The Summit Country Day School is a Catholic independent school minutes from downtown Cincinnati.
Affiliated with The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, we offer a coeducational experience for students from 18 months through grade 12. Our mission is to educate leaders of character across five pillars – spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically.
A Community of Purpose
Defining and Living the Hallmarks of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur
The Hallmarks were developed in 2003 when the Sisters and their learning communities began exploring what distinguishes a school as a Notre Dame de namur learning community. While each Notre Dame de Namur learning community is unique, the Hallmarks form a shared compass that guides our work and ensures we are faithfully delivering the Notre Dame de Namur mission to current and future generations of Summit students.
Hallmarks at The Summit are prominently displayed in the Main Building, on the first floor and throughout every classroom on campus. Rooted in the gospel, the seven Hallmarks describe the essential characteristics, values, and activities of our learning community.
Hallmark One: We proclaim by our lives even more than by our words that God is good.
Hallmark Two: We honor the dignity and sacredness of each person.
Hallmark Three: We educate for and act on behalf of justice, peace, and care for all creation.
Hallmark Four: We commit ourselves to community service.
Hallmark Five: We embrace the gift of diversity.
Hallmark Six: We create community among those with whom we work and with those we serve.
Hallmark Seven: We develop holistic learning communities which educate for life.
Recognizing that the Hallmarks of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur are not simply guiding principles, but essential to the identity of The Summit, the Board of Trustees in partnership with the Senior Leadership Team, and Sister Donna Jurick and Sister Mary Ann Barhorn, established a board committee on mission and Hallmarks this year. The committee takes a deeper systemic look at how the Hallmarks are woven into our culture and programs. The committee helps measure alignment with mission and advises on opportunities for formation, reflection, and growth. In addition, two dedicated teams of faculty and staff came together this year to thoughtfully review programs and strategic plan priorities, ensuring aspects reflect and reinforce the Hallmarks.
The Hallmarks are not confined to mission statements or leadership
On the Cover: Alex Bajorek ‘26, Callie Fox ‘26 and Kurtis Smith experiencing what it’s like to be in the
control tower at CVG
offices, the entire community actively embraces them. From the classroom to the boardroom and from carline to graduation, faculty, staff, students, and parents are engaging with the Hallmarks as a shared language of purpose. Faculty and staff have engaged in ongoing professional development through conferences, retreats, and reflective practice, all centered on deepening their understanding of the Hallmarks and strengthening their ability to embody them in every aspect of their work. Our students have traveled to national conferences on the Hallmarks and will continue to do so this summer. Our Parent Prayer Partners gather monthly to reflect on the Hallmarks and charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame.
At The Summit, the Hallmarks are at the very heart of the spiritual and educational foundation of our mission. You will see evidence of the Hallmarks in action as you read our Summit magazine. In our preschool, these Hallmarks take root early as our youngest students begin to see God in themselves and in one another through kindness and joyful learning. On the athletic fields and inside the classrooms, our soccer teams are state champions, modeling inclusivity and determination, building authentic community through teamwork. Innovation and bold vision are embodied in our Upper School’s new aviation program, preparing students for futures with purpose. You will see how a beloved faculty member celebrating her 47th year of teaching at The Summit is influenced by St. Julie and the Hallmarks. Read about how our eighth graders grow into active, reflective citizens making meaningful connections between their academic preparation and the world around them. Finally, you will see how our alumni and parents are living out the Hallmarks through service to others and strengthening endowment by sharing their gifts. These stories
exemplify the intergenerational partnership rooted in a shared purpose of advancing The Summit mission and Hallmarks. This has been an exciting year at The Summit. As The Summit approaches its 135th anniversary, we do so with hope, steadfast in our commitment to living the Hallmarks with renewed purpose guided by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. In this Juliee Year declared by Pope Francis, we are inspired by his call to be pilgrims of hope. Our community will continue to walk together with courage, compassion, and conviction. The future of The Summit is not just bright, it is mission driven, deeply rooted, and full of grace.
As we continue to walk in the spirit of the Hallmarks, please know that I am holding our Summit community in prayer. May your summer be filled with peace, renewal, and joy that comes from living God’s goodness each day.
Grow in Grace and Wisdom,
The Summit’s new Montessori Assistant Director found inspiration and parallels in the works of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and the Hallmarks by which they live and the teachings of Dr. Maria Montessori. Each is illustrated daily in the classrooms of our youngest students.
Two Summit brothers are using the business skills they’re perfecting at the Homan Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership to raise money for the mental health support of fellow classmates.
Preflight procedures, radio communications, airport operations, aviation safety, weather, cockpit management, and emergency procedures may sound like something taught in an elite flight school, but a handful of Upper School students are learning this and more in the new honors course Aircraft Systems and Performance.
The annual eighth grade trip to Washington, D.C. is more than a Summit tradition that dates back decades. It is the pinnacle of experiential learning. Seeds of curiosity are planted early and throughout classroom lessons and that curiosity blossoms over the fourday experience.
February 12, 2025 marked the 20th anniversary of the martyrdom of Sister Dorothy Stang, who believed in the power of stewardship and togetherness.
STATE CHAMPIONS! In the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s history, six schools have won the boys and girls soccer state titles in the same year. The Summit Country Day is the only school to do it multiple times. Our eight-page spread revisits their road to state, reflecting on the leadership of both teams and how they accomplished another winning season.
Kelley Schiess HEAD OF SCHOOL
Living The Hallmarks through the teachings of Maria Montessori
A
first-person perspective
by Anita Calo, Montessori Assistant Director – The Summit Country Day School
I was first introduced to the Hallmarks during a leadership orientation for my new role at The Summit at the beginning of this school year. Immediately, I was impressed at the similarities between the vision and values of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur with those of Dr. Maria Montessori. Like the Sisters, Dr. Montessori had a profound respect for God and His creation. Her life was lived in service to the elevation of humankind through education, peace, and respect. Her Catholic values inspired her to help those who were not valued in society, and her words often echo those of the Sisters.
Dr. Montessori developed her approach to education in the early 1900’s in Italy. Through careful observation and a scientific approach, she discovered that children possess an innate desire to learn and thrive in a prepared environment that supports their natural development.
The Montessori method was brought to The Summit in 1925 by a small group of Sisters who were trained in the method in Europe. Today, we in the Montessori Division continue the legacy of this work, seamlessly integrating the values and visions of The Sisters and Dr. Montessori. Our accomplished and highly trained faculty carry on this important work, creating an exceptional learning and growing environment for the students we serve. We aim to align our practices and goals with The Hallmarks in the work we do each day.
Hallmark 1: We proclaim our lives even more than our words that God is good.
Montessori believed in the innate goodness of the child, and that the wisdom of God is expressed through the developmental stages. She stated, “A sense of God exists in the heart of the child, and the child is the creator of the man he is to be.” Through these words, she demonstrates the alignment of the goodness of God with the goodness of the child.
Fr. Terry talking to the Montessori students during mass.
The heart of our work within the Montessori Division is rooted in the celebration of the goodness of God’s creation. This is particularly highlighted through the work of our beloved religion teacher, Peggy Nachtrab. Through her weekly Bible Stories, our students learn that they are loved by God just the way they are and are encouraged to see the wonder and joy in all creation.
Hallmark 2: We honor the dignity and sacredness of each person.
Dr. Montessori was one of the first women physicians in Italy. Much of her clinical work was done with the poor, especially children. It is widely reported that a caretaker at one of the clinics harshly reprimanded a child for playing with leftover crumbs on the floor. What Montessori observed, however, was not a misbehaving child. She saw the dignity of the child in that moment, recognizing not misbehavior, but an obvious lack of sensory stimulation. She wondered how that same child would thrive in an environment designed for the sole purpose of meeting the child’s developmental needs. It was this encounter that led Montessori to open the first Casa dei Bambini, translating to “House for Children.”
The respect for the child that Montessori modeled is evident in our classrooms today as our teachers ensure that the needs of each child are met through the materials in the environment, the lessons presented, and through natural daily interactions. Celebrations of world cultures and the many cultures represented among our Summit students and families strengthen the child’s appreciation for the dignity and sacredness of all.
Hallmark 3: We educate for and act on behalf of justice, peace, and care for all.
Montessori was an outspoken advocate on the topic of peace education, stating “Averting war is the work of politicians; establishing peace is the work of educators.” Peace education is a natural outcome of the Montessori environment and is intrinsic to the learning experience. Conditions are created for concentration, freedom within limits, conflict resolution, and collaboration among multi-age groups.
In each of our classrooms you will find a designated ‘peace corner’ which is an intentional space for conflict resolution and recovery, solitude, and quieting the mind and body. These areas are cozy spaces, designed with soft seating, sensory
Henry Vollmer ‘38 washing his dish after a meal.
Colleen Dapore ‘37 and Scotlyn (Scotty) Diamond ‘38 preparing the months of the year for birthday celebrations.
materials that encourage emotional regulation, and opportunities to quiet the body and mind. The peace corner allows the child to practice using healthy coping mechanisms for stressful situations and learn to manage them independently.
Hallmark 4: We commit ourselves to community service.
Each of our 14 Montessori classrooms is a thriving community of 3- to 6-year-old children who are provided daily with opportunities to care for each other as well as for the plants and animals in the environment. The upkeep of the classroom is shared by all the students through daily jobs such as straightening materials on shelves, collecting the recycling, and wiping tables. Individually, each student returns the material they have used to the shelf just in the way they found it so it will be ready for the next friend to use. Preparing a snack for a friend, arranging flowers in a vase, and greeting visitors who come to the door are all key lessons the children learn
to contribute to the beautification and functioning of the community.
Hallmark 5: We embrace the gift of diversity.
Through her observations of children, Montessori reflected, “The needs of humankind are universal. Our means of meeting them create the richness and diversity of the planet. The Montessori child should come to relish the texture of that diversity.”
Montessori believed that young children should study the similarities and differences between communities around the globe in order to build an early and growing awareness of our diverse, interconnected world. Through our cultural curriculum, our students begin by learning about the Universe and our planet, then begin the study of each of the seven continents, including the people, traditions, customs, and foods.
(L to R) Teddy Ulman, Jack Niver, Houston Harvey and Stevie Giordano ‘38 play the matching game.
Our approach fosters an environment that respects the uniqueness of each child while promoting a global perspective. Our classrooms incorporate materials reflecting diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, the exposure to which aids our students in developing an appreciation for diversity and a global perspective.
Hallmark 6: We create community among those with whom we work and serve.
Our Montessori faculty and staff are a highly trained and committed group of individuals who work together to serve the youngest of learners at The Summit. Montessori prescribed that “the attitude of the teacher should be at once positive, scientific and spiritual.” Our faculty work together in supporting each other in reaching those aims.
In her 1946 London Lectures, Montessori had this to say, “This is our responsibility, not to spoil the great laws of nature and the effort which is in each child. The teacher must be the servant of nature. The highest thing she can do is to serve. The best she can do is to be a perfect servant, to show respect and care, and be humble. Her plan must be to nurture life, which is a force, a force full of wisdom and power.”
Hallmark
7: We develop holistic learning communities that educate for life.
The Montessori approach is founded on Dr. Montessori’s belief that, “The education of even a small child, therefore, does not aim at preparing him for school, but for life.” Evidence confirms that brain development in early childhood sets the stage for all further growth, expansion, and development. Interactions with others and the environment significantly impact the child’s lifelong learning as the quality of experiences from birth to six literally shape the architecture of the brain.
We in the Montessori Division at The Summit are experts in child development and environmental design, giving our students the best possible foundation for their lifelong education. We take seriously our role in partnering with our families to ensure the best possible outcome from our students’ earliest experiences.
I find great joy and meaning in continuing the work of the Sisters who first brought Montessori to The Summit 100 years ago. The Hallmarks provide the framework, and the work of Dr. Montessori provides the method to further the heart of the mission of The Summiteducating leaders of character who will value and improve the world they inherit.
Abby Franzese ‘38 works with a map of the United States.
Henry Chen ‘38 observing with a magnifying glass.
In a Class of Her Own: Mary Humpert in her 47th year of teaching at The Summit
First published in the 2024 Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur Ohio Province Annual Report, November 2024.
If you were to describe the ideal teacher for young children, you might think of someone who loves to make her students feel valued and safe, one who is dedicated to their growth and learning, a person who has experience, patience and a sense of humor.
Those exact qualities accurately describe Mary Humpert, Montessori teacher at The Summit Country Day School. With deep roots in the vibrant Cincinnati Catholic community, Mrs. Humpert proudly claims a special connection to Summit and the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur.
When Summit was still a newer campus and an allgirls school staffed by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Mrs. Humpert’s grandmother, Antoinette Daly, graduated in the Class of 1916. In a similar way, Mrs. Humpert received her education through eighth grade from the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur at Cardinal Pacelli School.
“The Sisters were so good and nurturing and kind,” she says. “I can remember every name of every teacher I had there. Some of my best memories at Cardinal Pacelli are walking the halls with the Sisters and looking up to them, knowing I was in a good place.”
After she accepted a teaching job at Summit in 1978 and began growing her family, her four sons followed as Summit “lifers” -- graduates who have attended since at least first grade. The 2024-25 school year marks Mrs. Humpert’s 47th at Summit, where estimates place her impact at more than 1,000 children and hundreds of families. The Hallmarks of a Notre Dame de Namur Learning Community continue to guide her.
“St. Julie Billiart played a big part in making me who I am,” Mrs. Humpert says. “I still look to her as a model and inspiration. Even with the little guys, we teach how important it is to follow the Hallmarks that the Sisters taught us. I learned from the Sisters at Cardinal Pacelli to honor the dignity of each person and I have carried this with me and taught my children accordingly.
“The Sisters taught me how to teach.”
The Spirit of Sister Dorothy Stang Lives On
By Emily Fernback
S ister Dorothy Stang joined the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur (SNDdeN) at the age of 17 in 1948; she began her professional journey in 1956. By 1966, she became a missionary in Brazil, where she gained naturalized citizenship, and fought for the rights of the people and the environment.
To aid others living in poverty, Sister Dorothy Stang lived among them. Her voice became one of education and empowerment, providing understanding and solace to lowerclass farmers and overlooked, less powerful citizens. She also championed the protection of the rainforest against those who sought to exploit its resources and, in turn, its people.
The Gospel, particularly the Beatitudes, shows a call to live with purpose and integrity, inspiring meaningful change through faith and action. Her final words were read from Matthew 5:3: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Sister Dorothy Stang believed in the power of stewardship and togetherness. A non-violent advocate for change, she met her end on earth by assassination on February 12, 2005, at the age of 73. 20 years later in 2025, she is honored at a ceremony hosted by the Community of Sant’Egidio. She is the first American woman to be included in a memorial for modern martyrs in Rome.
The Summit hosted a Mass to honor Sister Dorothy Stang marking 20 years since her passing living the Hallmarks of Justice, Compassion and Courage. During his homily, Father Phil Seher spoke of attending a panel discussion of her and walked away with a feeling he described as hope. “It wasn’t that
in her martyrdom that she was buried, but in her words, planted to give life,” he said. “We are being invited to set aside malicious talk so that the Lord’s way will make as a well-watered garden.”
The Spirit of Sister Dorothy Stang Award is given to faculty members,
parish ministers, parishioners active in social justice ministry and graduating seniors.
Award winners include:
Kyle Lauckner ‘24 in 2024
Dr. Kat Sickinger in 2023
Samara Bill ‘22 in 2022
The beautiful Sr. Dorothy Stang memorial shines above freshmen students (L to R) Forrest Cloran, Molly Workman, Bennett Fager and Lily Ammer ‘28.
AVIATION
Johnathan Breazeale ‘25.
Learning to Fly: A Remarkable Aviation Initiative
By Tracy Law, Ph.D. ‘85
W hen a Sister of Notre Dame took the first students onto the roof for astronomy classes, the era of airplanes was still in the realm of fiction and fantasy. The Wright Brothers had yet to fly at Kitty Hawk. What would this 1890’s nun and the girls in her charge make of the newest addition to The Summit’s programming? While the sky is still the focus, this school year saw a handful of Upper Schoolers enrolled in the unique Honors Aircraft Systems and Performance course.
Parent of alumni, Steve Carrington remembers well the birth of the class; “looking back, it’s no surprise that the seed was planted on a nice spring day when I offered to take Coach Smith and his family flying. We had a great time flying out of I69, Clermont County Airport on a smooth and clear day. I think we cycled all of his kids through the experience of controlling the airplane.”
Working with Steve and Diane Carrington, as well as Summit alum and parent Mercer Reynolds ’95, Mr. Smith navigated through the logistics of starting the class. As he describes it, “this course is foundational for both crewed and uncrewed aviation. It will prepare students to take either Federal Aviation
Administration tests: the Private Pilot Knowledge Test or the Part 107 Remote Pilot Knowledge Test. Topics include preflight procedures, airspace, radio communications, aviation terminology, regulations, airport operations, aviation safety, weather, cockpit management, and emergency procedures.” Perhaps more importantly, it aligns with the Notre Dame values of self-directed learning, critical thinking, creative problem solving, leadership, and holistic learning. While we are not the only area high school to offer a flight program, The Summit is one of select few.
“Being in the first group of this new class has been a really exciting experience,” says junior Connor Schaaf, “While the course content is super interesting, my favorite part is the presentations from guests throughout the flight industry. The excitement I see in these guests to be able to teach young people like us about the many opportunities in the flight industry has been so encouraging.”
Senior David Ray adds, “I absolutely love the course. I look forward to it every day I have the class. I have gained a higher level of respect for the pilots of commercial aircraft as well as a different perspective on our world and travel. The experience I have had in
(L to R) Johnathan Breazeale ‘25, Colin Chimento ‘25, Callie Fox ‘26 and Alex Bajorek ‘26 observing flight data at CVG airport.
this class up until this point is different from any other class because of how real it truly is.”
“I joined the aviation program here at The Summit because I wanted to take advantage of an opportunity you only have once in a lifetime. This class has been one of the most enlightening experiences I have ever had,” maintains junior Alexis Lange. “Not only have I gained more respect for those in the aviation industry, but it has also opened my eyes to the many career opportunities that are present. I have learned what I need to know to take the private pilot’s test, but I now have knowledge of weather, airport layouts, and an understanding of the engineering behind why planes can fly. This class allows you not only to become a pilot, but also provides an introduction to aviation engineering, meteorology, and work within an airport.”
Looking at how the course has developed, Steve Carrington observes, “I think Coach Smith’s idea to start an aviation class is both timely and exactly the type of class that will thrive in a school like Summit. It combines all attributes of STEM education, has a broad national support through organizations like AOPA and EAA, appeals to parents who are looking for classes that develop confidence and character, and, most importantly is broadly appealing to students who get to experience a class that is unique, academically challenging, leverages their technological skills, and requires them to both think and act like adults in real world applications and situations. The class exposes the students to all attributes of aviation and may be a portal to future career choices: Engineering, Finance, Weather science, Piloting, Airport operations, etc.”
“I admit, when I first saw the Simulation lab, I was blown away. It was equipped with four simulators including cockpit setups and displays, advanced software and equipment and the ability to link the simulators for advanced training and gaming. After some consideration and discussions with the local flight school, the decision was made to convert the simulators into Trainer Simulators, mimicking the exact training aids being used by flight schools in Ohio to train adult, professional pilots. The more the students play around with the sims, the more they’ll be ready to experience the real-life training of piloting an aircraft.”
Another key element to the course’s success is the enthusiasm of guest speakers. As senior Johnathan Breazeale explains, “The most valuable aspect of the course for me has been the connections made through the course. Mr. Smith has provided so many opportunities to get involved, which range from flying in a plane at Sporty’s, listening to a former Air Force pilot, and visiting CVG airport to tour their air traffic control. I am a person who wants to pursue professional flight, but even if I did not want to be a pilot, I would still be convinced that the aviation industry is right for me because of the abundance of opportunities made readily available.”
Alex Bajorek ‘26 reviewing flight paths on a large map inside the CVG flight operations.
An aviation student using one of the flight simulators during class at The Summit.
“Summit Country Day School’s newly formed pilot program is a remarkable initiative that sets students on a clear path toward an exciting aviation career. I was expecting some desktop simulators and was surprised by the number and quality of the systems. The program’s state-of-the-art flight simulators, equipped with interchangeable controls to replicate various aircraft types, provide an unparalleled hands-on learning experience. The multi-screen displays deliver an impressive graphical presentation, immersing students in realistic flight scenarios that foster skill development and confidence. With the aviation industry facing a projected mandatory retirement of 17,000 pilots from major carriers by the end of the decade, this program offers a timely and critical opportunity for aspiring pilots to gain a competitive edge. As a retired military and commercial pilot, I can attest that early exposure to aviation through such an advanced program not only sparks passion but also provides invaluable experience for students looking to take to the skies professionally. “
– Doug Ralph, pilot & parent of Chris ’19 and Kendall ‘23
Summit aviation students take a field trip to observe real-time flight operations and technology firsthand at CVG Airport.
Experiential Learning at Its Finest: The Annual Eighth-Grade Trip to Washington, D.C.
By Tina Tedesco
Each fall, eighth graders at The Summit Country Day School embark on a much-anticipated journey to Washington, D.C., a trip that goes far beyond sightseeing—it’s an immersive experience that brings classroom lessons to life. After weeks of preparation, students board charter buses for a four-day adventure packed with historical exploration, cultural enrichment and unforgettable moments.
The trip isn’t just a vacation from the typical school day; it’s a carefully crafted educational experience that ties together multiple disciplines, making it the ultimate example of experiential learning. Teachers strategically plan the students’ coursework to enhance their
understanding and appreciation of the places they’ll visit in the nation’s capital.
From the moment they leave Cincinnati, the eighth graders are set to encounter a world of history. The itinerary is designed to engage students in handson learning, ensuring that they not only read about significant events but also experience them firsthand. For instance, students delve into the haunting realities of the Holocaust through Elie Wiesel’s Night in Brendan McEachern’s English Language Arts class. Then, they visit the National Holocaust Museum, walking through exhibits that bear witness to the Holocaust through realworld artifacts.
In Mike DiPaola’s science class, students explore the exciting and competitive history of the Space Race, learning about the Sputnik satellite, the Apollo missions and the space shuttle program. Their trip to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum brings this knowledge to life, as they stand before capsules from the Apollo, Gemini and Mercury programs and even engage in a scavenger hunt to locate the famous SCE to Aux switch that saved Apollo 12.
The arts aren’t left out either. Laurie Huff’s religion class explores the rich gothic architecture of the Washington National Cathedral by crafting their own gargoyles and grotesques from playdough. When they arrive at the cathedral, students are in awe, standing beneath these towering figures and reflecting on the messages of equality and justice depicted in the stained-glass windows. Student Anne Misrach recalled, “the light was shining through the stained-glass windows so there was color everywhere.”
Each of these experiences is designed to help students make meaningful connections between their classroom studies and the world around them, creating memories and insights that will last a lifetime. As Mr. DiPaola notes, the trip is an opportunity to “bring what we do in the classroom alive,” and the impact is profound.
A Multi-Dimensional Experience
The trip isn’t just about academics; it’s also an opportunity for personal growth. Students bond with one another during long bus rides, forging friendships that extend beyond the classroom. They learn to interact with people from other schools and engage with adults, practicing social skills and manners along the way.
The trip also offers artistic and spiritual enrichment. The beauty of the architecture and stained glass at the Washington National Cathedral inspires reflection, while the reverence shown at the many museums and memorials allows students to connect with the solemnity of the nation’s history.
The physical aspect of the trip is also notable. Between walking through the sprawling National Mall and touring multiple monuments and memorials, students get plenty of exercise while soaking in American history. The physical activity, combined with the rich cultural exposure, makes for an enriching and wellrounded experience.
A Journey Through History
Before even arriving in D.C., the students stop in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where they walk the
During a night walk, a group of students stops to pose with the Washington Monument shining brightly in the distance.
hallowed ground of the Civil War battlefield, gaining a deeper understanding of one of the most pivotal moments in American history. It’s here that Kevin Bissmeyer, who teaches social studies, lays the groundwork for the historical exploration they’ll soon encounter in D.C. By studying the architectural styles, monuments and places of significance, students gain a greater appreciation for the country’s rich heritage.
Mr. Bissmeyer notes that different students connect with different aspects of the trip. While some are drawn to military sites like Arlington National Cemetery and The Pentagon, others find themselves fascinated by cultural institutions like the National Museum of African American History or the Air and Space Museum. “There really is something for everyone to enjoy,” he says.
While Lexy Beyerbach looked forward to seeing the Washington Monument “and the fact that people built it by hand centuries ago,” the trip also leaves some students wanting more. Marguerite Jackson said she was “inspired to learn more about Abraham Lincoln and his life after our visit and seeing his monument” during their walking tour. Lexy also wants to go back and see “the whole battlefield at Gettysburg.”
More Than Just a Trip
What sets this trip apart is the way it connects to the lessons students have been learning in class. Whether studying the Holocaust in Mr. McEachern’s English class, the space program with Mr. DiPaola, or the architecture and symbolism of the National Cathedral in Miss Huff’s religion class, students are well-prepared to make the most of their experiences. In the words of Miss Huff, the trip helps students “experience first-hand the essence of the spiritual found in the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur’s seven hallmarks” and the meaning of community-building.
The eighth-grade trip to Washington, D.C. is a perfect blend of academic, social, artistic, spiritual and physical learning that amplifies the lessons taught in the classroom. It’s a tradition that enhances The Summit experience and leaves a lasting impact on every student lucky enough to participate.
“D.C. was incredibly fun,” said Edward Neyra. “We had so much freedom... I recommend this trip to everyone.”
The International Spy Museum, which houses a six-foot section of the Berlin Tunnel, captivated students. The inscription “Looking, Listening, Sensing” highlighted the tunnel’s role in surveillance activities during the Cold War.
A Detailed Itinerary
The 2024 itinerary for the trip highlights the variety of educational experiences:
Day 1
The journey begins with a stop in Gettysburg, PA, to explore the Civil War battlegrounds.
Day 2
The group visits Arlington National Cemetery, the Iwo Jima Marine Memorial and the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, before continuing to the Washington Monument, the Holocaust Museum and the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. The evening ends with a nighttime walk to visit several memorials, including the Lincoln, Vietnam, Korea and World War II Memorials.
Day 3
Students tour Capitol Hill and the Library of Congress, attend Mass at the National Cathedral, visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture and conclude the day with a show at the Kennedy Center.
Day 4
Before heading home, students enjoy a walking tour of the Jefferson, FDR, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorials, a photo op outside the White House and a visit to the International Spy Museum.
Students pose for a photo op at a popular location – the steps of the U.S. Capitol Building.
Students listen intently to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while visiting his memorial on a crystal-clear day in Washington, D.C.
Student Run Knights Coffee Cart Gives Back
By Emily Fernback
D
uring the 2023-24 school year, brothers Ethan Lam ‘24 and Andrew Lam ‘27 began an on-campus coffee shop in the Upper School. Java Junction, open twice a week in the third-floor lounge, donated all proceeds outside of expenses to help Key Club’s fundraising efforts. Those efforts went toward UpSpring, a local organization that works to empower children experiencing homelessness in the Greater Cincinnati Area through education and enrichment.
Leading into the 2024-25 school year, brothers Carlo ‘25 and Rocco ‘27 Quintero opened Knights Coffee Cart on October 4, with the hope of giving students something to look forward to in the mornings. Coffee and donuts are available for purchase in the second-floor lounge.
To keep the cafe running, they have a standing meeting on Mondays to discuss what needs to be done for the upcoming week. Discussions are had about current inventory, orders necessary for the week ahead and marketing strategies. The brothers brainstorm and record ideas that they may want to implement in the future to improve the cafe for their classmates.
Outside of the internal involvement, they also communicate weekly with their local suppliers. “We look at this coffee cart as an opportunity to apply the business skills we’ve learned through past businesses, internships and from the entrepreneurship classes at Summit,” Carlo says.
Carlo is part of the Homan Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, a signature program that launched at The Summit in 2021. Led by Bob Jablonski, the curriculum offers motivated students an advantage as they pursue a passion for business in college and beyond. In his summer
internship with a McDonald’s franchise management group, Carlo gained a unique perspective on the complexities of running a successful business.
Like his brother, Rocco took part in a business-oriented team along with leader Emmett Hood ‘27, Hayden Vanderstelt ‘27, Carter Lund ‘27, Jack Reynolds ‘27, Evan Bajorek ‘27 and Cole Reinhard ‘27 called Summit Knights Investors. Their team, guided by Summit dad Chris Hood, is a Semifinalist in the 2024-2025 Wharton Global High School Investment Competition, a challenge where high school teams compete using an online stock market simulator to develop
investment strategies, analyze companies and build teamwork and communication skills.
“We enjoy the hands-on experience of running a business,” Carlo explains. “It is amazing to see the Summit community supporting us during this journey and wanting us to succeed.”
All profits of Knights Coffee Cart go to The Summit’s Hope Squad. The Hope Squad’s mission is to foster mental health awareness and suicide prevention. They share: “We chose to donate to a Summit organization because we wanted to give back to The Summit community.”
Carlo ‘25 and Rocco Quintero ‘27 help fuel students and staff for the day with their Knights Coffee Cart putting their entrepreneurial skills to work.
Student Spotlight
Oluwatofunmi (Tofunmi)
Ajayi ‘30 heads to the National Geography Bee Championships in Orlando after winning the Geography Bee Regional Championship in Columbus. Tofunmi also qualified for the International Championships in Paris next summer.
Gwen Suder ‘31 became the Karate AAU 11-yearold intermediate National Champion for Kobudo weapons at the AAU Nationals in Florida, defeating nine other national qualifiers in her age group. The AAU, which sets standards in amateur sports and prepares athletes for the Olympics, focuses on providing programs for participants of all ages. Gwen’s victory reflects her dedication and hard work, bringing pride to The Summit community and setting a high standard for young martial artists.
Summit students were published in the Young Writers USA Anthologies: Giulia Rassi ‘30 and Teagan Wood ‘30’s poems will be featured in an upcoming anthology.
The Summit Knights Investors team became semifinalists in the Wharton Global High School Investment Competition, competing against 1,800 teams from 66 countries. Team members include (L to R) Cole Reinhard ‘27, Jack Reynolds ‘27, Rocco Quintero ‘27, Emmett Hood ‘27, Carter Lund ‘27, Evan Bajorek ‘27 and Hayden Vanderstelt ‘27
Summit students participated in the Women in Medicine event at Christ Hospital alongside students from various states, gaining hands-on experience with medical equipment. Participants included Zezzie Imperial ‘27, Olivia de Lacy ‘27, Natalie Neyra ‘27, Abigayle Penote ‘27, Ella Reineck ‘27 and Piper Cutforth ‘27
Grace Gray ‘27 secured her spot at the state history day competition with her paper, The Giants of The Toxic Asbestos Industry. This year’s National History Day theme was Rights and Responsibilities in History.
Two Summit students, Ella Cary ‘25 (left) and Megan Marburger ‘25, explored health careers through the TAP MD Summer Academy at various medical institutions across the region.
The Summit Knights Robotics Team earned 2nd place in the prestigious Inspire Awards, which recognizes
excellence in design, teamwork and outreach. They also qualified for the Ohio FTC State Championship.
Six Summit artists had their work featured in the Ohio Art Education Association’s Youth Art Month Exhibition at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus. The exhibition celebrated outstanding student artwork and highlighted the importance of art education in Ohio’s K-12 schools. Summit students selected for the exhibition include Benjamin Woods ‘35, Julia Tranter ‘34, Russell Roth ‘31, Natalie Campbell ‘29, Dylan Gonyo ‘29, and Caroline Reynolds ‘29. Their exceptional pieces were recognized for their creativity and talent, showcasing their dedication to the arts and Summit’s pillars.
Hana Conte ‘26 (left) and Sophia Suwiryo ‘27 were selected as semifinalists in the prestigious Overture Awards, the largest solo arts competition in the Greater Cincinnati area. Hana won for theatre and Sophia for piano. The competition encourages arts education and fosters young artists’ growth.
Sophia Suwiryo ‘27 placed second in the U1000 Premier (K-12) section at the 2025 Ohio All-Girls State Championship and is ranked among the top 50 female chess players in Ohio.
The Summit Theater Department was recognized for its participation in the Theatre Student Mentor Resource Team (SMRT) Program. School-Level.
Summit Middle School students qualified and performed in the Cincinnati Catholic Honor Band. Participants included (L to R – back row) Charlie Williams ’30, Henry Knepfle ‘31, Sophie Pressey ‘31, Cléa Sinno ‘30, Elise Goebel ‘30, Ruby Hayes ‘31, (L to R – front row) Bob Browning, Matti Hofmann ‘31, Giulia Rassi ‘30, Emma Rinehart ‘30 and Kevin Engle. Not pictured: Robert Montgomery IV ‘30 and Ari Symonds ‘29
Six seventh graders selected to represent The Summit during the Jacob G. Schmidlapp Bystander to Upstander Youth Leadership Day at The Holocaust and Humanity Center. (L to R) Evelyn Paulsen ‘30, Olivia Elfenbein ‘30, Brie Mudzinganyama ‘30, Rachel Burkart ‘30, Annabelle Huttenbauer ‘30 and Brenna Neyer ‘30. They joined 140 students from 22 schools in leadership sessions and created action plans for positive change.
Summit seventh graders raised thousands of dollars for local nonprofits through the Magnified Giving program:
Beckham Carrasquillo ‘29 ($1,000 for Lucky Tales)
Van Devendorf ‘29 ($307 for Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly)
Nikhil Jain ‘29 ($1,307 for CISE)
Olivia Miele ‘29 ($1,000 for The Cure Starts Now)
Olivia Miele ‘29 spent part of her summer at Tufts University’s Adventures in Veterinary Medicine Camp in Grafton, MA on Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine’s campus getting hands-on experiences in ultrasounds, animal CPR, checking the vitals of chickens, horses and sheep, wound care and sutures and more.
Spotlight lists are compiled by content specialist, Xavier Mellon.
Six Summit seniors spent their summer conducting research with tristate medical centers and universities through The Summit’s Schiff Family Science Research Institute. Johnathan Breazeale ‘25 worked on variable star classification with Ohio State University. Ben Dobelhoff ‘25 researched oncology counseling with TriHealth. Lilly Sievering ‘25 researched NK cells at Cincinnati Children’s. Daisy Doran ‘25 studied ovarian hormones in epilepsy at Cincinnati Children’s, while Megan Marburger ‘25 explored fetal cerebellar hemorrhages. Sophia Nery ‘25 assisted with anxiety patient assessments at the University of Cincinnati. The Schiff Family Science Research Institute offers Summit high school students real-world research experience with professional mentors, helping them develop technical skills and communication expertise. Upon completing their summer research, students wrote journal articles and ultimately presented their research during the Science Research Institute Colloquium held in January.
Seniors (L to R) Carlo Quintero ‘25, Ava Kulesza ‘25 and Owen McNeil ‘25 had transformative summer internships through the Homan Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, gaining valuable real-world experience. Ava interned at Cold Jet, learning about business operations in the industrial sector. Owen interned at Standard Textile, gaining insights into business strategy and operations. Carlo worked with a McDonald’s franchise group, learning about managing a fast-food business. These internships provided each student with hands-on experience, helping them develop critical skills and insights into the business world.
Dr. Kirstin McEachern named Upper School Director
After a thorough national search, in February Head of School Kelley Schiess proudly announced Dr. Kirstin McEachern as the permanent Upper School Director.
“Dr. McEachern’s leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to the values of The Summit distinguish her as the leader our school needs now. Her deep institutional knowledge, paired with a forward-thinking approach, ensures that the Upper School will continue to thrive under her leadership.” Mrs. Schiess added, “At the heart of her educational philosophy is a commitment to innovative teaching and fostering meaningful relationships where students are empowered to reach their highest potential.”
In her tenure at The Summit, Dr. McEachern has built strong relationships with students,
faculty, and parents, earning widespread recognition for her ability to connect and collaborate. Her vision and leadership continue to make a positive and lasting impact on the school community.
“I look forward to continuing to amplify our students’ voices as they explore their passions and engage in experiences that challenge and inspire them while uplifting and empowering the Upper School staff and faculty,” said Dr. McEachern. “I firmly believe in the mission of The Summit and its reputation as a premiere educational institution in Cincinnati. The student experience at The Summit is unmatched and we will continue to build upon our traditions of academic excellence, leadership and character.”
Dr. McEachern holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Loyola Marymount University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston College. With more than 14 years of teaching experience across elementary, middle, and high school levels, she has also taught at the collegiate level in writing and pedagogy. Dr. McEachern has contributed significantly to national conversations on education, presenting at conferences and publishing in academic journals. She has worked collaboratively with Summit leadership teams on initiatives such as the Leaders of Character Framework and the school’s current strategic plan.
“Dr. McEachern’s leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to the values of The Summit distinguish her as the leader our school needs now. Her deep institutional knowledge, paired with a forwardthinking approach, ensures that the Upper School will continue to thrive under her leadership.”
– Head of School, Kelley Schiess
Faculty Spotlight
Sam England: creative opportunities through unique partnerships
Summit Art teacher Sam England continues to bring exciting creative opportunities to students through a partnership with Duck Tape and the Art Academy of Cincinnati. This year marks the fifth sculpture created for the Duck Tape Corporation, with The Summit being the only school to participate in four out of the five years. England’s leadership in this collaboration provides students with hands-on experience in largescale sculpture and innovative materials. In addition to the Duck Tape project, The Summit remains the only school to contribute community artwork for the Cincinnati Ballet. Through these partnerships, England encourages artistic growth while allowing students to engage with the broader arts community. These experiences allow young artists to showcase their talents in meaningful and impactful ways beyond the classroom.
Emily Boehmler: Summit Intervention Specialist
Summit celebrates the work of Intervention Specialist Emily Boehmler, who continues to lead efforts in Montessori Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), ensuring students develop essential skills for emotional well-being and personal growth. She is
a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with more than 14 years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis, with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master of Education (University of Cincinnati). This year, she is focusing on teaching young students important social skills, such as greeting others, resolving conflicts, and showing respect. These lessons help children build strong interpersonal relationships and create a positive, supportive classroom environment. The Summit Montessori School gives children the opportunity to learn from their peers, engage in meaningful open-ended play, and develop a solid foundation in academic and social-emotional learning that serves them well when they move on to Lower School starting in Grade 1.
Monica
(Haas) Desch ’90: embracing the traditions of Día de los Muertos
This fall, Summit Spanish teacher Monica (Haas) Desch ’90 embraced the cultural traditions of Día de los Muertos by staying with a Mexican family and participating in the multi-day celebration. Her
experience brought the lessons of her classroom to life as she walked through Malinalco, visiting homes that had lost a loved one in the past year. She joined the community in offering candles, hearing stories of the departed, and receiving remembrances of those being honored. Monica also visited cemeteries, where graves were decorated with flowers, food, and music played as families celebrated the lives of their loved ones. She took part in the tradition of building an ofrenda (altar), decorating it with meaningful items to honor those who had passed. In addition to these cultural experiences, she explored significant sites like Our Lady of Guadalupe and Teotihuacán, which was beneficial in deepening her connection to Mexican history and tradition. A highlight of her trip was being fully immersed in a Spanish-speaking environment, where she engaged with locals, sampled traditional foods from markets, and even tried live bugs. Monica’s firsthand experience has allowed her to bring a more personal perspective to her Spanish classes, offering students an authentic glimpse into the customs and traditions they study.
Martin Wells: promoting particle physics in high schools
Summit science teacher, Martin Wells, attended the Quarknet Lead Teacher Institute in May 2024, an event that brought together educators from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico to promote particle physics in high schools. The conference was held at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in Lead, South Dakota, and gathered just 10 teachers, offering a unique opportunity for learning and collaboration.
During the event, Wells and his colleagues discussed the challenges of leading their local Quarknet centers and explored different strategies to increase participation among teachers in their various regions. The conference
also included a tour of the research labs, which are located 4,850 feet underground, providing an up-close look at the innovative work being done in the field of particle physics.
Lynette Grypp: showcasing rich learning experiences in mathematics
Summit math Lynette Grypp recently presented at two prestigious national conferences, showcasing her expertise in rich learning experiences in mathematics.
In September, Grypp presented at the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Annual Conference in Chicago. Her session, titled “Networking with Local Experts to Develop Rich Math Experiences,” emphasized the value of connecting students with local professionals to improve their math education. Later in November, she presented again at the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS) Conference in St. Louis, continuing the conversation on how to create meaningful learning opportunities for students.
Grypp attended both conferences alongside her Summit colleagues— Lisa Baker (math teacher) at NCTM, and Martha Rich (religion teacher) and Kim Perlman (MS Director) at ISACS. These presentations reflect Grypp’s dedication to continually improving her craft and contributing to academic excellence at The Summit.
Bonnie Pang: four student essays selected for publication
Under Chinese Teacher Bonnie Pang’s guidance, four Summit students Kwadwo Karikari ‘25, Annabelle Schlotman ‘25, Sophia Suwiryo ‘27, and Sophia Lei’s ‘30 essays were selected by Prof. Licheng Gu from Northwestern University to publish in the book titled West Meets East: 100 Essays from Middle and High School Students in the USA. This May, the book will be published by Beijing Language and Culture University
Press. Kwadwo wrote a short story about meeting the ancient Chinese poet Li Bai, Annabelle wrote about her childhood Chinese friend and her deep appreciation of traditional Chinese painting. Sophia Suwiryo wrote about her hobbies, and Sophia Lei wrote a short story about traveling to China on a dragon’s back. Prof. Gu highly regarded the achievements and creativity of the Summit students.
Carrie Barnett: making an impact in the world of art
Art teacher Carrie Barnett continues to make an impact on the national stage, currently serving as Vice President of the National Art Education Association’s (NAEA) Western Region and as Lead Vice President on the NAEA Board of Directors. In her role, she is also a member of the Executive Finance Committee, contributing to the organization’s financial oversight and strategic planning. At the National Art Education Association Conference in March, Carrie will preside over the National Delegates Assembly, attend the Executive Finance Committee Meeting, and participate in two National Board Meetings. Additionally, she will oversee the Western Region Business Meeting and Award Ceremony and collaborate with three other vice presidents to lead a workshop for regional leaders from across the country. Her dedication to advancing art education and supporting educators across the country reflects her leadership and passion for the arts.
Annual Hallmarks Retreat
The Mission Integration Office with the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Ohio Province hosted its yearly Hallmarks Retreat in March and Summit faculty: Kristin (Hausladen) Baker ‘96 - Fourth Grade, Brycen Gwyn – Religion & Social Studies and Martha Rich – Religion Teacher voiced their commitments to bringing the Hallmarks back to school at the close of the retreat. Thank you to Kristin, Brycen and Martha for representing The Summit.
Raymond Ulrich: certified in Catholic School Management
Raymond Ulrich, Senior Director of Operations at The Summit, successfully completed a year-long program at Villanova University, earning a Catholic School Management diploma/ certificate. This program focuses on the key aspects of managing and leading Catholic schools and is designed to provide educational leaders with the tools and strategies to improve school operations and educational outcomes.
He gained valuable insights in the program, including financial management, strategic planning, and community engagement, all of which will improve his ability to support The Summit’s hallmarks, mission, and growth.
Raymond’s completion of this program demonstrates his commitment to professional development and dedication to creating a positive and inclusive environment for students and staff at The Summit.
Professional Development emphasizes learning by building practical and transferable skills
By Emily Fernback
P rofessional Development refers to an educational process that emphasizes learning more about a specific career field by building practical and transferable skills. The Summit offers Professional Development opportunities to all divisions.
This school year, Grace Brown was introduced to our Lower and Middle Schools as an Instructional Design Coach from Forward Edge. A former high school English teacher, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. She has mainly been assisting with the transition to Google and helping faculty understand how the student Chromebooks can be utilized to support learning, but she has also shown teachers tools like Canva, MagicSchool and WeVideo. Brown has been on hand on Mondays and Thursdays to assist teachers with advancing technological applications in the classroom. “I’ve seen teachers across divisions fully embrace the changes being made, and I’ve seen how engaged students are with their learning,” she shares.
The Lower and Middle Schools were presented with a relatively large change: switching their platforms from Microsoft to Google with 1:1 Chromebooks. Now that every student in grades 1-8 has their own schoolprovided assigned Chromebook, Grace is working directly with teachers to see how best these tools can support their teaching practices.
Throughout these divisions, Grace has provided Professional Development to faculty members since the beginning of the school year. In her one-on-one meetings with teachers, they are able to discuss their specific instruction goals, and which tools would be most successful in reaching them. “The teachers who have worked with me have a drive to keep enhancing their teaching practice,” she says. “They want to know what tools are out there, how they can support students’ learning styles and how to appropriately balance this new wave of technology.”
Seventh grade teacher Joy Parker has been using Google Classroom in both her science and health courses, asked for support in transforming a lab
Instructional Design Coach Grace Brown with third graders in Allison Finkleman’s classroom.
assignment from a hard copy to a digital activity. There, students were able to engage in a different way, using their Chromebook’s apps to draw diagrams of ionic bonds.
In the third grade, Allison Finkleman’s students have made several podcasts as a reflection of their research and learning. To better leverage these new tools, she sought guidance from Grace on using Screencast and video editing platform WeVideo. This brought a new level of engagement from the students as they explored more of what the software can do.
At the beginning of the year, Upper School teacher Lynette Grypp discussed with Grace a project for her students where they were asked to find ways that math is used in the real world. Her students interviewed community members and submitted video projects which were then edited into a single project. Through this, Lynette needed to learn new skills and her students had to embrace flexibility and creativity. “The teachers want to provide their students with a
rich, engaging learning experience that meets the high expectations set by the Summit,” Grace says.
Along with direct Professional Development, Grace created a program advertised in the Lower and Middle School bathrooms. This poster, aptly named “Learning on the Loo,” is updated every month with quick tech tips. Each month offers incentive for teachers to apply newly learned skills in a unique way. A similar initiative was provided to the Upper School to introduce teachers to Canva and its many applications.
“The support from the administration is extremely helpful in implementing changes,” Grace says. “Without support from division directors, I wouldn’t have the time to reach the teachers. They recognize how important it is for their faculty to have this support- which is unique since not all schools have an Instructional Coach! They believe in their teachers, and they want their faculty to have access to the tools and support necessary to excel at their craft.”
Summit leadership participates in annual People of Color Conference
Cliff Pope (Assistant Upper School Director), Greg Dennis (Director of Athletics) and Cary Daniel ‘93 (Middle School Physical Education Teacher) proudly represented The Summit at the 2024 People of Color Conference (POCC), sponsored by NAIS. It took place in Denver, Colorado, this past winter, bringing together more than 8,000 delegates from independent schools across the country. From the opening ceremony, which honored the indigenous peoples of Colorado—the Cheyenne, Arapaho, Ute, and Apache—to the final moments before departure, the conference once again proved to be one of the most impactful professional development opportunities offered by NAIS.
Among the thousands of educators in attendance was Cliff Pope, who found immense value in the chance to collaborate with fellow professionals who have shared similar experiences as educators of color at predominantly white institutions. The conference featured a dynamic mix of speakers, presenters, and workshops, covering topics such as “The Indigenous People of Colorado,” “Exclusionary Ideologies of 2024,” “What It Means to Belong,” “The Risk Involved as a DEI Practitioner,” “Equity in the Disciplinary Process,” and “How to Develop More Administrators of Color.”
In addition to the professional development sessions for educators, POCC also hosted the Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC), a parallel event designed for students from NAIS independent schools.
Color Conference in Colorado.
At SDLC, students engaged in discussions on topics such as tolerance, dignity, acceptance, social justice, and social responsibility, providing them with valuable opportunities to deepen their understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Reflecting on the experience, Cliff described POCC as an unparalleled opportunity for personal and professional growth. With over three decades in Catholic education, he noted that no other professional development experience has compared to the depth and impact of this conference.
Cliff Pope, Greg Dennis and Carey Daniel ‘93 proudly represented The Summit at the 2024 People of
2024 OHIO STATE
STATE CHAMPIONS
By Brendan Connelly, High School Sports Reporter, Cincinnati Enquirer
I n math, physics or chemistry classes, teachers often give their students a problem to solve, making them show their work to prove how they got from Point A to Point B.
In the classroom and in everyday life, there are often multiple routes one can take to go about reaching a solution.
The Summit Country Day soccer teams learned that lesson over the course of three months. Both squads entered the season with the goal of hoisting the state championship trophy. Their roads to Columbus were very different, but like the importance of group work in the classroom, they were there for each other every step of the way.
The boys opened the season with losses to Little Miami, Indian Hill and Springboro. They didn’t score a goal in the first week of the season. It was their worst start since 2020.
“I heard a lot of people telling us that this was not going to be a good season because of that. I never really took any of that to heart. I knew the talent we had and that we just had to work towards becoming the team that we became in the end,” David Ray said.
The 0-3 start came with a few bullet points. Brenden Hamilton, Clemente Volk and Hayden Kintner each missed time in the first two weeks. Six different freshmen saw their first varsity action. It seemed like destiny that Sam Viltro scored the first goal of the season in a 5-4 league win over Roger Bacon.
Meanwhile, the girls team was flying high to start the season. They won their first five games, had a 12-1 goal differential and a 20-game unbeaten streak dating back to September 21, 2023.
Then came a game against Penn Charter on September 8. The Silver Knights admitted they took the Quakers for granted after beating them 4-1 in 2022 and 3-0 in 2023. A 2-1 loss ended up as the only blemish on the Silver Knights’ schedule, but it also provided a valuable lesson.
“We kind of came into that game a little bit light and not thinking that we were just going to blow away that win, and we didn’t. That was kind of an eye opener, like we have to take every game super seriously,” Mia Stevens said.
Coming into the season, they knew that all but five teams would end the year with a loss. The 2023 state
championship wasn’t enough for them. They wanted another trophy; anything short of that would have been a letdown.
The back line was a rotating cast in 2023. This year, it added a new yet stabilizing member in freshman Alex Gardner. Her instant connection with Bree Reder at center back helped the Silver Knights shut out 18 opponents and allow just eight goals all season. She also had eight goals and two assists. During head coach Mike Fee’s tenure, a persistent reciprocal relationship has formed where the underclassmen don’t want to disappoint the upperclassmen, while the juniors and seniors know that the younger players are the future of the program.
“I think we’ll see it again next year as we lose a couple seniors, we’ll have others stepping up in roles that are really, really important. The influence it will have on the younger players, hopefully will be the next generation of players that are going to make an impact for us,” Fee said.
Emma Gibson, Linde Harris, Cameron Lorentz and Abigayle Penote played in every game as freshmen last year. Jordyn Pez had seven goals and four assists in 2017. Colleen McIlvenna had 10 goals and nine assists as a freshman in 2015. Historically, this team has been at its best when players in all four classes contribute, but especially the freshmen and sophomores.
“Everyone wants to be part of a winning team. I think for a lot of people who come in at the start of the season, they’ll be able to see, ‘Oh, they went back-toback. I also want to somehow contribute on the field or off the field.’ Just having that mindset, it makes a lot of people want to work harder,” Maddie Mescher said.
The boys also lost to Penn Charter by an identical 2-1 final. It was their final defeat of the season but certainly not their final test. The Silver Knights played one of the toughest schedules of any Division V team. They faced six Division I teams. Indian Hill went on to win the Division III state championship in undefeated fashion.
“Our goal is always to get to November and one of the best ways to do that is to establish a mentality that prepares you for what is to come in the postseason. When we play against the teams that we play in the regular season, we feel like when we get to the
Page 28 (L to R) below group photo: Hayden Kitner ‘25, Abigayle Penote ‘27, Elijah Warner ‘27.
Page 29 (L to R) below group photo: Cammy Lorentz ‘27, Austin Fry ‘27, Mia Stevens ‘26.
Page 30: Bree Reder ‘26, David Ray ‘25, Clemente Volk ‘26.
Page 31: Boy’s Coach Scott Sievering, Maddie Mescher ‘25 playing at Case Western University in the Fall, Girl’s Coach Mike Fee.
postseason, there’s nothing that we haven’t seen or that we won’t be prepared for,” Scott Sievering said.
Not afraid of the team on the opposite bench, the boys finished the year on a 15-game unbeaten streak. Over the course of the season, sophomore Austin Fry led the team with 12 goals while Kintner, a senior, logged the most assists (8). In 2023, the girls team didn’t label any players by their grade level. The boys team followed their lead this season and it paid off in a big way.
That’s one secret ingredient to a state championship team, not relying on one player or a core group but having different teammates step up and not be afraid to provide those winning moments in every game.
The other key ingredient was toughness. Kintner required 17 stitches around his left eye after going up for a header in the preseason. He returned to play in the first regular season game before reopening his scar. His leadership set an example for the team over the course of the season.
Lilly Sievering dealt with a hip injury in the final stages of the postseason but was still able to play all 80 minutes in the state championship game. She wasn’t going to miss the final game of her high school career.
“Everybody else on the team sees that and feeds off that. We always talk about leading not only through your words, it’s leading through your actions, and that sets a tone that resonates and goes on throughout the entire team,” Scott Sievering said.
As the season rolled on, both teams faced and passed tough tests. The girls kept their sights on back-to-back titles while the boys redefined their goals with each result. It wasn’t until the postseason that both teams realized what was truly possible.
The girls only allowed one goal in the postseason, against Roger Bacon in the second round. The Spartans tied the match at 1-1 with seven minutes left before Mia Stevens scored the game-winner with 93 seconds left. The win was a product of a term the team coined earlier in the season: frustration tolerance.
“Be able to calm yourself down no matter what’s happening and just play your best,” Maddie Mescher said.
After winning their first three postseason games by a combined score of 19-1, the boys team ran into a tough Dayton Christian side. Austin Fry provided the gamewinner in the 80th minute, the first of three straight golden goals for the sophomore to lead the Silver Knights to the state championship game. Fry had five
game-winners on the year, four of them coming in the postseason.
“The boys, we were all supporting them because they hadn’t been there in a while. When they beat (Ottoville) in the state semis, we were all really excited for them. Once they had that, like, we always win when we go to state in the past. At that point, we kind of knew we would do it together,” Lilly Sievering said.
It’s true. The Silver Knights have never lost a state championship game. They have lost just three times in the state semifinals. Their 28-3 combined record in the state tournament is one of the best marks in state history.
Their unblemished record in state championship matches gave them confidence, but a gathering on the practice field the day before the girls played OttawaGlandorf served as a reminder of how interwoven these teams were. It was the last time the teams would meet on Williams Field and the coaches wanted to make sure the teams knew how much they meant to each other.
“When we talk about the boys and girls programs together, I love watching the players interact before practice. We usually practice on the same field together and push each other. The expectation is we’re on this journey together,” Mike Fee said.
The soccer teams weren’t alone on their journey; they had the backing of the entire school. All of the students that cheered the girls to back-to-back state championships on Friday came back on Monday to watch the boys win their first title since 2018.
Seeing the girls win on Friday motivated the boys to finish the job on Monday. Being in the stadium a few days before their game also gave them a feeling for the environment so they wouldn’t be intimidated.
Sievering framed the state championship as just another game. Sure, it had a title in front of it, but they needed to treat it like a regular season game.
“Coach spoke to us and reflected upon the atmosphere at Summit. ’This is where you belong. Soccer is your thing.’ I think it’s rooted in our history and the task wasn’t too big for us,” Kintner said.
Many sports teams think of themselves as a family; the Summit Country Day soccer programs are truly benefactors of family trees. A majority of the school’s 13 combined state titles have been made possible by brothers, sisters and cousins.
Forrest Cloran ‘28
Emma Gibson ‘27 and Lilly Sievering ‘25
Isaiah Rodgers ‘28
Sam Viltro ‘28
Esmé Gonyo ‘25
Marcel Huguet ‘26 (left)
Emma Bailey ‘25 playing at Transylvania in the Fall
(L to R): Emma Bailey ‘25, Esmé Gonyo ‘25, Lilly Sievering ‘25, Bree Reder ‘26, Maddie Mescher ‘25, Maryn Mahoney ‘25 and Delaney Kintner ‘25.
Brenden Hamilton had been a ball boy since the fifth grade and saw his older brother Kendall win trophies in 2017 and 2018. Even though the senior forward missed the first five games and didn’t score his first goal until Sept. 28 against Lakota East, he found the back of the net four times in the postseason, including the state championship-winning goal in the 49th minute against Minford.
“I told him after the game, ‘You deserve that. You were the person who was meant to score that.’ He has given this program his all. He’s been on varsity for four years. For anyone to be on our team to score, it should have been him,” Ray said.
Lilly Sievering began walking the sidelines as a ball girl in 2014 when her dad took over the boys program. She saw him win four straight titles from 2015-2018, then saw her older sister, Madison, become an All-American as a senior in 2022. Sweeping this year’s titles was a pretty good page in the family scrapbook.
“You take a moment to look back on that as a dad and as a coach at the same time. It was pretty awesome to be able to share it with her,” Scott said. This year’s squads boasted four sets of siblings (Beckett and Sydney Brinkman, Jackson and Lily Grant, Hayden and Delaney Kintner, and Mia and Max Stevens).
In the OHSAA’s history, six schools have won the boys and girls soccer state titles in the same year. Summit Country Day is the only school to do it multiple times. Ever since the boys earned their first championship in 1999 and the girls brought home their first trophy in 2011, the standard of winning has been there. “There’s so much commonality in both of our programs,” Fee said.
It was truly a season to remember for both teams, filled with memories, lessons, and every sector of the emotional spectrum. As rosters, opponents and results change from year to year, it only seems like a matter of time until both teams revel in postseason glory once again.
(L to R) Elle Edwards ‘26, Sydney Brinkman ‘26, Carolyn Federle ‘26 and Abigayle Penote ‘27.
(L to R by row) Austin Fry ‘27, Ben Dobelhoff ‘25, Quinn Kreider ’25, David Ray ‘25, Hayden Kintner ‘25, Elijah Warner ‘27, Brenden Hamilton ‘25, Jackson Grant ‘25, Isaiah Rodgers ‘28 and Forrest Cloran ‘28.
Summit Athletes Shine in an Outstanding Fall Sports Season
Summit’s fall sports teams delivered an impressive season, bringing home multiple championships, individual accolades, and team recognitions across various sports. From state championships to coach of the year honors, Summit student-athletes showcased their dedication, teamwork, and excellence on and off the field.
Several Summit athletes were recognized in the Cincinnati Enquirer’s 2025 High School Sports Awards for their exceptional fall season performances. Honorees include Liam Woodward ‘26 (boys’ cross country), Callie Fox ‘26 (girls’ cross country), Chloe Castellini ‘26 (field hockey), David Ray ‘25 (boys’ soccer), Mia Stevens ‘26 (girls’ soccer), and, Maggie Marburger ‘25 and Katelyn Bastos ‘25 (doubles tennis). These athletes demonstrated outstanding dedication, leadership, and contributed to successful seasons, highlighting Summit’s strong athletic program and commitment to the physical pillar.
Football
Summit finished fifth in the MVC Scarlet Division, demonstrating resilience and determination throughout the season. Sam Reder ‘26 emerged as a defensive force, securing the title of Defensive Player of the Year. His outstanding efforts on the field were acknowledged with multiple prestigious honors, including First Team All-League (MVC), All-City Second Team, All SW Ohio District VI, All SWOFCA Second Team, and All Ohio Second Team. Reder’s contributions on the field played a vital role in Summit’s success, solidifying his
reputation as one of the top defensive players in the region.
Tennis
The girls’ tennis team had a truly exceptional season, finishing tied for first place in the MVC and securing a spot in the state tournament. Maggie Marburger ‘25 earned MVC Player of the Year honors, a recognition for her outstanding singles plays, which also earned her First Team honors. Her leadership and performance were critical to the team’s success. In doubles, Annette LaLonde ‘25 and Katelyn Bastos ‘25 formed a strong partnership, earning First Team honors for their impressive play on the court. Maggie Marburger ’25 and Katrlyn Bastos ’25 together advanced to the state doubles tournament. Their ability to work together consistently helped push the team to the top of the MVC standings. The team’s outstanding season was a testament to the dedication and skill of all its players, making it a memorable year for everyone involved.
Girls Cross Country
The Summit girls’ cross-country team had a very successful season, securing the MVC Championship, winning the District title, and achieving a runner-up finish at both Regionals and the State Meet. Their collective team effort led to a historic performance, with Callie Fox ‘26 earning MVC Runner of the Year honors and the title of Division III Cincinnati Enquirer Runner of the Year. Kurtis Smith was also recognized as MVC Coach of the Year for leading the team to its remarkable success.
Sam Reder ‘26
L to R: Maggie Marburger ‘25 and Katelyn Bastos ‘25
Several Silver Knights runners earned individual accolades, with Allie Reuter ‘26, Callie Fox ‘26, Anna Wiltshire ‘28, Jocelyn Lauckner ‘25, and Tessa Dennemann ‘27 named to the First Team AllMVC. The entire team qualified for the State Meet, showcasing their dominance. Fox’s achievements extended beyond the course, as she was also recognized as an Academic All-Ohio honoree for her excellence in both athletics and academics at The Summit.
Boys Cross Country
The Summit boys’ cross-country team had a strong season, finishing 2nd in the MVC, winning the District Championship, and placing sixth at Regionals. Liam Woodward ‘26 led the team, earning the title of Division III Cincinnati Enquirer Runner of the Year. He secured a spot at the State Meet alongside Will Fox ‘28.
Several athletes received league honors, with Liam Woodward ‘26, George Weaver ‘26, and Will Fox ‘28 being named First Team All-MVC. Woodward also excelled in the classroom, earning Academic All-Ohio recognition for his achievements both on and off the course.
Girls Soccer
Summit Junior Mia Stevens ‘26 has been named a high school All-American, continuing the school’s tradition for the third year in a row. She also earned Miami Valley Conference-Scarlet and Ohio DIV Player of the Year honors, scoring 23 goals and assisting 13. Stevens’ postseason performance included two goals in
a win over Roger Bacon. She was also selected for the all-Region team, alongside teammate Bree Reder ‘26, who earned her second consecutive selection. Both players have been key to Summit’s soccer success.
Girls Field Hockey
Summit senior Charlotte Thompson ‘25 lead the team with five goals in a season that ended with a 4-11-1 record. But this season’s standout player, and Cincinnati Enquirer Fall athlete nominee, was Chloe Castellini ‘26 with 156 saves for the season. She ranks number two in the state and number two in the Ohio High School Athletic Association.
‘26
We hope you like us (and follow us). Afterall, athletics is supposed to be social
To shine a brighter spotlight on our athletics programs, we launched Summit athletics pages on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn in the middle of the Fall sports season. An X account (formerly Twitter) already existed, although it is not currently managed under the same umbrella.
Most teams and several players have their own social media accounts to share personal accolades and victories. The purpose of the Summit-managed pages is to share athletics news and promote the value of an athletics program where everyone can participate.
Follow our accounts for athletics news and tag us if you post Summit-athletics related content so we can grow together!
Chloe Castellini
of SUMMIT ATHLETICS
City
councilwoman, legendary coach
inducted to Summit Hall of Fame
The Summit inducted two new members to its Athletic Hall of Fame on Oct. 5, a Cincinnati City councilwoman and a legendary coach.
Cincinnati City Councilwoman Anna Albi ’10, who distinguished herself in soccer and tennis while at The Summit, and Brian Spivey, the lacrosse coach who gave the Silver Knights their first state championship, were inducted.
“We are very grateful for both individuals’ contributions to the Summit Athletic Program,” said Summit Athletic Director Greg Dennis.
Anna Albi played in goal for The Summit’s soccer team and played both singles and doubles in tennis. She was captain of both varsity teams, an experience that she has said helped her develop leadership skills.
On one day in September 2008, she had a shut-out on the soccer pitch and later that same day, an on-court win in singles.
In 2006, Albi helped lead the tennis team to First Place in the Cincinnati Enquirer’s Division ranking and to the
school’s first appearance in the Ohio state team finals. In 2008, Albi and her partner Emma McGoff, were selected as the Greater Cincinnati Tennis Coaches’ Association Doubles Team of the Year. Anna was also selected to Second Team Singles.
She went on to play varsity soccer for Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) for four years and was the starting keeper for three years. She was selected for All UAA Honorable Mention in two years of those years. She was captain of the varsity soccer team for two years, helping to lead the team to its first NCAA Division Final in 2010. She remains on the “best of all time” list at CMU in several categories for goalkeepers, holds the number three spot for the most wins (30-14-7) and the number four spot for the most saves (148).
“Anna Albi is special as a person and a student-athlete,” Dennis said. “Anna played soccer as a goalie and she also played tennis, both in the same season. Anna will go down as one of the all-time best student-athletes at the Summit.”
Spivey was Head Lacrosse Coach from 1994-2002. In his tenure, the lacrosse team won the state championship
L to R: Kelley Schiess, Anna Albi’ 10, Jeff Stayton, Kevin Spivey, Marianne Cramer, Greg Dennis and Kevin Johnson, Jr. ‘13.
in 2002 and was third place in the state in 2001. He was named Division 3 Coach of the Year in 2002 and was head coach of the south team in that year’s Ohio AllStar Game. Many of his players were named first team, all-state recipients.
As the coach of The Summit’s inaugural lacrosse team, Coach Spivey not only laid the foundation for the program for years to come but also impacted the lives of many of his players.
“Kevin Spivey was very instrumental in starting the boys’ lacrosse program here at the Summit,” Dennis said. “And as a school, we will also be grateful for that.”
Hall of Fame - Summit honors three special award winners
During the Oct. 5 Athletic Hall of Fame ceremony at The Summit, special awards were given to people for their contributions to the school.
Social studies teacher Jeff Stayton was given the Farrell Ackley Award. Retired librarian Marianne Cramer received the Sister Rose Ann Fleming ‘50 Award and former board of trustees chair H. Nicholas Ragland BMS ‘83 was given the Silver Knights Victory Award.
The Farrell Ackley Award is given to an individual who has been an outstanding model of athletic success, while consistently exemplifying the values of honesty, character, discipline, and loyalty that the late Coach Farrell Ackley found to be so important.
The winner of this award, Jeff Stayton, worked with Mr. Ackley for 26 years and was mentored by him.
Jeff has been a jack-of-all trades in Summit athletics for 41 years. He was the athletic trainer for 20 years, JV and varsity golf coach for more than 15 years, Assistant Middle School tennis coach for one season and has run the clock for basketball, field hockey, lacrosse and football for more than 15 years. His greatest claim to fame was in baseball. He was the JV coach for many years and Varsity coach for three years. In 1995, his baseball team won the state championship.
“There is no doubt that winning state was the pinnacle of my coaching career,” he says. “Bringing The Summit its first state championship is a really cool thing. I must say that a head coach is only as good as his assistant coaches (Kim Cohen and Joe Molony) and their players. I was blessed with both. I always say that ‘I felt like Sparky Anderson of the Reds.’ I just make out the line up and stayed out of their way.”
The Sister Rose Ann Fleming ‘50 Award is presented to a member of The Summit’s community who played a significant role in the advancement, development and success of female athletics at The Summit. This year, that was Marianne Cramer, Summit’s librarian
for 38 years before her retirement in 2024. Mrs. Cramer was known for helping her students balance rigorous academics and athletic commitments, helping them become independent and giving them a place or respite from their hectic schedules.
“In the library, you have a chance to interact with students in a more personal way than you would in a classroom setting,” she says. “Taking an interest in the students’ activities, no matter what they are doing, no matter who they are, is really important to them. Knowing something you’ve read about their games and saying something to them about it makes a difference.”
The Silver Knight Victory Award is given to a Summit Country Day athletics benefactor who has supported the efforts of Silver Knights athletics through spirit of service, loyalty, time, and resources.
Nick Ragland is Co-Chair, Board of Directors of Gorilla Glue and Managing Member of Salt Creek Capital. An avid Lower School soccer coach and Middle School basketball coach when his children were young, he is a former chairman of The Summit’s Board of Trustees. He has been a major benefactor in support of The Summit and was a co-chair of the school’s last two fundraising campaigns. He contributed to the Ragland Family Scholarship. He and his wife, Joelle, created the Nick and Joelle Ragland Scholarship. and the Ragland Family Endowment Incentive Program to encourage other benefactors to establish a new endowed fund. Their children were athletes in their high school years. Alex rowed with the CRJC and Sydney was on the golf team.
“Sports, like the other pillars, is vital to the development of a complete individual,” he says. “Sports, at its best, teach us skills and qualities that stay with us the rest of our lives -- teamwork, competitiveness, sportsmanship, hard work, and perspective. Summit, especially for our size of school, does it as well as anyone.”
McKenzie-Sargent Distinguished Alumni Award – Allison (Hiltz) Kropp ‘93
The McKenzie-Sargent Distinguished Alumni Award honors The Summit’s first alumnae and recognizes graduates for exceptional achievements in career and community service. Allison (Hiltz) Kropp ‘93 exemplifies this award through her extensive leadership and contributions.
“I am incredibly honored to have been selected to receive the Mckenzie-Sargent Award. I am grateful for my Summit experience because it prepared me for college and for life,” said Mrs. Kropp. “It instilled in me values that guide my decisions and solidified my faith.”
As a dedicated alumna, Allison has significantly impacted The Summit and the Cincinnati community. She has held key leadership roles, including Board Chair for the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati and Vice Chair for the Cincinnati Museum Center and CISE Fund. Her involvement with numerous boards demonstrates her commitment to service.
At The Summit, Allison co-chaired the successful Leading the Way Campaign, raising over $21 million, and contributed to the Upper School Resources Program. As chair of The Summit Board of Trustees, she guided the community through challenges like COVID-19 and continues to be active on several Board Committees. She was also Summit’s Board Chair and on our Foundation Board.
As a Summit parent of three (Finn ‘25, Paige ‘26 and Piper ‘31) Allison volunteers extensively, supporting students and faculty, especially during difficult times. Her engagement fosters strong connections within the community, shifting the focus from “The Summit” to “Our Summit,” and emphasizing relationship-building.
“Our Summit is a very special place, and I am fortunate to be a part of this wonderful community, not only as an alumna, but also as a parent and volunteer.”
(L to R) Francie Hiltz, Brian “J.B.” Kropp, Paige Kropp ‘26, Allison Kropp ‘93, Piper Kropp ‘31, Finn Kropp ‘25, Kelley Schiess, Tom Hiltz.
Ne Ultra Award - Jim Evans
The Ne Ultra Award, meaning “none higher” in Latin, honors individuals who have significantly contributed to The Summit’s progress. Jim Evans, a Summit parent (Grace ’25 and Tiffany ’96), trustee, visionary, donor and advisor, exemplifies this award through his exceptional dedication and philanthropy. Over the past three decades, he has played a vital role in growing the endowment, enhancing socioeconomic diversity through scholarships and establishing the Summit Support Fund for students and staff in need.
“Along his journey he has become one of the most philanthropic and supportive leaders of our community,” said Head of School Kelley Schiess. “What is special about Jim in that he is a trusted advisor and loyal friend to The Summit. He offers key insight, identifying and supporting some of The Summit’s greatest needs.”
For more than three decades, Jim has supported academic excellence by founding the James E. Evans Teacher Institute Fund, which provides professional development opportunities for educators. He has been instrumental in our endowment growth and established an endowed fund for students in 2020 which exists to assist families whose circumstances mean they wouldn’t otherwise be able to participate in The Summit school experience. Recently, this fund expanded to support faculty and staff experiencing distress due to personal circumstances. Additionally, Jim backed community-focused capital projects, such as the Middle School playground and the St. Cecilia’s Maintenance Fund.
The Summit community is grateful for Jim’s significant impact and contributions to enhance the Summit experience for all.
Jim Evans has devoted over three decades to The Summit and was given the Ne Ultra Award during the 2024 Founders Day celebration. (L to R) Kelley Schiess, Tiffany Evans ‘96, Jim Evans, Grace Tounge ‘25, Mary Beth Tounge.
Scholarships help live out the mission
By Emily Fernback
The Summit has been growing its endowment since its transfer to an independent board of trustees in the 1980s. Some of these endowed funds support scholarships that provide talented students with opportunities they might not otherwise have.
The Upper School stands apart with quality resources and unique learning opportunities, with faculty offering 24 college level Advanced Placement courses.
“The Scholarship Awards Ceremony is a testament to The Summit’s commitment to academic excellence and character development,” says Development Director Bailey Bundy. “As we celebrate our seventh consecutive year as the No. 1 Catholic high school in Ohio, we see these students already living out the core of our mission—embracing faith, learning, leadership and service. We are excited to welcome them into our community and support their journey here at The Summit.”
Celebrated in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel, 34 endowed scholarships were awarded in March to 41 rising freshmen in the Class of 2029.
• Farrell Ackley Memorial Scholarship
Elijah Stewart, St. Ignatius Loyola
• Dr. Ken and Maureen Amend Scholarship
Sophie Daniher, The Summit Country Day School
• Marc Bohlke Memorial Scholarship
Bryce Phillips, Bethany School
• Burns Family Scholarship
Graham Wieland, Our Lady of the Visitation
• Castellini Family Scholarship
Olivia Miele, The Summit Country Day School
• Constance (Alf) Castleberry ‘20 Memorial Scholarship
Logan Kersjes, St. James The Greater
• Chavez Family Scholarship
Kyla Ysabel De Dios, Incarnation School; Henry Phelan, St. Ignatius Loyola
• Patricia and Joseph H. Clasgens II SBS ‘37 Scholarship
Logan Butler, The Summit Country Day School
• A.J. Cohen ‘97 Memorial Scholarship
Woodrow Hinton IV, St. Antoninus
• Kim and Scott David Family Scholarship
Gianna Frederickson, All Saints
• Edmonson Family Scholarship
Griffin Nuss, All Saints; Sofia Pancheri, The Summit Country Day School
• James E. Evans Scholarship
Olivia Tolliver, St. Dominic
• Missy Segal and Brian J. Fox Scholarship
Jason Overbeck, St. Ignatius Loyola
• Marc Gerald Fragge ‘83 Scholarship
Maguire Imperial, The Summit Country Day School
• Joan and James J. Gardner Family Scholarship
Beckham Carrasquillo, The Summit Country Day School
• Madeline and Patrick Gilligan Family Scholarship
Nikhil Jain, The Summit Country Day School
• Claire “Conky” Greiwe ‘61 Scholarship
Hannon Davidson, St. Margaret of York
• Griffin Family Scholarship
Quinn Caro, St. Margaret of York; Drew Dobelhoff, Madeira Middle School
• Chris and Trey Heekin Family Scholarship
Henry Ahouse, The Summit Country Day School
• Margo S. Homan Scholarship
Charlotte Bonfield, St. Andrew – St. Elizabeth
Ann Seton
• Andrew J. Huesing Scholarship
Ava Boyer, The Summit Country Day School
• Paul and Elizabeth Jantsch Family Scholarship
Emily Lammers, Taylor Middle School
• Mary Louis Jung Scholarship
Reagan Nuss, All Saints
• J. Patrick Kelly Endowed Scholarship
Marian Ortiz Rodas, Romero Academy at Resurrection
• Pat and Joe Perin Scholarship Fund
Eliana Volmer, Cardinal Pacelli
• Nick and Joelle Ragland Scholarship
Aubrey Blakely, Wyoming Middle School; Claudio
Matos, The Summit Country Day School; Dallas Parker, The Summit Country Day School
• Seltman Family Scholarship
Madison Moran, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy
• Gail P. and David C.T. Smith Family Scholarship
Margaret Seitz, Immaculate Heart of Mary
• Arthur and Irma Theobald Scholarship
Grayson Hoskins, Bethany School; Calvin Janes, St. Veronica; Jules Thurmond, Bethany School
• William J. Williams ‘29 Scholarship
Kaden Lewis, Bethany School
• Carol Ann and Rich Wilson Family Scholarship
Aiden Haubiel, St. James The Greater
• Jaden “Jay Chief” Woodard ‘18 Scholarship
Hailey Holscher, Our Lady of the Visitation
Kelley Schiess, Bryce Phillips ‘29 and Dr. Kirstin McEachern.
Conky Greiwe ‘61, Hannon Davidson ‘29, Cindy Conway and Bob Conway, Jr.
J. Patrick Kelly, Marian Ortiz Rodas ‘29 and Susan Kelly.
Aiden Haubiel ‘29 and former Head of School Rich Wilson.
• Nancy Wurzelbacher ‘76 Scholarship Jocelyn Shaw, All Saints
• Zeilstra Family Scholarship David Poignard, Bethany School
MERIT SCHOLARS: 44 IN TOTAL
In addition to endowed scholarships, 44 merit scholarships were awarded in March based on high academic achievement, testing, character references, teacher recommendations, an individual interview and an essay. Merit scholarships include Presidential, Billiart and Honor.
OUTSIDE SCHOOL MERIT SCHOLARS
(23)
Presidential Scholars:
• Ana Sofia Benavides Orta, All Saints
• Braeden Lakhia, St. Margaret of York
• Emily Lammers, Taylor Middle School
• Liam Morris, Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori
• Jocelyn Shaw, All Saints
• Jonah Stieritz, Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori
Billiart Scholars:
• Sydney Beatty, St. Ursula Villa
• Charlotte Bonfield, St. Andrew – St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
• Aiden Haubiel, St. James The Greater
• Hailey Holscher, Our Lady of the Visitation
• Logan Kersjes, St. James The Greater
• Madison Moran, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy
• Reagan Nuss, All Saints
• Jason Overbeck, St. Ignatius Loyola
• Eliana Volmer, Cardinal Pacelli
Honor Scholars:
• Sebastian Brisken, St. Gertrude
• Quinn Caro, St. Margaret of York
• Hannon Davidson, St. Margaret of York
• Kyla Ysabel De Dios, Incarnation School
• Gianna Frederickson, All Saints
• Woodrow Hinton IV, St. Antoninus
• Griffin Nuss, All Saints
• Greyson Reed, St. Margaret of York
SUMMIT MERIT SCHOLARS (21)
Presidential Scholars:
• Henry Ahouse, The Summit Country Day School
• Cameron Kline, The Summit Country Day School
• Samuel Krulcik, The Summit Country Day School
• Olivia Miele, The Summit Country Day School
• Dallas Parker, The Summit Country Day School
• Ari Symonds, The Summit Country Day School
Billiart Scholars:
• Ava Boyer, The Summit Country Day School
• James Busch, The Summit Country Day School
• Jack Erbeck, The Summit Country Day School
• Asela Goico, The Summit Country Day School
• Charlie Jenkins, The Summit Country Day School
• Sebastian Kumar Gonzalez, The Summit Country Day School
• Isaac Lam, The Summit Country Day School
• Sofia Pancheri, The Summit Country Day School
• Caroline Reynolds, The Summit Country Day School
• Alaina Williams, The Summit Country Day School
Honor Scholars:
• Beckham Carrasquillo, The Summit Country Day School
• Van Devendorf, The Summit Country Day School
• Nikhil Jain, The Summit Country Day School
• Stefen Karageorges, The Summit Country Day School
• Claudio Matos, The Summit Country Day School
Jim Evans and Olivia Tolliver ‘29.
Chris Woodard, Hailey Holscher ‘29 and Betty Woodard (In memory of Jaden “Jay Chief” Woodard ‘18.)
Alumni in college athletics
By Nancy Berlier
Silver Knights enthusiasts have the opportunity this year to follow the collegiate athletic careers of dozens of Summit Country Day School alumni.
In the past five years, more than 50 Silver Knights have signed or committed to play with a diverse range of colleges and universities from NCIA Division I to NAIA, small and large schools as well as some Ivy League schools. According to scholarshipstats.com, a little over 7 percent of high school athletes overall go on to play a varsity sport in college. In Summit’s last graduating class alone, 14 percent of the graduates are on college teams and most of the graduates from the previous four years are still playing.
Some students have transferred to different colleges from the ones that were announced during their senior years at The Summit. For Silver Knights fans, here is an update on where you can follow their college careers:
In baseball, Nolan Miller ’23 is on the roster at Mount St. Joseph University.
In men’s basketball, Gates Flynn ’21 plays for Denison University in Granville. Jalen Dandridge ’24 signed to play basketball at NCAA Division III, Heidelberg University in Tiffin. Several standout female athletes continued their basketball careers. Kyla Irby ’23 is at Otterbein University in Westerville. Gabby Martin ’23 transferred to Miami University-Hamilton. Shamirah McBride ’23 plays at the University of Rio Grande in Rio Grande. Bry Woodard ’21 is at Denison University in Granville. Patrick McHugh ’23 helps out the basketball practice team at Villanova University in Villanova, PA, in a practice player role and also serves as the marketing chair for the Villanova Sports Analytics Club.
In field hockey, Mia Booth ’23 plays for Bellarmine University in Louisville, KY and Abby Moore ’22, Miami University in Oxford.
Football players Graham Nicholson ’21 is a senior placekicker at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL; while Jacob Carrico ’23 in Danville, Ky., Graham Hodge ’24 and Sumner Shroyer’ 24 took their talents to Centre College, Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD and Wittenberg University in Springfield, respectively.
Nate Borman ’24 committed to Walsh University in North Canton men’s lacrosse. Davis Whiting ’20 is on
Graham Nicholson ‘21, University of Alabama Football.
Ella Barnes ‘23, Davidson College Soccer.
Mila Brusch ‘22, University of Denver Gymnastics.
Hodge ‘24, Johns Hopkins University Football.
the lacrosse team at High Point University in High Point, NC.
In rowing, Drew Hinton ’24 is on the crew for Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT, James Hinton ’23 for College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA and Maddie Sumnar ’24 for Villanova University in Villanova, PA.
The men’s soccer program was also well-represented, with Joaquin Beatty ’24 playing for DePauw University in Greencastle, IN; Tommy DeRoussel ’24, Leigh University in Bethlehem, PA; Izzy Rawlings ‘24, Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware; Sam Zawaly ’22, Salve Regina University in Newport, RI.
On women’s soccer teams, Kayla Allen ’23 plays for Ohio Christian University in Circleville, Ella Barnes ’23, Davidson College in Davidson, NC; Kelsey Bello ’23, Stonehill College in Easton, MA; Lily Martin ’24, Thomas More University in Crestview Hills, KY; Maggie McDowell ’24 to Trine University in Angola, IN; Madison Sievering ’23, Mercyhurst University in Erie, PA; Sammy Vibberts ’24, Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, NC, Katie Corrigan ’22, Walsh University in North Canton; Kathryn Shaffer ’22, John Carroll University.
In swimming, Lily Mitchell ’24 swims for College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA.
In tennis, Ashleigh Grooms ’23 plays for West Chester University in West Chester, PA; Elizabeth Fahrmeier ’21, Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH.
In gymnastics, Mila Brusch ’22 is on the team at University of Denver University in Denver, CO. Grace Harrell ’21 is student manager of the Women’s Gymnastics team at Penn State University in University Park, PA.
In cheerleading, Elizabeth Dziech ’21 is on the squad at Centre College in Danville, KY.
Graham
Maddie Sumnar ‘24 Villanova University Rowing.
Madison Sievering ‘23, Mercyhurst University Soccer.
Lily Mitchell ‘24, College of the Holy Cross Swimming.
Bry Woodard ‘21, Denison University Basketball.
Gates Flynn ‘21 Denison University Basketball.
Elizabeth Fahrmeier ‘21, Dartmouth College Tennis.
Sumner Shroyer ‘24, Wittenberg University Football.
Upcoming Dates
July 22-24, 2025
Alumni Athletic Games
Sept. 18
Fleur-de-lis luncheon
Sept. 19
SPA Fall Festival, Alumni Tailgate and Homecoming game.
Sept. 20
Athletic Hall of Fame. (Inductees will be announced at halftime during the Sept. 19 football game.)
Reunions for this year are the class years ending in 6 and 1. The reunion weekend will be Sept. 20. All alumni are invited. If you are interested in planning your reunion for 2026, contact your class rep or Kevin Johnson Jr. ’13, Alumni Engagement and Gifts officer, at johnson_k@summitcds.org.
Sept. 21
Campus tour at Noon. Memorial Service for Alumni and The Summit Community at 1 p.m., Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel.
Oct. 24
Legacy Photo, Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel
Alumni Contact Kevin Johnson, Jr. ’13
Alumni Engagement and Gifts Officer
513.871.4700 ext. 240 johnson_k@summitcds.org
The Summit Alumni Office and Northside Distilling Co. Collaboration
The Summit Alumni Office and alumni-owned business, Northside Distilling Co., collaborated to create an exclusive custom-label bourbon whiskey bottle dedicated to The Summit and Alumni community. This collaboration was centered around engaging our alumni while supporting alumni-owned businesses. The custom-label was designed and voted for by our alumni community and provides a unique connection to The Summit.
If you are interested in securing your custom-label bourbon bottle, please contact Kevin Johnson Jr. ’13. Limited quantity available.
Alumni who own/invested in Northside:
Josh Koch ‘00
Karl Pembaur ‘00
Justin Thompson ‘00
Lauren (Russell) and Jamal † Shteiwi ‘01
Chip Heidt ‘98 SMS
Jaime Masters SMS ‘98
Jackson Thompson ‘20
Conquer
the Night with the Knight Cap Cocktail
• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz lime juice, or 2 lime wedges, squeezed
• 2-3 blackberries, muddled or .5 oz blackberry puree
• 3/4 oz. simple syrup or 1 Tbsp sugar
• 1 oz club soda
• 1 cup of ice
Alumni gathered for a special Happy Hour at Northside Distilling Co. and voted on the design for the exclusive custom-label bourbon bottle.
Class Notes
Alumni class notes are now published in the quarterly alumni e-newsletter. Please submit your updates on job promotions, marriages, babies, awards and other notable events online at www.summitcds.org/submityournews or scan the QR code.
Reunions 2024
Legacy Photo 2024
Every year we welcome parents and grandparents of our legacy students to campus for a group picture. More than 200 children and adults gathered for this Hallmark Moment on Oct. 23.
The Class of 1974 celebrate their 50-year Reunion.
The Class of 1964 celebrate their 60-year Reunion.
The class of 1984 gather at Gina (Baluyot) and Peter Saba’s house for their reunion.
Members of the Class of ‘74 returned to the steps of The Summit.
Members of the class of 1994 celebrated their reunion at alumni-owned business Nada, owned by David Falk ‘94.
Class of 2014 reunion.
One Night All Knights Party for The Summit Fund
Summit’s 2nd annual event brings together current parents, faculty and staff for an evening of fun, community and celebration. Cocktails and dinner by the bite were accompanied by live and silent auctions, a raffle, live entertainment and a Jimmy Buffett flip- flop causal theme.
Top row (L): Ellie Johns, Jennifer (Williams) Dakers SMS ‘04, Bailey Bundy, Kelley Schiess, Michaela (Frisbie) Facchinei ‘05, Molly Vollmer.
Kristian Gatewood raises a glass to a night of fun.
Joel Stone, Kelley Schiess and Lauren (Brinkmeyer) Goebel ‘96 announce raffle winners.
Rob and Alexa McDonald, Nate Carlson and Jennifer (Williams) Dakers SMS ‘04.
Erin and Jeremy Viltro, Jon and Andrea Stevens, Lara and Jeff Reder and Melissa and Michael Anderson.
Bobby Maly, Luke Pater, Amy Pater and Rachel Maly.
Many One Night, All Knights attendees sported Hawaiian shirts, colorful sundresses and leis, embracing the beach vibe of the night. The music of Jimmy Buffet got everyone moving on the dance floor.
James and Linda Moeggenberg, Jon ’03 and Abby (Broerman) ’04 Steinman and Mia and Gordon Myers.
Emily (Sheckels) Ahouse ‘98, Tom Neyer, David Ahouse.
Wendy (Sutphin) Ritch GMS ‘86, Virna Viacava, and Soledad Volk.
Trey and Kristen Kelly, Bassey Eno-Idem.
Chris Woodard and Kevin Johnson, Jr. ‘13
Student Life
Operation Montserrat, a distance learning program from the Challenger Learning Center.
Grandparents Day in Montessori.
Science Research Institute student, Sophia Nery ’25, presenting at the Colloquium.
Middle School games emulate Hungry Hippos.
House competitions include The Summit version of Quidditch. Lower School students discover how to safely gaze at the sun.
Every student hangs their own cross during First Reconciliation. Lower School preparing turkey art ahead of the holiday.
Upper School math classes marking Pi Day (3.14) at 3:14 p.m.
All divisions gathered together for Catholic Schools Week mass.
513.871.4700
www.summitcds.org
Address
June
2 - August 1 Our Summer Camp programs are packed full of fun for children from all over the tri-state area. We offer classes for ages 3 to high school students.
you have any questions Chris Woodard, 1-12 Camps Manager Email: woodard_c@summitcds.org
