMENT
“We prepare students to thrive in college and in life through faith, scholarship and service.”
STM_SAINTS
Message from the Head of School
Message from the Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Merry Sorrells
Stephen Huber ’89
It’s graduation week as I write this article, and our
graduates are ready to move on to life’s next exciting adventure. I love this paragraph on the College Guidance section of our website: “The key to a successful college search is the student’s engagement in the process. While it is our belief that the college search is an adventure, we expect our students to participate in serious self-reflection to identify appropriate goals and strategies for success. The college counselor offers encouragement and expertise to guide the student through that quest.”
I love that we include “serious self-reflection” in our college guidance process. As our students work to determine their personal college application lists, self-reflection becomes the cornerstone for informing the decision-making process. We are so fortunate at St. Martin’s to have a thorough, knowledgeable, and professional college counseling staff to guide our students as they take up this charge. My own experience was the diametric opposite of that of a St. Martin’s student. Graduating from public school in a class of over five hundred students, I did not have a single conversation with a college counselor. My family visited a college campus when I was about ten years old, and I fell in love with that school on the spot. I determined then that this was the college I would attend, and I never searched further. The tuition was a tremendous stretch for my family, so we didn’t even submit an application until the summer after my senior year.
Crazily, because of that late submission, I learned only the day before orientation that a place had opened up for me at this college of my dreams. When the call came, I had only a short amount of time to pack, reconcile myself to being the first in my family to leave the nest, and travel to the school to be at freshman orientation early the next morning. I will never forget the exhilaration and fear I felt as my father and I pulled away from the cozy, safe home that I had known all my life.
As we drove through the night, “serious self-reflection” was finally taking hold. I remember deciding that I could be anything I wanted to be. This was my chance to leave the unremarkable days of my high school career behind me. I mentally sorted through my academic accomplishments to date and selected the direction for my college studies. I didn’t know a soul when I arrived, and the pit of my stomach churned as I watched my father drive away. Ready or not, I was stepping into a whole new world, a world that I had only dreamed of. 2 | Spring 2016
I share this story because I am proud and grateful that our St. Martin’s seniors are so well prepared to take that step from high school to college. And, for them it is just that: a step, and not a leap across a giant, frightening abyss. Our teachers, chaplains, counselors, and staff (not to mention parents!) have
“I am proud and grateful that our St. Martin’s seniors are so well prepared to take that step from high school to college. And, for them it is just that: a step, and not a leap across a giant, frightening abyss.“ these students wonderfully ready for life’s triumphs and challenges. The epiphany of who they are and what they can achieve doesn’t happen in the middle of the night as they travel toward a new world. Our students are guided throughout their experience at St. Martin’s by loving, caring, and talented teachers and counselors. They are encouraged from their early years in Lower School to Merry Sorrells, 9. Principia College 197 explore their talents, to hone their skills, and to draw from a spiritual foundation when making decisions about their lives and future. The college guidance process is the culmination of those wonderful years of preparation.
Congratulations, Class of 2016! You are ready to step in any direction your dreams take you.
As this issue of The Bell’s feature story is on
college guidance and preparation, I gave some thought to my own experiences as a student and how St. Martin’s prepared me for college. I found myself wishing I had some great story about a moment of realization when I arrived on the campus of SMU. However, I think my realization was slower and occurred over time. Really, it is only in looking back that I understand how well St. Martin’s prepared my classmates and me in so many disciplines. During high school we may not have realized that the foundation of our successes was being laid by the experiences and opportunities afforded to us by St. Martin’s. When Mrs. Beckman edited our papers, we were being prepared for experiences in college and beyond. Every time a coach inspired us on the field, it was preparation. As the college counselor guided us, we were taking steps toward future success. Like so many others, I love that I can keep up with far-flung Class of 1989 classmates via Facebook. Whitney Johnson roams across the globe making documentary films, while Vin Tangpricha travels the world as an endocrinologist who lectures in places as far away as Dubai. Shelby Snyder, a world-class educator in Houston, provides valuable insights to the school and Board of Trustees. Raynal Ruch Hamilton is a radiologist in Dallas, and Sal Caserta is an architect in New Orleans. Finally, I would be remiss in not mentioning my classmate Ford Dieth, who is our beloved Head of Lower School. This is just a sampling of the successes of the Class of 1989. You can pick any graduating year from St. Martin’s and find similar successes, accomplishments, and above all, outstanding people. What they have in common is that the foundations for those successes began at StM. Looking back at my classmates and celebrating their achievements, both business and personal (with wonderful families and new generations), is when I truly came to appreciate what the school had done for us. At St. Martin’s, our mission statement explains that “we prepare students to thrive in college and in life.” All of the above people are wonderful examples of this rigorous preparation. StM has turned out a group of leaders who are thriving in so many different areas because it prepared us so well as whole people. This is why I send my own children to St. Martin’s; this is why I am confident that, when we send our graduates on to college, they are more Stephen Huber, than prepared to thrive. SMU bound
2015-16 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Mr. Stephen M. Huber ’89, Chair Mr. Bruce Parkerson ’75 Mr. Michael F. Nicoladis ’78, Past Chair Mr. David S. Reeves Mrs. Heidi Gremillion, Secretary Mr. Walker Fleming Saik ’02 Mr. Jeffrey Meckstroth, Treasurer Dr. Peter Stedman ’71 Mr. Patrick Comer Ex officio: The Rev. Frederick D. Devall IV ’87 Mrs. Merry Sorrells Mr. G. Perry Eastman III ’62 Mrs. Betsy Threefoot Kaston ’72 The Rt. Rev. Morris K. Thompson Mrs. Ana Ortega ’85
2015-16 BOARD OF VISITORS Mr. Michael C. Odom, President Mrs. Brenda Manard Mr. Herschel L. Abbott, Jr. Mr. Robert W. Merrick ’62 Mrs. Judy Fremaux Adams ’64 Mr. Jesse B. Morgan III ’66 Mr. Richard C. Adkerson Mr. Robert E. Peyton Mrs. Carol Appel Mrs. Becky Ramelli Dr. Robert Arensman Mrs. Janet Rigdon Mr. Brian C. Bossier ’78 Dr. Fred H. Rodriguez, Jr. ’68 Mr. Alan G. Brackett Mrs. Mary Sue Nelson Roniger ’60 Mr. Gary H. Brewster ’71 Mr. Jerry L. Saporito Mrs. Joella B. Burlingame Mrs. Margaret Schuber Mrs. Lynn S. Coatney Mr. Howard J. Smith, Jr. ’60 Brig. Gen. J. B. Cobb ’54 Mr. Gary N. Solomon, Sr. Mrs. Beth DePass ’79 Mrs. Karen Sullivan The Very Rev. David duPlantier Mr. George R. Sumner Dr. W. Brooks Emory ’60 Mrs. Kerry Vogt Mr. Michael A. Flick Mrs. Edie Wilson The Rev. Susan Gaumer Mr. John M. Wilson Mrs. Marian Gibbs Ex officio: Dr. Tejas T. Godiwala Mr. Stephen M. Huber ’89 Mr. John J. Graham Mrs. Merry Sorrells Mr. James O. Gundlach ’54 The Rt. Rev. Morris K. Thompson Mr. Hans A.B. Jonassen ’58 Mrs. Donna Bethune Lewis
Senior year,
The Bell | 3
NEWS & EVENTS
NEWS & EVENTS
St. Martin’s Day St. Martin’s Day, one of our most
cherished traditions, is the feast day of our patron saint and a time to celebrate our school in the same ways that we have for years. The theme for 2015 was “Making Connections that Count.” During the fall, everyone worked to raise money for our student-selected charity, the Multiple Sclerosis Society. On the morning of November 13, 2015, all Pre-K through 12th grade students gathered for the opening chapel service. Then everyone separated for games, followed by the campus-wide discovery hunt. After that, the entire school met in the Lower School quad for a pep rally to recognize fall sports. From there, buddies enjoyed lunch together in the beautiful weather. At the closing ceremony, a check was presented to Merry Sorrells to be sent to the MS Society. It was a wonderful StM Day on many levels.
The Rev. Canon Shannon Manning delivers the StM Day sermon.
Thank you for your service to St. Martin’s!
National Honor Society Fall Tapping On November 23, 2015, the National Honor Society chapter at St. Martin’s welcomed
31 new members to its ranks during a ceremony in the Dan and Francis White Chapel. The address was given by Michelle Scandurro, Head of Upper School. 4 | Spring 2016
35 Virginia Hoffman
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22 Margaret Budde
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22 Linda Kier
Pat Simpson
Winnie Wendel
Retiring Employees The Bell | 5
NEWS & EVENTS
NEWS & EVENTS
Coatney Leadership Award Presented to Happy Johnson
Grandparents' Day On November 24, 2015 St. Martin’s
held its annual Grandparents' Day. We welcomed guests from as far away as England to our campus. They were treated to breakfast in Saints Hall and then moved to the Solomon Theater for performances by the choir, band, and handbell ensemble. From there, they headed to different areas of campus to share in various activities with their grandchildren. It was a wonderful way to begin the Thanksgiving holiday.
As part of the annual Coatney Leadership Day, students
awarded the 2016 Leadership Award to Happy Johnson, co-founder of Team Happy Foundation. Since its beginnings in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the foundation has supplied more than 45,000 hours of volunteer time rebuilding homes in Orleans Parish; awarded 3,000 new books to children in under-resourced families; taught 4,000 youth how to build disaster kits and become coastal restoration champions; delivered 3,000 emergency blankets to hospitals throughout Haiti; and trained 3,600 inmates on effective community re-entry. The Leadership Award ceremony is the culmination of a student-driven process that not only increases understanding of the qualities that define a leader, but also develops those qualities in participating students from grades 8 through 12. A ten-student Nominating Committee forms teams to research local individuals whose positive leadership has had a substantive impact on the community. Each team prepares a presentation to students, faculty, and staff who then vote to determine the recipient. Doyle Coatney, former Acme Trucking CEO and long-time St. Martin’s community partner, established the Leadership Day in 2009. He was recognized at the ceremony for his personal involvement over the past seven years in supporting the event.
St. Martin’s Travels to China This spring, members of the International Student Program
traveled to five Chinese cities - Beijing, Tianjin, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Hangzhou to introduce students to an authentic global education. This was St. Martin’s inaugural trip with both teachers and students to its sister school, Yanzhou High School. Students in the program stayed with host families in the city of Yanzhou, all of which had sons enrolled at Yanzhou High School. This opportunity allowed the students to continue their studies of the Chinese culture outside of the classroom. Though language barriers existed, the students said that they were impressed by the host families’ abilities to communicate and to make each visitor feel welcome.
Ring Day 2016 On April 14, 2016, St. Martin’s
StM teachers were not just chaperones. Al Tritico was asked to teach English vocabulary to Yanzhou High School students. Though this task was unplanned, Tritico excelled by incorporating New Orleans’ history into his lesson. Our students assisted him with the lesson, and also participated in classes that introduced them to elements of Chinese culture such as tea ceremonies, ink and wash painting, and opera. In the 2016-17 school year, it is anticipated that 10 students from China will attend St. Martin’s. The International Student Program plans to make its trip to China an annual event.
Ben Bone ’19, Happy Johnson, Elyse Kann ’20
6 | Spring 2016
“What is your legacy going to be as the Class of 2017?”
celebrated Ring Day. This spring rite of passage signifies the beginning of the end of the current school year. It is significant for juniors and seniors alike. Juniors receive their rings from seniors and take the first step into their new place as leaders of the school. Seniors begin the process of saying farewell that culminates with graduation. This year, StM alumni Thomas “Beau” Bethune ’92 gave a reflective and insightful Ring Day speech. Beau focused on the topic of leadership and its place within our school values of faith, scholarship, and service. He addressed the junior class directly: “I challenge you during this last year at St. Martin’s. Look at what the school has given you and be leaders in your last year. What is your legacy going to be as the Class of 2017? What are you going to do?” We anticipate that the Class of 2017 will meet that challenge head on as they become the leaders of St. Martin’s during their senior year. The Bell | 7
NEWS & EVENTS
ACADEMIC TEAMS
Science Olympiad On Saturday, April 9, the Science Olympiad team competed in the State Science Olympiad Championships at Southeastern Louisiana University. The team qualified for the state championships by placing second in Region I competition in February.
St. Martin’s Science Olympiad (Division “B”) Team
DIVISION B TEAM MEMBERS AND MEDALS Isabella Bartholomew, 7th - 1 silver Ishmael Blackstone, 9th - 1 bronze Deen Choi, 7th Rico Coleman, 9th - 1 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze Clara Conatser, 7th - 3 silver Gifford Courtney, 9th - 1 gold, 2 bronze Jackson Nettles, 7th - 1 bronze Alec Ricci, 9th - 1 bronze Colby Shannon, 8th Bharat Solanky, 8th - 1 gold, 2 silver Brandon Stokes, 8th - 1 gold, 1 silver Hayes Whitney, 7th Ella Zhang, 8th - 1 silver, 1 bronze
placed third overall in the state championships.
St. Martin’s Science Olympiad Team (Division “C”) placed second overall in the state championships, losing only to Baton Rouge Magnet.
Quiz Bowl Team
Debate Team
This year’s Quiz Bowl team faced the daunting task of defending
The Middle School team
StM’s State Championship with a team made up entirely of freshmen and sophomores. Despite their young ages, they came in fourth at the State competition. At Nationals, they earned a 4-2 record on Day 1 to qualify for the playoffs. They won their first playoff match, 350-235, before being eliminated by the first seeded team. The future is bright for these young competitors!
Literary Rally In March, St. Martin’s students (pictured below) participated in the GNO District Literary Rally at Loyola University.
Sixteen students placed first in their events, and seven were in second place. Bharat Solanky finished first overall in district for Algebra I, while Clara Conatser finished first overall for French I. After competition at the district level, over twenty St. Martin’s students qualified for state competition. Of those who continued on to compete at the state level, several placed in the top tier. StM notched six first place finishes, four second places, and two third. Additionally, St. Martin’s had the distinction of having an overall state winner in the Advanced Math: Functions and Statistics category, Bryce Monier.
Model UN Ten StM Model UN delegates joined 1100
students from around the world to create the WAMUNC Model UN Conference. The event was hosted by the International Affairs Society of the Elliott School of International Relations at The George Washington University. The StM students prepared for weeks in advance for their assigned roles as diplomats from Nigeria, the Philippines, Iran, and Romania in committees ranging from the UN General Assembly to the African Union. Highlights of the four-day conference included guest speakers from the United States Department of State and surprise appearances from ayatollahs and Vladimir Putin (role-played by the George Washington Committee Chairs). StM delegates came away with sharpened Model UN skills, deeper understanding of global issues, and new friendships with Model UN teams from around the world.
DIVISION C TEAM MEMBERS AND MEDALS Patrick Adams, 12th - 1 silver Caitlin Bagnetto, 10th - 2 silver Alexandra Bartholomew, 10th - 2 silver, 1 bronze Chloe Bartholomew, 10th - 1 gold, 2 silver Natalia Bourg, 9th Jun Choi, 10th - 1 bronze Elise Lafleur, 9th - 1 silver, 1 bronze David Miller, 12th - 1 gold Bryce Monier, 10th - 3 gold, 1 bronze Jessica Pickens, 9th - 2 gold, 1 silver Madelaine Pickens, 9th - 2 gold, 1 silver Stephen Richards, 11th - 1 bronze Collin Shannon, 10th - 1 gold Maansi Solanky, 10th - 1 gold Jack Zheng, 12th - 1 gold, 1 silver
had another successful year, under Susan Goudail’s direction. MS students participated in local Members of the Middle School Debate tournaments throughout Team at the Regional tournament. the year, earning honors in each. The team earned second place at the Southeastern Regional tournament in April. For the first time in years, Upper School competed and took people by storm! With Brandy Williams as coach, students placed at every competition. After accumulating points throughout the year, three students qualified for Regionals and four students qualified for State.
InvenTeam Receives Lemelson-MIT Award StM’s InvenTeam has been selected as one of thirty-five teams
in the nation to receive the Excite Award from the Lemelson-MIT program. The award automatically makes the team a finalist for one of five InvenTeam grants of $10,000 to fund its project. Sixteen physics students, with science teacher Ray Scioneaux and Innovation + Design Team member Brandy Williams, comprise St. Martin’s InvenTeam. The program encourages schools to provide challenging opportunities for students to solve real world problems. The St. Martin’s team plans to invent a state of the art blender/juicer that will benefit individuals with digestive system sensitivities by thoroughly removing seeds and husks from foods produced both at home and commercially. The Bell | 9
NEWS & EVENTS
PERFORMING ARTS
Xanadu
The Odd Couple Last fall, the StM community was
This year’s Performing Arts Department's
treated to a dinner theater performance of The Odd Couple. Two performances presented a male “odd couple,” and two performances cast females in those roles. Each rendition of the show had audiences laughing out loud.
spring musical production was Xanadu: The Disco Musical Fantasy. Audiences enjoyed incredible songs, amazing performances, spirited roller skaters, and even a giant disco ball suspended from the ceiling of the Solomon Theater. Lead roles were played by seniors Madison Aucoin and Ashton Angelle. The Friday night showing was dedicated to alum Harry Mayronne ’72 in recognition of his contributions to the arts community of New Orleans.
Spring Concert The Performing Arts Department presented its spring
concert on the evening of April 26 in the Dan and Frances White Chapel. Attendees enjoyed performances by StM’s choirs, bands, and handbell ensemble.
Lower School Play Chorus Performs at Pelicans Game
Middle School Play Zombies took over the theater for the
Middle School play All I Really Need to Know I Learned from Being a Zombie. Everyone was impressed (and even frightened) by the musical numbers, great student-made costuming, and realistic make-up.
In January members of our
combined choirs were given the honor of singing the national anthem at an NBA Pelicans game in the Smoothie King Center.
Students from Pre-K to 5th grade took the stage for the
adorable Lower School play I Didn’t Know That! By the end of the performance everyone had learned something new.
The Bell | 11
NEWS & EVENTS
The Gibbs Family Center for Innovation + Design Construction Update: Opening Fall 2016 Excitement continues to grow as the steel structure and signature roofline of The Gibbs Family Center for Innovation + Design take shape in the heart of St. Martin’s campus, between Saints Hall and the Merrick Center for Visual Arts. The new stand-alone building will house areas that enable students to experience “true hands-on learning” through the design thinking process. The 5,000 square foot building will simultaneously operate as a design studio, prototype lab, classroom, production studio, wood shop, build shop, and community partnership workspace.
NEWS & EVENTS
The Innovation + Design program hits the road with the Mobile Idea Lab! In the spring of 2015, St. Martin’s was awarded a $50,000 challenge grant from the prestigious Edward E. Ford Foundation for a mobile design thinking laboratory, a classroom without borders, which will enable St. Martin’s students to partner with schools, small businesses, and community organizations on project-based programs and imbue participants with the design thinking mindset and problem-solving approach. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Nicole and Danny McMyne, Kim and Jean-Marc Tuleu, Documart, and Urvi and Hiren Shah, the $50,000 matching funds have been raised and the Mobile Idea Lab will be hitting the highways this fall. We also thank generous StM supporters for their incredible commitment to the Gibbs Family Center for Innovation + Design and the George Cottage Expansion.
JOIN US IN TRANSFORMING EDUCATION! The content hasn’t changed, but, as you can see, some of the ways our teachers deliver information have changed. Funds are still being raised for the George Cottage expansion and equipment for the Gibbs Family Center for Innovation + Design. If you or your business would like to learn more about making a gift or partnering with the I+D program, please contact Lisa Davis at (504) 736-9960 or lisa.davis@stmsaints.com.
The George Cottage Expands as the Program Grows High quality infant childcare is in great demand, and as the need grows so must our facilities. The George Cottage is now accepting children from 8 weeks through 4 years old, and the expansion will add classrooms, a teacher resource room, and a multipurpose room, providing a space for a 38% student increase. The George Cottage offers a first-class Reggio-inspired curriculum built on the best practices established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The play-based program encourages exploration, nurtures the spirit, and cultivates a sense of wonder. It creates a community of learners where children, teachers, and parents work collaboratively, explore, discover, learn, and have fun, all within the confines of a safe, loving, and nurturing environment. Would you like to schedule a tour or learn more about the program? Contact Holly Dalferes, Director of George Cottage, at (504) 736-9901 or holly.dalferes@stmsaints.com Fundraising for the George Cottage continues. To learn more about how your gift can make a difference, please contact Lisa Davis, Director of Development, at (504) 736-9960 or lisa.davis@stmsaints.com.
Architectural rendering by Blitch Knevel Architects.
12 | Spring 2016
The Bell | 13
NEWS & EVENTS 2015-2016 AWARDS
Student Awards Lower School 5th Grade Recognition Program, May 20, 2016
LOWER & MIDDLE NEWS & SCHOOLS EVENTS
HIGH ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Luke Alvendia Elena Costello Justin Hall Bohden Huwe
Ian Linden Connor Nicoladis Ricky Pickens Samantha Thompson
Middle School Awards Program, May 26, 2016
CITIZENSHIP AWARD
August Schmedtje and Samantha Thompson
SHILLING AWARD
OUTSTANDING CITIZENSHIP
HIGHEST CLASS AVERAGE
Presented out of love and gratitude for Penny Shilling, teacher and friend, to that student selected by the faculty and students on the basis of scholarship, service, and amiability.
Brooke Whelan and Ryan Johnson
Awardees pictured above: Lauren Bone, Lindsey LaForge, and Clara Conatser
Ian Linden pictured with Justin Hall
Clara Conatser and Ford Millican (not pictured)
MILLICAN CUP
Presented to the student who has excelled in academic achievement and has consistently displayed the characteristics of good citizenship.
Zachary Day and Lindsey LaForge
Luke Alvendia
MARJORIE CONATSER AWARD
Presented in thanksgiving for the vision and dedication of Marjorie Conatser, a teacher and Lower School Head. This award is given to a student who has attended five years or more and possesses integrity, initiative, creativity, and enthusiasm. Marjorie Conatser pictured with award winner Elena Costello
DON SCHWARZ DEAN’S AWARD
Presented annually to a student selected by the Head of Middle School who excels academically and displays dedication to the St. Martin’s ideals of faith, scholarship, and service. Zachary Day
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NEWS & EVENTS 2013-2014 2015-2016 AWARDS
Upper School
Honors Program, May 27, 2016
NEWS UPPER&SCHOOL EVENTS THE SPIRIT OF ST. MARTIN’S AWARD
THE JOHN F. AKER AWARD
This prestigious award is given to the member of the senior class who, in the opinion of the Upper School faculty, best possesses and represents the qualities and characteristics of our school: faith, scholarship, and service.
Commemorating our affection and respect for a former colleague and English teacher, this award is given to a junior whose effort, example, and character have made an outstanding contribution to the life of St. Martin’s school. The recipient is selected by a majority vote of the Upper School faculty.
Jack Zheng
Hakeem Blackstone
VALEDICTORIAN
THE REV. JOHN STONE JENKINS CITIZENSHIP AWARD
Abbey Sims SALUTATORIAN
Madison Kahn NATIONAL MERIT RECOGNITION
Abbey Sims and Jack Zheng CUM LAUDE SOCIETY
Seniors
Madison Cummings Luke Didriksen Cheyenne Dwyer Kailee Gibson Antonio Imbornone Madison Kahn Jaclyn Murphy Abbey Sims Jack Zheng
Each year, two seniors are chosen by the Upper School faculty to receive this award which is based on character, courage, scholarship, leadership, and service.
Andy Chen and Madison Kahn
THE MICHAEL JOHN MOSELEY AWARD
Commemorating the outstanding record that was established at St. Martin’s by Michael John Moseley ’67, who was a scholar and a leader in service and athletics, this award is given to a student, chosen by the student council, who excels in athletics, scholarship, and service.
Antonio Imbornone
THE JULIE DIETH 13-YEAR CLUB MEMBERS
Kailee Gibson Abbey Sims THE JULIE DIETH 14-YEAR CLUB MEMBERS
Patrick Adams David Miller Jaclyn Murphy Stephen Sandel Raj Shah Julia Weaver Austin White
Coatney leaders guide by example and take effective action based upon thorough knowledge of a particular situation, with concern for the good of St. Martin’s students and the greater community as well. They give graciously of their time and skills, thus inspiring others to do likewise. This award is given to a junior student who is selected by the junior class from Upper School faculty nominations.
HEAD OF SCHOOL’S ACADEMIC AND ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Presented annually to the young man and young woman who have attained the highest academic average for the school year while lettering in two or more sports.
Alexandra Bartholomew and Bryce Monier
Brooke Willliamson
Juniors
Dylan Bryan Rickeia Coleman Tyler Falk Joseph Martin
THE COATNEY LEADERSHIP AWARD
THE O.E. HARING MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
This award is given to a junior student who has set an example of exemplary Christian citizenship on campus, making a significant contribution to the religious life of the school. The recipient is selected by the Head of School and the school clergy from nominations given by the Upper School faculty. Curry Cappel
THE MILDRED ELLIS HERRON MEMORIAL AWARD
Chosen by the Upper School faculty and administration, this award is given, in memory of Millie Herron ’88, to a senior girl who exemplifies an enthusiasm for life, school spirit, and true friendship not only to the St. Martin’s community but to the community at large. Madison Aucoin
THE GUSTAF R. WESTFELDT, JR. AWARD
Given to a sophomore student who is noted for attitude, effort, example, and service, this award honors a student chosen by the sophomore class from a list of Upper School faculty nominees. The recipient has shown outstanding service to the school and community out of a desire to be helpful, without thought of recognition or praise. Lillian Doskey
THE E.O. VAN SLATE SERVICE AWARD
Publicly recognizing the respect and affection of the faculty for their former Head of School, this award is given by the Head of School to a senior who has shown outstanding service to the school. Dante Bertucci-Ness
THE DR. W. BROOKS EMORY SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
This award is given to a sophomore who exemplifies “Faith, Scholarship and Service.” It was established by Dorothy Dorsa Porter, to honor Dr. Emory’s professional efforts and friendship. This legacy in her estate provides a modest scholarship for the recipient’s junior year.
GIRLS’/BOYS’ STATE RECOGNITION
Girls’ State Delegates
Heaven Barriere Julia Reggio Brooke Williamson
Boys’ State Delegates Curry Cappel Luke Jeanfreau Joseph Martin
THE UNIVERSITY AND COLLEGE BOOK AWARDS
Presented by Alumni Chapters of various institutions to outstanding members of the junior class THE COLUMBIA BOOK AWARD
Rickeia Coleman THE DARTMOUTH BOOK AWARD
Curry Cappel THE HARVARD BOOK AWARD
Dylan Bryan THE SEWANEE BOOK AWARD
Jeff Ganucheau THE WILLIAMS COLLEGE BOOK AWARD
Tyler Falk THE YALE BOOK AWARD
Joseph Martin
Rimi Mandal
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2013-2014 AWARDS 2014-2015 2015-2016
ATHLETICS
2015-2016 Athletic Awards
THE JUDY KETCHUM BAEHR AWARD
This award is given annually to the athletes who have distinguished themselves by lettering in three or more varsity sports during their senior year. Alex Happoldt, Kevin Bird, Ashley Bossier, Abbey Sims, Kailee Gibson, Antonio Imbornone, and Hampton Davis
Most Valuable Players and Most Improved Players
Major Awards
BASEBALL
Most Valuable Player
THE A.G. “TONY” PORTER AWARD
THE GLENN “ABE” MARTIN AWARD
THE ROBERT L. PETTIT AWARD
BASKETBALL, BOYS
Most Valuable Player
BASKETBALL, GIRLS
Most Valuable Player
CROSS COUNTRY, BOYS
Most Valuable Player
The Glenn “Abe” Martin award is presented annually to the male athlete selected by the Athletic Department staff who has demonstrated the highest ideals of leadership, character, spirit, and athletic achievement while participating in two or more varsity sports during the school year.
The Robert L. Pettit Award is presented annually to a female athlete selected by the Athletic Department who has demonstrated the highest ideals of leadership, character, spirit, and athletic achievement while participating in two or more varsity sports during the school year.
CROSS COUNTRY, GIRLS
Most Valuable Player
CHEERLEADING
Most Valuable Player
Commemorating St. Martin’s affection for and admiration of Tony “Chief ” Porter, this award is presented to male and female athletes of the track team, who are spirited and unafraid to take risks and try new events for the improvement of the team. They possess the qualities of dedication, commitment, and hard work. Alexandra Bartholomew and Charlie Kellum
Kevin Bird Kevin Bird
Abbey Sims
Antonio Imbornone Elise Lafleur
Jessica LeCoq
FOOTBALL (DEFENSE)
Most Valuable Player
FOOTBALL (OFFENSE)
Most Valuable Player
GOLF
Most Valuable Player
SOCCER, BOYS
Most Valuable Player
Hampton Davis Kevin Bird
Nick DellaCroce Luke Didriksen
SOCCER, GIRLS
Most Valuable Player
SOFTBALL
Most Valuable Player
SWIMMING, BOYS
Ashley Bossier Khaja Bradley
Most Valuable Player
Patrick Adams
SWIMMING, GIRLS
Most Valuable Player
TENNIS, BOYS
Most Valuable Player
TENNIS, GIRLS
Most Valuable Player
TRACK & FIELD, BOYS
Most Valuable Player
TRACK & FIELD, GIRLS
Most Valuable Player
VOLLEYBALL
Most Valuable Player
18 | Spring 2016
Abbey Sims
Jesse Reeves
Gifford Courtney
Antonio Imbornone
Chloe Bartholomew Ruby Reeves
Most Improved Player
Nick DellaCroce
Most Improved Player
Alex Thomas
Most Improved Player
Queen Tervalon
Most Improved Player
Benjamin Bone
Most Improved Player
Chloe Bartholomew
Most Improved Player
Julia Scofield
Antonio Imbornone
THE JAMES M. BURLINGAME AWARD
The James M. Burlingame Award is presented annually to the male athlete who has demonstrated superior athletic achievement and ability in two or more varsity sports during the school year.
Most Improved Player
Hakeem Blackstone
Most Improved Player
Jack Zheng
Most Improved Player
Kevin Bird
Jack Fleishmann
Alexandra Bartholomew
THE E. DOUGLAS JOHNSON AWARD
The E. Douglas Johnson Award is presented annually to the young woman selected by the Athletic Department who has demonstrated superior athletic achievement and ability in two or more varsity sports during the school year. Abbey Sims
Most Improved Player
Hampton Davis
Most Improved Player
Khaja Bradley
Most Improved Player
Lillian Doskey
Most Improved Player
Richard Whitney
Most Improved Player
Lainey Pickens
Most Improved Player
THE DAVE RICE AWARD
This award is presented each year to the senior boy and girl varsity athletes who have displayed the most caring attitude and devotion toward their teammates. Patrick Adams and Ashley Bossier
Luke Didriksen was one of 37 local high school football players recognized for achievement in the classroom and on the field by the Allstate Sugar Bowl Chapter of the National Football Foundation/College Football Hall of Fame. Luke also was named a Chevron Scholar Athlete of the Week by the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation Quarterback Club and was awarded a $5,000 scholarship. Luke Didriksen and StM Head Football Coach Scott Simpson at the Allstate Sugar Bowl Chapter Awards Luncheon.
Andy Chen
Most Improved Player
Sarah Millican
Most Improved Player
Samuel Kellum
Most Improved Player
Anabella Imbornone
THE JOE MOOTY AWARD
The Joe Mooty Award is presented annually to an underclassman who through his attitude and work ethic exhibits a love for the game of basketball. Barret Shepherd pictured with presenters, Tommy Merrick ’65 and Gayle Dalferes ’61.
Most Improved Player
Anastasia Campeau
The Bell | 19
UPPER SCHOOL ATHLETICS
WINTER SPORTS
SPRING SPORTS
BASKETBALL The Boys Basketball team, with a record of 16-12, advanced to the Bi-District round of the playoffs.
TRACK AND FIELD qualified six total runners to state. The boys team finished 7th place out of 26 total teams. In the 3200 meter, Antonio Imbornone and Samuel Kellum finished as the State Champion and State Runner-Up! Antonio was also the state runner-up in the 1600 meter. For the girls, Chloe Bartholomew earned 4th place in the 1600 meter and 5th place in the 3200 meter. In the girls 4 x 400m relay, the girls took 7th place. Relay team members were Alexandra Bartholomew, Anabella Imbornone, Isabella Bartholomew, and Chloe Bartholomew.
Our Girls Varsity team was small in number but showed toughness and grit on the court. Three players earned All-District Honorable Mention: Abbey Sims, Queen Tervalon and Gabby Killett. LACROSSE Varsity lacrosse was held together by a strong core of seniors. Dante Bertucci-Ness, senior goalie, kept the team in games and inspired his teammates. He will play lacrosse for Millsaps College next year.
SOFTBALL notched six wins in 2016, doubling their win total from the previous year. Malorie Saucier, Khaja Bradley, and Lillian Doskey earned 1st Team All-District, while Julia Scofield and Kailee Gibson earned 2nd Team.
earned 2nd team; and Ben Bone, Nick DellaCroce, and Jonathan Jones earned honorable mention. Kevin Bird earned honorable mention on the LSWA Class 1A All-State Baseball Team.
BASEBALL entered the season having to overcome the loss of eight seniors from the previous year. The team ended the regular season seeded 8th in the state, the highest seed for StM baseball since 2008. They advanced to the 2nd round of the playoffs. Eight players made the All-District roster. Kevin Bird, Hampton Davis, Alex Happoldt, and Kolby McWilliams earned 1st team, Raj Shah
GOLF team member Nick DellaCroce qualified for the state golf tournament and placed 22nd out of 48 golfers in the Division IV State Golf Tournament with a total score of 170. TENNIS saw not only solid play from the boys team but also the return of a girls team to StM. For the boys, Andy Chen qualified for the state tournament, while Gifford Courtney qualified for the girls.
SOCCER The Boys Soccer team, with a record of 8-11-2, advanced to the first round of the playoffs. Luke Didriksen was voted Player of the Week (Max Preps) and ranked second in the state in total saves. River Relan ranked second in the state in assists. The Girls Soccer team advanced to first round of the playoffs. INDOOR TRACK Antonio Imbornone finished 4th in the 1600m run with a season best time of 4:41.65. Samuel Kellum finished 12th in the 3200m run with a time of 11:07.71. The boys 4 x 800m relay team, consisting of Rico Coleman, Bennett Kahn, Samuel Kellum, and Antonio Imbornone, finished 9th with a time of 9:12.46.
20 | Spring 2016
The Bell | 21
MIDDLE SCHOOL SPORTS Winter and spring seasons were exciting for Middle
School athletics. As a member of the newly formed New Orleans Athletic League (NOAL), St. Martin’s played teams from across the greater New Orleans area. The highlight of the winter season was the success of the girls basketball teams. Each played in the Ivy League Tournament in their division. The “A” team (7th and 8th graders) had a 10-2 record and was the runner-up of the tournament, and the “B” team (5th and 6th graders) had an undefeated record of 9-0 and took home the winning trophy. Boys basketball “B” team, which consisted of 4th6th graders, was also successful with an overall record of 9-4. The “A” team, our 7th and 8th graders, had a record of 10-1. Both teams advanced to the championship round of the Metro League Tournament. Also, during the winter, both girls and boys soccer played matches against the new NOAL teams. In the spring, StM softball and baseball teams continued to grow and develop. The track and field students participated in the NOAL Track and Field Championships; the girls team finished 4th overall, with two students placing first in their events. In tennis, both girls and boys achieved wins, with one girls doubles team making it to the NOAL/Ivy League Championships.
WELCOME
ST. MARTIN’S GOLF TOURNAMENT
SAVE THE DATE! Friday, November 4, 2016 Check-In/Brunch 9:30 am Shotgun Start 11 am Awards Reception 4 pm Cypress Lakes Country Club at Ormond 10 Villere Drive, Destrehan, LA 70047 (985) 764-6868 For registration or sponsorship information contact: Lisa.Davis@stmsaints.com / (504) 736-9960 Register at stmsaints.com/golf
2016 22 | Spring 2016
WELCOME
ATHLETICS Kevin Weatherill, Head of Upper School
St. Martin’s welcomes Kevin Weatherill to the role of Head of Upper
School beginning with the 2016-17 school year. Kevin brings a wealth of experience, balance, and curricular knowledge to the position, along with a passion for working with students, teachers, and parents.
Kevin previously served as the Director of College Counseling at St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile, Alabama, where he was also a member of the school’s leadership team. He earned his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Organization at Vanderbilt University. He received his undergraduate degree from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, and his master’s degree from Middlebury College in Middlebury, Vermont. In addition to his fourteen years of experience as a teacher, counselor, and school administrator, Weatherill has extensive experience coaching crosscountry, track & field, and basketball. Sue Bower, Athletic Director St. Martin’s has tapped veteran athletic administration professional
Sue Bower as Director of Athletics. Sue brings an impressive array of experience from her twenty-year tenure with Tulane Athletics. She was Head Women’s Golf Coach from 1992-2006. Since then, Sue served in various departmental leadership capacities, most recently as Associate Athletic Director/Senior Woman Administrator, and was a member of the Athletic Department Executive Team. She also served as the Executive Director for the Kate and Bob Devlin S-AFE Center for Leadership Development.
Sue is a graduate of Dartmouth College and a native of Hanover, New Hampshire. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including Coach of the Year awards from the National Golf Coaches Association (East Region Coach of the Year), the LPGA (Central Divison Coach of the Year), and the Louisiana Sportswriters Association. In 2011, the Tulane Greenbackers awarded her its first ever Distinguished Service Award, which now bears her name. Sue serves on the Board of Directors of The First Tee of Greater New Orleans, a youth development program that teaches life skills and leadership through golf.
Pat LaForge, Middle and Lower School Athletics/ Physical Education Coordinator
St. Martin’s is excited to welcome Pat LaForge as Middle and Lower
School Athletics/Physical Education Coordinator. A graduate of the University of New Orleans, Pat has spent the previous 18 years as Middle School Athletic Director at Stuart Hall. He brings over 20 years of coaching and physical education experience to his new role.
The Bell | 23
N
FEATURE STORY
New York Times columnist Frank Bruni offers his antidote to the frenzy in Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be, profiling some highly successful people who earned their degrees from state flagships, city colleges, and second-tier private institutions. Bruni argues that what one does in college is more important than where one goes to college. If one completes an internship, leads student groups, invents something, or conducts original research, the climb up the CEO ladder is underway.
The Evolution of College Counseling By Deborah Flanagan, Director of College Counseling
The field of college admission counseling has changed dramatically in the last generation as competition at America’s elite colleges has intensified. In some communities, the pressure now begins before birth, with expectant parents vying for spots in the best pre-schools in search of a direct path to the Ivy League. Their children’s lives are micromanaged as part of a long-term admission strategy. For some teens, the pressure to achieve application perfection has been too much to bear, with psychological impacts and, most tragically, sometimes fatal consequences. It does not have to be this way.
24 | Spring 2016
Bruni is only partly right. Nothing in this process matters more than the soul-searching required to identify the right academic, social, and financial fit. This emphasis on fit relieves top students of the burden to impress their friends with increasingly exclusive brand-name colleges. It absolves parents of the need to measure their success by the rankings of the schools that offered admission to their child. Best of all, it identifies the institutions that offer the student the most value for those expensive tuitions. Securing the right college fit is the best way to ensure that students attain the experiential learning Bruni recommends. Research by the NSSE Institute for Effective Educational Practice shows that engagement in the college learning community is a key to future success, but it is difficult to engage in a community where one is unhappy. Where one goes to college is of the utmost importance. At St. Martin’s, we take pride in our individualized approach to the college search, which, year after year, produces impressive and diverse matriculation lists. Our graduates scatter to schools across the United States and beyond, including Canada, Israel, Italy, and Scotland. Many go to highly selective audition- or portfolio-based admission programs, like UCLA and Emerson College. We celebrate their generous merit awards from Drexel University and the University of Miami as much as we revel in their admission to Harvard and Stanford, which offer no academic scholarships. In this age of concern over college debt, an annual average of approximately one-third of our graduates enter LSU,
College counseling at St. Martin's extends to the course registration process and advisory system. Beginning in 8th grade, we tailor students' academic schedules to suit their unique strengths and encourage deep involvement in their areas of interest.
which currently offers a tuition-free education to nearly every student; few earn admission who aren’t also TOPS eligible. As LSU becomes more selective, now officially requiring a 3.0 GPA and ACT score of 22, students who perform well in St. Martin’s rigorous curriculum can easily
The Bell | 25
FEATURE STORY
The Director of College Counseling invites each junior's family to a private meeting to formulate the student's college plan.
gain admission. Thanks to the strength of our curriculum and in-house test prep from Alex Gershanik of Power Courses, every graduate in our Class of 2016 had the ACT scores to qualify for TOPS. Several LSU-bound graduates had the credentials to earn additional merit scholarships and admission to the Honors College. The seniors’ average ACT composite score of 27 exceeds the Louisiana average of 19, making them competitive far beyond the state’s borders. Regardless of where they enroll, our students will continue to build upon the strong academic foundations they laid at St. Martin’s. They might follow in the footsteps of some of our other young alumni who have made meaningful impacts on and beyond their college campuses. Perhaps they’ll lead an expedition to Latin America as president of their college chapter of Engineers Without Borders, win national coding competitions, or complete a coveted internship at Starbucks’ corporate headquarters. The possibilities are exciting and endless. This is what the college search should be about: adventure and exploration. Deborah Flanagan, StM’s Director of College Guidance, works closely with students throughout the college application process.
A representative from the University of St. Andrew's in Scotland was one of approximately 75 college recruiters to visit with St. Martin's juniors and seniors this year.
Yet, our society and the media conspire to stress our kids and their parents over the college race. The college application process itself is designed to maximize the numbers of applications. Over 600 institutions accept the Common Application, which students can complete on nearly any device from any location. As a result, member colleges have seen their applications skyrocket, while their admission rates plummet correspondingly. Today, about two dozen schools have an admission rate below 10%, and nearly all of those are Common App members. It is no coincidence that admission rates have decreased as access to technology has increased. Another culprit in the mania is the U.S. News and World Report college ranking, which gained influence in the
mid-1980s. It falsely communicates that a college’s value is based on its selectivity rather than on the quality of its graduates. College administrators closely monitor their institutions’ rank, which can affect their bond ratings and, thus, their ability to borrow for major projects. A student might present a compelling application, but if his score doesn’t make the cut for the desired rank, that application may not be fully evaluated. To get noticed, it needs a “hook” (for example an alumni legacy, athletic recruitment, a unique talent, or a demographic profile that helps shape the desired class). There are other forces at work. An increasing proportion of high school graduates today seek college degrees as the path to economic prosperity, if not survival. Populations that might not have considered college in prior generations apply themselves to the process with zeal. Add to these long-term trends more recent changes which the Class of 2017 will be the first to confront, including a redesigned SAT, a new application platform, and earlier financial aid deadlines. Our children’s college admission journeys will be far more complex and competitive than the experiences we remember. In order to expand our support for students in this climate of change, we announce the fall 2016 opening of the new College Counseling Center, where Tiffany DuSaules will serve as the Registrar and Assistant College Counselor. The CCC will be a showpiece of the student-centered philosophy that frames the St. Martin’s experience. Our goal, as always, will be to get to know our students as they are now and hope to become. We will encourage them to focus on the adventure that the college search should be, and expose them to the opportunities that await them.
THE EMPOWERED APPLICANT SUMMER WORKSHOP The college application process inconveniently coincides with the busiest months of the school year. Seniors are challenged to take the most rigorous courses available and fill their extracurricular schedules with demanding activities, while they simultaneously manage their complicated applications. St. Martin’s Director of College Counseling, Deborah Flanagan, developed a curriculum that guides students through the process early and arms them with the knowledge they need to tie up loose ends in the fall. During the twenty-hour summer workshop, students create effective essays, quality resumes, and spreadsheets of deadlines and requirements. They gain confidence that they can handle the rest of the process, including interviews and supplemental essays. The popular workshop attracts students from schools across the city for the peace it brings to seniors’ minds and homes during what might otherwise be the most stressful period in their lives to date. They are free to enjoy their last year of high school with the burden of their applications behind them. The 2016 workshop will be offered July 25 August 5 from 10 a.m. - noon and from 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. For more information or to register, visit stmsaints.com/camp or call (504) 736-9925.
CLASS OF 2016
Congratulations CLASS of 2016
Patrick Adams Jorge Alsina Ashton Angelle Brisbin Anthony Madison Aucoin Dante Bertucci-Ness Kevin Bird Ashley Bossier Anastasia Campeau Joshua Castaneda Andy Chen Beau Cole 28 | Spring 2016
Louisiana State University University of Louisiana, Lafayette Belmont Univeristy Louisiana State University Southeastern Louisiana University Millsaps College Louisiana State University Louisiana State University DePaul University Southeastern Louisiana University The Ohio State University University of San Francisco
Madison Cummings Hampton Davis Luke Didriksen Cheyenne Dwyer Miles Encalarde Ashley Garrido Kailee Gibson Charlotte Goudail Alexander Happoldt Ashton Harris Annemarie Hasney GiGi Herberg
Tulane University Louisiana State University University of Miami Drexel University University of Louisiana, Lafayette Louisiana State University University of Alabama Louisiana State University Louisiana State University Louisiana State University Spring Hill College Hobart & William Smith College
Antonio Imbornone Madison Kahn Helena Lazich Jessica LeCoq Betzy Liriano Belin Manalle David Miller Bo Molbert Jaclyn Murphy Hayden Nugent Ian Ottinger
University of Georgia Louisiana State University University of Redlands Louisiana State University Hollins University Rhodes College Louisiana State University University of Louisiana, Lafayette University of Alabama Louisiana State University Emerson College
WanYah Phelps Gabriel Rodriguez-Sotomayor Rahul Sadhwani Stephen Sandel Raj Shah Abigail Sims Queen Tervalon Alexander Thomas Julia Weaver Austin White Jack Zheng
Spring Hill College Undecided Witchita State University Louisiana State Univeristy Loyola University, New Orleans University of Alabama Clark Atlanta University Belmont University Louisiana State University Louisiana State University Johns Hopkins University The Bell | 29
CLASS OF 2016
CLASS OF 2016
Baccalaureate Message: Called to Lead
Commencement Address: Be an Artist
Michelle Scandurro, Head of Upper School
Allison Thomas, Upper School Art Teacher
The St. Martin’s Board of Trustees hosted the annual Baccalaureate service on the evening of Wednesday, May 25, in recognition of the Class of 2016. Friends and families of the graduates gathered in the Dan and Frances White Chapel as the prelude was played on the organ. The president of the Board, Stephen Huber ’89, welcomed guests before the service began. The officiant for the evening was The Rt. Rev. Morris K. Thompson, Jr., Diocesan Bishop of Louisiana. Chris Shipman (Upper School English teacher) and Tiffany DuSaules (Upper School Administrative Assistant) served as readers. During the service, seniors gave two musical performances: Madison Aucoin and Ashton Angelle performed first, then later in the evening the senior members of the choir sang “Do You Know What it Means to Miss New Orleans?” Following the service, the Board hosted a reception in Saints Hall where the Art Department displayed pieces crafted by members of the Class of 2016.
watched and learned--as teacher, as department chair, as principal--learned from the greats: Mrs. Klebba, Mrs. Quinet, Mrs. Beckman, Dr. Rosenbaum, Coach McGeehan, Mr. Marsalis, Dr. Aguiar. Here at St. Martin’s, I developed my own ideas about what a great leader is.
The 2016 Graduation Ceremony was lovely, as always. Families gathered on the campus of Tulane University at McCallister Auditorium. After the faculty processed down the aisle in academic regalia, the class of 2016 entered, to the excitement of the crowd.
felt a satisfaction and a longing to do more. I can say that it was love at first touch. I was intrigued by the way clay responds to touch and that I could control the movement of a piece with my actions. It amazed me that my fingerprints would be forever embedded in the clay.
And of course we hope that you’ve grown a lot at St. Martin’s. Academically, I hope we’ve challenged you to enjoy learning new things and expanding your mind. I hope we’ve pushed you to see yourselves as leaders. And most importantly, I hope we’ve inspired growth of character, because without integrity, nothing else matters.
Allison Thomas joined St. Martin’s in 2005 as an Upper School art teacher. She is now the chair of the Fine Arts Department. She has implemented an Art Retreat and Art Show for the advanced placement students, and started a raku firing which has now become an annual occurrence. She has helped students host a fine arts week for the community. Over her years at St. Martin’s, she has earned the respect and affection of both students and colleagues. _____________________________________
As I progressed in the class, I became entranced by the wheel and made it my mission to master the technique. Now, this is not something that comes easily. It did not happen overnight; it took years of dedication to doing the process over and over and over. And, for the first time in my life, I knew that this was what I should be doing. So, off I went, into the world of clay. I was persistent and joyful in my quest for an art career.
The evening's sermon was given by outgoing Upper School Head Michelle Scandurro. During her time at St. Martin’s she has been many things to many people: a teacher, an inspiration, a leader, and a friend. She will be missed. _____________________________________
“I believe we are ALL called to be leaders in our communities, in different ways. If you see yourself as a servantleader in everything you do, I believe your life will be successful.”
Good evening, Class of 2016, and to your friends and families! I’ve grown a lot at St. Martin’s. I came here in 2002 for a good job teaching English. I had taught for five years before coming to St. Martin’s, but I’d always craved a culture of more intellectual challenge. I wanted to work with colleagues whom I admired. I really didn’t think they’d hire me; St. Martin’s was such a prestigious school, and Mrs. Klebba runs a serious interview. But I got the job, and LOVED teaching here. I loved getting to know the students and teachers. It was my dream job; I got to become a learner along with my students. I took Mrs. Thomas’ pottery class for adults, and ruined a bowl or two. She was so patient with me! At St. Martin’s, I acted for the first time; I played Calpurnia in our production of Julius Caesar; Dr. Ramos played my husband, Caesar. He was so patient with me, too. I think I was learning more than I was teaching, and I was teaching a lot. As the years went by, I became more and more interested in how things worked behind the classroom, how policies shaped our daily lives, and how our community evolved through different collective experiences. Here at St. Martin’s I became a student of leadership, without realizing it. And I
I don’t have a final exam, or a graduation ceremony, so I want to share with you, here in the chapel where I’ve spent so many spiritual moments, what I’ve learned about leadership at St. Martin’s, and hope that just a few of my thoughts might inspire you. As you know, I believe we are ALL called to be leaders in our communities, in different ways. If you see yourself as a servant-leader in everything you do, I believe your life will be successful. My thoughts about leadership are probably counter-culture, for the United States, at least. But this is a sermon, so I’ll share one of the most influential stories of leadership on my life: Moses. I’ve referred to Moses’ call to leadership at the burning bush in previous sermons, but this occasion calls for us to consider it more closely. Out of the midst of a miracle, God asked Moses to lead his people out of slavery, away from oppression. Clearly, the people desperately needed leadership, and this position would be quite an honor. Moses was just a shepherd, and he didn’t even own his own sheep; he was working for his father-in-law. This was the promotion of a lifetime!! A major step up. BUT Moses responded to God: “Who am I to do this?” God encouraged Moses, promised to be with him the whole time. But Moses resisted again. “What am I going to say when the people don’t believe me?” So God gave him words to say. Moses protested a third time. “They’ll never believe me.” God promised He’d perform miracles, and even did a few right there to prove it to Moses. Finally, out of excuses, Moses exposed the root of his insecurity. He said, “I’m not eloquent—I’m slow of speech.” Some biblical scholars think that Moses had a stutter. How could he be a leader, give grandiose speeches, and command the respect of thousands of his people, much less the Egyptian government? Impossible. He actually said to GOD: “Send someone else.” At first glance, it seems like a reasonable reaction...
This speech can be read in its entirety at www.stmsaints.com/graduation2016. 30 | Spring 2016
Good evening! I am so honored that the class of 2016 has asked me to speak. Thank you, seniors. My earliest memory of making art was making mudpies. Although mudpies are not necessarily considered an art form, I remember the satisfaction and the tangible qualities of the mud in my hands. For those of you who have no idea what a mudpie is, it is simply dirt and water. I would mix it up and form a workable consistency to be able to shape it in my hands. It may seem strange, but we didn’t have X-Boxes, cellphones, streaming capabilities, or DVR. This is what I did for hours, making cakes, pies, and bowls with mud. But I quickly forgot these techniques as I progressed through my years in school. I grew up in a small town and went to a high school very much like St. Martin’s in Franklinton, Louisiana — Bowling Green High School. I excelled in my classes and thoroughly enjoyed high school life, but had no formal art class there. I was very involved in my school and all that went along with it. However, when posed with that question: “What do you want to do with your life?”, I was noncommittal. I really had no idea. In college, I declared my major as undeclared. I was searching for the one thing that I was put on this earth to do. As my freshman year rolled in and out, I had a great time, but still no inspiration or pivotal moment that called me to a career. Then, in my sophomore year, I took a design class and felt a spark. I decided that this was my thing, something in art. But, even better, I then took a ceramics class, and felt that connection. Just like with the mudpies, I
I think the best thing about being young is that you have no idea what is possible or impossible. I viewed my art career as absolutely possible, as a mountain. Every job I took and every decision I made should take me further up the mountain. Sometimes I stumbled, made a wrong choice, but realized that it is all part of the path to the top of the mountain. I still don’t know what is exactly on that mountain top. I thought I knew, but life throws you some curves in the road. I thought I had a well-designed plan for my life and career once I got that spark in the art department at Baylor University. But life is funny and I quickly realized that I am not completely in control. After what I thought was the culmination of my journey, owning my own clay studio and business, I found I was wrong. The journey wasn’t over. I sold my business, after having my second son, and launched into a career of teaching art. It was a risk, a blow, and my future seemed a bit uncertain at the time. What I realized was that the trek was not over. So, look, I know it’s not about me, it’s about you, but just know that it’s okay to not know what you want to do with your life right now. You’ll figure it out.
“Minimize your mistakes. I’m not saying you won’t make them, because you will. Just try to keep them at a minimum. Learn from other people’s mistakes, as well as your own.”
I’ve realized several things on my journey up the mountain so far. Some life lessons that I would like to impart: Failure is an opportunity. At the time, it can seem like you have lost, but consider it a chance to make yourself better. This happens every day in the art studio: you’re trimming on the wheel, but instead of pushing the pedal off, you push it full speed, sending your piece flying across the room. Yes, it is heartbreaking, but I always say, and believe, that the next piece will be better. This happens all the time, by the way. The next one will be better, you know how to do it now...
This speech can be read in its entirety at www.stmsaints.com/graduation2016. The Bell | 31
CLASS OF 2016
CLASS OF 2016
Salutatorian Reflects on the Help of Others
Valedictorian Shows the Class of 2016 Has Heart
Madison Kahn, Class of 2016
Abbey Sims, Class of 2016
The Class of 2016 salutatorian, Madison Kahn, joined the St. Martin’s community as an eighth grader. She is a member of the Cum Laude Society as well as the National Honor Society. As a senior, she received the Eileen Beckman English Award and the Rev. John Stone Jenkins Citizenship Award. During all four years of Upper School, she was a member of the Key Club and volunteered with Animal Rescue New Orleans. Additionally, she was a member of the Track and Field team. Madison has plans to attend Louisiana State University in the fall and has been accepted into the Honors College. She is interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy. ______________________________________________________________________________
Abbey Sims started her St. Martin’s career in kindergarten and is a member of the StM 13-Year Club. At St. Martin’s she was named a Belle Johnson Scholar and a Bishop Brown Scholar. During her time in Upper School she has been an active member of her community. She is a member of the National Honor Society. She was a class representative for Student Council and president of that organization her senior year. She was also president of the Film Club and the Key Club. As a three-sport athlete, she was the recipient of the Judy Ketchum Baehr Award. She was also named the MVP for girls basketball and swimming her senior year and awarded the E. Douglas Johnson Award. Also in her senior year, she was selected as captain of the swim team. Abbey Sims will attend the University of Alabama Honors College on a National Merit Finalist Scholarship. _____________________________________
Good evening, everyone. Today is a day we’ve been looking forward to for a very long time now. Throughout high school, we’ve been planning our next step in life. We’ve been anxious to graduate and be able to experience the world in a new way. As we’ve navigated through the process of choosing a college, we’ve had to think extensively about our futures and really begin to figure out what we want to do with our lives. High school has been a time of learning and maturing, and we’re now ready to use what we’ve learned throughout our time and experience at St. Martin’s in order to find success in college and ultimately in our careers and personal lives afterwards. We have learned many things, such as how to write a proper editorial, how to solve related rates in calculus, and perhaps most importantly, how to succeed as both an individual and as part of a team. There is no way we could’ve reached the end of high school without help from others. We have to thank our teachers for not only teaching us from the syllabus, but for also teaching us lessons that will remain with us throughout our lives. I remember sitting in Mr. Shipman’s and Mrs. Klebba’s English classes, where we were told to peer edit each other’s papers after every draft. At the time, we were all thinking, as Bartleby the Scrivener would, “I would prefer not to.” Looking back on it, though, that process taught us how to take on an individual project and accept input from others at the same time. Mrs. Quinet assigned us countless presentations that, although not always our favorites, allowed us to work together and teach one another. Thanks to Dr. Vaccaro, we’ll be able to figure out how to feed ourselves in college. Somehow, with individual determination and the assistance of others, we’ve wound up on this stage today, ready to present the people we’ve become to the world. The difference between failure and success is preparation. As much as our academic curriculum has prepared us to take on the future, our family and friends have also prepared us. They have helped to keep us humble and determined throughout the years, which are qualities that will absolutely help us in our future undertakings. It is through our backgrounds as students, children, grandchildren, siblings, and friends that we are able to stand up here today and feel confident that we are prepared to take on the world and accomplish anything we set our minds to. I know I speak for all of us when I say that we are extremely excited to see what opportunities the future holds for us. Thank you, and I wish the best of luck to the Class of 2016.
Good evening, classmates, friends, family, and faculty. When I was looking for ideas for this commencement speech, I was told to speak from the heart. My mind went straight to the literal interpretation, and I thought about the heart inside of us and the role it plays in our lives. The heart is an amazing organ—it is responsible for pumping blood, the fluid that keeps us going, throughout the body. We’ve all been told just how much of a family St. Martin’s is and we’ve all heard the phrase “blood is thicker than water.” We, the Class of 2016, understand the truth of these two concepts because we are like family flowing with a collective heart. The relationships we have created with each other over our years together are the strongest and some of the most important. And the closeness we have formed is something we’ll truly never forget. We’re able to laugh, make fun of each other, and call each other names—just look at our group text messages. But we’re also capable of coming together to support one another when one of us needs help—drowning Brisbin’s golf cart in a six-foot hole is a good example of our foolishness, but this action also demonstrates how well we can work together since we were able to get it out so quickly. Just as each of our hearts constantly beats today, we can look ahead to forging friendships with new people and building on the ones we've already made. We can be confident that these are waters we can navigate because, fellow classmates, we represent the blood in this heart of St. Martin’s that has been structured to provide us a safe place to grow. Consider the four chambers of the heart—two small atria and two large ventricles. The atria have thin walls and remind me of our underclassman years when we were learning our way around the high school, figuring out who we wanted to be, and adjusting to our new schedules. We made mistakes, big and small (one such being the first class to get banned from
the Peyton Center). Despite our slip-ups, though, we knew how to learn from them and fix the issues. The two bigger ventricles have thicker walls that make me think of our time as upperclassmen. We had heavier workloads and greater responsibilities, but all of that was accompanied by more experience. It was time to get it together because we would have important decisions to make for our futures. Each chamber prepares the blood to be pushed to the next destination just as each grade has important traditions to prepare students for the next. The first critical step to becoming an official “high schooler” our freshmen year was to sign the book at the matriculation ceremony. Next, sophomore experience, or whatever it was that we had, allowed us to explore the city with each other. We stepped up to the plate junior year and on Ring Day we adopted the role of the leaders of the Upper School. And finally, Senior Chapel gave us the opportunity to reflect on everything we have done as a class and allowed us to trace our individual transformations. The blood relies on four special valves in the heart that control healthy blood circulation. The valves in our heart of St. Martin’s represent the faculty, parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, and friends who have helped us when we were in need. To you, we express our gratitude and we hope that we shall always merit the confidence you have had in us. Just as the valves in the heart, you open up to let us move forward and close behind us to keep us from falling backward. Yes, even you, Dr. Ramos, qualify for this description. For those who don’t know Dr. Ramos and how much he appreciated my Latin IV class, he put all of the assignments we scored poorly on in a sectioned-off portion of his board we dubbed the “Fridge of Failure.” He didn’t do this to be mean, though; we had already been making fun of ourselves. This Fridge was rather embarrassing, but it really motivated us to want to do well. Even if we had a rough week and earned a spot on the Fridge, Dr. Ramos would still give us candy on Fridays. It is small traditions like this that made class enjoyable. The heart does its work to prepare the blood for the rest of the body, just as St. Martin’s has prepared us for the world. The blood circulates throughout the body, making it possible for other organs to thrive. As we, the blood in the heart of St. Martin’s, move on, we will use our talents and what St. Martin’s has taught us to find our purpose and become successful contributors in everything we do. By doing our best to live up to the standards practiced in this institution, we hope to develop into well-rounded people spiritually, physically, and mentally.
After traveling through the body, blood always returns to the heart. St. Martin’s will always be our heart, but now, friends of the graduating Class of 2016, the time is here when we must bid farewell to St. Martin’s. We have a new beginning ahead of us, new roads to travel, new fields of endeavor for each of us. We shall, no doubt, come in contact with each other and our school after graduation, but there can never be the same feeling of unity which we have felt during our high school years. With that said, St. Martin’s will forever be our home. “Home,” after all, is where the heart is! Thank you, and good luck Class of 2016!
The Bell | 33
CLASS OF 2016
MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2016 WERE ACCEPTED BY THE FOLLOWING INSTITUTIONS: The University of Alabama (Honors College) The University of Arizona Auburn University Baylor University Belmont University Boston University Bradley University University of California, Davis University of California, San Diego University of California, Santa Barbara Case Western Reserve University The Catholic University of America University of Central Florida College of Charleston University of Cincinnati Clark Atlanta University Clemson University (Calhoun Honors College) DePaul University Drexel University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Emerson College Florida Institute of Technology Florida Southern College Florida State University Fordham University Fort Lewis College Furman University The George Washington University The University of Georgia
Guilford College High Point University Hobart and William Smith Colleges Hollins University Howard University Johns Hopkins University University of Kentucky Lehigh University Liberty University Louisiana College Louisiana State University (Honors College) Louisiana Tech University University of Louisiana at Lafayette Loyola University New Orleans Lynn University University of Massachusetts, Amherst McNeese State University University of Miami Millsaps College University of Mississippi University of New Orleans Oglethorpe University The Ohio State University Oral Roberts University Pace University University of Redlands Rhodes College Roanoke College Rollins College
Rutgers University-New Brunswick Saint Louis University University of San Diego University of San Francisco Santa Clara University Savannah College of Art and Design University of South Carolina Southeastern Louisiana University Southern Methodist University University of Southern Mississippi Southwestern University Spelman College Spring Hill College St. Edward’s University St. Mary’s University of San Antonio Suffolk University The University of Tampa University of Tennessee, Knoxville Texas Christian University The University of Texas, Austin Trinity University Tulane University Wake Forest University Wartburg College Weber State University Westmont College Whittier College Wichita State University Wofford College The College of Wooster
Bold indicates 2016 graduate attending.
THE
CLASS OF 2016 BY THE NUMBERS
1735 Mean SAT score on 2400 scale
271
Applications submitted
71%
will attend college on merit-based scholarships
27
Mean ACT score on a 36 scale
24
different institutions will welcome 2016 StM graduates
17 will be the only students from the Class of 2016 to attend their college
15 Number of states in which our graduates will attend college
6 Average number of applications sumitted per graduate
3.080 Mean GPA on a 4.0 scale
40% will attend 4-year private institutions.
60% will attend 4-year public institutions.
50% will attend institutions out of state.
34 | Spring 2016
50% will attend institutions in Louisiana.
The Bell | 35
ANNUAL FUND
Think Back, Give Back. Our faculty are experts in their fields, and When StM alums come back to campus, they always they do much express how well-prepared they were for college. Time and again we have heard alums say they are editing papers more than just for their peers and that their classes are covering material deliver content. that they had already learned while at StM. And, while They inspire, we all know that parents and family members play a huge challenge, role in making sure their children are college bound, and motivate I think most of us, myself included, would agree that each student teachers are the ones who make them college-ready. to be his/her I am amazed and gratified when I hear stories about what personal best. our students are learning and the incredible ways that our teachers are training, mentoring, and guiding them through their academic careers—and the best part is, the students usually are enjoying it! A message from Director of Development Lisa Davis
The Honor A Teacher campaign is your chance to give a gift in honor of that special StM teacher, coach, or staff member who made a difference in your life. When you send your gift of $25 or more, tell us something special about the person you want to honor, and we’ll share your sentiments with the honoree in a personal letter. Honorees’ names (living or deceased) will be posted on our website and featured in The Bell, Fall 2016. Honor a Teacher today by going to www.stmsaints.com/give or using the enclosed reply envelope.
Our faculty are experts in their fields, and they do much more than just deliver content. They inspire, challenge, and motivate each student to reach his/her personal best. I see it myself with my own children. Learning isn’t always fun, and it is in those moments that our teachers shine. What our faculty possess in talent and training, they equal in support and commitment to their students. They are patient, kind, and loving, and they embody our mission of “faith, scholarship, and service.” As you flip through the pages of this issue of The Bell and see all of the incredible things happening on our campus, the accomplishments of our students, and the wonderful future that awaits St. Martin’s, perhaps you’ll remember a special StM teacher who motivated you, encouraged you, and maybe even changed your life.
36 | Spring 2016
The TheBell Bell || 37
ALUMNI THE LEGACY SPOTLIGHT SOCIETIES MEMBERS OF THE LEGACY SOCIETIES OF ST. MARTIN’S Mrs. Margaret Stainbach Adams ’75 Mrs. Carol Appel Senator Conrad Appel Mr. Brian Bossier ’78 Mr. John D. and Mrs. Karon Brenes Broadbent ’61 Mrs. Margaret Dannenberg Bossier ’78 Mr. Alan Brackett Mrs. Linda Eckles Brackett Rev. Daryl Canfill * Mrs. Lynn Coatney Mr. Michael Coatney Mrs. Ethel G. Coupland* Mr. Sean Daly Mr. John DeMartini ’80 Mrs. Sandra DeMartini Mr. F. Otway Denny Mrs. Beth Hughes DePass ’79 The Rev. Fred Devall IV ’87
Endowment and Special Funds St. Martin’s Family Endowment
Over the years, St. Martin’s has received gifts from donors to the school’s endowment for specific purposes such as scholarships, faculty professional development, student aid, Episcopal identity, academics, and more. The St. Martin’s Family Endowment includes the restricted and unrestricted funds outlined below. The school’s goal is to continue to increase the size of the endowment through additional scholarship funds, special purpose funds, and planned gifts. Please contact the Development Office at (504) 736-9960 for more information. Scholarship Funds Alumni Financial Aid Fund Barbara H. Ryan Fund Billie Walters Memorial Fund Dorothy Dorsa Porter Scholarship Fund Faculty Recognition Scholarship Funds The Lewis Lagniappe Fund for Students Gustaf Westfeldt, Jr. Award Rigdon Family Scholarship Fund Ruth U. Fertel Foundation Scholarship Fund Tad Huber Memorial Scholarship Fund W. Brooks Emory Scholarship Fund
The Rev. Dr. Dee Dee Estes Mr. Lawrence Gibbs
Unrestricted Funds Family Endowment Green Acres Fund Tony Porter Memorial Fund
Placed
2nd
overall in the
State High School Science Olympiad and placed
3rd
overall at the Middle School level
Award Funds Audrey B. Michaud Scholarship Fund * Belle Johnson Scholars Foundation * Godiwala Fellowship for Innovation in Education Haring Road Fund Mildred Ellis Herron Fund Moseley Fund Reisch Teacher Fund Plant Funds Haring Road Fund
Mrs. Marian Gibbs
35 teams nationally named as Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam finalists
StM’s 2016
graduates
were accepted into
90
Mr. John Girault ’55 Mrs. Murrell Girault Dr. Tejas Godiwala Mr. John Graham
St. Martin’s Board of Trustees Faculty Recognition Scholarship Fund
Mr. Peter Hagan* Ms. Jan M. Hayden Mr. Tom Huber* Mr. Tim Hurley Mr. Hans A.B. Jonassen ’58 Mr. John P. Labouisse ’60* Mrs. Meredith Labouisse* Mr. Dan LeGardeur ’69 Mr. Jon King Mayer* Mrs. Mary Anne O’Neil Mrs. Anthony Porter* Mrs. Mary Sue Roniger ’60 Mrs. Charlotte Smith* Mr. Gary N. Solomon, Sr. Mr. Doyle Spell ’52 Mrs. Billie Poag Walters ’63 Dr. Susan Wilkie
This scholarship was established in May 2007 by St. Martin’s Board of Trustees as special recognition for the long service of certain retiring faculty members. Proceeds from the fund are awarded to students based on academic merit and financial need. The 2016 honorees are: Margaret Budde, Ginny Hoffmann, and Winnie Wendel. Additional honorees are Dianne Greer, Stephenie Pittman, Pedro Perez, Gloria Siegel, Susan Godchaux, Betsy Kaston ’72, Sue Shaw, Carolyn Busenlener, Linda Trevino, Linda Trotter, Jim Marsalis ’62, Rex Mooney, Chick McGeehan, Doris Baron, Eileen Beckman, Jane Guillory, Cheryl Resignola, Jane Caine, Julie Dieth, Tina Hintz, Susan Pansano ’66, Janis McCormick, Vicki Johnson, and Michelle Snow.
8 students + 4 faculty members
traveled to 5 Chinese cities (Beijing, Tianjin, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Hangzhou) for 2 weeks involving students in authentic global education.
4
students named to the American Choral Directors Association State Honor Choir
StM was one of
*Are not housed within the St. Martin’s Family Endowment.
Educational Purpose Funds Christian Life Fund
Mr. Michael A. Flick
MPOWERED BY YOUR GIFTS
different universities and colleges
19
athletic teams competed this year, with
Boys Cross Country team
8 WON
teams qualifying for divisional and state playoffs
THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP,
Girls Cross Country team TOOK STATE RUNNER-UP
INVESTED OVER
$100,000
IN FACULTY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
*deceased
38 || Spring Spring2016 2016
The Bell | 39
ONSOR
SCO EVENTS
SCO EVENTS
GOLF TOURNAMENT Presented by
THANK YOU, SPONSORS! St. Martin's Board of Trustees |
ConstructionInnovation and Design | StM supporters came out by the hundreds for the annual spring Caingala, Celebration, Solomon Group | Gian Durand | presented by Gulf Coast Bank. Innovation Celebration was chosen as the event’s theme in Annie and Wesley Palmisano | Donovan and Lawler Law Firm | recognition of the school’s emphasis on creativity and critical thinking in 21st century learning, including the highly anticipated opening this fall of the Gibbs Family Center for Innovation + Design, which will be the most comprehensive school-based design thinking and maker space in the region. Patron Party Sponsor
Entertainment Sponsor
Event Experience Sponsor Gala Bar Sponsor
Patron Party Bar Sponsor Patron Gift Sponsor
PLATINUM SPONSOR
STM SUPPORTERS
Malena and Matthew Lepetich MedLogic
John and Angele Alvendia Lauren and Roby Arensman '91 Dena Bach and Parker Waters Catherine and Richard Barnett Robin and Mark Bone Doris and Tommy Bryan Valerie and Chuck Corcoran '88 Erica and Patrick Costello Lisa and Bret Davis Lisa and Fred Devall Brenda and Carl Ducote Melissa and Alex Fein Ashley Salge and Freda Freeman Leslie and Randy Gaspard Donna and Rob Glenn Mary and David Halpern Shannon and Stephen Huber '89 Trudy and Tim Hurley Christine and Stephen Jones/ JJ's Diner Nicole and Stephen LaCoste Erin and David LaVie Dawn and Tim Mayeux Laura and George Mueller Kristen and Michael Nicoladis '78 Marissa and Rob Norton
GOLD SPONSORS
Class of 2022 Marian and Larry Gibbs Dr. and Mrs. Michael Morin Melanie Manzella '87
Provance Chiropractic Lacy '87 and Mo Rabe Helen and Bob Richards Brandi and Mitch Rubin Gretchen and Pete Schmedtje Cynthia and Lenny Schmidt Mark & Fran Scofield Kimberly and Michael Smuck '97 Merry and Kim Sorrells Lacey and Tom Spiers DeAnna and Todd Tillery Laura Heytens Leigh '94 and Arthur Deutcsh Heidi and Adam Gremillion Cynthia Hill Susan and Peter Rigney Angie Ruiz Schiro's School Time Uniforms Gretchen and Pete Schmedtje Fran and Mark Scofield Kimberly and Michael Smuck '97 Merry and Kim Sorrells Lacey and Tom Spiers Julie and Kirk Talbot '88 DeAnna and Todd Tillery
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our parents, alums, and community members, this year’s event raised $70,000 to help fund teacher wish lists and faculty professional development and to enhance the school’s PA system. Major sponsors, in addition to Gulf Coast Bank, included Cain Construction & Design, Solomon Group, Gian Durand, Annie and Wesley Palmisano, Mid City Yacht Club, and Donovan and Lawler Law Firm. Several of New Orleans’ finest restaurants and catering companies were represented, including Drago’s Seafood Restaurant, Court of Two Sisters, The Crossing, and Nola Catering Events. For those with a sweet tooth, Chez Pierre provided delicious baked goods and New Orleans Ice Cream Company sponsored an ice cream bar. To top it off, Café du Monde supplied their fresh, hot coffee. RED & BLUE SPONSORS
FH Meyers Jennifer and Lee Gary General Biomedical Service Jani-King Oak Family Dental Sonitrol of New Orleans Verified Electronic Security Terry '69 and Keith Stanton
Professional photography provided by Wally Porter Associates
THANK YOU,
THANK YOU, SPONSORS! SPONSORS! St. Martin's Board of Trustees | Patron Party Sponsor St. Martin's Board of Trustees | Patron Party Sponsor Cain Construction and Design | Entertainment Sponsor Cain Construction and Design | Entertainment Sponsor Solomon Group | Event Experience Sponsor Solomon Group | Event Experience Sponsor Gian Durand | Gala Bar Sponsor Gian Durand | Gala Bar Sponsor Palmisano | Patron Party Bar Sponsor Annie and Wesley PalmisanoAnnie | Patronand PartyWesley Bar Sponsor Donovan and Lawler Law FirmDonovan | Patron Gift Sponsor and Lawler Law Firm | Patron Gift Sponsor STM SUPPORTERS
John and Angele Alvendia PLATINUM SPONSOR hew Lepetich - MedLogic
Lauren and Roby Arensman '91 Malena and Matthew Lepetich - MedLogic Dena Bach and Parker Waters
RS
Catherine and Richard Barnett Robin and Mark Bone Doris and Tommy Bryan Gibbs Valerie and Chuck Corcoran '88 Class of 2022 ael Morin Erica and Patrick Costello Marian and Larry Lisa Gibbs and Bret Davis '87 Lisa and Fred Devall '87 Dr. and Mrs. Michael Morin Brenda and Carl Ducote Melanie Manzella '87 PONSORS Melissa and Alex Fein Ashley Salge and Freda Freeman Leslie and Randy Gaspard Gary Donna and Rob Glenn cal Service Mary and David Halpern FH Myers Shannon and Stephen Huber '89 Jennifer and Lee Gary al Trudy and Tim Hurley ChristineService and Stephen Jones/ JJ's Diner Orleans General Biomedical and Stephen LaCoste onic Security Jani-King Nicole Erin and David LaVie th Stanton Oak Family Dental Dawn and Tim Mayeux and George Sonitrol of NewLaura Orleans - Mueller tography provided by Kristen and Michael Nicoladis '78 Verified Electronic Security Marissa and Rob Norton ssociates
GOLD SPONSORS
RED & BLUE SPONSORS
Terry '69 and Keith Stanton
Professional photography provided by Wally Porter Associates 40 | Spring 2016
STM SUPPORTERS
Provance Chiropractic LacyJohn '87 and Rabe Alvendia andMoAngele Helen and Bob Lauren andRichards Roby Arensman '91 Brandi and Mitch Rubin Dena Bach and Parker Waters Gretchen and Pete Schmedtje Catherine and Richard Barnett Cynthia and Lenny Schmidt Mark Bone MarkRobin & Franand Scofield Doris and andMichael TommySmuck Bryan'97 Kimberly Merry and Kim Sorrells Valerie and Chuck Corcoran '88 Lacey and Tom Spiers Erica and Patrick Costello DeAnna and Todd Tillery Lisa and Bret Davis Laura Heytens Lisa'94and Leigh and Fred ArthurDevall Deutcsh'87 Brenda andGremillion Carl Ducote Heidi and Adam Cynthia Hill and Alex Fein Melissa Susan and Peter Ashley SalgeRigney and Freda Freeman Angie Ruizand Randy Gaspard Leslie Schiro's School Time Uniforms Donna and Rob Glenn Gretchen and Pete Schmedtje and Scofield David Halpern FranMary and Mark Shannon and Stephen Huber '89 Kimberly and Michael Smuck '97 Merry and and Kim Sorrells Trudy Tim Hurley Lacey and Tomand Spiers Christine Stephen Jones/ JJ's Diner Julie and Kirk Talbot '88 Nicole and Stephen LaCoste DeAnna and Todd Tillery
Erin and David LaVie Dawn and Tim Mayeux Laura and George Mueller Kristen and Michael Nicoladis '78 Marissa and Rob Norton
Provance Chiropractic Lacy '87 and Mo Rabe Helen and Bob Richards Brandi and Mitch Rubin Gretchen and Pete Schmedtje Cynthia and Lenny Schmidt Mark & Fran Scofield Kimberly and Michael Smuck '97 Merry and Kim Sorrells Lacey and Tom Spiers DeAnna and Todd Tillery Laura Heytens Leigh '94 and Arthur Deutcsh Heidi and Adam Gremillion Cynthia Hill Susan and Peter Rigney Angie Ruiz Schiro's School Time Uniforms Gretchen and Pete Schmedtje Fran and Mark Scofield Kimberly and Michael Smuck '97 Merry and Kim Sorrells Lacey and Tom Spiers Julie and Kirk Talbot '88 DeAnna and Todd Tillery
Special thanks to the event co-chairs Amy Lawler and Marissa Norton, pictured below with their husbands Chris and Rob, and to all of the event volunteers who helped to make this year’s gala a big success!
WINNING TEAM Bart Cranford and the Cranford Equipment Company team
The weather was beautiful, the greens were lush, the food and drinks were savory and refreshing, and the prizes and ditty bags were abundant. With 22 teams registered and the support of dozens of sponsors, donors, and volunteers, this year’s golf tournament was our best yet. A big StM thank you to everyone who helped to make the event such a success. We were able to raise over $14,000 to help purchase new uniforms and equipment that will improve and enhance the quality of our athletic program. Special thanks to the tournament chairs, Christine and Stephen Jones, and to everyone who served on the event committee. They were an instrumental part of the event’s success.
TOURNAMENT SPONSOR Eustis Insurance & Benefits CORPORATE SPONSORS Lucky Dogs FAST Specialty Pharmacy Tchoupitoulas Beer Garden Cranford Equipment Co., Inc. Gulf Coast Bank Mr. & Mrs. G. Perry Eastman III '62 / Auto-Chlor SAINTS SPONSORS Ochsner DA Exterminating Co., Inc. Stephen & Christine Jones/ JJ’s Diner HALO SPONSORS Hurley & Cot APLC 504 Pools Law Office of Kyle S. Sclafani Equitas Capital Advisors EVENT SPONSORS Marque’s Market Premier Offshore Catering, Inc. The Crossing Wally Porter Associates
HOLE SPONSORS Ana Ortega '85/General Biomedical Service, Inc. Chehardy Sherman Williams Daniel C. Imbornone CPA Executone Systems Co. Fairmont Flooring Heaven’s Pets at Lake Lawn Metairie Mason and Maxton Allemore/ Billiot Pools Merry and Kim Sorrells Palmisano Contractors Randall C. Martin, CPA Southern Lacrosse Stokes & Associates, Inc. TMI Tony Manzella III, Class of 2018 Premier Offshore Catering, Inc. United Healthcare
18TH HOLE SPONSORS Eileen Beckman Vince Drago Sue Edwards Jim Marsalis '62 Chick McGeehan Harriet Aguair-Netto Jean Parmelee Pedro Perez Karen Scott Betsy Kaston '72 Al and Linda Trevino
Lots of shopping and hopping took place at the spring
Art Market. This year’s event featured original art, crafts, homemade goods, food, and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Over 60 vendors, including Dominique Giordino ’86, Tiny Stitches, NOLA Couture, and Thirty One, sold some of New Orleans’ best jewelry and crafts. Special thanks to the event co-chairs, Leslie Gaspard and Ashley Vignes, and the event volunteers who helped to make this year’s event a big success! Thanks to the amazing support of the StM community, the SCO was able to purchase a new student activity bus with the fundraising proceeds from the 2014-2015 school year.
UPCOMING SCO EVENTS 2016-2017 BACK TO SCHOOL BBQ BASH August 21
GOLF TOURNAMENT November 4
SPRING GALA April 1
ART MARKET November 12
FAMILY FEST May 19
The Bell | 41
ALUMNI EVENTS
ALUMNI EVENTS
Martin de Tours Award
Alumni Easter Egg Hunt
St. Martin’s presented the annual Martin de Tours Award on Friday, November
Everyone at the Alumni Easter Egg Hunt had a wonderful time.
20, 2015, to William E. Wright, Jr. ’67. He was honored at a ceremony during an Upper School assembly in the Solomon Theater, as well as at a private reception the evening before in the Van Slate House.
Melanie Manzella ’87
How time flies when you are having
fun! While I have completed my term as President of the St. Martin’s Alumni Board, I know it is not the end of my involvement with my dear ol’ alma mater. Working with Aimee Hyatt and the members of our Board has been an absolute pleasure, as we saw increases in attendance and participation in all events, connections with new alums and scattered Saints, and alums playing a more active role in our fundraising and development opportunities. St. Martin’s will always hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to all of the exciting things happening at the school we cherish and we love! Congratulations are in order for the Class of 2016! On behalf of the St. Martin’s Alumni Association, we wish you a successful future as you embark on the next exciting phase in your life. We look forward to hearing about your future achievements and seeing you when you visit or attend events at “home.” Most importantly, I pray your friendships made through our beloved StM are cherished and remain as strong as mine are. Hope to see you soon!
Bill is a partner in the New Orleans firm of Deutsch Kerrigan LLP. He has been recognized in “The Best Lawyers in America” list and “Louisiana Super Lawyers” list since 2007. He was identified in the New Orleans CityBusiness “Leadership in Law” list as one of the Top 50 Lawyers in New Orleans in 2011. In addition to these accolades, Bill has been a speaker on numerous national and local programs addressing professional liability and ethical issues. He is the author of several published articles, including “Attorneys as Defendants,” The Practical Lawyer, and “Ethical Considerations in Representing Multiple Parties in Litigation,” Tulane Law Review. He also authored the Professional Liability Chapter in West’s Law and Practice of Insurance Coverage Litigation.
In addition to his outstanding professional accomplishments, Bill is a leader in the community. He has been extremely active in the nonprofit organization Habitat for Humanity; he was a member of the New Orleans Area Board of Habitat for Humanity from 2006 to 2012, and was president of the Board from 2009 to 2011. He returned to the board in 2014 and is currently serving on its Executive Committee. Bill was instrumental in initiating the Musicians’ Village and in completing the Ellis Marsalis Music Center. In addition to his extensive work with Habitat, he has worked with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, chaired the Annual Leukemia Fundraising Cup Regatta several times, and was the top fundraiser twice. He served as Commodore of the Southern Yacht Club and as a member of the SYC Head of School Merry Sorrells with Board for twelve years. Bill has served on Martin de Tours Award winner the Vestry of Trinity Episcopal Church, William E. Wright, Jr. '67. where he is also a lector and usher, and has chaired the Stewardship Committee. d the community o has consistently serve wh us mn alu ry pla em an ex ents include: ard is given annually to ip, Service. Past recipi rsh ola Sch , ith Fa : The Martin de Tours Aw tto rtin’s mo gue McCollam ’52, a commitment to St. Ma . Jonassen ’58, Julie Ho A.B ns , and has demonstrated Ha , ’55 an em ud , S. Ford Rowan, Jr. ’61 ’60, Sue Ruppel La , Robert W. Merrick ’62 ’64 h lac nd Robert L. Livingston, Jr. Gu , O. s ’57 me III n Ja W. Brooks Emory ’60, bert J. “Bobby” Whan Gwynne Bowman ’59, hn M. Girault, Sr. ’55, Ro Jo , ’57 n Blessey, Jr. ’62, go E. r rvi lte Ze s Wa , rlo ann ’65, Ca foot Kaston ’72 ree Th tsy Be , ’68 ll Patty Habeeb Muehlem we Higgins Se John Gage ’59, Peggy Antonio Cabrales ’54, midt ’74. ps , and Cynthia Philli Sch Donald K. Marshall ’68 t alumni . Martin’s highes St is d ar aw e th ple joys of hool, d God in the sim on saint of our sc tr fin pa to e ty th r ili fo ab s ed hi Nam the gates n for urs is best know ivering beggar at sh To a de et m tin ar tin M ar r. M hono hich at into two known stor y in w he divided his co lel n, w io a ss is pa e m er co Th life. cts of faith, ed with emplified the aspe iens in Gaul. Mov ex m s A ur of To ty ci de e tin th of . Mar e to the poor man . Martin’s. parts and gave on e so highly at St lu va e w at th e ic rv se scholarship and ture consideration, to nominate for fu e lik ld ou w u yo m form or visit anding alum who for a nomination 86 99 673 If there is an outst ) 04 (5 Alumni Office at please contact the . ds mniawar stmsaints.com/alu
Toddlers searched on the chapel lawn, and older children looked high and low near the bell. Face-painting, bouncy houses, and refreshments were inside for the kids. The Easter Bunny was on hand for pictures and there was more than enough candy to go around.
Young Alum Yearbook Lunch On January 6, 2016, we welcomed the Class of 2015 back to campus. These
college freshmen returned to StM to pick up their senior yearbooks and enjoy lunch in Saints Hall. It was a wonderful day to reconnect with old classmates and teachers. These young alumni certainly know they will forever be Saints.
The Bell | 43
991
ALUMNI EVENTS
’S
RTIN A M . ST
DOROTHY PORTER SERVICE AWARD 2016 Warren Lind
2016 ni
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ALUMNI EVENTS
S OF 1 CLAS
CLASS OF 1976
CLASS OF 1986
Future alum: Trey, son of Ford Dieth ’89, enjoys the new Alumni Playdate event.
CLASS OF 199
6
On Saturday, May 7, 2016 Warren Lind was awarded the Dorothy Porter Service Award. Mr. Lind has long served St. Martin's in many capacities. He is best known as a dedicated Middle School science teacher. He began his tenure at St. Martin's in 1979 and has been working for the betterment of his students and the school ever since. Additionally, he has served as Chair of the Science Department. He is a dedicated educator who, throughout the years, has paired his experience with the most up-to-date best practices to enhance the classroom experience for his students. During his career here, he has been a fixture both inside and outside the classroom. For many years he was involved in summer programs at St. Martin's, even serving as director. Over the course of numerous summers, he has introduced many children to rocketry, chemistry, and robotics. Additionally, he has encouraged students' love of science through the Science Olympiad program. His Science Olympiad teams routinely place in competitions. This school year, the Upper School team finished second in the state. He has earned the award of PAST RECIPIENTS OF Outstanding Coach from Science Olympiad for the past three years. THE DOROTHY PORTER Mr. Lind also has coached at the Middle and Upper School level in both swimming and boys basketball. He is currently coaching cross country, and this year led our boys cross country team to a state championship and the girls cross country team to finish second in the state. He works with many of those same athletes as Indoor Track Coach during the winter season and Track Coach in the spring. The Dorothy Porter Service Award was established in honor of a beloved longtime teacher, who was a part of St. Martin's from its beginning. The award's recipient must be an exemplary St. Martin's citizen who has consistently served the school with time, talent, and treasures and who represents the motto, philosophy, and mission of St. Martin's: Faith, Scholarship, and Service. To nominate someone please visit stmsaints.com/scatteredsaints.
44 | Spring 2016
SERVICE AWARD Dorothy Porter (2002) Jim Marsalis ’62 (2003) Belle Johnson (2004) The Rev. Gedge Gayle (2005) Eileen Beckman (2006) Bill Rosenbaum (2007) Wally Porter ’76 (2008) “Miss Janet” Russo (2009) The Rev. John Stone Jenkins (2010) Lynn Coatney (2011) Karen Sullivan (2012) Linda Trevino (2013) Marian and Larry Gibbs (2014) Julie Dieth (2015)
The Bell | 45
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Engineering Community
Teaching, Researching, Challenging
Willliam Kuehne, Class of 2013
REBECCA TUURI, PH.D., Class of 1998
President of Lehigh University Chapter of Engineers without Borders Co-Owner, Kelpÿ
Assistant Professor of History and Coordinator, Southern Studies Concentration Interdisciplinary Studies University of Southern Mississippi
You have had an extremely successful college career so far. What are you most proud of? I am most proud of the communities I've helped forge at Lehigh through my roles with Engineers Without Borders, as the lead residential advisor for the creative commons entrepreneurship and innovation themed housing, and as coowner of the company (Kelpÿ) I started. These communities foster close bonds between people, and perhaps more importantly they strive towards high-achieving goals. In your time at Lehigh you have been involved with The Creative Commons: Innovation and Entrepreneurship Community. Why do you think students benefit from themed living? Themed living offers students a chance to realize their passion in ways that traditional housing simply doesn't. Residents have innovated in many ways; they've met successful entrepreneurs and investors, and they've made connections that could potentially help in future business endeavors. Networking in themed living is a large part of the experience. It narrows down the potential field of people you network with to those interested in similar issues as you. You will serve as president of Lehigh’s chapter of Engineers without Borders this year. What are your goals for your term? I have five goals for EWB next year. First, finish our project in Cebadilla, Nicaragua, where we are providing clean and accessible water for around 300 people by drilling a well and installing a piping system. We are currently in the second phase of our project, and have a team going down to Nicaragua over the summer that will complete phase two (installing piping, surge tank, concrete pad, and two 10,000-liter storage tanks). Second, we hope to gain more input from the general club, which is quite large; the executive board sometimes makes insular decisions. Third, we want to build and improve on our EWB community. Fourth, we will develop our partnership with Engineering for Change and explore its mission in relation to our own. Fifth, fundraising for large international projects can be quite timeconsuming and difficult. I'd like to streamline our process, mainly so that our project doesn't ever have to be put on hold for funding.
distribute. Once we gain market feedback, we will tweak and improve our product and iterate. We've won various grants and entrepreneurial competitions, and are looking for angel investors. Feel free to look us up, or join our newsletter at kelpyco.com. What recommendations or advice would you have for current Upper School students as they begin their journey toward a college career? Take advantage of all that St. Martin's offers (it really does offer a tremendous amount of intellectual and physical resources), and look at how your learnings at StM affect and interplay with the real world. Sometimes it’s hard to connect classroom learning to the real world, but I challenge students to try to make the connection. Not only will it impress colleges, it will prepare you for life beyond StM. What part did St. Martin’s play in preparing you for college? It played a pivotal role in preparation for my future, not just college. College is actually only a small part of what StM prepares you for. My entrepreneurial spirit and leadership was forged while at StM through my work with Model United Nations. I strongly believe that the fundamental qualities that people will carry throughout their lives are formed in high school and pre-high school. StM is unique in that it exposes students to many life skills that can be transformative and that carry through people’s lives, including their college careers. It also gives an amazing amount of trust and power to students, which challenged and empowered me. I would attribute the development of my work ethic, my leadership, and my integrity to my family, my childhood, and, to a large extent, St. Martin's.
What are some of your fondest memories of St. Martin’s? You are part of a group of Lehigh students that launched the startup Kelpÿ. What are the next steps for the business? Kelpÿ is a concept I came up with to reduce nitrification in hypoxic-prone river deltas by using kelp. To encourage the kelp industry in the United States, and therefore put more kelp in the water to reduce nitrates, we've created a kelp chip in conjunction with local chefs. We've partnered with kelp farmers, and recently acquired over 150 pounds of kelp that we will send to a co-packing company to produce and
46 | Spring 2016
There are so many! I had a love-hate relationship with Mrs. Quinet during my time at StM. She and I started the Model United Nations team together with Vishal Shah (who is still a great friend--I am actually living with him in Houston over this summer). StM allowed us to forge our own club. And because StM empowers students, we were allowed to bring our peers to MUN competitions around the country that involve schools from around the world...
This interview was edited for space. Read it in its entirety at www.stmsaints.com/spotlight.
You recently received a National Endowment for the Humanities Summer stipend. Tell us a bit more about your research and upcoming book. The National Endowment for the Humanities Summer Stipend is a competitive grant to fund two months of research and writing for humanities professors. I will use this stipend period to complete revisions to my book manuscript “Careful Crusaders: The National Council of Negro Women in the Black Freedom Struggle,” which is under advance contract.
Try to learn as much as you can both inside and outside of the classroom while you are in college. Education is about more than training for a job or a career. Your undergraduate experience is an excellent time to challenge yourself intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually, so make the most of this very special time in your life. — Rebecca Tuuri ’98
What led you into your particular field? I have always been interested in social justice, but it was not until I went to graduate school at Rutgers, in New Jersey, that I became more fully aware of the structural inequality that has plagued America throughout history. What do you enjoy most about working in the college setting? I love my students, and I love the opportunity to have open and honest conversations with them….I believe that it will be through open, honest dialogue that this country can really begin to make changes that will help all Americans lead safer, happier, healthier, and more productive lives. What recommendations or advice would you have for current Upper School students as they begin their journeys toward their college careers? Try to learn as much as you can both inside and outside of the classroom while you are in college. Education is about more than training for a job or a career. Your undergraduate experience is an excellent time to challenge yourself intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually, so make the most of this very special time in your life….Of course I hope that you take at least one history course while you are in college, but really, just try to take something outside of your major.
What part did St. Martin’s play in preparing you for college and beyond? I am forever indebted to a host of highly skilled and talented teachers, coaches, counselors, and staff at StM who excelled at their craft in ways that continue to amaze me. They encouraged my curiosity and fostered my intellectual, artistic, social, athletic, and spiritual growth from first through twelfth grade. StM also gave me a very strong foundation from which to think and write critically, both of which were invaluable to me at Rice University, where I received bachelor’s degrees in History and Studio Art; at Rutgers, where I received my Ph.D. in History; and now as a professor at USM. I even continue to use Mrs. Beckman’s grammar guidelines in my own college classes today. StM also helped me have perspective about the importance of a well-balanced approach to life. I continue to strive for the balance of faith, scholarship, and service in my life. Finally, StM's inspirational educators influenced me to want to be a teacher myself. I hope that I can have a fraction of the impact on my students that they had on me. What are some of your fondest memories of St. Martin’s? There are so many wonderful memories, it is hard to pick only a few. StM was a place where the teachers, coaches, counselors, and staff took such a deep interest in the well-being of all of the students that they made it a very special place. Some memories that stand out to me are earning an eagle feather in anticipation of Indian Day in third grade; participating in the Wolfcreek leadership trip with my classmates in seventh grade and going to Washington, D.C., in eighth grade; decorating the halls for Homecoming; running with Mr. Marsalis and the Cross Country team at Lafreniere Park; reading and discussing South American poetry in Ms. Wells’ class; and reciting the Pater Noster every day in Mr. Drago’s Latin classes...
This interview was edited for space. Read it in its entirety at www.stmsaints.com/spotlight.
The Bell | 47
SCATTERED FACULTY
Dr. Rex Mooney Dr. Rex Mooney came to StM in the summer of 1978 as a Middle and Upper School history teacher. While best known as a history teacher, he also served as the college counselor during the mid-80s and 90s. When asked to reflect on his days in this position, he stated, “College counseling had its ups and downs. I didn’t particularly like the traveling, but some of the best moments came from actual college visits. The effort to envision one or more of our students in a specific setting was a kind of imagining that I found challenging and satisfying. College visiting became an ingrained habit, and to this day a trip anywhere may well include a stop to look in on a campus.”
Doc, as he was fondly known, always had students’ best interests in mind even when undertaking the daunting task of writing college recommendations. He said he “especially enjoyed working to get down on paper something truly characteristic of the individual being considered. The writing became a kind of test of craftsmanship, and I still remember and take delight in certain letters and their turns of phrase.”
Like most faculty, Doc recalls many happy times at StM. “In terms of the broader reaches of school life, I have fond
memories of very specific locations. On Tony Porter Field, a place along the fence and about midway between the bleachers and the Taj was an ideal spot to watch sporting events. In the very few times I took a seat, the vantage point seemed all wrong.” Alumni may remember the same places and have the same affection. In similar fashion, Doc had an attachment to the cafeteria in the Barn. He remembers that “it offered no frills and was crowded. But the food was good and the atmosphere friendly. I found there a spirit of community that was one of the best qualities of the school.” During his tenure at StM, the yearbook was dedicated to him twice, in 1981 and 2000.
Doc left St. Martin’s at the end of the 2010-2011 school year. In retirement he enjoys spending time with his wife, Barbara. They have done a little traveling and plan to do even more in the future. As is the case with almost everyone who passes time here, Doc feels a special fondness for his years at StM. He states, “Over the years, I had the good fortune to teach many highly talented and immensely likeable students. At the same time, I worked with capable and dedicated teachers. I have a large storehouse of good memories, and I thank all the people who contributed to it.” It is likely that those who had the good fortune to interact with Doc feel the same way.
Ouida Muller Rellstab Ouida Muller Rellstab served as college counselor to St. Martin’s Upper School students during the late 1970s, in addition to her teaching and other duties. Though she helped many alumni on their college journeys, she says her favorite times at St. Martin’s by far were the years of teaching ninth grade English. She taught English at the university, college, junior college and high school levels, but she has never enjoyed anything as much as teaching freshmen. To her they were in a post-larval stage (not what they were in Middle School and not what they would become later) and just great to teach. After retiring, she substituted several days a week. According to her, that was bliss – no lesson plans, no papers to grade, no reports to write – just teaching and keeping order (something she never saw as a problem). After her husband’s death in 2010, she and her son Martin realized that their house was too big. They found a small house, with no pool, in a quiet neighborhood. The property had a decent yard, albeit with severely overgrown flowerbeds which required ruthless hands to subdue. Martin is a great help in the yard, now that she has taught him that gardening
does not automatically imply using a chainsaw. Her daughter Cielle and her husband, back in the States after years abroad in Egypt, Azerbaijan, and Angola, retired to a country place near Folsom, and she visits frequently. An adorable orange cat allows Ouida and Martin to share the abode with her.
When left unsupervised, Ouida devours six or seven books a week, enough to require a little shopping cart when she descends on libraries. And she continues the nonstop gardening duties, particularly if Martin is covering a wrestling tournament and cannot fret over her.
JEOPARDY! is still a fixture in their lives, and she has learned to enjoy watching sports as well as mastering an iPad, Netflix, and VUDU. A few years ago Ouida surprised her children and stunned her grandchildren, when she wrote, and they read, her memoirs. And she didn’t tell the half of it!
Have something to share in our Scattered Faculty section? Email Eileen Beckman at eileenbeckman@gmail.com or Linda Trevino at tvino1@cox.net. 48 | Spring 2016
ALUMNI NEWS
Scattered Saints 1951 REUNION YEAR
1956 REUNION YEAR
1957 The class of ’57 will gather in New Orleans the weekend of May 5, 2017 for its 60th reunion!
1960 Louvin Hitt Skinner and husband John have four daughters, and daughter Johanna was married during the past year. Louvin was delighted that the Rev. Susan Gaumer, former StM chaplain, officiated at the service. John and Louvin love spending part of each week in Bay St. Louis, as do several others from the class.
Jerry Friedrichs and Elizabeth visited London, Paris, Lisbon, Madrid, Avila, and Segovia this past year and had a great time, except for Jerry getting shingles, which was an aggravation, needless to say! Lizann Kreeger Hardy was thrilled to manage a reunion in Cincinnati this year with her three sisters and some of their families, and they hope to do a repeat reunion soon in New Orleans. Lizann’s granddaughter is graduating from high school this year and will attend the Art Academy of Cincinnati, a prestigious art school since its beginning in 1869.
We need an agent! The classes of ’52, ’56, ’59, ’67, ’69, and ’70 need agents. Contact Aimee Hyatt ’02 at (504)736-9986 or alumni@stmsaints.com if you are interested. Jim Connor says that he and Charlotte have nine grandkids between their two families, and this keeps them on the go to the various grandkid activities. Recently they “babysat” in the Washington, D.C. area and visited museums while they weren’t on duty. They loved the new Newseum there and recommend it to other visitors. They also enjoyed a visit to Martha’s Vineyard, and are planning a trip to Tuscany and a cruise down the Rhône River.
Diane Sustendal Labouisse, Pete’s widow, says she is working hard sorting through all the mementos at their lovely home, a BIG job, as Pete saved most everything, but there are lots of good memories, and she reminded me how very much Pete loved our class. Mary Sue Roniger and Jack had a great trip to Florence and Tuscany and were there for the reopening of the Cathedral Museum.
1966 Reunion
Johnny Bolles and wife Boody get to Atlanta fairly often to see their three granddaughters, and get a taste of the various athletic events that seem to keep all young families on the go. Tammy Smith Gamble reports all is well in Virginia, where she and Harry have Harry’s mom living with them, age 99, and Tammy’s aging dog, age 17. They still have several horses, and neighborhood children love coming over to help care for the horses. She and Harry are also active in an adult theology class. Busy life for sure! Patti McHugh Fullilove reports that she is delighted that her grandson, Avery Cottrell, has moved from Atlanta to N.O., where is he working as a chef for Restaurant Pêche in the Warehouse District.
NEW! Submit your Scattered Saints information online at stmsaints.com/scatteredsaints.
Need to contact your class agent? Visit stmsaints.com/classagents. The Bell | 49
ALUMNI NEWS
ALUMNI NEWS
1961
1966
REUNION YEAR
REUNION YEAR
1962
Harrier Aguiar-Netto, Betsy Kaston '72, Linda Trevino and Karen Scott
In November Bob Merrick was honored as a recipient of the Annual Weiss Awards given by the New Orleans Council for Community and Justice. This award recognizes outstanding community leaders who exemplify civic and humanitarian contributions to the furtherance of human dignity. Anita Zervigon-Hakes took the first nonstop flight to Cuba from New Orleans since the 1950’s with a group interested in improving Louisiana-Cuba relations. It was an emotional and poignant visit as she was able to travel to her father’s family home in Guines, Cuba, and meet distant relatives. Gina Bohn-Puls and her husband have moved from Indian Wells, CA, to Natchitoches, LA, where they bought and are enjoying a 100-year-old home.
Buddy Spell '76, Margie Schwegmann Brown '76 and Wally Porter '76 at StM Ring Day 2016
1976 Reunion
1963 This spring Larry Schlueter finished first in his age group at the Crescent City Classic!
The class of 1966 celebrated its 50th reunion the weekend of April 29 in conjunction with the second weekend of Jazz Fest. A fun time was had by all, catching up and sharing memories. See photos on previous page.
1967 In November Bill Wright was honored by St. Martin’s as the 16th recipient of the school’s highest alumni honor, the Martin De Tours Award. Flip to page 42 to read about the event.
1971 REUNION YEAR
In April Dodie Smith was on campus as a guest professional speaking to Upper School students for Career Day in the architecture category. She is a principal/owner and licensed architect for C. Spencer Smith, AIA LLC, an architectural planning and consulting professional services firm. She came back again in May to visit the Lower School and provide feedback on their Global Day of Design Playground Redesign Challenge.
1972 Harry Mayronne was profiled in the March 2016 issue of Biz New Orleans. He was also recognized by StM for his achievements in the arts when the Performing Arts Department dedicated a performance of Xanadu, in his honor. Betsy Threefoot Kaston was honored this spring by the East Jefferson General Hospital Auxiliary as a Great
Lady for her volunteerism in the New Orleans community. There to celebrate this honor were former StM faculty members Dr. Harriet AguairNetto, Linda Trevino, and Karen Scott (see picture).
1976 REUNION YEAR
On Alumni Weekend, the Class of 1976 enjoyed a whirlwind reunion. It began on Thursday with a casual welcome reception at the home of Buddy and Annie Spell in Covington. What followed was a weekend of fun, food and friends, including refreshments from Terry and Lane Sistrunk’s Nola Catering. Saturday evening the group arrived in style in a limo bus at the Alumni Spirits Party. The end of the crawfish boil didn’t end the night for this class. Many made their way to Bruno’s Tavern for a lively after-party. The reunion was a huge success.
1977 The class of 1977 will celebrate its 40th reunion next year and is looking for a few more volunteers to help coordinate events. Anyone interested should contact class agent Rob Ayerst. Anderson Baker, president of Gillis, Ellis & Baker, was named to the Multinational Board of Directors of Assurex Global during its 2015 Shareholders’ Meeting in Dublin, Ireland. Assurex Global is the world’s largest privately held commercial insurance, risk management and employee benefits brokerage group. The Dublin conference brought together nearly 200 attendees, representing 72 partner firms from 35 countries.
NEW! Submit your Scattered Saints information online at stmsaints.com/scatteredsaints.
50 | Spring 2016
1978 Vicki Fleetwood Ginger is enjoying living in Luanda, Angola, with her husband Elliott. In April the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society celebrated National Volunteer Week. As part of that celebration they recognized a select group of Society volunteers as Lifetime Achievement recipients. Barbara Crawford Sheffer was among that group. Though she started out as a volunteer, she now works as their Director of Volunteer Support. Rip Reeves and wife Suzie moved to a lake area in northern New Jersey, called Green Pond, and also have a home in Houma, Louisiana. Three daughters will be graduating from LSU over the next year. Rip and Suzie plan to run the TransRockies Trail Run in August, and then head to Dover in September to attempt a double English Channel relay swim. Following that they are planning a summit attempt of Aconcagua for January. They are staying busy checking off bucket list items!
1979 Beth DePass was featured as one of the Women in Business in the April-May issue of Inside New Orleans magazine. In January 2014 she launched a women’s golf and leisurewear collection, Kevan Hall Sport, in collaboration with fashion designer Kevan Hall. Their fall 2016 line was debuted at the PGA Merchandise Show in January. Trice Gibbons has recently joined Nashville-based Abingdon Press, part of the United Methodist Publishing
House, as a Marketing Manager. This new position allows him to leverage years of marketing and product development experience and the Master of Divinity degree he completed at Vanderbilt Divinity School in 2013. St. Martin’s classmate Barry Lawrence also works for UMPH Information in the Technology department.
1980 Sally Adams Trufant’s business, B&B Pet Stop - which she runs with her siblings - was named a finalist by the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce for 2016 Small Business of the Year.
1981 REUNION YEAR
Mary Trufant’s business, B&B Pet Stop - which she runs with her siblings - was named a finalist by the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce for 2016 Small Business of the Year.
1982 Jeanne Andry Landry was featured on Inside New Orleans magazine’s list of Women in Business in the April-May issue. In 2006, along with her husband, she formed Arthur W. Landry and Jeanne Andry Landry, Attorneys at Law, LLC.
1985 The February-March issue of Inside New Orleans magazine featured a story on Lucky Dogs and their history as part of the fabric of New Orleans. The company is co-owned by Mark Talbot.
We need an agent! The classes of ’52, ’56, ’59, ’67, ’69, and ’70 need agents. Contact Aimee Hyatt ’02 at (504)736-9986 or alumni@stmsaints.com if you are interested.
1986 REUNION YEAR
In January Chris Leopold was sworn in for the 2016 legislative session in Baton Rouge. He is the Louisiana State Representative for District 105, elected in 2011. In early April, local charity Hogs for the Cause held their annual fundraiser and BBQ competition. This year, team Fleur de Que captained by Drew Herrington won in the category of Best Booth and, more importantly, Biggest Fundraiser. They raised more than $150,000. This team was also the top fundraiser in 2015, 2014 and 2013. All money raised by Hogs for the Cause funds pediatric brain cancer outreach services. On Alumni Weekend in May, the Class of 1986 held its 30th reunion. Holly Keubel Mentz hosted the group at her home in Old Metairie and provided her party bus for the evening to transport the group to the Spirits Party on campus. The group was lively and took the stage to lead all in attendance in the singing of the alma mater. Following the party, they loaded back on the bus for a night out on the town.
1987 In 1997 Rachel Wittich was part of a group of parents that started Wedgwood Academy, a school for special needs
Helena '16 presents her brother Philip '17 with his senior ring. They are the children of Ben Lazich '84.
children, in Fort Worth, Texas. Wedgwood will be celebrating 20 years in January, 2017, and just celebrated giving out 100 high school diplomas at the 18th high school graduation ceremony on May 13, 2016.
1988 In January Kirk Talbot was sworn in to the Louisiana House of Representatives. He is the Louisiana State Representative for District 78, first elected in 2007. He is also the co-owner of Lucky Dogs, which was featured in the February-March issue of Inside New Orleans magazine. Also in January, Doug Jones became President of the Companion Animal Group based in Greeley, Colorado. Earlier in his career, he was a consultant for PricewaterhouseCoopers and The North Highland Company. He holds an
Need to contact your class agent? Visit stmsaints.com/classagents. The Bell | 51
ALUMNI NEWS
ALUMNI NEWS Tulane, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. She then completed internship and residency in pediatrics at Tulane and Ochsner. She was honored as one of the “Best Doctors in America” in 2007. Board certified in pediatrics, she joined the Ochsner staff in 2006.
1995
Class of 1996 Reunion
In February Suzanne Gueydan began a new position too. She has relocated from Baton Rouge to Philadelphia, where she is now the Controller of Hajoca Corporation.
Chris Tidmore, who hosts a local radio program on WRNO 99.5 FM, spoke to the Broadcasting group. Chris returned to campus in May to present an essay award to two students on behalf of the Churchill Society of New Orleans, of which he is a member.
1991
1994
undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin.
REUNION YEAR
After the success of the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, chief executive David Grevemberg was appointed Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire by the queen for his services.
1992 In April, several members of the Class of 1992 served as guest professionals for St. Martin’s Upper School Career Day. Truitt Balart, a physician with Jefferson Radiology Associates, was a part of the medical panel. Jenny Costello spoke on the topic of technology. ( Jenny has been with Superior Energy Services, where she is an IT manager, for eight years.) Nick Hingel practices as a Licensed Professional Counselor, and he spoke with students about mental health counseling.
Barbara Farris was featured in the December 2015 issue of Tulane magazine. Then in March she was among 27 athletes, coaches, and officials inducted into the New Orleans Prep Sports Hall of Fame at Ye Olde College Inn. The New Orleans Prep Hall of Fame is free and open to the public at Ye Olde College Inn, 3000 S. Carrollton Ave., between 4-11 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. This spring Robert Faust opened The FÜD BAR. Offering a contemporary and fresh approach to cafeteria-style counter service dining, it is a quick and casual neighborhood food spot in the Gentilly/Lake Terrace neighborhood. In April, Vanessa CarrollOhmes served as a guest for StM’s Upper School Career Day as part of a three-person panel on the medical field. Vanessa earned her medical degree at
In November William Schroeder was featured in a case study in a Harvard Business Review article entitled, “Stop Second-Guessing Your Decisions at Work.” He is the owner of Just Mind, a boutique counseling center, in Austin, Texas.
1996 REUNION YEAR
Last fall, Stacey Weber Houston was inducted into the StM Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame as a member of the undefeated 1992-1993 State Champion Girls Basketball Team. Wesley Rolston Gibson’s early literacy company, Literacy Enrichment and Play, continues to grow as it adds more schools to the traveling program each semester. They are also adding adult enrichment workshops, as well as more day camps for preschool-aged children, in 2016. In April Tyson Geary joined other alums at Upper School Career Day where he presented on the topic of interior design. He is the owner of a local firm, Tyson Geary Interiors LLC. On Alumni Weekend the Class of 1996 celebrated 20 years with a reunion party on Friday night at F&M’s, and the Spirits Party on Saturday. Everyone had a blast at both events.
1998 Micki Delany Andry was named Coach of the Year by the Clarion Herald, the official newspaper of the archdiocese of New Orleans. She is the girls basketball coach at Sacred Heart. The Cardinals had not made the playoffs since 1998, but under Micki they finished this season 19-7 and were unbeaten in district play for the first time ever. Rebecca Tuuri is an assistant professor at the University of Southern Mississippi and was recently chosen as a 2016 recipient of the National Endowment for the Humanities’ Summer Stipend. She is currently working on the project “Careful Crusaders: The National Council of Negro Women in the Black Freedom Struggle,” researching the National Council of Negro Women. Read more about her in our Alumni Spotlight section on p. 47. Peter Adair, a St. Martin’s teacher, was recently recognized as an outstanding teacher by the Churchill Society of New Orleans when two of his Upper School students won first and second place in the group’s essay contests. Amanda Hall Wicklund and her husband Eric are currently living in Baton Rouge, where she recently became a realtor with Coldwell Banker One. Her two girls, Annika (9) and Maggie (7), both attend Episcopal School of Baton Rouge.
2000 Ginger Guzzetta Touzet visited campus this spring to serve as a guest professional at St. Martin’s Upper School Career
NEW! Submit your Scattered Saints information online at stmsaints.com/scatteredsaints.
52 | Spring 2016
Day in the field of Mental Health Counseling. She works locally as a licensed professional counselor.
Also on campus for Career Day to speak about law was David Coons, who is a partner at Adams and Reese in New Orleans.
2001
Mike Daly was honored by Ability Connection Colorado as an Outstanding Volunteer of the Year. He is a mentor in their Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP), which is a career-focus program for young people with disabilities who are either involved in the juvenile justice system or at risk of becoming involved.
REUNION YEAR
Stay tuned for reunion plans! Lauren Malone Keller is the co-author of In a While, Crocodile: New Orleans Slow Cooker Recipes. Just before her new daughter Kathryn’s arrival, Lauren was able to meet up with several classmates and their children. This spring, Tyson Construction (owned by Zach Tyson) partnered with Operation Finally Home to provide a mortgage-free home for a wounded U.S. Army veteran and his family. The home was furnished by JCPenney and highlighted in a video by the company. Also working on this project was Southern Living magazine. It was featured in the Spring 2016 issue of New Orleans Homes and Lifestyles magazine. Several members of the Class of 2001 were on campus in April as guests for Upper School Career Day. Alex Pappas spoke to students about her career in interior design. Ryan Evans, Managing Supervisor at Bond Public Relations and Brand Strategy, spoke about public relations, and Brandon Lobell, a Vice President, Commercial Relationship Manager at First NBC Bank, spoke about finance.
2002 Not only did Margot Castaing Rainold recently join us on campus for Career Day, she was also recently featured on “Curbed New Orleans” talking about her Uptown renovation.
2003 Recently a few members of the Class of 2003 met up for a mini-reunion in Atlanta.
Several members of the class of 2005 were at St. Martin’s for Upper School Career Day in April. Mitchell White spoke to students about the entertainment industry. He is currently Producer/VP of Operations at Lightstream Entertainment as well as Producer/President of i10 Films. Chelsea Cusimano, an associate attorney at the Brenner Law Firm, spoke on the topic of law. Brittany Gowland spoke as part of a three-person panel on the medical profession. Brittany is a physician’s assistant with the Ochsner Health System.
Pictured are (left to right) Elizabeth Schoen Larsen with daughter Norah, Lauren Malone Keller with son Robert, Aimee Moreau Anthony with sons William and Jacob, and Lindsay Crotty Bahra with daughters Lea and Penny.
2006 REUNION YEAR
Allan Farber graduated from Georgia Tech in 2014 and has A local magazine highlighted been working for Computrols the Solomon Group and owner, in Harvey since January 2015. Gary Solomon. In its January In February he purchased his issue, Biz New Orleans featured first home and is living with a piece on the company’s stylfiancée, Brittany Dale. ish Girod Street headquarters. Lizzie Derby recently put on On October 31, 2015, Chris her exhibition/MFA thesis Snodgrass ’04 was marproject “Happy Trails” at the ried to Jamie Tyler Feagin UNO St. Claude Gallery. at the Stonehouse Villa in Andrew Martinez is living in Driftwood, Texas. Serving as groomsmen were Aaron Denn, the Bay Area and working for car manufacturer Tesla. Alec Fritchie, and Hayden Rieveschl. The couple resides in Austin. The nuptials were 2008 featured in the March issue of In March, new band John the St. Charles Avenue magazine. Martyr featuring Kyle Ridley
2004
2005 In November 2015 the class of 2005 held its 10-year reunion at the American Sector restaurant at the World War II Museum. The event was well-attended and the group enjoyed getting reconnected. Special thanks to Frances Derby for her behind-thescenes planning efforts.
and Dustin DiSalvo debuted at the Mercury Lounge in New York City. They can be found playing around that area, and samplings of their music are available online.
In May the class of 2008 celebrated several graduations. Shayan Ahmed graduated from the University of North Carolina School of Law. Alegra Grieb graduated from
Zach Tyson '01 at the ribbon cutting ceremony for Operation Finally Home.
Ryan Evans '01, Margot Castaing Rainold, Alex Pappas '01 and Makenzie Kozojet '09 at Career Day
David Coons '01 and Chelsea Cusimano '05 at Career Day.
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ALUMNI NEWS
ALUMNI NEWS
2005 Reunion
the Tulane University School of Medicine. Jordan Harry and Don Muller graduated from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans. Also Troy Patterson completed dental school and will join his family’s practice, Oak Dental. In December 2015 Bobby Korrapati ’08 married Amy Trappey with many StM alums present to celebrate the occasion. In May Doug Howard ’08 was married to Jamie Hargett in Jackson, Mississippi and lots of alums were there to celebrate with the happy couple.
2009 In December Sarah Beth Eumont completed her master’s in social work at Tulane and is now a medical social worker at East Jefferson General Hospital. Taylor Michals was accepted in SMU Law School and will begin school this fall. Makenzie Kozojet is working for the Tulane Office of Development Communications where she is a publication coordinator. She joined other alumni on campus for Upper School Career Day, where she spoke to students on the topic of development. Joel Derby was the winner of this year’s The Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival “Stella” yelling contest. He will be attending Harvard for his master’s next semester. Members of Class of 2003 in Atlanta: Courtney Charvat, Sadiha Ahmed, Nicole Chopin, Michael’s fiancé Mark, and Michael Musso.
2010 Tour Cycle Studio, owned by Madeline Brannon Spiers, is now up and running. They even hosted a private party for
the Class of 1986 during their reunion weekend! New Orleans Living magazine ran a feature on her in January. And she was on campus for Career Day to talk about sales to Upper School students.
2011 REUNION YEAR
Stayed tuned for reunion information coming soon. This May Sarah Breisacher graduated from LSU.
2012 In January Catherine Brierre served as a maid in the court of the Olympians. In May Joshua Fresneda graduated from LSU with a degree in business. Also graduating this May was Jonathan Waters from the University of Richmond.
2013 On January 8, Claire Adams reigned as queen of the Olympian Ball at New Orleans Country Club. She was lovely in a dazzling Ilaine Hartman dress covered with Swarovski rhinestones and featuring a sweetheart neckline. In the fall Ben Griffith transferred to St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas where he immediately got involved with the Student Government Association. He was soon appointed a senator for the student body. Some pieces of legislation include: advocating for fixing speed bumps on campus to help ensure the visibility and safety of both drivers and pedestrians, and creating an outreach initiative entitled “The Hot Seat” in order to have more direct
NEW! Submit your Scattered Saints information online at stmsaints.com/scatteredsaints.
54 | Spring 2016
conversations with the student body. He has also helped his brother, Sam Griffith ’14, create a club called Hand in Hand to help address the homelessness problem in the city of Austin. After the fall semester, he received Dean’s List honors with a 4.0 GPA. Nydia Araya has been studying at Loyola as a psychology major, Latin American studies minor. She serves as a Loyola Krewe leader (summer orientation leaders who help students and their parents transition to college). Nydia will be the acting coordinator for Summer 2016’s orientation sessions. For two years, she has been a mentor for first-generation college students on campus, through Loyola’s First in the PACK mentorship program. Since Fall 2015, she has interned with Loyola’s Department of Student Involvement as the Commuter Program and Service Intern, working alongside her supervisor to plan events on campus for commuters and address commuter issues and concerns, in order to ensure that commuter students have the best possible college experience. Most recently, she participated in Loyola University’s Ignacio Volunteers New Orleans Urban Immersion Program during Spring Break. Offered by the Office of Mission and Ministry, the immersion program allows students to learn about poverty in New Orleans, social issues, and the criminal justice system alongside peers. During this experience, they toured Orleans Parish Prison, sat in on trials at the Orleans Parish Civil District Court, met with New Orleans City council member Stacey Head, and much more. As a
student she has received the Josephine Spato, Joseph Spato, and Sarah Spato Scholarship, the Almar Scholarship, Loyola’s Scholarship for Academic Excellence, and the Pan American Scholarship. Additionally, she has been inducted into Sigma Delta Pi, Loyola’s chapter of the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society, Sigma Alpha Pi, Loyola’s chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success, and Psi Chi, Loyola’s chapter of the International Honor Society in Psychology. Alex de Gravelle plans to spend the summer as a fulltime intern with Merrill Lynch as a Wealth Management and Financial Advising Intern. She continues her involvement in student government at LSU and will serve as Speaker of the Student Senate.
2014 This December Gabrielle Danna, while home from The Boston Conservatory for the Christmas holidays, performed in the Delta Festival Ballet’s 34th annual production of The Nutcracker. Sam Griffith started a new student organization at St. Edward’s University in Texas, Hand in Hand. The group aims to raise awareness and change the narrative about homelessness in the Austin area by using a more creative approach to informing the St. Edward’s community.
2015 Following a gap year, Kyla Bernberg started at Tel Aviv University this fall and reports that it is amazing. The international community is strong and the academic courses are interesting. The semesters are ten intensive weeks. In three years she will graduate with a B.A. in Liberal Arts. Tel Aviv is an incredible city, and the university is in a calm area with a beautiful campus. Kayla recommends this program for any student seeking an international experience. Students are from all over the world, and she even met one boy from New Orleans. Amanda Rouquette was presented at The Society of the Founders of the City of New Orleans. The presentation was held at Metairie Country Club. Any young lady presented must be a direct descendant of a settler established in the area before 1768.
Sarah Breisacher '10 at her LSU graduation.
Jordan Fresneda '15 and Josh Fresneda '12 at Josh's LSU graduation
In January, many members of the Class of 2015 were back on campus to pick up yearbooks and enjoy lunch. Check out more pictures on p. 43.
2016 After graduating in May, the class of 2016 is off to colleges across the country this fall.
Jonathan Waters '12 and sister Ashleigh '10 at his college graduation.
Adler Hyatt plans to spend the summer as an intern at the Williamstown Theater Festival before returning to Glasgow for his senior year. Troy Patterson ’08 with his parents and sister Garet ’05 at his graduation from LSU Dental school.
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ALUMNI NEWS
BIRTHS Brooks Emory ’60 reports the birth of his first grandson, William Brooks Claiborne, born March 21 in New Orleans, to his daughter, Meredith Claiborne and her husband. Betsy Threefoot Kaston ’72 welcomed her second grandchild, Ariel Ruth Kaston, born to her daughter Stephanie in April.
ALUMNI NEWS
MEMORIALS
Beau Bethune ’92 with son Jackson Bethune V “Penn”
CHARLENE MURRAY GREEN ’51 Grandmother of Aimee Hyatt ’02, Aaron Hyatt ’06, and Adler Hyatt ’14; mother-in-law of faculty member Nan Hyatt FAY RICE ATKINSON ’54 Mother of Robert Atkinson ’76, Anne Atkinson ’77, and Alice Atkinson ’83
Miles Theodore Adams, son of Jennifer Adams ’92
Robert and Kathryn Anne Keller, children of Lauren Malone Keller ’01
WILLIAM CLIFTON STOUTZ ’87 Brother of Catherine Stoutz ’90 WILLIAM HUNTINGTON WOOD ’88 Brother of Carter Wood ’92
Brett Vogt ’02 with his wife Beth, Brantley, and Bennett.
Lauren Malone Keller ’01 and husband Rob welcomed their second child, Kathryn Anne Keller, on December 7, 2015.
In January Hallie Kuhn Wilkins ’09 and husband Newlin welcomed baby Celeste Marianne Wilkins.
JIM ROGERS Husband of former faculty member Pam Rogers DR. R. ROYCE SISTRUNK Father of Mike Sistrunk ’71, Terry Sistrunk ’76, and Shawn Sistrunk ’77; father-in law of Lane Malony Sistrunk ’76 MARILYN JULIAN STEIB Grandmother of Brad Collins ’04 and Doug ’10; mother of faculty member Jenny Steib Collins THOMAS WULFF Father of Steve Wulff ’82 and Nancy Wulff Callaway ’89
WILLIAM FRANK BECKER, JR. Father of Judy Becker Martin ’80; father-in-law of Michael Louis Martin ’78; grandfather of Michael William Joseph Martin ’12 and Gerald Louis Becker Martin ’15
Celeste Marianne Wilkins, daughter of Hallie Kuhn Wilkins ’09
Stephanie Kaston Gutierrez ’01 and her husband RJ are the proud parents of a baby girl. Ariel Ruth Kaston Gutierrez (she will be called Ari) was born April 15, 2016 at 7 lbs., 5 oz. and 18". On October 17, 2015, Brett Vogt ’02 welcomed the newest addition to his family, Bennett Christopher Vogt.
J. DUREL LANDRY ’58 PAUL MUEHLEMANN JR. ’62 Husband of Patty Habeeb Muehlemann '65
Born September 21, 2015 was Thomas Jackson Bethune V “Penn” to Beau Bethune ’92 and wife Kathlyn. He was 9 lbs., 2 oz., and 21" .
On December 16, 2015, Katie Wester-Neal ’98 and her husband Zach Neal welcomed two sons, Charles Bennett Neal and Andrew James Neal. The twins join big sister Madeleine.
AUSTIN CHANDLER NAREMORE Son of Bruce Naremore ’76
LT. COL. ROBERT SANDERS CRAWFORD ’54
On December 29, 2015, Jennifer Adams ’92 gave birth to Miles Theodore Adams, who arrived weighing 7 lbs.15 oz., and 21”.
Wesley Rolston Gibson ’96 and her husband welcomed their third child, Wyatt William Gibson, on October 30, 2015. Big brother Charlie and big sister Lucy are enamored!
ROBERT SIMMONS DOLESE Husband of Martha Mallory Dolese ’54
Hunter Hass, son of Kellie Phillips ’13.
In November, Kellie Phillips ’13 and fiancé Keith Hass welcomed baby Hunter Hass, at 6 lbs.1 oz. and 20".
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Exciting times ahead
for the NEW school year! MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE UPCOMING EVENTS. First Day of School August 17 SCO Back to School Bash August 21 Upper School Parents’ Night August 25 George Cottage and Lower School Parents’ Night August 30 Middle School Parents’ Night September 1 Homecoming September 30 Lower School Night October 14 SCO Golf Tournament November 4 St. Martin’s Art Market November 12 Grandparents’ Day November 22