Montgomery Academy Summer 2014

VISIONS SUMMER 2014

THE MONTGOMERY ACADEMY Visions - Summer 2014

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Visions The Montgomery Academy Established 1959

Head of School Dave Farace

SUMMER 2014

Mission Statement The Montgomery Academy develops leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence.

dave_farace@montgomeryacademy.org

Associate Head of School Vivian Barfoot vivian_barfoot@montgomeryacademy.org

Director of Advancement Carolyn Peddy Bryan ‘75 carolyn_bryan@montgomeryacademy.org

Director of Communications Leigh Barganier leigh_barganier@montgomeryacademy.org

Annual Giving & Alumni Programs Coordinator Marie Harrington marie_harrington@montgomeryacademy.org

The Montgomery Academy 3240 Vaughn Road Montgomery, Al 36106-2725 (334) 272-8210 • Fac (334) 277-3240 www.montgomeryacademy.org The Montgomery Academy is a member of

National Association of Independent Schools The Montgomery Academy admits students of any race, religion, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school.

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2013-2014 Board of Trustees

2013-2014 Alumni Council

Mr. Clark Sahlie ‘84 President Mr. Ronnie Brown ‘92 Vice President Mr. Owen Aronov Secretary/Treasurer Dr. Steve Davidson Ms. Lee Hayes Mr. Pete Taylor ‘80 Mrs. Krystal Mims Mr. Temple Millsap ‘74 Mrs. Shannon Speir Mr. Gil McKenzie Mrs. Anita Barrera Mr. Jim Leonard Dr. Brad Katz Mrs. Lee Sellers ‘84 Mr. Mike Jenkins IV Mr. Sommerville Hill ‘89 Mrs. Roly Singh Mr. Lee Copeland ‘75 Mrs. Debby Spain Dr. Rodney Smith Mr. Lewis Gayden ‘87 Mrs. Leura Canary Mrs. Carol Hodges

President – Sommerville Hill ‘89 Hart Johnson ‘97 Jeanie Montiel Parnell ‘95 Gray Borden ‘97 John Ashworth ‘92 Georgia Stevenson Holmes ‘01 Mallory Watson Searcy ‘02 Alex Carothers ‘98 Elizabeth Bloom Williams ‘02 Philip Sellers ‘02 Taylor Williams ‘03 Rachael Saucer ‘03 Robert Mooty ‘04 Britney Crawford Sellers ‘06 Price McLemore ‘90 Alice Novak ‘92 Josh Segall ‘97 McCain Ashurst ‘98 Emily Dauber Flowers ‘99 Phelps Reid ‘99 Bert Morris ‘96 Sally Vann Wiggins ‘02

On the cover: The Class of 2014 was celebrated during the Commencement ceremony on May 22 where Ed Bell ‘80 was the speaker. For more on Commencement, turn to page 6.

visions table of contents

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Senior Class

Commencement, Class Graduation Photo, College Acceptances, College Process Completed

15 Alumni

Youth in Government, MA on The Road

19 Academics Retirement Reception, Awards Night, Speech & Debate State Champions, aMAzing Year

26 Athletics

Excellent Athletic Year, Track State Champions, Girls Soccer State Champions, Boys Tennis State Champions, Eagle Day

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A LETTER FROM THE

HEAD OF SCHOOL As a Head of School, I spend a good bit of time in meetings with adults, primarily teachers, parents, administrators and trustees. The work we engage in is critical to advancing the Academy’s mission and I feel blessed to partner with such talented and devoted people. But I must be candid—when I reflect on the moments of joy of the 2013-2014 school year, they all involve kids. A few personal highlights of the past year that make me proud to serve MA are below.

Courtyard Convocation:

This is a new tradition that officially kicks off the school year. Held in the Courtyard, it is one of the few times during the year where we bring the entire K-12 community together.

Seniors escort the newest members of our community, their Kindergarten buddies, into the Academy Family.

The atmosphere is thick with anticipation and everyone gathered on that August morning, including yours truly, is nervous and excited about what lies ahead.

All-School Choral Celebration:

A beautiful celebration, this is an event where our Lower, Middle, and Upper School choral groups perform for the MA community. To end the evening, all of the groups join together as one group to sing the finale. I am always moved to tears at this event and am reminded that music is a powerful source of truth, beauty and inspiration.

Our choral groups are true gifts to the MA community.

Cum Laude Society Induction Ceremony: Established in 1906, the

Cum Laude Society recognizes the Pursuit of Excellence in scholarship.

The presence of a Cum Laude Society chapter at an independent school is an indication that superior

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scholastic achievement is honored on campus. There are only three schools that have chapters in Alabama: Randolph School in Huntsville, UMS Wright School in Mobile and Montgomery Academy.

The ceremony gives us the opportunity to recognize the top scholars in the 11th and 12th grades and to celebrate the Academy’s commitment to intellectual curiosity and academic integrity. It is a moment of hope and joy at MA because the inductees represent the promise of the future.

Any one of our six athletic state championships: The strong tradition of excellence in the Academy’s academic program spills over to the playing fields, courts, and track. With the addition of six more state championships this year, the Academy now owns, by a long shot, the most of any school in the River Region with a grand total of 59.

It never gets old watching our student-athletes and coaches lift the trophy in triumph. To me, the championships are affirmations of the core values of courage, leadership, and sportsmanship and celebrations of the relationships and bonds between players and coaches.

Commencement: A dignified and reverent ceremony, our commencement does not include any individual awards or honors but rather celebrates the class as a whole. These young men and women will leave campus to pursue new adventures but they will always be the Class of 2014, united by the bonds of friendship and shared experience.

During their spring concert, our Upper School Chorus sang a wonderful song entitled “Draw the Circle Wide.”

The words to the song, written by Gordon Light, will always remind me of the Class of 2014:

Draw the circle wide, draw the circle wide. No one stands alone, we’ll stand side by side. Draw the circle wide; draw it wider still. Let this be our song! No one stands alone. Standing side by side, draw the circle, draw the circle wide!

May the members of the Class of 2014 carry this anthem of unity and compassion in their hearts forever.

- Dave Farace

Time spent with Seniors:

I spend a lot of time with seniors. I host advisory groups for breakfast throughout the fall, for dinner at my home in the winter, and for MA reflection meetings in my office in the spring. I clear my schedule for these visits for two reasons: (1) Seniors’ energy, enthusiasm, and humor are contagious and remind me why I love my job and (2) their perspectives, insights and opinions teach me a great deal about our school culture and make me better at my job. The irony is not lost on me that my greatest teachers are the very students under my care!

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2014 COMMENCEMENT

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Recipe For A Lucky Life Commencement Address | Ed Bell Class of 1980 | May 22, 2014 Have you ever wondered why some people seem to have all the luck?

What does “luck” mean, anyway?

When something good happens to you, do you think it is something you deserve, or that you got lucky?

Good afternoon. I would like to thank Headmaster Farace for inviting me back to Montgomery Academy to spend a few minutes with this fantastic group of graduates.

Thirty-four years ago, I was sitting right where you are, and some old guy stood where I am now. I am sorry to say I don’t remember who he was or what he had to say.

Is that what’s going to happen to me today?

Several years ago, when my daughter, Virginia, was in high school, she asked me, “Dad, how did you get to where you are today?”

What an opportunity!

Finally, I could bring all the life lessons my wife and I had been trying to impart on our kids into one, succinct manifesto that she could carry with her to guide her through her life.

So, I started from the top, back right here to Montgomery Academy.

Then to college, my first job, and my second. Then back to business school where I met her mother. I started a company, then she came along, her brother EJ and her younger brother Colin. Then finally her little sister, Mary Rose. I sold the company and joined my current firm which I helped build to where it is today.

This was my magnum opus. How could she not be impressed? I was impressed. I took a breath…and waited.

Ed Bell Biography In 1976, Ed Bell moved to Montgomery when his father was transferred to Maxwell Air Force Base. He tells the story of driving with his mother to Catholic High School to enroll, and halfway from the car to the front door of the school, abruptly announced that he wanted to go to The Montgomery Academy instead.

A few months later, he started as a 9th

grader.

While at MA, in addition to being in the

French Club and French Honor Society and serving on the Honor Council, Ed was also an all-state football player. His senior year, he was a Jimmy Hitchcock

“So...” she said, “Basically what you’re telling me is you just got lucky.”

Award nominee and also inducted into the Cum Laude

Wow, nothing like a high school kid to put you in your place.

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Princeton

But this made me think about luck. A lot of people think she is capricious and arbitrary. But I don’t believe this. I believe your relationship with luck is something you create and nurture, something you can control, even count on.

Seneca, a first century Roman philosopher said, “Luck is found at the crossroads of preparation and opportunity.” Then, a few years later, Oprah Winfrey said, “Luck is preparation meeting the moment of opportunity.” I don’t think that was an Oprah original…

Society. After graduation, he left Alabama to study because he wanted to build helicopters (a dream still unfulfilled). After college, he worked at Arthur Andersen before heading back to the University of Virginia where he got his MBA in 1989. Shortly after business school, he started a software development firm, which he ran until selling it in 2002.

He is

currently a partner at Analysis, Research, Planning Corporation in Washington, D.C. He met his wife, Jennifer, while in business school. They have been married for 24 years and have four lovely children.

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Elizabeth Kelly, Victoria Kim, Ellie Knight and Guan Lee

Matthew Virden, Rachel Warwick, Tristan Watson and William West

Class of 2014

I believe both Seneca and Oprah were on the right path, but I think there is more to Luck than that simple concept. There are five things I’ve learned about luck on my own journey. I call these “Ed’s Recipe for a Lucky Life.”

Ingredient #1: Preparation This is where Seneca and Oprah got it right. There is no substitute for being prepared. Whether you plan to win the race, ace the GMAT, bring down the house or create the next killer iPhone app, you have to put in the work up front. So, run your wind sprints, memorize your vocab, train your voice, and learn how to program. These things won’t guarantee a healthy relationship with luck, but they’re necessary.

Ingredient #2: Risk Taking By encouraging you to take risks, I’m not suggesting going to Las Vegas and putting your life savings down on black. What I mean is you need to stretch yourself, step outside your comfort zone and embrace the excitement of it.

Luck creates opportunities for us everywhere. Yet, she hides them behind our fears and self-doubt. Expose them like invisible ink over a candle. Open your mind to possibilities and who knows what opportunities might appear.

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Layne Williams, Justin Woolfolk and Rachael Yearwood

Ingredient #3: Grit By grit, I mean tenacity. Being lucky doesn’t mean sitting back and waiting for something good to drop in your lap. Luck requires hard work of you. There will be bumps and bruises along the way. Relationships and raising a family can be hard work. Pursuing a business or other worthwhile endeavor can be rewarding, but nothing comes with a guarantee of smooth sailing.

So, luck wants you to be gritty – persevere, be tough and don’t give up.

Ingredient #4: Respect for Others Look at the person next to you. Do you respect him? Do you appreciate her? Remember the old saying, “Good guys finish last.” I believe the good guy finishes first. Ultimately, in life, what goes around comes around. You are better off being honest and fair, looking for the win-win rather than trying to be cute or looking for the shortcut. Do the work and create real value, then expect to share in what you have created.

Whether it is in your personal relationships, civic involvement or business, focus on those around you. Be aware of their desires and objectives. Often, what they want is not the same as what you want – it’s not always a zero sum game.

Will Hayes, William Haynes, Brock Hendon and Wilson Herrick

John Ahn and Justin Freeman

Faculty members enjoy the ceremony

Dave Farace and Ed Bell ‘80

Ingredient #5: Fun F – U – N. Come on, live a little, and enjoy yourself. Life is not an arduous trek on which you toil, in hopes of achieving some promised riches down the road. The journey is the reward. You’re going to be dead in 80 years anyway. Do me a favor. Tomorrow morning when you wake up, look yourself in the mirror and say, “I’m going to make today the best it can be.” Appreciate the highs for the joys they bring, and even the lows for the perspective they give you. Happiness is ultimately a choice, a state of mind. You have control over it.

Caroline Lester, Lee Ellen Bryan ‘13, Cady Upchurch and Coach Julie Sinclair

Abe Lincoln said, “Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be.” That sounds about right to me.

There you have it! My Recipe for a Lucky Life – preparation, risk taking, grit, respect for others and fun.

It may sound like a simple plan, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. I have been on and off this train many times over the years. But follow these basic guidelines and maybe you, too, will have a son or daughter ask you, “How did you get to where you are today?”

And, then you can answer, “I just got lucky.”

Class of 2014 after the ceremony

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Class of 2014

The Montgomery Academy

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William Alexander Marks Acreman JeongHyun Ahn Matthew Jordan Allen Jennie Dockery Austin Jesse William Austin III

Garrett Alexandra Barnes

Elizabeth Pearson Bear Christopher Lyndon Birdsong Jr. Mary Elizabeth Chambers Mazie Elizabeth Chambers

Jacob Davis Chesnutt William Gregory Cochran Laken Danielle Dennis Thomas Chandler Eskridge Jr. Madeleine Harwood Durden Flemming Caroline Foster Franklin

Justin Riley Freeman Everett Michael Fuller Taylor Nicole Gerard Lilla Beatrice Granger Ashley Claire Hallford William Ashurst Hayes William Braswell Haynes Davis Brock Hendon

Wilson Murray Herrick Ann Mathews Hester

William Guy Hood IV Chelsi Lynn Howell

Benton Connell Hughes Elizabeth Ruth Hunter SungHun Jeon

Auburn University University of Notre Dame University of Alabama Auburn University Mississippi State University Davidson College University of Alabama University of Alabama Sewanee: University of the South Auburn University Auburn University University of Alabama Auburn University University of Alabama Auburn University University of Alabama Oxford College of Emory University Samford University University of Montevallo Auburn University University of South Alabama Auburn University Princeton University Auburn University Auburn University Samford University Auburn University Auburn University University of Alabama University of Alabama Auburn University

The Montgomery Academy

Texas Christian University University of Alabama at Birmingham Auburn University Emory University Birmingham-Southern College Auburn University University of Alabama University of Alabama University of Alabama Rhodes College University of Alabama Auburn University Auburn University Auburn University Auburn University Rhodes College University of Alabama Auburn University University of Oklahoma Auburn University Brevard University Auburn University Oklahoma State University Mississippi State University Georgia Institute of Technology Auburn University Wofford College University of Alabama Birmingham-Southern College Auburn University Georgia Institute of Technology

Class of 2014

Elizabeth Nichole Kelly Hyunjung Kim Ellie Catherine Knight Ga Un Lee

Rachel Harrison Lee Caroline Camden Lester Georgia Katterjohn Longshore John Hall Massey Jr. Sarah Paige Massey

Samuel Wallace McLain William Bonner McLemore Michael Maxwell Miaoulis

Silas Keller Mims

Anne Louise Pass

Michael Bud Philhower Martha Claire Rickard Lillian Rebecca Roth Thomas Graham Schmidt George Stone Sellers Hyun Woong Shin Claire Ramsey Sikes Jeffrey Alan Stallings Jr.

Cady Jorian McCord Upchurch Matthew Finley Virden Rachel Ashlyn Warwick Zackary Tristan Watson William Cameron West Layne Elizabeth Williams

Justin Ligmon Woolfolk Rachael Maria Yearwood Yea Won Yoon

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The

By Cheryl McKiearnan

COLLEGE PROCESS

COMPLETED The Winter 2014 edition of Visions included a brief ride-along with four MA seniors on their journey toward college acceptance, choice and enrollment. The May 1st deadline for committing to a college having come and gone, we can now tell the story of these students’ last steps toward the campuses they will call home for the next four years.

garrett barnes’

commitment to Davidson is actually over a year old, since she accepted a soccer scholarship to that school in the spring of 2013. However, she has been planning for the future just as deliberately and excitedly as her classmates who have only recently made their college choices. There are both certainties and possibilities ahead. Garrett will report to school in early August to begin working in earnest with the soccer team; freshman orientation is on August 21. She awaits news of her eventual roommate, who will be chosen for her with data gathered by an E-Harmony-like process.

Garrett will spend the time between graduation and August 5 preparing for both school and soccer.

An internship at the Baptist South emergency room with Dr. Moorehouse will give her exposure to the career for which she will begin her training by majoring in biology at Davidson. She will attend a soccer camp with her fellow freshman teammates to train for some conference games they will play before classes even begin.

Asked what she most looks forward to in the move to college, Garrett replies that she wants to meet new people. She is eager and very well prepared for this exciting step she is about to take.

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william west

and Wofford College have turned out to be the perfect pair.

William had been considering, with almost equal favor, Sewanee, Wofford and Samford.

When he was awarded the Daniels Scholarship, which pays all expenses for four years, the match was made. However, his commitment to Wofford is not motivated purely by economic concerns. He finds the social atmosphere a comfortable fit and is happy that the school is near several interesting cities. William is excited about the freedom that will come with going off to school and about the opportunities that all aspects of college life can offer.

He is interested in fraternity life, intramural sports and community service. Wofford has a January term whose short, focused courses William is eager to delve into. He anticipates a major in government, a department offering a wide array of courses on topics such as the statesmanship of Churchill and literature and politics. William looks forward with great excitement to the chances for growth and enjoyment that the next stage of his life offers.

rachel warwick

is officially a wreck: a Ramblin’ Wreck from Georgia Tech.

She made the choice after spending some time on her own listing the pros and cons of the top three schools on her list. Though being born in Texas gave her a sentimental attachment to Texas A & M along with an appreciation for its academic offerings, and though Purdue’s aerospace engineering program is very attractive, the opportunities at Georgia Tech won out. Rachel is as committed to the career and course of study that first captivated her at age 9 as she ever was; she hopes to eventually work for a firm like LockheedMartin or Boeing after she earns her degree. Rachel is excited about everything connected with going to college: new friends, the curriculum she will study, and opportunities to participate in such diverse activities as singing with an a cappella group and continuing her running, perhaps even joining a running club. Rachel’s many interests and talents will no doubt grow and flourish with her move to Atlanta in late August.

george sellers

Like his classmates, is delighted about the new freedom and possibilities to come: he looks forward to “everything!” about starting college.

After much internal debate, he settled on the University of Oklahoma as the school best suited to his interests and needs. In addition to simply seeming more inviting, Oklahoma has a petroleum engineering program that matches George’s academic and career aspirations. George’s interest in participating in ROTC remains strong; he will be involved in the program as a freshman and, depending on scholarship offers that could come his way at the end of freshman year, may choose to join the Air Force. George is keeping his options fluid, however: an internship with Shell or Exxon after his sophomore year could lead to a career in the petroleum business; an interest in youth ministry could eventually direct him to seminary. George’s many and varied interests should find ample expression at Oklahoma.

These four seniors gave the same kind of serious attention to making their final college choices that they did to every stage of the process.

Though they considered the pleasures associated with the schools they were interested in, they also thought long and deeply about the costs of attending each school and the relative merits of the academic programs.

Proceeding with a healthy mix of practicality, self-knowledge and vivid hopes and dreams, Garrett, William, Rachel and George have made decisions from which not only they, but the colleges lucky enough to enroll them, will benefit greatly. These students—and MA—have reason to be proud.

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Class of 2014 College Acceptances Auburn University Auburn University at Montgomery Belhaven University Belmont University Birmingham-Southern College Brevard College Case Western Reserve University Clemson University College of Charleston Davidson College Dartmouth College Emory and Henry College Emory University Florida State University Fordham University Furman University George Mason University Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia State University High Point University Huntingdon College Indiana University King’s College Louisiana State University Loyola University New Orleans

Mercer University Millsaps College Mississippi State University Mount Holyoke College New York University Oxford College of Emory University Oklahoma State University Princeton University Purdue University Rhodes College Samford University Savannah College of Art & Design Sewanee: University of the South Southern Methodist University Spring Hill College Texas A & M University Texas Christian University Troy University University of Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham University of California, Davis University of Georgia University of Houston University of Illinois at Chicago University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

University of Kentucky University of Louisiana at Lafayette University of Louisville University of Memphis University of Mississippi University of Mobile University of Montevallo University of New Orleans University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of North Carolina at Wilmington University of Notre Dame University of Oklahoma University of South Alabama University of South Carolina University of Texas at Austin University of Tulsa University of Virginia University of Washington Washington & Lee University Western Kentucky University Wofford College

The Class of 2014 of The Montgomery Academy claims numerous accomplishments in the classroom, in the arts, in the sports arena, and in the community. Comprised of 62 students, this Senior Class celebrates the recognition of two students being named National Merit Finalists, four students being named National Commended Students, and 18 AP Scholars by the College Board. Since joining the Upper School in the Fall of 2010, members of this class have played key roles in interscholastic athletics, capturing 15 State Championships, while at the same time contributing to the Visual and Performing Arts with local, state, and national recognition including consistent national prominence of the Choral Program as one of the top Choral Programs in the country along with the Speech & Debate program’s recognition by the National Speech & Debate Association as being in the top 1% in the nation. With acceptances to 72 different institutions of higher learning, 50 students in the Senior Class have been offered $5,951,177 in merit-based scholarship money, an amount which does not include financial aid or need-based scholarships.

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Class Notes

This spring the Advancement office hosted MA on the Road in Birmingham and Montgomery. The Wine Loft in Birmingham was a beautiful venue for the more than 30 MA alums to gather along with much loved faculty & staff Ken Dyess, Lower School director Jan Pringle and Coach Julie Sinclair. Rachael Saucer ‘03, Carolyn Bryan ’75, Marie Harrington and Dave Farace also enjoyed visiting with the Birmingham area alums across all decades! Local watering hole, the Pine Bar, was the place to be for the Montgomery Area alumni social on April 17. Several members of the current faculty and staff mingled with alums while enjoying the fantastic spring weather.

Stay tuned to see where MA on the Road will be stopping next!

BHM Susan Waller Nading ‘68, Ken Dyess, and Kay Blount ‘70

Turner Inscoe ’95 and Coach Julie Sinclair

Meagan Vucovich Robichaux ‘04, Rachael Saucer Gallagher ’03, and Kasdin Miller ‘03

Tay Bailey ’05 and Emily Bailey ‘08

Will Pringle ’94 and Lower School Director Jan Pringle

Will Pringle ’94, Courtney Dees King ‘94, and Nordan Dembitsky ‘94

Jennie Hackett Sellers ‘06, Meagan Vucovich Robichaux ’04 and Tay Bailey ‘05

Robert Brown ‘95, Rich Rosenthal ’84, Ken Dyess, and Julie Sinclair

Brooks Seale ‘90, Brooke Sullivan Bishop ‘04, Leigha Cauthen 99, Phelps Reid ‘99

Hart Johnson ‘97, Sommerville Hill ‘89, Emily Dauber Flowers ‘99

Sally Vann Wiggins ‘02, Elizabeth Bloom Williams ‘02, Mallory Watson Searcy ‘02

Marie Harrington, Rachael Saucer Gallagher ‘03, Jim Rives ‘82

MGM

George Parker ‘90, Alicia Nickelson ’98, Sommerville Hill ‘89, Dave Farace, June Garzon ‘89, Woodley Bagwell ‘92, Brooks Seale ‘90, Mitchell Dubina ‘00

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YOUTHINGOVERNMENT

by Stephanie Hill

Twice a year, Government Club members from the Upper School at The Montgomery Academy participate in statewide Alabama YMCA Youth in Government events. In the fall, students attend Youth Judicial, a weekend-long mock trial competition. In the spring, students attend Youth Legislature, and essentially take over the State House for an entire weekend to undertake the always challenging process of running all three branches of Alabama’s state government. Middle School students in seventh and eighth grade get a taste of Government Club and its reach in our state when they participate in Junior Youth Legislature in the spring. On average, 600 students participate in the Youth in Government events throughout the state, and many have participated for four to six years by the time they graduate from high school. Our Government Club students leave The Montgomery Academy with a fine understanding of what it means to be a leader, as well as how to pursue leadership responsibilities in college, graduate school, and as adults.

The Montgomery Academy has lengthy history of excellence with the Youth in Government program. Our students have held every elected position in this program, from Youth Governor to Chief Justice.

Youth Judicial and Youth Legislature are entirely student run. This means that students are judges, lawyers, witnesses, legislators, and lobbyists and learn the process of how to write their own bills, learn about parliamentary procedure, and how to put on a court case from start to finish.

Several years ago Chief Justice Sam Hobbs ‘09 picked up on the fact that a line of questioning was improper. A student-attorney brought up new evidence on appeal, which isn’t allowed, and instead of chiding the attorney (which could very well happen in a courtroom), Sam subtly redirected the line of questioning without making anyone look foolish or feel badly. It was a small moment, and no one else noticed it, but it was a mark of Sam Hobbs’ character and the embodiment of what the Youth in Government program desires to instill in high school students across the state. When in doubt, we understand as we participate in Youth in Government, we choose grace over arrogance.

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John Ahn Class of 2014 University of Notre Dame Class of 2018 In one of his college essays John Ahn wrote of his experience at the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly, a summer program affiliated with the Youth in Government program held in Black Mountain, North Carolina: All who have breathed in the crisp mountainous air on the steps of Lee Hall, the social hub of the Assembly, call this haven the birthplace of the Blue Ridge Spirit.

My personal enlightenment by this spirit began with my first Conference on National Affairs. Although this YMCA event emphasizes debate as one of its core values, the lessons that the delegates from every corner of the nation retain upon departure are vastly different. While one may find pride in delivering a speech in the face of hundreds and inspiring the minds of many, the sanctity of the conference realizes itself at the most unexpected times. After hours of debate, when I sat with my newly befriended, sipping a can of cold Coca-Cola, there I found peace.

I had always thought that happiness resided in numerical values -- number of friends, number of awards, and number on my report cards. At Blue Ridge, numbers became immaterial. I began to seek pleasure in simplicity. Away from a world full of conflicts and dissension, I could finally look into myself and discover what my exhausted soul had craved for so long. When one is able to put aside what clutters his mind and has the will to accept the lessons his soul craves, he can find serenity -- he can find contentment.

Along with happiness grew my inspiration to make an impact. Losing sight of what motivates us is nearly inevitable with the fast-paced society that expects us to conform to its norms. This subconscious repression affected me particularly during the debates when my natural inclination is to promote the passage of concepts that I support. However, when a young man from Tennessee, the same age as me, took the podium and confessed, “I do not care for the passage of my legislation as long as I know that you learned something new from me,� I knew that my subconscious repression was no more.

This undertone of gregariousness created a uniquely safe environment for sharing of opinions and information. At the Assembly, factors like ethnicity, political affiliation, and economic prosperity did not matter -- every opinion carried tremendous value. Black Mountain was the cradle of a truly open forum that I had never known before.

Hamilton Bloom Class of 2011 University of Alabama Class of 2015 President of the Student Government Association at the University of Alabama The Youth in Government Program led by Stephanie Hill gave me the chance to hone critical thinking skills in a manner that made them conducive to [my] becoming Student Government Association President.

With the guidance of Mrs. Hill, the interactions with students from all across the state in events such as Youth Judicial and Youth Legislature gave me the chance to realize that, fundamentally, it was the people who are influencing and influenced by policies that are important, not just the policies themselves. This people-first attitude gave me the necessary perspective and skills to be in the position I am today.

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Kasdin Miller Class of 2003 Yale University Class of 2007 Yale University School of Law Class of 2012 YMCA Youth in Government lives up to its charge to “build character, make a difference, and change lives.” My participation in the program helped me in the obvious ways: college admissions officers viewed the program favorably; I met current and future political leaders; I learned about state and local government; and I honed my research, writing, and public speaking skills. But two aspects of Youth in Government are not so obvious—the lifelong friendships that form among participants in the program and the program’s unique emphasis on servant leadership.

I cannot count the number of times I have called on the counsel of friends and mentors from Youth in Government, especially former CEO Bob McGaughey, as I contemplated personal and professional decisions over the last decade. And I cannot count how many times those calls have opened doors that have opened doors that have opened doors. Let me offer one example. After college graduation, I worked in the Bush Administration at the U.S. Department of Energy. A friend from Auburn High School, who I knew through Youth in Government, worked at The White House asked me if I would be willing to help with the President and Mrs. Bush’s trip to the Middle East. I would not have known her but for Youth in Government, and because of that shared experience, she knew that I would be a trusted member of the President’s advance team. I agreed to help, and during my two weeks in Egypt, I made new friends, met members of the Egyptian government, and even climbed Mt. Sinai at sunrise. My friend then invited me to help again—this time with the 2008 NATO Summit in Bucharest, Romania, which provided me with a once-in-a-lifetime chance to observe world leaders at work. The White House eventually offered me a full-time position, and I served as the Assistant Press Secretary to the First Lady for the last year of the Bush Administration. I know that I never would have obtained that job if not for my friend from Youth in Government.

Youth in Government also uniquely focuses on training young people to be servant leaders. The “servant” part is key. Many high school programs teach teenagers important leadership skills. But Youth in Government also teaches a crucial intangible—that success means nothing unless you achieve it with integrity. The program did not focus on always winning or being the best. It focused on doing what was right and helping others to be their best. I learned that, as the top officer in the program, I was not entitled to eat first at meals, speak first in meetings, and call all the shots. I should instead eat last and stay to clean up, let others shine, and consider other points of view before inserting my own. I know that I do not always live up to the standard of a servant leader, but I am confident that I am a better coworker, friend, and person because the Youth in Government program taught me that to lead is to serve, not the other way around. That lesson will last a lifetime.

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By Scott Richburg

retirement reception For fifty years Dianne McWilliams has set a high standard not only for her students but for herself. Here at The Montgomery Academy, she has embraced innovation and improvement, refusing to rest on her well-earned laurels. How often has Dianne’s inventiveness been a reproach to me: her willingness to master new technology and use it in exciting, class-transforming ways has provided everyone in the English Department a model to emulate. Her vision for a class called “What You Will” is an example of her student-centered approach to teaching. In that class Dianne collaborated with her students to formulate book lists, projects, and instruction. In her British Literature classes, Dianne used the i-Book application to create an impressive British literature text, all the while working with her student editors and writers. As English Department chair, I came to appreciate not only Dianne’s creative methodology but also her impeccable professionalism. No matter what task I asked her to do, she always did it efficiently and accurately. I also came to seek her wise counsel, and when I did, I always knew Dianne would offer an honest opinion--she respected me too much to give me “mouth honor” or say what she thought I wanted to hear. For that respect I am grateful. Above all of these fine attributes is this truth: Dianne McWilliams is a lover of words. She has spent her career helping students shape and sharpen the clarity and eloquence of their writing. During the writing process, Dianne often insisted on working with each student individually to ensure he or she continued to improve and mature as a young writer.

When I think of Dianne’s love for fine writing, I think of Coleridge’s definition of poetry: “The best words in the best possible order.” Such was Dianne’s career-long quest: To lead students to the power and beauty of well-chosen, well-crafted language. The MA Community is richer because of Dianne’s devotion to these lofty ideals, her unfailing commitment to the English language and her students.

The following faculty and staff members were recognized during Upper School Awards Night for their years of service at The Montgomery Academy:

5 YEARS

Terri Bear Jodi Chesnutt Lisa Clayton Robb McGaughey Frances Smith John Tracy Denise Wentworth

10 YEARS

Scott Bowman Susannah Cleveland Allison Gore Lucy Tankersley Marie Williams

15 YEARS

Cindy Ackerman Pam Gilpin

30 YEARS

Jerry Pickett Teresa Pittman

35 YEARS David Bethea Julie Sinclair

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AWARDSNIGHT U P P E R S C H O O L AWA R D S N I G H T & S E N I O R R E C O G N I T I O N Marjorie J. Dubina Award for Excellence in English

Joseph David Mooty Award For Sportsmanship in Athletics

John Ahn

Garrett Alexandra Barnes

Clinton Wade Segrest Award for Excellence in Mathematics

Male Athlete of the Year

Yea Won Yoon Award in Technology Taimoor Arshad

Joshua Terrell Thomas Female Athlete of the Year Garrett Alexandra Barnes

Award in Science

Junior Class Book Awards

William Braswell Haynes

Sewanee Book Award

Award in Latin

Jillian Alexis Tinglin

Jillian Alexis Tinglin

Yale Book Award

Award in French

Christopher Scott Simmons, Jr.

Anne Louise Pass

Faculty Awards For Character

Award in Art

These awards are presented by the faculty in recognition of the importance of moral and ethical development in the educational objectives of The Montgomery Academy. These awards recognize students who have demonstrated outstanding personal character, exemplary behavior, and a sincere regard for the rights of others.

Miso Kim

Grade 9

Award in Drama

William Byrne Wilson, Jr.

Anne Louise Pass

Lindsey Hannah Ferraro

Award in Speech & Debate

Grade 10

Benton Connell Hughes

Taimoor Arshad

Award in Spanish William Braswell Haynes Award in History Lillian Rebecca Roth

Award in Music William Guy Hood IV Award in Physical Education Judkins Durr Blount, Jr.

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Grade 12 Davis Brock Hendon Garrett Alexandra Barnes Faculty Award For Excellence The Faculty Award for Excellence is the highest honor given by the Academy.

The faculty selects that student who is most outstanding and deserving on the basis of character, academic achievement, scholarship, dependability, and loyalty.

William Braswell Haynes The Eugene Lee Crouch Unselfish Service Award Eugene Lee Crouch, after his retirement from the military, taught English at the Academy and served as the English Department Chair for many years until his death in the late 1970’s. He was a no-nonsense, hard-nosed disciplinarian but was very popular with his students, going above and beyond the call of duty in order to help his students succeed.

Mr. Crouch was active in student service projects that reached beyond the bounds of the school. He is remembered with the Unselfish Service Award.

This award recognizes that student who has given the most of himself or herself to others and to the ideals of the Academy.

Laken Danielle Dennis

Anne Morgan Cousins Grade 11 Christopher Scott Simmons, Jr. Megan Alexander Thompson

The McLemore Award For Excellence In Teaching This award, given in honor of Mr. Price C. McLemore, a member of the Board of Founders of The Montgomery Academy, is presented annually to an outstanding

teacher. This teacher is selected by his or her peers, and the recipient is a representative of the Academy’s ideal of pursuing excellence in teaching. This teacher instills in his or her students not only knowledge, but also a love of learning, exemplifying the best of the profession.

Rebecca Morrow Snellgrove The James David Smith Award The James David Smith Award for Character is given by the Class of 2002 to honor their friend, David Smith, a member of the Class of 2001, who died tragically during his freshman year at college. This award commemorates David’s “true to yourself” character and is given to that senior who, through a vote of his or her peers, is felt to best exemplify the strong moral character, sense of responsibility, and standards of conduct that The Montgomery Academy tries to instill in all of its students.

The Betty Trawick McCutchin Award

Headmaster’s Award For The Pursuit Of Excellence

This award received its initial funding from the Class of 2006, many of whose members flourished within the Lower School environment that was the product of Betty McCutchin’s vision.

This is awarded annually by the Head of School to members of the graduating class whose integrity, attitude, and commitment–regardless of achievement– seem to represent best the Academy’s original and enduring value: the pursuit of excellence. In short, the award is intended to honor not just the destination, but the quality of the journey.

Mrs. McCutchin, Director of the Academy’s Lower School from 1979 until her retirement in 2000, believed deeply in the promise of healthy, balanced, hardworking children whose development could be built upon a foundation of certain key values: perseverance, motivation, personal responsibility, and integrity.

Garrett Alexandra Barnes

Samuel Wallace McLain

The award is given annually by the Head of School, Associate Head of School, and the Division Directors to that senior who has, over the course of his or her career at the Academy, best embodied those values.

Ann Mathews Hester

William Braswell Haynes

Cum Laude Induction Since 1969 Montgomery Academy has honored academic excellence by awarding membership in the Cum Laude Society to its highest-achieving students.

Traditionally the induction ceremony has been part of Awards Night at the end of the school year. This year, however, the Academy has begun a new tradition: dedicating an entire assembly to honoring our school’s most accomplished scholars.

Cum Laude membership is earned by the top 20% of the senior class and the top 10% of the junior class each year. Cum Laude is thus more selective than the better-known National Honor Society, which awards membership to all students whose grades fall within a certain range. Only three schools in Alabama have Cum Laude Chapters.

Seated from left to right: Julie Yoon, Garrett Barnes, Lilla Bea Granger, Miso Kim, Anne Louise Pass, Jacqueline Lee, Gaun Lee Standing left to right: Michael Choi, Cody Jones, Rachel Warwick, Scott Simmons, Lillian Roth, Sam LaPlatney, Elizabeth Kelly, William Haynes, Ann Hester, John Ahn, Rachel Lee, and William West

The President of the Montgomery Academy chapter of Cum Laude is Melissa Anderson; the Secretary is Betty Saunders.

Juniors and Seniors inducted were: Jeong Hyun Ahn, Garrett Alexandra Barnes, Min Seong Choi, Lilla Beatrice Granger, William Braswell Haynes, Ann Mathews Hester, Cody Anderson Jones, Elizabeth Nichole Kelly, Miso Kim, Sam James LaPlatney, Gaun Lee, Junghyun Lee, Rachel Harrison Lee, Anne Louise Pass, Lillian Rebecca Roth, Christopher Scott Simmons, Rachel Ashlyn Warwick, William Cameron West and Yea Won Yoon.

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SPEECH & DEBATE Captures 14th State

by Cheryl McKiearnan

22 Visions - Summer 2014

This April, led by Jay Rye and Kris Hall, The Montgomery Academy Speech and Debate team captured its 14th state championship since the program began in 1991. Only two schools on the country have earned more state titles. In addition, six students qualified to compete at the national tournament in Kansas City this June.

How does this kind of record come about? How does a program compile a list of accomplishments as extensive as the one accompanying this article? What process precedes those brief, intense moments when the judges are watching and listening? A long period of preparation and practice is behind every tournament event; students refine and refine their presentations and arguments, and then refine them again.

This year a total of 80 MA students competed at various levels and in many kinds of events. Each student enrolled in a forensics course must participate in at least three tournaments per semester. These may be at the local, state, regional or national level, or a mixture of the four. Typically students starting out in the program try many different kinds of events before settling on one or two that suit them and their talents. It is during their second year that most speech and debate students begin to specialize in debate or acting events.

On August 15 of every year the National Speech and Debate Association announces the topics that debaters will address at tournaments during September and October. Topics for subsequent periods are released in October, January and March. After defining and discussing the topics in class and discussing general pro and con arguments, debaters go to work in earnest. They research all aspects of the subject exhaustively. To prepare for a tournament they must be equally adept at arguing both sides of an issue. They neither know nor can choose in advance which side they will be defending. After putting together their cases, students go through many practice rounds in class. When at last they compete in a tournament, students use the feedback they receive to perfect the substance of their cases and their strategies in presenting them. Though there is no such thing as too much information, knowledge or research, the fact is that only so much can be of real use in a debate round. Thus students have to be judicious in choosing what will be most relevant and expedient. Analytical skill and the ability to focus are paramount in debate—effective speaking is only one of the many abilities that a debater must develop in order to succeed.

The process leading to success for students who choose acting events is equally long and exacting.

They begin the school year by reading extensively, searching drama, prose and poetry for passages to perform. Some events allow the use of a script; for others the material must be memorized. Either way, hours of reading and rereading are behind every 10-minute performance. Once a piece is chosen at the beginning of the semester, it is performed at tournaments until the end of the term. Though there are many arresting excerpts from a countless array of works that may intrigue a performer, it is actually quite difficult for him or her or find the piece that is the best fit. If a piece and a performer don’t click at an early tournament, the search for the perfect material will have to be resumed. Once the match seems to be made, a student considers possible back stories and contexts for the character whose words he or she is speaking. This deepens and gives added dimension to the performance.

Many of MA’s most successful speech and debate students have been involved in the program since they became eligible to take a forensics course in 7th grade; there are dynastic debate families represented by siblings for years on end. By the same token, a large number of students become involved late in their high school careers and find that they have a knack for speaking effectively and the discipline to ensure that what they say has substance and meaning. There is no single type of student that is more likely than another to do well in the program. Introverts and extroverts are equally likely to shine at any given event. What is certain, given 14 state championships in 23 years, is that MA students have the drive, talent, discipline and enthusiasm it takes to win.

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Celebrating an

aMAzing YEAR

1

Lower School Art teacher Bee Lee Tullos received the Fund for Teachers grant and will spend a month in India this summer

2

Jay Rye elected to National Speech & Debate National Board of Directors (a four-year term)

3

Successfully launched an interactive Middle School interdisciplinary unit: Clash of the Colonies

4

Third Grade students earned First Place Nationally in the WordMasters competition

5

Donated $7,000 to Habitat for Humanity through the H.E.A.R.T. club.

6

Middle School Chorus was selected to perform at the 2014 Alabama Music Educators Association conference

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Upper School Chorus was selected to perform at the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Southern Division conference in Jacksonville, Florida

7

Upper School Art students painted portraits of twenty-one Cambodian orphans through The Memory Project, an international outreach program

8

Celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Christmas Pageant

9

Seventh and Eighth Grade students visited Washington, D.C. and the surrounding area

10

Rising seniors concluded Philanthropy 101, a summer course that provides an in-depth study of charitable and non-profit organizations in our community. The class was created to honor the life of the late William J. Samford, Jr., and is made possible through funding from The W. James Samford, Jr. Foundation.

11

7 1

2 8

9

3

10

4

5

6

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1125

Another

By Anthony McCall

EXCELLENT

ATHLETIC YEAR The 2013-14 school year was yet another fruitful one for The Montgomery Academy Athletic Department at each level (Middle School, Junior Varsity, Varsity) of competition. 70% of the senior class participated on a Varsity team, providing the stability and leadership needed to sustain the competitive edge we have enjoyed in recent years. Our student athletes afforded us the opportunity to witness record setting performances on the courts, playing fields, and track.

The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) presented 16 state championship trophies in Class 2A and Montgomery Academy received six, along with three runner-up trophies. The AHSAA also sponsors eight All-Star games each summer; this year Montgomery Academy will be represented in five, more than any other school in the River Region. In addition, the Athletic Department was ranked #1 in the state (1A-6A) for the fall season by MaxPreps, a national organization dedicated to researching and promoting high school sports. Although compiling wins add to the school’s tradition and legacy in athletics, we still contend that the relationships established between our coaches and athletes, and the life lessons provided to our student-athletes, are the most essential elements of our program. As we conclude this rewarding school year, we are hoping its high morale and enthusiasm will catapult us into another successful year of athletic competition.

Montgomery Academy athletes participating in 2014 All-Star games are (from left to right): Brenna Katz (soccer), Justin Woolfolk (football), Cody Jones (soccer), Josh Thomas (basketball), Jillian Tinglin (volleyball), and Frances Freeman (volleyball).

26 Visions - Summer 2014

By Michael Floyd

A SEASON OF

By MICHAEL FLOYD

CHAMPIONS Girls Track & Field Repeat State Champions

The Montgomery Academy Girls Track & Field team completed one of its most successful seasons repeating as state champions. The team was simply dominant. After the first day of competition, the girls team built a 30-point lead over the second place team and never looked back, winning the state meet by 60 points. MA had great athletes in every event at the state meet and placed at least two scoring athletes in eight events:

Taylor Gerard (1st), Kaylee Quinn (2nd) Taylor Gerard (1st), Kaylee Quinn (4th) Taylor Gerard (2nd), Elizabeth McGowin (2nd), Emily Pierce (8th) Kayla White (1st), Gracie Trulove (2nd), Laurel Buettner (6th) Jade Brooks (2nd), Kayla White (3rd)

Kacky Starke (1st), Sarah Payne (2nd)

Kayla White (2nd), Sarah Payne (8th)

Kayla White (4th), Laurel Buettner (6th)

The relay teams proved to be a strength as well. The 4x800 team of Tara Katz, Elizabeth McGowin, Kaylee Quinn and Emily Pierce as well as the 4x400 relay team of Talya Whyte, Maclou Dillon, Laurel Buettner and Taylor Gerard took home state championships. The 4x100 relay, made up of freshmen Jade Brooks, Talya Whyte and Laurel Buettner and eighth grader Ryan Ford finished third in the event.

Jennie Austin rounded out the team’s scoring by placing fifth in the 100 high hurdles and eighth in the 300m hurdles.

The Montgomery Academy’s 2014 Girls Track & Field team was one of the most well rounded teams the school has ever produced. This was one of largest track teams in school history, which allowed the development of sprinters, jumpers, distance runners and throwers. With a strong mix of athletes from both Upper and Middle school the future is definitely bright.

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Girls Soccer Team Wins

by Elvar Gudjonsson

Though it is hard to believe now, the 2014 spring soccer season began with several challenges for our MA Eagles. Because several players graduated last year, I was met with a very young team at tryouts. As a new coach, I remember thinking how difficult it was to assess the large number of players that attended tryouts while keeping in mind the numerous positions that needed to be filled on the team. However, after the first day of tryouts, I realized why the girls soccer program has such a prestigious reputation. The quality of players was truly unbelievable; I knew right then on day one that we were going to have a successful season. Due to the extraordinary level of skill and potential present during tryouts, I decided to offer all twenty-five girls a spot on the team. I was absolutely delighted when all offers were accepted.

During the first few weeks of practices, I regularly heard the girls discussing last year’s gut-wrenching loss to Randolph in the state championship game.

Undoubtedly, redemption was a major motivator this season; that is, we all wanted the chance to regain the state title. Throughout the season, I was continuously impressed by the level of determination and drive present within each and every player. With a broad spectrum of ages ranging from 7th grade to 12th grade, I must also commend my team for its superior level of maturity and respect. There is an unquestionable amount of potential in our younger players, whom I certainly think benefited from this

28 Visions - Summer 2014

season’s exposure. Although we only had three seniors on the team, they were the core of our team spirit, both on and off the field.

As the playoffs arrived, our nerves were subdued thanks to a streak of excellent soccer playing.

Finally, we were there—we were scheduled to play against Randolph in the state championship game. After an outstanding match against an excellent opponent, we won the title (3-0). I was so impressed and proud of the team and want to extend appreciation to my team for such an unforgettable season. I will never forget my first season with MA! I want to recognize the three graduating seniors: Elizabeth Bear, Garrett Barnes, and Caroline Lester.

They were tremendous leaders and role models for the younger girls; I wish each of them the best of luck in future endeavors. I also want to thank my assistant coach, Kendall Ruth Fant, whose invaluable support contributed to our success. Last, but definitely not least, I want to thank the parents–it is hard to explain how much their kindness and support meant to the team and me.

Boys Tennis Team Captures Fourth

by David Bethea The Varsity Boys Tennis team won its fourth straight 1A - 3A State Championship April 21 - 22 at Lagoon Park. The win marked the 13th overall championship by the Eagles. The guys finished with a 26 - 2 record for the year, with the only losses being to 6A schools. Senior Bonner McLemore won individual titles at #4 Singles and #3 Doubles to help lead MA to the title. Hunter Carroll won at #1 Doubles; Will Spain won at #2 Singles and #2 Doubles; Allen Millsap won at #6 Singles and #2 Doubles; Clayton Muller won at #1 Doubles and James Torbert won at #5 Singles and #3 Doubles. Guy Hood and Bo Torbert, both defending state champions at their

positions, were unable to play due to seasonending injuries. Camp Spain and Porter Simpler were both undefeated in their regular season matches.

Even though the team had many individual state champions, the main focus for players during the entire season was to win the team championship.

The Eagles’ hard work and team unity paid off as they dominated the state tournament with 74 points, while the second place team scored only 34 points. The future looks bright as the team loses only two players, Seniors Bonner McLemore and Guy Hood.

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Eagle Day 2014 30 Visions - Summer 2014

Eagle Day 2014

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Class Notes

Class Notes 1989 Laurie Hughes Applegate and her husband, Alex, welcomed their daughter, Annalise Nicole, on January 28, 2014.

1994 Mike Crouch and his wife, Melinda, joyfully announce the birth of their daughter, Abigail Elyse, on February 24, 2014.

Justin Saunders and his wife, Tammy, are pleased to announce the birth of their son, Tanner Stanley, born April 4, 2014.

Katie Cumbus Shute and her husband, Jesse, are thrilled to announce the birth of their daughter, Evelyn Virginia. Evelyn was born on March 24, 2014. She joins her big brother, Walker, who is 2 years old

1998 Emily Kohn and Reade Taylor were married on May 10, 2014, in Alys Beach, Florida.

The couple resides in Birmingham, Alabama.

1995 William Gordon and his wife, Garman, are excited to have a second beautiful daughter! Rhoades Lovelace was born on April 23, 2014.

EMILY KOHN TAYLOR

1996 Katherine Bear Rogers and her husband, Gayle, are thrilled that their daughter, Emiline “Millie” Worth, was born on April 11, 2014.

David Kemp and his wife, Ashley, announce the birth of their son, Harry, on April 10.

Harry joins big brother, Will, and big sister, Mary Whitman.

Ashley Harris Warnock published a book, Southern Mothers, which is comprised of photos of mothers and children from her client photo shoots in 2012 and 2013.

Ashley’s hope is to build on this each year.

DAVID KEMP

Jennifer Turner House and her husband, Alan, are excited to announce the birth of their daughter, Ella Mae, born on March 27, 2014.

1999 Blakeley Winslow recently graduated from seminary and was accepted by the North American Mission Board to be a campus missionary, serving through the Mission Service Corps branch. He is currently serving in Boulder, Colorado at the University of Colorado Boulder.

2000 Andrew Martin Barnes made his debut into this world on February 28, 2014. He is the son of Martin Barnes and his wife, Lauren.

1997

Alexis Boozer and Maury Sterling were married on May 10, 2014, at Stanford Sierra Camp in Fallen Leaf Lake, California.

Andrea Hutchinson Champion and her husband, Sam, are excited to announce the birth of their son, John Mills, on February 10, 2014.

Elizabeth “Lizzie” Tanner Clement was born on March 17, 2014. She is the daughter of Anne Rennecamp Clement and her husband, Wesley.

32 Visions - Summer 2014

ALEXIS BOOZER STERLING

Class Notes Erin Kromis Connolly and her husband, Patrick, are excited to announce the birth of their daughter, Anne “Annie” Robin on March 10, 2014.

Will Cunningham and Searcy Yoder were united in marriage on May 10, 2014, in Montgomery with high school friend of the groom, Patrick Hall ’00, officiating.

Celeste May and Greg Pitts were married on May 3, 2014.

2003 Jason Coleman and Claire Bernstein were married on May 3, 2014. The happy couple currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee.

Meredith Frazer and Brian Abraham were married on May 19, 2014. The joyful couple resides in Memphis, Tennessee.

2004

Meghan Dorand Roberts and her husband, Ben, welcomed their daughter, Amelie Rose, born on April 6, 2014.

Caudill Miller and his wife, Jamie Grace, welcomed their baby girl, Emma Reese, to the world on March 21, 2014.

Kristin Bentley Smith and her husband, Andrew, joyfully announce the birth of their daughter, Ashley Armstrong, May 13, 2014.

2001 Stephen Dees and his wife, Anna, welcomed baby girl, Parrish Elizabeth, on March 10, 2014.

Rob Renfroe married Meredith Dismukes at the Hotel Masion Dupuy in New Orleans, Louisiana on March 22, 2014.

2002

ROB RENFROE

Parker Hall married Molly Sartwell on December 21, 2014.

Mary Margaret Kemp Moore and her husband, Zach, welcomed daughter, Nancy Neil “Neilee”, on March 20, 2014.

Ashley Heller Plaugh and her husband, Allen, joyfully announce the birth of the daughter, Emma Rose, on January 30, 2014.

Mallory Dorand Salter and her husband, James, are thrilled to announce the birth of their daughter, Margarete “Molly” Wray, on March 12, 2014. Big brothers, West and Reece, are excited to have a little sister!

CAUDILL MILLER

2005

Michael Franz married Mindy Schwartz on February 22, 2014.

William Rhodes and Meagan Ballard were married on April 12, 2014.

After passing the North Carolina Bar Exam, Nancy Stewart will reside in Charlotte, North Carolina where she will practice law at Hamilton Stephens Steel + Martin, PLLC, focusing on civil and bankruptcy litigation.

2006 Christina Karst and Tyler Camp were married on May 3, 2014, at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, Alabama.

Jenny Hackett and Thomas Sellers were married on May 10, 2014, at the Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Montgomery, Alabama.

The happy couple will reside in Tampa, Florida, where Thomas is completing his medical residency.

JENNIE & THOMAS SELLERS

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Class Notes

Class Notes Trey Holtsford recently graduated from the University of Alabama School of Law, and is an associate attorney in the Montgomery office of Holtsford Gilliland Higgins Hitson & Howard, P.C., specializing in insurance defense litigation.

Ballard Lander and Hunter Smith were united in marriage on Saturday, March 8, 2014.

2010

Jay Doane and his wife, Brooke, were married on April 26, 2014, at First United Methodist Church in Montgomery, Alabama.

Britney Crawford Sellers was named program director for M.D. Connection with Envision 2020.

2007 Alicen Grant graduated from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine on May 6, 2014.

Thomas Tyson and Elizabeth Ratcliffe were married on May 17, 2014, in Birmingham, Alabama.

Anne Poundstone received her Doctor of Pharmacy from the Harrison School of Pharmacy at Auburn University on May 6, 2014. She graduated Magna Cum Laude!

Mark Montiel graduated from Tulane School of Law on May 17, 2014, where he was President of the Student Bar Association. Mark was also awarded the Gary Lawton Fretwell Award for leadership.

BALLARD & HUNTER SMITH

Charlie Holtsford graduated in December from the University of Virginia, with a degree in Economics, and will attend graduate school at Vanderbilt University in the Masters of Finance program.

Lanier Walker graduated from Harvard University and was recently accepted into a two year Master’s program in London offered through the Research Department of the Victoria and Albert Museum and the School of Humanities at the Royal College of Art. Ally Rea became 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force at the ROTC Officers Commissioning Ceremony on May 8, 2014, at Clemson University.

2011

2009

Hamilton Bloom was elected President of the University of Alabama’s Student Government Association for the 2014-2015 school year.

Jonathan Barrington and Caroline Lambert were married on March 15, 2014.

2012

On March 29, 2014, Ian Locklar graduated from basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

Jonathan Moore was accepted to study at the London School of Economics and Political Science this summer.

Abigail Smith and Miquel Maria Pena Escudeiro Santana were married on April 5, 2014, at First United Methodist Church in Montgomery, Alabama.

The couple currently resides in Geneva, Switzerland.

Calling all Academy Alumni!

Have you recently begun an exciting new career, gotten married or had a child? Have you taken any exciting trips? We want to hear about it! Share your news and send us your photos for the upcoming edition of Visions. Email marie_harrington@ montgomeryacademy.org 34 Visions - Summer 2014

Stay Connected: Like us on Facebook Visit us at www. montgomeryacademy. org/alumni to learn about upcoming events and more.

“I do.

With a planned giving strategy

tailored to your needs, you can put your assets to work for The Montgomery Academy, while you and the school share in the benefits. Let the Advancement Office help you and your financial advisors develop a gift plan that meets your financial and philanthropic goals.

”

Young Boozer

For more information on planned giving and gifts to the endowment, call Carolyn Bryan, Director of Advancement

parent of two MA graduates, former Board President and Alabama State Treasurer

carolyn_bryan@montgomeryacademy.org •

334.273.7144

• m o n tg o m e ryac a d e m y. o rg Visions - Summer 2014

35

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2014

The Montgomery Academy admits students of any race, religion, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privilege, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school.

Save the Date • October 10 & 11