CONNECTIONS THE DIFFERENCE YOU MAKE
2025 CAMPUS UPDATES / ANNUAL GIVING REPORT / ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS
ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM
ALICE CLARK ‘98
ROBERT MCGEHEE Head of School
Assistant Head of School
COURTNEY LOPEZ GERVAIS
PRESTON STEGER
Director of Development
Director of Marketing & Communications
ANNE LEE
Executive Assistant
JEFF DENTON
Director of Operations & Facilities
KATE MCBRYAR ‘95 Director of Admissions
LESLIE GREEN
Director of Finance
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Carolyn Brock Jessica Crutchfield Paul Darr Barbara Dawkins Blake Feagans ’03 Elizabeth Forrester Amy Grogg Tiffany Holland Bob Jackson Jay Mayfield ’91
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Gordon Parker Jared Powers The Rev. Janice Robbins Keith Sanford Niraj Shah ’97, Chair Rita Shridharani Erin Sizemore ’92 Ricky Thomas Shaw Wilson
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 School Leadership 3 Table of Contents 4 Letter from the Head of School
CAMPUS UPDATES 6 Campus Beautification Project 8 Cafeteria Soundproofing Improvements 10 New Leadership at St. Nicholas
ANNUAL REPORT 12 Building the Arch 13 Ways to Give 14 Donor Recognition 19 Gatsby Gala & Auction
ALUMNI UPDATES 23 Updates by Class 25 Class of 2018 Committments 27 Weddings & Families 28 Class of 2018 Day 30 Alumni Chapel 2025 33 GPS-McCallie Talent Show 2025 34 Alisha Chandra '18 on Local 3 News 35 Grandparents Day
IN THE LIFE OF ST. NICHOLAS 36 Honoring Sally Williams 38 MindPrint at St. Nicholas 39 Thank You to Angela Daugherty Buhlman
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FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL Our success in fundraising was further highlighted by record-breaking auctions organized by the Parents' Auxiliary over the past two years. These events brought our community together and netted proceeds that surpassed record levels for 10 and 12 years ago! This support is vital for programs and initiatives at St. Nicholas and allows the head of school to say, “Yes,” to new programs and opportunities for students. Academically, our teachers are dedicated to providing a child-centered, individualized approach that challenges each student to reach their potential. This commitment is evident in our ongoing evaluation of our curriculum and learning resources. This past year, our faculty focused on ensuring the science curriculum is vertically aligned across all grade levels while updating resources and adopting new texts. Looking ahead, we are embarking on a four-year rotation to continuously review and update our curriculum in the core classes. We will continue with our reading curriculum in the 2025-2026 school year, followed by math in 2026-2027, and language arts in 2027-2028. This ongoing process ensures that we maintain best practices in teaching and learning while maintaining consistency and a high level of challenge throughout our core courses.
GO WAVES!!! We are off to another great year at St. Nicholas School. The school continues to grow and thrive. It has been a great pleasure to be a part of our growth! Due to the dedication and support of our entire community, St. Nicholas continues to experience robust enrollment growth, which speaks to the quality of our teachers and our programming. Nurturing the spiritual, social, and emotional growth within each student while helping them achieve their full academic potential is still our central focus.
At St. Nicholas School, we remain dedicated to fostering an environment where every student can excel academically, socially, and emotionally. None of our achievements would be possible without the ongoing support and collaboration of our dedicated community members. As we continue to grow and innovate, we continue to honor and acknowledge our Episcopal identity as the foundation for developing each student’s spiritual identity. Chapel five days a week, combined with an environment rooted in understanding that everyone has unique gifts and talents. Everyone should be valued, and our community is stronger because of our differences.
We are proud to share that our enrollment has grown 40% over the past three years, with our current enrollment at 181 students. This growth is a testament to the outstanding educational experience we provide and the increasing recognition of St. Nicholas in our community.
We invite you to stay connected with us and be part of our journey forward. Your involvement, whether through alumni events, volunteer opportunities, or philanthropic support, makes a significant difference in the lives of our students and strengthens the fabric of our school community.
Along with the enrollment growth, we are excited to report that our Annual Fund participation reached an all-time high this past year, with over 96% participation among parents, faculty, staff, and board members. This exceptional level of support underscores the strong commitment and generosity of our community toward advancing our mission and enriching the educational opportunities for our students.
Thank you for your support of St. Nicholas School. Together, we are shaping a bright future for our students and ensuring that St. Nicholas remains a beacon for educational excellence in Chattanooga and the southeastern region.
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Very sincerely, Robert McGehee
CAMPUS UPDATES
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FRONT ENTRANCE LANDSCAPING PROJECT UNDERWAY Every visitor’s first impression of St. Nicholas begins at the front entrance. Thanks to the generosity of our community during this year’s Gatsby Auction & Gala, that first impression is about to become even more beautiful, meaningful, and distinctly “St. Nicholas.” The Paddle Raise at the gala provided the momentum for a long-envisioned project: enhancing the landscaping at the entrance of our campus. Progress is well underway, and this fall, families are beginning to see that vision take shape. At the heart of the project is Paul Darr, a talented landscape architect, past parent, and current Board member. Paul has generously offered his time and expertise to guide the design and planning process. His thoughtful approach reflects both professional excellence and a deep personal connection to our school.
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"I was thrilled when St. Nicholas began discussing ways to beautify the campus and create a stronger presence and front door for the school," Darr said. "It has been an honor to be part of the design process for this effort. This project has been especially meaningful as a way to give back to the school that has shaped my children and given so much to our family." The new frontage along Min Tom Road will bring year-round beauty through blooms, textures, and a robust pollinator garden, while also adding structure with brick columns, fencing, and gates. The design incorporates native plants chosen not just for their beauty, but also for their educational value. These plantings will give students the opportunity to observe, care for, and learn from their own environment.
“What excites me most is that these plants will give us a living classroom,” said Rob Varner, St. Nicholas gardening teacher. “Students will be able to dig in, care for the plants, watch how they change with the seasons, and really understand what it means to be part of an ecosystem. It’s a chance for them to see that learning doesn’t just happen inside the classroom door. At St. Nicholas, it’s right under their feet and all around them.” Timing is critical for the health of new plantings, so installation is slated to begin this fall, when cooler weather helps roots establish more easily. Work on the school’s new fencing began in midSeptember. As the landscaping takes root, the front entrance will stand as a daily reminder of what’s possible when our community comes together with love and purpose. "The beautification project is taking shape,” said Head of School Robert McGehee. “This project will create a more welcoming and attractive entrance to our beautiful 24-acre campus, enhancing the first impression for all who visit. The generous support for this project is a true celebration of the excitement, enthusiasm, and shared commitment that define the St. Nicholas community. We are deeply grateful for your partnership in making this vision a reality."
PADDLE RAISE DONORS Jarrod and Porche' Adams Jamie and Maggie Barrie Alex and Mandy Bohner Mark and Margie Burgin Eric and Kali Chastain Rush Luhowiak and Lizzie Chazen Will and Alice Clark Paul and Emily Darr Alex and Lauren Dunbar John Eyster Mark Feagans and Leslie Gower Devon and Varsha Ghodasra
Chris and Katie Gooden Amy Grogg Josh and Chelsey Height Derek and Tiffany Holland Marina and Tatyana Joab David and Stephanie Lamar Evan and Mary Kathryn Levy Clark and Michelle Lusk Sumner and Katie McCallie Brett and Anna Melnikoff Dan and Sarah Moore Kellie Norman
Michael and Lisa Revenig Rohan and Radhika Shah Guru and Neha Shah Niraj and Charuni Shah Scott and Allison Shaw Anand and Rita Shridharani Thomas and Laura Smith Shalin and Niti Tejani Scott and Susan Wilson Anonymous Donor
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A QUIETER CAFETERIA 8 ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL
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SOUNDPROOFING PANELS INSTALLED St. Nicholas School worked over the summer on a facility enhancement designed to improve the daily experience for students and staff: the installation of soundproofing panels in the school cafeteria. Funded entirely through contributions to the school's Annual Fund, St. Nicholas partnered with Air[]Space Acoustics to install PET Acoustic Felt Cloud Panels and Wall Panels engineered to absorb sound and reduce reverberation. The soundproofing is helping make the cafeteria a calmer and more enjoyable space for students and staff alike. Quieter environments make conversations easier to maintain without raising your voice, reduce confusion during transitions, and create an atmosphere where students can recharge. This upgrade allows teachers and staff to communicate more effectively during lunch, aftercare, and summer camp, reinforcing safety and allowing for clear communication within the space.
ANNUAL FUND CONTRIBUTIONS MAKE ENHANCEMENTS POSSIBLE Tuition at St. Nicholas covers a large part of the school's operational expenses, but the Annual Fund provides critical resources for enhancements that go above and beyond. This includes capital improvements, educational resources, professional development, and campus upgrades, such as the cafeteria soundproofing. Those interested in contributing to the Annual Fund or learning more about current initiatives can visit the Annual Fund page at stns.org or contact Director of Development, Courtney Lopez Gervais, at cgervais@stns.org.
HOW SOUNDPROOFING BENEFITS OUR SCHOOL CAFETERIA Reduces ambient noise levels during lunch and transitions Improves speech clarity for both students and staff Creates a calmer, less stressful environment Supports stronger supervision and student interaction
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NEW LEADERSHIP AT ST. NICHOLAS KATE MCBRYAR ‘95
Alumna Kate McBryar now serves as Director of Admissions and Enrollment, bringing professional experience and a lifelong connection to St. Nicholas. She began her administrative career here as Director of Development, where her leadership and dedication to the school’s mission made a lasting impact. In her new role, Kate combines her knowledge of St. Nicholas with a strong sense of purpose, guiding families through the admissions process with warmth and clarity. She is committed to ensuring each family feels supported and welcomed as they join the school community.
COURTNEY LOPEZ GERVAIS
Courtney joined St. Nicholas as Director of Development in July 2025, bringing nearly a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership and educational advancement. She has served in key roles with the Santa Fe Community Foundation and the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, stewarding major gifts, building corporate partnerships, and planning donor initiatives. Most recently a development consultant, Courtney brings creativity, compassion, and a strong track record of relationship-building to her new role.
LESLIE GREEN
Leslie stepped into her new role as Director of Finance in July 2025, bringing more than 25 years of experience in finance and office administration. She most recently served as Finance and Human Resources Director for the Lowcountry Council of Governments and spent nearly two decades as Senior Accountant with the Hilton Head Public Service District. Leslie holds an MBA and a degree in office administration, and she brings both expertise and warmth to her work at St. Nicholas.
PRESTON STEGER
Preston joined St. Nicholas in January 2025 as Director of Marketing & Communications. He previously worked as a digital content producer at WVEC-TV in Norfolk, Virginia, and WRCB-TV in Chattanooga before serving as a public relations specialist for Henrico County, Virginia. A graduate of Lee University with a degree in communications, he is also pursuing graduate studies in spiritual direction at Richmont Graduate University. He is passionate about storytelling and sharing the mission of St. Nicholas with the wider community.
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ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25
BECAUSE OF YOU, OUR STUDENTS FLOURISH. ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL
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BUILDING THE ARCH Like stones forming an arch, the strength of St. Nicholas comes from each person who shows up. No single gift can hold the weight alone, but together, your generosity creates something strong, lasting, and beautiful. Every contribution to the Annual Fund helps bridge the gap between tuition and the true cost of a St. Nicholas education. These gifts make possible the resources, experiences, and opportunities that help our students flourish intellectually, socially, and spiritually. Because of you, we’re able to say “yes” to what matters most: excellent teaching, joyful learning, and a community where every child is deeply known and supported.
GIVE TODAY AND PLACE YOUR STONE. SCAN THE QR CODE ON THE RIGHT.
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EVERY GIFT MAKES A DIFFERENCE Families give in different ways, and each contribution helps move our community forward. Below are a few avenues supporters often use when making their annual gift.
WAYS TO GIVE CASH/CREDIT CARD GIFTS The majority of gifts to St. Nicholas are in the form of cash, check or credit card. Credit cards accepted include Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Gifts can also be made online at stns.org.
STOCK GIFTS By giving appreciated long-term stock directly to St. Nicholas, you may receive a charitable tax deduction for the full value of the stock.
MATCHING GIFTS
Many companies match donations made by their employees and retirees to independent schools. The value of an individual’s gift can be doubled, or even tripled, through corporate matching gifts. Since matching gifts must be initiated by the donor, please inquire whether your employer has such a program.
PLANNED GIFTS AND BEQUESTS The St. Nicholas Legacy Society was established to acknowledge alumni, parents, and friends who have included St. Nicholas as a beneficiary in their estate plans. Testamentary designations can be by amount or as a percentage of the estate value. Planned gifts provide us with the ability to think strategically about the school’s future. Generous and forwardthinking donors who leave planned gifts or a bequest intention through St. Nicholas School’s Legacy Society support our long-term success and are deeply appreciated.
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ANNUAL REPORT FRIENDS
HEAD OF SCHOOL CIRCLE
Anonymous Ted and Amy Arrowsmith George and Anne Bright Varsha and Devon Ghodasra '95 Amy Grogg Bob and Pat Hartje Drew E. Haskins, III and Drew Haskins, IV '97 Derek and Tiffany Holland Ryan and Rachel Hood Lowry and Jane Kline Robert and Emily McGehee Wendy and Peter Petruzzi '83 Julie and Keith Sanford
1958 SOCIETY
Jim and Shelley Kirkpatrick
HONOR ROLL
Anonymous Mitch Baldree and Marie Farrar Andy Brown and Britney Cooke Matt and Jena Burgin Rod and Elise Chamberlain Gary and Sally Chazen James and Betty Clark Mark Feagans David and Cynthia Garvey John and Lisa Harrison Ben Hazlerig and Lucy Wansley Bryce and Kate Kirksey Charlie and Rachel Martin Leigh and Jay Mayfield '91 Sumit Patel and Purvi Sheth Revs. Buckley and Janice Robbins Barry and Mindy Ruffalo Stefan Seemungal Anand and Rita Shridharani Warren and Katherine Smith Niti and Shalin Tejani '94 Atmar and Tracy Thompson James and Vanessa Torrence Andy and Celeste Weaver John and Jessica Wood Carter and Debbie Young
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SUPPORTERS CONT.
Tonya and Roshan Amin '96 John Butler and Nicole Benjamin Laura and Jeff Bertrand Matt and Liz Callahan Will and Alice Clark '98 Richard and Lisa Callegari Elisabeth Craig Andrew Carlone and Andrea Bozja Tony and Lisa D'Andrea Troy and Haley Carter Jeff and Laura Denton Al and Mary Ceren Sean and Erin Dougherty Anuj and Lotika Chandra Wally and Shannon Edmondson Eric and Kali Chastain James and Heather Elliott Henry and Virginia Cheng James D. and Livia Elliott Tori Clark Melanie Ferguson David and Mandy Colvin '94 Jonathan and Kimberly Fiorello Tammy Combs Chris and Katie Gooden '92 Susan Conrad '95 Hank and Margaret Hopping Will and Sarah Copeland David and Karin Lamar Will and Tonia Cox Anne Lee Angella Crabtree Maria Kain Matthews Paul and Jessica Crutchfield Sumner and Katie McCallie Manuel and Faba Cruz Hunter and Mary Catherine McCord Molly Culbreath Travis and Emmy McGowin Paul and Emily Darr '93 Eduardo Muñoz and Arlette Avila Brandon and Amanda Davenport Ken Neal and Bethany Patten Barbara Dawkins Michael and Lisa Revenig Patrick and Allison Decker Thomas and Teresa Rimer Katherine Dent Charuni and Niraj Shah '97 April Denton Indra and Smita Shah Timothy and Christine Denton Jim and Fern Shire Julian and Rachel Dossche Chuck and Teabra Swafford Chelsea Drabik Clark and Judy Taylor Alex and Lauren Dunbar Bruce and Stacey Dyer Hannah Eason SUPPORTERS Bobby and Elisabeth Eaton Jarrod and Porche' Adams Norman and Linda Elkins John and Annette Adams Brandon and Natia Ellis Rachel and Matthew Addison '91 Tony and Wendy Elrod Maribel Aguirre Katie and Blake Feagans '03 Curtis and Suzy Baggett Jennie Flint Rick and Cara Barrett James and Karen Fulmer Joel and Cheryl Bautista Deanna Fults Daniel and Lindsay Beckler Rachel Galliano Barbara Blair Phani Gadde and Anusha Gutta Alex and Mandy Bohner ‘83 Matt and Amanda Gilles Mary Helen Bailey Bondurant '81 Danny Gork Rob and Britlee Bowden Sambasiva Gottam and Mounika Are Ben and Carolyn Brock John and Cindy Grzesiak James and Carmen Brock Asghar and Greyssy Haider Hannah Brooks Kathleen Hanson Lisa Brown Sara Harrison
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ANNUAL REPORT SUPPORTERS CONT.
Josh and Chelsey Height Hershal and Yesha Patel Stefan Heinemann and Asita Flora Mehul and Anandi Patel Brandmueller Visheshkumar and Trusha Patel William and Erica Hewitt Bryce and Natalie Patric Maddy Hitel Aaron and Lauren Petticord Weldon and Carolyn Holland Lisi Phillips Terry Hood Ben and Ashleigh Pipes '88 Bob and Sara Jackson Amy Poe Molly Jamieson '84 Phil and Susie Pollock Joseph and Dianna Janini Diana Poloniato Michael and Amy Johnson Tony and Lynda Pritchett Fox and Jarmin Johnston Jake and Katrina Proffitt Daniel and Emilee Kahn Brian and Carol Quinn Dirk and Nadia Kain Sean and Andrea Rice Carlos and Eunice Kal Nancy Riley Patrick and Sonja Kelleher Morgen Rose ‘94 Christian King Katie King Martin Ross and Maria Albertina Stephan and Melissa Koettig Gianelli Kirk and Anne Krueger Ajay and Crysta Rupramka Sarma and Prabha Kunda Kit Rushing and Fran Bender David and Stephanie Lamar Nilesh Sah and Shamili Gupta Thomas and Molly Lang Gray and Megan Salladay Cass and Amie Larson Lucien Scott Kevin and Catherine Leckenby Guru and Neha Shah ‘00 Bryan and Megan Lubaway Lauren Shaheen Rush Luhowiak and Lizzie Chazen ‘96 Scott and Allison Shaw Aditya Mandawat and Priya Carey Shinbaum '87 Vijayvargiya Erin Sizemore '92 Harveer and Franika Mann Dustin and Sarah Smith Karla Manouar Kevin and Paula Snead Richard and Stephanie Marshall Austin Starkey and Kathleen Susan Martin Harrison '01 Bob and Kate McBryar '95 Laura Stephens Katie McCall and Wes Giglio '99 Michael and Kristen McCallie MacKenzie Strickland Tim and Katie McCorkle Gordon Strunk and Sarah Lear Janette McMahan '82 Kate Stultz Brett and Anna Melnikoff Anjali Koka and Ojas Tejani '89 Amy and Ben Miller '90 Mike and Julie Thornburg Jay and Jennifer Mills Elizabeth Turner Brian and Kara Miscio Tom Turner Dan and Sarah Moore Satish Vadlamani and Sree Nukala Christine Morgan Doug Vanderbilt, II ‘85 Lynne Mulligan Nicholas and Meagan Vaphiadis David and Heather Neiles Rob Varner Lesa Newberry Jim and Briana Vastano John and Katelyn O'Brien Matthew Villanueva and Linda Gordon and Kit Parker Johnson Amish and Punam Patel Bri Wade Amit and Nisha Patel Matthew and Alyssa Wade Danish and Manisha Patel Emish and Richa Patel Linda Weaver
Flossie Weill Michael and Allison Weston The Rev. Brad Whitaker David and Lauren White Sally Williams Bill and Starr Wilson David and Katie Wilson Jason and Stephanie Wingo Patrick and Stephanie Young Paul and Ginny Young
HERITAGE PARTNERS
Niti and Shalin Tejani ‘94
MATCHING GIFT PARTNERS
Coca-Cola IBM The Home Depot
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LEGACY SOCIETY These friends of St. Nicholas School have remembered the school in a long-term way by either naming St. Nicholas in their estate plans or making a deferred gift to the school. Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Baggett Mrs. Mary Helen Bailey Bondurant ‘81 Dr. and Mrs. Glenn H. Boyd Mr. and Mrs. Paul K. Brock, Jr. Ms. Andrée Caldwell Mr. and Mrs. Melvin D. Cooper Dr. Elisabeth M. Craig Mr. and Mrs. Tony D’Andrea, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Eaton, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Roger Fitch Dr. Jitendra Gandhi Mr. and Mrs. David G. Garvey Mr. and Mrs. William C. Haisten, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Gregg Hansen Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Haskins Dr. and Mrs. Derek Holland Mrs. Maria Kain Matthews The Revs. Buckley and Janice Robbins
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TRIBUTE GIFTS HONORARIA
MEMORIAL GIFTS
IN HONOR OF CAILYN, BAILEY, ANNE MARIE, AND CRUZ Joel and Cheryl Bautista
IN MEMORY OF GUADALUPE NAVA MORENO Arlette Avila and Eduardo Muñoz
IN HONOR OF GROUSE BROCK Carmen and James Brock
IN MEMORY OF TONY BROWN Lisa Brown
IN HONOR OF KINSLEY CHENG Virginia and Henry Cheng
IN MEMORY OF JULIE FEAGANS Blake and Katie Feagans Mark Feagans
IN HONOR OF DREW AND ELLIE HOLLAND Weldon and Carolyn Holland IN HONOR OF ELEANOR ANNE MELNIKOFF Kirk and Anne Krueger IN HONOR OF KATE McBRYAR Shannon Moore Edmonson IN HONOR OF CHELSEA DRABIK Shannon Moore Edmondson
IN MEMORY OF CYNDI KING Kate and Bob McBryar IN MEMORY OF REV. JAMES D. CURTIS - JAMES D. CURTIS MEMORIAL FUND Polly Curtis and Ben Curtis IN MEMORY OF SHERRY LECKENBY - NANCY MOURON MEMORIAL FUND Jeff and Cathy Harvey
IN HONOR OF ANNE BENDER RUSHING IN MEMORY OF THOMAS TUCKER DUNBAR Kittrell Rushing and Fran Bender Carol Kay and Phil Johnson IN HONOR OF NYLA SHRIDHARANI Anand and Rita Shridharani IN HONOR OF COLLIER SMITH Katherine and Warren Smith IN HONOR OF SHALIN TEJANI Carter and Debbie Young ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL
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LIBRARY BOOK CLUB Jarrod and Porche’ Adams Hannah Brooks John and Nichole Butler Matt and Elizabeth Callahan Eric and Kali Chastain Wei and Denise Chen Henry and Virginia Cheng Will and Sarah Copeland Sean and Erin Dougherty Brandon and Natia Ellis Joseph and Riley Galliano Devon and Varsha Ghodasra Matt and Amanda Gilles Chris and Katie Gooden Sara Harrison Joshua and Chelsey Height Will and Erica Hewitt Daniel and Emilee Kahn Patrick and Sonja Kelleher Cass and Amie Larson Bryan and Megan Lubaway Tonya Lowery and Shannon Mackey Karla Manouar Charlie and Rachel Martin William and Syrie Mills Bob and Kate McBryar Brett and Anna Melnikoff Eduardo Muñoz and Arlette Avila Ken Neal and Bethany Patten David Neiles and Heather Law-Neiles Clint and Dayra Olson Franika Patel and Harveer Mann Emish and Richa Patel Dennis and Manisha Patel Amish and Punam Patel Bryce and Natalie Patric Jake and Katrina Proffitt
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Gray and Megan Salladay Niraj and Charuni Shah Anand and Rita Shridharani Thomas and Laura Smith Sarah Smith Austin Starkey and Kathleen Harrison Chris and Mary Stocker Shalin and Niti Tejani Matthew and Alyssa Wade Andy and Celeste Weaver Stephanie Wingo
ALL IN FOR
ST. NICHOLAS SAVE THE DATE!
ST. NICHOLAS AUCTION & GALA Get ready for an unforgettable night! Save the date for “All In for St. Nicholas,” a night of Vegas-themed fun here in the Scenic City.
MARCH 21
2026
THE WESTIN CHATTANOOGA 801 PINE STREET ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL
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GALA SPONSORS PLATINUM | $10,000
Ringgold Telephone Company (RTC)
Anonymous Sysco Tennessee Reproductive Medicine Chattanooga Zoo Volunteer Industrial
SUSTAINER | $2,500
PATRON | $500
Textile Rubber & Chemical Company (TRCC)
PREMIER | $5,000
Bethany Patten Homes Burgin Homebuilders EverLine Coating and Services/JAN PRO Cleaning and Disinfecting Hood, CPA and Associates International Flooring Company Tennessee Oncology Tom’s Flooring
FOUNDER | $1,958 Ocoee Oral Surgery EPB
BENEFACTOR | $1,000 Chattbooth Barred Owl Web Baylor School BEAM Pediatric Dental Studio Benchmark Masonry LLC Black Creek Chattanooga Bridges LLC Choo Choo Golf Academy & Range Dr. Devon ‘95 and Varsha Ghodasra Drs. Rita and Anand Shridharani Drs. Sumit Patel and Purvi Sheth First Bank GPS Implants & Oral Surgery Joseph and Dianna Janini Leisure Time Bowling PUTT-A-BOUT RJ Young Shalin ‘94 and Niti Tejani Signature Staging Company
Alyssa Wade, Keller Williams Realty Amy Grogg Ben and Carolyn Brock Chattanooga Allergy Clinic Dr. David and Stephanie Lamar Drs. Amit and Nisha Patel Elisha Millan Emish and Richa Patel Gordon and Kit Parker Jon and Kimberly Fiorello Marsh McLennan Agency McCallie School RockPointBank Roger and Missy Talley Scenic City Orthodontics St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Stephen and Dr. Elizabeth Forrester The Barn Nursery Valley Wine and Spirits
FRIEND | $250
Bill and Starr Wilson Bob and Kate McBryar ‘95 Dr. Charles and Misa Ankar Dr. Kate and Bryce Kirksey Drs. Brett and Anna Melnikoff Gray and Megan Salladay Hazel & Honey Beauty In Memory of Tom Wolfe Jacob and Katrina Proffitt Jarrod and Dr. Porche’ Adams Phoenix Financial Partners Co. Willie and Lisa Warren ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL
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ALUMNI UPDATES
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CLASS OF 2004
Andrew Newman earned his master's degree in Real Estate Development. Elle Welch recently started a new job at a New York-based PR firm, SourceCode Communications, working with enterprise tech clients such as Amazon and Getty Images.
CLASS OF 2007 EMMA GEFTER ‘07
Emma Gefter works as a photojournalist at WHAS11 in Louisville, Kentucky. Her work spans breaking news, UK football, and community-driven stories. She has already earned three Society of Professional Journalists awards, along with an Emmy nomination for team coverage of a breaking news event. Jordan McGuffee has built an impressive academic and professional path, culminating in her graduation from Boston College Law School in 2024. While there, she led the Mock Trial Team to a top-four finish in the National Trial Competition and was selected to compete in the prestigious Top Gun Tournament. Jordan now works in New York City at Freshfields Law Firm, specializing in white-collar defense and commercial litigation.
CLASS OF 2009 JORDAN MCGUFFEE ‘07
Alexandria “Lexie” Kyriakidis Parks recently returned to her family’s business, Acropolis Mediterranean Grill, becoming the first of the third generation to step into a senior leadership role. As Social Media, Marketing, Events, and Catering Manager, she works alongside her family to celebrate Acropolis’s 30-year legacy while helping guide the restaurant into its next chapter. Lexie credits her St. Nicholas education with shaping the problem-solving, creativity, and curiosity that fuel her success.
CLASS OF 2010
Whitley Smith graduated from Lincoln Memorial University in 2025. She got married in October 2024 to Travis Aikman.
CLASS OF 2013 ALEXANDRIA KYRIAKIDIS PARKS ‘09
Theo Kyriakidis graduated from the University of Alabama in May 2025 with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
CLASS OF 2015
Ian Brunetz, now a student at the University of Alabama, was named a 2025–26 Barry Goldwater Scholar, one of just 441 students nationwide to receive this prestigious recognition for undergraduates pursuing research careers in science, mathematics, and engineering. He also earned the Randall Undergraduate Research Award in Biology, the university’s highest honor for undergraduate research. This summer, Ian conducted field research in Alaska at the Toolik Field Station. ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL WHITLEY SMITH ‘10
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CLASS OF 2016
Joshua Lefkoff is in his senior year at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he is studying mechanical engineering. This year, he is serving as president of the Crew (rowing) club and leading Service Learning and Outreach with 3D Printers by Engineers (SLOPE).
CLASS OF 2018
Before graduating from Baylor School this spring, Alisha Chandra, Gilbert Stein, and Vivian Vetzel were recipients of this year’s Hubert Stagmaier Award, given to outstanding allaround seniors. Alisha is attending Dartmouth College, Gilbert is attending Samford University, and Vivian is attending the University of Tennessee. Vetzel was also the recipient of this year’s Orchestra Award.
THEO KYRIAKIDIS ‘13
Gilbert added his name to the Baylor record books in the decathlon championship with a 6,422-point performance at the TSSAA DII-AA state tournament. He also placed second in the triple jump and third in the 110 and 300 hurdles. Earlier in the season, Gilbert earned Most Valuable Male Athlete honors and the Midsouth Invitational. Isabelle Cox was the recipient of the Upper School Community Service Award at Baylor. She is attending the University of Tennessee. Noah Miles was a member of Baylor’s All-Region lacrosse team and will continue playing collegiately at Lynn University.
GILBERT STEIN ‘18
STNS GRADS THEN, MCCALLIE GRADS NOW
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CLASS OF ‘18 COMMITMENTS
FRANCES BOHNER
LILLIAN EATON
Committed to swimming at Davidson College in North Carolina
Committed to rowing at Rollins College in Florida
NOAH MILES
ZACH SCHURR
Committed to play lacrosse at Lynn University in Florida
Committed to swimming at Kutztown University in Pennsylvania
WALKER FORRESTER
Committed to play lacrosse at Centre College in Kentucky
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CLASS OF 2018 CONT.
Zach Schurr graduated from McCallie School in May 2025 and is currently attending Kutztown University in Pennsylvania, where he plans to double major in Early Elementary Education and Psychology. A lifelong member of the Cumberland Currents, he also swam for McCallie/GPS Aquatics and was part of McCallie’s three-time state championship team.
CLASS OF 2019
Alex Brumley is making waves in diving, earning a third-place finish at the TISCA State Diving Meet. She was also named an All-American on the 1m springboard, placing her among the top 100 divers in the nation. Alex is a student at Boyd Buchanan School.
JAMES MCCORKLE ‘19
Mia Brunetz is beginning her senior year at Girls Preparatory School, where she holds several leadership roles and will serve as Student Council President. She also gives back to the community as an Austin Hatcher Foundation Teen Ambassador, serving as sponsorship chair. James McCorkle was selected for Baylor’s David M. Abshire Leadership Trip to Washington, D.C., and the Joe “Sarge” Key Trip to Maine. He was also the winner of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution’s Eagle Scout Essay Contest at the local and state levels. The National Council of Teachers of English announced that Calen Hawk received a 2025 NCTE Award in writing, in his junior year at Baylor.
SOPHIE GROGG ’21
CLASS OF 2021
Sophie Grogg was recently selected as part of the inaugural cohort of the Laureate Scholars Program at Girls Preparatory School. This new initiative provides sophomores and juniors with opportunities to pursue a personalized concentration through coursework, independent projects, and community engagement.
CLASS OF 2022
Anna Card was the recipient of Baylor's Middle School Michelle Kadrie Award at the annual Eighth Grade Ceremony on May 16. Grady Colvin was a member of Baylor’s Middle School Debate Club and was named Outstanding Statesperson at the annual YMCA Youth in Government Conference in March. Alex Kelley received Baylor’s Middle School Choir Award at the annual Eighth Grade Ceremony. Nissa Ruth received Baylor’s Middle School Scholar-Athlete Award at the annual Eighth Grade Ceremony.
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GRADY COLVIN ‘22
WEDDINGS & FAMILIES
ANDREW NEWMAN CLASS OF 2004
SALLY NEWMAN CLASS OF 2008
ELLE WELCH CLASS OF 2004
Andrew welcomed the birth of his second child, Thomas Read, on December 1, 2024.
Sally married Devyn Michael Burkeen on May 25, 2024.
Elle welcomed a daughter, Lola Louise Brock, in April 2024.
JACK HARRISON-QUINTANA CLASS OF 1999
BLAKE FEAGANS CLASS OF 2003
THOMAS WHITE IV CLASS OF 2006
In 2024, Jack married his partner of ten years, Vincent Penge. In 2025, the couple welcomed a daughter named Towa into the world with their family partner, Azusa.
Blake and his wife, Katie, welcomed their son, William, on August 16, 2024. Their family connection to St. Nicholas runs deep. Blake’s daughter is a Level 1 student, and he is currently serving his third year on the Board of Trustees.
Thomas and his wife welcomed a son, Thomas Howard “Ward” White V, born January 3, 2025.
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MAY 13, 2025
CLASS OF 2018 DAY
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ALUMNI CHAPEL 2025 OCTOBER 3, 2025
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THEN & NOW
NIHAR PATEL, CALEB THORNBURG, & BLAKE FEAGANS '03
LAUREN WORLEY KNAUTH, MANDY COLVIN, & LAUREN PETERSON ‘94 32 ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL
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OUR ALUMS GOT TALENT. In February, McCallie School and Girls Preparatory School (GPS) once again partnered to host the annual GPS | McCallie Got Talent showcase, and several St. Nicholas alumni made us proud by sharing their gifts on stage. Praseeda Bathi ’24 earned the top Middle School prize with a vibrant Bollywood dance performance that had the audience cheering. Miles Kirksey ’23 impressed with a spirited violin rendition of “Sweet Child of Mine,” while Zach Shurr ’18 brought his signature energy as host. His brother, Jack Shurr ’18, added a heartfelt moment to the evening with a moving performance of John Legend’s “All of Me.” Seeing our graduates excel in their passions, whether in the arts, leadership, or service, reminds us of the strong foundation they built at St. Nicholas. Their achievements are a testament to the lifelong confidence, creativity, and love of learning that take root here. Photos provided by Michael McCallie. ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL
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MAKING WAVES IN THE COMMUNITY St. Nicholas alumna Alisha Chandra ’18 has made a remarkable impact on her community. Earlier this year, she was featured on Local 3 News’ Trends on 3 with anchor LaTrice Currie, highlighting her work with e2mc2— Empower to Motivate Community Change, the civic engagement organization she founded while still in high school. Through e2mc2, Alisha and her team have offered citizenship classes, hosted voter registration drives, and advocated for solutions to issues like homelessness and educational disparities. Her vision is simple yet powerful: to build a more equitable Chattanooga where every person has the opportunity to thrive. Alisha graduated from Baylor School in 2025 and is now beginning her studies at Dartmouth College. Her dedication to service and inclusivity reflect the very values we nurture at St. Nicholas, and we are proud to see her carrying them into the wider world.
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SCAN BELOW TO WATCH THE LOCAL 3 INTERVIEW
GRANDPARENTS DAY
Grandparents & Special Friends Day is one of the most cherished traditions at St. Nicholas, and this year’s celebration on April 17 was no exception. The morning was filled with warmth, joy, and connection as we welcomed grandparents and special friends to experience life on campus. Guests enjoyed heartwarming student performances, engaging classroom visits, and meaningful moments that captured the spirit of our community. It was a true celebration of the love and support that surround our students each day. Thank you to all who joined us for making it a morning to remember. ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL
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HONORING SALLY WILLIAMS On May 20, 2025, the St. Nicholas community gathered in chapel to celebrate and honor Sally Williams, our beloved Business Office & Human Resources Coordinator, as she prepared to retire after 28 years of service. The chapel was filled with music, stories, and laughter as students, faculty, and staff reflected on all that Sally has meant to the school. Level 7 students led the service, singing her favorite hymns and creatively spelling out “THANK YOU MS. SALLY” with words that captured her legacy, such as kindness, steadfastness, and love.
A STEADFAST PRESENCE SINCE 1997
Sally joined St. Nicholas on September 1, 1997, and for nearly three decades became a steady presence in the daily life of the school. She wore many hats, from balancing the accounting books to supporting staff and families with warmth and care. Along the way, her children, Levi and Ashton, also grew up at St. Nicholas, deepening her ties to the community.
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“For 28 years, Sally Williams was at the heart of St. Nicholas," said Head of School Robert McGehee. "Even with all her hats and duties, most will remember her as a friend, a mother, and I would say, a hero. She’s definitely a St. Nicholas hero. She is truly extraordinary.”
A LIFE WOVEN INTO THE COMMUNITY Her colleagues recall her generous spirit and devotion to prayer, describing her as someone who was not only efficient but deeply caring.
“We worked together for 19 years,” said Jeff Denton, Director of Operations. “She was amazing, very caring of our staff and families.” Sally’s life outside of work was filled with joy as well, whether cheering on the Tennessee Vols, visiting Graceland nearly every year, or singing along to Elvis Presley songs and watching his old movies. Her favorite Elvis classic, “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” fittingly played as the service concluded.
RECOGNIZING HER LEGACY
During the chapel, Sally received the 2025 Stanyarne Burrows Jr. Award, given to individuals whose leadership and contributions have helped shape the Episcopal identity of St. Nicholas. It was a fitting honor for someone whose quiet faith and daily example guided the school community for so long. As is tradition, Sally also received a framed and signed birthday prayer from the staff, an enduring reminder that she will always be part of the St. Nicholas family.
LOOKING AHEAD
Students closed the service by naming her a “lighthouse” in their lives, someone who helped them see what it means to let their light shine. That theme carried through every tribute, echoing the verse read from Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
As we look back on her extraordinary service, the St. Nicholas community celebrates Sally’s faith, laughter, and care for people. Her steady presence has left a lasting mark on the life of this school, and her spirit will always remain part of St. Nicholas. "Many years ago, someone explained to me that a hero is an ordinary person capable of doing extraordinary things," McGehee said. "That is Sally Williams. She worked very hard, treated everyone with a high degree of respect, and kindness, while managing the financial health of the School. I truly believe heroes live in our world, and St. Nicholas was fortunate to have its hero, Sally Williams."
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STUDENTS ‘LEARN TO LEARN’ WITH MINDPRINT At St. Nicholas, understanding how each child learns is an essential part of helping them thrive. One of the tools that brings that philosophy to life is MindPrint, a cognitive assessment that gives students, parents, and teachers insight into how each child thinks, problem-solves, and processes information. St. Nicholas has offered MindPrint for three years and is among the first elementary schools in the area to use it. The assessment was developed by Nancy Weinstein, founder and CEO of MindPrint Learning, who has even visited campus to see the program in action. It is provided to St. Nicholas families at no cost. Level 3 and 5 students complete the assessment each spring. For Level 3 students, the results provide valuable information for teachers and parents about how their child learns best. For Level 5 students, it goes a step further. Learning Specialist Mandy Colvin leads a weekly course where students explore their individual reports section by section.
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Together, they look at their learning strengths and areas for growth and discuss strategies that make studying and classroom work more effective. “Everyone understands that no one does better or worse on this,” Colvin said. “It’s a map of each student’s learning profile and a guide to using those strengths in the best way possible.” The goal is not just awareness but empowerment. By the time students leave St. Nicholas, they have learned how to advocate for themselves and take ownership of their learning. Those are skills that serve them well in middle school, high school, and beyond. “This supports the individualized approach we take with every student,” Colvin said. “MindPrint helps them understand themselves as learners and thinkers. They leave knowing how to use their strengths to grow.”
HONORING OUR STORY
For decades, St. Nicholas has captured the joy, learning, friendship, and tradition that make our school feel like home. Many of those images have long been part of the school’s archives, preserved but not easily accessible. This year, thanks to the dedicated work of Angela Daugherty Buhlman, that archive has been thoughtfully digitized and organized. Her efforts ensure that these irreplaceable photographs are protected and far easier for the school to reference, revisit, and share. They give us a clearer window into our early years, our traditions, and the people who helped shape St. Nicholas. The project carries a meaningful connection. Angela is the daughter of former Admissions Director Kathy Daugherty, whose warmth and welcome defined the St. Nicholas experience for generations of families. By safeguarding and modernizing our visual history, Angela continues her family’s legacy of care in a lasting way. We are grateful for Angela’s time, attention, and love for this school. Because of her work, the memories that built St. Nicholas are preserved with the intention and accessibility they deserve. ST. NICHOLAS SCHOOL
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WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Alumni of all ages, we want to hear from you! If you have any life updates or exciting news to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We love staying connected with our amazing community and can’t wait to see what you’ve been up to lately! Scan the code to the right to fill out an Alumni Update Form or email Director of Development, Courtney Lopez Gervais, at cgervais@stns.org.