Early Learners Charlotte, Bertie, Naomi and their classmates enjoy exploring Discovery Woods, a regular occurrence in their class. To support Trinity School, please contact Margaret Douglas, Director of Advancement 404-240-9446 | mdouglas@trinityatl.org trinityatl.org/give
Please send address changes to changeofaddress@trinityatl.org
Comments? Contact the editor at nfash@trinityatl.org
Mission Statement
Serving children age three through Sixth Grade, Trinity School creates a community of learners in a diverse and distinctly elementary-only environment, in which each child develops the knowledge, skills, and character to achieve his or her unique potential as a responsible, productive, and compassionate member of the School and greater community.
Non-Discriminatory Statement
Trinity School does not discriminate based on race, color, gender, religion or creed, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, or family composition in the administration of our admission and educational policies, in the extension of financial assistance, or other schooladministered programs.
Program and Pedagogy Pillars
Celebrating the present and preparing our students for the future within a nurturing and caring educational environment, we:
• Cherish Childhood
Provide joyful experiences that include play- and passion-based learning
Ensure developmentally appropriate experiences
Design experiences around what is important in the life of a child
• Deepen Students’ Educational Experience
Develop creative and critical thinking and questioning skills
Value both process and product of learning
Connect learning vertically, horizontally, cross-curricularly, and globally
• Empower Students in Their Learning
Foster a growth mindset
Cultivate voice, choice, and self-reflection
Promote leadership
So that our students:
• Build Academic Foundation
Establish proficiency in essential knowledge and skills
Embrace diverse experiences of a well-rounded education
• Develop Character Foundation
Exhibit ethical skills, habits, and attitudes of empathy, integrity, and respect
Demonstrate performance skills, habits, and attitudes of accountability, persistence, and resilience
• Exhibit Continued Curiosity, Creativity, and Confidence
Imagine, discover, and experiment independently and collaboratively
Adapt to new situations and a changing world
Leadership Team
Joe Marshall, Head of School
Ken Bomar, Director of Finance
Brad Brown, Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management
Ira Dawson, Upper Elementary Division Head
Margaret Douglas, Director of Advancement
Sheree Du Preez, Early Elementary Division Head
Nicole Fash, Director of Marketing and Communications
Jill Gough, Director of Teaching and Learning
Reginald Haley, Director of Operations
Marsha Harris, Director of Curriculum
Jeff Morrison, Director of Education Technology
Ginny Perkinson, Assistant to the Head of School
Kayleen Whitmer, Director of Extended Programs
2024–2025
Board of Trustees
Jenny Latz, Chair
Libby Barge
McKnight Brown ’92
Kate Nellis Burns ’95
Catherine Humann Callaway ’97
Janica Campbell
Kristin Carothers
Jackie Coleman
Erica Cummings
Isha Damani
Cindy Couch Ferguson ’78
Zenobia Godschalk
Nathan Hartman
Scott Hawkins
Molly Jamieson
Chris Kirtley
Carrie Lanier
Melissa Moseley
Joel Murphy
Street Nalley
Jack Norton
Charlie Ogburn
Marcellus Parker
Shazeen Porbandarwala
Boynton Smith
Winnie Smith
Stephanie Stephens
Chris Suh
12 Trinity welcomes new Board members
Learn more about the five new and returning members of Trinity’s Board of Trustees.
16 Trinity named Top Workplace for sixth consecutive year
We remain one of the metro area’s most sought-after employers.
19 Faculty and Staff Milestones
Join us as we celebrate the personal milestones of our faculty and staff.
During pre-planning, academic leaders rewarded teachers for their dedication to the School from three of Trinity’s endowed funds.
22 Team Trinity members take on new roles
Learn about our nine employees who have moved into different positions this school year.
24 Welcome Trinity’s new and returning employees
Learn more about the new (and returning) members of our faculty and staff.
29 June Zellers celebrated for 23 years of service
From hairstylist in New Jersey to beloved Trinity Teacher, June Zellers sets off for retirement in style.
Highlights
30 Trinity Tidbits
Read student and employee highlights from the spring and summer.
40 Trinity Traditions
Enjoy a look at the recent traditions that reinforce Trinity’s identity, curriculum, and values.
Features
46 Trinity’s approach to digital awareness and safety
See how Trinity fosters students’ healthy technology habits while supporting parents.
49 Growing values: Trinity’s Character Trait initiative
Learn about Trinity’s school-wide initiative designed to instill essential values in our students.
52 Spotlight on Art history grounded in parent volunteerism
Discover how Trinity’s Spotlight on Art has evolved from a single auction into a renowned series of art event, thanks to dedicated parent volunteers.
54 A look back at Summer Camp 2024
Our 595 campers had a blast this past summer! Check out the highlights and see what's coming next.
Alumni
56 A special Q&A with Wiley Ballard ’06
Learn more about how Wiley has been making a name for himself in the world of broadcasting since he graduated from Trinity 18 years ago.
59 Trinity’s Class of 2018: What college did they choose?
60 Class of 2024: “I am leaving Trinity with...”
62 Alumni Events
Alumni events from the spring and summer are featured in this fun spread.
65 In Memoriam
66 Class Notes
Lead Editor and Writer
Nicole Fash
Art Director and Design
Cheryl Beverly, Ridge Creative, Inc.
Associate Editor
Margaret Douglas
Writers
Margaret Douglas
Sheree Du Preez
Joe Marshall
Anne Torrey McCuean ’08
Katie Rosengren
Leisy Stevenson
Photographers
Stephanie Selman
Michie Turpin
Flourish magazine is published biannually by the communications department at Trinity School and mailed to parents, alumni, grandparents, and friends of Trinity.
Third Graders Jane and Ugo create 3-D sculptural crowns with Joe using beads, chenille sticks, wire, and other visual elements.
Dear Trinity Community,
Having devoted my entire professional career to education, I’ve come to appreciate the predictable rhythm of the school year: begin in late summer, end in late spring, then move into a summer hiatus.
Summer break provides me with needed downtime and rejuvenation from the school year’s frenetic pace. Still, what I have always cherished most about summer is the opportunity it offers me to reflect and strategize on how to further improve myself both professionally and personally. It usually takes me a week or so to decompress from a long school year, but by mid-June, I always set aside time to assess what worked well and to consider plans for the upcoming year.
I would not be the educator I am today without this annual time to reflect. I am the product of 45 school years and, more importantly, 45 summers of reflection and new beginnings.
One of the hallmarks of Trinity is the trust our teachers place in our students as motivated learners. From Early Learners through Sixth Grade, our educators encourage students to evaluate their work and to determine the next steps in their learning journey. This practice of selfreflection helps develop students who are intrinsically motivated and confident lifelong learners.
Just like our students assess their progress, experienced educators also need to reflect on their teaching and their students’ learning. Trinity’s mission intentionally states
that we are a community of learners, as everyone here is expected to continue growing and evolving.
As you read through this issue of Flourish, I invite you to think about the new beginnings that each school year brings: new students, faculty, staff, Trustees, and curriculum enhancements. This issue is replete with exciting developments and innovations.
Yet, an exemplary school like Trinity is not only about change. We are grounded in our proud history of success and excellence. While always open to new ideas, we do so on a solid foundation of continuity and educational best practices. All of us, especially our students, need to be excited by fresh challenges and ideas, yet they equally need a bedrock of predictability and consistency to complement innovations. The sections on Trinity traditions and quotes from our Class of 2024 exemplify the continuity within the Trinity community.
Enjoy reading about what’s new at Trinity while also appreciating our enduring values!
Sincerely,
Joseph P. Marshall Head of School
Contributors
Margaret Douglas Director of Advancement
At Trinity since 2008
Bachelor of Arts in Spanish University of Georgia
Q: If you could go back to any moment in time, when would it be?
A: The births of my two children.
Sheree Du Preez
Early Elementary Division Head
At Trinity since 2021
Education Specialist Degree in School Leadership Gordon College
Master of Education in School Administration and Instructional Leadership
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Bob Jones University
Q: What is your favorite Trinity School lunch?
A: Grilled cheese with tomato basil soup.
Nicole Fash
Director
of Marketing and Communications
At Trinity since 2016
Master of Arts in Media and Cultural Studies
University of Sussex, Falmer, England
Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Spanish Shorter College
@trinityschool
/trinityatl
@trinityatl
Q: What’s a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
A: I marched the sousaphone my senior year of high school.
Joe Marshall Head of School
At Trinity since 2013
Master of Science in English Education
Hofstra University
Bachelor of Arts in History
Franklin and Marshall College
@joepmarshall1958
Q: What is the number one item on your bucket list?
A: Tour Greece and Turkey.
Anne Torrey McCuean ’08 Advancement Associate and Alumni Relations
At Trinity since 2022
Bachelor of Arts in Education
Furman University
@trinityschoolalums /trinityalums
Q: What is the number one item on your bucket list?
A: To travel to all 50 states!
Katie Rosengren
Associate Director of Advancement
At Trinity since 2003
Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Washington and Lee University
Q: What is your favorite Trinity School lunch?
A: The salmon.
Stephanie Selman Communications Manager
At Trinity since 2019
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies Kennesaw State University
@trinityschool
/trinityatl
@trinityatl
Q: What is your favorite Trinity School lunch?
A: Any of the delicious wraps!
Leisy Stevenson Director of Spotlight on Art and Special Events
At Trinity since 2018
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Rhodes College
@spotlightonart
/TrinitySpotlightOnArt
@spotlightonart
Q: What’s the most unusual or interesting place you’ve ever visited?
A: I went to the Galapagos Islands when I was 12.
Experience the heart of Trinity School in a new way
Discover Trinity School like never before with our all-new interactive Viewbook. This dynamic digital experience features five thoughtfully created videos—produced by Trinity alum Cooper Carter ’01—that showcase our unique approach to education, the warmth of our community, the expertise of our teachers and staff, and the joyful learning that takes place every day.
Whether you’re an alum or a current or former parent, grandparent, employee, or Trustee, we believe these stories will resonate with you as they reflect the core values and mission that shape Trinity.
Help us spread the word by sharing this new Viewbook with family and friends who may be interested in joining our vibrant community, where students have been nurtured, challenged, and inspired since 1951.
Visit https://trinityschoolatlanta-viewbook.tiiny.site/ or use the QR code to begin!
News
From front to back, Shazeen Porbandarwala, Kate Nellis Burns ’95, Scott Hawkins, Janica Campbell, and Joel Murphy are Trinity’s new and returning Trustees.
Trinity welcomes new Board members
By Margaret Douglas, Director of Advancement
Trinity School’s Board of Trustees welcomes five new members this year. We thank each of them for their commitment to Trinity’s mission and vision for the future.
Kate Nellis Burns ’95
Kate Nellis Burns is a graduate from Trinity’s Class of 1995. She and her husband, Clay, are parents to two current students; Brady is in Fourth Grade and Jay is in Second Grade. For the past seven years, Kate and Clay have been delighted to be part of the Trinity community as parents, and now Trinity is thrilled and fortunate to welcome Kate to the Board of Trustees. Over the years, she has enjoyed serving in the roles of Room Parent, Grade Level Representative, Welcoming Committee Chair, Alumni Board member, Alumni Fund Chair, and Community Service Grade Chair.
“Trinity has been a special place for our family for decades; we are grateful for the many ways it has enriched our lives,” says Kate. “We believe Trinity’s greatest strength lies in its mission of cherishing childhood while also ensuring a focus on building character, independence, and a strong academic foundation. It is an honor to join the Board of Trustees, where I’ll have the opportunity to work alongside fellow board members and the administration in making strategic decisions that will not only impact today’s students, families, and faculty but also leave a lasting impact on the Trinity community long after our family has moved on. I am excited to learn and observe how Trinity operates and invest time in serving on the Governance and Diversity committees.”
Kate grew up in Atlanta and went on to graduate from The Westminster Schools and Duke University after Trinity School. She has spent her career working in the people function of several organizations. She enjoys bringing in the right people and leaders who share the core values of an organization and then enabling those individuals, teams, and organizations to work productively as a community. She also enjoys helping organizations create a healthy culture and environment where all individuals feel a sense of belonging. She spent 12 years at McKinsey & Company in various roles, including talent acquisition, human resources, and professional development. This year, Kate joined Inspire Brands, where she works in human resources.
Janica Campbell
Janica Campbell is beginning her seventh year at Trinity as a parent. Her son, Christian, is a current member of Trinity’s Fifth Grade class and began his Trinity journey as a Pre-K student. Janica served as the School’s Community Life and Engagement co-chair from 2020 until 2022, and she says, “I am proud of the work that was done during that time and greatly appreciated the School’s support. It was this work that gave me insight into Trinity’s leadership and commitment to every child.”
Trinity is incredibly fortunate and grateful to have the dedication of Janica as she joins the Board of Trustees. She is genuinely excited about the opportunity to serve on the Board for many reasons. She is passionate about education and the impact it has on our children and our community’s future, and her legal background equips her with a strong understanding of policy, governance, and regulatory matters.
Janica says, “I am also motivated by the chance to collaborate with a diverse group of people to develop and implement strategies that enhance educational outcomes. It is incredibly rewarding to contribute to decisions that will shape the educational experience and future success of Trinity students.”
Janica knows firsthand that Trinity is a special place and has many strengths. She believes that having the resources to invest in campus improvements, facilities, and specialized programs enhances the overall educational experience and provides students with unique opportunities for growth and development. She also believes that the School’s ability to foster a strong community and personalized learning environment is paramount as the high level of parental involvement and community engagement creates a more cohesive and supportive learning experience.
“Trinity Teachers educate the whole child while cherishing childhood and a love of learning, and they truly know and care about each student,” she says.
Janica is a seasoned attorney who wears multiple hats in the legal field. In 2007, she founded a thriving personal injury and business law firm with offices in Atlanta and Chicago. Additionally, Janica is a respected arbitrator
News for the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), where she brings extensive legal knowledge, sharp analytical skills, and a unique perspective to resolve disputes in the financial industry.
Scott Hawkins
Scott Hawkins is rejoining Trinity’s Board of Trustees after a brief hiatus. Scott and his wife, Susan, sent their children to Trinity and now have a grandchild here. We are thrilled and grateful to welcome Scott back to the Board of Trustees as he brings many years of service to non-profit boards, particularly within educational organizations. Scott says, “There is high demand for a Trinity education, and we must leverage that demand to strengthen the School financially and reputationally. Having served on Trinity’s Board for nine years before the pandemic, I am excited to return and see the progress that has been made since my departure. Additionally, I look forward to reuniting with old friends and forming new friendships on the Board.”
During his previous tenure, Scott served on the Finance and Advancement Committees, and he and his wife took on the role of Grandparent Fund Chairs for The Trinity Fund.
Scott is the CEO of the Hawkins Companies which has been investing in and developing commercial real estate across the Southeast since 1990. He holds degrees from LaGrange College, The University of Georgia Law School, and the Harvard Business School. His extensive board service includes institutions such as Harvard Business School, Duke Law School, Vanderbilt, Westminster, Mount Kenya Academy, and LaGrange College, where he served as board chair.
Joel Murphy
Joel Murphy and his wife, Judy, sent their three children to Trinity for their elementary education. Natalie graduated in 2000, Caroline in 2002, and Kyle in 2007. Joel served on Trinity’s Board of Trustees from 1999 until 2007 and played a lead role during that time in acquiring and developing the property for our current campus. He also worked on the sale of the former school property and chaired the Finance Committee. Trinity is both fortunate and grateful to welcome Joel’s expertise, wisdom, and deep history with the School back to the Board.
“The unwavering dedication to the students’ best interests and the strong sense of community are among the School’s greatest strengths,” says Joel. “Celebrating the present while preparing students for the future resonates with me and reminds Judy and me of the experience we had as Trinity parents. This singular focus allows an
institution like Trinity to be mission-based and promotes the best strategic long-term thinking and decision-making.”
Joel is eager to see how Trinity has advanced its mission and evolved into the institution that it is today since his last tenure on the Board.
“We have continued to support Trinity and have continued to hear the same wonderful things about the school over the years, but it will be very meaningful to me to re-engage with the current Board and school leadership to see things firsthand,” he says.
Joel has 35 years of experience in real estate acquisition, development, relationship building, and legal expertise and began his career as a commercial real estate attorney at King & Spalding. Since then, he has served as President of Cousins Properties, founded New Market Properties, and most recently served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Preferred Apartment Communities (NYSE:APTS), leading its privatization sale to Blackstone in 2022. Joel also serves on the boards of The Orvis Company and Crawford and Company (NYSE:CRD) and serves as an emeritus trustee at The Westminster Schools, where he also served as board chair.
Shazeen Porbandarwala
Shazeen Porbandarwala and her husband, Mazeen, have two children, Amelia and Aiden, who attended Trinity. A middle school math teacher and the Seventh Grade girls chair at The Westminster Schools, Shazeen is thrilled to join Trinity’s Board of Trustees, and we are deeply grateful to benefit from her educational expertise and wisdom.
She says, “As a middle school math teacher and grade chair, I see many students transitioning to Westminster from Trinity, and they are brilliant in so many ways. They have strong academic and leadership skills, they display empathy, resilience, and respect, they self-advocate, selfreflect, and have strong critical thinking skills, and they have a joy for learning.”
Shazeen believes Trinity’s greatest strengths are its commitment to cherishing childhood through play and joyful experiences; its pursuit of academic excellence and desire to deepen each student’s educational experience; its focus on hiring and retaining highly qualified and experienced faculty; its supportive and close-knit community of students, parents, and staff; and its strong emphasis on nurturing character development and leadership in students.
“What excites me the most about being a member of the Trinity Board of Trustees is having the unique opportunity to influence, shape, and support the School’s mission of cherishing childhood while making a tangible difference
in the lives of students and the broader school community,” she says. “I am thrilled to contribute to strategic decisions that will continue to foster academic excellence and innovation at the school. I am also excited to collaborate with other Board members and school leadership to implement initiatives that will contribute to the overall success of the School.
While a parent at Trinity, Shazeen served as a Room Parent and Dad’s Day Chair. She graduated from Emory University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and earned a Master of Arts in Teaching in Middle Childhood Education from Georgia State University and an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Lincoln Memorial University. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education with a focus on the brain, mind, and teaching from Johns Hopkins University.
Trinity School named Top Workplace for sixth consecutive year
By Nicole Fash, Director of Marketing and Communications
Trinity School has once again been recognized as a Top Workplace by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, marking the sixth consecutive year the school has received this honor. Out of thousands of companies that were nominated or invited to participate, only 175 were selected, and Trinity School is thrilled to be acknowledged in the “Top Midsize Workplace” category, which consists of organizations with 150–499 employees.
This esteemed recognition is based entirely on feedback from the School’s employees, gathered through an anonymous survey administered by Energage, LLC, an employee engagement technology partner. The survey evaluates 15 key cultural factors, including alignment, execution, and connection, all of which contribute to Trinity’s ongoing success.
Energage CEO Eric Rubino highlights the significance of this achievement, saying, “Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees. That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”
Head of School Joe Marshall deeply appreciates the recognition.
“The outcome of this latest AJC survey fills me with gratitude and a sense of responsibility,” he says. “Our ongoing commitment to creating a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels part of the Trinity family is our key to success.”
Joe also emphasizes the School’s dedication to a positive workplace culture, competitive compensation, and comprehensive benefits, which continue to attract passionate and talented educators and staff members.
“High employee retention rates are a testament to our focus on continually improving the work environment based on employee feedback,” he says.
Above all, Joe acknowledges and appreciates the dedication of the School’s 158 employees. “Every member of Team Trinity is crucial in realizing our mission of nurturing each child’s knowledge, skills, and character to achieve their unique potential. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all Trinity employees for their outstanding dedication to our school and our students and for their daily contributions to our community.”
Kate Burton
Kindergarten Lead Teacher | At Trinity since 2007
“I enjoy working at Trinity because I love working with so many masterful educators who are tremendous human beings. There’s not a classroom or office that I can walk into without learning something new or sharing a laugh. Also, the professional development opportunities are unparalleled. We engage in job-embedded learning through our work on teams, within divisions, and during inservice days. We build competencies through support to go to workshops, conferences, and in-house book-study groups. We’re also encouraged to share our expertise by presenting at local, regional, and national conferences. For nearly two decades, I have cherished being part of the Trinity community – a unique place that fosters my growth as a professional and teammate.”
Natalie Houk
First Grade Lead Teacher | At Trinity since 2017
“Growing up in Atlanta, I was well aware of the outstanding Trinity reputation and the focus of building a strong foundation at an early elementary age, and I wanted to be a part of it! One of the most profound benefits of teaching at Trinity is the opportunity to make a positive difference in students’ lives. Each day at Trinity brings new opportunities to build relationships and engage in learning in different and meaningful ways. What I also love about the Trinity community is the sense of belonging, the opportunity to cultivate meaningful connections, and the privilege of witnessing moments of discovery.”
Andrene Leslie
Third Grade Lead Teacher | At Trinity since 2017
“Several years ago, my very close friend was an associate teacher in Second Grade, and she raved about how amazing Trinity was. After spending a full day observing the teachers, students, and the culture here, I was blown away by the ‘magic’ of this institution. I have been captivated since 2017 and am fortunate to be part of a community that has consistently exceeded my expectations. My team is supportive, the faculty is embracing, the staff is warm and friendly, and the leadership team is encouraging. This environment makes me look forward to coming to work each day. I cherish the opportunity to be around my students, both past and present, and find joy in not only teaching but also learning something new each day.”
Robin Martin
Early Learners Lead Teacher | At Trinity since 2009
“I feel blessed to be part of a team that begins the educational journey of a Trinity student. All of our lessons have purpose and intentionality to make sure our students love school and love learning. I adore watching not only my students grow and flourish throughout the year but also each family and us as teachers. It is a joy watching everyone work together for the success of each student.”
Rosalyn McLean
Second Grade Associate Teacher and Trinity Parent | At Trinity from 2018–2020, and most recently since 2022
“There are two main reasons why I love working at Trinity School. First, my colleagues here are truly amazing. We’re a collaborative team that constantly pushes each other to grow and learn, fostering a positive and supportive environment that makes coming to work a joy. Second, the families at Trinity are incredibly invested in their children’s education. This close-knit community makes the learning process and school culture even more rewarding. Trinity is a magical place, where children are at the center of everything. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to ignite their curiosity and foster a love of learning. Being part of such a vibrant and intentional learning environment is incredibly fulfilling and keeps me motivated year after year.”
Erica Pendleton
Early Elementary School Counselor | At Trinity since 2018
“I came to Trinity after spending 11 years working with high school students because my training is specifically in elementary school counseling, and I wanted to get back to my roots. Young children have always had my heart, and my personal and professional beliefs align with Trinity’s program and pedagogical pillars. We care deeply about the children and want them to have a magical elementary school experience. Our students come to school excited and happy every day, and I love that their social and emotional development is just as important as their academic growth. I stay here because of our community; I have so many friends at school and consider them to be family.”
Carrie Peralta
Upper Elementary Spanish Teacher and Trinity Parent | At Trinity since 2012
“I love working at Trinity School because of the educational experience and pride it brings to my family and me. Being able to go to work with my children and watching them engage in the classrooms, play on the playground, and perform on the stage is the best of both worlds. The Trinity community inspires teachers to be their best and encourages leadership and creative opportunities. Every day, I am around students, teachers, administration, and parents who value and take pride in the Trinity Experience. I have stayed here for more than a decade because of the joy and pride I feel when I walk into work. I love working in a school that values me, my family, and my contributions as a teacher and parent.”
Michelle Perry
Early Elementary Learning Specialist At Trinity since 2007
I walked through the doors of Trinity School 17 years ago, and from that moment, I felt the warmth and excitement that make this school a truly special place to teach, learn, and grow. Trinity’s dedication to cherishing childhood and meeting students where they are fills my heart with gratitude every day. Working here brings me such joy because I am able to make a difference in the lives of children. There’s nothing quite like seeing their smiles when they overcome challenges and grow in confidence. Also, Trinity truly values and encourages professional growth. I’ve had countless opportunities to pursue my passion for teaching students to read, and Trinity has been there every step of the way, supporting me in becoming an Orton-Gillingham practitioner. I could not be more grateful.”
Carlos Taylor
Fifth Grade Associate Teacher | At Trinity since 2023
“My journey to Trinity School began with a fortunate opportunity and a desire to make a meaningful impact. I wanted to learn from experienced professionals in the field, and Trinity’s well-deserved reputation as one of the best places to work appealed to me. The true magic of this school is something words can’t fully capture, but the supportive network and abundant resources are invaluable to anyone dedicated to a fulfilling career in education. My time at Trinity has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Every interaction with our students, from hallways to classrooms, brings me immense joy. Their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning make each day an incredible journey. And what has kept me at Trinity is the wonderful community. We hold each other accountable and encourage one another to be the best versions of ourselves. I love being part of such a dynamic team and am truly appreciative of my Trinity family.”
Faculty and Staff Milestones
Join us as we celebrate the personal milestones of Trinity School’s employees in this recurring feature.
At Trinity since 2016, Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management Brad Brown and his wife, Erikka Brown, welcomed Callum Edward Brown on February 12. Callum joined proud big sister Harper, a Second Grader at Trinity.
Kindergarten Lead Teacher Abbey Hardman, who started working at Trinity in 2023, married her college sweetheart, Steven Moore, on May 18. The ceremony was held at the Wildflower 301 wedding venue in Greensboro, Georgia.
At Trinity since 2022, Kindergarten Senior Associate Teacher Samara Meshad married Jonathan Lumpkin on June 22 at a family residence in Highlands, North Carolina.
By Katie Rosengren, Associate Director of Advancement
Trinity’s exceptional faculty and staff are the School’s most valuable assets. Attracting, retaining, and developing these outstanding employees is vital to the School’s success, and supporting them is a top priority each year. Philanthropy plays an important role as gifts to the endowment, specifically, provide funds that enable Trinity to honor and celebrate exceptional employees on an annual basis. Due to the generosity of our community, we are proud to carry on the tradition of recognizing passionate employees with
grants and awards from named endowed funds.
In total, we have six named endowed funds that provide awards to honor and celebrate dedication and commitment to Trinity. During pre-planning in August, the Academic Leadership Team recognized recipients from three of those endowed funds—the Rollins Quest for Excellence Grant, The Hartman Family Fund for Faculty Excellence, and the Stephen G. Kennedy Fund for Faculty Excellence—each of which include a financial award for excellence in service.
Front Row: Pam Lauer, Rebecca Stewart, Reeves Holden, Marley West, Katie Hammett, Andrene Leslie Back Row: Robyn Denson, Lisa Gyovia, Julia Lee, Paul Pileggi, Brooke Ovorus, Ellen Marbut
The Rollins Quest for Excellence Grant, made possible by a generous gift from the Gary W. Rollins Foundation, honors employees who embody a commitment to professional excellence, life-long learning, educating the whole child, and service to Trinity School. This year, nine esteemed employees who truly embody the values highlighted by this award, were honored with Rollins Grants. The deserving recipients included Controller Robyn Denson, Media Center Specialist Lisa Gyovai, Director of The Trinity Fund and Major Gifts Katie Hammett, Early Learners Lead Teacher Pam Lauer, Kindergarten Lead Teacher Julia Lee, Third Grade Lead Teacher Andrene Leslie, Second Grade Lead Teacher Ellen Marbut, Science Teacher Brooke Ovorus, and First Grade Lead Teacher Rebecca Stewart.
Two dedicated teachers were recognized with awards from The Hartman Family Fund for Faculty Excellence this year. This fund, established by Trinity Parent Nathan Hartman, awards teachers who go above and beyond to provide exceptional service to Trinity School. Third Grade Lead Teacher Reeves Holden was selected as a recipient for her joyful personality, positive attitude, and her desire to learn and lead. Described as enthusiastic, engaging, and passionate, Kindergarten Lead Teacher Marley West received this award for actively seeking feedback from others in order to learn and grow.
Established to honor previous Head of School Stephen Kennedy’s 11 years of service to Trinity, the Stephen G. Kennedy Fund for Faculty Excellence honors a faculty member using innovative best practices to foster Information Age skills. This year, Makerspace Specialist Paul Pileggi was recognized with this award for creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment for students to engage in hands-on learning experiences.
Congratulations to this year’s faculty stipend award recipients. We look forward to presenting awards from the endowed funds that provide reimbursement for travel and professional development opportunities in December.
new challenges this school year.
Team Trinity members take on new roles
By Nicole Fash, Director of Marketing and Communications
Learn more about the nine Trinity employees who have taken on different roles or grades this school year.
Briselda Carachure-Vargas, who has been at Trinity since 2019 as a part-time Extended Programs Teacher and is affectionally known as Ms. B, moved into the newly created Media Center Associate role. In this position, she works with patrons to locate books and information, check books in and out, assist with ordering books and other materials, catalog and process new books and magazines, assists with author visits, helps set up and maintain book displays, and more. Briselda is currently working towards a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University.
Kyra Campbell, who has been a Third Grade Associate Teacher at Trinity since 2021, moved into a Lead Teacher position and works alongside Third Grade Associate Teacher April Blazejewski. Kyra previously served as a lead after-school teacher at Kid’s World Learning Center in Statesboro, Georgia. She has a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood/Elementary Education from Georgia Southern University.
Reeves Holden, who joined Team Trinity in 2021, moved into a Third Grade Lead Teacher position and works alongside Associate Teacher Mary Teske. She previously served as a Third Grade and a Second Grade Associate Teacher. Before coming to Trinity, Reeves was
Samara Lumpkin, Laura McRae, Matt Scott, Brian Toth, Mary Teske, Cathryn Lager, Kyra Campbell, Briselda Carachure-Vargas, and Reeves Holden are ready to take on
an online learning proctor and substitute teacher at The Schenck School and gained student teaching experience in grades Pre-K–Sixth. A certified Orton-Gillingham Classroom Educator, Reeves has a Master of Education in Special Education with a focus on dyslexia from the University of Georgia and a Bachelor of Science in Early/ Elementary Special Education from Auburn University.
Cathryn Lager, who joined Team Trinity as an Early Learners Associate last school year after subbing at Trinity for three years, has moved into a Lead Teacher position and works alongside Early Learners Lead Teacher Pam Lauer, Associate Teacher Patricia Keaten, and Senior Associate Teacher Jasmine Mitchell. Parent to a Trinity alum, Cathryn spent her early career in the corporate world before shifting to education. Over an 11-year period, she worked her way from account manager to senior director at TrialGraphix, then served as a service line enablement and account manager at EY in Atlanta for six years. Cathryn holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Florida State University.
Samara (Meshad) Lumpkin, who joined Team Trinity as a Third Grade Lead Teacher in 2022, has moved into a Kindergarten Senior Associate Teacher position and works alongside Lead Teachers Andrea Barnett, Kate Burton, Julia Lee, and Abbey Moore. Samara previously worked at The Mount Vernon School as a First Grade teacher and a Kindergarten collaborative teacher. Prior to that, she was a preschool teacher at The Little Nook in Atlanta. Samara has a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education with a focus on Gifted Education from the University of Georgia and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Florida State University.
Laura McRae has moved into a Pre-K Lead Teacher position after co-teaching Fifth Grade Math with Vicki Eyles for three years. She works alongside Lead Teacher Catherine Curran and Associate Teacher Debbie Oakes. Laura, who joined the Trinity team in 2010, previously served as a Fifth Grade Lead Teacher, Fifth Grade-Level Team Leader, and Fourth Grade Associate Teacher. Before working at Trinity, she served as a presidential fellow and outdoor adventure director at Camp Twin Lakes in Rutledge, Georgia, and a member of the nursery staff at First United Methodist Church in Athens, Georgia. Laura has a Master of Arts in Teaching with a specialization in Early Childhood Education from Oglethorpe University and a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science from the University of Georgia.
Matt Scott transitioned to Fourth Grade as a Lead Teacher and works alongside Associate Teacher Ashante Gilstrap after serving as a Third Grade Lead Teacher since 2017. Matt, who joined Team Trinity in 2013 as a Substitute Teacher, spent two years as a Fourth Grade Associate Teacher and has also served as the Third Grade's Team Leader for the last two years. He has a Master of Arts in Teaching from Mercer University and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Mary Teske, who began teaching full-time at Trinity last school year as a Fourth Grade Associate Teacher, moved to Third Grade and serves as an Associate Teacher alongside Lead Teacher Reeves Holden. She began her time at Trinity as a Substitute Teacher from 2015 to 2018, then from January 2023 until the end of that school year. She previously served as the assistant athletic coach at Atlanta Girls’ School and worked in the corporate world, including time as a supervisor/team trainer and patient care coordinator with SCP Health and a program manager/ team trainer with Premedex. Mary, who spent 12 years as a certified cycling instructor and group fitness trainer, has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from State University of New York at Buffalo.
Brian Toth now co-teaches Fifth Grade Math with Vicki Eyles. A Fourth Grade Lead Teacher at Trinity since 2016, Brian was recently nominated for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. He has been teaching since 2003 and began his career as a Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Grade math and science teacher at North Brandywine Middle School in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, before spending seven years teaching Fourth and Fifth Grade math at Rainbow Elementary School in Coatesville and three years teaching Third and Fourth Grade math and science at NHCS Alderman Elementary School in Wilmington, North Carolina. Brian received his master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Neumann University in Aston, Pennsylvania, and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from West Chester University in Pennsylvania.
Welcome Trinity’s new and returning employees
By Nicole Fash, Director of Marketing and Communications
Learn about our newest faculty and staff members and one returning teacher, who are excited about being members of Team Trinity.
Christeen Banoczi joined Team Trinity as a new full-time School Nurse and works alongside School Nurse Kelsey Ricci. Christeen is a Registered Nurse (RN) with five years of acute care experience in pediatric units, including PICU, NICU, and MotherBaby settings. She previously worked as a full-time pediatric nurse at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical
Center in Wilmington, North Carolina, and as a travel registered nurse in Edgewater, New Jersey, and Denver, Colorado. She also has experience as a clinical instructor at Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington. Christeen has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and holds certifications in Basic Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, Neonatal Resuscitation Program, and Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
We asked Christeen, why did you want to work in a school? Her response: “I was inspired by my school nurse in elementary school and was ready for a different working environment. It is a joy seeing healthy children do what healthy children are supposed to be doing: learning and playing!”
Sarah Grace Barr ’13, who has served as a Substitute Teacher at Trinity since January, returned to her alma mater full time as a Fifth Grade Associate Teacher and works
Front Row: Caroline Conner, Lauren Kuzniak, Sarah Campbell, Monique Glafcke, Sarah Grace Barr ’13, Ashley Patton, Catherine Curran, Melissa Goodell, Patricia Keaten
Back Row: Colleen Bazemore-Colclough, Christeen Banoczi, Jack Teske, Michele Payne, Steven Valentine, Heather Parker, Ali Roby, Sean Maynard, Sammy Rigaud, April Blazejewski
alongside Lead Teachers Kathy Bruyn and Sammy Rigaud. In the summer of 2023, she served as a Second Grade assistant teacher at Horizons Atlanta, a six-week learning program that provides academic support to students from low-income communities, after volunteering there every summer since 2016. In addition, she was an international programs ambassador at Florida State University for two years while she completed her degree. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University and is currently working towards her Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary Education from Mercer University.
We asked Sarah Grace, why did you want to work at Trinity? Her response: “I have been a member of the Trinity community since 2004, when I began my own Trinity journey as a student in the Three-Year-Olds [now called Early Learners] class. This place truly feels like home, and being able to play a role in the Trinity Experience of today’s students is a huge blessing. There is nowhere I’d rather be!”
Colleen Bazemore-Colclough
joined Team Trinity as an Extended Programs Lead Teacher. Colleen brings a wide array of experience, from teaching to working with nonprofits. She has previously served as an assistant Pre-K teacher at Kids R First Academy, admissions consultant at Fusion Academy, STEAM facilitator and leadership instructor at YELLS Inc., corps member at Ameircorps Vista, and camp counselor at Police Athletic League, all located in Marietta. In addition, she has a strong customer service background that includes several years as a customer service agent at EconoLodge and licensed telesales agent at Broad Path in Marietta. Colleen has a Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies from Kennesaw State University.
We asked Colleen, what are you most looking forward to during your first year? Her response: “I look forward to building relationships.”
April Blazejewski returned to Team Trinity after a one-year hiatus from full-time teaching, during which she served as a Substitute Teacher. She serves as a Third Grade Associate Teacher, a position she held during the 2022-23 school year, and works alongside Lead Teacher Kyra Campbell. Before coming to Trinity, April taught Fifth Grade, serving as a lead science teacher and a lead math teacher, as well as Third and Fourth Grade. She has won several Teacher of the Year awards and served as a Grade Level Chair. April has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the College of Charleston.
We asked April, why did you want to return full time to Trinity? Her response: “I am ecstatic about being back at Trinity, which has an amazing community. I love taking part in a school that focuses on cherishing childhood along with having high expectations for academics and citizenship.”
Sarah Campbell, parent of two Trinity alums, joined Team Trinity as an Early Learners Lead Teacher and works alongside Lead Teacher Lauren Kuzniak, Associate Teacher Patricia Keaten, and Senior Associate Teacher Jasmine Mitchell. Over the last five years, Sarah has served as a Substitute Teacher at Trinity, including stints as a long-term sub for teachers in the Early Elementary Division. Before shifting to education, she spent close to a decade in the corporate world, including time as a showroom manager for Fran Reis Company as well as Bilthouse & Company. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Georgia Southern University.
We asked Sarah, why did you want to work in education? Her response: “I want to teach kids to love learning as
I enjoyed watching my own children learn to love learning at Trinity School.”
Caroline Conner joined Team Trinity as a First Grade Senior Associate Teacher and works alongside all First Grade Lead Teachers as well as Senior Associate Teacher Bella Giorno. With nine years of experience in education, Caroline came to us from Cambridge Christian School in Tampa, Florida, where she was a First Grade teacher as well as the junior varsity volleyball head coach and beach volleyball assistant coach. Prior to that, she served as a First Grade teacher at New Hope Christian Academy and Cornerstone Prep, both in Memphis, Tennessee. Caroline holds a Master of Professional Counseling from Southeastern University, a Master of Urban Education from Union University, and a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Auburn University.
We asked Caroline, why did you want to work at Trinity? Her response: “Coming to Trinity has been a true joy. I was told about the community here but experiencing it is next level. The kindness, support, and rapport that I’ve felt from even before day one is a huge reason why I feel so blessed to be here!”
Catherine Curran joined Team Trinity as a Pre-K Lead Teacher and works alongside Lead Teacher Laura McRae and Associate Teacher Debbie Oakes. Catherine came to us from the Auburn Early Education Center in Auburn, Alabama, where she spent a year as a Kindergarten lead teacher and two years as an after-school program instructor. She also spent a summer as a youth activities intern at Cherokee Town and Country Club in Atlanta. Catherine has a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Auburn University.
We asked Catherine, why did you want to work at Trinity? Her response: “Trinity School fosters and nurtures children as they grow and learn through play. It seems like a magical place to be for both students and teachers.”
Monique Glafcke joined Team Trinity as a Fourth Grade Associate Teacher and works alongside Lead Teacher Marcia Twiggs. Monique came to us with 17 years of teaching experience and most recently served as a Pre-First associate teacher at Pace Academy. In addition, she virtually taught English to Chinese students in preschool through high school for seven years through VIPKid and was a virtual teacher for students in grades Kindergarten - Third Grade through Edmentum Options Academy online for three years. Prior to that, Monique was a lead teacher for multiple ages at Midtown Lutheran Preschool and a lead teacher for twoyear-olds at Canterbury School, both in Atlanta. She also spent time as a Kindergarten teacher at The Children’s Circle and a First Grade teacher at Greenway Park Elementary, both in Charlotte, North Carolina. Monique holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Northern Illinois University.
We asked Monique, why did you want to work at Trinity? Her response: “It seems like such a magical place. I wanted to be somewhere that my skillset would be appreciated and where kids can be kids.”
Melissa Goodell joined Team Trinity as a Fifth Grade Lead Teacher and works alongside Associate Teacher Carlos Taylor. Melissa, who has 26 years of teaching experience, came to us from The Mount Vernon School, where she has taught Second Grade for the last 16 years. Prior to that, she was a Kindergarten teacher at Chesnut Charter Elementary School in Dunwoody as well as at Washington Elementary School in Redondo Beach,
California; a Second Grade Teacher at Howard Wood Elementary School in Torrance, California; and a Fourth Grade Teacher at Pinecrest Schools, an independent school in Van Nuys, California. In addition, she served two years as an English Teacher in the United States Peace Corps, teaching English as a Second Language to Ninth Grade students in a small village in Eritrea, Africa. Melissa has a PostBaccalaureate Teaching Certification from California State University Long Beach and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Loyola Marymount University.
We asked Melissa, why did you want to work at Trinity? Her response: “I am excited to work at Trinity because it’s a well-established school that operates under a clear mission and deeply held values. I love that we serve elementary-aged children and cherish the power of play, exploration, and discovery learning. Trinity focuses on the whole child, which is something that is important to me. I am also very excited to work at a place that has been voted one of the happiest places to work in Atlanta for six years straight.”
Patricia Keaten joined Team
Trinity as an Early Learners Associate Teacher and works alongside Senior Associate Teacher Jasmine Mitchell and all Early Learner Lead Teachers. Patricia came to us from The Cathedral Preschool in Atlanta, where she was the lead science and garden teacher for the last five years. She has previously served as a Pre-K assistant teacher at St. Alphonsus School in Chicago; First Grade lead teacher at Visitation Catholic School in Chicago; and Fourth Grade lead teacher, Pre-K lead teacher, as well as Second and Third Grade assistant teacher at St. Martin’s Episcopal School in Atlanta. Patricia has a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Art History from Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, Virginia, and a Grand Diplôme in Culinary Arts from the
French Culinary Institute in New York.
We asked Patricia, what is your teaching philosophy? Her response: “I’m interested in helping children develop socially, emotionally, and intellectually. I feel it is important to encourage and support children to embrace their curiosity at school.”
Lauren Kuzniak joined Team
Trinity as an Early Learners Lead Teacher and works alongside Lead Teacher Sarah Campbell, Associate Teacher Patricia Keaten, and Senior Associate Teacher Jasmine Mitchell. Parent to three Trinity alums, Lauren is passionate about Trinity’s mission and has served here as a Substitute Teacher for several years, including a long-term sub position in the Early Learners. She has also spent the last six years serving as a Fourth- and Fifth-Grade Sunday School teacher at Peachtree Road United Methodist Church. Before coming to Trinity, she spent 12 years in the corporate world and was a clinical business manager at Cubist Biopharmaceuticals, an area account manager at Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, and a client representative at IBM. Lauren has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Georgia.
We asked Lauren, why did you want to work at Trinity?
Her response: “I love the mission of Trinity and the impact it made on my three children.”
Sean Maynard joined Team
Trinity in April and serves as our Receptionist four days a week. Born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, Sean has a strong background in customer service and people management, which began with his eight years of service in the U.S. Army. He most recently served as a training ambassador at Amazon and has previously held supervisory positions at Great Value Storage, CVS, and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Sean holds a Master of Public Administration from DeVry
University’s Keller Graduate School of Management and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from DeSales University. During his time in the military, he received several Army Achievement Medals for Excellence and Attention to Detail.
We asked Sean, why did you want to work at Trinity? His response: “I wanted to work at Trinity, because I came to a crossroad in my life and wanted to try something different and outside of my comfort zone. Trinity School has a great foundation and represents stability, something that I wanted for my next career venture.”
Ashley Patton joined Team Trinity as a Pre-K Lead Teacher and works alongside Lead Teacher Jaclyn Connell and Associate Teacher Jessi Books.
Ashley came to us from The Museum School of Avondale Estates, where she spent a year as a Kindergarten lead teacher and a year as a studentteacher. In addition, she has served as an intern with the Florida Department of Education’s Vice Chancellor of Literacy Achievement, a college counseling intern with Bloom College Consulting in Atlanta, and an undergraduate research assistant at Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences. Ashley has a Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education from the University of Georgia and a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science with a concentration in Early Childhood and Adolescent Development from Auburn University.
We asked Ashley, why did you want to work at Trinity? Her response: “I have wanted to work at Trinity ever since I dreamed of becoming an educator. I’ve always heard wonderful things about the School’s community, educational program, and love of learning embodied by both students and teachers. I absolutely love teaching and have always wanted to be at a special school that values the whole student as well as the educators who
put so much passion into their craft.”
Heather Parker, who has been teaching for 26 years, joined Team Trinity as a Fourth Grade Lead Teacher and works alongside Associate Teacher Jamie Webster. Heather came to us from Mount Pisgah Christian School in Johns Creek, where she served as a Sixth and Seventh Grade Language Arts teacher for the last 13 years, which included seven years as a middle school cross country coach, and taught Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade for seven years. Heather spent the first six years of her career as a middle school Language Arts teacher for Fulton and Dekalb County Schools and has served as a grade-level chair for various grades over the last 24 years. She has a Bachelor of Science in English Education from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.
We asked Heather, why did you want to work in education? Her response: “My desire to work in education is driven by a genuine love for children, a deep appreciation for the transformative power of learning, and a profound sense of fulfillment in watching students grow, learn, and mature into confident, capable individuals ready to make their mark on the world.”
Michele Payne joined Team Trinity as a Fourth Grade Lead Teacher and works alongside Associate Teacher Jack Teske. An International Dyslexia Association-certified Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner, Michele spent the last decade as a Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade Lead Teacher at Saint Francis Day School in Roswell. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Mississippi.
We asked Michele, why did you want to work at Trinity? Her response: “I was drawn to the opportunity to work at Trinity because of its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and fostering a holistic learning
environment. Trinity’s values align closely with my own beliefs about the importance of education as a tool for personal growth and societal progress. Moreover, I am inspired by Trinity’s dedication to nurturing not only academic achievement but also character development and social responsibility in its students.”
Sammy Rigaud joined Team Trinity as a Fifth Grade Lead Teacher and works alongside Associate Teacher Sarah Grace Barr ’13. For the last six years, Sammy was a First Grade teacher with Atlanta Public Schools and previously served as a Second Grade teacher at Gulf Coast Charter Academy South in Naples, Florida, for three years. A published children’s book author, he has a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education in Indianapolis and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies from Florida Atlantic University.
We asked Sammy, why did you want to work at Trinity? His response: “My educational beliefs align with Trinity’s. I aim to help children flourish academically while cherishing their childhood.”
Ali Roby joined Team Trinity as a Pre-K Lead Teacher and works alongside Lead Teacher Leah Lenhardt and Associate Teacher Jessi Books. Ali has spent 20 years in the classroom and came to us from The Cathedral Preschool, where she was a lead teacher for three-year-olds. Prior to that, she served as a lead teacher for three- and four-year-olds at First Presbyterian Preschool in Atlanta for 11 years, was a lead teacher at Stretch the Imagination Preschool in San Francisco, a Kindergarten associate teacher at Katherine Delmar Burke School in San Francisco, a long-term Kindergarten substitute teacher at Palm Beach Day Academy in Florida, and a Seventh Grade assistant teacher at Saxe Middle School in New Canaan, Connecticut. Ali has a Bachelor of
Arts in Sociology with a minor in Spanish from Fairfield University in Connecticut and is bilingual in English and Spanish.
We asked Ali, why did you want to work at Trinity? Her response: “At Trinity, I have the opportunity to inspire curiosity and a love for learning in our students every day. It’s rewarding to be part of a community that nurtures growth and fosters a supportive environment for both students and educators.”
Jack Teske joined Team Trinity as a Fourth Grade Associate Teacher and works alongside Lead Teacher Michele Payne. Jack is a graduate of Woodward Academy, and he recently earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts. He has served as a substitute teacher at Trinity and Lovett and spent time as a camp counselor at Woodward.
We asked Jack, why did you want to work at Trinity? His response: “Trinity has a welcoming environment for both staff and students that is completely unique to the school.”
Steven Valentine joined Team Trinity as a Media Specialist. He came to us from the Cobb County Public Library System, where he created innovative library programming and assisted with operations as a library assistant. TEFL/TESOL-certified, Steven previously taught English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) at Douglas County Schools and English to students in grades 4 - 6 at Coral Springs Bilingual School in Villanueva, Honduras. He has a Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication from Mercer University.
We asked Steven, what are you most looking forward to during your first year? His response: “Learning the lay of the land and making connections with the students and my fellow teachers.”
June Zellers celebrated for 23 years of service
By Nicole Fash, Director of Marketing and Communications
In May, Trinity’s administration held a retirement reception for Early Learners Associate Teacher June Zellers, who had a profound impact on her colleagues and countless students and their families during her 23 years of dedicated service at the School.
Originally from East Orange, New Jersey, June’s passion for teaching began in her childhood, inspired by her mother, who was an educator. Additionally, during high school June worked at a daycare, which deeply influenced her.
She says, “Even as a teenager, I enjoyed the children – the love, the laughter, and the cuddling. Meeting the needs of a child and seeing that you can make a difference in their life is just wonderful.”
After earning her cosmetology license and later attending Essex College of Business in Newark, June worked as a hair stylist and at a drug counseling facility before moving to Atlanta in 1993. She continued her work as a stylist for several years before transitioning into education, the field she always knew she was meant to pursue.
June’s journey to Trinity began through a chance meeting with Diane Johnson, a former Trinity Teacher, at the hair salon where June worked. This encounter in 2001 led her to teach twice a week in one of the Two-Year-Old classes
and three days a week in one of the Early Learners (then called the Three-Year-Olds) classrooms with Margot Shuford. After the School moved to its current campus in 2002, June became a Pre-K Associate Teacher for five years and then served as an Early Learners Associate Teacher for 17 years.
June says she found a welcoming and supportive environment at Trinity. Some of her most cherished memories over the years feature the Pre-K Olympics, The Nutcracker performances, and the Celebration of Cultures.
As she steps in to retirement, June looks forward to staying connected with the Trinity community and has already served as a Substitute Teacher this school year. She also plans to relax and travel to spend quality time with her two children and her five grandchildren, who range in age from 3 to 29. Reflecting on her time at Trinity, June expresses gratitude for the growth and inspiration she experienced, and she will dearly miss the children, her co-workers, and the friendships she built with parents.
June’s advice to new teachers is simple yet profound, “Listen to the children, have patience, and share lots of love.”
June pauses to take a photo with former Pre-K Associate Teacher Anne Jones and alum Edward Askew-Norton ‘22 at her retirement reception on May 6.
June guides a young learner in this cherished moment from April 2010.
Highlights
Trinity Tidbits
By Nicole Fash, Director of Marketing and Communications
Kate Burton brings history to life at Kennesaw Mountain
Kindergarten Lead Teacher Kate Burton, who joined Team Trinity in 2007, has been dedicating her time and energy as a “Trail Ambassador” at Kennesaw Mountain for the last two years. Throughout the school year, she spends four to six hours a week hiking the trails, assisting visitors with directions, and reporting maintenance issues. On weekends, she helps with parking and registration during trail work events and volunteers for special programs like Junior Ranger Day and Battle Anniversary.
Kate’s enthusiasm for teaching is evident in her contributions to these events. At her first Battle Anniversary in 2023, she ran the “Historical Games” tent, educating visitors on traditional activities like ring toss and hobby horses. Her passion for bringing history to life led her to research and propose an educational display on what schooling was like in 1864. For the 160th Battle Anniversary, which was held on June 29, Kate dressed as a teacher from the era, complete with a hoop skirt, and set up a period-appropriate classroom with a desk, slates, slate pencils, and reprinted textbooks and primers.
Kate’s commitment to sharing her love for education at Trinity School and in the wider community is inspiring and her work with the Battle Anniversary was featured in the June 30th edition of the Marietta Daily Journal
On July 24, Jill Gough, Director of Teaching and Learning at Trinity since 2012, co-led a virtual workshop on Algebraic Reasoning Across the K-12 Curriculum. This workshop was hosted by the Council of Presidential Awardees in Mathematics, an organization dedicated to using its members’ unique expertise to influence and improve mathematics teaching and provide valuable mathematical experiences for students. A prior Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics Teaching winner, Jill was invited to speak in recognition of her leadership and impact in K-12 mathematics education.
Arlette Guthrie inspires Sixth Graders with leadership insights
As part of Trinity’s Leadership Series for Sixth Graders, Arlette Guthrie, senior vice president of human resources at The Home Deport and parent to Jayden Guthrie ’24, shared her insights with last year’s Leadership Class on April 30. Mrs. Guthrie explored the essence of leadership, emphasizing the pivotal moment these students would encounter as they transitioned to a new school. She focused on understanding the expectations of a new environment, crafting a solid plan, embracing change, shaping their desired identity, and having the courage to redefine their path when necessary.
Trinity Teachers and division heads lead conference in Togo, West Africa
In June, Trinity School hosted a leadership and Kindergarten conference in Togo, West Africa, led by Kindergarten Lead Teachers Jessica Lyles and April Patton, alongside Division Heads Ira Dawson and Sheree Du Preez. The event was a transformative experience for these four members of Team Trinity and the 15 village schools they collaborated with.
Upon arriving in Togo, Jessica, April, Ira, and Sheree were warmly welcomed by village teachers and school leaders eager to learn and share. The seminars focused on classroom management, best teaching practices, effective leadership, and nurturing young children during their formative years.
Sheree Du Preez says, “One of the most heartwarming aspects was the active involvement of our Trinity Kindergarten and First-Grade students. In the months leading up to the conference, they collected supplies like paint, markers, crayons, bulletin board materials, and more. Our team was thrilled to present each school leader and teacher with an insulated lunch box filled with rulers, markers, crayons, a water bottle, a whistle, a jump rope, pens, and a notepad. The joy and gratitude of the Togolese teachers were unforgettable.”
The conference aimed not only to provide professional development but also to build relationships and foster understanding between different cultures and educational systems. Trinity team members were deeply moved by the dedication of the village educators, who, despite limited resources, are committed to providing the best education for their students. The experience left a lasting impact on our teachers, who returned with renewed purpose and valuable insights to share with our school community.
Trinity School is committed to deepening its outreach efforts and strengthening the connections established in Togo. We eagerly anticipate future opportunities to enhance global education and nurture global citizenship among our students. The recent conference in Togo represents a pivotal step toward what academic leaders hope will be a lasting partnership.
Thanks to the dedication of our teachers, the generosity of our students and their families, and the support of our wider community, our team has already made a profound difference in the lives of educators and children in Togo, West Africa.
Fifth Graders thrive at Camp Twin Lakes
Last school year’s Fifth Graders embarked on their eagerly awaited annual outdoor education journey to Camp Twin Lakes on April 18 and 19. Our students forged lasting memories and engaged in a variety of activities, including canoeing, rock climbing, team-building exercises, and archery. These hands-on experiences are pivotal moments in our students’ Trinity journey, fostering growth and learning in unforgettable ways.
Trinity families and employees explore nature on campus
On April 13, Trinity hosted its third Trail Day, drawing a couple hundred community members to explore the three miles of trails in Discovery Woods. From 8 to 10 AM, participants navigated hills, winding paths, and stream crossings, taking in the natural beauty of Trinity’s 43-acre campus. After the trek, everyone enjoyed doughnuts, coffee, and received Trinity Trails stickers.
Sixth Graders finish their Trinity Outdoor Education journey at Camp Twin Lakes
On March 27 and 28, last school year’s Sixth Graders enjoyed their final Trinity School outdoor education trip. Students immersed themselves in a variety of outdoor adventures at Camp Twin Lakes. From paddle boating to team-building games, archery to rock climbing, every moment fostered cherished memories and lasting bonds among our Sixth Grade Leadership Class.
Trinity School community rallies around Kate’s Club during Day of Service
Once again, members of the Trinity School community came together to support Kate’s Club during Trinity’s Day of Service on March 23. Kate’s Club, a nonprofit organization, offers vital social and therapeutic services to grieving children and their families, free of charge, making each contribution invaluable. Participants from Kate’s Club—composed of children and families coping with the loss of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver—were treated to a Fun Fair hosted by Trinity. It featured various attractions such as a bouncy slide, video game truck, DJ, carnival games, group activities, crafts, and lunch.
Trinity Teacher highlights technology innovations at literature conference
On March 22 and 23, Instructional Technology Lead Val Boone led professional development sessions at the University of Georgia’s 55th annual Georgia Conference on Children’s Literature, which brings together educators, librarians, authors, and scholars to explore innovations in literacy and technology.
At Trinity since 2021, Val’s presentation “Chat GPT: How to Use Artificial Intelligence (AI) in School Libraries” delved into leveraging AI to enhance patron assistance, streamline collection development, and innovate programming. With a focus on chatbots, Val showcased the potential for AI to revolutionize library services, offering practical insights for librarians and media specialists seeking to utilize emerging technologies.
In addition, Val and Joel Atchison, who previously served as a Trinity Media Specialist, co-led the presentation “Tech Tales: Integrating Children’s Literature with Digital Discovery.”
The duo provided engaging STEM lessons and book suggestions on how to build connections between the text and technology. Attendees left equipped with innovative ideas for incorporating new and improved tech tools like Tinker-Cad, Chrome Canvas, Book Creator, Pixton, and Minecraft into their literacy programs.
Students meet author Cat Gayle and preview new books
On April 18, Early Elementary Division students had the opportunity to sit down with visiting children’s book author Cat Gayle. Based in Atlanta, Mrs. Gayle, who also teaches preschool, guided students through the writing and illustration process. She presented her book, When a Monster Dreams, and provided Trinity students with a preview of the next two books in the series.
Trinity students enjoy solar eclipse
On April 8, Trinity students participated in exciting solar eclipse activities during their science classes. Additionally, equipped with CE-certified eclipse glasses from Rainbow Symphony, they safely observed this rare event out on the Trinity Track and playgrounds.
Visiting author Laurel Snyder delights students
Students and teachers alike warmly welcomed local poet and children’s book author Laurel Snyder to campus on March 20. Ms. Snyder, who also occasionally serves as a commentator on NPR’s All Things Considered, presented to students in Second through Sixth Grade and signed copies of her books.
Bestselling author Alan Gratz inspires Sixth Graders
On February 27, last school year’s Sixth Graders enjoyed an exciting virtual visit with New York Times-bestselling author Alan Gratz. He shared inspiring stories about his journey to becoming a published author, highlighting the perseverance required during the writing process. Students asked him a wide range of questions that provided deeper insights into Mr. Gratz’s world of writing and publishing.
Trinity Choir performs at Carnegie Hall
On March 10, 28 members of Trinity’s Fifth and Sixth Grade Choir participated in the biannual choir festival at Carnegie Hall. Additionally, two alumni who had siblings on the trip were invited to participate because their trip to Carnegie was canceled due to the pandemic. Arriving in New York on March 8 to begin rehearsals with their Festival Choir, our students were partnered with a High School from Alabama and were under the direction of Greg Gilpin.
The Festival Choir performed many complex pieces of music, including “Dry Bones,” “Musica Gloria,” “Lightning,” and “I’ll Tell My Ma.” Upper Elementary Music Teacher Alyssa Gangarosa, who was assisted and accompanied by Upper Elementary Music Teacher Caitlin Grubbe, worked with Trinity students to prepare the music ahead of the festival. In addition, three Trinity students—Sixth Grader Jayden and Fifth Graders David and Leah—were selected by Gilpin out of all the group’s singers to perform as a trio during the song “Shenandoah.”
Trinity School Sixth Graders shine in Statewide Honor Chorus
Over the weekend of February 9 and 10, Trinity School’s musical talents were on full display as four members of last school year’s Sixth Grade Leadership Class—Clara Hartman, Elinor Schwartz, John Monk, and Sofia Peralta—took the stage at the annual Sixth Grade Statewide Honor Chorus program, held this year in Tifton, Georgia. Organized by the Georgia Music Educators Association, this event highlights the dedication of music educators in nurturing young talent across the state.
Each Sixth-Grade music teacher in Georgia can choose up to four students to participate in this event. After undergoing one-on-one auditions with Upper Elementary Music Teacher Caitlin Grubbe, Clara, Elinor, John, and Sofia committed to biweekly sessions over a six-week period to prepare the music for the event, which included songs in both Latin and Spanish. Our Sixth Graders then joined forces with 396 peers for intensive rehearsals over two days, culminating in a concert. Moreover, Sofia was chosen to participate in a small group solo, following a special audition evaluated by several music teachers. Our students’ selection serves as a testament to their natural musical aptitude, maturity, and hard work demonstrated in class. These opportunities not only enhance their musical skills but also contribute to their overall growth as well-rounded individuals.
Leading the concert were two esteemed conductors: Dr. Emily Williams Burch, who currently teaches classes in performing arts and sound design at The Savannah College of Art and Design, and Dawn-Marie Schafer, associate director of the Austin (Texas) Children’s Choir and the Region 18 Texas Music Educators Association’s Middle School Vocal Chair.
Trinity Traditions
Trinity School’s rich history began in 1951. While the campus has moved twice since its founding and the School’s programming is continually enhanced, Trinity also maintains numerous grade-level, division-wide, and school-wide traditions that reinforce the School’s identity, curriculum, and values. This section is dedicated to highlighting some of the many special events that our students look forward to every year.
Kindergarten Trip Around the World
Throughout January and February, Kindergartners embarked on different journeys across the globe, all from the comfort of their classrooms. This beloved unit of study introduced them to the history, geography, and culture of Australia, England, Ghana, and Mexico. Through this immersive experience, students not only had a blast but also developed a better appreciation for the diversity and richness of the world around them. During the week of February 26, our Kindergartners eagerly shared all their newfound knowledge and fun experiences with their peers and parents.
101 Days of First Grade
In February, First Graders celebrated the 101st day of school. Dressing up as the 101 Dalmatians, students developed numeracy through special games and activities designed around the number 101.
Second Grade Valentine Necklaces
A beloved tradition since 2001, handmade Valentine’s Day necklaces were given to moms and other loved ones during February’s Second Grade Morning with Mom. The necklaces are handmade with love by Second Graders every step of the way, from molding the clay and stamping the design to selecting the color and glazing the hearts.
Pre-K Olympics
Pre-K students trained hard to participate in specially adapted sporting events during their very own Olympics, held in February. Students had fun while learning about different countries and teamwork as they earned medals during events such as “bobsledding,” tricycle and “horse” racing, hurdles, basketball, and soccer. Teachers and family members were there to cheer them on.
First Grade Zoo Exhibit
On March 1, First Graders wrapped up their month-long animal research project with the annual Zoo Exhibit. Students dressed up as their favorite animals, walked the Trinity blue carpet, and confidently shared their findings
with classmates and parents. In addition, the First Graders published their research in their very own nonfiction animal books.
Third Grade Living Museum
On March 15, history came alive as each Third Grader researched and took on a historic figure’s persona. Third Graders walked the red carpet and confidently told their character’s story before assembled students and visitors during the Living Museum.
Celebration of Cultures
Since 2013, the annual Celebration of Cultures has become one of Trinity’s most beloved traditions. March 22 was a day set aside to share and celebrate cultures inside our classrooms as well as through special performances throughout the day, including Trinity’s all-school assembly. Students, faculty, staff, and parent volunteers were encouraged to dress up in a way that highlighted aspects of their ethnicity, race, heritage, nationality, hobbies, or interests. This year’s Celebration included a puppet show, flamenco guitarist, Bollywood dancers, therapy llamas, a bagpiper, and a Chinese lion dance.
Fourth Grade Westward Expansion
In March, Trinity Fourth Graders took a step back in time to the 1800s as they concluded their exploration of pioneer life on the Oregon Trail. After weeks of learning about the challenges and adventures of settlers expanding into the American West, the students experienced a culminating event with their moms and special friends. Fourth Graders donned western attire, gathered around the campfire to enjoy a hearty breakfast, participated in games and challenges, showcased their newfound knowledge and skills, and showed off their model homesteads, the result of their group project.
Fifth Grade Olympics
May 3 was a thrilling day for Fifth Graders as they took part in their annual Olympics. The students put their athletic skills to the test and displayed remarkable teamwork and sportsmanship as they cheered on their classmates. The day was filled with a variety of challenging competitions, including relay races, hurdles, and high jumps. Every single student who participated in this incredible event displayed hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship and made the day a huge success.
Sixth Grade Performance
For the 46th year, the Sixth Grade Leadership Class performed an annual musical production with Second through Fifth Grade students participating as members of the chorus. During the spring musical, Pirates of the Curry Bean, we followed the adventures of twins Jack and Liza Periwinkle, who found a treasure map. Redbeard and his Pirates of the Curry Bean intervened, kidnapping their mother. Alongside their cat Fiddlesticks, the twins joined a mad admiral and his crazy crew on a wild journey from London to the island of Lumbago. Did they find the treasure, or something even more precious? This fullscale musical featured incredible set design, extravagant costumes, and catchy live singing.
Kindergarten Chick Masters
Since 2008, Kindergartners have explored chicken life cycles, learning responsibility and compassion through egg care, hatching, and chick nurturing. This exploration is part of a broader study on the classification and life cycles of animals, including fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. Over a two-week period in May, Kindergartners traveled with their chicks and visited students in other grades to share all they had learned during their time as Chick Masters.
Field Day
A Trinity tradition since 1986, Field Day is an end-of-theyear celebration for Kindergarten through Sixth Grade students. Held over two days in May, the event included athletic competitions and Sportsmanship Awards for each grade. From tug-of-war to potato sack races, students enjoyed these fun-filled days.
1. Third Grade Living Museum
2. Kindergarten Trip Around the World
3. Second Grade Valentine Necklaces
All traditions occurred during the second half of the 2023-24 school year.
4. Sixth Grade Performance
5. Kindergarten Chick Masters
6. Pre-K Olympics
7. Fifth Grade Olympics
8 Celebration of Cultures
9. 101 Days of First Grades
10. Fourth Grade Westward Expansion 11. Celebration of Cultures 12. First Grade Zoo Exhibit
13. First Grade Zoo Exhibit 14. Field Day
15. Kindergarten Trip Around the World
16. Pre-K Olympics
Features
Trinity’s approach to digital awareness and safety
By Nicole Fash, Director of Marketing and Communications
At Trinity School, we believe in a thoughtful approach to technology that aligns with our goal to cherish childhood while preparing students for the future. In today’s world, technology is an invaluable tool for learning, but it must be used intentionally and responsibly to avoid the risks of overuse, especially in young children. Trinity’s updated Technology Use Policy, along with the introduction of our Digital Awareness and Safety Committee, helps ensure that we are providing age-appropriate access to technology while supporting families as they navigate their children’s digital lives.
Developing good habits early
The elementary years are a critical time for children to begin forming healthy technology habits. During this stage, students are laying the foundation for responsible digital behavior, which will influence their relationship with technology throughout their lives. By teaching them to use technology as a tool—rather than a source of constant entertainment—we help ensure they grow into independent and confident users of digital resources.
“At this age, children are highly impressionable, and the habits they form now, whether it’s about screen time or
how they engage online, will stick with them,” says Joe Marshall, Head of School. “Our role as educators and parents is to guide them towards a balanced, healthy use of technology, ensuring it enhances their education without overtaking other aspects of their development.”
Technology as a tool, not a crutch
At Trinity, technology is integrated into the classroom to enhance learning, but always in a way that complements our broader educational goals.
As students move from Early Learners through Sixth Grade, they are gradually introduced to technology in an age-appropriate manner. Younger students focus more on hands-on learning methods and personal interactions, while older students are given more responsibility in managing school-provided devices like iPads and Chromebooks.
By carefully regulating this access, we foster independence and confidence while discouraging an over-reliance on screens. It’s during these elementary years that students learn how to engage responsibly with digital devices alongside unstructured play and face-to-face interaction.
Fourth Graders Zoe and Rouyi collaborate in their MiTech class, coding their Sphero to adjust speed and timing in a dynamic challenge, fostering problem-solving skills, teamwork, and critical thinking.
Trinity students enjoy ample device-free activities like unstructured play during recess, fostering creativity, social skills, and a love for exploration.
“We see technology as one of many instructional tools,” says Mr. Marshall. “It’s valuable for engaging students in learning, but it’s equally important that they also have ample time for play, building social skills, and hands-on activities. Striking that balance is key to helping them develop a healthy relationship with technology.”
Safety as a priority
Additionally, Trinity has always led with safety, and that remains a top focus of the School’s Technology Use Policy.
“Our comprehensive firewall, antivirus software, and cloudbased security systems ensure students are safeguarded on all Trinity-provided devices on campus,” says Director of Education Technology Jeff Morrison. “Additionally, we have Go Guardian monitoring Upper Elementary Chromebooks, which may be used at home. We’re able to quickly address any inappropriate activity in partnership with school counselors and division heads.”
Building a community of support
Recognizing the growing concerns among parents about technology and social media, Trinity has introduced the Digital Awareness and Safety Committee. This new Trinity School Parents’ Association-led initiative aims to provide resources, events, and support for families as they make decisions about their children’s technology use at home.
“The idea for the committee emerged from casual conversations among parents about concerns over smartphones and social media, conversations we quickly recognized were part of a broader conversation,” say the committee’s co-chairs, Sarah Hornsby, Kara Marsden, Natalie Morreale, and Heather Ross. “We realized that while many of us are tech-savvy, we’re not always sure how to guide our kids in this area.
“Our original goal was to find other families interested in delaying smartphones and social media so that our children didn’t feel excluded,” they continue. “As we talked with other parents, we realized that above all else, our children’s mental health is our top priority. Our goal has evolved into providing an inclusive, non-judgmental environment in which we provide parents with information and resources and allow them to apply that to their own family, however they see fit. We respect each family’s right to set their own rules regarding technology use, and this committee aims to support our families in making informed decisions on access to smartphones, social media, parental controls, and more.”
The committee is also focused on fostering community collaboration.
According to the committee co-chairs, “We can’t do this alone. By coming together as a community, we can create an environment where children don’t feel isolated for having limited tech or social media access. We want parents to feel supported in setting boundaries.”
Initiatives and events on the horizon
As part of Trinity’s ongoing efforts to collect feedback from parents and how we can best support them, we conducted a survey in mid-August to better understand our students’ use of technology at home and parents’ concerns and preferences regarding technology use. Nearly half of Trinity’s families completed the survey, and their responses are already helping tailor resources and education opportunities to support families in navigating their children’s digital experiences.
This school year, the Digital Awareness and Safety Committee is lining up events to help parents engage with the topic of digital safety and awareness, including a screening of the documentary Childhood 2.0 and a panel discussion to explore the impact of technology on children’s mental health that occurred on October 24. Additionally, the committee plans to host a book club and several gatherings—including Community Life and Engagement Chats focused on technology—to encourage open dialogue among parents.
“We know that it’s hard for many parents to find time to attend meetings during the school day,” says the Digital Awareness and Safety Chairs. “That’s why we’re also creating a dedicated section in My Trinity, where parents can access curated materials on digital safety and children’s mental health anytime.”
A holistic approach to digital awareness
Trinity School is dedicated to equipping students with the skills they need to use technology effectively and responsibly while providing parents with a range of resources to guide their children’s technology use at home. Our approach ensures that technology is one of many tools students can utilize for academic success, complementing our larger goal of nurturing well-rounded, healthy children.
“Our partnership between home and school will help equip not only our students with a wide view of the benefits and consequences of technology but also our students’ parents,” says Joe. “Part of Trinity’s commitment to cherishing the wonder of childhood is ensuring that our digital landscape supports, not dominates our students’ growth. By working together, we can foster an environment where technology enhances learning and development while preserving the elements of play, creativity, and personal interaction that are crucial for our elementary-aged students.”
Growing values: Trinity’s Character Trait initiative
By Sheree Du Preez, Early Elementary Division Head
Trinity School’s mission is clear: to create a nurturing environment where children grow into knowledgeable, skilled, and compassionate individuals. We believe education goes beyond academics; it’s about shaping responsible, productive, and empathetic citizens who contribute positively to their communities. We are excited to share our school-wide Character Trait initiative, designed to instill essential values in our students.
At the Early Elementary Division Gathering on September 6, a representative from each classroom shared their class’s description of what makes a person a good community member.
“Our Medals of Virtue project happens in conjunction with the music department’s Fourth Grade Patriotic Performance,” says Upper Elementary Art Teacher Emily Davis. “This project uses the school-wide Character Traits initiative to create visual representations of Trinity’s shared values in the form of an embossed medal artwork. We begin by examining commonly used symbols and their meanings. Students then make connections between these symbols and a monthly or bimonthly trait, creating medals that represent each trait through imagery. This process allows students to deeply understand and embody the meaning of each characteristic, transforming their insights into beautiful, tangible objects. For example, one student used blossoming flowers to represent optimism. Another used scales to symbolize fairness and respect. Some students even discovered unique new symbols, such as pelicans to represent respect.”
Aligning with our mission
This initiative began last school year and is a natural extension of our commitment to fostering a community of learners where every child is encouraged to reach their full potential. Character education is integral to this journey, particularly during these formative elementary years. By focusing on traits like respect, responsibility, empathy, integrity, and perseverance, we aim to develop not only learners but also individuals who understand the importance of making a positive impact on the world.
Each month or two, we highlight a specific character trait that aligns with our mission. These traits are introduced in a way that resonates with our students’ daily experiences. This initiative is not only a teaching tool; it is a way to weave character education into the fabric of our school community.
To bring these traits to life, teachers incorporate engaging activities and lessons that encourage students to practice and reflect on each trait. For instance, during Kindness Month, students participate in a “Kindness Challenge,” during which they are encouraged to perform acts of kindness for classmates, teachers, and family members at home.
Engaging the community
Our initiative extends beyond the classroom. We believe in the power of a community-wide approach, in which teachers, parents, and staff all play a crucial role in reinforcing our values.
The traits are communicated through classroom newsletters to parents, who are invited to join us on this journey. By engaging in discussions at home, encouraging children to embody each trait as it is introduced throughout the year, and sharing their own experiences, parents can help us nurture the character needed for students to succeed in life and make meaningful contributions to the world around them.
Looking ahead
We are excited to witness the growth of our students as they embrace each character trait. Trinity School is dedicated to helping our students flourish in all aspects of their development, creating lasting impacts that extend far beyond the classroom, and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
During the EED Gathering, one class per grade is recognized for exemplifying that month’s trait and has the honor of displaying a Terrific Tiger Award in their classroom until the next gathering.
Trinity’s 2024–2025 Character Trait Calendar
August/September - Community
Creating an environment of belonging and shared purpose.
Similar Traits: Teamwork, Unity, Relationships, Connection, Cooperation
October - Kindness
Demonstrating high regard or consideration for someone or something.
Similar Traits: Fairness, Politeness, Open-Mindedness, Empathy, Respect
November/December - Gratitude
Appreciating things and circumstances in one’s life as well as the kindness and actions of others. Desiring to give back to others out of appreciation for what has been given.
Similar Traits: Thankfulness, Contentment, Service, Generosity
January - Responsibility
Accountable for one’s actions and choices without blaming others. Recognizing what needs to be done and doing it without prompting from others.
Similar Traits: Initiative, Diligence, Perseverance, Resilience, Self-Control, Hard Work, Commitment
February - Compassion
Showing concern and sympathy for others.
Similar Traits: Friendliness, Empathy, Kindness, Acceptance, Courtesy, Fairness, Helpfulness
March/April - Integrity
Demonstrating courage to do what is right or stand up for beliefs even when it is difficult or no one is watching.
Similar Traits: Honesty, Fairness, Courage, Trustworthy, Reliable, Dependable
May - Optimism
Maintaining a positive attitude.
Similar Traits: Hope, Confidence, Positivity, Cheerfulness
The earliest organizers of what would later be known as Spotlight on Art include Carol Overend, Judy Sells, and Adgate Cole, who are photographed posing with art that was up for auction at the Trinity Art Auction that was held on February 25, 1978.
Some members of last year's Spotlight leadership team—Market Chair Kara Guidry, Spotlight on Art Chair Emily Mills, Market Chair and Spotlight on Art Chair-Elect Alice Brown, and Market Chair Dorsey Bryan—pose with art during the Artists Market that was held January 29–February 3.
Spotlight on Art history grounded in parent volunteerism
By Leisy Stevenson, Director of Spotlight on Art and Special Events
Since its beginning, Spotlight on Art has evolved into a celebrated tradition at Trinity School, with strong parent volunteerism as its backbone. What began in 1976 as a one-day, offcampus art auction has transformed into the vibrant multi-event series we know today. The first auction, held at the Spirit of Colony Square Room, was a public event with a $1.50 admission fee that featured works by renowned artists like Cezanne, Chagall, Picasso, and Renoir. This impressive collection was curated by the Howard Mann Art Center of New Jersey, with the esteemed art dealer Howard Mann conducting the auction.
Over the next several years, the auction continued to grow under the leadership of the Trinity School Parents’ Association, including TSPA Presidents Barbara and Ray Trapnell, Carol and George Overend, Adgate and Dargan Cole, Patty and Charlie King, and Margaret and Jerry Blackstock. By 1982, the auction had taken on a new identity, focusing exclusively on Georgia artists. This shift was the vision of Bobbie and Eddie Mullen, then parents at Trinity and chairs of the auction, who established “Spotlight on Georgia Artists.” The event, hosted at the Atlanta Apparel Mart, showcased 117 pieces curated by the respected art consultant Marianne Lambert, who would go on to produce the event for many years. In 1986, under the leadership of chairs Esther and Jim Stokes, the event returned to Colony Square, raising a record-breaking $48,000—a testament to the dedication of parent volunteers. For 10 years, the focus remained on Georgia artists, but in 1992, the event expanded to include two artists from
each of the Southern states. This broadened the reach and appeal, and in 1994, the event was renamed “Spotlight on Southern Artists.” It now spanned a week of art previews, educational activities, and social gatherings, culminating in a lively auction at the J.W. Marriott at Lenox Square—a precursor to today’s dynamic Gala and Auction.
The year 2003 marked a significant milestone when the Artists Market found its permanent home in the Allison Williams Activity Center (AWAC) on Trinity’s newly developed campus. By 2005, the event had officially adopted the name “Spotlight on Art,” reflecting its growing scope and reputation. Today, Spotlight on Art thrives thanks to the tireless efforts of more than 100 parent volunteers, whose dedication continues to make this annual series of events a resounding success. Last school year alone, their efforts raised an impressive $735,000 for Trinity School. We are incredibly proud of the 2024 team, and have already had a great start to the 43rd Spotlight on Art. This year’s series kicked off with the An Evening with Neiman Marcus event on October 23 and continued with the Conference Pop-Up Shop held at Trinity School on October 28 and 29.
As we look forward to the upcoming Artists Market in late January and the Gala and Auction in February, we’re grateful for the program’s rich history and the unwavering commitment of our parent volunteers. Their enthusiasm not only created this beloved tradition but also pushed it to new heights, making Spotlight on Art an integral part of Trinity’s community spirit.
Artists Market
January 27–February 1, 2025
Featuring the work of more than 300 selected artists, spanning all price points and styles, the Artists Market includes an ever-changing inventory in 6,000 square feet of gallery space. An average of 1,000 pieces of artwork are sold daily, and curated sections include contemporary, expressionism, home, jewelry, realism/impressionism, and whimsical.
Opening Night Celebration
Monday, January 27 | 6–9 PM
Cocktails and Canvases
Friday, January 31 | 6–8 PM
The Market is held at Trinity School, open to the public, and includes free parking and admission. Visit SpotlightOnArt.com to see daily market hours and learn about this year’s artists.
Gala and Auction Celebration
Friday, February 21, 2025
Atlanta History Center
130 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta
Current parents, faculty, staff, and Trustees are invited to this special evening that is the culminating Spotlight on Art event. Tickets must be purchased in advance and last year’s event sold out quickly. Other members of the Trinity community can participate by bidding online for items.
In preparing this article, we delved into the Trinity archives to include as many individuals as possible who played a key role in the evolution of Spotlight on Art. We welcome any additional information you might have regarding the history of this incredible fundraiser and community builder. Contact Leisy Stevenson at lstevenson@trinityatl.org or 404-231-8119.
595 campers participated in 90 camps during the summer of 2024.
Activities in the Afternoon
Cookies, Cakes, and Treats, Oh My!
Super Scientists
Embark on an unforgettable experience at Trinity
School Summer Camp!
Trinity School Summer Camp offers a variety of academic, specialty, and sports camps for children ages 4 to 13. From art to Legos, science to sports, select your child’s summer adventure from our weekly camps that will run June 2–27* and July 28–August 1. They can join us in Before-Camp Care, Activities in the Afternoon, and After-Camp Care to extend their summer fun to a full day, from 7:30 AM–4 PM!
Trinity School Summer Camp is open to the public, and registration will open at 10 AM on January 23, 2025. Many camps fill up on the first day of registration, so register early for the best selection.
www.trinityatl.org/summercamp
Contact Kayleen Whitmer, Director of Extended Programs, at kwhitmer@trinityatl.org for more information.
*Trinity School will be closed on June 19 in honor of Juneteenth; no camps will be offered on that day.
Alumni
A special Q&A with Wiley Ballard ’06
By Anne Torrey McCuean ’08, Advancement Associate and Alumni Relations
I recently had the pleasure of catching up with Trinity alum Wiley Ballard from the Class of 2006. Wiley has had an incredible experience as a sports broadcaster, interviewing renowned athletes and covering historic games and competitions. He shared how his early days at Trinity had a tremendous impact on who he is today and how grateful he is for the strong foundation he gained at his elementary school alma mater. Wiley matriculated to The Westminster Schools and later graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Georgia Tech in 2017.
Q: What are your ties to Atlanta? Why did your family choose Trinity for you?
A: I was born and raised in Atlanta, just like my father. My parents chose Trinity because of its sterling reputation within the Atlanta community. They also believed I would benefit from having a multi-school experience from elementary through high school.
Q: Please tell us about your career path and how you got into sports broadcasting.
A: My closest lifelong friends, whom I met at Trinity, will testify that I have dreamed of being a sports broadcaster since I was eight years old. After broadcasting our school sports during my last two years of high school, I chose
Georgia Tech because I knew they needed a baseball announcer. In fact, I majored in Business, not Journalism or Broadcasting, because Georgia Tech did not offer those degrees.
During my college decision-making process, I reached out to veteran play-by-play announcers and asked for their advice. Many of them encouraged me to prioritize on-air reps over a specialized degree when choosing a school. I don’t think I could have received a better piece of advice. At the end of the day, employers are much more interested in your demo reels than your resume or diploma. Just find a way to get on the air! Additionally, I thought a degree in Business Administration from Georgia Tech would make me desirable across a wide range of industries. I knew how competitive the sports broadcasting industry was going to be, therefore I wanted to have a versatile degree to fall back on.
From that point forward, I tried to say “yes” to every opportunity available to me. This included a variety of sports—football, baseball, basketball, softball, volleyball, swimming/diving, flag football, etc.—in various roles including broadcaster, statistician, writer, and press conference moderator.
Five years ago, I began working for Bally Sports as an associate producer on the Atlanta Braves telecasts. Since then, my role has expanded from graphics coordinator to sideline reporter. I’ve also covered a variety of ACC and SEC sports for ESPN’s digital broadcasts.
Q: What is the most exciting thing you have done career wise?
A: My most thrilling opportunity thus far occurred just recently. I filled in as the lead play-by-play announcer for the Atlanta Braves Radio Network on a home series against the St. Louis Cardinals. I worked alongside Joe Simpson, whom I grew up listening to during Braves games on television. My dream is to be a full-time play-by-play announcer for Major League Baseball.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
A: I love to be active. I currently play in a men’s ice hockey league, and every winter I try to snow-ski as often as possible. I also like to play golf, read, and travel. Within the last month alone, I’ve visited multiple Trinity classmates in New York and Nashville.
2001-02
Q: Tell us what you remember most about your time at Trinity. What are some of your favorite Trinity memories?
A: My first experience in front of a large audience was when I played Fritz in our Fifth Grade production of The Nutcracker Sharon Vrieland and Frederica Thames were our directors. I also remember traveling to New York and performing a concert at Carnegie Hall with my classmates! I vividly remember the Greek Olympics. I was a part of Thebes and our T-shirts were tie-dyed. I remember performing very well in the high jump in front of the entire school. It was a great thrill.
The other teachers who had a tremendously positive impact on me were Loretta Fine and Brian Balocki. Looking back, they instilled strong values and a positive attitude that I carry with me to this day. I remember thinking Coach Brian was somebody I wanted to be like when I grew up.
I also remember winning the Sportsmanship Award in Fourth Grade. It meant so much to me because it was voted upon by my classmates. I felt like it signified that I had a positive impact on our class.
Wiley interviews Braves Manager Brian Snitker during the Braves home opener on April 5.
Wiley's school portrait from the fall of 2000.
During the
school year, Wiley and his schoolmates participated in the Trinity Track Club’s afterschool program, which was led by Coach Brian Balocki.
Matthew Grimes Jr./Atlanta Braves
Q: What about your time at Trinity do you think had the biggest impact on your life today?
A: The friendships I built with my peers. I can easily rattle off half a dozen names of close friends today whom I first met at Trinity. The trust and community I felt at Trinity armed me with a supportive foundation as I navigated the ups, downs, and uncertainties of adolescence and early adulthood. To this day I lean on my Trinity classmates for love and support, as I’ve known many of them since I was just three or four years old.
Q: Any advice for Trinity students?
A: Raise your hand! I learned at an early age that there’s no better way to learn and feel included than by participating.
Like almost everything in life, I believe that you get out what you put into your education. Participating in a classroom setting gave me a sense of purpose and confidence.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
A: Only that I’m grateful. I’m grateful for the idyllic campus. I’m grateful for the teachers like Brian Balocki, Loretta Fine, Sharon Vrieland, Frederica Thames, and many more. I’m grateful for my friends. Ultimately, I feel like I left Trinity believing not only that I could be a leader in my community but also that I had an obligation to do so.
Wiley catches up with his former classmate Michael Russell '06 at the Braves opening weekend in Philadelphia on March 30.
Trinity’s Class of 2018: What college did they choose?
Ava Aleman, Southern Methodist University
Smith Alford, Texas A&M University
Wyatt Alford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Jackson Allegra, Temple University
Harrison Armentrout, Auburn University
Aidan Barnard, Furman University
Jonathan Barr, Georgia Institute of Technology
Leah Black-Holmes, Harvard University
Marshall Cain, Wofford College
Isabelle Cascone, University of Georgia
Julian Cassinelli Swarthmore College
Stella Chambless, Georgia Institute of Technology
Fifo Chlopek, Northeastern University
Owen Cohn, Indiana University
Mary Dudley Cornett, University of Mississippi
Ashton Dadlani, Vanderbilt University
Jay Decker, Purdue University
Ayanna Desai, Vanderbilt University
Davis Dickson, Rhodes College
Harrison Dixon, University of Georgia
Katherine Scott Drake, University of Alabama
Eden Foster, Tulane University
Ariana Frinks, Spelman College
Alice Gash, University of Georgia
Samantha Golden, Tulane University
Piper Gotch, University of Virginia
Jett Hartley, United States Military Academy West Point
Mia Heath, Howard University
Tucker Herakovich, The George Washington University
Gabe Herlong, Louisiana State University
Elizabeth Hodges, Wake Forest University
Sarah Kim, Brown University
Palmer Kloberdanz, University of Texas
Chiara Krishna-Reddy, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Elise Kuzniak, University of Georgia
Sophie Latz, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Aggie Law, University of Notre Dame
Preston Lusink, University of Alabama
Claire Markwalter, Pomona College
Alexis McDonald, University of Georgia
Alex McGruder, Syracuse University
Mary Anna Mirgorod, Furman University
Edee Moorman, University of Georgia
Evvie Morgan, Wake Forest University
India Motley, Flagler College
Nathan Musierowicz, University of Georgia
Noah Ottinger, Virginia Tech
Luke Parikh, University of Notre Dame
Tyler Phillips, Tulane University
Dorian Pinkston, University of South Carolina
Olivia Pryor, University of Georgia
Claire Quinn, University of Mississippi
Kyla Quiñones, University of South Carolina
James Rhee, Stanford University
Emma Grace Roe, Belmont University
Logan Schwartz, Rochester Institute of Technology
Sennett Shaver, Auburn University
Victoria Simms, Auburn University
Church Simon, University of St. Andrews
Lawton Sodemann, Auburn University
Anna Stewart, University of Colorado at Boulder
Byrnes Sudlow Jr., Mississippi State University
Mikaella Thaiya, University of Virginia
George Thompson VI, Vanderbilt University
Gibson Thompson, Rhodes College
Liza Walker, University of Tampa
Wright Williams, Hamilton College
Class of 2024
I am leaving Trinity with...
Adiele Akinwumi
The Lovett School all of the friendships I’ve made with people older and younger than me, all of the growth I’ve made throughout my seven years at Trinity, and all of the memories.
William Askew-Norton
Woodward Academy all the amazing friends I have made here.
Prosser Brown Marist School fun memories of outdoor ed trips.
Emma Coote
The Westminster Schools great experiences, great leadership, and good friends.
Vivian Corey
The Westminster Schools a love of learning math, a hard-working ethic, confidence when I speak, and leadership skills I will keep forever. I leave with a full heart and confidence in myself.
Poppy Dixon
The Lovett School
a love for writing that my teachers instilled in me and amazing memories throughout my six years at Trinity. Over time, I have bonded with so many people and even though some friendships came and went, the most important friendships stayed. I will always remember Trinity and how I grew up in this lovely school.
Elle Duvall
The Lovett School
a great love for all my teachers and friends, as well as amazing skills of leadership and education. I leave Trinity with love.
Alden Earley
The Paideia School friendships and a greater understanding of math. I also am leaving Trinity with great memories of the prep for the school play and outdoor ed.
Paige Ederle
The Westminster Schools I am leaving Trinity with a love for teamwork. Trinity has taught me how important teamwork activities are and why we should appreciate them.
Brynn Giampaolo
The Westminster Schools great leadership skills, great relationships with my peers and my teachers, and great memories of Wagon Train, Fifth Grade Olympics, and the Sixth Grade Musical.
Galina Glass
East Cobb Middle School a strong bond of friendship that will never be broken as well as nine years of memories and education.
Jayden Guthrie
The Lovett School a different perspective on life and others.
Clara Hartman
The Westminster Schools great memories of teachers, friendships, great lessons learned, and the confidence that Trinity has instilled in me.
Johnathan Hartman
The Westminster Schools love for the teachers that taught me all the things I know and the friendships that I have made over the years.
Kieran Ingley
The Westminster Schools good memories and a great start to middle school and high school. My teachers have had a great impact on how I will continue learning and my future, which will be great because of Trinity.
Lorelei Lipson
Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School the knowledge that I have gone to the best school that gave me a great education and experiences, a love of learning, great bonds with all the amazing people in my grade, and all the skills I need to thrive in the future.
Lauren Love
The Westminster Schools confidence in myself and my learning and the friendships I have made along the way.
Ekeoma Makanjuola
The Westminster Schools special friendships throughout my time here; winning first place in the golden ring toss during the Fifth Grade Olympics; and being Redbeard for the Sixth Grade Musical, Leonardo DaVinci for the Third Grade Living Museum, and a baker for The Nutcracker.
Shan Mistry
The Westminster Schools a lot of good friends and knowledge.
John Monk
The Westminster Schools great memories of the amazing spaces and the teachers who taught me great teamwork skills. Although I am excited to move on, I will miss all of it.
Sofia Peralta
The Lovett School a love of learning math, great friendships that have grown over my years at Trinity, and the wonderful teachers who have shaped me into the person I am.
Macaulay Poer
The Westminster Schools many memories from exciting outdoor ed trips and other field trips, friendships with people that I will never forget, teachers who have made learning fun, and skills I will take with me to my next school. Overall, Trinity has been an amazing experience for me, and I’ll miss it very much.
Louis Ricci
Dickerson Middle School good friends and teachers who have cared about me.
Elinor Schwartz
The Westminster Schools new friends, a newfound love for science, a newfound hatred for fishing (learned at outdoor ed), and memories of amazing teachers who made learning fun.
Alex Sindoni
The Lovett School my interest in learning new things and the memories I have shared with friends and teachers.
Lingyi Sun
The Westminster Schools great memories, such as performing in the musical, loving teachers and classmates, and wonderful experiences.
Alumni Events
Hartman
Alumni Association Welcome Luncheon
On May 10, we welcomed the newest members of the Trinity School Alumni Association! Our 2024 Sixth Grade Leadership Class created care packages to be sent to Trinity alums who were also graduating in the spring and starting a new venture, whether that be their freshman year of college, taking a gap year, or starting a business! After enjoying a celebratory pizza lunch with ice cream sundaes, our soon-to-be alums each received a copy of Dr. Seuss’s iconic book Oh, the Places You’ll Go that had been signed by their former teachers, sending them off with well wishes on their next chapter.
As one of their final acts as Trinity Sixth Graders, Prosser Brown ’24, Sofia Peralta ’24, Galina Glass ’24, Clara Hartman ’24, and Poppy Dixon ’24 create care packages for members of Trinity’s Class of 2018.
Alumni and Parent of Alumni Cocktail Hour
On February 2, Parents of Alumni and Alumni 21 years and older came together on the culminating night of the 2024 Spotlight on Art Artists Market. The evening was filled with joyful reunions and fond recollections of memories made as parents and students at Trinity from days’ past.
Elle Duvall ’24 and Brynn Giampaolo ’24 reminisce over beloved memories as Trinity students.
Johnathan
’24 reads encouraging notes from his Trinity Teachers.
Sarah Grace Barr ’13 and Audrey Tomko ’13 smile for a photo while looking through a Trinity yearbook.
Alumni parents Susan Parsons and Holly DeLoach enjoy catching up over fond Trinity traditions.
Class of 2018 Reunion
We welcomed the Class of 2018 and their families back to campus on April 21. This annual reunion is always a joyous occasion for alums and their families to re-connect with former classmates and peers and to celebrate their upcoming high school graduation. Everyone enjoyed dinner from Willy’s Mexicana Grill as members of the Class of 2018 participated in the Trinity tradition of receiving and reading letters that they had written to themselves as Sixth Graders.
Black-Holmes ’18, Eden Foster ’18, Piper Gotch ’18, Elizabeth Hodges ’18, Dorian Pinkston ’18, Mia Heath ’18, Isabelle Cascone ’18, Lawton Sodemann ’18, Owen Cohn ’18, and Alex McGruder ’18 smile with their former teacher Kate Burton.
Alumni Kickball Game
The Second annual Alumni Kickball Game was a hit! Alums from the Classes of 2018–2023 enjoyed a fun afternoon of kickball led by Trinity’s P.E. Team while catching up with former classmates.
Leah
Edee Moorman ’18 laughs while reading the letter she wrote to herself as a Sixth Grader.
Aggie Law ’18, Katherine Scott Drake ’18, Mary Dudley Cornett ’18, and Olivia Pryor ’18 pose for a photo with Fifth Grade Lead Teacher Kathy Bruyn.
Alana Frinks ’22, Ava Gillian ’22, and Belle Moore ’22 enjoy Kona Ice after a warm afternoon of kickball.
Alums from Trinity’s Classes of 2018–2023 smile for a group photo on the Upper Elementary Division playground.
100% Trustee participation
600 students are impacted by The Trinity Fund
You fund
The Trinity Fund is the foundation of philanthropic support for our students and everything they experience here. Gifts to this annual giving initiative are used to address Trinity’s immediate needs, such as curricular enhancements, classroom improvements, faculty salaries, technology, and need-based financial assistance.
100% faculty and staff participation for 30 years
96% parent participation last year
100% of your gift is tax deductible
With your support, The Trinity Fund gives the School the necessary resources to elevate the Trinity Experience from a great one to an exceptional one.
Make your gift online today at trinityatl.org/give
In Memoriam
Allen Binford Carter ’86, lovingly known as “Ben,” passed away suddenly at the age of 49 on June 8. Born in San Francisco on September 18, 1974, Ben was the eldest son of Dr Allen Connard Carter and Dr Juanita Robinson Carter. He grew up in Stone Mountain and Atlanta, Georgia, where his Trinity School years marked the beginning of a life defined by achievement, service, and leadership
After Trinity, Ben continued his education at Marist School and The Paideia School, where he thrived both academically and athletically.
A star athlete in basketball and soccer, Ben also embraced a range of other talents, playing the alto saxophone, DJing, and actively participating in the Stone Mountain Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. His time at Paideia culminated in his receipt of the prestigious “Headmaster’s Award,” honoring his outstanding academic performance, leadership, and civic engagement.
Ben attended Howard University in Washington, DC, where he graduated cum laude as a Walter P Annenberg Honors Scholar with a double major in Telecommunication Management and Spanish. A proud member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Ben’s life embodied the fraternity’s values of “manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind He was an active member of the Howard University Alumni Club of Atlanta, encouraging others to follow in his footsteps.
Always one to further his education, Ben also pursued studies at the University of Salamanca in Spain during his time at Howard and earned a master’s certificate from the Universidad Ibero Americana in Mexico. Additionally, Ben completed the National Association of Broadcasters’ Broadcast Leadership Training program.
Ben’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to a distinguished career in media and consulting. He founded Carter Media Consulting in Houston, Texas, in 2003 and worked with radio stations across the U.S., establishing himself as a respected voice in the industry. He went on to work with New Revenue Solutions and later became vice president and part owner of Talero Tequila, a role in which he generously supported community events and fostered lasting relationships.
Throughout his life, Ben was known for his dedication to family and friends. He is survived by his parents; his brother, Robert Anthony “Tony” Carter; and many other family members and friends who cherish his memory.
Class Notes
By Anne Torrey McCuean ’08, Advancement Associate and Alumni Relations
1
Hall McKinley IV ’00 and his wife, Sarah McKinley, welcomed their daughter, Claire Cox McKinley, on March 29. Claire joined proud big brother Hall McKinley V.
2
Mark Shaw Jr. ’00 and his wife, Elizabeth Shaw, welcomed their first child, Virginia “Betts” Shaw, on May 16.
3
Julia Richardson Ethridge ’04 and her husband, William Ethridge, welcomed their daughter, Josephine Ethridge, on February 12. Josephine joined proud big brother William.
4
Kelly Boyd Spring ’04 and her husband, Berton Spring, welcomed their first child, Campbell Frederick Spring, on August 22.
5
Anna Jump ’05 married Kevin Curry on May 4 in Atlanta. The wedding party included Trinity alums Miller Jump ’03, Patton Callaway ’05, and Mary Zack H’Doubler ’05
6 Kendall Greer Smith ’06 and her husband, Evyn Smith, welcomed their first child, Elise Nicole Smith, on March 22, 2023.
Follow @trinityschoolalums on Instagram to keep up with alumni news, events, and more!
Email Anne Torrey at amccuean@trinityatl.org or visit www.trinityatl.org/alumni to submit Class Notes and update your contact information.
7
Cici Calhoun ’09 graduated from Mercer University’s Physician Assistant Program in May, when she received a master’s degree in Medical Science. She became a nationally certified Physician’s Assistant in June and will begin practicing medicine as a PA-C later this year.
8
Liz Phelps Seay ’09 graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. Her husband, Matt Seay, also graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. The couple was married at home in Atlanta in 2021 and had a reception at the Atlanta History Center in 2022. They now reside in Fort Worth, Texas, where Liz is an interior designer and Matt is an aeronautical engineer.
9
Tyler Gillikin ’10 recently graduated from Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine and has begun his residency in Internal Medicine at Duke University.
10
Alison Nichols ’10 is pursuing her career as a country music artist in Nashville. She signed her first record deal with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville in March and is currently working on an album set to be released in early 2025. Her love of music was sparked when she was a Trinity student, including her lead role as Josephine in the Sixth Grade opera performance of H.M.S. Pinafore. Her talent for singing, songwriting, and performing continued to soar to new heights as she matriculated to The Westminster Schools and Southern Methodist University, where she graduated from Cox School of Business with honors in 2020.
11
Members of the Class of 2018 who graduated from The Westminster Schools pose for a group photo with Stripes!
Front Row: Sarah Kim, Mia Heath, Claire Quinn, Anna Stewart
Second Row: Madeline Wright, Sophie Latz, Mary Kent Bowen, Emma Grace Roe, Leah Black-Holmes, Evvie Morgan, Emerson Noone Samantha Golden Luke Parikh
Third row: Alexis McDonald, Tucker Herakovich, Chiara KrishnaReddy, Gibson Thompson, Fifo Chlopek, Smith Alford, Alex McGruder, Canon Moore, Nathan Musierowicz
Back Row: Jett Hartley, Lawton Sodemann, Hillis Kopecky, James Rhee, Owen Cohn, Harrison Dixon, Jacob Wood
Not pictured: Saanjali Ganesh George Jabren Finn Regal Church Simon
Follow @trinityschoolalums on Instagram to keep up with alumni news, events, and more!
12
Owen Cohn ’18, James Rhee ’18, Lawton Sodemann ’18, and Gibson Thompson ’18 were all part of the varsity baseball team at The Westminster Schools that won the Regional Championship for the first time since 2019. They are pictured with three of their other teammates.
13
Pictured from left, members of the Class of 2018 who graduated from Marist School—Aggie Law, Isabelle Cascone, Wyatt Alford, Stella Chambless, and Piper Gotch—enjoy a Spring Break together in Jamaica.
14
Pictured from left, James Rhee ’18, Leah BlackHolmes ’18, Sophie Latz ’18, Emma Grace Roe ’18, Alexis McDonald ’18, Sarah Kim ’18, Luke Parikh ’18, and George Jabren ’18 were all inducted into the Cum Laude Society at The Westminster Schools.
Gibson Thompson ’18 has committed to playing baseball at Rhodes College.
15
Hailey McGruder ’19 was honored at the Georgia Aquarium as Odyssey Atlanta Student Volunteer of the Year. Odyssey’s program supports students emerging primarily from economically disadvantaged Title 1 schools and challenging learning environments, specifically targeting Atlanta Public School students in rising Grades 1 to 12 from underserved communities.
16
Pictured from left, the following alums from the Class of 2019 received honor awards at The Westminster Schools’s Upper School Honors Awards Ceremony in May: Hailey McGruder, John Overend, Jonathan Hunt, Trevor Dempsey, and Lily Hernandez
17
Wade Tolbert ’19 and Reid Richardson ’19 represented Dynamo Swim Club at the 2024 Georgia Long Course State Championships. Wade is a senior this year at The Paideia School and Reid is a senior at Pace Academy.
18
Pictured from left, Russell Carpenter ’23, Eli Giampaolo ’22, and Asher Easton ’23 are actively progressing forward with the Boy Scouts of America, Westminster Super Troop 197. Russell is a Patrol Leader, Eli is the Senior Patrol Leader, and Asher is the Historian. This photo was taken at the spring Court of Honor, during which they advanced to First Class Scout rank. They are now embarking upon their Star rank.
12
15
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