2013 spring usj magazine by University School of Jackson

Spring 2013

The Magazine UNIVERSITY SCHOOL of JACKSON Inside …

w Meet Stu Hirstein, USJ’s next

Head of School w Math-a-on breaks St. Jude Hospital fundraising record w More students speaking French w Library ‘heart’ of Lower School w Cheerleaders earn national recognition w Alumni news, Homecoming, and more …

e classrooms at USJ are filled with the children of alumni, including those pictured here. For more, turn to the center of the magazine …

Meet USJ’s next Head of

USJ, The Magazine, is published by University School of Jackson. The next issue is September 2013.

n experienced educator. A decorated Gulf War veteran. A college baseball player. A family man. A St. Louis Cardinals fan. Meet Stuart Hirstein — USJ’s next Head of School. “We are counting the days before we move to Jackson,” said Hirstein, who has spent the last eight years in Hawaii with his family. Hirstein decided to start looking for a job in the Southeast after a family vacation with his parents, two sisters, a brother, and their families last July in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. “It had been eight years since we all had been together,” Hirstein said. “Hawaii is just too far away. We wanted to get closer to family.” Meanwhile, USJ’s Head of School Search Committee was looking for a new top administrator to replace Clay Lilienstern, who is moving back to Houston where his family lives at the end of this school year. Hirstein and his wife, Mimi, visited the USJ campus in February and met with parents, faculty members, and board members. “We saw a vibrant school community of happy kids, committed faculty, and supportive parents,” Hirstein said. “Becoming a part of USJ just felt right to us.”

232/240 McClellan Rd. Jackson, TN 38305 731.664.0812 www.usjbruins.org Clay Lilienstern, Head of School Scott Phillipps, Upper School Director Courtney Burnette, Middle School Director Debbie Ford, Lower School Director Kay Shearin, Director of Admissions, 731.660.1692 Mary Reed, Editor and Designer, mary@reedmarketing.com www.reedmarketing.com

New Head of School starts July 1

When the USJ Board extended him an offer, he had no hesitation accepting it. He starts July 1.

Since 2005, Hirstein has been associate headmaster at Island Pacific Academy, an independent, pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade school with 650 students in Kapolei, Hawaii. He served as the institution’s chief operating officer and chief financial officer, was responsible for the school’s day-today operations, and was chief mediator for employee and parent issues. He also served as the school’s academic department chair and was responsible for recruiting faculty and staff. His accomplishments at Island Pacific included leading the team that created the school’s International Baccalaureate Program and starting an orchestra program, college counseling office, marketing program, and athletic department. “With his background in school administration and finance, Stuart is the perfect candidate to meet the demanding expectations of USJ’s Head of School,” said Steve Maroney, chairman of the USJ Board of Trustees.

Education involvement

Hirstein was a National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Fellow for Aspiring Heads of School and a Hawaii Emerging Leader Fellow. He is a consultant for other NAIS schools and received International Baccalaureate training in 2010. He has a master’s in business administration from Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, and a bachelor’s in secondary education from

School

Tusculum College in Greeneville, Tennessee. He attended college on a baseball scholarship. After graduating from Tusculum, he began his career as a high school teacher and then decided to join the U.S. Army to serve his country in both Desert Shield and Desert Storm. A decorated Gulf War veteran, he completed several successful combat missions in Iraq. A friend in the military convinced him to get an MBA and then a job in banking after he left the Army. Among other jobs, he worked at Lehman Brothers in New York City, commuting to work each day. Then came the job burnout. Hirstein said he was waiting for the commuter train in bad The Hirsteins gathered for a picture during last summer’s vacation on the Outer Banks of weather one day when he decided it was time North Carolina. From lower left, they are Camille, Austin, Ansley, Phoebe, Stu, and Mimi. to make a lifestyle change. Daughter Camille is a junior and will remain in Hawaii with her The family moved to Kapolei, Hawaii, when he accepted a mother to finish her senior year in high school. Their daughters, job at the Bank of Hawaii there. He became good friends with Phoebe and Ansley, will move to Jackson with their dad and be the Headmaster at Island Pacific Academy, a new independent in seventh grade at USJ next year. During the transition year, school. Mrs. Hirstein hopes to be in Jackson often. The move to Tennessee brings Hirstein back to the state ‘I realized that education was my calling’ where he attended college, not too far from his son in Knoxville “I would sit in my office at the bank and look out my window at the school,” Hirstein said. “When I was offered the CFO next fall, and closer to his parents, who retired to Murfreesboro for 15 years and now live in Huntsville, Alabama. position, I jumped at the opportunity. I never looked back. I re“I am just thrilled to be coming to USJ,” Hirstein said. “The alized that education was my calling.” family lifestyle and relaxed pace in Jackson is extremely imporThe Hirsteins have four children in their “blended” family. tant to us. Minus the beach and 80-degree year-round weather, Their oldest, Austin, is graduating high school this spring and West Tennessee and Hawaii have a lot in common.” will attend the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, this fall.

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Lower School Math-a-Thon breaks all-time record

t. Jude Children’s Research Hospital holds a special place in the heart of fourth-grader Zakary Henson. He raised more than $5,000 during USJ’s “Dreaming of a Cure” Math-a-Thon in February to benefit kids battling cancer. He called contacts from his father’s phone, went door-todoor, and organized a snack sale with friends and his sister. Other USJ students recognized his hard work and were inspired to raise money for St. Jude. And when the school-wide fundraising total was announced – a whopping $66,307 – students in Zak’s class burst into applause and began chanting his name. But he wouldn’t have it. “This isn’t about me,” Zak said. “We all raised money for St. Jude. Everybody helped. We did it as a team. And it’s not about me or about the class party or about anything else but helping sick kids. We should all be proud of what we’ve done.” He’s right. Lower School children made USJ the top Math-a-Thon fundraiser for St. Jude — no other school has raised that much money over a one-year period. Most children would dread the thought of spending an entire day working on math, but Zak and other students in USJ’s Lower

School found that a day of math activities added up to a day of fun for a great cause. On February 8, the students — from 2 year olds through fifth graders — participated in the Math-aThon to benefit the children at St. Jude. This year, they dedicated their efforts to the memory of Kim Yelverton, a former USJ Lower School Guidance Counselor, who died of pancreatic cancer last July 13. The students amazed even themselves with the amount they raised, said Laura Moore, Lower School Student Advisor and Math-a-Thon coordinator. “I’m speechless. The St. Jude Math-a-Thon was a cause dear to Kim’s heart. We have just been blown away by the students’ response and the creative ways they have come up with to Zakary Henson raise money. I know Kim would be so proud of all their hard work.” The students started raising money weeks in advance by collecting pledges for the number of math problems they would complete in class. Some went door-to-door, some sold snacks at basketball

As Lower School students readied for the Math-a-Thon, Middle School students studied about leukemia

human blood smears to learn to eventh Grade Life Science diagnose the disease. Students Teacher Marcia Moss imalso examined blood smears miplemented a new curricucroscopically to identify normal lum in her classroom that is blood and blood of children being developed by St. Jude with leukemia. Children’s Research Hospital St. Jude is developing the curabout the same time that Lower riculum for K-12 students to School students were raising help children, parents, and money for the hospital. teachers understand the basic Moss learned about the curscience and treatment of cancer, riculum when she attended the Moss said. The program’s objecTennessee Association of Indetives are to educate and dispel pendent Schools convention in From left, Cole Cooper, Ashton Hulme, Amelia Spurlin, and Kavon misconceptions, promote Memphis last fall. healthy lifestyle choices in stuHer students studied chronic Bonakdar look for the presence of leukemia in blood smears. myeloid leukemia, its genetic cause, how it affects the blood, and dents to reduce the risk of cancer as an adult, and increase interest in science and scientific careers. a new chemotherapy drug with only mild side effects that is “This is an exciting opportunity for our seventh graders to be highly successful in treating it. able to test this new curriculum,” Moss said. In two separate labs, students observed karyotypes and 4

for St. Jude fundraisers

games, and others dreamed up other creative ways to raise the money. This was the first year students could also get donations through their own online link at the St. Jude website where friends and family members could donate to the cause. Besides a lot of adding and subtracting, students had plenty of math activities to make the day fun, such as counting snacks, going on a numbers scavenger hunt, and adding up the height of students in a class and then seeing how far that would reach in the hallways. They came to school dressed in pajamas to add to their fun. With Yelverton’s enthusiasm and guidance, Lower School students have been leaders in raising money for the research hospital through a Math-a-Thon every other year. In 2008, the students had one of the most successful Math-a-Thons in the nation when they raised $34,683. They were rewarded with new playground equipment from one of the event’s national sponsors. “This has been a rewarding experience for our children to raise money for such a wonderful cause,” Moore said. “USJ is such a giving community, and I hope that this opportunity will inspire us all. We are all dreaming of a cure!”

Students, including Justus Lake and Esosa Odeh, above, and Hayden Craig and Carter Craig, at left, spent the whole day working on math problems.

‘Q’ and ‘U’ make it official

he halls of the Lower School may seem like an odd place for a wedding, but not when it is double-letter nuptials. In a celebration of their togetherness, ‘Q’ and ‘U’ made it official in a ceremony attended by Jr. K students. Kindergarten Assistant Clare Markos, named Queen for the day, officiated. The event was the culmination of the students’ learning about the letters ‘Q’ and ‘U.’ They learned that the letter ‘U’ almost always, in the English language, stands by ‘Q’ in many words that begin with ‘Q,’ like Queen. Students dressed in their best wedding attire to watch as each classroom’s ‘U’ bride and ‘Q’ groom marched down the aisle to wedding music. ‘Q’ and ‘U’ took their vow to combine for a lifetime of working together to make words and to form one sound — “kw.” Afterwards, the wedding party and guests headed for the reception to celebrate the nuptials with punch, wedding cookies, and Little Debbie cakes.

Kindergarten Assistant Clare Markos marries Ella Hall Eldridge and Drew English, the ‘U’ and ‘Q’ of Vicki Wilson’s classroom, while Gage Dement and Caroline White from Hailey Eldridge’s classroom prepare to walk down the aisle. 5

Lower School P.E. focuses on movement, fun

SJ’s youngest students love to hop, skip, and jump. They also like dancing and walking like an animal. Too young for organized team sports, the children find imaginative, creative play waiting for them in their physical education class. “They come in excited every day,” said Jenny Pritchett, who teaches P.E. for Jr. Cubs through first grade. Her class combines age-appropriate fine and gross motor skills, games, and sports with social skills. Her curriculum meets state education standards, but, at USJ, she has the freedom to implement different tools to keep children as young as 2 years old interested in moving around. She can organize her lesson plans based on what’s most beneficial to the students in her classes, not the pre-planned units of study most curriculums offer. “Since we are a private school, we have a special opportunity to go beAt top of page, Jr. Cubs are all ears when Miss Jenny talks. Above, Jenny Pritchett yond and be more helps Kyryn Hall develop balancing skills. creative,” she said. 6

Pritchett incorporates lessons focused on the motor capabilities of her students. Jr. Cubs, Cubs, and Jr. Kindergarten students practice rhythm exercises, such as dancing, or they learn to skip and jump with two feet. The key is keeping them attentive. “It’s very, very simplified,” Pritchett said. “A lot of what we do ends up being a byproduct of play.” She also develops a cross-curriculum plan for students that reinforces what they’re learning in the classroom. For example, when Cubs are working on numbers, Pritchett’s lesson will have them count the number of times they can jump a rope. For older students, she’ll have them count by fives or tens. She’ll also create a game where students have to recognize colors to be successful. “The kids may not even realize that they’re reinforcing classroom concepts because it is disguised as a fun game,” Pritchett said. Students typically get a few minutes to run around and act silly to burn off some excitement at the beginning of the class so they can focus on the lesson, Pritchett said. But they also get a short explanation of the exercise and how it relates to fitness. Kindergartners and first graders are introduced to more advanced team activities, and Pritchett follows USJ’s sports calendar so her students can learn the basics of the games they watch older students play. “It’s amazing what the kids pick up on by watching the sporting events and connecting the fundamental aspects in gym.” But not everything is sports-related. Pritchett’s goal is to promote health and wellness and lay the foundation for her students to develop an interest in physical education. Pritchett, who is in her fifth year at USJ, said she enjoys finding new ways to keep her students engaged while preparing them for a lifetime of physical activity. “To me, it’s the best career in the world — to get to physically see kids accomplish milestones in movement forms and learn to be socially responsible and safe while having fun. I’m always excited. That is one reason I love doing what I do.”

Library is the heart of the Lower School

he Lower School library is a vibrant place where USJ’s youngest students learn to navigate books and enjoy reading. It’s not a quiet place, but rather, it’s a warm, inviting, and colorful place where students can talk and laugh, said Lower School Librarian Stacey Glover. “We have students who love reading, and my main goal in the library is to make it a welcoming place where the kids want to come,” Glover said. “It has to be a fun place.” The library features a stadium-seating-style reading well and a catalog of more than 30,000 titles, including many Reading is the natural activity of choice in the library’s reading well. new books from popular genres. help keep the students interested and engaged. “With emerging readers, it’s so vital to provide materials of inThe library receives $3,000 each year from the Mothers’ terest, and our library does a great job of doing that,” said Lower Club. The Lower School raises the rest of the money the library School Director Debbie Ford. Students spend 30 minutes each week in the library, learning to needs through book fairs, the Box Tops for Education Program, and donations. locate books and reading age-appropriate literature designed to Glover, who has been with USJ since 2003, credits the 15-20 pique their interests and engage them early. “Even our youngest volunteers who help run the library — stocking shelves, cataloging students learn the difference between fiction and nonfiction and how to locate them in the library,” Glover said. “It teaches them in- books, and helping children — on a weekly basis. The library and its collection are available to many people, thanks to the dedication dependence.” Open library every day gives students another 90 minutes to use of others, Glover said. Thanks to Glover’s work, and because students love it so much, the library. the library is the heart of The library supports the school’s accelerated reader program and summer reading program, Ford said. And, Glover’s curriculum the Lower School campus, Ford said. “It’s a teaches the young students how to navigate the Dewey Decimal System while supporting the curriculum in the classroom. “She is a wonderful place.” teacher first, and that is really vital,” Ford said. The library also hosts special events, such as story time, guest speakers, and visits from authors. The space is accessible to parents, teachers, and faculty, and it’s open during the summer every Wednesday in June and July. “The library stays open and available to USJ families for 12 months a year,” Glover said. Looking to the future, Glover said the school is considering Kindles for the stuAt left, Autumn Hanna looks for a dents, which would allow them to check book to check out, while Marshal out e-books and prevent the library from Brewington, above, relaxes in the library’s colorful rocker. running out of certain titles. It also would

‘Oui! Oui!’ French program attracts more students

SJ’s French program is getting stronger, riding a wave of increased student interest with new opportunities to immerse themselves in the language. More students are choosing French, said Upper School French Curriculum Leader Kemmie Mitzell. “We have been able to double student enrollment in really only a year and a half.” And more students are coming. Middle School French teacher Spencer Connatser said he’s seen his classes swell, and more sixthgrade students are indicating that they want to continue studying the language in seventh grade. “It seems like the number will be getting higher for next year as well,” he said. USJ students are introduced to French in second grade with Lower School French teacher Paul Conway, and they continue to study the language through fifth grade. They also take the language for nine weeks in sixth grade. They must choose between French and Spanish for their foreign language requirements in Middle School and Upper School. Connatser said students are increasingly aware of the prevalence of French culture in the world and understand the usefulness of learning the language. Mitzell agreed, and she added that the growing connectivity between cultures throughout the world underscores the importance of learning another language. “I think it is imperative to know at least one foreign language,” Mitzell said. “It is a huge part of the holistic education of a young person. Things aren’t the way they used to be. We are Continued next page …

‘Making French fun’

Spencer Connatser is happy to be teaching French at USJ.

iddle School French teacher Spencer Connatser has a philosophy about teaching: If students can’t enjoy a subject, they won’t learn it. “I try to focus on making French fun,” Connatser said. “So far it seems to be working out well, and students are responding to it well. They seem very enthusiastic and eager to learn.” Connatser is part of a growing French program at USJ. More students are choosing the subject, and as the Middle School French teacher, he is the first to see the growth. His seventh-grade classes have more students than last year, and he expects that trend to continue. “French is a very widely spoken language, and people are starting to realize more and more that French is useful,” he said. Connatser is finishing his first year as a teacher at USJ and is optimistic about the French program’s continued success. His students are engaged in class and frequently ask questions about the language and culture, he said. “They can’t get enough.” His time so far at USJ has been amazing, he said, and he couldn’t be happier. “All the faculty and staff are very encouraging and helpful. The students are fantastic, and the parents are supportive.”

Upper School French teacher Kemmie Mitzell teaches Govind Bindra, Olivia Baker, and Kelsey Ross in her AP French class.

SAT preparation helps remove nervousness

“It’s a very casual setting,” ach year, more than half of Burnette said. She handles the the USJ seventh-grade class writing and verbal part of the SAT, gathers at Union University while Upper School Math Teacher on a Saturday morning in January Carla Roach teaches strategies or February to take the SAT or about tackling the math part. “We ACT college entrance exam. They’ll talk to them about general guidesit alongside high school juniors lines and test-taking strategies. We and seniors who are getting ready encourage them to do their best to enter college. and teach them what to expect.” The seventh graders, though, With the SAT, for example, are taking the SAT and ACT there’s no penalty for leaving a through the Duke Talent Identificaquestion blank. Students will lose tion Program. Instead of college acone-fourth of a point, however, if ceptances and scholarships at stake, the answer is wrong, but they the younger students are competing should make an educated guess if with other Duke-recognized stuthey have narrowed their answer dents across the country. Those to two possibilities. doing exceptionally well on the test They learn to always read the will be invited to attend summer text first and then try to answer programs and will be earmarked by the question, rather than reading many colleges as good prospects. the question first and trying to “It’s a wonderful opportunity,” find the answer in the text. They said Courtney Burnette, USJ MidUpper School Math Teacher Carla Roach teaches seventh graders also learn that it’s okay to write in dle School Director. the margins of the SAT and that strategies for the math section of the SAT. Duke University invites stuquestions on the test get harder the further they go in a section. dents who scored in the 95th percentile on identified subtests on “It’s a fun, laid-back morning designed to take the edge off the their ERBs, which they took in the fall during sixth grade, or a 125 test,” Burnette said. “We want them to be calm and not nervous,” or higher on the Otis Lennon School Ability test. Each year, about a week or two before the January SAT, the sev- she said. “Taking the SAT isn’t going to hurt them. This is for the experience. They’ve already achieved something great just because enth graders gather on another Saturday morning to learn about they have qualified for the Duke program.” the test.

French program attracts more students

Continued from previous page …

living in a more and more global world.” Two main reasons more students are taking French are new approaches in the classroom and new opportunities to study abroad, Mitzell and Connatser say. As French teachers, they are doing more to engage students. A new program modeled after the Spanish students’ immersion trips to Costa Rica will send 11 students on a three-week immersion experience in France this summer. They will spend four days in Paris touring the city and then travel by train to Biarritz on the southern coast near Spain. Once there, they will live with host families, attend classes every day, and visit nearby attractions. Mitzell said it’s an excellent opportunity for

personal growth, as well as an authentic French environment that will build their confidence in the language. “The fastest and most efficient way to learn a language is to be immersed in it,” Mitzell said. She wants to repeat the immersion trip every other year. Mitzell, who is in her second year at USJ, also tries to give her students a sense of immersion in her classroom. She never speaks English. First- and second-year students can ask questions in English. The more advanced students are discouraged from speaking English at all. Students in her class learn more than just a new language, she said. “They learn about a whole other culture and point of view.”

These three seniors represent the

Lindsay Smith wants to work at St. Jude

n a few years, Lindsay Smith wants to be helping children at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis. She wants to focus on child life and family studies in college, and her choices are Samford University, Auburn University, Rhodes College, or Mississippi State. After college, she wants to work at one of the best hospital facilities in the country. “I know I want to be at St. Jude one day and be a child life specialist,” Lindsay said. Her USJ education, she said, and the opportunities that go along with it, have prepared her for what lies ahead. Lindsay is chaplain of the Student Government Association, president of the Key Club, treasurer of the National English Honor Society, historian of Tri-M Music Honor Society, and a junior Rotarian. “I stay busy a lot, and I like it that way,”

Lindsay said. “I love being involved, and that’s one of the reasons I love USJ, because we have the opportunity to take part in so many things.” Lindsay also was a varsity cheerleader for four years, a member of All-State and All-Northwest Honor choirs, and participated in several USJ plays. Besides the extra-curricular opportunities, she said USJ has a challenging curriculum and supportive teachers who help students succeed. “They really go above and beyond to do anything to help with whatever we need. They’ve prepared us for everything that we’ll face.” Smith joined USJ in fifth grade. As her senior year comes to a close, she said she ap-

Lindsay Smith preciates the support she’s received from the USJ community. “It is like a family.” And now, she’s looking forward to graduation. “It really is a ceremony and an event,” Smith said. “It’s not just something to check off the list.”

Hannah Aherrera: ‘USJ is the best school I could have attended’

s Hannah Aherrera graduates from USJ this spring, she will leave with an impressive resume and the knowledge that she is prepared for college. “USJ is the best school I could have attended,” said Hannah, who started at USJ in kindergarten. “I really think it has prepared me for college, and I think college will be a lot easier as opposed to if I had gone to another school.” She has been busy. Hannah is president of International Club, vice president of Spanish Honor Society, secretary of National English Honor Society, treasurer of National Honor Society, secretary of Chemistry Club, treasurer of Social Science Honor Society, chaplain of Science National Honor Society, and chaplain of Mu Alpha Theta. She also is a five-year member of the All-Northwest Honor Choir, including three years as a student accompanist, and she was accepted

into the All-State Honor Choir in 2012 and 2013. Hannah was chosen as a delegate to Girls State in 2012 and was one of eight students accepted into Governor’s School for the Arts in piano. A tennis standout, she is a four-year member of the varsity team. For her efforts, she was voted Most Talented by her peers. With her time at USJ running out, she said she’s looking forward to her last high school tennis season, as well as prom and graduation. Headed for St. Louis University, Hannah will major in biology for pre-med and double minor in music and Spanish. She enjoyed the trip to Costa Rica that was organized by the Spanish program in 2012, and she wants to continue studying the language. “I really want to be fluent,” she said. Hannah Aherrera

advantages of a USJ education

James Roland Markos selected to attend prestigious Senate Youth Program

once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in March took James Roland Markos to Washington as one of two students selected to represent Tennessee as a delegate in the competitive and merit-based U.S. Senate Youth Program. Students attended meetings with President Barack Obama, senators and congressional staff, leaders of cabinet agencies and other dignitaries, and top members of the national media. They also toured several museums and stayed at the historic Mayflower Hotel. They each received a $5,000 undergraduate scholarship from The Hearst Foundation, which funds the Senate Youth Program and encourages delegates to pursue coursework in government, history, and public affairs. James Roland was ecstatic when he learned he had been selected. Career-wise, he said, the Senate Youth Program was the most influential thing he could do. “It’s a great opportunity for me to experience how our government works first hand.” Among his USJ and community activities, James Roland serves as USJ’s senior class secretary, president of Mu Alpha

Theta, vice president of National English Honor Society, secretary of Spanish National Honor Society, and treasurer of the Science National Honor Society. He is a member of Tennessee Leaders of Tomorrow. He is the Leadership University class speaker, and he received the Sewanee Writing Award. He also has attended engineering programs at the University of Texas and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. A good tennis player, James Roland is looking forward to his final spring season at USJ. His extracurricular activities keep him busy. “It’s been tough, but I want to be involved in a lot of different areas to have as big an impact as I can,” he said. He is building an impressive resume, and he credits USJ for what he has accomplished. “USJ presents so many opportunities on so many different levels to create a well-rounded individual.” The faculty sets USJ apart from other

James Roland Markos

schools, he said. “The teachers really work with you to make sure you understand all the concepts. And it doesn’t stop in the classroom. They care about you outside the classroom.” He hasn’t picked a college, but he knows he wants to major in biomedical engineering and minor in political science. And right now, he is focused on his remaining time as a senior at USJ. “I’m looking forward to finishing strong,” James Roland said. “I want to be able to say I’ve finished everything to the best of my ability.”

Brick program honors legacies

igh school graduation is a huge milestone in life, and some USJ families commemorate the legacy of their children with honorary bricks. Placed in the walkway at the front entrance of the Upper School, the bricks are engraved with a personal message and selected design to mark students’ time at USJ. The program launched in 2005, and the number of bricks in the walkway is approaching 200. Besides graduating seniors, the bricks can honor special teachers, friends, and loved ones, said Emily

Richards, USJ’s Director of Development. “You can honor or memorialize a special person and create a permanent remembrance on the campus of USJ,” Richards said. “It’s a great way to be a part of the school forever.” The 4-inch by 8-inch bricks are $100, and the money goes to the school’s general fund. The bricks also come with a small replica, which can be used as a keepsake or paperweight. The bricks can be ordered through USJ’s website or by emailing Richards at erichards@usjbruins.org.

At USJ, it’s all

When alumni parents were asked if their children at USJ could be in a photograph, about 150 children showed up. They are pictured, above. On the cover: Alumni children pictured are front row, from left, Margaret Jones, Cameron Tinker, Marimac Ellis, Ely Mandle, and Mattie Boyd; and back row, Mary Catherine Campbell, Owen Stonecipher, Abe Stonecipher, and Lilly Kate Varino.

or many, USJ is a family school. Scores of students are children of alumni — parents who chose USJ because they know the quality of education available. Fourth grader Braden Sallee and his sister, Ella, who is a Jr. Cub, are USJ students because their mom wants what’s best for them. Deidre Sallee, Class of 1996, said she knew from experience that her children could excel at

about family!

USJ, and she could see results within the first year. “It’s amazing the difference,” Sallee said. “To know that my child is in a safe environment and learning is the most important thing to me.” For Abbie Crocker Allen, Class of 1998, the decision to send her children to USJ also was easy. “Cubs and Jr. Cubs was the best thing in town for them,” Allen said. She had a great experience as a student at USJ, she said. She

feels comfortable with the teachers, and her children love it. Her daughter, Edie, is now in Kindergarten, and her son, William, is in Cubs. “He has flourished, and it is amazing what they’re learning at such a young age,” Allen said. Allen plans to keep her children in USJ as they grow up, and she’s looking forward to one day enrolling her 2-year-old daughter, Garland, in USJ, too.

Students get a visual approach to learning

Kay Thomson, Grades 2-5 Art Teacher, explains how to make a castle out of clay.

ay Thomson’s Lower School students do more than draw in her art classes. They learn life skills and how to create projects, and they learn about art history. They also learn new depths about the subjects in their other classes through a cross curriculum that teaches with visual cues. Thomson, who teaches second through fifth grades, reinforces what students are learning in other classrooms by focusing on relevant art projects, depending on the various cultures they study. Recently, for example, fourth graders created castles to accompany the annual Medieval Feast. “It broadens not only the classroom experience, but the art experience,” she said. At USJ, Thomson is free to apply a cross curriculum program in addition to meeting state education standards. She said it helps her students learn more about the subjects they study because it’s a different approach to the materials. “The art lesson is such a different environment than the classroom,” Thomson said. “It’s a visual experience.” When they’re finished, students showcase their work on one of five bulletin boards 14

that are changed throughout the year. It’s something that makes the students proud. Other Lower School teachers are supportive of her approach, Thomson said. She also receives encouragement from the administration, as well as from parents. “I really appreciate the parents being supportive,” Thomson said. It’s her job, she explained, to teach children to solve problems and create a love for work, and her students are eager to meet the challenge. “USJ has a wonderful, creative, and diverse student body. They’re just really creative and enthusiastic kids who are easy to teach.” Making castles out of clay are fifth graders Chidera Nwokolo, left, and Gabrielle Berry, below. At bottom left, fourth graders Emma Richards, Sarah Beth Brauss, and Savannah Spencer make pinwheels.

After-school program helps students, parents

has helped her son academically and socially, and it’s given her arents of Middle School students are taking advantage of peace of mind to know that he’s in a safe place. USJ’s new option for after-school care. The students are, “They still need to be in that environment where you as a partoo. This year, USJ expanded its Lower School after-school program ent are not worried about their safety,” Kitson said. “It’s a wonderful option for children not in an extra-curricular activity.” to offer a similar option for Middle and Upper School families. The program is $100 per month, and students can stay until Students now have a safe place on campus to finish homework 5:30 p.m. Students meet in the cafeteria and get a snack and water while their parents finish their day at work. while they wait for their parents. Students are supervised by teach“We had a great number of parents who needed their students ers Anna Powell and Kemmie to have that time after school Mitzell. like they did in Lower It’s a great opportunity for School,” said Middle School students to get a head start on Director Courtney Burnette. their homework, Mitzell said. “It’s really proved to be a “I think it’s hugely advantaservice that I think was more geous. They have two hours needed than we originally in the day to get everything thought. Parents have been done that they need. They very receptive.” help themselves, and they One of those parents is help each other.” Dr. Michelle Kitson, whose Parents also don’t have to son, Barrington Stanford, is worry about their children in in sixth grade. This is his first the afternoon, Burnette said. year at USJ, and Kitson said “It’s a good opportunity for the program allowed her son Middle School students tackle their homework during the new after-school pro- parents to know that their to benefit from having time to do homework while bond- gram. They are sitting at a cafeteria table purchased by the Class of 2012. (See kids are well taken care of after school.” story, below.) Seated around the table, from left, are Gracie Wagner, Sophie ing with students in a new

environment. The program

Mehdian, Nathan Wall, Bijon Etghayi, and Zachary West.

What do you do with leftover class money? Buy a few cafeteria tables!

hanks to the 2012 senior class, USJ students have a set of brand-new tables they’ll use every day for lunch. The class had $8,000 remaining from its fundraising efforts, and after considering various options, students decided to assist, with matching school funds, in replacing the aging tables in the cafeteria. “We really felt that it would have a big impact on the school day,” said Thomas Butler, a 2012 class officer. The old tables had missing seats and were in a bad condition. They didn’t present a very good image, Thomas said. At first, students were unsure if they

would be able to outfit the entire cafeteria. They worked with Facilities Director Jim Hardegree, who identified a seller and negotiated the best price for 24 tables. Thomas, who is at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, said the officers want to thank all of the parents from the class of 2012, who made the project possible. The class was thrilled, he said, to be able to contribute something that was needed and can be used by students for years to come. “It really was an honor for us to be able to make a contribution to USJ in that way,” Butler said.

Class of 2008 leaves a legacy

he Class of 2008 has donated money to be used for future scholarships for USJ students. The money will fund a $500 scholarship each year for five years. Class members hope that future donations will be made to continue past the five-year commitment. The scholarships will be chosen by the USJ faculty on behalf of the Class of 2008. Contact Director of Development Emily Richards at erichards@usjbruins.org to donate to the project.

Cheerleaders earn national recognition

SJ’s cheerleaders have made a name for themselves. In recent years, the program has transformed into a national powerhouse, placing high among the best teams in the country in yearly competitions. When it’s time for their routine, cheerleaders from other schools take notice, Coach Adair Hardegree said. “Other squads know who they are. They have definitely moved up the ladder quickly.” In February, the team traveled to Orlando and placed in the top ten at the National High School Cheerleading Championship, the sport’s most prestigious event. The competition, which was televised on ESPN, featured 10,000 athUSJ cheerleaders were among the top 10 squads at the National High School Cheerleading Champiletes on 531 teams in more than onship in Orlando, Florida. At lower right, Senior Margaret Jones holds up a “B” during the competition. For more pictures from the competition, go to the Upper School 25 divisions. USJ competed against 40 different squads to ad- cheerleading page in the Athletics Section of usjbruins.org. The girls also challenge themselves to succeed, vance from the preliminaries to the semifinals and Farmer said. At nationals, only 16 members of then the finals, beating elite programs from across the their team of 22 can compete, and they have to country along the way. The team advanced to the finals in 2012 as well. It’s a earn their spots, Farmer said. “It’s competitive. They could be on the floor one day and off the floor the great achievement, but not surprising, said Coach Robert Farmer. “It’s expected based on the work ethic of next.” Carrie Brown Smith Campbell, USJ Director of the girls,” Farmer said. “I feel like we’ve become a perAlumni Relations and Class of 2007 graduate, was on manent finals team. I expect to make finals pretty much the early squads under Hardegree and Farmer. The every year now.” coaches joined the program during her junior year, Farmer and Hardegree took over the program in and the team went to its first nationals competition 2005. They coach Upper School and Middle School, and they recently opened her senior year. “They The squad will be recognized in April as the top the younger team to sixth transformed our profund-raising cheerleading team in the country for graders. The Middle gram,” she said. “Each year, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in an event School girls learn the funsponsored by Varsity. The girls will have the oppor- the team gets better.” damentals and continue Hardegree said the tunity to visit the hospital to meet patients and their developing them through early squads also families before attending a dinner in their honor. Upper School, and Hardehelped transform gree said the extra year in sixth grade should strengthen the program into the powerhouse it is today, the program even further. and subsequent teams have been eager to “It does make a better cheerleader,” Hardegree said. continue that success. “The previous squads “The Middle School girls begin to learn a lot of the eleset the bar, and these girls have been willments that are important. I think that has been a key.” ing to reach up and grab it.” 16

Marillyn Boggs:

USJ’s No. 1 fan

or 23 years, Middle School English teacher Marillyn Boggs has watched USJ athletes belt game-winning home runs, scramble for extra yards, and sink three pointers to take the lead in overtime. Fans know her well, including supporters of visiting teams, because she works the admissions gate for every home game in every sport. And sometimes, particularly in the spring, that means she’s watching two or three games a night, every night of the week. “It’s amazing what can go on here in one night,” Boggs said. Boggs said she enjoys being able to keep track of USJ’s students as they leave her Middle School classroom and progress through school. “It gives me an opportunity to watch them grow up and perform,” she said. Through her work behind the gate, she’s met countless parents and made friends with USJ families. She’s also made friends with players and families from opposing schools who marvel at the quality of USJ’s facilities, she said. Boggs added that she would rather be at the gate than anywhere else when one of the school’s many teams suits up for a game. She

If it’s a USJ home athletic event, Marillyn Boggs, above right, is at the admissions gate handing out programs and collecting ticket money. loves sports, USJ, and welcoming people to the school. She has watched students excel on the field, cheering them on through tough losses and challenging wins. A few of those wins, she said, stand out more than others. She remembers Preston and Jake Overbey hitting back-to-back home runs to come from behind and beat a rival school in 2010. She remembers the football team beating that same school 69-0 in 2004. She also remembers the close win for the football team in the 2011 state quarterfinal. Throughout the years, there have been many great games at USJ, and she loves being a part of them all. “I’ve been blessed to be able to do it,” Boggs said. “I feel like I’m the fortunate one.”

Cross country Bruins finish runners-up to state title

y the time the 2012 Division II-A state cross country meet was over, the boys team knew they did something no USJ team before them had ever done – they won second place in the state championship race. “I knew we were going to finish in the top 3; the question was whether it was second or third,” said Coach Chris Winter. The girls team also finished strong, taking third place at the meet. Three of USJ’s runners — Kayla Puzdrakiewicz, third; Samantha Sullivan, eighth; and Jessica Garland, 14th — finished in the top 15 and made the All-State team. “For the girls to come to this race and perform the way they did after the up-and-

down season they had just makes me so proud of them,” Winter said. “We were hampered by injuries and sickness all season and to see everything come together for them at the most important meet of the season is extremely satisfying.” The boys ran their best team race of the year. Sam Darnall finished fifth, Jack Goodwas sixth, Patrick Richardson 10th, Govind Bindra 19th, Chris Burton 31st, Charles

Woodside 33rd, and Jourdan Redden 36th. The boys won several meets last fall, including the TCA Invite, Alabama Crimson Classic, and regionals. Second place at the state meet, however, was more rewarding than any of those victories, Winter said. “What the team did is a testament to their consistent hard work in the off season. We had a fun year, and it is great to see their hard work pay off.” The boys cross country team stands atop the podium with a runner-up trophy at the state meet.

Achievements …

(Noted achievements announced since the printing of the September 2012 school magazine)

Symphony’s Color of Music says ‘bravo’ USJ

indergarten student Chloe Hatcher won the “Bravo” Award, the highest honor a student can be given in the Jackson Symphony League’s Color of Music contest. More than 9,000 entries were submitted from public, independent, and homeschooled students. Chloe’s painting was inspired by Waltz from Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty. USJ had several other winning entries in the annual art contest. Earning blue ribbons were Edie Allen, kindergarten; Brooke Phillipps, sixth grade; Trevor Chloe Hatcher Spencer and Harrison Hamm, seventh grade; and eighth grader Sarah Carraher. Sixth graders Bailee Norris and Shereen Haji received Honorable Mention awards. Middle School Art Teacher Anna McPeaks won an award for having the highest percentage of winners in the sixth- to eighthgrade division. She was allowed to enter nine pieces, and six of those earned awards.

USJ excels at Mid-South Art Competition

SJ students earned top honors at the prestigious Mid-South Art Competition — a juried exhibition with 1,734 individual works of art and 122 portfolios. Emily Mitchell received a Gold Key and the American Visions Award, which came with a special cash prize. Kim Ballard won a Gold Key, a Silver Key, and an honorable mention. Also earning Silver Keys were Callie Cantrell, Sarah Mantooth, and Hannah Woodward. Selena Bright, Riley Koerner, Alannah Yellen, Todd Moon, and Dana Viveros won honorable mentions. The Gold and Silver Key winners had their work displayed at the Memphis Brooks Museum for a month.

From left, Philip Griggs, John Villarreal, and Akua Nuako.

National Merit Foundation honors seniors

he National Merit Foundation has recognized three students from the University School of Jackson’s Class of 2013. They are Akua Nuako, a semifinalist for the National Merit Scholarship Competition and National Achievement Scholarship Competition; John Villarreal, who was honored as a National Merit Commended Student and in the National Hispanic Recognition Program; and Philip Griggs, who was a National Achievement Program Outstanding Participant. Akua, a USJ student for five years, is the daughter of Kofi Nuako and Joyce Addo. She hasn’t chosen a college yet, but plans to major in biomedical engineering. John plans to attend Union University and study engineering. A USJ student since pre-kindergarten, he is the son of David and Kim Villarreal. Philip is the son of Rickey and Yolanda Griggs. He has not chosen a college yet, but plans to major in biology or pre-med. He has been a USJ student for four years.

Soccer players to train with state’s best

our USJ students were named to the Tennessee Soccer Olympic Development Program. After final regional games in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Charles Campbell and Melic Belong were selected to the 99 and 00 teams, respectively. Jack Edwards was named an alternate. After the girls soccer regional finals in Gainesville, Georgia, Sarah Pierce and Shelby Williams were named to the 96 team. Charles, Melic, and Jack also were selected to the Tennessee state training pool for the 13-year-old age group. This is the training group for future Olympians and World Cup players. All of the athletes are members of the Jackson Wolves and play on USJ’s soccer teams.

All-State Honors

SJ choral students selected to the 2013 Tennessee All-State Choir are, front center, Hannah Aherrera; first row, left to right, Ryan Sanderson, Sierra Glosson, Marisa Mariencheck, and Kacee Russell; and second row, Angelica Marks, Chris Weiner, Austin Orr, John Villarreal, and Meredith Maroney.

All-Northwest Junior High Honor Choir

hen the All-Northwest Junior High Honor Choir performed its regional concert last fall, USJ was well represented. After auditioning, 39 Middle School students and ninth graders were selected to the honor choir … 1st Soprano: Caroline Miller, Molly Maroney, Kate Petrinjak, Payton Jett, and Maggie Exum. 2nd Soprano: Summer Basham, Addison Dunn, Ashlee Dunn, Caroline Sammons, and Kallie Pickens. 1st Alto: Allison Banks, Amanda Cooper, and Sydney Kwasigroh. Undefeated season 2nd Alto: Clara Mariencheck (first The Middle School Girls Basketball team ended its season undefeated, with a 20-0 record. The chair), Molly Morris (second chair), girls won both the Blue Streak Invitational Tournament in December and the James C. Haile Brylee Whitsitt, and Riley Koerner. State Tournament in early February. Members of the team, front row, from left, are Regan SulTenor: Tyler Bruno (first chair), John Giampapa (fourth chair), Ethan Baskin, livan, Sydney Kilburn, Spencer Hancock, Anna Katherine Horn, Morgan Williams, Kallie Evan Griggs, Alec Taylor, Shea Byrum, Pickens, and Rachel Davis; and standing, Abbey Fleming, Sydney Kwasigroh, Sarah Hensley, Alexander Peftoulidis, Amir Kaveh, and Taylor Tenpenny, Anna Jones, Ashton Hulme, Lillie Homberg, Caitlyn Brown, Amelia Spurlin, and Coach Jenny Pritchett. Not pictured is Zaina Dardas. Seth Weiss. Bass: Elijah Moore (first chair), Gray Mr. Football Bigford, Aaron Evans, Parker Lewis, Jude Anderson, Gray Northern, Holland Hawks, Joshua Tabor, Paul Markos, Seth enior Chase Hensley was named the Rohlwing, Jordan Fesmire, Michael Villarreal, and Brian Bada. Division II A Mr. Football Lineman of the Year after leading the Bruins to a 10-0 record and their All-Northwest Tennessee Honor Choir second straight division chamhirty USJ students were chosen for the All-Northwest Tenpionship. He also was one of nessee Honor Choir. After auditions, those selected were … three finalists for the award Soprano: Angelica Marks, Sierra Glosson, Kacee Russell, Marisa in 2011. Mariencheck, Hannah Aherrera, Meredith Maroney, Sydney Paris, Senior Powers Spencer Rachel Giampapa, Nicole Sioson, and Hannah Russell. was a finalist for the 2012 Alto: Darby Douglas, Lindsay Smith, Sally Sikes, and Claire Division II A Mr. Football Jaggers. Back of the Year. Tenor: Peyton Vaughan, Chris Burton, Ryan Sanderson, Connor Simmons, Christophe Nabhan, and Gram Northern. West Tennessee Regional Choral Festival Bass: Chris Weiner, Austin Orr, Adam Sills, Jordan Boyd, he USJ Concert Choir and the USJ Women’s Choir, under Lance McGee, John Villarreal, Walker Teer, Hunter Ross, and the direction of Dian Eddleman, won Sweepstakes Awards Philip Griggs. in the West Tennessee Regional Choral Festival. Sweepstakes Accompanist: Hannah Aherrera. Awards are awarded to choirs receiving a superior rating in performance and sight singing in every category and by each adjudiRegional Art Competition cator. The two choirs now qualify for the state choral festival everal students from USJ were recognized at the 5th Annual April 26 in Knoxville. West Tennessee Regional Student Art Exhibition. Cameron Briley won a ninth-grade honorable mention; Mattie Boyd had two pieces accepted and won an honorable mention in sculpture, and Alan Wilms won second place for photography. Lauren Randolph, Katie Robertson, Samantha Sullivan, Jacob Denbrock, Catherine Adkins, Hannah Woodward, and Austin Wilms also had work accepted into the competition.

For the latest news from USJ, visit … usjbruins.org

Committed parents run PAL basketball league

arol and Brad Adkins are passionate about basketball — specifically, Lower School basketball. The USJ parents devote countless hours to organize and run the PAL basketball program, which includes kindergarten through fourth-grade students from USJ, Trinity Christian Academy, Medina, Jackson Christian School, and St. Mary’s. Altogether, the league equips 75 teams with more than 700 kids. “That’s a lot of kids,” Carol Adkins said. USJ fields 35 to 40 teams for boys and girls. Each team has eight to 10 children. On Saturday mornings during basketball season, you’re likely to run into Brad and Carol Adkins PAL, which stands for Parochial at USJ’s gyms, making sure the PAL basketball games go smoothly. Athletic League, teaches students the grade – have all gone through the league on various USJ teams. basics of the game and helps them develop their skills to be able The league was founded more than 30 years ago by Calvin to play basketball at the next level, Adkins said. Even for the Bailey of Medina, Jack Rhodes of St. Mary’s, and Alan Sallee Sr. youngest teams, referees are instructed to call violations and of USJ. At one point, PAL basketball had grown to more than make sure the rules are followed. 100 teams and 900 children when fifth and sixth graders were “We are seeing the trend of players choosing more competitive basketball at a younger age,” she said. “We really stress to the involved. A travel league was recently formed for the older students, which offers more competitive play around the region. coaches that this is a fundamental league.” Adkins said that watching PAL’s children learn to play is fun, Their work starts each year in September with planning, and and it’s satisfying to follow the young athletes as they develop they hold a draft in November to assign children to teams. The through the years when they play in Middle School and Upper season begins in January and runs through February. And the Adkins family, with the help of some dedicated volunteers, man- School. But it’s also fun to watch the referees, who are high school students, mature throughout the season, she said. ages it all – from making sure teams are assigned and scheduling “They are teachers of the game on the court. They learn to games to hiring referees and coordinating with volunteers. resolve conflicts and keep emotions under control, and the expeGames are played each Saturday at USJ, Trinity, and St. rience builds their confidence. They work very hard and very Mary’s, depending on the grade level. The Adkins family is also responsible for ensuring the facilities are opened and cleaned and long days. It’s great to provide an opportunity for students to work and assume responsibility in their set up for practices and games. role.” Each participating school has its own basketball director to For Brad and Carol Adkins, however, the manage its teams, and the Adkins family receives help through a primary reason they continue to volunteer is hired cleaning service and school administrators who unlock fafor the sheer love of the game. cilities when needed. “We love the organization so much and see The parents have been involved with PAL for about 12 years the need for emphasis on teaching fundamentals and managed it for 10 years. Their children – Conner, 12th grade; and development of basketball skills,” Adkins said. Jonathan, 10th grade; Catherine, eighth grade; and Jacob, sixth

Alumni News 1990-1999

w We extend our sympathy to the family of Mark Lashlee, Class of 1994. Mark died November 5 at his home in Humboldt of complications from a traumatic brain injury that occurred after a car accident in November 1993. He is survived by his parents, T.O. and Carol Lashlee; his sister, Shannon Lashlee Randolph; his brother, Thomas Lashlee; and other family members. w James Kirkland, Class of 1994, and his wife, Misty, welcomed their second daughter, Caroline Ayers, on January 27. Caroline’s big sister, Addy, is a Cub at USJ. The family lives in Jackson. w Jennifer Worley Tindal, Class of 1994, is controller at Mechanical Systems & Services Inc. in Rock Hill, South Carolina. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from North Carolina State University and a Master of Accountancy from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Jennifer is married to Thomas Tindal Jr. Their children are Jessica, 7; Katelyn, 12; and Joshua, 6. (jentindal@aol.com) w Michael Reed, Class of 1996, joined Reed & Associates Inc. as partner in February 2013. Reed & Associates is a creative marketing firm with a full range of services. Its offices are in Jackson and Charlotte, North Carolina. Michael and his wife, Clarissa, have a 2-year-old son, Max, and are the guardians of Niko, 15, and Mylea, 21. They live in Charlotte. (mike@reedmarketing.com) w Frances Kirkland Lawhead, Class of 1998, and her husband, Jake, have a new baby girl. Iris Michael Lawhead was born September 25. She has an older sister, Sadie Glasgow Lawhead. w Rob Byrd, Class of 1999, and his wife, Clair, welcomed their second child, Fletcher Knight Byrd, on May 21. Big brother, Will, is a year older. Rob is a CPA with Crowe Horwath in Brentwood. Clair is a homemaker. They live in Franklin. Fletcher Knight 2000-2009

w Dave Price, Class of 2000, and his wife, Mary, have a new baby girl. Liddy Gail was born on February 6, 2012. Dave earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at Tennessee Technological University. He is equipment manager at McHale & Associates Inc. in Knoxville. (dave.wesley.price@gmail.com) w Brennan Berg, Class of 2000, is an assistant professor with the University of Memphis. Brennan earned Liddy Gail a bachelor’s degree in political science in 2005 and a master’s degree in sport and leisure commerce in 2007 from the University of Memphis. He earned his doctorate in

Dear Fellow Alumni, As my first year as USJ’s Director of Alumni Relations comes to a close, I am so excited about our Alumni Program and about the upcoming year. We had a successful 1st Annual Homecoming Weekend event, filled with golf, food, fashion, and fun! We look forward to our 2nd Annual Homecoming Weekend and have more events for the year in the works. We are working hard to increase our alumni base, and we are so proud to have your support and involvement. As we plan events, we would love to have your ideas and your help. Please let me know if there are ways that you would like to get involved. I would love nothing more than to see you all back here at USJ! Enclosed with this magazine is a postcard requesting your email address and any changes to your mailing address. Do take the time to fill it out so that we can stay connected. Thank you again for your support! Carrie Brown Smith Campbell ’07 Director of Alumni Relations sport management from the University of Texas at Austin in 2012. He lives in Cordova. (bberg@memphis.edu) w Cassie Murchison Dobens, Class of 2001, and her husband, Raymond, welcomed their first child, Charlotte Joy, on March 14, 2012. Cassie attended the University of Mississippi. The family lives in Knoxville. (cassiedobens@gmail.com) w Joe Shearin, Class of 2001, and his wife, Tracy, welcomed their first child, Mack Presley, on October 16. Joe graduated from Mississippi State University in 2005 with a degree in construction management and land development. He recently joined Fisher Construction Company as a residential project manager. The family lives in Jackson. w Rob Young, Class of 2001, is a project engineer at Booth & Associates in Raleigh, North Carolina. The company is Joe Shearin with Mack Presley an engineering consultant for utility companies. Rob is a licensed Professional Engineer and designs high-voltage transmission lines. He earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Tennessee Technological University. He and his wife, Maryalice, have a 5-year-old daughter, Mary Cate. w Bryan Byrd, Class of 2001, and his wife, Laura, welcomed a daughter, Anna Leigh, on December 30. Anna Leigh has a big sister, Lily. Bryan, a graduate of the University of Alabama, works at BancorpSouth in Franklin. Laura is with First Citizen Bank in Cool Springs. They live in Anna Leigh Spring Hill. w John David Sikes, Class of 2002, married Reade Snellings September 22 in Atlanta. John David earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and 21 Continued, page 23

Homecoming: A reunion for all USJ families

SJ’s families celebrated Homecoming Weekend 2012 with a football victory and several activities the next day, including a golf tournament in the morning, a luncheon and fashion show at lunch, and a clambake that night sponsored by the Bruins Club. Homecoming Weekend 2013 will be September 27-28 and once again will have several activities for families. Registration and more details will be on usjbruins.org later this summer.

Clockwise from above: Taylor Walker, Bob Payne, Brent Bledsoe, and Bob Seals enjoy a Saturday morning of golf; Elizabeth and Geri Breeden attend the fashion show; and singer Kaycee Russell performs at the fashion show. USJ beat SBEC the night before in football.

2007 Reunion

The Class of 2007 celebrated its five-year reunion with a Saturday dinner during Homecoming Weekend at Coyote Blues. Alumni present were Matthew Farris, Taylor West, Harrison Hayes, Caroline Yelverton, Landon Kail, Haley King Goodrich, Misty Lewis, Elizabeth McGee Nord, Haley Phillips, Simon Arcuri, Carrie Brown Smith Campbell, Lauren Radicioni, Rachel Young, George Smith, and William Hutchinson.

Kroger Rewards Program can reward USJ, too

ot a Kroger Rewards card? Then make sure you are letting USJ join in on the benefits. Through Kroger’s new program, every time you use your rewards card, USJ can reap the benefit by earning money each quarter. The more you use your card, the more USJ stands to earn. The program kicked off in the fall with a “Rock the Vote” campaign sponsored by the Bruins Club. “We had a great response to the campaign, registering more than 240 cards,” said Deborah Patterson, who heads up the program for the Bruins Club. “But we know there are lots more cards out there that could be linked to help USJ.” The great thing about the program is that no matter where your Kroger is located, you can benefit USJ. This is a great program for alumni, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends living outside of Jackson to have an easy way to give to USJ every time they shop at Kroger, Patterson said. For your purchases to earn money for the Bruins, your card must be registered, and you must identify USJ as the organization you want to benefit. 22

It only takes a few easy steps to register your card … w Log in to krogercommunityrewards.com. w Select the “Create an Account” button at the top of the page. w Complete the email information and password. w Check your email account for an email from Kroger that will contain a link to activate your account. w Activate your account. w You will be asked to complete a form with your name, address, phone number, and Kroger Card number. (If you do not have your card, your alternate ID number is

To encourage families to register with the new Kroger rewards program earlier this year, the Bruins Club held a drawing. Bruins Club President Bill Buckley, at left, and Cindy Whitsett, right, the program’s Middle School coordinator, congratulate Ryan and Molly Roy on being the winners of the grand prize — a trip to Destin.

the phone number you gave when you first received your card. If that doesn’t work, call 800.576.4377 with your phone number to receive your Kroger card number. w Once you have activated your account, return to the Kroger home page and log in under the Community Rewards section at the top of the page. w Input USJ’s NPO number – 80180. w Select USJ as your organization and hit the “Save Selection” button. If you do not have a Kroger card, get one today, register it, and start earning money for USJ.

USJ graduate appointed to State Board of Accountancy

tion skills, he said. “It’s given me the confidence and ability to be ov. Bill Haslam appointed Stephen a leader in my industry.” Eldridge, USJ Class of 1993, to the Eldridge also serves on the Youth Town of Tennessee Board of Tennessee State Board of Accountancy — Directors, Union University’s McAfee a prestigious leadership position in an orSchool of Business ganization that regulates the state’s acAdministration counting industry. Advisory Board, “I am honored that the Governor Youth Life Board would have the confidence in me to do of Directors, First the job,” Eldridge said. “It’s humbling.” Tennessee Bank Eldridge was appointed to a three-year term, which began in 2012. The board meets quarterly and regulates licensing and dis- Advisory Board, and the ciplinary issues among accountants in Tennessee. City of JackEldridge has had a successful career since graduating from son Industrial USJ. A partner at Alexander Thompson Arnold, CPAs, he is acDevelopment tive with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Board. and the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants. He He and his served on the legislative committee of the latter as past president wife, Lolly, have of the West Tennessee chapter. two daughters: He majored in accounting and finance and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Union Univer- Madeline, 5, sity. He is a graduate of Leadership Jackson, a Paul Harris Fellow, and Emily, 2. Both atand a past board member of the Jackson Rotary Club. tend USJ. Eldridge said USJ is a wonderful school that provided him with a quality education and taught him to think analytically and Brothers Stephen and Michael Eldridge, thrive in his industry. It also has a strong English program where both USJ graduates, are sending their children to USJ. The Eldridge he learned important reading comprehension and communicacousins, above, are, from left, Madeline, Garrett, Emily, and Ella Hall. Garrett and Ella Hall are the children of Michael and his wife, Hailey. Madeline and Emily are the daughters of Stephen and Lolly. CONTINUED

Alumni updates,

managerial finance and investments from the University of Mississippi in 2006. He is vice president of sales for North and South Carolina for MetLife Investors Group in Charleston, South Carolina. Reade is a marketing analyst for Quant Systems in Charleston. w Kelly Priddy Breazeale, Class of 2002, is a third-grade reading teacher with Humboldt City Schools. Kelly has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Mississippi. She and her husband, Steven, live in Jackson. (kapriddy@yahoo.com) w Taylor Nelson Davis, Class of 2004, married Samuel Davis on September 29. Taylor has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and received her Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis. Sam also is pursuing his Doctorate of Pharmacy degree from UT in Memphis. The couple lives in Jackson. w Sara Kirkland, Class of 2005, is a

…

senior verification associate for ACA Compliance Group in New York. She attended Belmont University and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where she received a finance degree. (skirkland@acacompliancegroup.com) w Andrew Long, Class of 2005, married Alexis Robertson August 25 in Normandy, Tennessee. Andrew earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in finance from Middle Tennessee State University. He is in the Commercial Lending Department of BancorpSouth in Jackson. Alexis is the event coordinator for Gourmet Your Way. The couple lives in Jackson. w Worth Eubanks, Class of 2006, married Natalie Parker in November. Worth graduated in 2010 from Mississippi State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He is a crop insurance specialist with Farm Credit MidAmerica. The couple lives in Bells. w Wade Thomson III and Adriana Subia, both members of the Class of

2007, married in late December in Panama City. Wade graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a degree in construction management. He is a crew foreman with Thomson & Thomson. Adriana earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from UTC. She teaches Lower School Spanish at USJ. The couple lives in Jackson. w Frank Crocker, Class of 2007, married Dallas Leasure in late December in Jackson. Frank earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He then joined the U.S. Marine Corps. He completed OCC-209 in March and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He began Infantry Officer Course in January. The couple lives in Washington, D.C. w Jennifer Taylor, Class of 2008, is an assistant at InStyle.com. Jennifer earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications from Samford University in 2012. She lives in New York. (jenniferltaylor616@gmail.com)

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL of JACKSON 2ND ANNUAL HOMECOMING WEEKEND EVENT! Open to ALL Current and Alumni USJ Families!

Friday, September 27, 2013 Homecoming Game

5th Quarter

Kirkland Football Field Kickoff at 7 p.m. Come watch the Bruins play ECS.

After the game we’ll gather for food, fun, and remembering when we were younger.

Saturday, September 28, 2013 Golf Tournament, Ladies Luncheon, and Fashion Show Details will be on usjbruins.org later this summer! Contact: Carrie Brown Smith Campbell l 731.664.0812, ext. 51 l ccampbell@usjbruins.org

West Tennessee’s College Preparatory School www.usjbruins.org UNIVERSITY SCHOOL of JACKSON 232 MCCLELLAN ROAD JACKSON, TN 38305 Address Service Requested

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Jackson, TN Permit #845