For the first time in a decade, a 7th grade homeroom won the coveted Turkey Bowl trophy. Read about it on page 21.
MISSION
The mission of Trinity School is to educate students in transitional kindergarten to grade twelve within the framework of Christian faith and conviction—teaching the classical tools of learning; providing a rich yet unhurried education; and communicating truth, goodness, and beauty.
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Better Together
Iam deeply grateful to Nathan Clendenin and his team, who put The Column together twice a year. It’s a lot of work, and this is hardly the only thing Nathan does around school. He has a superb team to help him, especially Lynn Hand, our consummate editor and proofer. Katie Stokes does a fabulous job with the layout every time, and Nathan and others have recruited many voices to write the pieces and to be the featured subjects for these editions.
Many of our families—especially our alumni parents and former students—have told me how much they appreciate the chance to read about what is happening at the school they left behind, which made such an important impact on them. We’re grateful that we can feature some of these alums, like Jack Winters and Naomi Pridgen, in this edition of The Column.
It is a cliché to say that we are “better together.” Clichés get dissed—but not because they are untrue. It is because, being true, they get repeated so often that they lose their authenticity and the powerful impact of their meaning.
In this issue, you’ll get a glimpse of many ways in which the Trinity community is supporting one another (in our wonderful after-school program headed by Joy Campbell); challenging one another to give generously and selflessly (the stories of the Mansfields and the Smith-Heyman partnership); caring for one another (Seth Parrish’s account of the Upper School’s Peer Relationship Building Club); and banding together with one another to serve others (Alec Rittgers’s account of the seventh graders’ learning about the Bible, the challenges of modern refugees, and the meaning of service through their work on the Spring Forest Farm).
On page 22 you'll learn about a seventh grade field trip of Kingdomoriented service.
But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be?
As it is, there are many parts, but one body.
1 Corinthians 12:18-20
I like to think that we are all better for being part of this Gospel community of learning that we call Trinity School. I know I am. For three decades, I have been challenged, inspired, supported, taught, corrected, and encouraged by the kinds of people you see featured in this magazine. This includes many of you who spent significant time here at Trinity and have since moved on to other things. In 2025 (our 30th year!) we are planning a number of ways to bring you back to Trinity,
to help you reconnect, so that we can all give thanks for the ways that Trinity has made us all better together.
Non Nobis, Chip Denton, Head of School
Dr. Denton cheers as first graders wake Leo in this beloved Lower School tradition during Opening Chapel on August 23, 2024.
A Verse to Guide Us
Our seniors gather at the beginning of each school year to select Trinity’s school verse. They start with an array of scripture passages and, in collaboration with their peers and guided by the faculty and Dr. Denton, they choose the verse that will guide our school for the year. Then, during Opening Chapel, the verse is unveiled to the entire school. Read some remarks from a few of the seniors about what this verse means to them.
And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
Colossians 3:14-15 (ESV)
COLE MATHESON
“It's almost like putting on clothes. We go out every single day and choose love as we’re leaving the house to go love our neighbors, our friends, and our family.”
MADELEINE HUGHES
“When I feel hated or disliked or undermined or belittled, I just feel stuck. Whenever I’ve felt loved and supported, I feel like I can do anything.”
MICAH JOHNSON
“This election year there’s going to be a lot of conflict….This verse inputs love first. I think that’s a really big deal for us.”
LILY SEN
“I think when you start to focus on yourself less, there’s more room for you to look at other people. And when you do that, you can really start to appreciate and love the people around you.”
SOLANO BARBEITO
“Just putting on a lens of being thankful opens up the world to all the good that we have.”
HAZEL BOUILLE
“The peace of Christ ruling in my heart means, to me, letting go of control—that there’s nothing more that you can do, and it’s all up to God. And I feel like that brings us another level of peace.”
From Good to Great: Celebrating Strong Peer Connections in Trinity’s Upper School
By DR. SETH PARRISH
In an age of constant connectivity, many American teens still struggle with feelings of isolation, longing for the deeper, face-to-face connections that help them navigate the challenges of growing up. If you’ve been a parent of a teen in recent years, you’ll know firsthand the struggles with anxiety, pressures to succeed, and overall angst that many teens face.
Yet almost immediately on beginning my work at Trinity, I was impressed by the number of students who evidently knew their peers well and who cared about them deeply. I can sincerely say that some of the deep divisions that often exist in independent schools barely exist here. That is because both faculty and students are at work to ensure continued growth.
This year, that continued growth is fostered by Trinity School’s Peer Relationship Building Club, which was founded out of the Making Caring Common initiative, created by the Harvard Graduate School of Education. The organization aims to enhance social and emotional growth and offers research-based strategies to foster empathy, inclusivity, and ethical development among students.
The Peer Relationship Building Club utilizes these resources to strengthen student connections. Through surveys and structured activities, the program encourages gratitude, support, and community building. Their work is setting a foundation that will further empower students
and faculty with actionable strategies to ensure everyone feels seen, supported, and valued.
Under the leadership of our college counselor, Karman Kent, the Peer Relationship Building Club at Trinity was founded this year and is led by Maddie Hughes ’25, Elijah Wong ’26, Audrey Palmer ’26, and Jack Larson ’25. Maddie shares that she is investing energies in this club because of gratitude to this community that has blessed her so much. She says, “I want to give everyone in my community the ability to strengthen and form strong relationships that may carry on beyond their years at Trinity.”
Peer Relationship Building Club
The group just completed a student survey created by Making Caring Common, which aims to teach students strategies that improve social and emotional health in the community at large. Students can be proactive in making meaningful connections, providing educators with actionable strategies to effectively develop students’ gratitude and empathy.
The data from this survey demonstrate that the majority of Trinity Upper School students feel comfortable seeking help from their peers and their teachers. Notably, 97% of students report that they have at least three friends with whom they would share if they were facing difficulties. This underscores the reality that we have a strong net-
work of collaboration and care in the Upper School. Additionally, the student survey found that boys and girls feel equally supported within their social networks. The survey further examined peer support across different racial and ethnic identities and revealed that students from all backgrounds had very similar results.
These connection points are integral to Trinity’s mission, fostering a culture of empathy and collaboration that empowers students to thrive both personally and academically. When students know that they themselves are not the center point of their universe, when they see a good beyond themselves, they are freed to focus on doing their part to make the lives of those around them better.
Last year a similar survey was given to the Upper School faculty. It addressed faculty views of their connections with students and yielded quality data regarding the number of adult touchpoints in the lives of each student. Our teachers recognize that their responsibility as role models who help children become caring members of a community is as important as teaching curriculum content well. In her book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic, Jennifer Wallace writes, “Students learn best from teachers they feel close to, and teachers play an essential role in buffering against achievement stress.”
She goes on to state that parents do well to actively build a partnership with educators so that their child can be
best supported. Several Trinity faculty members recently attended an event at UNC–Chapel Hill at which Lisa Damour spoke about the current adolescent mental health crisis. She shared that the importance of adult allies in the lives of children cannot be overstated. Those allies are everywhere at Trinity.
We are encouraged that the survey results highlight the exceptional quality of peer relationships within our Upper School community and show that student and faculty views on the subject align. Still, future success in this area depends on the ongoing commitment of groups like the Peer Relationship Building Club and the dedicated work of our faculty advisors and counselors, who ensure that Trinity’s environment is one in which everyone’s needs are seen.
While we have been largely successful, Trinity is far from perfect, and there is work yet to do. The Peer Relationship Building Club plans to deeply analyze the survey data to identify patterns and utilize what they find to foster further growth. Their aim is to develop an action plan that includes sharing findings with faculty through presentations and training sessions. This plan will create an annual cycle of assessment and improvement, ensuring that together we continue to enhance student relationships and foster a supportive school environment.
SETH PARRISH, Trinity’s Director of Upper School, has served in a number of Christian schools in various leadership and instructional roles. He relishes the privilege of leading the gifted and passionate Upper School faculty and staff here at Trinity, and he has just wrapped up his first season of leading the Varsity Cross Country team. Early on weekend mornings, you are likely to find him on a trail alongside the Eno River.
From left, Jack Larson ’25, Elijah Wong ’26, Maddie Hughes ’25, Audrey Palmer ’26, and Mrs. Kent pose for a portrait in the HUB.
Shared Masterpieces: How Collaboration Inspires and Connects
By JANET RAY
CREATING ART begins with the daunting task of turning nothing into something beautiful. The process often feels chaotic at first, but through collaboration, artists can push past fear and uncover new possibilities. As the Scripture reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:18-20, God has placed each part in the body just as he intended: though many, together they form one body. In the same way, collaboration in the arts fosters the exchange of ideas, strengthens relationships, and builds community, transforming individual talents into collective masterpieces.
(left) Joelle Marbury, a first-grade student, practices the violin after school with her fellow budding musicians.
(top) Lower School thespians rehearse Annie Kids after school in the theatre room.
(bottom) Seniors Sadie Shoenfelt and Lily Sen direct Annie Kids as part of their senior capstone project.
Bringing Annie Kids to Life
Sadie Shoenfelt and Lily Sen are bringing their love for theatre to life as co-directors of the Lower School musical, Annie Kids, as part of their Senior Capstone project. Reflecting on their journey, they shared, “We’ve both been deeply involved in theatre throughout high school and want to inspire a growing enthusiasm for performing in the Lower School, sharing the joy we’ve found in Trinity’s theatre department.” This project has not only allowed Sadie and Lily to embrace their God-given talents but also to nurture the budding gifts of our future generation of thespians. You can see Annie Kids come to life on stage in February. More info and tickets can be found at https://tsdch.booktix.com.
Strings in Harmony
The Lower School Strings ensemble is a large group this year, creating an opportunity for Upper School students to step in and lend their talents. Emma Kirk and Bethany Underwood answered the call, dedicating their study hall to mentoring our youngest string players with love and encouragement each Monday afternoon. Music teacher Luke Ferguson has also stepped in to support Trinity’s instrumental teacher, Martin Stam. Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Ferguson shares, “Watching the budding musicianship of the Lower School students playing together is a joy. When Mr. Stam announces it’s so good we need to record it, the violins, violas, and cellos come together, creating something truly beautiful.”
(top) Nearly 40 Lower School students assemble to practice after school in the band room. (middle) Mr. Stam leads the strings group while recording on his phone and keeping beat on the drums while Mr. Ferguson joins in on the keyboard. (bottom) Ms. Sippy, the teacher for Technical Theatre, is joined by Eric Underwood and Landon Klingaman, who jumped in to help with the class this semester.
Building Together
In a wonderful collaboration, Upper School teachers Erick Underwood and Landon Klingaman are bringing their expertise to Ms. Sippy’s Technical Theatre class as students craft the stage for Murder on the Orient Express With their deep knowledge of construction and problem solving, Mr. Underwood and Mr. Klingaman have guided students in building an intricate, large-scale set. Their efforts have turned challenges into opportunities, helping students transform imagination into reality. Anderson Ortiz Rangel, a member of the class, captures the impact of their presence: “Honestly, without their support, we wouldn’t be where we are right now. Both Mr. Klingaman and Mr. Underwood are so funny—they make the room a whole lot brighter.” Another student, Larkin Alvis,
remarks, “Their kindness and help has motivated us all to perform to the best of our ability.” This kind of mentorship exemplifies the Trinity ethos, where learning is handson, joyful, and fueled by the creativity and connections between teachers and students.
(top) Mr. Ferguson and Ms. Holmes work together to lead a rehearsal with students in the 7th grade. (middle photos) The 6th and 7th grade performance of the 70s hit, “Blame it on the Boogie,” was a crowd favorite. (bottom left page) Larkin Alvis and Anderson Ortiz Rangel work together on painting the set for Murder on the Orient Express.
Honestly, without their support, we wouldn’t be where we are right now.
Middle School in Motion
Middle School students are learning the art of collaboration through their fall music rehearsals, guided by choreographer Sarah Catherine Jaques and music teacher Jessica Holmes . During practice, students actively help one another, calling out positions and cues to ensure everyone stays on track. Jessica Holmes, the director, observes, “It’s inspiring to see students working together to keep the flow of the performance. It requires great focus, which isn’t always easy for Middle School students.” Luke Ferguson complements the process with live piano accompaniment, infusing each session with energy and enthusiasm. Together, the students and faculty are building a production that showcases the joy and creativity of working as one.
Much like the body described in 1 Corinthians, each part of these collaborations plays a unique and vital role. Together, they create something far greater—a living masterpiece of truth, goodness, and beauty reflecting God’s glorious design.
JANET RAY, Trinity’s Director of Arts, knew from her first year at Charles E. Jordan High School that teaching was her calling. After a transformative student-teaching experience at her alma mater and earning her degree from UNC–Chapel Hill, she launched her career at Carrington Junior High. Janet took a 12-year break to focus on family and then returned to the classroom in 1999 at Trinity School.
Guided by her deep faith, she draws daily inspiration from Isaiah 40:31, a testament to the strength and resilience she brings to her role.
Raising Team Players: Supporting Youth through Sports and Faith
In September, at the beginning of the Lighthouse Parent Education series, I invited MK Harrah (UNC Study Center and former UNC field hockey player), Anna Quarles (parent of Jamison and Emma and Middle School Girls Soccer coach), and Naomi Pridgen (class of 2020 and track and field athlete at UNCG) to talk about how to navigate the youth sports landscape. Their wisdom, insight, and sanctified common sense were extremely valuable. We share some of their discussion here.
What has been your sports journey?
MK: Sports were a big part of my life growing up. I started playing soccer in first grade and field hockey in fourth grade and played both of these sports competitively all through middle school and high school. In eighth grade, I chose to join a club field hockey team. I knew at that point in my sports career that I had a better chance at going D1 for field hockey than soccer. The Lord opened the door for me to come to UNC, and I am so grateful. My life was changed at UNC. Through the trials and hardships in my sport, the Lord showed me that he is enough and will forever be enough. Sports will fail us. School will fail us. People will fail us, but Jesus never will. Jesus is what our hearts long for and crave. Sports are a good gift from God, but I learned that making your sport your identity will leave you empty. Playing sports taught me resiliency, perseverance, grit, humility, the importance of being on time, toughness, how to be a good friend and teammate, and how to be coachable. I’m grateful for this.
Anna: I grew up playing soccer in the area—I have pictures of myself playing on the same fields that my kids now practice on. I played for my middle school, high school, and club soccer teams. It was not a goal of mine to play in college, but when I was applying to schools it became clear that it might be a possibility. Playing soccer throughout my childhood provided me with friendships,
confidence, and a first glance at the idea that I might be capable of more. It was not until college, or even after, that I realized how much of what I did on the field helped with life off the field—like managing time and prioritizing needs.
Naomi: I’ve been playing sports for as long as I can remember. As a “lifer” at Trinity, I participated in Girls on the Run in Lower School, competed on the Middle School Girls Basketball teams, and in Upper School played on the Varsity Girls Basketball team all four years. I also ran track starting in my sophomore year and served as the manager of the Varsity Volleyball team for one season. I ended up walking onto UNC-Greensboro’s Division 1 track and field program my sophomore year and competed during the winter and spring seasons. I’m currently pursuing a career in sports broadcasting, working collegiate sports and national broadcasts.
What did you enjoy most about high school sports?
Naomi: My favorite part of high school sports was supporting my fellow student-athletes during away games. Whether the boys and girls basketball teams were traveling together or everyone went after school to a local away game, [the opportunities to] support other students during those award-winning highs and heartbreaking losses are the memories I cherish.
Mary Kathryn “MK” Harrah College Athlete
Naomi Pridgen ’20 Trimity Alum | College Athlete
What advice or words of wisdom would you give parents today?
MK: I would encourage parents to show up for their kids at their sporting events. I remember how much it meant to me when my parents came to my games, and when they didn’t, I was discouraged.
Anna: Parents should make it a habit to step back from the day-to-day aspects of their child’s sport and consider the big picture of what they want their student to gain. We can get so caught up in minutes played, points scored, or making the next best team that our kids view their sport entirely from this perspective. Our kids are growing and changing, so we certainly can celebrate their wins while also making space to celebrate their character, commitment, and goodness no matter the score.
Naomi: My biggest advice for parents would be to support your student where they best show their talents. For some, it may be as a starting player on a Trinity team. For others, it may be on a club team in a sport not offered at Trinity. In many cases it may not be participating as an athlete at all—it may be serving as a coaching assistant or a photographer, or working the scoreboard or as part of the grounds crew. If your student enjoys sports, tap into their interest and encourage them to be involved in other ways if competing in one sport may not be the best fit.
Anna
Quarles
MS
Soccer Coach | Parent
And remember that, at the end of the day, this should be a time of enjoyment.
How can parents support student-athletes’ mental health?
Anna: We are fortunate that there is now more focus on, and resources available to care for, our kids’ mental health in sports. The time and energy that students (and their parents!) put into practices and games can make their sport part of their identity. The downside of this is that when they don’t play, lose the game, don’t make the team, or have a season-ending injury, students can feel like a failure or not know who they are anymore.
Naomi: As a former D1 athlete, I completely understand the seriousness of athletics in someone’s life. My encouragement to parents is to remind your student to think holistically about athletics. There is so much more than sports, and if we focus too hard on athletics, we become extremely vulnerable when games don't go according to plan or injuries occur. Remind your students that participating in athletics is a privilege, not a right, and that playing or serving with a happy and grateful heart is of the most importance! Reminding your student to think holistically will also help your student to lead with and demonstrate sportsmanship, which always matters more than the sport itself.
SOPHIE SMITH serves as Trinity’s Athletic Director, overseeing three seasons of interscholastic athletics for over 30 teams and 30 coaches. She has her Certification in Athletic Administration (CAA) and is currently coordinating a Quality Program Assessment of our athletic programs as part of her Certified Masters in Athletic Administration (CMAA) through the NIAAA. She especially enjoys working with the Student-Athlete Leadership Team, our Athletic Department interns, and our coaching staff.
capstone to career
jay winterS
jay's path from trinity to the atlanta hawks
By NATHAN CLENDENIN
Jay
Winters, a Trinity School alumnus (’17), has always had a passion for sports. Growing up with parents who worked in Duke’s athletics program, he spent his childhood attending countless basketball and football games. At Trinity, he played basketball and golf, while also picking up lacrosse outside of school. Yet
it wasn’t until his Senior Capstone project that he began to see how these interests could turn into a career.
During their senior year, students begin working on their Capstone project, which represents the final step in completing the arc of their Trinity education. “I was a big history buff at the time, and I originally thought about doing something around Revolutionary War history for my Capstone,” Jay recalls. But as the idea evolved, he pivoted to something more personal. “Sports were always in the back of my mind,” he says. “I grew up around all these games, so I thought about doing something in that space.”
Jay’s project focused on creating a sports reporting system for Trinity’s athletic teams. He developed a system to report scores, post rosters, and write recaps of the games. He wasn’t sure he would enjoy the writing part, as the types of essays required for his Humanities classes weren’t his cup of tea. But as he began to apply his writing to something he was more passionate about, everything changed. In his Capstone reflection, he wrote, “Words almost flowed off my hands like I had never experienced before, and I felt a certain type of energy going into my writing that cannot be explained.”
Jay Winters’ 2017 senior capstone in sports media started him down a path that has most recently led him to Atlanta where he serves as PR coordinator for the Atlanta Hawks G League affiliate team, the College Park Skyhawks.
Jay even helped set up a Twitter account for Trinity sports, where he had his first taste of social media management. “One of the highlights was when Perry Dickson hit a game-winner, and I tweeted about it. I tagged the News & Observer, and it got some decent run.”
The experience of blending sports and media was a turning point for Jay that guided him after Trinity. He went on to Virginia Tech for college, where he enrolled in their Sports Media and Analytics program. “My sophomore year, they had just created this new major, and it was perfect for me. It was small, maybe 20 or 30 kids, but we got to do everything from writing to play-by-play com-
mentary.” He and the media team got to put their skills to the test during his senior year when the pandemic hit. He was one of only a handful of people allowed at the games. Feeling the pressure and the excitement mixed with the importance of his reporting, he started to see how he could make a fulfilling career out of sports journalism.
Jay went on to do an internship with the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, which turned into a full-time position, and he’s now living the dream. As the PR Coordinator for the Hawks G League affiliate team, the College Park Skyhawks, Jay is immersed in every aspect of the team’s media relations, from distributing game notes to handling press during games. “I’m doing what I love,” he says. “The work I did at Trinity, creating that reporting system and working with social media, definitely helped prepare me for this.”
Jay’s story shows how pursuing a Capstone project based on a personal passion can shape a career trajectory. “It started as just a project, but it’s crazy to see how much it’s influenced where I am today.”
Giving Beyond Today
“We need to give joyfully and believe that God will provide for it.”
The Mansfields during a family trip to the mountains. From left to right: Tracy, Henry, Miller, Charlotte and Zack.
(right page) The Mansfields in their New York City years.
Zack and Tracy Mansfield’s Trinity story began long before their children Miller, Charlotte, and Henry came to our school—in fact, even before their kids were born. In 2007, the second year of the Upper School, Chip Denton needed some extra staff to help him, and Tracy became the new Special Assistant to the Headmaster. Her responsibilities included teaching P.E., serving as assistant coach for our Varsity Girls Basketball team, and helping with things like the dedication of the South Building and Gold Gym. Tracy loved her new job. She says, “I got to be a part of the Trinity community, which was very special….It was my favorite job!”
But after Tracy’s first year at Trinity, an exciting new job opportunity for Zack led to their move to Manhattan. They began attending Redeemer Presbyterian, Tim Keller’s church, just 10 blocks from their apartment. One Saturday, they decided to participate in Redeemer’s service project at the Bowery Mission. While there, says Zack, “we met a couple that was also serving, who invited us to be a part of their small group through Redeemer… and that became our small group.” Redeemer started to feel like their church home.
The following year, Redeemer launched a capital campaign to advance the Gospel in New York City. Pastor Keller reminded the congregation that Redeemer was there because over the previous 20 years others had invested their time, talents, and gifts—even though, with the transience of city life, those early members might not have benefited from what their gifts would provide. Keller told the church that this was an opportunity to connect
with how God wants us to give: generously, joyfully, and selflessly, without thought about what we might get back.
This way of thinking was deeply formative for the Mansfields. After talking together and praying, they made a multiyear commitment to Redeemer’s capital campaign. It was a stretch, but they knew God was calling them to do this. Then, less than a year later, Zack and Tracy moved back to North Carolina. What would they do about their commitment to give?
They decided they would fulfill their pledge. “We just went back to the sermon, and we said, ‘This is what we’ve been called to,’” shared Zack. “We need to give joyfully and believe that God will provide for it”—and he did. Zack and Tracy felt a tremendous sense of joy when their pledge was finally completed. The experience was life-changing for them in how they think about giving, even today.
“This has really directed how we want to look at giving,” Tracy noted, including the giving of their time, talents, and resources to Trinity School. “I want other kids to get the opportunity that my kids have had.” The Mansfields still struggle with some of the same questions and challenges that others face about giving. But they’ve thought about Tim Keller’s sermon, and the paths on which God has taken them since then, many times over the last 15 years. Zack sums it up well: “It all ends up tying back to a bigger thing that God is doing in our lives that we had no idea of. And when you get glimmers of that, and you get to see that, it’s the coolest thing in the world.”
LYNN HAND has worked at Trinity since 2006 and currently serves on Trinity’s communications team in the Advancement Office. The mother of Trinity alumnae Sarah ’11 and Rachel ’16, Lynn and her family have been part of the Trinity community since 1999. When she's not at Trinity, she loves traveling and watching the dolphins swimming in the sounds of the North Carolina coast.
From Competitors to Partners
The Story behind Smith & Heymann Orthodontics
By NATHAN CLENDENIN
In business, there’s an old saying: “Don’t go into business with friends, or you’ll lose either the business or the friend.” Many entrepreneurs warn that mixing personal relationships with professional ventures can strain or even ruin friendships. The journey of Gavin Heymann and Dempsey Smith didn’t start with friendship—but now, that’s exactly where they’ve ended up.
They weren’t close friends when they decided to merge their orthodontic practices. In fact, they were competitors. “We knew each other, but we were colleagues and competitors in town. It wasn’t adversarial at all,” says Dempsey. Gavin adds, “We would see each other at orthodontic meetings or Trinity events, but we weren’t buddies or anything.”
Their partnership started over lunch, where Dempsey proposed an idea. “I figured, I don’t need full-time help, and maybe he doesn’t either. What if we come together and bring on someone else to split the workload?” It wasn’t an overnight decision; it took about five years for the partnership to come together, but by 2019, Smith Orthodontics became Smith & Heymann Orthodontics.
Just a few months after the merger, the honeymoon came to a screeching halt when the Covid-19 pandemic hit. During that time, the two relied on each other to make tough decisions. “From how to handle infection control to figuring out what to do with our team—whether to furlough them or keep them on—it was a lot to navigate,” Gavin reflects. The two developed a routine of meeting on Fridays to tackle these challenges. “Fridays became our ‘strategy day,’ when we could get together and go over everything we couldn’t address during the week,”
(above) Dr. J. Dempsey Smith, Dr. Katya Skillestad, and Dr. Gavin Heymann make up the team at Smith & Heymann Orthodontics.
(left) The Heymann and Smith families enjoy vacationing together.
Gavin says. “That day became crucial for making decisions.” Dempsey concurs: “We both told each other, ‘I’m so grateful we’re doing this together.' It was overwhelming for both of us, but it would’ve been even more overwhelming for one person.”
Despite the stress of navigating a business during a global pandemic, their partnership grew stronger. “Change is hard, but this has been the best professional decision I’ve ever made,” says Gavin. The merger not only helped them navigate the pandemic, but it also led to the growth of their practice, which now includes four locations across Durham, Chapel Hill, Mebane, and Roxboro.
Looking back, they see how much their shared values have influenced the success of their business. “Our culture is built on doing the right thing for our patients and
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.
ECCLESIASTES 4
their families,” says Gavin. “If you do that, everything else will take care of itself.” That philosophy has helped them build a business that prioritizes both patient care and community.
Gavin and Dempsey’s families have grown closer through the years, often vacationing together with kids during Trinity’s spring break. “We weren’t friends when we started this,” Gavin reflects, “but we became friends through the business.”
The Smith & Heymann story reminds us of the verse in Ecclesiastes 4, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Truly they are better together.
NATHAN CLENDENIN serves in the Advancement Office as Trinity’s Assistant Director of Advancement for Marketing and Communications. He's the advisor for the yearbook, edits The Column magazine, and teaches Photography II: Digital Storytelling. A husband, father of four children, and Trinity parent, he loves a great podcast and can be found listening while training for the annual Blue Ridge Relay.
The Smiths and Heymanns enjoy a Friday night Carolina football game together.
Seventh Grade Homeroom Wins the Turkey Bowl for the First Time in a Decade!
Congratulations to Mr. Arant and Mr. Buchanan’s seventh grade homeroom for clinching the Turkey Bowl championship! For the first time in a decade, a team from the seventh grade won in the final against an eighth grade team. The atmosphere was filled with spirited rivalry, as the entire seventh grade chanted the homeroom’s color, "Light! Blue!" In a thrilling match that ended with a close score of 2–1, Mr. Arant commented, “I could not be more impressed with how our homeroom played and carried themselves. Nearly every student had a big kick, or made a great play in the field. In the championship game, the team showed nerves of steel when the pressure was on. I’m so proud of them!” Student Blake Oleson says, “Besides winning, my favorite part of the tournament was seeing how well each of my teammates did.”
Mr. Dicks and Mr. Rittgers’s eighth-grade homeroom team represented their class with commendable spirit and effort. For the players on the losing side, the end of the match seemed to unfold in slow motion. Some faces went blank with shock and disbelief, while others offered their shoulders to friends wiping away tears of disappointment. Despite the heartbreak, they lost with grace, congratulating their opponents with honor.
Reflecting on the victory, Mrs. Stepp, a seasoned Middle School teacher, shared her thoughts: “It’s a rare privilege for a 7th-grade homeroom to win, especially knowing some of these students have the chance to win two years in a row.” Regardless of the victor, the Turkey Bowl delivers excitement and camaraderie for everyone involved.
God, Farm, and Community
By ALEC RITTGERS
On Tuesday, October 15, Trinity’s seventh grade swapped the classroom for a farm. Students donned worn-in sweatshirts, grass-stained jeans, and eager smiles as they arrived at Spring Forest Farm. Dr. Elaine Heath, the Abbess of the monastic community that lives at the farm in Hillsborough, welcomed the grade and told them about the farm’s mission. “Spring Forest supports refugee resettlement through sponsorships, temporary housing, and an ESL program. We also donate fresh produce to refugee families, host a range of spiritual formation ministries, children’s programs, and much more.” Trinity’s seventh graders, who have started to wrestle with how to live out the Scripture’s many admonitions to love the foreigner, participated in the dayto-day, mundane tasks that are required to enable the farm to carry out its mission. Pulling weeds, painting decks, washing the farm’s shuttle bus, and repairing part of the barn are unremarkable on the surface. Within the farm’s mission and Trinity’s commitment to nurturing students as intellectual, moral, and aesthetic beings, these ordinary acts take on profound significance.
Returning from summer break, seventh-grade students in Old Testament classes revisited their comprehensive understanding of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible. This review focused on key sections in Leviticus and Deuteronomy, highlighting laws on property ownership (Leviticus 25:23-28), welcoming foreigners (Leviticus 19:33-34), and caring for widows (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Students explored how the God of Israel commanded his people to protect and show compassion to the vulnerable, including foreigners.
After they reviewed the Mosaic Law’s instructions, the book of Ruth provided students with an opportunity to see how the Israelites lived out these commands through a narrative that took place amidst a less-than-glamorous period of Israel’s history, the time of the judges. In the story, the Israelite Boaz provides food for the Moabite Ruth and allows her to glean in his field. Boaz’s offer to Ruth to glean with other women also welcomes her into an existing community of those whom we might today describe as refugees. Through Boaz’s initial act of kind-
FIELD TRIP TO SPRING FOREST springforest.org
HILLSBOROUGH, NC
Seventh grade students Maggie Joyce and Becket Thompson pull weeds in the sweet potato fields at Spring Forest Farm.
ness and Naomi’s boldness, Ruth, who had seemingly lost everything, came to be included not only in Israel’s immediate community, but also in the lineage of Jesus. When the seventh grade students encountered Ruth’s story, it was a joy to see them make connections between Scripture and their work on the farm.
Spring Forest Farm serves the refugee community by distributing community-supported agriculture (CSA) boxes filled with fruits, vegetables, and eggs from the farm. Once the boxes are filled at the farm, they are delivered to designated locations throughout the Triangle. Refugees experiencing food insecurity and others who have paid for a box subscription can pick up a box in Chapel Hill, Durham, Hillsborough, or Raleigh.
As the students reflected on their experiences, they quickly realized that the farm and refugee community were not the only beneficiaries of their work: they began to see the ways that they themselves were changed as a result of their experiences. Maggie Joyce shared, “I found that I was able to work more diligently and to do my best because I was doing the work for others rather than myself.” After harvesting sweet potato leaves, Emelia McMurray reflected that “at Spring Forest we helped people by gathering some of the ingredients for dishes that might make refugees feel more at home. By doing this work at Spring Forest we felt more comfortable… helping others, which God calls us to do.”
In addition to harvesting, students assisted with other projects that help the farm run smoothly. One group of students painted a pantry that is used to store food for the Wednesday community lunches. Charlotte Mansfield found a tremendous amount of meaning in this task:
Even though I got covered in paint from head to toe, the experience was totally worth it. I was changed by this field trip experience at Spring Forest through learning that even little things or chores make a vast impact on many people coming here from other countries, and I also learned that it’s fun doing work with classmates—many hands make light work!
The task of painting may seem like something that only changes the finish of a wooden pantry, but painting in community, for a community, infuses meaning into a seemingly mundane and rote task.
The work that Trinity’s seventh grade engaged in provided immediate, practical help for the farm and the community it serves. The folks at the farm expressed their gratitude for the cheerful, eager, and selfless help they received. However, as I reflected more about the day at the farm, I realized that by serving, students discovered something about themselves. While the students may not use these words, I believe that they are starting to grasp that being a citizen of the kingdom of God is not a passive citizenship. Quite the opposite, in fact: Citizenship in the kingdom of God should lead us to a life of engagement in the Church’s mission. I am grateful that by our partnering with Spring Forest Farm, a local community could be served in dignifying and loving ways. It is my hope and prayer that for Trinity students, this experience will serve as an invitation to a lifelong pattern of kingdom-oriented service.
I was changed by this field trip experience at Spring Forest through learning that even little things or chores make a vast impact on many people coming here from other countries.
ALEC RITTGERS began teaches Bible and history to seventh-grade students at Trinity. He enjoys helping students view the world through the lens of faith, a perspective shaped by his upbringing and his time at Wheaton College. When not in the classroom, Alec coaches soccer, plays guitar (repeating the same three chords), works on his master’s degree, and spends time with his wife, Bailey.
KNOWN and LOVED | Trinity School
All Together in After-School
By JOY CAMPBELL
TRINITY
NEIGHBORHOOD
Established in 2007
STUDENTS
Enrolled in Trinity Neighborhood this year
SPLASH DAY
Considered the favorite day for most students enrolled in Trinity Neighborhood
Trinity Neighborhood is more than a place for students to go once the bell rings—it’s a vibrant community where learning and faith meet. I like to think of it as a melting pot, where students of all Lower School ages come together, united as one. For parents, this is a reliable haven, and for students, it’s a place to feel safe, grow, and belong. Together, we work toward a single goal: giving God the glory in everything we do.
Trinity students work together in after-school to make the time meaningful. Each day before snack, a different student leads their group in prayer. For our students in grades 4–6, we also introduce a Bible verse of the day, helping them connect faith to daily life. Our dedicated
team ensures that students grow by living out the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, while learning to discern right from wrong.
During after-school, the children often meet peers they may not have interacted with during regular school hours, giving them the chance to form new friendships and step out of their comfort zones. I’ve seen students start the program feeling shy, but after just a week, they gain a sense of security and belonging. These relationships allow students to learn from one another and grow together. In fact, one of the hardest parts of the day for after-school workers is getting students to leave, because the children
Knowing that I can leave her here, in very good hands, while she’s enjoying herself, makes things easier for our family.
are always eager to stay when their parents arrive. Ashley Cade, parent of fourth grader Will, says, “Home is one of his favorite places because he gets to relax and be on his iPad. But when I come to pick him up to take him home, he doesn’t want to leave after-school.”
Here in Trinity Neighborhood, we are deeply grateful for Trinity teachers who go the extra mile for their students all day long, whether it’s playing a game, doing a craft, or staying behind in the classroom for one-on-one time. Yet the involvement of other students makes our afternoons especially rich. Each year, Upper School students volunteer in Trinity Neighborhood, assisting the children with homework or just spending quality time with them. Additionally, some fifth and sixth grade after-school students lend a helping hand to the children in the younger grades (TK–1), whether by reading to them, tying shoes, or helping our assistant, Leslie Alkins, with other tasks. These acts of kindness provide vital academic support for our children. “Mrs. Leslie” has been a cornerstone of Trinity Neighborhood for nine years, creating a loving, caring, and protective environment where students feel safe. She shares, “I pray that I set an example for them through my actions, and that God guides me in how I speak and work with my kids. I try to be encouraging and loving so they will enjoy coming to after-school.”
After-school programs have always been vital for working parents. These programs are not just convenient but essential, because they allow parents to maintain full-time work schedules without worrying about the safety and well-being of their children. Jon Marin, father of TK student Reagan Marin, shares, “My typical workday doesn’t end until 5 p.m., and knowing that I can leave her here, in very good hands, while she’s enjoying herself, makes things easier for our family.” Joanna Krzmarzick, parent of fifth grader Kaitlyn Krzmarzick, adds, “After-school is
extremely important, considering Lower School gets out at 2:30. Since I can’t pick up my daughter at that time, it gives me the option to continue working. Plus, it provides a safe place where she can grow and is known and loved!”
This program is not just about providing after-school care— it’s about laying a foundation for a future in which students feel connected, supported, and loved.
Every day, we see the remarkable transformations that take place within our melting pot: children building lasting friendships, deepening their faith, and gaining the confidence they need to thrive. This program is not just about providing after-school care—it’s about laying a foundation for a future in which students feel connected, supported, and loved. We are honored to be a part of each family’s journey, offering a safe place where their children can flourish and grow in God’s love. As we continue to serve this vibrant community, we remain dedicated to one mission: working together for God’s glory, ensuring that every child who walks through our doors experiences the grace and blessings that come from being a part of something bigger than themselves.
JOY CAMPBELL is in her third year serving as Director of Trinity Neighborhood and Camp Programs, bringing over 15 years of experience to her role in our after-school program. She is currently pursuing a BA in Elementary Education. In addition to her passion for education, Joy enjoys spending time with her two sons and her family. She has a deep love for music, especially singing, which brings joy and creativity into her life.
Teacher's Pet
In the final installment of this three-part series, we explore the furry friends of the Upper School faculty and some staff that serve all our divisions.
Lori Winters’s Zuzu
Zuzu is a one-year-old golden retriever with boundless energy! Once a fluffy puppy, she’s now all about zooming around the backyard, stretching out, and chasing any ball in sight. Her favorite activities include sniff-filled trail hikes, greeting everyone on walks, and snuggling with her beloved Snuggle Puppy toy. Zuzu loves crunching ice cubes and sneaking cheese. Of course, she’s a bit of a sock thief and rug destroyer, but with that cute face, who could stay mad?
Mandy Rodgers-Gates’s Luna
The tabby cat Luna was a surprise from the start— mistaken for a girl, but his name stuck and suited him perfectly! This feisty yet affectionate kitty loves outdoor adventures but always makes time for cozy indoor snuggles. Luna eagerly awaits his daily tuna treat and keeps his family on their toes with a perfect mix of playfulness and sweetness.
Karman Kent’s Gracie
Gracie is more than a family dog—she’s a clever helper! She trained for service work with Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Paws (EENP), but her love of people and snacks made her a better fit for cuddles. Now four years old, Gracie enjoys swimming in the creek, playing with her pals George and Cocoa, and snuggling her Squishmallows. She can turn lights on, sense migraines, and fetch the mail, earning salmon skins as her favorite treat for all her hard work!
“God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good..” –Genesis 1:25 (NIV)
Lisa Chetelat’s Jake
Jake, the loyal German shepherd, was found abandoned in 2020 but now thrives with the Chetelat family. He’s always by his people’s side, carrying sticks, loving belly rubs, and eagerly awaiting peanut-butter treats. Jake adores car rides but gets impatient at stops! The Chetelats celebate his “gotcha month” yearly in October. With a white chest spot and a black circle-shaped tongue marking, Jake is truly one of a kind.
Lindsay Roseborough’s Lincoln Lincoln, the fun-loving English Labrador, took a week to find his perfect name. Now he’s stealing slippers, shoes, and hearts! His zoomies mean nothing is safe, especially not the vacuum, his sworn enemy. Lincoln wakes his family by jumping right on top of them. After 13 years with their black lab, London, the Roseboroughs love that Lincoln brings new joy and energy to their lives.
Krista Thomas’s Councillor Bronte and Mr. Forkle
Councillor Bronte and Mr. Forkle, the mischievous grey tabby duo, were adopted from a litter of five. Their markings make them hard to tell apart in low light despite their different shades of fur. Named after characters from Keeper of the Lost Cities, Bronte loves being carried around in a bucket, while Forkle, with his old-man charm, is always causing trouble. At 1½ years old, they chase bugs, steal socks, and ride in a baby-doll stroller, turning their water fountain into a splash zone!
Katie Graessel’s Noelle
Noelle, the playful yellow lab, lights up on every visit to her best friend Lady’s farm in Lexington, NC. Her tail wags as soon as she arrives, and she’s off to explore with Lady by her side. These two pals love sniffing out all the best smells and romping around the yard together. Farm visits highlight Noelle’s week, and she couldn’t ask for a better adventure buddy than Lady!
Abby Portillo’s Olive and Harley
Olive and Harley, the pampered pooches, are living their best lives! These hounds have no idea they’re dogs until they venture into the wild, where their inner royalty shines through. They enjoy every moment spent in their beloved treehouse at Mr. Dicks’s mountain cabin, soaking up the great outdoors while being treated like the princesses they are!
Dana Crain’s GOATS
Licorice, the momma goat, and her babies—now 2 years old—S’mores and JellyBean, are the Greatest of All Times backyard lawn mowers, taking care of the grass and poison ivy, oak, and sumac. When they’re not munching away, they love climbing and playing. Most of all, they enjoy eating—and their family adores them!
Beth Newman’s Heidi Meet Heidi, the nine-year-old spoodle who has mastered the art of being the center of attention! As the fifth member of the Newman family, she keeps everyone entertained with her sock-stealing skills, pawing at ya’ for attention, and barks aimed at the Amazon truck. Heidi will snuggle up to you for well-earned cuddles when she's not on window duty. She’s always ready for fun, but nothing beats a good cuddle session!
DANA CRAIN works in Trinity's IT department, specializing in solving tricky tech issues for teammates and students alike. Outside of school, she’s a knitting aficionado and avid camper who cherishes family time outdoors. Dana is also a poultry enthusiast, spending quality time in her backyard coop with her dogs, Spike and Matthew. One of her favorite reads is Gods, Wasps, and Stranglers, which delves into the enthralling narrative of fig trees, intertwining their ecological, historical, and mythological significance.
Trinity Ties Ease Transition to College
By NATHAN CLENDENIN
A Tale of Two Cities: Edinburgh and Stirling
For Annie DeGuzman ’23 and Emily Miller ’23, adjusting to college life abroad came with a familiar bonus—a Trinity connection just a train ride away. Annie, studying psychology through UNC–Chapel Hill’s Carolina Global Launch at the University of Stirling, found an anchor in Emily, a politics major at the University of Edinburgh.
“The second weekend I was there, one of my friends and I stayed in Emily’s dorm,” Annie recalls. “She showed us around campus and even took us to a little hot chocolate stand. I went back almost every time I was in Edinburgh.”
The visits have been both ways. When Emily visited Stirling, Annie introduced her to the stunning views around Stirling Castle. “It was amazing sharing our new worlds,” Annie says. “And, of course, telling each other’s friends all the fun and embarrassing stories from Trinity!”
These stories prove that while new beginnings can be daunting, the ties forged at Trinity have a way of showing up—whether across campuses, countries, or cups of hot chocolate.
Volunteer Connections at UT Knoxville
When Claire Kennedy ’22 left Trinity’s tight-knit graduating class of 52 for the sprawling city of Knoxville to attend the University of Tennessee, she didn’t just pack her suitcase—she brought a little bit of Trinity's heart with her. Fast forward a couple of years, and Sasha James ’24 received an offer letter from UT Knoxville. Navigating unfamiliar waters in an out-of-state school, she reached out to a fellow Trinity alum. “A familiar face or a ride to school can go a long way, so I’m happy to be that for Sasha!” said Claire, who quickly became more than just a friendly connection.
From doling out sage advice on Greek life to introducing Sasha to new friends, Claire became a guide and a cheerleader, embodying the “Go Vols!” spirit in every way. Sasha remarks, “I would have been so lost without her. Rushing in a sorority is so stressful, and I’m glad she was able to give me some great advice.”
And when Sasha found herself alone during Parents’ Weekend, Claire stepped up again, inviting her into the Kennedy family’s tailgate. “It was such a fun day, and I was so grateful for her!” says Sasha. As the cheers roared through the stadium that weekend, she realized something: community isn’t about the size of the campus or the crowd—it’s the people who invite you in, offer you a chair at their table, and make you feel like you belong.
Trinity Ties in Nashville
For Ryland Burgin ’24, having fellow Trinity alums Addie McKethan ’24 , Addie Thomason ’23 , and Timothy Oakley ’20 on campus has steadied the transition to life in the Music City. “It’s been great having that connection to home,” Ryland shares. “Even if I don’t see them every day, it’s a comforting thing when I do. Having them welcome me into the community has also helped the transition to college so much.”
That welcoming spirit extended to current Trinity senior Sadie Shoenfelt during a recent campus visit. Addie T. and Ryland shared their insights about life at Belmont and
gave Sadie a glimpse of what it’s like to navigate college with a network of friendly faces from home.
While their paths don’t cross daily, these four Trinity alums remind us that connection isn’t only about proximity— it’s about being there when it matters most. Ryland says, “I’m looking forward to doing the same for Trinity alums in the future.”
NATHAN CLENDENIN serves in the Advancement Office as Trinity’s Assistant Director of Advancement for Marketing and Communications. He's the advisor for the yearbook, edits The Column magazine, and teaches Photography II: Digital Storytelling. A husband, father of four children, and Trinity parent, he loves a great podcast and can be found listening while training for the annual Blue Ridge Relay.
Alumni
News & Notes
From law enforcement innovation and European travel adventures, to new family milestones and exciting academic pursuits, Trinity alumni continue to make remarkable strides across diverse fields and personal achievements. Read their updates below. Send us your update for the next News & Notes by visiting our website. Visit http://trinitydch.org/alumninews to share your story.
Class of 2011
Jack Wagstaff was among ten law enforcement officers selected by the National Institute of Justice for the 2024 class of Law Enforcement Advancing Data and Science (LEADS) Scholars program. This program provides a three-year scholarship to support the professional development and research capacity of those dedicated to advancing the police profession through science. Jack, a sergeant in the Durham Police Department’s Organized Crime Division, was also awarded the Certificate of Merit at the department’s annual Service Awards ceremony earlier this year.
Class of 2013
Arwen (La Dine) Broughton and her huband, James, along with big brother John, welcomed Alice Claire to their family on January 30, 2024.
Class of 2014
Catherine (Chestnutt) Saine married Jacob Saine this past June in Morganton, NC. The two met while working in Raleigh and are excited to start their new life together in their new home and to plant roots in their community. A number of Trinity alumni from the class of 2014 were in attendance at their wedding.
Class of 2016
Jack Lynch has been helping revolutionize drug discovery in London, England, at Isomorphic Labs. Their CEO recently won the Nobel Prize! Jack is currently enjoying traveling around Europe (and up to Scotland) with his wife, Anushka. They’re pictured here repping Trinity with spirit wear while hiking in England’s Lake District.
Class of 2019
Lily Gardner chased her lifelong dream of working in sports to Charlotte, NC, where she is a key contributor on the Corporate Communications team at Tepper Sports & Entertainment. In her role, Lily has the unique privilege to support three organizations—the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte FC, and Bank of America Stadium—on a variety of projects.
Emily (Emme) Griffith is in her first year of a master's program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she is studying opera and vocal performance. She is preparing to participate in two shows this fall, one of which is a paid contract! She is thrilled to be pursuing a career in the performing arts.
Join the Alumni LinkedIn Group: trinitydch.org/linkedin
Class of 2021
Elise Benware is a senior at UNC–Chapel Hill. She worked as a paid intern with the NC Dept of Environmental Quality this past summer. Elise will graduate in May 2025 with a degree in Environmental Studies and Political Science, and a minor in Womens and Gender Studies.
Ethan Benware completed a semester abroad in Rome in spring 2024. He plans to graduate from American University in May 2025 with a degree in Strategic Communications, and a minor in Business Entertainment.
Sam Gould is currently a senior at Samford University in Birmingham, AL, studying history and philosophy with the University Fellows program. Beyond his studies, Sam is plugged into multiple areas of campus, serving as both his fraternity’s president and an officer on the university’s Recruitment Team. Sam’s love for learning, leading, and the Lord is inspiring him to pursue a potential career in education, where he hopes to impact young students, shape the next generation of leaders, and eventually implement reformed education that is rooted in virtue and truth in higher learning institutions.
Henry Lima is a senior at Baylor University, with majors in Baylor Business Fellows, Finance, and Economics and minors in Data Science and Math. He recently took a job with Capitol One at their Frisco, TX campus. Henry is engaged to Valerie Davila, and their wedding date is set for June 2025.
Trinity Alumni Quick Facts
More than $20M in merit scholarships awarded to Trinity graduates, including 14 full scholarships
Class of 2022
Alexis Mosu is now a third-year pre-medical biology student at Duke University. She currently works as the volunteer coordinator for a local nonprofit volunteer organization, Root Causes, which promotes food security in Durham with a “food as medicine” approach. She was recently named the 2024 Key Student Volunteer of the Year through the Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership Center. She is also conducting research on the urogenital microbiome this semester with Duke Reproductive Health Sciences. In the coming semester, she anticipates beginning a second research project on the drivers of metastatic disease progression in chondrosarcoma.
Class of 2024
Ryland Burgin attends Belmont University, where he is taking his passion for music to the next level—the music business. Not only is he studying the history and inner workings of the industry, but he is also learning how to produce music himself in audio engineering courses. Ryland loves seeing other Trinity alumni around campus. He believes connections to home are extremely important, whether you need advice, a study partner, or just someone to remind you where you came from. While Ryland has loved college so far and looks forward to future opportunities, he misses the Trinity community greatly.
Trinity Alumni
More than 535 alums making a difference in the world alums have returned to coach athletic teams 535 + 12
Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill
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Durham, NC 27705
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Donuts and Daffodils
On a crisp Saturday morning in mid-November, members of the Trinity community gathered to enjoy coffee and donuts and plant daffodils on campus in memory of the late David Spence, a passionate advocate for Trinity’s mission who had been instrumental in the planting of many hundreds of daffodils around the school. His son, Chris, reflected that day on his father’s legacy: “My father loved gardening. As his ‘intern’ throughout my childhood, I grew to love it, too. He would be so pleased to see us honoring him in this way.”
More than 50 parents, grandparents, and children worked together to plant nearly 500 bulbs outside the Hundred Acre Woods. As the daffodils bloom each spring, they will continue to remind us of David Spence’s faithful stewardship and God’s enduring faithfulness in creation.
