2025 JPII Shield Magazine

Editor

The Shield Summer 2025

Jennifer Smith Director of Marketing & Communications

Contributors

Michelle Barber Director of Advancement

Andrea Stilwell Advancement Officer & Alumni Relations

Mark Griffith

Mark Griffith Photography

Jill Hobbs

Jill Hobbs Photography

Gavin Richardson GavoPhoto Photography

How to Reach Us

The Shield Magazine

Pope Saint John Paul II Preparatory School 117 Caldwell Drive Hendersonville, Tennessee 37075 Email: jennifer.smith@jp2prep.org

Facebook & Instagram: @jpiiknights

Our Mission

Inspired by Faith, Pope Saint John Paul II Preparatory School prepares students to be strong in mind, body, character, and spirit for lives of learning and service, according to the Gospel.

On the Cover

Class of 2025 at the Grand Ole Opry House

On this Page

JPII Instrumental Concert

Photo by Jill Hobbs

Photo by Jill Hobbs

from the office of the PRESIDENT

Christ - Above All Things!

Dear JPII Community,

Even as the mission and vision of the school remains the same, the strategic activity driving improvement changes. Our vision statement which lives internally alongside our mission statement motivates us daily: To form young people who love God, self and neighbor, seek truth, serve others, and lead courageously. In a certain sense herein lies the whole educational enterprise of JPII, and our strategic activity must wisely follow the vision.

As president and a parent at JPII, I am awed by the level of care that is given by our staff and faculty. It is their sacrifice that animates our vision and mission. The teacher and staff must model or witness to a life of love to God, self, and others; they must have their compass courageously set on the truths of the Gospel, which leads to a heart oriented toward others. This in turn provides an exemplar to the students who will themselves become living witnesses to Christ in the world, bringing currents of hope and strength into our world.

The witnesses in our school are certainly the primary ingredient to a great school. At the same time the aforementioned strategy must be aligned to the vision and mission and executed with a dogged discipline. We have just ended the fourth quarter of the Vision 2025 strategic plan, and I am pleased that we have completed over thirty small and large goals. There have been sixteen larger quarterly initiatives, and we have hit the mark on fifteen of sixteen. The work of the leadership team and their departments has been laudable. Below are two examples of initiatives that we have completed in the last year a half: There have been four initiatives to get us to the Campus Master Plan and to the beginning of

the Capital Campaign. These began with a steering committee to obtain and analyze constituent feedback in order to begin a list of prioritized campus needs while at the same time selecting the firms needed to create a long term campus master plan. The initiative continued to progress through a feasibility study in tandem with the master plan and now is in the beginning stages of a Capital Campaign. The result is a stunningly beautiful Campus Master Plan that will give direction to the institution for years to come, and we hope by the grace of God motivated donors will be generous toward that vision.

There have been multiple mission-centered initiatives led by Principal Jenifer Dye and Chaplain Father Ohanaka. The staff and teachers have been led through a process to understand what our Church demands of Catholic Schools. Multiple resources have been used by the anchor text is the Holy See’s Teaching on Catholic Schools. This book argues that what makes a school Catholic is that it is inspired by a supernatural vision, founded on Christian Anthropology, animated by communion and community, imbued with a Catholic worldview throughout its curriculum, and sustained by Gospel witness. These ideas have systematized as we set goals according to these markers of Catholic education. Examples include that all staff and teachers set individual spiritual goals explaining how they will grow in Christ, as well as goals as to how our Christian faith will be embedded into each class and department.

While these are examples of major institutional initiatives there exist several smaller goals within departments that drive improvement. Most notably, the Academic Council has led a process to complete

the mapping of each course in reference to curricular standards and continued to refine methodological and pedagogical approaches, both of which are aimed at increasing student learning. The results have been impressive as the spring ACT test data has seen a twopoint jump in the composite, and the class of 2025 ACT composite increased 1.7 points over the last two years.

The two major ingredients of our success have been fidelity to a disciplined strategic process and the grace of God. The board of trustees, under the direction of board president Eddie Pearson, has led our strategic process with quarterly goal setting and review. And the internal leadership team meets weekly and reports on the progress of goals while working through solutions to obstacles. This discipline will continue to allow us to achieve goals, while the grace of God at work through our teachers and staff will continue to animate our community with the love of Christ.

I am humbled to lead a team whose foundation is Christ and expectation is forming the next generation of Saints. This is achieved as the students grow in mind, body, character and spirit as they open their hearts to be loved by God so that they can seek truth, serve others, and lead courageously.

Thank you for your prayers during this exciting time for JPII!

Peace and All Good,

Erick Chittle, Ph.D. President

from the Board of Trustees PRESIDENT

JPII BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Mr. Edward Pearson Jr. President

Ms. Karen Phillips President Delegate

Mrs. Angela Bagsby

Chair of Academics & Mission Committee

Mrs. Sharon Edwards

Chair of Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee

Mr. Cameron Goss

Chair of Admissions & Marketing Committee

Mr. Chris Meffe

Chair of Development Committee

Father John Sims Baker

Ms. Ashley Fox ‘09

Mr. Alex Isaacson ‘10

Mr. Jonathan Langlois

Mr. Zach Pelka ‘13

Mr. Lucas Pulliza ‘14

Dr. Stewart Stowers

Mr. Terry Wallace

Father Austin Gilstrap, Ex officio

Dear JPII Community,

As chairman of the JPII Board of Trustees twenty years ago, I wrote to the JPII community in celebration of and thanksgiving for all the blessings that poured into the school. We were celebrating a milestone, for our young school had just published its first strategic plan, Vision 2010. The plan was ambitious and called our community of students, parents, faculty, staff and supporters to “put out into the deep for a catch: ‘Duc in altum.,’” as our patron Pope Saint John Paul II reminded us in his Apostolic Letter at the close of the Great Jubilee of the year 2000. Our community’s response to God’s call then and throughout the years has been instrumental in the “catch” which He has manifested in the halls of JPII.

Pope Saint John Paul II Preparatory School now finds itself approaching another milestone, and the echo of the past “Duc in altum” is ringing throughout the community once again. A new and bold strategic plan, Vision 2028, undoubtedly inspired by the Holy Spirit, urges us to move to new depths to encounter Christ: new depths to embrace our recently added and growing Middle School students and families; new depths to live the charisms of our patron Pope Saint John Paul II; new depths to challenge our young people academically, spiritually, and physically through programs taught and coached by an inspired, Christ-filled faculty; and new depths to realize the school’s potential and vision to form young people who love God, self, and neighbor, seek Truth, serve others and lead courageously. Today is not a season of “more of the same.” Instead, it is a time for building, creating, and pursuing more for the kingdom of God. It is once again a season of “Duc in altum.”

I continue to marvel at the impact of this school, both past and present. We have a school with a rich history and a school with a bright future. I have witnessed a school with its first students and a school with thousands of accomplished alumni. We have grown from a school with a beautiful campus and facility to a school with an opportunity to enhance, beautify and expand its physical space. With the school’s current leadership team, the school’s future is bright and in good hands to navigate us to even deeper waters for an even greater “catch.” On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to thank the leadership team for their tireless commitment. I want to thank our faculty and staff for their influence in the hallways, classrooms and fields of competition as they live a beautiful example of Christ’s love for our students. And I want to thank you all for your support and all that you do to further our vision and mission.

God bless,

Mr. Edward Pearson Jr. President, JPII Board of Trustees

Congratulations to the JPII Class of 2025!

The 114 students in the Class of 2025 have been accepted to 131 colleges and universities (listed below) in 36 different states and 2 different countries. They will be attending 47 colleges and universities (in bold) in 21 states.

The Class of 2025 includes 14 athletes who have signed to play their sport at the collegiate level.

In addition, the members of the Class of 2025 volunteered over 10,000 hours of service to communities in Sumner and surrounding counties.

Congratulations to the Pope Saint John Paul II Preparatory School Class of 2025!

Tennessee State University

Tennessee Technological University

University

State University

University

Austin Peay State University Ball State University

Baylor University

Belmont Abbey College

Belmont University

Beloit College

Benedictine College Berry College

Bowie State University

Butler University

Carson-Newman University

Catholic University of America

Central Michigan University

Christian Brothers University

Clemson University

Coastal Carolina University

College of Charleston

Cumberland University

DePaul University

East Tennessee State University

Eckerd College

Elon University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Fisk University

Washington University

University

Southern University

University

Point University

Cross College

University

University Ithaca College

Wesleyan College

University

Lipscomb University Louisiana State University

Loyola Marymount University

Loyola University Chicago Macalester College Marian University

Marquette University Maryville College

Miami University (Oxford)

Michigan State University Middle Tennessee State University

Mississippi State University

Mount Mary University

Northeastern University

State University  Princeton University

Radford University

Rhodes College

Rockhurst University Rollins College

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Rutgers University

Saint Louis University

Saint Vincent College

Samford University

Sewanee: The University of the South Southern Illinois University

Southern Methodist University

Stony Brook University

Temple University

Tennessee College of Applied Technology

Texas Christian University

The College of Wooster

The Ohio State University

The University of Alabama

The University of Tampa

The University of Tennessee (Chattanooga)

The University of Tennessee (Knoxville)

The University of Tennessee (Martin)

Trevecca Nazarene University

United States Military Academy at West Point

University of Alabama

University of Arizona

University of Arkansas

University of Cincinnati

University of Colorado Boulder

University of Dallas

University of Dayton

University of Denver

University of Derby

University of Evansville

University of Florida

University of Georgia

University of Illinois at Chicago

University of Illinois at Springfield

University of Kentucky

University of Louisville

University of Mary University of Michigan

University of Mississippi

University of Montevallo

University of North Carolina at Asheville

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

University of Notre Dame

University of Oklahoma

University of Pittsburgh

University of San Francisco

University of South Carolina

University of Southern California

University of Southern Mississippi

University of Utah

University of Virginia

Vanderbilt University

Villanova University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Volunteer State Community College

Western Carolina University

Western Kentucky University

William & Mary Wofford College

Xavier University of Louisiana

KNIGHT NEWS & notable moments

July 2024

Noah Lim Attends YMCA Governors Conference

Noah Lim ‘25 represented the state of Tennessee at the 2024 YMCA Youth Governors Conference. One student is elected from each state at the Annual Youth in Government Conferences.

JPII Pilgrims attend the National Eucharistic Conference (1)

JPII students and faculty pilgrims attended the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis. Attendees participated in Mass and joined the culmination of the National Eucharistic Procession that converged in Indianapolis after traveling thousands of miles across the four routes in the United States.

Annabella Montini Wins Runner Up Gabriel Award

Annabella Montini ‘25 won runner-up for the prestigious Catholic Media Association Gabriel Awards. She is cohost of “Drippy With Jesus,” a radio show and podcast that began at St. Stephens before moving to the Catholic Pastoral Center. Annabella and her co-hosts discuss religious topics.

August 2024

Lily Ivanov Participates in Bank of America Student Leaders Program

Lily Ivanov ‘25 volunteered at the Tennessee Special Olympics and traveled to Washington, D.C. for the National Student Leaders Summer as part of the Bank of America Student Leaders Program.

Orientation (3)

House Council welcomed new students to their houses during orientation. After being sorted into their houses, the newest Knights enjoyed mini-house games and an ice cream social. The House of John won the mini-house games competition.

Senior Blessing (2)

The Senior Blessing kicked off the first day of school for the 2025 year! Senior students met in the courtyard with traditional balloons and backpacks for a blessing from Father Ohanaka before beginning their final year as JPII students.

Blake Amlicke Competes in Jr. Pan PAC Championships

Blake Amlicke ‘25 competed in the Junior Pan PAC Championships in Australia, earning a silver medal and a spot on the podium in the Boys 100 Backstroke with a second-place time of 55.16, shaving a few tenths off his qualifying time.

Junior Knights at the Knight Walk (4)

Our newest additions to the JPII Knight community, Junior Knights (3rd - 5th grade students), joined in the JPII Football tradition of the Knight Walk, leading the football team to the field!

Father Ohanaka Breaks the Internet

Father Ohanaka broke the internet with his dance moves in the Bishop’s Cup Dance Battle on Instagram with Father Ryan’s Father Phan. From NSYNC to Michael Jackson to The Church Clap, Father O. brought the moves.

College Fair (5)

September 2024

Students explored their post-secondary plans at the JPII College Fair. Over 100 college and university representatives lined the main gym for students to sign mailing lists, pick up materials, and ask questions to begin their next steps in their higher education and career planning.

Brady Green ‘25 9/11 Memorial Tradition

Brady Green ‘25 began planting 300 American flags on our campus in his freshman year to remember the nearly 3000 lives lost on September 11, 2001. As Brady graduates, Dylan Anderson ‘28, plans to continue the flag memorial tradition.

Homecoming Court (6)

Delnora Darden ‘25, escorted by Kamden Days ‘25, was crowned Homecoming Queen. Members of the court include Riley Barrett ‘25, escorted by Coleman Glidewell ‘25, Kaylee Brackmann ‘25, escorted by John Lewis McLeod ‘25, Julia McMurry ‘25, escorted by Greyson Calonge ‘25, Khamea Matton ‘26, escorted by Gavin Petrocci ‘26, Jayna Ritchie ‘26, escorted by Emeri Langlois ‘26, Annie Wood ‘27, escorted by Brayden Dyer ‘27, and Jenna Byrum ‘28, escorted by James Lee ‘28.

National Merit Competition Semifinalists (7)

Erin Rieck ‘25 and Thomas Arrender ‘25 earned recognition in the National Merit Competition as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists. They both went on to become Finalists in the competition.

October 2024

Service Fair (8)

The annual JPII Service Fair gave local nonprofit organizations and student service leaders the ability to connect with students. In turn, students were able to ask questions about the missions of each organization as they developed their service learning plan for the year.

Hispanic Heritage Month Trivia

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Spanish World Languages students and teachers put students to the test with Hispanic Heritage Month trivia questions. Correct answers were awarded authentic Hispanic foods, candy, fruits, and desserts.

Pope Week 2024 (9)

The celebration of our namesake’s feast day included daily JPII trivia, a JPII-themed assembly, an allschool Mass celebrated by Bishop Spalding, house competitions, and a Eucharistic procession and adoration with the whole student body.

Amanda Peper Receives Christ the Teacher Award

Amanda Peper was awarded the prestigious 2024 Christ the Teacher Award from the Diocese of Nashville.

Golden Tate Coat Drive

Partnering with JPII Alumni Golden Tate ‘07, JPII families donated coats, hats, and gloves to the Golden Future Foundation to supply winter coats to families in need in the Nashville community.

knight news & notable moments

November 2024

Fall Play (1)

The JPII Theatere Department presented three performances of Our Town as the fall production.

6th Grade Trip (2)

The sixth-grade class took a two-day trip to Crossville to participate in community building and educational activities at the Clyde M. York 4-H Center.

Veterans Day

JPII students decorated the doors of faculty and staff, recognizing those who had served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Students showed appreciation to those who held the virtues of sacrifice, courage, and selflessness exemplified by men and women who serve in the military.

Ladies of Charity PB & J Drive

Students supported the Ladies of Charity by pledging 200 donations of both peanut butter and jelly. JPII students donated an amazing 1,112 containers of peanut butter and jelly!

Fall Athletic Signing Day

The following members of the class of 2025 signed to continue their sport at the collegiate level: Blake Amlicke, Will Arbuckle, Blane Borum, Ansley Rice, and Nate Webb.

Celebration 2024 (6)

Celebration ‘24 took place on November 9. It was a fantastic evening with incredible support for the JPII mission from all guests who came to our largest fundraiser of the year.

National Honor Society Induction

Twenty-one new students were inducted into the National Honor Society after meeting the grade criteria and displaying the four pillars of leadership, service, scholarship, and character.

Junior and Senior Faith Retreat

Junior and senior students traveled to local partner nonprofit organizations and the Catholic Pastoral Center to grow in their faith, give back through service, and foster long-lasting relationships with their classmates.

December 2024

Christmas Concerts (3 & 4)

The JPII Instrumental and Choral concerts took place during the Christmas season, showcasing the talents of all middle school and high school bands and choirs in celebration of the holidays.

Reconciliation

The Advent Reconciliation service brought many diocesan priests and Bishop Spalding to campus to offer the Sacrament of Reconciliation to students.

Young Alumni Luncheon (5)

AlumKnights from the classes of 2014 - 2024 were invited to campus for the annual Young Alumni Christmas luncheon.

Middle School Theatere Showcase

Middle school students presented performances that ranged from Wild West love stories and behind the scenes reenactment of Oceans 11 to Greek Mythology from the perspective of an 8th grade boy.

January 2025

Hockey Competes in the First Ever Rock Castle Cup

The JPII Hockey team competed against the Hendersonville Commandos in the first ever Rock Castle Cup. The Knights came out victorious in a 5 - 4 final result.

Coming Home Court (7)

Drew Price ‘25, escorted by Grace Woods ‘25, was crowned Coming Home King. Other members of the court included John Lewis McLeod ‘25, escorted by Kaylee Brackmann ‘25, Zander Palmer ‘25, escorted by Briana Acevedo-Lopez ‘25, Merrick Wermus ‘26, escorted by Reagan May ‘26, Caden Do ‘27, escorted by Carissa Burval ‘27, and Chip Englander ‘28, escorted by Carra Smits ‘28.

Voices uKnighted and Yale A Capella Visit (8)

Voices uKnighted welcomed Yale A Capella group

Yale Out of the Blue to JPII for a partnered special presentation and workshop. During their visit, the group listened to Voices uKnighted and provided invaluable feedback to help further the Knights’ vocal skills.

Catholic Schools Week All Schools Mass (12)

JPII was proudly represented by a group of students at the All-Schools Mas at the Catholic Pastoral Center during Catholic Schools Week.

100 Wrestling Wins

Jordan Crouch ‘26 hit the 100 wrestling win mark, joining fellow teammate Andrew Connow ‘25 as the only two juniors to ever hit the 100 win mark.

February 2025

Community Knight and KAC Chili Cook Off (11)

The annual KAC Chili Cook Off took place on the same evening as Community Knight, bringing current and future Knights together for an evening of basketball and delicious food. Congratulations to bowling, golf, wrestling, football and basketball for walking away with the awards of the evening.

Knights Wrestling Finishes 3rd in State

The JPII Wrestling Team finished 3rd in the state as a team at the State Dual Wrestling Tournament Championships after being crowned Dual Regional Champions for the first time in school history!

Chinese

Lunar New Year

The Chinese Language students celebrated Chinese Lunar New Year with an all-school festival complete with traditional games, foods, decorating, and craft making.

1000 Point Club (9)

Mens basketball player Trey Pearson ‘26 joined the 1000 point club.

Indoor Olympic Recurve State Championship (10)

Hudson Nitsch ‘26 won the Indoor Olympic Recurve State Championship.

Spring Athletic Signing

The following members of the class of 2025 signed to continue their sport at the collegiate level: Thomas Arender, Caleb Hallock, Claire Mewbourne, John Schaefer, Sam Spicer, and Preston Turner.

knight news & notable moments

Spring Musical (1)

The JPII Theatere Department presented three performances of The Phantom of the Opera as the spring production.

Black History Month Community Leader Mary Malone

JPII students celebrated Black History Month by honoring African American leaders in their community. Local community leader, Mary Malone, educated students on the history of Union High School in Gallatin.

March 2025

Spring Break Trip to Spain (6)

Students immersed themselves in the vibrant culture of Spain over spring break. Their days were filled taking in the beauty of the Spain countryside, marveling at the historic landmarks, and savoring local cuisine.

8th-Grade Class Trip (2)

8th graders took a class trip to Washington, D.C. where they learned about history and the government.

9th and 10th Grade Service Retreat

Freshmen and sophomore students served meals, sorted hygiene products, and tackled hands-on projects to support nonprofits in Middle Tennessee communities.

Monthaven Art Show

JPII visual art students’ artwork was recognized at the Monthaven Arts Show: Anna Grace Tabor ‘25, Lizzie Nowell ‘25, Matthew Sikes ‘26, Reese Davidson ‘27, Lily

Blood Drive

Campus Ministry sponsored the annual Blood Drive of the year with the assistance of the American Red Cross.

April 2025

Caldwell in Color (3)

Mrs. Del Valle, with the help of National Honor Society, organized the Caldwell in Color - Color Run, with all proceeds going to the Jason Foundation.

STEM Day and Spring House Games (4)

During the morning STEM day activities, students explored careers, learned about animals, presented business plans for funding, experienced culture through dance, language, art, and food, and considered the relationship between theology and science, among many other activities. In the afternoon, all six houses competed in various competitions to gain points towards the prestigious House Cup.

7th Grade Class Trip (5)

7th graders enjoyed a class trip to the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont in Townsend, Tennessee.

Junior Ring Mass (7)

The juniors enjoyed one of our favorite JPII traditions when they celebrated Junior Ring Mass together, which marked the beginning of their leadership as rising seniors.

Mauthe ‘27, Claire Kurtzman ‘28, Cora Smelcer ‘29, Isla Smith ‘29, Sophie Morris ‘29, Carson Valente ‘29, Lilli Li ‘30.

Divine Mercy Chaplet

The JPII student body, faculty, and staff congregated in the auditorium to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet for the passing of Pope Francis.

2025 House Cup Winners (10)

The House of Peter delivered an amazing comeback from last place to winners of the House Cup! Congratulations, House of Peter! Red hot, red house!

May 2025

Marian Consecration (8)

On May 7, Fr. Ohanaka consecrated the school to Mary at the end of all-school Mass to remind the student body that their path to Christ can be guided by Mary’s example of love and service.

Late Spring Athletic Signing

The following members of the class of 2025 signed to continue their sport at the collegiate level: Delnora Darden, Kamden Days, Andrew Monfette, and Zander Palmer.

Spring Confirmation (9)

In addition to 8th graders who received the Sacrament of Confirmation, ten members of the JPII community were confirmed during an all-school Mass.

Pope Leo XIV

The JPII community gathered as a student body to welcome the newly elected Pope and Holy Father Pope Leo XIV.

Most Inspirational Teachers and Coaches (11)

Several teachers and coaches were recognized as “most inspirational” through student voting at the end of the year. CJ Foster was voted Most Inspirational High School Coach; Mr. Joshua Strope was voted Most Inspirational High School Teacher; Mr. Arynn Powers was voted Most Inspirational Middle School Teacher; and Mrs. Emily Clavin was voted Most Inspirational Middle School Coach.

Commencement Weekend

The Class of 2025 celebrated their achievements during an incredible week that included Senior Walk, Senior Honors Night, Baccalaureate, Graduation, and Project Graduation. (Honor graduates can be found on page 17.)

Excellence in Teaching Awards

Each year, faculty members vote to recognize their peers with awards that reflect excellence in teaching, and staff with awards for their service to the school. This year, the JPII Pillar of Support Awards were given to Receptionist Mrs. Shanon Baldini and Assistant to Student Life Mrs. Connie Kelley. The Green Apple Award for teachers with less than five years experience went to high school math teacher Ms. Autumn Edwards and middle school theology teacher Ms. Alleyxa Heisserer. The Excellence in Teaching Awards went to high school Spanish teacher and World Language Department Chair Mr. Jim Elfers and middle school science teacher Mrs. Kelly Smelcer. The Spirit of JPII Award was given to Mrs. Jayne Tuerff.

Retirements (12)

Mrs. Jayne Tuerff and Mr. Bob Page officially retired from teaching at the end of this school year.

Building on the Cornerstone

Strategic planning leads to a bold vision for the future of JPII.

Every institution reaches pivotal moments — inflection points that call us to both honor the past and boldly shape the future. At JPII, we believe we stand at such a moment today. With our debt fully retired in 2023, a clear strategic plan in process, and a community deeply rooted in faith, we are poised to embark on the most ambitious and transformative chapter in our school’s 24-year history.

As we reflect on our founding and the original vision of Ann and Monroe Carell, who were inspired by their encounter with Saint John Paul II to help establish a Catholic high school in Middle Tennessee, we are reminded that JPII has always been about the “more.” More than academics alone, more than athletics, more than fine arts, we are about forming young people in mind, body, character, and spirit, for lives of learning and service, and most importantly, to know and love Christ.

“In a world fixated on the material and temporal, we proclaim a vision grounded in the eternal and sacramental.”

But even more deeply, we understand that this formation is not simply preparation for college or career; it is preparation for eternity. Students also realize their role through participation in the Church’s mission to sanctify the world. JPII exists to form students in the truth that they are eternal souls called to holiness, service, and courageous leadership. In a world increasingly fixated on the material and temporal, we proclaim a vision grounded in the eternal and sacramental.

Today, we carry that legacy forward through a unifying plan that includes three foundational efforts: Vision 2028, our five-year strategic plan; the JPII Campus Master Plan, which provides the architectural and functional roadmap for our school’s next evolution; and Building Together, Transforming Forever, a capital campaign to bring these visions to life.

Vision 2028: Strategic Priorities Inspired by Faith

Our new vision statement, “To form young people who love God, self, and neighbor, seek Truth, serve others, and lead courageously,” was developed after much collaboration. Further research, studies, and collaboration with more than 1,400 members of our school community culminated in the strategic plan Vision 2028, which identifies five core priorities for the future of the JPII community:

Mission and Catholic Identity

We remain committed to a deeply Catholic culture, rooted in sacramental life and inspired by the witness of our namesake, Saint John Paul II. Our strategic initiatives include expanding devotional opportunities, integrating faith into all programming, and fostering a welcoming environment where all students are valued and loved. Every educator at JPII teaches with a supernatural vision, understanding that true education is one soul reaching out to another. The faith is not simply taught; it is encountered in the daily life of the school, especially in our growing devotion to the Eucharist and the prayerful use of our chapel, which has become a place where dozens of students regularly light candles and sit quietly with Christ.

Campus Enhancement

Recognizing the need for responsible stewardship, we are implementing a prioritized list of improvements to our existing campus, alongside a Campus Master Plan that accommodates both current programmatic needs and future growth.

Community Development

We are deepening engagement with alumni, parents, local churches, and young people through new events and programs, enhanced alumni engagement, and meaningful opportunities for fellowship with our community.

Culture of Excellence

We continue to pursue academic, artistic, and athletic excellence by meeting the needs of the whole student and investing in faculty development, while maintaining high expectations and authentic care for every learner. True excellence is more than achievement: it is virtue in action.

Financial Strength

We are focused on long-term sustainability by growing our endowment, expanding financial aid, and ensuring that more qualified students have access to a JPII education, regardless of financial circumstance.

The JPII Campus Master Plan: Honoring Beauty, Serving Mission

The architectural heart of our future lies in the JPII Campus Master Plan, a vision shaped by 15 months of research, planning, and prayerful consultation. Honoring our school’s original design, which was modeled after Bernini’s piazza in Vatican City, the master plan reflects our core values while addressing real and growing needs. Our initial priorities include the following:

Catholic and Christian Beauty

Enhancements to our chapel, new outdoor spaces like a Rosary walk and amphitheater, and art installations will visually express our Catholic identity and invite deeper spiritual reflection. These sacred spaces serve our mission to help students encounter the supernatural and grow in community and personal devotion.

Academic Expansion

We plan to build 20–22 new classrooms, cutting-edge labs, and applied engineering spaces to support our growing programs, including middle school, science, and fine arts.

(continued on next page)

Program Growth

With the addition of middle school students in 2021, programs were added that require additional classroom and athletic spaces.

Catholic Beauty

Our community loves to congregate in beautiful spaces, including in the shadow of our namesake. Offering students additional spaces to enhance opportunities for fellowship and faith formation is essential as our community expands.

(continued from previous page)

Fine Arts Facilities

A new Fine Arts Center will include sunlit visual art studios, improved acoustics for music, a second-floor gallery, and additional classroom space.

Athletic Expansion

With 70% of students participating in athletics, new competition and practice facilities, locker rooms, and a field house are planned, along with major upgrades to current gyms, fields, courts, and training areas.

Campus Upgrades

Renovations to existing classrooms, bathrooms, and informal student areas will ensure a welcoming, functional, and beautiful environment.

Building Together, Transforming Forever: The Capital Campaign

To bring these dreams into reality, we are launching the Building Together, Transforming Forever capital campaign in the early fall 2025. This effort will raise funds to support our most immediate and future facility needs, the beautification and spiritual enhancement of our campus, and a growing scholarship endowment to increase access to Catholic education.

More than a financial effort, the campaign is a call to prayer, sacrifice, and stewardship. As Saint John Paul II called young people to become “disciples of Christ who feel responsible for transforming social, political, economic, and cultural reality,” we call our entire community, alumni, parents, benefactors, and friends, to help us build a school that prepares such disciples. In this new Apostolic Age, where the Church is called to re-evangelize a culture that has lost its sacred vision, JPII stands ready to be a light in the darkness.

JPII Campus Master Plan

04. Entrance, Office, and

Commons: The expanded front of the school offers collaborative study spaces, community areas, timeless literature, additional offices, and a welcoming entrance that honors our namesake and heritage.

01. Fine Arts Center: Features two large visual art studios with courtyard views, a mezzanine art exhibit space, and a covered outdoor courtyard by the dining hall.

02. Moments of Catholic Beauty: By surrounding students with Catholic beauty, we foster awe, highlight creation, and deepen faith. The new entrance and driveway showcase the natural landscape and moments of spiritual reflection.

03. Walking Trail: A scenic trail surrounds the campus, blending nature with faith through features like the Christocentric prayer garden and Rosary walk.

Student

A Shining City on a Hill

Since our founding, JPII has been proclaimed a “Shining City on the Hill,” a place where the light of faith illuminates the pursuit of truth, service, and excellence. As we look to our next chapter, we do so with deep gratitude for those who came before and bold confidence in God’s Providence.

We invite you to pray for our mission, support our campaign, and walk with us as we build a future rooted in faith, formed by vision, and destined to transform lives — forever.

Saint John Paul II, pray for us!

For more information about participating in the Building Together, Transforming Forever Campaign, please contact Director of Advancement Michelle Barber (michelle.barber@jp2prep.org).

To view the entire Strategic Plan or Campus Master Plan, please visit our website (www.jp2prep.org/about).

Please join our efforts by praying for the JPII Capital Campaign.

God our Father, You are the cornerstone on which our community is founded. We give you thanks for the legacy of our school and for the bright future you have in store for us.

We ask for your blessing as we embark on the next chapter of our journey.

Bless the foundation on which this school was built. Bless the building as it expands and grows to fit the needs of our community.

Bless the students whom you wrap in your embrace. May we always be centered on you, the source of all that is good, true, and beautiful.

Bless us that as we seek to develop the school, we may likewise strive for the building up of your eternal kingdom. We ask all this through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Saint John Paul II, pray for us.

01. Courtyard: Expanded Bernini-inspired colonnades frame a green space centered on the chapel and Christ, with a terraced courtyard for outdoor Mass, performances, and learning.

02. Enhanced Green Space: Relocating parking creates more green space and tiered seating near athletic fields.

03. Academic Wing Expansion: A new two-story wing adds 20–22 classrooms, science labs, and engineering spaces.

Existing space will support additional visual arts classrooms.

04. Gyms & Fitness Center: A second gym, mezzanine connector. and a two-tier fitness center enhance athletic facilities.

05. Seating & Locker Rooms: Adds 300 seats to the auxiliary gym, new locker rooms, and a walkway to the field house.

06. Athletic Field House: Includes balcony seating, coaches’ offices, locker rooms, and a turfed half-field for indoor practice.

07. Water Feature: A retention pond, created by shifting student parking, adds a unique natural element to campus.

From Classroom to Career with Project-Based Learning

Exploring the Impact of Project-Based Learning at JPII

In a rapidly evolving world, education must do more than prepare students for tests—it must prepare them for life. JPII’s mission has long stated that we prepare students for “lives of learning and service, according to the Gospel.” Project-Based Learning (PBL) is one innovative approach that is helping students move beyond the classroom and engage with real-world problems, skills, and career pathways to prepare them for solving future problems using innovative solutions. As one of the few STEM-designated high schools in Tennessee, JPII challenges teachers to embrace PBL to inspire the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders.

Autumn Edwards, the school’s STEM Coordinator, is one of the driving forces behind this transformation. According to Edwards, PBL isn’t just a method; it’s the key to keeping students engaged and helping them connect classroom lessons with their future careers. “We are one of the few STEMdesignated high schools in the state, and our mission is to show students how what they’re learning not only inspires them to seek truth but also can be applied to real-world careers,” says Edwards. “PBL helps us bring those real-world applications into the classroom.”

The Power of Engaging, Real-World Projects

At the heart of PBL is the idea that students learn best when they are actively involved in solving real problems. Instead of simply working through worksheets or textbook problems, students apply what they’ve learned to a project that has tangible outcomes and relevance.

In Edwards’ geometry class, for example, students tackle the abstract concept of logic and reasoning through a hands-on project: writing letters

to policymakers using syllogisms to strengthen their arguments. “Students come up with a topic that they care about, a policy or a problem, and use math reasoning to present their ideas persuasively,” Edwards explains. “This isn’t just about geometry; it’s about helping students see the power of their voice and how what they’re learning can make a difference in their lives and others’.”

One of Edwards’ favorite projects, however, is the quilt design project in geometry. Students use congruent and similar triangles to design their own quilt patterns. They then present a formal proof of their work to the class. What began as an academic exercise has evolved into a service project, where students make quilts for the community. “What’s incredible is how this project teaches students real-world skills—using x-acto knives, rulers, and sewing machines—skills they’ll use in everyday life,” she says. “They also learn precision, planning, and teamwork, all while deepening their understanding of triangles.”

This ability to blend academic learning with real-world skills is a hallmark of PBL. Whether students are designing quilts or writing policy letters, the connection between their classroom work, service, and careers becomes clear.

Overcoming Challenges and Fostering Engagement

Despite its advantages, PBL isn’t without its challenges. Edwards notes that getting all students on board can be a hurdle. “Some students see it as just another hoop they have to jump through. They don’t always immediately see the value of the projects.” However, Edwards finds that once students see the end product and understand how it connects to real-life applications, their engagement increases. “The

more we can show them how the project relates to their lives, the more excited they get about the process.”

For educators like Eduardo Nunes, who teaches everything from business to history, the benefits of PBL are even more pronounced in career-oriented subjects. “PBL is how I teach,” Nunes says. “In business courses, instead of learning about Excel formulas from a textbook, they learn by solving problems.”

Nunes’ students have tackled projects that simulate real-world business scenarios, like the “Shark Tank” project in his Intro to Business class. “Students work in groups to identify a problem, find a solution, and create a product,” Nunes explains. Ethan Jacob ‘26 and Ross Johnson ‘26, for instance, developed a real business, Super Fantastic Detailing, which now operates with customers and even has a social media presence.

Preparing Students for the Future

Nunes points out that working on group projects teaches students how to collaborate with people they may not have chosen to work with. “In the business world, you’re not always going to pick your team, so learning how to navigate those dynamics is important,” he says.

Moreover, projects like the personal finance assignment in Nunes’ Intro to Business class help students understand the real-world implications of decisions. Students explore topics such as budgeting, credit cards, and investments and are often shocked by the realities of post-graduation life, like the true cost of living in places such as San Diego, for example. “Many of them have never thought about how much it costs to live on an average starting salary. Seeing those realworld costs, and realizing the importance of financial literacy, has a lasting impact,” Nunes explains.

For Edwards and Nunes, these kinds of projects help students discover their passions and connect classroom learning to career pathways they might not have considered otherwise.

PBL in Action: Building a Business Ecosystem

The impact of PBL goes beyond individual projects; it is changing the culture of education at the school. Students can explore aspects of entrepreneurship and many different career paths. “We’re building a business ecosystem here,” Nunes says. “With programs like business incubation and internships, students gain practical experience and learn the skills needed to succeed in the real world, which often helps them figure out their future path after high school.”

One standout initiative is the school’s growing business program, which includes an internship class and a Shark Tank-style competition. Last year, students interned at businesses in fields like law, journalism, and medical industries, gaining critical skills in communication, accountability, and problem-solving.

“These internships teach students how to work in a professional setting,” Edwards notes. “It’s a handson way for them to apply what they’ve learned and build the skills they’ll need in their careers.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of PBL

As JPII looks toward re-designation as a STEM school, there’s a clear vision for the future. “We want to integrate design thinking into every department,” says Edwards. This approach, beginning with an authentic question, researching, and prototyping, is an ideal framework for PBL that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

The Future Begins with Love

Beginning a seven-year journey through the Charisms of JPII

As Pope Saint John Paul II Preparatory School looks toward our twenty-fifth anniversary in a year, we find ourselves standing at a powerful intersection between who we have always been and who we are becoming. The milestone has sparked deep reflection, a journey inward that led us not only to rediscover the foundations of our school’s identity but also to chart a path forward through a set

of guiding virtues rooted in the life and teachings of our namesake, Pope Saint John Paul II. This coming fall, the school will formally unveil seven charisms— spiritual gifts inspired by John Paul II—that will guide our community for decades to come. These charisms are more than virtues; they are the living heartbeat of our mission and the blueprint for shaping students into saints for our time.

A Holy Conversation

The idea began in a simple, spirit-filled conversation with Sr. Elizabeth Anne, O.P..

“Sr. Elizabeth Anne once told me about another school where cornerstone beliefs were carved into the hallway columns,” recalls Principal Jennifer Dye. “She challenged me to look to John Paul II as our inspiration—not just for where we’ve been, but for who we could become. That conversation planted the seed.”

The idea of exploring John Paul II’s charisms took root during a year-long reflection involving faculty, clergy, and students. The faculty read his writings, including excerpts from Witness to Hope, and participated in in-services and discussions. Speakers like Francesca Tentori brought reflections from World Youth Day, and students created artwork inspired by John Paul II for his feast day celebration. Assemblies and homilies explored his life and teachings—especially the theme of hope, which became one of the seven charisms.

Chaplain Father Ohanaka shared his own journey with John Paul II’s story. “I first encountered his biography as a seminarian in Ars, France, during a program called ‘The Rome Experience.’ Hearing his story during those quiet meals was transformative,” Fr. Ohanaka recalls. “Last fall, I revisited his biography to help our students see how his life mirrors the themes we find in Scripture—his love for youth, his message of hope, and his ability to find truth through art and literature. That became a major shift in how our school saw itself.”

Pope Week Celebration Artwork

(above) Visual art student Hudson Nitsch ‘26 created a collage exploring facets of the life of JPII.

(opposite page) Fine Arts Department Chair and visual arts teacher Nick Nitsch created a portrait of JPII with excerpts from his writings as the background image.

From Reflection to Revelation

The process of identifying the charisms was deeply collaborative. Faculty were invited to contribute their insights, resulting in over 500 reflections that were then synthesized into thematic groupings. These were further refined with input from the executive council, academic departments, student groups, and clergy.

What emerged was a sacred list: seven charisms, reflecting both our Catholic identity and the number of grade levels in our school (6–12). Starting next fall, we begin a seven-year cycle, devoting one school year to deeply study, live out, and reflect on a single charism at a time. Once the cycle is complete, it will begin again, so that every student will experience each charism during their time at JPII.

“Education is ultimately about the pursuit of Truth . . . art and literature help us get there, just as science does.”

One particularly memorable homily series even connected John Paul II’s love of literature with The Lord of the Rings, using stories to explore beauty, sacrifice, and truth. “Education is ultimately about the pursuit of Truth,” says Fr. Ohanaka. “Art and literature help us get there, just as science does.”

“These are not just themes,”

Principal Dye explains. “They are a cornerstone. A charism is a gift of the Holy Spirit given for the good of others, and that’s what we believe this school is: a gift to our greater community. Our mission is to recognize the gifts God has given us and to use them for the world.”

The Seven Charisms of JPII

LOVE: The first charism—and the one chosen to launch the cycle—is love. It is more than affection; it is a radical call to see every person as a gift. “So many people in our focus groups were drawn to love,” says Fr. Ohanaka. “It makes sense. John Paul II’s Love and

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Responsibility and Theology of the Body both place love at the center. He taught that the opposite of love is not hate; it’s use.”

MERCY: The sacrificial spirit of mercy calls us to place others’ needs before our wants, echoing Christ’s ultimate act of love.

SOLIDARITY: We are one human family. Solidarity calls us to stand with one another, especially the marginalized, through action and presence.

COURAGE: Inspired by John Paul II’s bold resistance to communism and his tireless advocacy for truth, courage empowers us to fight for what is right, even when it’s hard.

CREATIVITY: As children of a Divine Creator, we are called to co-create—to use our God-given talents to bring beauty, truth, and goodness into the world.

WISDOM: Uniting faith and reason, wisdom helps us discern and follow God’s will in our daily lives, grounding us in truth.

HOPE: Perhaps the most vital virtue for our time, hope lifts our eyes beyond suffering and uncertainty. It is not optimism—it is divine confidence in God’s promises.

Guest Speaker for Faculty In-service

Love First, Because God Is Love

Launching this first year with Love is no accident; it was the most logical, considering the themes we have been exploring over the past couple of years, which include faith and hope.

“As a school, we’re already rooted in faith and hope, but love, authentic love, is foundational,” says Fr. Ohanaka. “To love is to recognize that each of us was created by love, for love. That’s how we build the culture we want at JPII.”

Principal Dye echoes this vision: “If we can teach our students to recognize love as a gift and to live that gift by honoring others, then we’re forming a community where every member sees the worth in themselves and each other.”

Looking Ahead

As the school steps into the next 25 years, these charisms will shape every part of campus life, from classroom discussions to assemblies, from service projects to spiritual formation. Each year, students will encounter these themes in theology, literature, science, and the arts, making them not just words on a wall, but lived experiences.

“We’re creating a culture where students graduate not only well-rounded academically,” says Fr. Ohanaka, “but deeply formed spiritually, ready to be leaders, ready to be saints.”

Principal Dye concludes with a hope for the future: “In seven years, I want every student and teacher to be able to recognize these gifts in themselves and in others. I want us to be a school that knows its mission and lives it joyfully, a community transformed by grace.”

As Pope Saint John Paul II once said, “The future starts today, not tomorrow.” With the foundation of these seven charisms, the future of JPII begins anew, with love.

Dr. Francesca Tentori helped faculty understand more about JPII’s connection to young people as she shared stories of her experiences at World Youth Days. She is pictured here with her daughter’s artwork inspired by World Youth Day.

Student Artwork Inspired by the Life of JPII (left) by Ruthie Earley ‘25 (right) by Lilly Mailander ‘27

CLASS OF 2025 graduating with honors

HONOR GRADUATES PICTURED WITH PRINCIPAL JENNIFER DYE

Mrs. Jennifer Dye, Michael Thole, Genevieve Strickland, Kayla Stanton, Erin Rieck, Molly Olivas, Noah Lim, Lily Ivanov, Izzy Hollman, Addison Hannold, Emma Chittle, Riley Barrett, Thomas Arender, Claudia Angel

HONOR GRADUATES

Addison Hannold, Valedictorian

Erin Rieck, Salutatorian

Noah Lim, Valedictorian

BISHOP KMIEC AWARDS (right)

Erin Rieck & John Lewis McLeod pictured with Bishop Spalding

(left)

Andrew Connow

A Community of Belonging

Inside the Transformative Power of JPII’s Hand in Hand Program

We are living out a profound mission — one that embraces the full dignity of every individual. Since 2004, JPII’s Hand in Hand Options (HIHO) program has opened its doors to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, making Catholic high school education accessible to students who may not otherwise thrive in a traditional college preparatory environment.

More than a program, HIHO is a living testament to what authentic inclusion looks like, one rooted in justice, faith, and the belief that every person has a God-given purpose, as evidenced by the four most recent 2025 graduates from the program: Victoria Griffin, Adaline Hamlin, Ra’Shad Hunter, and Abram Speshock.

“We don’t want it to be the best-kept secret anymore,” said Toni Richards, mother of senior Adaline Hamlin. “This program is transformational, not just for the students in it, but for the entire school community.”

A Full High School Experience

Students in the HIHO program are deeply woven into the fabric of life at JPII. With the support of peer mentors, they attend as many core and elective classes as possible, and their high school experience mirrors that of their typical peers, from joining clubs and sports to leading in the arts, faith life, and student media.

For example, Adaline Hamlin is a vibrant student known for her voice in the women’s choir, her altar service during Mass, and her contributions in yearbook. Adaline is also a celebrated innovator. In 2022, she won the Tennessee State “STEM for All” Award for designing an accessible lunch tray for students with disabilities, and her story was featured on the local news.

“I felt surprised to see my project win the award,” Adaline said. “It made me happy because my whole family is so proud of me.”

Adaline didn’t stop there. From earning an arts honor cord to being elected Prom Queen, she truly

experienced high school to its fullest, something her mother never took for granted.

“At other schools, everyone saw Down syndrome first. At JPII, they saw Adaline,” Richards shared. “The moment we visited, students talked to her. The faculty asked her what she wanted to do. That had never happened before.”

A Culture of Compassion and Confidence

JPII’s HIHO program does more than provide an education; it builds community. Through the Peer

Mentor program, inclusion isn’t just about placing students in the same classroom; it’s about cultivating authentic friendships and mutual respect. For students like Victoria Griffin, this made all the difference.

“Victoria had the chance to be in general education classes and was treated like any other student,” said her mother Malinda Griffin. “The letters she received from her peer buddies each year were so heartfelt. JPII allowed her to fully experience high school.”

Victoria’s passion for visual art was celebrated through her participation in the Arts uKnighted visual arts exhibition. She also joined the cheer team, thanks to her HiHO teacher Kim Shaver, who shared a video of her previous performances with the school’s coach Suzanne Calvin. She was included, encouraged, and empowered every step of the way.

“Art is my passion,” Victoria said. “And my favorite part of JPII was going to class with my friends.”

Media Stars and Campus Leaders

Ra’Shad Hunter found his spotlight on Knights TV, the school’s broadcast program, where he became known for his high energy and infectious joy.

“Knights TV was an avenue for him to share his energy and love with the school,” said Kyle Reynolds, Knights TV adviser. “He’s the kid who walks in and lights up the room.”

Ra’Shad’s mother LaVonda Johnson reflected on the deep sense of community he found at JPII.

“He was bullied in elementary school, but here, he’s

loved, not just by students, but by teachers, staff, and even parents,” she said. “It’s a school where kids are intentionally included. That’s rare.”

Ra’Shad also participated in the gaming club, community service, and even summer camps, helping younger students in athletics. “He’s kind, accepting, and grounded in faith, and this school nurtured those qualities,” his mother added.

Excellence on the Field and Beyond

Abram Speshock, a standout athlete in track and field, exemplifies perseverance. As a four-year member of the team, he threw shot put and discus, improving his performance each year and qualifying for regional competition. He also served as basketball team manager and worked at Publix during high school.

His mother, Tiffany Speshock, described how JPII became a safe place where Abram was truly seen.

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“He wasn’t just included; he was celebrated. I could drop him off at a football game and know he was loved and safe. That’s the kind of peace this community gives you,” she said.

Abram treasured the letters from his peer mentors, keeping them by his bed and reading them nightly. “He became a more joyful and confident person,” his mother said. “That kind of growth is rare, and it’s because JPII understands how to live out the Gospel.”

This fall, Abram will work as a counselor-intraining at Camp Marymount and continue his journey toward becoming a park ranger, a dream made possible by a community that believed in him.

The Broader Impact

The stories of Adaline, Victoria, Ra’Shad, and Abram are more than anecdotes; they’re the heartbeat of the way our school lives its Catholic mission fully. Inclusion at JPII is a justice-centered expression of our faith.

“People ask about the cost of running a program like HIHO,” Richards said. “Yes, it takes more resources. But the return, the compassion, the confidence, the community, is priceless.”

The impact extends beyond the students in the program. Peer mentors gain lifelong skills in empathy and advocacy. Parents witness their children not just survive high school, but thrive. And the community is

reminded that human dignity is not based on ability, but on being created in the image of God.

As Victoria’s mother said, “At JPII, she was never held back. She got to be herself: fully, freely, and faithfully.”

For the HIHO students, graduation may mark the end of high school, but not of community. They plan to stay involved by volunteering at events, participating in alumni activities, and continuing to model what it means to live with joy and purpose.

“I think the biggest gift JPII gave Adaline,” Richards reflected, “was the confidence to know that

her presence matters, not just in the classroom, but in the world.”

HIHO teacher Kim Shaver stated, “The students in our Hand in Hand Program have made a very meaningful and lasting impact on the school community in many significant ways. They have contributed to the overall life of the school within the classroom, clubs, sports, and the arts. Their impact was seen in the everyday moments of connection with others and the mutual respect that defines our school’s spirit.”

And in a world that often struggles to embrace difference, the Hand in Hand Options program at JPII is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when faith, education, love, and community walk together.

For more information about the HIHO program at JPII, please contact HIHO teacher Kim Shaver (kim.shaver@@jp2prep.org).

CLASS OF 2025 ATHLETIC SIGNINGS

One of the most exciting moments in the life of a student-athlete is signing day. Years of hard work have led up to this moment, and since only 7% of high school athletes (about 1 in 13) have the opportunity to play at the next level, this is quite an achievement. In three separate signing days during the 2024-25 school year, 14 student-athletes at JPII signed their letters-of-intent with 12 different colleges/universities to continue their athletic careers. Congratulations to these student-athletes. Go, Knights!

Blake Amlicke University of Virginia Swim

Will Arbuckle Maryville College Football

Blane Borum Christian Brothers University Golf

Thomas Arender Princeton University Cross Country & Track

Preston Turner Kentucky Wesleyan College Football

Ansley Rice Western Kentucky University Soccer

John Schaefer Belmont Abbey University Soccer

Sam Spicer Ball State University Football

Delnora Darden Mount Mary University Volleyball

Kamden Days Christian Brothers University Basketball

Caleb Hallock Kentucky Wesleyan College Football

Claire Mewbourne University of Evansville Swim

Nate Web Belmont University Baseball

Andrew Monfette University of Montevallo Archery

from the office of ADVANCEMENT

by Michelle Barber, Director of Advancement

House Parents Take The Lead: The JPII Fund For Excellence

TheFund For Excellence (FFE) is the cornerstone of JPII’s fundraising efforts, supporting every aspect of daily life at Pope Saint John Paul II Preparatory School. From academics and athletics to arts and campus life, every student, teacher, and coach benefits directly from FFE contributions.

Each year, the FFE is sustained by a generous community of current and alumni parents, students, faculty and staff, grandparents, foundations, and friends of JPII. These gifts bridge the gap between tuition revenue and the actual cost of delivering the JPII experience.

We launched this year’s campaign with our vibrant FFE Kick-Off, hosted by our House Parents and attended by all six houses. Event chairs Dr. Stephen and Catherine Strickland (Stephen ’22, Genevieve ’25, Benjamin ’31, and Siena) reminded donors that JPII is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit—making your donation tax-deductible—and that creating an accessible, highquality education depends on community support. Since 2002, donor participation has been vital to our mission. Early supporters “paid it forward,” and today’s alumni families “pay it back,” helping ensure future generations thrive at JPII.

The FFE is now accepting donations. Visit www.jp2prep.org/give/annual-fund. All donors are recognized in our annual Gratitude Report.

HOUSE OF GREGORY

Dr. Dan Burval & Dr. Roxanne Valentino

HOUSE OF CLEMENT

Mark & Valorie Quarles with Isabella Wilson ‘31

HOUSE OF JOHN Bryan & April Lapinski and Jayson (not pictured) & Mary Beth Tabor

HOUSE OF LEO

Shay & Julie Oliphant (not pictured) and Mathews & Asha Joseph (not pictured). Jessica Shaar ’31 and a cute future Knight hosted the Pius FFE table!

HOUSE OF PETER

Sean (not pictured) & Lisa Stevison and Karen Musacchio

HOUSE OF PIUS

Luke & Sarah Dalske (not pictured), David (not pictured) & Michelle Amlicke, Teresa Frisbie, and Stacy & Danielle Latham (not pictured)

Tate Athletic Skills Camp

& Tate Scholars Program

July 2024

NFLlegend Golden Tate ’07 collaborates with the JPII football program to offer a free athletic skills clinic for rising 3rd – 8th graders each July. Thanks to our sponsors Jim and Kathy Galvin (alumni parents of Jenna ’11 and Jamie ‘15) of Miracle Ford, Tom (former JPII Trustee) and Marcia McCarthy, Kevin and Kathy McNatt (alumni parents to Lillie ‘18), Golden ’07 and Elise Tate, and Coca-Cola Bottling Co. for making the clinic possible. The 2023-2024 football team hosted 14 athletic skills stations, allowing attendees to practice essential skills and best practices. A great time was had by all!

2024 TATE SCHOLARS NAMED

Each year, JPII coaches nominate current student athletes who represent the characteristics of a Tate Scholar. The ideal candidates exhibit a commitment to their team, to making good choices on and off the court/field, and to prioritizing academic pursuits.

The 2024 Tate Scholar recipients included the following athletes (pictured below in this order): Riley Barret ’25 (soccer), Kylee Carman ’26 (basketball, track & field), Caleb Hallock ’25 (wrestling, football, track & field), Courtney Hollins ’26 (volleyball, track & field), Lily Ivanov ’25 ‘(volleyball), and Jaron Talley ’26 (basketball). Congratulations!

action photos by Gavin Richardson

A Knight of Song

Fine Arts Booster Fundraiser

September 2024

The JPII Fine Arts Booster Club (FAB) hosted the annual Knight of Song presented by American Pest Control (Gavin and Erin Richardson, JPII parents). FAB president Chris Szalaj, vice-president Liz Shea, and event chair Mandi Naylor secured a star-studded lineup for the listening pleasure of all in attendance. A packed house enjoyed the show orchestrated by singer/ songwriter and Master of Ceremonies Kenny Foster, who was joined by industry icons – Clint Daniels, Ira Dean, and our very own Joe Denim (JPII parent) – for a festive musical presentation with some humorous notes, to boot! JPII alum Joe McGrath ’11 sponsored a delicious Hattie B’s buffet, not to be outdone by offerings from Half Batch Brewing (Mike and Sue Honious, JPII alumni parents of Ryan ’12 and Mitchell ‘15). We look forward to the next Knight of Song on August 23, 2025.

Diocesan HIHO Golf Tournament

& the KIND Foundation

October 2024

Atthis year’s annual Diocesan Hand In Hand Options Golf Tournament, JPII students served as volunteers. Each year, proceeds from the event, along with generous annual donations from the KIND Foundation, help to support the JPII HIHO program. Kim Shaver, HIHO Teacher and HIHO Department Director, is most appreciative of the funding and notes that “through the generosity of benefactors and community partners, program enhancements are made possible for the benefit of each student enrolled in the program.”

Donations to the HIHO program can be made on the JPII website. www.jp2prep.org/give

Habitat for Humanity Build

the Dugan Family Foundation

October 2024

The Dugan Family Foundation collaborates annually with the JPII Advancement Office to assist in building Habitat for Humanity homes in Davidson and surrounding counties. JPII juniors and seniors, along with their parents, JPII alums, coaches, faculty, and staff picked up hammers and nails to shim doors and baseboards, paintbrushes and painter’s tape to put the finishing touches on trim, and finished the build using brooms and dust pans to prepare the home for inspection. Thank you to Danny and Karen Dugan (Chelsea, Daniel ’10, and Collin ’12) for including JPII on such a meaningful project! We invite everyone in the JPII community to join us on our upcoming build next fall.

Presented by Servpro Celebration 2024

November 2024

We“rolled the dice” this year and took the JPII Celebration ’24, presented by SERVPRO, off campus to the Hendersonville Premiere Center!

A festive night ensued - guests enjoyed dinner by St. Charles Catering, a robust live auction led by auctioneer/JPII parent Stephen Aleman, Juan Alonzo ’08 on the acoustical guitar, gaming and glow golf on the Terry and Cindy Wallace Family (Taylor ’14 and Taryn ’16) Midway, and then danced the night away to tunes by DJ Stacy J & Co.

A special thank you to all who supported the event with sponsorships and auction item contributions, which combined to raise $280,000, making Celebration 2024 one for the record book! Celebration 2025 is set for Saturday, November 8th – so mark your calendars and, if needed, book your sitter now!

Tate Coat, Hat & Glove Drive

the Golden Future Foundation

October 2024

Golden’07 and Elise Tate founded the Golden Future Foundation to support under-served communities. Throughout Golden’s 12-year NFL career, they focused on helping children in marginalized areas. Now back in Middle Tennessee, the Tate family has teamed up with the JPII community to provide coats, hats, and gloves to local children in need. With support from the Advancement Office, Student Life, and House Council, the event inspired an outpouring of generosity—over 500 coats and 1,000 hats and gloves were donated. The Tates were deeply moved, sharing their gratitude: “In Matthew 25:34-40, Jesus praises those who see people in need and respond with love. Thank you to all who participated—you are the face of Christ to those in need.”

December 2024

Adventheld special meaning this year with the addition of a beautiful Nativity scene in the school courtyard, gifted by alumni parents Mark and Patti Deffendall (Jessie ‘07 and Patrick ’09). This creche, now an annual campus tradition, serves as a powerful reminder of the season’s true purpose. Its stunning placement was enhanced by a Christmas tree backdrop from the Jim and Sarah McLeod Family of SANTA’S TREES, decorated by Greg and Jayne Tuerff. The stable, built by the JPII facilities team, Brad McKenzie, and Delana Haduch, was truly fit for The King. At the dedication, Director of Advancement Michelle Barber thanked the Deffendalls for this lasting gift of Catholic beauty. Father Ohanaka blessed both the nativity and the Deffendall family, inviting the school community to gather and pray before the infant Jesus.

Grandparent Celebration

Stations of the Cross

April 2025

All students, faculty, staff and grandparents joined together as a faith community on Holy Thursday to journey together through the Stations of the Cross, written by Theology Department Chair Josh Strope, and led by the JPII Mission and Ministry Class. The experience was enhanced by our student instrumentalist Josh LeMay ‘25 and Gabriel Nardone ‘26 directed by Mark Weakley, Director of Instrumental Music along with the JPII Chamber Choir directed by Director of Choirs Julie Schwarz.

It’s always a “sweet” treat to have our JPII grandparents on campus! After all, grandparents fill up the hearts, minds, and souls of our youth and can nurture them in ways that parents simply cannot. As a matter of fact, grandparents seem to always see us at our best, proudly raving about the antics of their grandchildren! Blessings upon all grandparents who lovingly spoil and snuggle, hug and hope, praise and pamper, boast and brag, for it is the grandchild/ grandparent relationship that is cherished by all!

Grandfather of Annie and Carson Wood, Reverend David Wood (pictured to the right with his granddaughters and wife), reflected on his experience as a grandparent and shared universal truths about the importance of grand-parenthood in his address to the crowd. Reverend Wood went on to say that while all grandparents are proud of their grandchildren, “they are just as proud of their own children who are investing so much love and effort in raising their kids as gifts from God and raising them up in the ways they should go toward a strong relationship with God.” At JPII, we value the beautiful gift of family and all the unique relationships within the family unit. Grandparents Day 2025 was a beautiful celebration, indeed!

alumni FOCUS

Leon Bendix ‘13

Christian Youth Exchange -

Germany

by Andrea Stilwell, Advancement Officer and Alumni Relations

Leon Bendix spent his senior year at JPII (2012-13) through the German student exchange through Christian Youth Exchange - CYE Germany. He was one of four students on campus that year from Germany, and he lived with two host families during his time in Hendersonville: the LeCaves and the Pelletiers (Leon is pictured with Mrs. Pelletier at JPII in 2013 in the bottom left photo). Upon graduating from JPII and returning to Germany, Leon completed his bachelor’s degree and currently works in marketing for employer branding & recruitment. He recently earned his Master’s degree and “had the best possible outcome” on his finals.

Spring 2025 marked his first return back to Hendersonville since high school, a stop that was part of his visit to the United States that included stops in New York City and several locations in the West. It was such a delight and blessing to welcome him and thengirlfriend Jasmin (a nutritionist who works for two German hospitals) for her first trip to the United States. During their two days in Middle Tennessee, they made it a point to visit JPII and reconnect with former teachers and friends. Current physics teacher Brennon LeCave ‘17 continued his family’s hospitality by welcoming Leon & Jasmin on campus (top left photo), and it was wonderful to see them connect 12 years later. Leon’s former teachers Jennifer Smith (English) and Bob Page (Economics) got to spend time visiting with our German friends, and a couple other former teachers sent their greetings, though they weren’t available during the visit.

As exciting as it was to welcome the couple back to campus, little did we know what adventures were in store for them after visiting JPII. From Nashville, their journey took them to California, along the coast from San Francisco down to San Diego, then Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon (even kayaking the Colorado River). Upon returning to Germany, Leon shared that he and Jasmin got engaged at the Grand Canyon three days before heading home and were married at the World Famous Little White Wedding Chapel one day before leaving the United States! They had been dating for almost ten years, which is why

he said they “seized the opportunity.” (Leon and Jasmin’s wedding photo is the top left photo.)

Leon has very fond memories of his year on campus and the opportunities he had through the exchange program. He reflected, “I really enjoyed my return. It felt awesome soaking in the JPII spirit once again. Introducing my former girlfriend (who became my wife two weeks later) to the school that has shaped my life considerably was very special to me. Who knows, maybe twenty years from now, my own children will have the opportunity to visit JPII?!”

Leon also shared that visiting the Pelletiers and meeting up with the LeCaves was a blessing. “I did remember their kindness but was still amazed by it.”

It’s such a gift that individuals and families from across the globe can share in this special community that JPII fosters, and the generous hospitality of families that make it happen. We’re so proud to call Leon a Knight, as well as his host families and his JPII teachers and friends!

alumni UPDATES

— 2005 —

Deron Martel runs his own business celebrating the iconic Phantom of the Opera. Studio D FX Inc started in 2018, but Deron first began making masks in 2010 - learning by watching videos & online tutorials about sculpture, anatomy, etc. Deron notes there are only 2-3 Phantom mask makers who are dedicated to the accuracy of the masks. He makes masks for productions of The Phantom of the Opera, has sent at least four masks to past Phantom actors, and has helped other local schools with their Phantom productions. We were humbled and honored when Deron gifted one of his beautiful Phantom masks to JPII’s cast following the closing show of this spring’s JPII musical production.

After graduating from JPII, Deron attended Volunteer State, then completed a degree in theatre at Cumberland University. He has performed in regional productions, as well as in New York. He has acted off & on through the years, appearing in Les Miserables, Beauty & the Beast, Sweeney Todd, and Fiddler on the Roof.

— 2008 —

Adrienne (Knox) Sagaser works as the Branch Office Administrator for Edward Jones. She resides in Gallatin with husband Trent and their two children (TJ, born in 2019 and Adelaide, born in 2021).

Michael Twilbeck is a Laboratory Consultant with an extensive background in optimizing laboratory operations and enhancing analytical capabilities. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and specializes in offering tailored solutions to laboratories seeking to maximize efficiency and precision. He is the Owner/CEO of Kokua Analytical Consultants on the island of Hawaii (specifically in the Kona area of the “big island”). He and his wife have a beautiful toddler.

— 2009 —

Blaise Dempsey works as a Research and Development Manager at Consumer Product Partners in Smyrna. He graduated from Bellarmine University in 2013 with a degree in Chemistry and also studied Biotechnology at MTSU. He and wife Maggie married in May of 2025.

— 2010 —

Melissa (MacConnell) Adams, DVM works as a veterinarian after completing her training at St. George’s University in Grenada, West Indies. She graduated from University of TN prior to studying in the Caribbean. She and her husband live in Middle TN with their one-yearold son, with a second baby joining

the family in summer 2025. She is working with other classmates to celebrate their 15-year reunion since graduating from JPII.

Leslie (Deakins) Gautsch graduated with her PhD in Education Policy from University of California San Diego. She is married to fellow 2010 JPII alumnus Jon Gautsch and they have two children (Phoebe, born in 2022 and Iris, born in 2024). They currently reside in Del Mar, CA.

Random Giles graduated from NADC, where he studied Automotive High Performance. He works at Only Motorsports as a Horsepower Technician and currently resides in Mt. Juliet, TN.

Dr. Bryan Mainhardt started working at Interfaith Dental (nonprofit, charitable dental home serving patients in Middle TN) in spring 2024 as the Greater Nashville Clinic Director. His journey at Interfaith began during his time in dental school at University of Louisville School of Dentistry through a month-long rotation. Upon graduating with his DDS, Dr. Mainhardt started working in private practice, but volunteered his time as a dentist at Interfaith’s two clinic locations. His wife, Dr. Laura Aristizabal is also a local dentist, and both shared a passion for giving of their time as Interfaith volunteers. They currently live in Nashville with their beautiful children (2 under 2!), Sofia and Oliver.

Sarah (Bourget) Nicholson is the owner and talented artist/baker with Nicholson’s Nibbles. Her dream of owning a bakery sprouted when she was a little girl, and came to fruition after becoming a mom - now she has a creative outlet that doesn’t take her away from her little girls at home. She began decorating sugar cookies and quickly fell in love (perfect combination of a love of baking and her desire to create art). In addition to her beautiful sugar cookies, she also creates marvelous macarons, gourmet cookies, and decadent brownie bites. She helps other budding bakers perfect their skills by hosting Cookie Decorating classes. Sarah & husband Matt not only work together on aspects of the business, but they share two beautiful daughters. Sarah hopes to share the bakery with their girls one day and continue her lifelong celebration of food. JPII recently served some of Sarah’s beautiful creations at April’s Easter Egg Hunt and Grandparents’ Day events. Visit Nicholson’s Nibbles: www.nicholsonsnibbles.com @nicholsons_nibbles on Instagram.

Katie Shea is a luxury travel advisor and entrepreneur who owns Katie Shea Travel. Specializing in luxury travel planning services, she curates personalized itineraries and experiences for clients around the world. After graduating from Ole Miss in 2014, Katie began her career in marketing before shifting into luxury travel. She trained under a top industry expert in New York City and later launched her own business in collaboration with Major Traveler, a full-service agency based in Atlanta, GA. Katie lives in Hendersonville and continues to explore the world firsthand - from summers in Europe and beach hopping in Bora Bora to safari and gorilla trekking in Africa.

alumni UPDATES

Dr. Dominique “Dom” Tull is a physical therapy specialist in orthopaedic clinical therapy & fellow at American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists, as well as adjunct faculty member for South College. After graduating from JPII, he attended UAB, then attended physical therapy school at Florida A&M. He did his PT residency through Brooks Institute of Higher Learning in Jacksonville, where he currently resides. He is engaged, and the father of a fouryear-old son, as well as a newborn baby girl.

— 2011 —

After graduating from JPII in 2011, Mary Leonard Joyce has stayed in close contact with her alma mater. She currently works for Deloitte in government consulting, but previously worked on JPII’s admissions team while coaching

the high school lacrosse team. Since leaving her role at JPII, she has stayed active in the lacrosse community-- both as a head coach for the local middle school league, a referee, or more recently, a volunteer coach for JPII middle school last year.

She recently married Father Ryan alum, Jonathan Joyce, and they welcomed their first daughter Eloise Joyce. When not busy working and being a new mom, Mary also volunteers as a member of Team Chad’s young professionals board (in memory of Chad Welch’s fight against leukemia) an organization that financially supports cancer patients and their families in TN).

It was a fun surprise to have Mary volunteer to referee the JPII middle school JV team’s final game of the 2025 season!

— 2013 —

Dr. Dominick Massa is in practice with Dr. Carol Montee at Donelson Dental Center. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Dayton and dental school at the Ohio State University College of Dentistry. He also completed an Associate Education in General Dentistry (A.E.G.D) from

the South Texas Veterans Healthcare System, where he received special training in complex treatment plans ranging from dental implants to full smile rehabilitation.

— 2014 —

Dr. Collin Bryant graduated with his doctorate from University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry (after completing his BS/Pre-Dental at University of Dayton). He is a dentist at Alpha Dental. He and wife Julia reside in Clarksville, TN.

— 2015 —

Christian Cook (pictured here with his wife Mandy and son Blaise) is serving as a JPII Young Life Leader. Young Life is a Christian ministry that reaches out to middle school, high school, and college students in all 50 of the United States and in more than 100 countries around the world. Christian & Mandy welcomed their first child (son Blaise) in April 2025.

Sarah Link choreographed the spring 2025 JPII production of The Phantom of the Opera. She also choreographed JPII Theatre’s past productions of Honk! The Musical, Oklahoma, The Addams Family, and Matilda. When she’s not teaching high schoolers how to plie and tendu to musical scores, she works full-time as a licensed behavioral health therapist. Sarah has worked in various settings, including schools, residential substance use treatment, intensive outpatient services, and community healthcare clinics. In her free time, she enjoys making cappuccinos at home, traveling across the country to see her friends, and reading books to her two adorable nieces. Sarah is grateful for her JPII education and enjoys continuing to be a part of the community.

Jaime (Rochester) Littrell and her husband welcomed their first child, Seaton Lake Littrell in March 2025. In addition to being a new mama, Jaime teaches MS English at JPII and is the MS House Coordinator.

— 2017 —

Madeline “Maddy” (Barber) Cason married William “Billy” Cason on September 20 at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church. The couple resides in Goodlettsville with their dog (Oakley), and Madeline works as a nurse in the PICU at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Billy is an accountant with Crowe LLP. Several JPII alumKnights were attendants in the ceremony (including Barber sisters Audrey ‘19, Kate ‘22, and Mary ‘24).

Jackson (Jack) Palen graduated from Loyola Marymount University, where he majored in International Relations, Economics, and French. He currently resides in New York City.

Matt Staley is an Admissions Counselor at Belmont University. After graduating from JPII, he completed his bachelor’s degree at Saint Louis University (double majors in Communication & Theology with minors in Political Science & Catholic Studies). He then attended the University of Notre Dame where he taught in the ACE program and earned a Master of Education. Following his time at Notre Dame, he moved back to Nashville to be closer to family. As Belmont’s admissions counselor for JPII, he participated in JPII’s Junior College Workshop in February 2025.

alumni UPDATES

— 2018 —

Connor (Cainie) Brown was inducted into the Nashville Catholic Middle School Forensic League Hall of Fame as the 2024 Alumni Honoree. She and her family, including sister Carlisle Brown ‘22 and parents Karen (JPII Registrar) and Michael Brown (JPII past staffer) attended an event to receive the honor fall 2024.

— 2020 —

After graduating BirminghamSouthern College in the spring of 2024, Cade Marino is currently working on his MBA at LenoirRhyne University, where he’s able to continue playing lacrosse. JPII was thrilled to host Cade’s team in February 2025, where Lenoir-Rhyne battled Maryville University. It was the season kickoff game, being played on a neutral site, and it’s very rare for a D2 lacrosse game to be played here (or any divisional college game) in Middle Tennessee. Both

Cade and his coaches were excited for him to come full circle and play his last season at his high school. Cade’s plans after completing his MBA include working in the business management or marketing fields.

Kenneth “Lincoln” Mocko graduated from WKU with his Bachelors in Construction Management. He works for Crain Construction as a Project Engineer, and he currently resides in Hendersonville, TN.

Stephen Smart is a lighting designer based in New York City. His design credits include work for IRT Theatre, Jersey City Theatre Center, Fletcher Opera Institute, and Hilloween NC. Stephen holds a BFA in Lighting Design & Technology from UNC School of the Arts, and in the summer of 2024 he was honored to work as a Hemsley Lighting Intern. Professionally, Stephen has assisted numerous well-known lighting designers on shows such as the current US tours of SIX and The Wiz. When not in a theatre, he can be found in the woods hiking or camping.

— 2021 —

Nicolas Bazarne graduated from Political Institute of Paris with his BA in Social Sciences and Humanities (Majoring in Economics and Sociology). He also completed his Masters in International Security at the Political Institute of Paris. He currently resides in Olathe, KS.

Lark has been hired as the JPII

Coach for the 2025-26 school year.

Ryder Smith graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a BA in Music Composition & Theory in May 2025. As one of his final

Taylor

Cheer

projects in the composition program, he enjoyed producing his Senior Composition Recital, which included his original music that he performed and directed others to perform. He is currently writing music and pursuing a career as a piano/organ player. Ryder also regularly performs in the Nashville and southern KY area with a band and as a solo artist. You can find him on Instagram: @rydermarshallpiano

— 2022 —

Kate Barber was selected for The Alan and Wendy Wilson Communication and Leadership Academy at University of Tennessee, where she has completed her junior year studying Journalism and Media. She was one of only 20 students selected (from a pool of 120 applicants!) based on academic record, leadership experience & potential, and character. This inaugural cohort is part of the academy’s interdisciplinary linkage between Haslam College of Business and College of Communication Information (CCI) students. In addition to the honor of being selected to Wilson Academy’s inaugural class, she’s VP of Panhellenic Relations of her sorority Alpha Delta Pi (where she has held other leadership positions previously). She’s an aspiring broadcast journalist (current reporter for UT’s student-run TV station, The Volunteer Channel) and in the spring, she was selected to participate in a press conference with Diocese of Knoxville’s Bishop Mark Beckman. The press conference provided an opportunity to reflect on the life and

passing of Pope Francis, and her question was selected as one the Bishop answered.

Gillis is continuing her

level at Davenport University. During her 2024 season (So.), she made four appearances for the Panthers, and she was named GLIAC All-Academic Excellence. She appeared in 11 games in 2023 (Fr.) while starting in six games as a true freshman - registered a team-high 12 assists, scored three goals, caused three turnovers, and recorded an impressive six assists (T-8th best in program history) to lead the Panthers to its first win of that season. She is majoring in sport management, and will be graduating in 2025, having completed her bachelor’s degree in three years (and starting a oneyear master’s program for her fourth year)! Jenna worked at JPII this summer as the Summer Camp Assistant.

— 2023 —

Kenny Minchey is continuing his football career at the collegiate level at Notre Dame University. Kenny arrived on campus in South Bend

spring 2023 as an early enrollee and is gaining great experience as a backup quarterback in the 2023 and 2024 seasons. A recent article indicates his hard work puts him in contention for QB1 as the 2025 season unfolds.

— 2024 —

Fred Bailey returned to JPII’s campus spring 2025 to volunteer with the annual Sparkle Pageant. He had this to say about the event, “It was a well-organized event that allows you to meet the best friends everyone needs. It’s an event full of different personalities and fun. We also shared all type of commonalities from a different perspective.”

Fred attends Trevecca University, where he redshirted on the men’s basketball team.

Do you have a JPII alumni update to share? Do you need to update your contact information? We love hearing from our alumni! Please contact JPII Alumni Relations Advancement Officer Andrea Stilwell (andrea.stilwell@jp2prep. org) or visit the alumni page on the JPII wesite (www.jp2prep.org/community-life/ alumni).

Jenna

lacrosse career at the collegiate

alumni CONNECTIONS

Homecoming 2024

September 13, 2024

&

Class of 2014

Fall 2024, 10 Year Reunion Fat

Halftime

Celebration at the Rudder at Anchor High Marina

Bottom Brewery

Aaron Weber ‘10 at Zanies Nashville

January 2025

Tee Line Nashville

January 2025

Winter Alumni Social

Alumni Easter Egg Hunt

April 12, 2025

Spring Alumni Social

We are grateful to Jordan (MacConnell) Lawson ‘08 for being the visionary behind organizing our first-annual Alumni Easter Egg Hunt! We are also appreciative of the Brumley family (The Goddard Schools of Gallatin & Hendersonville, pictured bottom left) for providing wonderful activities during the event.

our newest alumni mission complete

In this feature, we are highlighting six of the recent JPII graduates from the class of 2025 who fully lived the JPII mission of strength in mind, body, character, and spirit, as they go on to lives of learning and service, according to the Gospel at Princeton University, University of Notre Dame, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Their servant leadership, excellence in academics, rich faith life, and athletic and fine arts accomplishments exemplify the ways our mission was well-lived through the class of 2025.

Thomas Arender

Princeton University

Thomas Arender participated in track, cross country, swimming, National Honor Society, Model UN, Youth in Government, altar serving, and ministry class. He is a school record holder in four individual running events, a National Merit Scholarship Finalist, recipient of the Spanish Excellence Award, and earned a Silver Medal on the National Spanish Exam. JPII allowed Thomas to explore his academic interests while growing in faith and athletics. Daily Mass and time in the chapel helped him deepen his relationship with God. He’s especially grateful for the supportive community and the camaraderie of the track and cross country teams.

Andrew Connow

U.S. Military Academy at West Point

Andrew Connow participated in wrestling, track, student ambassadorship, ministry, the Math Club, and the National Honor Society, while also serving as a teacher’s assistant. He earned Excellence in Economics, was named Scholar of Mathematics, helped set the school 4x400 record, and was a 4x wrestling state placer and 2x All-State wrestler. JPII’s rigorous academics and committed faculty prepared Andrew for college success. The Catholic environment and faith-driven friendships helped guide his path. A standout moment was the senior class pancake breakfast at Moss Wright Park—a memory that reflects the unity and spirit of JPII’s close-knit, supportive community.

Zander Palmer

U.S. Military Academy at West Point

Zander Palmer was a dedicated member of the football and lacrosse teams while taking AP English and history courses. He earned All-Region honors in both sports, All-County in football, and received a four-year Army ROTC scholarship. JPII helped instill strong study habits early on, with his AP World History class setting the tone for academic confidence and time management. The school’s Christ-centered environment helped him stay grounded and avoid negative influences. Surrounded by supportive teachers and motivated peers, Zander found lasting friendships that pushed him to grow and succeed—both in the classroom and on the field.

Emma Chittle

University of Notre Dame

Emma Chittle was involved in soccer, bowling, Voices Uknighted, ministry, musicals, chamber choir, and served as a Hand-in-Hand peer mentor. She received the Colonna Literary Award, Academic Excellence in English and Honors Chemistry, and the Choir Director’s Award. Emma credits JPII’s dedicated teachers for supporting her academically and personally. Ministry class and access to the sacraments played a vital role in shaping her character. The faith-based friendships she formed were a source of strength. Her Ministry community exemplified Christian love, and serving as a peer mentor was especially meaningful, allowing her to care for others in a handson way.

Noah Lim

Princeton University

During his time at JPII, valedictorian Noah Lim was involved in YMCA Model UN and Youth in Government, earning many recognitions as an Outstanding Delegate, Outstanding Bill, Outstanding Spokesperson and was elected as both President and Vice President of the General Assembly in Model UN and Youth Governor of Tennessee in YIG. Noah was a member of JPII House Council, the Math Team, and the Imago Dei Club. He served as the captain of the Men’s Golf team where he earned recognition on the all-county team and as the region individual champion his junior year. Noah says that his servant leadership has been strongly influenced by his Catholic faith.

Erin Rieck

University of Notre Dame

At JPII, salutatorian Erin Rieck has been captain of the swim and forensics teams, a cross country athlete, band member, and assistant director of the pep band. She serves as vice president of the National Honor Society, a lector, choir member, Totus Tuus participant, SEARCH leader, student ambassador, and spirit council member. Attending daily Mass has deepened her faith and shaped her spiritual life. Erin is a National Merit Finalist, AP Scholar with Distinction, and Salutatorian. JPII has helped her grow academically and spiritually, and the supportive, faith-filled community— especially the daily Mass—has been one of her most meaningful experiences.

2023-2024

GRATITUDE REPORT

The JPII community once again provided generous support throughout the 2023-2024 fiscal year with gifts of time, talent, and treasure. JPII is indeed blessed by every student, parent, alumKnight, alumni parent, grandparent, faculty/staff member, and friend who annually come together as a collective to donate. The annual commitments of our JPII donor mission partners impact our students’ school experiences and enhance all departments and program offerings, guaranteeing that the JPII experience is as relevant today as it always has been and will be for generations of future Knights yet to attend. The future is bright for the “shining city on the hill.”

We pray daily for those listed herein who have been good to JPII in His name. Amen.

THE POPE SAINT JOHN PAUL II LEGACY SOCIETY

JPII honors and thanks donors who have made permanent provisions for JPII in their estate plans.

Anonymous

Mr. Clark and Dr. Carolyn Baker

Monsignor William Bevington Estate

Bishop Edward U. Kmiec

Mr. Thomas McCarthy and Mrs. Marcia McCarthy

Mr. Michael Shea and Mrs. Nita Shea

Monsignor Philip Thoni Estate

Mrs. Elizabeth Wehby Estate

THE SHIELD SOCIETY - ($25,000.00 + )

Mr. Alexander Isaacson ’10 and Mrs. Bridgett Isaacson ^ Mrs. Allison Isaacson-Beahm ’08^

Mr. Michael Isaacson ’05 ^ Richard Allen Isaacson Trust

Mr. J. Edward Pearson and Mrs. Kathleen Pearson ^

KNIGHT’S COURT SOCIETY - ($10,000.00 + )

Anonymous ^ Boyle Family Foundation

Mr. Daniel J. Dugan and Mrs. Karen Dugan ^

Dr. Joseph Fox and Mrs. Kim Fox ^

Dr. Clayton Fulks and Mrs. Jennifer Fulks

Mr. Greg Garretson and Mrs. Mary Garretson ^

Mr. Cameron Goss and Mrs. Brenda Goss

Mr. Russell Marino and Mrs. Charlotte Marino, Jr. ^

Mr. Thomas McCarthy and Mrs. Marcia McCarthy ^

Nashville Catholic Business Women’s League ^

^Indicates our gratitude for those who have given to JPII for ten or more consecutive years.

Mr. Shay Oliphant and Mrs. Julie Oliphant

Mr. Michael Shea and Mrs. Nita Shea ^

Mr. Golden Tate ’07 and Mrs. Elise Tate ^ The John L. and Margaret Clendenin Family Foundation

The Kind Charities of Tennessee, Inc.

Mr. Terry Wallace and Mrs. Cindy Wallace ^

Mr. Justin Webb and Mrs. Jennifer Webb

Mr. William Wood and Mrs. Jennifer Wood ^

Mr. Tony Zuazo and Mrs. Jeanne Zuazo

LORDS & LADIES SOCIETY - ($5,000.00 + )

Anonymous ^ Battelle Education

Mr. Steve Black and Mrs. Tracy Black

Mr. Larry Borders and Mrs. Terri Borders ^ CarSmart ^ Center for Bridging Cultures

CMS Telecom Services LLC

Mr. Stephen C. Cook and Mrs. Shannon Cook ^

Mr. Mark Griffith and Mrs. Louise Griffith

Mr. Mike Honious and Mrs. Sue Honious

Mr. Britt P. Hunt

Hunt Brothers Pizza/DBH Distributing, LLC

Mr. Bruce Hurst and Mrs. Julie Hurst

Mr. James McLeod and Mrs. Sarah McLeod ^

Mr. John Sooker and Mrs. Colleen Sooker ^ Southern Aesthetics

Dr. Stewart Stowers and Mrs. Samantha Stowers

Taylor, Pigue & Marchetti, PLLC ^

Mr. Adam Tefteller and Mrs. Rachel Tefteller

The Memorial Foundation ^

Dr. Mark Uhl and Dr. Jennifer Uhl ^ Wood Motor Co. Inc.

PAGE & SQUIRE SOCIETY - ($2,500.00 + )

Mr. Matt Anderson and Mrs. Vanessa Anderson

Mr. Barton K. Bagsby and Mrs. Angela Bagsby ^

Mr. Ralph Birchmeier and Mrs. Dawn Birchmeier

Dr. Jim Birckhead and Mrs. Lori Birckhead

Mr. Scott Bryant and Mrs. Christine Bryant

Mr. Matthew Clausen and Mrs. Evelyn Clausen ^ Diocese of Nashville ^

Mr. Bryan Edwards and Mrs. Sharon Edwards ^

Mr. Chip Englander and Mrs. Christina Englander

Mr. Brent Frisbie

Mr. Scott Gettelfinger and Mrs. Lori Gettelfinger ^

Mr. Joseph Hobbs and Mrs. Elizabeth Hobbs

Mr. Benjiman Link and Mrs. Jessica Link

Modern Construction Corporation ^ NovaTech ^

Mr. Steve Pioch and Mrs. Kara Pioch

Mr. Brian Raybourne and Mrs. Casey Raybourne

Mr. James Simino and Mrs. Allison Simino

Mr. Mark Specht

State Farm Companies Foundation

Ms. Katie Stenberg

Stiles Impressions LLC/DBA GradPro TN

Dr. Stephen Strickland and Mrs. Catherine Strickland

Dr. Chad Swan and Mrs. Kelly Swan

The Nancy M. & Victor S. Johnson, Jr. Foundation, Inc.

CABALLARIUS SOCIETY - ($1,500.00 + )

Anonymous Anonymous

Mr. Chad Bone and Mrs. Becky Bone ^

Mr. Jon Calisi and Mrs. Angela Calisi

Mr. Terry Calonge and Mrs. Sheri Calonge

Mr. Charles Carver and Mrs. Betty Carver Cross Driven Consulting

Mr. Mark Deffendall and Mrs. Patti Deffendall ^

Mr. John P. Donnelly and Mrs. Chris Donnelly

Mr. William Michael Hannold and Mrs. Tanna Hannold

Mr. Frederick Heagarty and Mrs. Kristin Heagarty ^ Dr. Delon and Mrs. Ennas Hebron

Dr. Walter Koscienski and Dr. Christine Foster

Mr. Joseph Lynch and Mrs. Danielle Lynch

Mr. Chris Meffe and Mrs. Colleen Meffe

Mr. Lawrence Molloy and Mrs. Deborah Molloy Rogers Group, Inc. Gallatin Quarry

Dr. John Shea and Mrs. Jennifer Shea ^ St. Patrick Catholic Church

The Johnson Law Firm

Mr. Greg S. Tuerff and Mrs. Jayne Tuerff

Mr. Jon Verlinde

COAT OF ARMS SOCIETY - ($1,000.00 + )

Mr. Mike Abbondanza and Mrs. Karen Abbondanza

Dr. David Amlicke and Mrs. Michelle Amlicke Anonymous Anonymous

Mr. Andy Arbuckle and Mrs. Bethany Arbuckle

Mr. Allen Arender and Mrs. Laura Arender

Mr. Scott Bagwell and Mrs. DeAna Bagwell ^

Mr. Clark Baker and Dr. Carolyn Baker ^

Mr. Scott Baxter and Mrs. Melissa Baxter

Mr. Zac Campbell and Mrs. Tara Campbell ^

Dr. Erick Chittle and Mrs. Kimberly Chittle

Mr. Jeff Coker and Mrs. Katie Coker

Mr. Thomas Ferranti and Dr. Lori Ferranti Fleetline

Mr. Mike Gaughan and Mrs. Lindy Gaughan

Dr. William Gavigan ^ Greater Horizons

Halcomb Homes, LLC

Mr. Trent Halcomb and Mrs. Meghan Halcomb

Mr. James Harrison and Mrs. Leslie Harrison ^

Dr. Tommy Koen and Dr. Mary Cay Koen ^

Mr. Bryan Lapinski and Mrs. April Lapinski

Mr. Kevin McNatt and Mrs. Kathleen McNatt ^

Mr. Darrell Montgomery and Mrs. Mekesha Montgomery

Mr. Richard Musacchio and Mrs. Karen Musacchio ^ Ms. Debbie Naylor

Mr. William Newton and Mrs. Terry Newton

Father Nonso Ohanaka

Ms. Karen Phillips ^

Mr. Darryl Sage and Mrs. Russha Sage

Mr. Nickolas and Mrs. Kelly Schimmel

Mr. David Snow and Mrs. Marjorie Snow

Mr. Bill Spicer and Mrs. Jenelle Spicer

Dr. Thomas Spivey

Mrs. Laura Thigpen and Mr. Matthew Thigpen ^

Mr. Mike Thompson and Mrs. Renee Thompson

Mr. Michael Twilbeck ‘08

Mr. David and Mrs. Amy Wright

Mr. Timothy Kirk Whittington and Mrs. Julie Whittington ^

BLUE & GOLD SOCIETY - ($1.00 + )

Mr. Ethan Abner

Dr. Victor Acevedo and Mrs. Greycha Lopez

Mr. Al Agnew and Mrs. Janet Agnew

Mr. Jeff Agnew

Mr. Sherwood Aldrich and Dr. Kelly Aldrich

Mr. Stephen Aleman and Mrs. Jennifer Aleman

Mr. Sean Alexander and Mrs. Sarah Alexander

Mr. Guy Alfieri and Mrs. Susan Alfieri ^

Mr. Jason Allman and Mrs. Tiffany Allman

Mr. Guillermo J. Alonzo and Mrs. Amelia Alonzo

Mr. Jeff Altenbern and Mrs. Molly Altenbern

American Red Cross

Mr. Robert Amonette and Mrs. Seng Amonette

Ms. Anita Anderson

Ms. Lauren Anderson ‘05

Mrs. Tanya Anderson

Anonymous

Anonymous ‘09

Apex Building Services, LLC

Mr. Stephen Aud and Dr. Patricia Aud

Dr. Jon Backstrom and Dr. Maureen Gannon

Mrs. Dare Bagwell

Mr. Justin Bahorik and Mrs. Kari Bahorik

Mr. Casey Bailey and Mrs. Jaime Bailey

Mr. Dusty Baker and Mrs. Stephanie Baker

Dr. Erich Baker and Mrs. Lori Baker

Mr. John Baker and Mrs. Stacie Baker

Mr. Marcus Baldini and Mrs. Shannon Baldini

Ms. Harriet Baltz

Ms. Eva Bangert

Mr. Vishal Banker and Mrs. Bhavika Banker

Miss Audrey Barber ‘19

Miss Kate Barber ‘22

Mr. Kevin A. Barber and Mrs. Michelle L. Barber ^

Miss Madeline Barber ‘17

Miss Mary Barber ‘24

Mr. Troy Bartlett and Dr. Kristine Bartlett

Mr. Charles Batey and Mrs. Carrie Batey

Ms. Ashley Bennett

Mr. Nathan Berry and Ms. Amy Berry

Mr. Philip Best and Mrs. Erika Best

Dr. James Bills and Dr. Audrey Kuntz

Mr. Jeff Bilyeu

Ms. Nancy Blankinship

Mr. Kevin Blaser and Mrs. Tracie Blaser

Mrs. Mallory Bolen ‘08

Ms. Kathy Borum

Ms. Linda Borum

Mr. Michael Boyle and Mrs. Crystal Boyle

Mr. Todd Bracht and Mrs. Amanda Bracht

Mr. Coleman Braun and Mrs. Elise Braun

Mr. Joel Brentlinger and Mrs. Lynn Brentlinger

Mr. Tyrus Briggs and Mrs. Marina Briggs

Mr. Mike Brown and Mrs. Karen Brown ^

Dr. Matt and Mrs. Melissa Browning

Mr. Russell Brown and Mrs. Dana Brown

Mr. Hogan Bryant ’12 and Mrs. Mary Katherine Bryant

Mr. Winder Buchanan ‘06

Reverend Andrew J. Bulso ’05 ^

Mr. Wilhelm Bunjor ‘11

Ms. Virginia Burke

Mr. Randall Burkhalter and Mrs. Sue Burkhalter

Dr. Dan Burval and Dr. Roxanne Valentino

Mr. Tod Bushman and Mrs. Rosanne Bushman

Ms. Donna Butikofer

Mr. Judson Byler and Mrs. Rebecca Byler

Mr. Ryan Calonge

Mr. Luis Calvillo and Mrs. Tania Calvillo

Dr. Mark Cambron and Mrs. Connie Cambron

Mr. Scott Cameron and Mrs. Julie Cameron

Mr. Roy Cantillano and Mrs. Evelin Solorzano

Mr. Fernando Caratachea and Mrs. Maria de Lourdes Perez

Mr. Josh Carman and Mrs. Brooke Carman

Ms. Tiffany L. Carta

Mr. Jake Carter and Mrs. Julie Carter

Ms. Larrice Carter

Mr. Rick Cash and Mrs. Amy Cash

Mr. Danny Castro and Mrs. Amy Castro

Mr. John Cavin and Mrs. Donna Cavin

BLUE & GOLD SOCIETY - ($1.00 + ), cont.

Mr. Jerald D. Chaffin

Mr. Paul Childress and Mrs. Kim Childress

Mr. Kevin Clavin ’11 and Mrs. Emily Mills Clavin ‘09

Mr. Darnell Clay and Mrs. Michelle Clay

Mr. Benjamin Coleman and Dr. Christine Coleman

Mr. Lawrence Coleman and Mrs. Kesha Coleman

Mr. James Collins and Mrs. Jo Collins

Mr. Kevin Collins and Mrs. Nina Collins

Mr. Marty Collins and Mrs. Roxanne Collins

Cooperative Credit Union Association Inc

Mr. Chris Cornish and Mrs. Alisha Cornish

Mr. Ryan Crawford and Mrs. Christy Crawford

Mr. Timothy Crean and Mrs. Rose Laughlin

Mr. Robert Samuel Cribb and Mrs. Emma Cribb

Mr. Brent Crouch and Mrs. Priscilla Crouch

Mr. Robert B. Curren and Mrs. Patricia A. Curren

Dr. Nicholas Currlin and Dr. Tuzdy Currlin

Ms. Patricia Casey Daley

Mr. Luke Dalske and Mrs. Sarah Dalske

Mr. Brian Davis and Mrs. Celeste Davis

Mr. Chris Davis and Mrs. Kerri Davis

Mr. John Davis and Mrs. Georgia Carolyn Davis

Mr. Russell Davis and Mrs. Terri Davis

Mr. Shannon Day

Mr. Marketo Days and Dr. Randi Days

Mrs. Kim deMarigny

Mr. John Dempsey and Mrs. Cathy Dempsey ^

Mr. Matthew Denney and Mrs. Lindsay Denney

Dennis Uniform Company

Mr. Brandon Denton and Mrs. Jessica Denton

Mr. Kyle Denu and Mrs. Sasha Denu

Mr. Luke Diamond and Reverend Amanda Diamond

Mr. Daniel Dion

Mr. Stephen Donnelly and Mrs. Patricia Donnelly

Mr. Raul Dorantes Ledezma and Mrs. Gloria Cordero Perez

Mr. Brad Dorr and Mrs. Vicki Dorr ^

Mr. Tyler Dorr ‘15

Mr. Michael Drewry and Dr. Mary Drewry

Mr. Keach Driver and Mrs. Tandy Driver

Mr. Mark Duehmig and Mrs. Cindi Duehmig

Dr. Tim Duffin and Mrs. Carol Duffin

Ms. Thelma Dugger

Mr. Chad Durham and Mrs. Selena Baltz

Mrs. Jennifer Dye and Mr. Kevin Dye ^

Mr. Brian Dyer and Mrs. Andrea Dyer

Mr. Tony Earley and Mrs. Sarah Bell Earley

Mr. Scott Easter and Mrs. Ingrid Easter ^

Mr. Thomas Eckert

Mr. Chris Egan and Mrs. Allison Egan

Mr. Jim Elfers and Mrs. Elizabeth Elfers

Mr. Kerry Evans and Mrs. Emily Evans

Mr. Brad Fair and Mrs. Laura Fair

Ms. Sarah Farmer

Ms. Cheryl Ann Fassler

Mr. Jason Faulk and Mrs. Shanna Faulk

Dr. Shindana Feagins and Mr. Edwin Feagins

Mr. David Fesmire and Mrs. Jennifer Fesmire

Mr. Benjamin Fillmore and Mrs. Allison Fillmore

Ms. Margaret Finaly ‘12

Mr. Gary W. Findlay

Mr. Nathan Forester ’09 and Mrs. Jewell Forester

Mr. Sean Forrest and Mrs. Julie Forrest

Mr. Al Foster and Mrs. Barbara Foster

BLUE & GOLD SOCIETY - ($1.00 + ), cont.

Mr. McLean Fowler and Mrs. Kara Fowler

Ms. Ashley Fox ‘09

Mr. Eddie Freeman and Mrs. Manie Freeman

Mr. John Friel and Mrs. Megan Friel

Ms. Teresa Frisbie

Mr. Mark Fuqua and Mrs. Vickie Fuqua

Mr. Douglas Gafney and Mrs. Julie Gafney

Mr. Charles Gaia and Mrs. Nicole Gaia

Mr. Mondray Gee

Mr. Cal Gentry and Mrs. Lisa Gentry

Mrs. Jinny Glasco

Mr. Rob Gleason and Mrs. Lori Gleason

Mr. Milton Glidewell and Mrs. Kristin Glidewell

Mr. Jim Glover and Mrs. Stacy Glover

GNFunding

Mr. Divyesh Gopal and Mrs. Swati Patel

Ms. Rachel Gordon ^

Mr. David Gould and Mrs. Ellen Gould

Mr. Chris Graffagnino and Mrs. Heather Graffagnino

Mr. Robert Gregor and Mrs. Catherine Gregor

Mr. Jim Griffin and Mrs. Linda Griffin

Mrs. Lois L. Griffiths and Mr. Tom Griffiths

Mr. Stephen E. Griffiths and Mrs. Kathie Jo Griffiths

Ms. Carmey Ground

Mr. Charlie J. Guerry and Mrs. Caroline Guerry ^

Mr. Jeff Hall and Dr. Liz Hall

Mr. Joshua Hallock and Mrs. Jayne Hallock

Ms. Guihua Han

Mr. Alfred S. Hanson and Mrs. Jodi A. Hanson

Mr. Derek Harris and Mrs. Michelle Harris

Mrs. Michelle Harris

Mr. Neal Harris and Mrs. Jennifer Harris

Mr. Michael Hartman and Mrs. Nayeli Hartman

Mr. Joseph P. Hawblitzel and Mrs. Mary Ann Hawblitzel

Mr. Matt Hayes and Mrs. Shanda Hayes

Mr. Steve Haynes

Mr. Robert Hays and Mrs. Jan Hays

Ms. Onnessia Head

Mrs. Lindsay Henderson

Mr. Rick Herauf and Mrs. Imee Herauf

Mr. Jeff Herrmann and Mrs. Tracey Herrmann

Mr. Matthew Herzer and Mrs. Stephanie Herzer

Mr. William Hilleary and Mrs. Meredith Hilleary

Mr. Zachary Hiller and Mrs. Catherine Hiller

Mr. Ed Hisrich and Mrs. Julie Hisrich

Mr. Jeffery W. Hite and Mrs. Amanda Hite

Mr. David Hobbs and Mrs. Jill Hobbs

Mr. Michael Hobneck and Mrs. Kristen Hobneck

Mr. Brian Hock and Mrs. Jeanne Hock

Ms. Kelly Hogan

Mr. Clarence Hollins

Mr. Dan Hollis and Mrs. Annette Hollis

Mr. Jeffrey Holt and Mrs. Rhonda Holt

Mr. Maclin Holt and Mrs. Jeannette Holt

Mr. David Hortenstine and Mrs. Lynne Hortenstine

Dr. Brett Houlberg and Mrs. Shelley Houlberg Hoytco, LLC

Mrs. Diane Huggins and Mike Huggins ^

Mr. Justin Humphries ‘17

Ms. Hayley Hunley ‘05

Mr. Matthew Isbell and Mrs. Christina Isbell

Mr. Joshua Isble and Dr. Jenny Isble

Ms. Clair Ivanov

BLUE & GOLD SOCIETY - ($1.00 + ), cont.

Mr. Ivan Ivanov

Ms. Olivia Ivanov

Mr. David Ivy and Mrs. Holly Ivy

Dr. Chris Jackson and Mrs. Amy Jackson

Mr. Shiju Jacob and Mrs. Neetha George

Mr. Tyler Jacobs and Mrs. Kara Jacobs

Ms. Jessami Jacobson

Mrs. Felicia James

Mr. Daniel Jennings and Mrs. Lillian Jennings

Mr. David Jerome and Mrs. Erin Jerome

Ms. Dot Johns

Mrs. Crystal Johnson ‘ 05 and Mr. Josh Johnson

Ms. LaVonda Johnson

Ms. Lorie Johnson

Dr. Marshall Johnson and Mrs. Anne Johnson

Mr. Timothy Johnson and Mrs. Jaimee Johnson

Mr. Bijon Jones and Mrs. Chyna Jones

Mr. Gerald B. Jones and Mrs. Melanie Jones

Mr. Greg Jones and Mrs. Tiffany Jones

Mrs. Lori Jones and Reverend Jeff Jones ^

Mr. Tom Jurkovich and Ms. Karen Jurkovich

Mr. Robert Kanaby and Mrs. Alison Kanaby

Mr. Michael Karp

Ms. Cecilia Keith

Dr. Michael Kellogg and Dr. Lisa Kellogg

Mr. William Kelly and Mrs. Leslie Kelly

Ms. Christine Kennard

Mr. Patrick Kennedy and Mrs. Kate Kennedy

Ms. Regina Kenney

Ms. Deborah K. King

Mr. Travis King and Mrs. Jenny King

Mr. Zachary King and Mrs. Kirsten King

Mr. Mark Kiracofe and Mrs. Melita Rippy

Mr. Shane Kirby and Mrs. Amy Kirby

Mr. Joe Kirkpatrick and Mrs. Jennifer Kirkpatrick

Mr. Thomas Koen ‘11

Mr. Patrick Kopf and Mrs. Allison Kopf

Mr. David Krebs and Mrs. Paula Krebs ^

Mrs. Mallory Krisko

Mr. William Krispin and Mrs. Barbara Krispin ^

Mrs. Marcia Kritikos and Mr. Theodore Kritikos

Mr. Gerald Kuessner and Mrs. Brenda Kuessner

Mr. Yogesh Kumar and Mrs. Payal Raj

Mr. Jason Kumm and Mrs. Michelle Sonnichsen-Kumm

Mr. Tommy Lahey

Mr. Miaomiao Lai

Mr. Ed Lamberg and Mrs. Heidi Lamberg

Mr. Jonathan Langlois and Mrs. Beth Langlois

Mrs. Danielle Latham and Mr. Stacy Latham

Mr. Steve Lee and Mrs. Erin Lee

Ms. Carolyn Lehmkuhl

Mr. Jason Lekki and Mrs. Patricia Lekki

Mr. Zhonggang Li and Mrs. Chunyi Zhang

Mr. Brian Lichter and Mrs. Ursula Lichter

Mr. Jonathan Lincoln and Mrs. Amanda Martinez-Lincoln

Linn Area Credit Union

Mr. Ashley Linville and Mrs. Beatriz Lopez

Mr. Andres Llanos and Mrs. Lien Linero

Mr. Bruce Long and Mrs. Jill Long ^

Prof. Peter Lorge and Prof. Tracy Miller

LSI (Heartland LLC Landscape Services, Inc)

Mr. Stephen Lydon and Mrs. Michelle Lydon

Mr. Andrew Lynn and Dr. Kathleen Lynn

BLUE & GOLD SOCIETY - ($1.00 + ), cont.

Ms. Patricia L. Macartney

Ms. Lisa Maddox

Mr. Michael Magro and Mrs. Anna Magro

Mr. Adam Markham and Mrs. Amanda Markham

Mr. Charles Marshall and Mrs. Kimberly Marshall

Mr. Michael Martin and Mrs. Heather Martin

Mr. Michael Marx and Mrs. Natasha Marx

Mr. Mark Maschoff

Mr. Courtney Masters and Mrs. Leigh Masters

Mr. Joshua Mauthe and Mrs. Maria Mauthe

Mr. Keller Mays ‘06

Mr. Shane Mccarrell and Mrs. Amanda Mccarrell

Ms. Keagan McCoy

Mr. Arthur McDonald and Mrs. Roxanne McDonald

Mrs. Cassie McDowell ‘08

Ms. Anna McGee

Mr. Jamie McMurry and Mrs. Jennifer McMurry

Mr. Tracy McMurtry and Mrs. Catherine McMurtry

Mr. Kevin Meads and Mrs. Andrea Meads

Mr. Daniel Melega

Mr. Joseph Melvin and Mrs. Carrie Melvin

Mr. Dean Miller and Mrs. Megan Miller

Ms. Gloria Jane Milligan

Mr. Mark Milliken and Mrs. Heather Milliken

Mr. Joey Montalbano and Mrs. Kristy Montalbano

Mr. Phillip Montgomery

Mr. Christopher Montini and Mrs. Melissa Montini

Mr. William Moore and Mrs. Virginia Moore

Mr. Joseph Moran and Mrs. Joan Moran

Mr. Jeffery Morris and Mrs. Cori Morris

Mr. Sonny Moseley and Mrs. Scarlett Moseley

Ms. Camden Mosesmann

Mr. Hans Mosesmann

Dr. Shemario Moses-Stanton

Mr. James Moultry and Mrs. Natisha Moultry

Mr. Tim Muller and Mrs. Michelle Muller

Mr. Timothy Mumma and Mrs. Ann Mumma

Mrs. Annie Musacchio-Croslow ‘06

Mr. Rodney L. Myers and Mrs. Susan E. Myers

Mr. Jody Nardone and Mrs. Claudine Nardone

Mr. Luke Naylor Nelnet Business Solutions

Mr. Mitchell Nelson ’13 and Mrs. Madeline Bologa Nelson ‘13

Mr. David Nesbit and Mrs. Anna Nesbit

Mr. Rob Nessari and Mrs. Dena Nessari

Mrs. Abby Newby ^

Mr. Cameron Nowell and Mrs. Kathleen Nowell

Ms. Ashley Nuestro-Bowker ‘06

Mr. Charles Nute and Mrs. Erica Nute

Mr. Michael Oakley and Mrs. Ashley Oakley

Dr. Timothy OLeary and Mrs. Sarah O’Leary

Mr. Daniel Olivas and Mrs. Susan Olivas

Mr. Roger Oliver and Ms. Sandy Miles

Mr. Jason Orendorff and Mrs. Olivia Orendorff

Mr. Matthew Ours and Mrs. Jennie Ours

Mr. Aleksandr Ovchar and Mrs. Alla Ovchar

Mr. Donald Owens and Mrs. Rebecca Owens

Mr. Robert Page and Mrs. Kate Page ^

Mr. James Palsgrove and Mrs. Jennifer Palsgrove

Mr. Jason Parizek and Mrs. Crystal Parizek

Mr. Andrew Park

Mr. Chris Parker and Mrs. Noelle Parker

Mr. Christopher Parker and Mrs. Jessica Parker

Summer 2025

BLUE & GOLD SOCIETY - ($1.00 + ), cont.

Ms. Sharon Parker-Lenihan

Mr. Jason Parrish and Mrs. Aimee Parrish

Mr. Ashok Patel and Mrs. Vanita Patel

Mr. Chintu Patel and Mrs. Bharti Balu

Ms. Krupa Patel

Mrs. Neha Patel

Mr. Anthony Patterson and Mrs. Melinda Patterson

Ms. Jeanne M. Patterson

Mr. Thomas Patterson and Mrs. Melisa Patterson

Mr. John M. Paule and Mrs. Shari J. Paule

Mr. Alex Payne and Mrs. Lindsay Payne

Mrs. Amanda R. Peper and Mr. Brad R. Peper ^

Mr. Aaron Perer and Mrs. Tara Perer

Mr. Ronald A. Peterson and Mrs. Judene A. Peterson

Mr. Nick Petrocci and Mrs. Heather Petrocci

Mr. Andrew Peyret and Mrs. Susan Peyret

Mr. Jeremiah Pierce and Mrs. Brittany Pierce

Ms. Betsy Pierpaoli ^

Mr. Merlin Popp and Mrs. Elizabeth Popp

Mr. Scott Potter and Mrs. Daphne Potter

Mr. Jack Prewitt and Mrs. Karen Prewitt

Ms. Celia Purcell

Mr. Mark Quarles and Mrs. Valorie Quarles

Mr. Brooks Quin and Mrs. Marjorie Quin

Mr. Joseph Quinn

Mr. Allen Ramsey and Mrs. Tricia Ramsey

Mr. V. Paul Ratcliffe and Mrs. Kim G. Ratcliffe

Mr. Jason Raynes and Mrs. Tandy Raynes

Ms. Anna Reding ‘15

Mr. Forrest Reeves and Mrs. Lori Reeves

Mr. Todd Reynolds and Dr. Mary Day Reynolds

Mr. Grant Rice and Mrs. Shannon Rice

Mr. Brian Richards and Mrs. Toni Richards

Mr. Ryan Rickert and Mrs. Heather Rickert

Mr. Adam Rieck and Mrs. Maureen Rieck

Ms. Jordan Rippy ‘06

Mr. Greg Ritchie and Mrs. Charlotte Ritchie

Mr. Erich Ritzhaupt and Mrs. Sarah Ritzhaupt

Ms. Britta Roach ‘06

Mr. Amariah Robb and Mrs. Kiosha Robb

Mr. Joshua Robey and Mrs. Kristi Robey

Mr. Thomas J. Rogers and Mrs. Christine L. Rogers

Mr. Charley Roman and Mrs. Sandra Roman

Mr. Blake Roth and Mrs. Katie Roth

Mr. Michael Rowan and Mrs. Juana X. Rowan

Ms. Taylor Rowe Reed

Mr. Ralph Ruby and Mrs. Shawna Ruby

Mr. Sean Ruehe and Mrs. Amber Ruehe

Mr. Raymond Runyon and Mrs. Julie Runyon

Mr. Charles Sanger and Mrs. Maureen Sanger

Mrs. Michael Sayles

Mr. David Scaggs and Mrs. Jennifer Scaggs

Mr. Michael Schaefer and Mrs. Christine Schaefer

Mr. Sean Schlagenhaft and Mrs. Erica Schlagenhaft

Ms. Cindy Schubart

Ms. Sharon L. Severson

Mr. Mark Sexton and Mrs. Alison Sexton

Mr. Marty Sexton and Mrs. Wendy Sexton

Mr. Lane Shaver and Mrs. Kimberly Shaver

Mr. Michael Shelby and Mrs. Kathleen Shelby

Mr. Adam Shick and Mrs. Stefanie Shick

Mr. John Sikes and Mrs. Beth Sikes

Mr. Ben Silverman ‘16

BLUE & GOLD SOCIETY - ($1.00 + ), cont.

Mr. Greg Silverman ‘15

Simmons Bank

Mr. Matthew Simonsen and Mrs. Kitti Simonsen

Mr. Daniel M. Singelyn

Mrs. Kathryn Sipos ‘16

Mr. Jerry Skaggs and Mrs. Melissa Skaggs

Mr. Brady Slaughter ‘17

Mr. George Smelcer and Mrs. Kelly Smelcer

Mr. Brian Smith and Mrs. Tara Smith

Mr. Dustin Smith and Mrs. Kimberly Smith

Ms. Ivanka Smith

Mrs. Jennifer Smith and Mr. Ron Smith ^

Mr. Jeremy Smith and Mrs. Shannon Smith

Ms. Lora Leanne Smith

Ms. Patricia Smith

Prof. Seth Smith and Mrs. Tiffany Smith

Mr. Jonathan Smithson and Mrs. Amy Smithson

Ms. Kelly Smits

Mr. Brian Sneed ‘06

Mr. Phil Sneed

Ms. Cathy Snowball

Ms. Susan Snyder

Ms. Blanca Solis

Ms. Rebecca Soto

Mr. Benjamin Sparks and Ms. Dorothy Winfree

Mr. James Spence and Mrs. Rachel Spence

Mr. Steve Springer and Mrs. Sonja Springer

Mr. Robert Springs and Mrs. Rickyna Springs

Ms. Erin Springstead

Mr. Matthew Stahlhut and Mrs. Amy Stahlhut

Mr. Robert C. Steigerwaldt

Mr. Frank Steiner and Mrs. Nida Steiner

Mr. Anthony Stephen and Mrs. Amy Stephen

Ms. Patricia Stephenson ‘06

Mr. Sean Stevison and Mrs. Lisa Stevison

Ms. Lynn Stewart

Mr. David Stiglet and Mrs. Charmaine Stiglet

Mr. Stephen Strickland ‘22

Mr. Joshua Strope and Mrs. Maeghan Strope

Mrs. Cayle Strother

Mr. Clay Strother

Dr. Brian Stuart and Dr. Denise Stuart

Mr. Layton Stump and Mrs. Jan Stump

Mr. John Sullivan and Mrs. Laura Sullivan

Mr. Patrick Sylvester and Mrs. Tianna Sylvester

Mr. Christopher Szalaj and Mrs. Jennifer Zehnder

Dr. Jayson Tabor and Dr. Mary Beth Tabor

Mr. Steve Tarbuck and Mrs. Farrah Tarbuck

Ms. Christine Tartisio

Mr. Wesley Tate ‘09

Ms. Dianne Taylor

Mr. Jason Taylor and Mrs. Stacy Taylor

Dr. Francesca Tentori

Mr. Manuel Terzoli

The Blackbaud Giving Fund by its agent, YourCause

Mr. Jim Thole and Mrs. Phyllis Thole

Mr. Craig Thomas and Mrs. Alyson Thomas ^

Mr. Michael Thomas and Mrs. Cassandra Thomas

Mr. Jacob Tomblinson and Mrs. Candice Tomblinson

Mr. Brent Toole and Mrs. Stacie Toole

Mr. Sean Torr and Mrs. Denine Torr

Mr. Cang Tran and Mrs. Nhu Nguyen

Mr. Norman Tripp

BLUE & GOLD SOCIETY - ($1.00 + ), cont.

TruStage CMFG Life Insurance Company

Mr. Troy Turnbow and Mrs. Jennifer Turnbow

Mr. Jeremy Turner and Mrs. Brandi Turner

Mr. Michael Twilbeck and Mrs. Chris Twilbeck

Mr. David Uyl and Mrs. Kristin Uyl

Dr. Garig Vanderveldt and Mrs. Gina Vanderveldt

Mr. Mark O. Varney and Mrs. Rhonda L. Varney

Mr. C J. Vaughn and Dr. P L. Myrick

Mrs. Veronica Vicente-Ford ‘08

Mr. Gary J. Vien and Mrs. Mary Paula Vien

Mr. Brandon Vonderharr and Mrs. Jaime Vonderharr

Dr. Charles Wade and Mrs. Cara Wade

Mr. Brian Wait and Mrs. Kristina Wait

Ms. Joline Waites

Ms. Anna Wantz ‘18

Mrs. Leann Warren

Ms. Sosha Washington

Mr. Mark Weakley and Mrs. Jessica Weakley

Mr. Kerry Webb

Ms. Carolyn Weieneth

Mr. David Wermus and Mrs. Kristin Wermus

Mr. Mark D. Werner and Mrs. Donna P. Werner

Mr. Steven J. Wesolowski and Mrs. Jean Wesolowski

Mr. Eli West and Mrs. Jennifer West

Ms. Stephanie West ‘06

Mr. William J. Whalen and Mrs. Carol A. Whalen

Mr. Jason Whitaker and Mrs. Callie Whitaker

Mr. Joseph L. Williams and Mrs. Linda Williams

Dr. Regina Williams

Mr. Tony Williams and Dr. Antoinette Williams

Mr. Jeffrey Wilson and Dr. Anabella Wilson

Mr. Robert Wingo and Mrs. Judy Wingo

Mr. Jeffrey Witte and Mrs. Karen Witte

Mr. Jonathan A. Wood ‘09

Wood Financial Group

Mr. Jeremy Wright and Mrs. Keri Wright

Mrs. Bilian Xie

Ms. Maria Zuazo

Legacy Giving/Planned Giving

Legacy Giving refers to donations that a donor promises to a nonprofit organization now, but the donation will actually be received by the non-profit organization, such as JPII, at some time in the future, often at the end of the donor’s lifetime. Legacy Giving is also commonly referred to as Planned Giving since a donor “plans out” this type of gift in advance. If a donor has a Will or Trust, the donor may list the intention to make a Legacy/Planned Gift in such documentation. If a donor does not have a Will or Trust, the donor can work with an attorney or financial advisor to make the Legacy/ Planned Gift known and documented. In either situation, if you wish to remember JPII with a Legacy/Planned Gift or if you have already done so, please contact Director of Advancement Michelle Barber so she can document your intentions and ensure your wishes are known to JPII.

While most Legacy/Planned Gifts are made through a bequest in a donor’s Will and/or Trust, there are many financial tools that allow a donor to make a significant gift during their lifetime and benefit from tax breaks and other financial benefits during the donor’s lifetime. If this is of interest to you, please contact Director of Advancement Michelle Barber to connect with suggested allied partners who will assist you in devising and executing a beneficial plan.

117 Caldwell Drive

Hendersonville, Tennessee 37075

615-822-2375

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL, OCTOBER 24

Homecoming on the Hill - JPII vs. Columbia Central

5:30 p.m. AlumKnight Tailgate @ the Alumni Tent food, beverages, and JPII swag for you and your family

7:00 p.m. Kick Off free tickets for alumni and family

8:00 p.m. Halftime Reception for AlumKnights @ the KAC Room food, beverages, and JPII swag for you and your family

9:00 p.m. Post-Game Gathering @ The Rudder restaurant for all AlumKnights (and a guest) and AlumKnight Parents

The Rudder - 126 River Road, Hendersonville

REUNION WEEKEND, OCTOBER 24-25

Classes of 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020 will have private reunion events planned by the Alumni Office and the Class Agents.

Visit the JPII alumni webpages to update contact information, register for events, and find reunion information.

www.jp2prep.org/community-life/alumni

Facebook & Instagram: jp2prep_alumni