FAMILIES OF WALDRON

THE FORTENBERRY/GRIFFIN FAMILY

Keenan Fortenberry ‘17 currently attends Howard University and plays on their D1 football team. He had an amazing Freshman year, making Dean’s list fall semester and finishing out his Freshman year with honors!

Although Keenan graduated in 2017, the spirit of Waldron education resonates with him and his mother to this day. Coming to WMA was appealing to Kaci and Keenan for the small class sizes, the family-oriented reputation and the willingness to help anyone in need.

When asked what Mercy means to them, Keenan and Kaci described it as being “kind, thoughtful and grateful at all times,” which is absolutely true of the imprint they had on our Waldron community!

The Mcclennen Family

While the last McClennen graduated WMA in 1999, their spirit of Mercy and generosity still lives on in our community to this day. Karen McClennen, having taught at WMA herself, knew that her children would receive a quality education along with Mercy values here at Waldron.

The McClennen family enjoyed many aspects of the WMA community, but most notably that the teachers inspired their children “to think critically” and put a strong emphasis on writing. George McClennen also still serves on our Finance Committee and is an integral part of our organization!

The Bird Family

The Bird family, while being brand new to Waldron in 2021, has quickly established themselves as an integral part of the WMA community. Jumping at the chance to volunteer their time and energy, Don and Catherine co-chaired the 2022 Tigerfest event with resounding success!

When asked about their favorite part of a Waldron education, the Birds were quick to respond:

“The way in which they truly love and care for our kids and family. The teachers and administration are very hands on and bring joy to work everyday! We also love the confidence they build, beyond just academics. They are truly preparing our girls at a young age to appreciate the world and seize every opportunity! From reading at the Christmas concert, to presenting their projects in kindergarten, they have discovered their voice and the power they have within themselves. That is a gift.”

We are so excited to have Michaela and Isabella as Waldron students and incredibly grateful for the joy and support from the entire Bird family!

The Mcgovern Family

The McGovern family has been a wonderful part of our Waldron Mercy community since Jim attended and graduated in 1985. After marrying Christine, the pair sent their 4 children (Julia ‘15, Jimmy ‘16, Ella and current 6th grader Mason) to WMA as well. While they knew Waldron personally through Jim and his family, they were also attracted by the diversity of students and families, Catholic education and Mercy values, small class sizes and academic rigor.

To the McGovern family, Mercy is not just a saying but “a way of life,” which “blends compassion, empathy, critical thinking, respect and integrity.”

We are thrilled to have the McGovern family as alumni and to have Mason on campus for a few more years to come!