A publication for families, alumni and friends of Westchester Country Day School
Space to Move and Explore
ON THE COVER: Lower School students don’t just play around — they are developing the mental and physical strength and skills needed for future success in the classroom and beyond. Madelyn Young and friends from the Class of 2036 enjoy the addition of swings to the new playground. Swinging supports the vestibular system and helps children develop their coordination.
ABOVE: Madelyn’s brother Wrenn enjoys the variety of climbing structures on the new playground, which encourage safe risk-taking and help children develop their balance and coordination.
BACK COVER: C.A.R.E.S. Crews buddies from several grade levels meet up in the courtyard. Every Westchester student is paired with an older or younger buddy for fellowship and service throughout the year. (Photo by Liz Grogan Photography/The Scout Guide Triad) Board
WCDS MISSION
To cultivate responsible citizens and leaders by embracing all backgrounds and nurturing personal excellence.
WILDCAT PAWS is published by:
Westchester Country Day School 2045 N. Old Greensboro Road High Point, NC 27265 336.869.2128 www.westchestercds.org
For questions or comments, contact Laurie Beck Hogan ’02, director of communications and marketing, at 336.822.4084.
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2024–2025
Tom Van Dessel, President
Jenny Varner, Vice President
Kristin Sams Crowe ’01, Secretary
Laurie Briggs, Treasurer & Past Board Chair
Matt Altamura
Jay Brinson ’94
Jamie Collins ’90
Braden Covington
Tasha Dial
Tara Elliott
Kristy Barnes Le
Doug Muir
Matt Nowell
Priya Paruchuri
Jackie Tyson
Mary Keever, ex officio Head of School
2023–2024
Tom Van Dessel, President
Jenny Varner, Vice President
Jamie Collins ’90, Secretary Braden Covington, Treasurer
Laurie Briggs, Past Board Chair
Matt Altamura
Jay Brinson ’94
Kristin Sams Crowe ’01
Tasha Dial
Tara Elliott
Kristy Barnes Le
Doug Muir
Matt Nowell
Priya Paruchuri
Jackie Tyson
Mary Keever, ex officio Interim Head of School
Choir
HEAD OF SCHOOL MARY KEEVER and husband Wes celebrate Homecoming 2024 with daughters Abby ’24 and Dory ’21.
Mary Keever Head of School
x.com/WCDS_Head
Being Well Is Hard Work
Our Wildcat Nation has much to celebrate. I hope you fully feel the energy and positive momentum we have going.
In academics, our “STEAM Team” introduced the faculty to the Wildcat Design Process, an approach to problem solving and critical thinking for every classroom and subject pre-K-12. It guides students through the steps of design thinking: Ask, Explore, Plan, Create, Test and Improve. It is exciting to see this reaccreditation goal coming to life in our classrooms.
Around campus, the effects of planning, building and improving are on full display. We celebrated the opening of a fantastic new playground, which is enjoyed by Wildcats of all ages. The seniors loved taking turns on the swings and many young and old have enjoyed the big slide. If you haven’t had the opportunity to propel yourself down the gorgeous hillside of campus yet, please come take a slide! We also embarked on major renovations to our library, which is now the Qubein Center. Campus is abuzz following other
improvements too. Covered walkways are added to the carpool area; buildings have fresh paint and flooring; the bathrooms in Phillips Hall received a total renovation and a mother’s room; the baseball and soccer scoreboards have been updated; and the addition of another new outdoor recreational space is in full swing!
After several months of listening sessions with many different groups of parents, staff, alumni and community partners, the Board of Trustees approved an updated mission statement that will serve to guide us along with a strategic plan to be introduced to the school community.
And as it happens each year, we celebrate our wonderful seniors as they bring closure to their high school years and prepare for their next adventures. We share in their joy as they take these next steps into their bright futures.
In all the excitement of life, I invite you to join me in continuing our focus on Wildcat Wellness. Borrowing from the words of Bettina L. Love, “Wellness is wisdom and being well is
hard work… make room for lovely things to rush in and fill you full.” As we navigate a world after a pandemic filled with ever-changing technology and influences, I welcome the opportunity to partner with families in service of their child-raising endeavors while creating a sense of belonging and purpose for everyone in our community. By exploring some of the challenges families are facing, I hope to engage together as we explore the best ways to communicate and support our students, parents, and faculty as we bolster our social, emotional, and physical health and safety. We are continuing a speaker series and parent book club each semester. As we partner together in service to our children, these sessions allow parents to participate however they are able, whether that is in reading the book, participating in the discussions, attending the sessions, or all of the above.
I am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve as your Head of School and champion this Wildcat Nation. I look forward to working together with each of you to do the work of being well. Together we can make room for lovely things to rush in and fill us full.
What We’re Reading
FALL BOOK CLUB
“The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness” by Jonathan Haidt
SPRING BOOK CLUB
“The Screentime Solution” by Emily Cherkin
Mary Keever Appointed as 14th Head of School
The Board of Trustees appointed longtime WCDS teacher and administrator Mary Keever as the 14th head of school. The news of her unanimous selection was shared with faculty and parents on April 26, 2024.
Keever served as interim head of school during the 2023-2024 school year. She has been a Wildcat for 25 years, serving as a language arts and literature teacher since 1999.
“Mary has done a phenomenal job leading Westchester forward. [As interim head], she demonstrated excellence in handling the day-to-day requirements of the job while operating at a strategic level,” said Tom Van Dessel, president of the Westchester Board of Trustees. “We are very fortunate to have such a capable educator and administrator come up from within the Westchester faculty. This speaks to the overall quality and character of our school community.”
Previously, Keever was head of Middle School, a position she held from 2012 until she was named interim head of school. Additional roles at WCDS include dean of faculty and assistant head in the Middle School, athletic coach, and SAIS reaccreditation coordinator.
She and husband Wes are High Point residents who have established roots of involvement and connection within the community. Their daughters, Dory ’21 and Abby ’24, attended Westchester from kindergarten.
“I am blessed to serve alongside such talented administration and staff while engaging with students from pre-K to 12th grade and their families,” said Keever. “The Board of Trustees has been exceptional and selfless as we’ve worked together on developing a strategic plan to guide Westchester through the next five years. I am thrilled for the opportunity to lead this plan and our vision for continued impact and service to our greater community.”
BOARD OF TRUSTEES PRESIDENT TOM VAN DESSEL INTRODUCES MARY
KEEVER as Westchester’s 14th head of school during a faculty and staff meeting in April 2024.
WCDS Prioritizes Wellness
WExpert Insights
estchester Country Day School continuously seeks to provide the best learning environment for its students. While there are several key ingredients to encouraging students to flourish, the faculty and staff of WCDS have realized the need for a renewed emphasis on overall wellness in the years following the coronavirus pandemic.
“We’ve noticed changes in the social and emotional wellness of our students,” said Mary Keever, head of school. “For two to three years, families experienced uncertainty and disruptions to their well-established routines and social interactions, and children sensed the stress. This has impacted their social-emotional development.”
To address the challenges students, teachers and families have faced, Keever introduced a Wellness Plan as a way for families and educators to partner together on a variety of childhood topics.
A highlight of this plan is a series of parent education events designed to provide valuable insights and resources and equip parents with the knowledge and tools to support their children’s well-being.
In addition to the parent education series, the Wellness Plan includes lessons and activities for students taught by school counselors and nurses, professional development for teachers and staff, and wellness tips to support the staff’s own well-being.
Watch Online — Visit www.westchestercds.org/ wellness for resources from the Wellness Series and to find out about upcoming events.
Spaces to Create and Explore
Library renovations are adding new features to campus
Makerspace: Equipped with tools, electronics and materials to encourage student creativity, problem-solving skills, and hands-on STEAM projects, the makerspace serves as an extension of classroom instruction and has access to the adjacent playground, allowing for seamless integration of indoor and outdoor learning experiences.
Robotics Lab: Featuring educational robotics for all grade levels, from VEX 123 for pre-K/kindergarten to VEX EXP for Upper School, the Robotics Lab enhances computer science education and provides students with hands-on experience in robotics through advanced tools like RobotLab NAO.
Mental Health – Counseling professionals
Na-Twan Allen, Catherine Cheek, Donna Cumby, and Jackie Tyson spoke about childhood anxiety, resilience, risk-taking, and grief with practical tips for supporting social-emotional development at home and in the classroom.
Technology – WCDS school counselor
Sabrina Winstead and technology faculty members Terry Andrews, Teresa Denmark and Deb Tuggle shared information on internet and social media use, open communication about family expectations, and the effects of technology on social-emotional and physical health.
Literacy – Lower School teachers from grades PK-2 shared the latest research on the Science of Reading, information on what to look for in quality literacy instruction, and tools to support children with reading and writing skills at home.
Athletics – Matt Spear, athletic advisor and leadership mentor, Mara Duncan, physician assistant and athletic trainer, and Zach Haines, head soccer coach at High Point University, discussed the social and emotional health of student athletes, providing practical tips about mental fitness, injury prevention, finding balance, and the qualities coaches seek in college athletes.
Versatile Function Areas: These spaces are designed to foster collaboration, accommodate various teaching methods, support different group sizes, and meet individual study needs, creating a dynamic and flexible learning environment.
Qubein Family Supports Transformative Library Renovation
Amajor renovation to Westchester Country Day School’s library is transforming the space into a modern learning hub.
Nido and Mariana Qubein, longtime supporters of Westchester and education in High Point, committed $1 million to update the building into the state-of-the-art Qubein Center.
The comprehensive renovation will foster curiosity and innovation at Westchester. While housing the school’s library collections and volumes, the Qubein Center adds a makerspace, robotics lab and other versatile indoor and outdoor spaces for teaching and exploring.
“Our family is proud to contribute to Westchester, a school that aligns with our belief in the transformative power of education by emphasizing critical thinking, creativity and innovation,” said Nido Qubein. “These are the skills we emphasize in the students at High Point University, and we are pleased to see Westchester also committing to teaching the life skills that will prepare students for a successful future.”
The Qubein family are long-time supporters of Westchester and have entrusted the school with their children, who are proud alumni, and grandchildren. Their involvement in education extends beyond Westchester, with the Qubein Scholarship Fund providing more than 800 scholarships for local students to attend college in North Carolina since 1973.
“Their commitment to academic excellence and community serves as a great example for our students,” said Mary Keever, head of school. “The
Qubein Center will help us inspire students to practice using the design thinking and science, technology, engineering, art and math skills we are including in our academic curriculum at all grade levels.”
Nido Qubein is known for leading the transformation at High Point University to a nationally recognized university listed in the Princeton Review. He has grown the campus from three to 13 academic schools and net assets of $1.2 billion. A businessman and author, his philanthropic efforts include lead gifts for the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center and Qubein School of Communications. He is also known for leading the downtown High Point redevelopment group that provided more than $70 million to purchase the High Point Rockers, stadium enhancements like Blessing Park, the Slane Family Center, Wilson Plaza, operating costs and the new Nido and Mariana Qubein Children’s Museum.
TOP: Exterior improvements to the building as shown in this rendering will allow seamless integration of indoor and outdoor learning experiences, connecting the Qubein Center’s makerspace with the adjacent playground.
BOTTOM: Nido and Mariana Qubein, at center, and their children and grandchildren visited the library at WCDS as renovations began in December 2023. Pictured from left are WCDS alumni Michael Qubein, Cristina Qubein Buckfelder ’04, Ramsey Qubein ’98, and Deena Qubein Samuel ’01 with their families, including current students Austin Samuel ’32, Grayson Samuel ’34, and Wesley Samuel ’36.
ty, including organizations such as Family Service of the Piedmont, the High Point Arts Council and Westchester, among others. Notably, she spent the last 18 years developing the award-winning gardens at High Point University. In 2019, she authored her first book, “Planting Seeds of Greatness.”
Mariana Qubein has made countless contributions in the communi-
Westchester’s library building originally opened on the school campus in December 1993. This is its first major renovation in 30 years.
The Class of 2024
Westchester Country Day School celebrated its 53rd graduation ceremony on June 1, 2024, for a class of 32 graduates who achieved 100 percent college acceptance and $5+ million in scholarships.
The ceremony includes several traditions unique to the school’s recognition of graduates, including a bagpipe processional. As the graduates come forward to receive their diplomas, faculty members give tribute speeches, highlighting their growth as students and offering insight into their talents and interests.
Left: Mallory Atkinson and English teacher Mr. Frank Morelli exchange a special handshake as they walk forward for the faculty tribute.
Center: Charlie Blair receives a t-shirt from Mr. Brook Patterson, assistant athletic director and basketball coach, during his tribute.
Right: Board of Trustees President Tom Van Dessel congratulates MJ Edwards and presents his diploma.
2024 Graduates
Mallory Theresa Atkinson
Joshua Dale Bayne
Davis Aidan Todd Beck
Charles Andrew Blair
Lyndon Carroll Briggs
Emilie Grace Carey
Lauren Olivia Cockrum
Benjamin Stoermer Daniel
Carson Clifton Daniel
Malcolm Xavier Edwards
Morgan Rosa Elliott
William Finnegan Fleming
Covington Ann Hauser
Benjamin Thomas Hunsberger Aleeza Iqbal
The Class of 2024 was accepted to 79 different colleges and universities. Six of the graduates signed to play collegiate athletics. Thirteen members of the class were invited to participate in selective honors programs. Nine were named AP Scholars for achieving high scores on the national exams they took for these college-level courses.
VALEDICTORIAN: Isabella Reid, a 13-year graduate of Westchester, plans to study neuroscience at Duke University.
“I say whatever you do, do it well, even if it is not your favorite thing. Simply show up and do your best. It’s the effort that matters not only for you but for all of the people who have invested in you. Most of the time when you just try, the outcome will be even better than you imagined.”
— Isabella Reid, valedictorian
SALUTATORIAN: Maggie O’Keeffe, also a 13-year graduate, plans to study life sciences and pre-medicine at North Carolina State University. Visit westchestercds.org on the web to view a full list of scholarships and college acceptances.
Emma Abigail Keever Ava Grace Klein
Katherine Grace Lavelle
Jose Antonio Lopez
Elizabeth Godwin Marsh
Hannah Elizabeth Melgar
Olivia Grace Mueller
Margaret Casey O’Keeffe
Isabella Claire Reid
Jaden Jene Richardson
William Leon Rives
Jalen Miles Umstead
Benedict Douglas Tom Van Dessel
William Tate Vogler
Katherine Floriene Walter Kaytlin Abigail Williamson
Riley Colette Yanez
JUNIOR MARSHALS: Thomas Brinson, Chase Hesling, Claire Neal, Sutton Scott and Cooper Singer led the graduates in the processional.
Members of the Class of 2024 are ready to pursue a variety of college and career plans. On the opposite page, graduates toss their caps following the graduation ceremony at Wesley Memorial Methodist Church in High Point.
Power Play
New Play Spaces Support the Academic, Physical and Social Growth of
Students
Aplayground is more than just a place for children to play. It’s a learning tool that promotes cognitive, social and emotional development.
At Westchester Country Day School, the opening of a new Lower School playground has marked a significant milestone in the school’s commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education and an emphasis on holistic wellness.
The nature-based design blends into the wooded landscape of campus to inspire students to take an interest in exploring the great outdoors. It offers a variety of play features to get the body moving through swinging, sliding and climbing and the brain working through social play and creative expression.
The most exciting feature — a large slide and climbing wall built into the hillside terrain — even encourages students to come out of their comfort zone and take a bit of a risk.
More than just a place to have fun, the playground and the school’s other outdoor recreational spaces, are vital tools for fostering learning and development in students of all ages.
NOT JUST PLAYING AROUND
When the Lower School students go outside, they might think they are just playing, but science shows that play is essential to their development. The teachers of Westchester’s youngest Wildcats understand this. They factor movement into the school day to develop the gross motor skills that are building blocks to the fine motor skills needed for future school success.
For example, before children can sit at desks and practice neat handwriting, they must build the muscle
strength that provides the stamina to do this. And while their play is helping their bodies become strong, coordinated and balanced, it is also helping their brains make crucial neural connections.
“Where adults may view the playground as a place to let loose and get the wiggles out, to a child, it’s where they learn important skills such as decision making, problem solving and taking risks,” explains Blair Hawley, head of Lower School.
Play also provides opportunities for social interaction and cooperation, helping children develop essential values like friendship and teamwork.
A committee of pre-K, kindergarten and first grade teachers advised the design of Westchester’s new playground based on their research and observations of the foundational skills children need.
“Play is a vital part of a child’s development, and that is why it was so important that we thoughtfully planned the details to give purpose to this new playground,” Hawley says.
KIDS DON’T OUTGROW THE NEED FOR MOVEMENT
While play may be more associated with younger children, Westchester faculty members know that movement is equally important for teenagers. In fact, one of the lessons learned from holding school in-person during the coronavirus pandemic is the importance of “brain breaks” for Middle and Upper School students. Short bursts of physical activity, like playing four square, lift spirits and improve focus.
Physical activity can have a significant impact on both mental and
ABOVE: Zahran Khawaja ’36 and other Lower School students build strength and courage on the hillside slide and climbing wall.
OPPOSITE: Ella McCrary and Katherine Newsome enjoy imaginative play in the outdoors.
physical health. It can reduce stress and anxiety while improving memory, attention and problem-solving skills. Regular exercise can enhance academic performance with a boost to mood and motivation.
This is why Westchester is expanding the outdoor spaces designed for older students too. Construction on an additional recreational space with various sport surfaces is underway near the Rives Hall courtyard.
MENS SANA IN CORPORE SANO: A SOUND MIND IN A SOUND BODY
Westchester’s recognition of the connection between body and mind dates to the school’s founding, when the Latin motto “Mens Sana in Corpore Sano” was adopted. Both a sound mind and sound body are needed to pursue personal excellence. By continuing to emphasize play and movement throughout the school day, Westchester is helping students enhance their readiness for advanced academics and their development of social-emotional health and wellness.
Playground Ribbon Cutting Celebrated
The new playground opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 15, 2023.
During the grand opening, teachers, parents, grandparents and friends watched as fifth graders and their senior buddies explored the new space for the first time.
Before cutting the ribbon, Mary Keever, head of school, thanked the donors, faculty committee and contractors who worked together on planning and designing the playground and driveway projects.
“In my 25 years at WCDS, this tops the list of moments filled with such a high level of respect and wonderment for such a blessing,” said Keever. “One of our core principles is collaboration, and this playground project certainly reflected that.”
The playground designer was Scott Cunningham of Cunningham Recreation, and the project manager was Scott Krueger of Strada Bauen. Smith and Jennings Inc. provided grading for the project.
Westchester began the playground construction during the summer of 2023 in the area that had been the carpool circle since the 1990s. This space was identified in the school’s master plan, which called for improving campus security by closing the
secondary entrance to the carpool circle and rerouting traffic to the main entrance on North Old Greensboro Road. The Wildcat Trail driveway was widened to allow for a new carpool loop in front of the Finch Center, which opened for the first day of the 2023-2024 school year, while the playground work continued for a few months.
The new playground, driveway improvements, and covered walkways and recreational space in progress are part of the Westchester Forward campaign, a multiyear investment in school facilities, academic programs, security and the endowment. Previous projects in the campaign included the Wilson Student Center in 2020, keyless entry door locks and cameras in 2022, and significant progress toward debt elimination.
The Earl and Kathryn Congdon Family Foundation donated $1.7 million to support the development of the new outdoor spaces.
On the left, students in the Class of 2031 hop into a game of gaga ball on the new playground. In the middle, Emma Reese Ballance takes her first ride down the big hillside slide. On the right, students enjoy climbing and sliding on the new equipment.
Hudson Chiu ’31, Mrs. Blair Hawley, head of Lower School, Ava Harrell ’31, Mrs. Mary Keever, head of school, and Megan Oglesby, executive director of the Earl and Kathryn Congdon Family Foundation and WCDS parent, cut the ribbon to officially open the new playground.
Academic Awards | 2023–2024
Upper School
Peter M. Cowen
Outstanding Senior Award
Isabella Reid
Cobb Atkinson
Good Citizenship Award
Abby Williamson
Suzi Holliman
Humanitarian Award
Hannah Melgar
Valedictorian
Isabella Reid
Salutatorian
Maggie O’Keeffe
Westchester Cup
Mallory Atkinson
Student Government Award
Ava Klein, Abby Williamson
Vijaya Kumar Chemistry Award
Sutton Scott
Peters Family Scholarship
Thomas Brinson, Jackson Hedrick
Rothrock Scholarship
Kirian Veach, Claire Neal
International Student
Recognition
Kaya Camdere
9th Grade
Distinguished Scholar
Garrett Le, Elin Prifti
10th Grade
Distinguished Scholar
Ryan Engle
11th Grade
Distinguished Scholar
Cooper Singer
Commencement Marshals
Thomas Brinson, Chase
Hesling, Claire Neal, Sutton Scott, Cooper Singer
Art Award
Cooper Singer
Art Certificate
Anderson Carter, Cassie
Woodall, Katherine Walter
English Award
Mallory Atkinson
English Certificate
Elizabeth Walter, Chloe
Denmark, Ella Moore, Cooper Singer
Social Studies Award
Gram Tucker
Social Studies Certificate
Jaben Tomes, Emma Leonard, Sam Causey, Ryan Engle, Elin Prifti
Mandarin Award
Lyndon Briggs
Mandarin Certificate
Lucie Corrigan, Hadley Briggs, Annita
Keomalaythong, Cooper Singer
Math Award
Mallory Atkinson
Math Certificate
Isabella Reid, Claire Neal, Jameson Calfee, Garrett Le
Music Award
Mallory Atkinson, Lyndon Briggs
Music Certificate
Natalie Chrisman, Morgan Elliott
Science Award
Cassie Woodall
Science Certificate
Jaben Tomes, Annita Keomalaythong, Sam Causey
Spanish Award
Hannah Melgar
Spanish Certificate
Emma Hunsberger, Pallavi Paruchuri, Isabella Reid
Theatre Award
Cooper Singer, Hadley Briggs
Theatre Certificate
Liv Mueller, Natalie Clinard
DAR Good Citizen
Mallory Atkinson
Governor’s School
Ella Moore, Cooper Singer
High Point University Book Award
Jaben Tomes
Middle School
Freddie Kirkman Award
Maddie Taylor, Addy Grace Winstead
Emma Padgett Award
Ginny Thompson, Medara Patron
Scott Patterson Award
James Collins
Student Government
Addy Grace Winstead
Rothrock Scholarship
Misha Cap
AP Recognition
The College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding college-level achievement through their performance on AP exams, which are scored on a scale of 1 to 5.
AP Scholars received scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams:
Ava Klein, Riley Yanez
AP Scholars with Honor received an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more exams:
Davis Beck, Abby Williamson
AP Scholars with Distinction received an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more exams:
Mallory Atkinson, Lyndon Briggs, Maggie O’Keeffe, Liv Mueller, Isabella Reid
The Wildcat Design Process
WCDS prepares students to approach complex challenges
Westchester Country Day School prepares its graduates to thrive in the real world, where they will undoubtedly encounter projects and tasks that don’t even exist yet. To be successful, they will need a whole host of problem-solving and critical thinking skills. WCDS is committed to providing every graduate with these tools.
The faculty are integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) across the curriculum to ensure every student, teacher, and classroom benefits from this interdisciplinary approach. The school established this initiative as one of its SAIS Accreditation 2023 goals, explaining its importance to student learning as follows:
“We believe that STEAM integration is vital to our curriculum because it allows our students to go beyond learning individual subjects and empowers them to dive into problems where all of these subjects collide in a natural and logical manner.”
ROOTED IN THE SCHOOL’S PHILOSOPHY
At Westchester, learning has always been about more than memorizing facts or amassing knowledge. It’s about building the skills needed to develop independent critical thought, to research, ask questions, create, express ideas and continuously improve. With essential skills such as the 7Cs—Creativity, Collaboration,
Communication, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness, Cross-Curricular Connections, and Character Development—already embedded in the curriculum, WCDS is taking it to the next level by elevating STEAM as a fundamental part of the classroom culture.
The STEAM Team, a group of faculty members representing different disciplines and divisions, is leading the way. Part of this work is providing professional development to the faculty on how to bring STEAM concepts into any subject area. By doing so, students are no longer learning subjects in isolation but getting the benefit of exploring the intersection of multiple disciplines. They learn to connect ideas, become comfort-
OPPOSITE: Coraleigh Byrne and Ronav Paruchuri, Class of 2032, build in the STEAM Lab. Students learn to build and create with a variety of materials during C-Time, STEAM and Technology classes.
LEFT: Quinten Stofferis, James Collins, Max Volynets and Luke Heybrock, Class of 2028, use concepts from the Wildcat Design Process to construct a robot in the technology lab in Phillips Hall.
BELOW LEFT: Middle School students apply the Wildcat Design Process to paper writing. After following the ask, explore, plan and create steps, they test out their draft and gather feedback for improvement through peer review.
BELOW RIGHT: Teagan Teppara and Will Bradley, Class of 2033, test the effectiveness of the spider parachute they made in STEAM Lab.
able with unknowns, and develop confidence in solving real problems. Whether organizing a presentation, creating a 3-D printed model, or combining art and engineering, Westchester students do work together that will benefit them far beyond the classroom.
DESIGN THINKING IN ACTION
At the heart of the STEAM initiative is the Wildcat Design Process. This schoolwide approach to design thinking invites students to identify challenges, brainstorm solutions, try out and test ideas, and improve their work. The design process is visible in every classroom, where teachers have it posted on their walls and help
students go through the steps for a variety of projects across all grade levels and subjects.
ENGAGING THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY
While the STEAM initiative is intended to impact student learning, it also has the power to inspire beyond daily classroom instruction. The STEAM Team trained all faculty and staff on using the Wildcat Design Process in a workshop during the 2023-2024 school year. The group will be bringing a STEAM Night to families in February 2025.
Each year, extracurricular activities ensure students continue to explore their STEAM interests and
develop skills in creative and collaborative ways. VEX Robotics teams, the Odyssey of the Mind program, and STEAM summer camps complement classroom learning while reinforcing the design thinking principles of the Wildcat Design Process.
The Wildcat Design Process
Ask — Identify the problem or goal
Explore — Research and brainstorm Plan — Outline, sketch, and design
Create — Write, build, or execute the plan
Test — Try it out, evaluate, and collect feedback
Improve — Reflect and modify the plan based on results and feedback
Student Teams Advance to World Finals
Westchester’s STEAM extracurricular programs are at it again. The school celebrated student teams advancing to the World Finals in both VEX Robotics and Odyssey of the Mind in 2024.
VEX Robotics is a competitive robotics program in which students design, build and program a robot to complete a series of challenges. Students in Lower, Middle and Upper School have opportunities to participate.
A fifth-grade team represented WCDS at the World Championship in Dallas, Texas. The all-girl team named Rubik Racers, made up of Anna Kate Albert, Emma Reese Ballance, and Johanna English, Class of 2031, and their robot, Ruby, placed 22nd out of 82 teams in their division. They received an invitation to the world competition after ranking first in the state and winning at both regional and North Carolina VEX IQ state competitions.
After working for hours throughout the school year designing, building, programming, testing and improving their robot to perform a series of tasks, they experienced the energy of the huge event, where 420 elementary teams from around the world gathered. The WCDS team met many teams
from other countries and nations.
Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving competition in which a team of up to seven students works together to solve a hands-on problem ranging from building a vehicle, to developing an AI device, to interpreting a classic work of literature into a modern adaptation. All of the solutions include a performance with original characters, script, costumes and sometimes songs. Opportunities are available for students K-12.
WCDS sent two Upper School teams to Iowa for the 2024 World Finals after both teams won first place in their problems at the regional and state competitions.
One of the teams, with members Cooper Singer ’25 and 2024 graduates Liv Mueller, Mallory Atkinson, Maggie O’Keeffe and Ava Klein placed 8th worldwide in the classics problem, “Opening Night Antics.” The second team, with Luke Heybrock and James Collins, Class of 2028, and Talia Taylor, Skylar Townsend, Clinton Wagoner, Pallavi Paruchuri and Wilson Caddy, Class of 2027, placed 11th worldwide for their problem, AI-Tech-No-Art. They were among teams from the United States, China, Hong Kong, Poland, Germany, Korea and more.
ABOVE: WCDS team members represented the state of North Carolina at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals.
BELOW: Rubik Racer team members
Emma Reese Ballance, Johanna English and Anna Kate Albert, Class of 2031, practice driving their robot on a field set up in one of the technology labs in Phillips Hall.
TOP: WCDS Odyssey team members pose with their costumes and original robot created for their solution to the AI-Tech-No-Art problem.
WCDS Singers Join Carnegie Hall Debut
Unique experiences encourage students to pursue artistic excellence
Students in the Upper School at Westchester had the extraordinary opportunity to debut new music and work directly with a professional composer and conductor at an iconic performance venue.
The Concert Choir traveled to New York City to sing with other choirs from across the U.S. at Carnegie Hall.
Along with distinguished soloists and the New England Symphonic Ensemble, they lifted their voices for the New York premiere of “Magnificat” by composer-conductor Marc-André Bougie. They also performed Mozart’s Mass in C Major, K. 317 “Coronation Mass,” conducted by Leslie Dala. The concert was part of MidAmerica Productions’ 40th anniversary season.
The Concert Choir, under the direction of Mrs. Shelley Jennings, music teacher and interim director of the arts, is one of several arts elective courses available to students in the Upper School.
“We love Westchester’s small size, but our singers would not be able to perform large works of music without joining other choirs,” said Jennings. “It is a great honor being a part of the premiere of Bougie’s ‘Magnificat.’ We have been given the unique opportunity to learn this piece, composed just last year, along with Mozart’s ‘Coronation Mass,’ written way back in 1779. I can’t think of a better place than Carnegie Hall for this experience.”
In preparation for the momentous performance, the Concert Choir participated in a choral clinic with Bougie, the composer of “Magnificat.” This experience provided the students with valuable insights into the piece and allowed them to work closely with the composer himself while he visited Westchester.
Following the trip, Concert Choir member Hadley Briggs said she enjoyed experiencing how different
Theater Spotlight
Maggie O’Keeffe ’24 13 Years on the WCDS Stage
From her WCDS debut as a baby elephant, some of Maggie O’Keeffe’s most memorable moments of growing up involved the Rives Hall stage.
“My journey at Westchester did not start on the first day of kindergarten, but rather, it began sitting in Rives Hall watching ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and telling my mom that I wanted to go to school at Westchester to do what I was seeing on the stage. I knew from the age of 4 that Westchester’s theater program was special.”
musicians approach warm-ups or interpreting the music. She also recognized the value of working directly with Bougie.
“It was a great experience getting to have the person who composed the new piece be our conductor for the performance,” she said. “He was able to have us perform the piece exactly how he wanted, and I loved getting to be a part of it. Not even just the performance, but the rehearsals were great.”
For Briggs and her classmates, performing at Carnegie Hall was a landmark moment that serves to inspire them to keep pursuing artistic excellence.
“This unique experience has encouraged me to continue to participate and grow in the performing arts. I loved getting to sing on that stage and be able to have such a professional experience. Westchester has really helped nurture my love for the arts and realize that it is what I want to pursue in the future.”
She started out in Westchester’s 2012 production of “The Jungle Book Kids” in kindergarten and brought a variety of characters to life as she developed as a performer. Such roles included the warmth and fun of shopkeeper Oaken in “Frozen Jr.” and shining brightly as Tamatoa, the large treasure-hoarding crab, in “Moana Jr.” She capped off her senior year with the starring role of Cat in the Hat in “Seussical Jr.” and Timothy the Lion in “The Velveteen Rabbit.”
“Westchester has a unique atmosphere which provides every student with the opportunity to participate in any sport, club, or extracurricular activity they may enjoy or want to try. I loved being able to play golf, act on the stage, volunteer, and participate in clubs all while on campus. So, I strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunities Westchester provides!”
On the top, Marc-André Bougie, composer and conductor of a new work ‘Magnificat,’ visited Westchester for a choral clinic with the Concert Choir ahead of the New York premier. Below, Concert Choir teacher Mrs. Shelley Jennings snaps a selfie from the Carnegie Hall stage during rehearsal. On the opposite page, Avary Herman ’26 and Pallavi Paruchuri ’27 pause for a quick photo in Carnegie Hall before their performance.
Storybook Season
Children’s books set the scene for the 2023-2024 theater season at Westchester. Students got into character for shows featuring three literary favorites throughout the year.
“The Velveteen Rabbit,” Upper School play
On That Note
ArtsFest
WCDS continued the tradition of its outdoor art show and concerts in the spring. All music students performed on stage and student artwork decorated the landscape.
“Seussical Jr.,” Grades 1-12 musical
Footnotes Shines at Festival
Footnotes, the 3rd-5th grade chorus, performed in a music festival in Williamsburg, Virginia, where they received a Superior rating and won First Place Treble Choir.
“Alice the Musical,” K-8 musical
Athletic Awards | 2023–2024
Academic All Conference
The following students maintained a minimum 3.5 GPA and participated in at least two Varsity sports.
Grade 7: Sydney Kavchak
Grade 8: Luke Heybrock, Quinten Stofferis, Max Volynets, Addy Grace Winstead
Grade 9: Joseph Brinson, Clark Clodfelter, Ben Covington, Brooks Covington, Whit Hauser, Preston Kendrick, Coleman Schwartz, Emory Smith
Grade 10: Hadley Briggs, Eleanor Clark, Chloe Denmark, Selah Goins, Avary Herman, Annita Keomalaythong, Reeves
Lavelle, Lucy Mercadante, Ashlyn Rives, Chris Smith, Lukas Stofferis, Chase Sutton, Jaben Tomes, Beck Wilson, Caleb Winstead
Grade 11: Ava Apple, Thomas Brinson, Kaya Camdere, Natalie Chrisman, Mary Frances Collins, Harriss Covington, Jackson Hedrick, Chase Hesling, Ava Hoffman, Will Jones, EB McEnaney, Lauren Melton, Claire Neal, Nolan Patterson, Sutton Scott, Natalie Seperteladze, Elizabeth Shoaf, Elliott Smith, Gram Tucker, Kirian Veach, Daniel Volynets, Zayne Williamson
Grade 12: Mallory Atkinson, Joshua Bayne, Lauren Cockrum, Ben Daniel, MJ Edwards, Covington Hauser, Abby Keever, Isabella Reid, Jaden Richardson, Benedict Van Dessel, Abby Williamson
Bruce E. Hathaway, Jr.
Sportsmanship Award
Abby Keever, Ben Van Dessel
Scholar Athlete of the Year
Mallory Atkinson, Josh Bayne, Isabella Reid
Athlete of the Year
MJ Edwards, Covington Hauser
Iron Cat Award
Abby Keever, Isabella Reid
Special Recognition
Megan Vogler
Varsity Boys Cross Country
MVP – Chris Smith
Wildcat – Lukas Stofferis
Coach’s – Quinten Stofferis, Grant Littlefield
Varsity Girls Cross Country
MVP – Addy Grace Winstead
Wildcat – Eleanor Clark, Chloe Denmark
Coach’s – Reeves Lavelle
Varsity Girls Golf
MVP – Madi Dial
Wildcat – Mary Frances Collins
Coach’s – Abby Keever, Jaden Richardson
Varsity Boys Soccer
MVP – Ben Van Dessel
Wildcat – Will Rives, Daniel Volynets
“Squad”– Nolan Patterson
Varsity Girls Tennis
MVP – Ava Apple, Natalie Chrisman
Wildcat – Lizzie Marsh
Coach’s – Avary Herman
Varsity Girls Volleyball
MVP – Ava Klein
Wildcat – Cassie Woodall, Emilie Carey
Coach’s – Covington Hauser, Lauren Cockrum
Varsity Boys Basketball
MVP – MJ Edwards
Wildcat – Jalen Umstead, Josh Bayne
Coach’s – Nolan Patterson
Varsity Boys Swimming
MVP – Ben Hunsberger
Wildcat – Davis Williams
Coach’s – Ben Daniel, Lukas Stofferis
Varsity Girls Swimming
MVP – Mallory Atkinson
Wildcat – Ava Hoffman
Coach’s – Lauren Cockrum
Varsity Cheerleading
MVP – Kirian Veach
Wildcat – Ella Moore
Coach’s – Katherine Walter
Varsity Baseball
MVP – Tate Vogler
Wildcat – Carson Daniel, Tony Lopez
Coach’s – Jameson Calfee, Ryan Engle
Varsity Boys Golf
MVP – Jackson Hedrick, Mac Timberlake
Wildcat – Thomas Brinson
Coach’s – Josh Bayne
Varsity Boys Tennis
MVP – Clark Clodfelter
Wildcat – Ben Van Dessel
Coach’s – Liam Mueller
Varsity Girls Soccer
MVP – Covington Hauser
Wildcat – Ashlyn Rives
Coach’s – Abby Keever, Abby Williamson
Varsity Boys Track
MVP – Zayne Williamson
Wildcat – Daniel Volynets
Coach’s – Chris Smith
Varsity Girls Track
MVP – Claire Neal, Medara Patron
Wildcat – Eleanor Clark, Addy Grace Winstead
Coach’s – Mary Frances Collins, Chloe Denmark
Middle School Athletes of the Year
Ashton Pittman, Eli Moore, Jesse
Covington, Maddie Taylor, Medara
Patron, Addy Grace Winstead
Middle School
“Schwartzmanship” Awards
Max Volynets, Davis Williams, Caroline Elrod, Aubrey Shores
College Athletic Signing
Six members of the Class of 2024 announced plans to play college athletics during a College Athletic Signing Day event in May.
Jalen Umstead – Basketball at Bard College
Joshua Bayne – Basketball at Bard College
Lyndon Briggs – Rowing at Vassar College
Carson Daniel – Baseball at Patrick Henry
Community College
Tate Vogler – Baseball at Columbia University
Tony Lopez – Baseball at UNC Asheville
Track Team Shines at State Championships
Varsity Girls Track team members Grace Patron ’29, Eleanor Clark ’26, Medara Patron and Claire Neal ’25 won the 4 x 400 meter relay state championship. Medara Patron won her second state championship in the 300-meter hurdles. She also finished third in the 100-meter.
Varsity Boys Track team members Zayne Williamson ’25, Daniel Volynets ’25, Bo Culler ’27, and Davis Beck ’24 finished set school records during the season and finished second in the state championship 4 x 200 meter relay.
Swimmers Make Waves
Ben Hunsberger ’24 was a part of eight school records during the season and won third place at the 100 Fly state championship. The relay team of Ben Hunsberger, Lukas Stofferis ’26, Ben Daniel ’24 and Davis Williams ’28 also came in third in the 200 Free Relay.
The Middle School Boys A Basketball team won the PTAC regular season and conference tournament championships in 2024.
The Girls Golf team earned a runnerup finish at the 2023 PTAC Conference Championship behind medalist and Conference Player of the Year Madi Dial ’25. Madi finished 15th in the state championship and second-year Coach Marcy Newton was named Coach of the Year.
ALL-STATE HONORS
Tennis: Clark Clodfelter ’27
Soccer: Ben Van Dessel ’24, Daniel Volynets ’25
Baseball: Tate Vogler ’24, Ryan Engle ’26
PTAC CHAMPIONS
GIRLS GOLF FINISHES STRONG
WCDS Serves
Each year, Westchester involves students of all ages in service to others in a variety of hands-on projects. By joining together, students learn that they have a lot to share with the community and that serving others is a fun way to work together.
The C.A.R.E.S. Crews program pairs up classmates and buddies from another grade on several hands-on projects throughout the year. These projects help students practice compassion, awareness, responsibility, empathy and service.
For a Thanksgiving project, parent volunteers helped C.A.R.E.S. Crews pack care packages of new socks and toiletries to be distributed to Open
Door Ministries of High Point and Family Service of the Piedmont. They also wrote holiday cards for veterans and made snowflake decorations for Cancer GPS patients.
In the spring, students collected more than $2,400 in loose change for the school’s Change for Change initiative to raise awareness and support four charities with a donation: The ARC of High Point, Miracle League of High Point, Our Daily Bread in Asheboro, and Level the Playing Field. These projects and more help students learn that when everyone gives even just a little, they can make a big difference.
ABOVE: C.A.R.E.S. Crews from the classes of 2027 and 2034 fill bags with toiletries and personal items for local agencies.
BELOW: Buddies JD Chappell ’26 and Mac Lambeth ’33 pack a care package together.
TOP: Students present large checks to organizations representing the C.A.R.E.S. Crews donations from the Change for Change drive.
Letters for Veterans
Middle School students carry on longtime project
Did you know WCDS Middle School students have been writing letters to veterans for many years?
The Middle School sets aside time on Fridays throughout the school year to participate in a variety of service projects both in the field with agencies in the community and in their classrooms.
For the letter writing project, students write encouraging notes in letters and cards that are distributed at veterans events in the Triad. Partners in this project include the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces and the Heroes Center.
ABOVE: Middle School students and Mrs. Vanessa Sullens presented letters they wrote to veterans to Patrick Davis of the Heroes Center.
BELOW: Eyan Moore and Anish Upadhyaya, Class of 2030, write postcards to veterans during a Middle School service learning day.
Spreading Cheer
Lower School students and faculty members practiced the December character word of the month, GENEROSITY, by handing out coffee, hot cocoa and candy canes to parents during morning carpool.
Upper School students in the National Honor Society packaged 170 food bags for students at Fairview Elementary.
A fourth grader shares a treat with WCDS parent and alumna Lauren Ball ’02 in the carpool line.
WCDS parent and trustee Jackie Tyson, and faculty members Mrs. Amie Carey, Mrs. Vanessa Sullens and Ms. Emma Ruggery fill cups with hot cocoa and coffee.
Maxwell Simek ’33 delivers coffee and hot cocoa to cars.
25 Years
Mrs. Tracy Gill, Lower School assistant and bus driver, and Mrs. Mary Keever, head of school, received recognition during the end-of-year awards ceremonies for completing 25 years of service to the Westchester community.
WCDS Welcomes New Head of Upper School
Dr. Diana Parente joined WCDS as head of the Upper School in July 2024. She has been an educator for more than two decades with an array of roles in teaching and leadership. She taught history in a variety of disciplines, served as an athletic director for 13 years, and coached girls’ soccer at the middle school and varsity levels. Parente is also a consultant researcher and writer for the Women’s Sports Foundation. She has a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Syracuse University, a Master of Arts in social studies education 6-12 and a Master of Arts in school building leadership, both from New York University, and a Doctor of Education in K-12 Urban Education Leadership from the University of Southern California. She and her husband, Adam, have a son who is also a new Westchester Wildcat.
ONCE A WILDCAT, ALWAYS A WILDCAT
A group of retired faculty members who have made a tremendous impact on the lives of countless students and alumni gathered for lunch at Blue Rock Pizza in High Point.
TEACHERS LEARN TOO
Friends of the Fine Arts sponsored a field trip for WCDS faculty to the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh.
Celebrating Retirements and Years of Service
Mrs. Jan Martiniuk Simcox celebrated her retirement at a reception surrounded by family, colleagues and parents. Starting out at Westchester as a parent to three alumni children, David Martiniuk ’02, Ryan Martiniuk ’04 and Kim Thiessen ’07, she returned to WCDS as a second grade teacher in 2016. As the 2023-2024 school year concluded, Westchester also honored faculty for longevity of service and recognized some departing after many years of service to the school community. Faculty departures included Ashley Reid, fifth grade teacher since 2011; Mrs. Raegan Atkinson, director of college guidance since 2012; Mrs. Lisa Meyer-Braun, academic support, and Dr. Mark Braun, head of Upper School since 2012; Mr. Marsena Davis, facilities manager since 2012; and Mrs. Samantha Hauser, physical education teacher and coach since 2014.
Faculty Awards
BOTTOM: Mrs. Raegan Atkinson, director of college guidance for 12 years, congratulates Ben Daniel ’24 during the Graduation Luncheon.
The following faculty members were recognized for their outstanding service to Westchester. Mrs. Chelsey Beck was named WAPA Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Erin Eftink received the Class of 2005 Award. Mrs. Emily Mercadante was named T. Austin Finch Distinguished Teacher. Mrs. Charlene Marsh was named T. Austin Finch Master Teacher.
TOP: Mrs. Blair Hawley, head of Lower School, recognized Mrs. Ashley Reid for her years of service during the Fifth Grade Step-Up ceremony.
Father-Son Duo Inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame
Christopher Anderson ’12 and his father, Tim Anderson, joined a growing honor roll of alumni, coaches and friends in the Westchester Athletic Hall of Fame. They became the first cross country and track inductees as they were recognized for their contributions to athletic excellence.
“Both Tim and Chris are well respected in the North Carolina running community, as well as the Westchester school community. Their class, sportsmanship, work ethic and commitment to excellence has never wavered,” said Adam Schwartz, director of athletics.
In track and field, Christopher Anderson ’12 and teammates won back-to-back NCISAA team state championships and team conference championships in 2011 and 2012. He won individual state championships in the 1600 meter race in 2012 and the 3200 meter relay in 2011 and 2012. He also won individual conference championships in those years in the 3200 meter relay, 1600 meter relay, 3200 meter and 800 meter races. In cross country, he was the conference champion in 2011. He also earned all-state, all-county and all-conference honors. He was a three-time team MVP for cross country and team MVP for track and
field. He was honored as Co-Athlete of the Year in 2012 and holds records in the W-Day 5K race. Christopher received a running scholarship to UNC Charlotte in 2012 and to Appalachian State University from 2014-2017, where he was Sun Belt All-Conference.
Tim Anderson has coached cross country and track and field at WCDS since 2010, leading the boys and girls teams to numerous state and conference honors. His teams’ accolades for cross country include NCISAA 2A Boys Team State Champions in 2018, Boys Conference Champions five years in a row from 2011-2015, and Girls Conference Championships in 2016 and 2019. The girls team also finished in second place in the NCISAA 2A state championship four years in a row from 2018-2021. For track and field, Tim’s boys team won the NCISAA 2A Team State Championship in 2011 and 2012 and the Conference Championship eight years in a row from 2011-2018. They were the 2A State Team Runner-Up in five other years. His girls team won the NCISAA 2A Team State Championship in 2013 and finished as Conference Champions in 2013 and 2016. In total, his coaching has impacted 80+ state champions, 150+ all-state performances, and produced hundreds of lifelong runners.
TOP LEFT: Coach Tim Anderson and son Christopher Anderson ’12 were inducted into the Westchester Athletic Hall of Fame.
TOP RIGHT: Following the ceremony, Coach Tim Anderson is surrounded by students and alumni he has coached over the past 14 years on Westchester’s cross country and track teams.
LEFT: Athletic Director Adam Schwartz gives awards to Coach Tim Anderson and his son, cross country and track standout Christopher Anderson ’12, during a halftime recognition alongside their family.
WCDS Alumna Develops Life-Saving Health Innovation
Sophia Singer ’22 has designed a life-saving device out of common items that is receiving recognition as a global health innovation.
Singer, a mechanical engineering student at Duke University, teamed up with other college students to design the NeoNest, a low-cost infant warmer for Ugandan ambulances to combat preterm neonatal hypothermia.
The project began when Singer spent eight weeks living and working in Kampala, Uganda. There, she and her team – two students from Duke and two from Makerere University in Uganda – conducted needs assessments at multiple hospitals. They learned that ambulance drivers needed a solution to keep preterm infants at a safe body temperature while transporting them from rural villages to hospitals.
They developed a prototype of the NeoNest in a makerspace inside two shipping containers. The design uses locally sourced materials, including a can and insulation and an electric water mattress that maintains temperature for up to three hours.
Sophia credits her time at Westchester for providing the foundation
for her to think creatively and problem-solve in collaboration with a team. She participated in Odyssey of the Mind for 12 years, and her teams advanced all the way to the World Finals multiple times.
“Being involved with Odyssey of the Mind at Westchester taught me the importance of thinking outside the box,” she said. “Only through creative mindset were we able to decide to build our device entirely inside of a ‘Jerry’ can and use other local materials to create something that can have such a large impact.”
The NeoNest has the potential to save countless lives in Uganda, where preterm birth is a significant public health issue. Singer and her team are now working to scale up production and distribute the device to hospitals and clinics across the country.
The project is getting attention for its potential as an innovation for global health. Singer and her team won first place overall and a $5,000 prize in Rice360 Institute’s annual Global Health Technologies Undergraduate Design Competition, which included 24 teams from seven countries.
They also won first place and another $5,000 prize from the Africa Business Concept Challenge, which included 55 teams.
In addition, the project was selected as a global health finalist in the John’s Hopkins Healthcare Design Competition, finishing in the Top 8 out of 120 teams. They also received a $5,000 grant from VentureWell, a Medtech Accelerator, and attended an entrepreneurship workshop, where one of her Ugandan team members had the opportunity to travel to the U.S. for the first time.
Sophia Singer ’22 and her teammate Saajan Patel won first place overall in the Rice360 Global Health Technologies Undergraduate Design Competition.
Sophia Singer ’22, fellow Duke student Saajan Patel, and teammates from Makerere University in Uganda designed the NeoNest, a low-cost infant warmer to help Ugandan ambulance drivers safely transport preterm infants to a hospital from rural areas.
Celebrating Alumni Weekend
Westchester welcomed alumni from several decades for Alumni Weekend events in May 2024. Some notable reunions included the Class of 1984 celebrating its 40th reunion and the Class of 2004 celebrating its 20th reunion. Alumni from all class years were invited to participate in the W-Day 5K and for an evening reception and tour of the campus. Alumni who returned from all over the world enjoyed seeing the new playground and other campus updates.
A.B. and Grace
invited the Class of 1984 and spouses to their home to celebrate the 40th reunion milestone.
TOP: Members of the Class of 2004 gathered at the Toast and Tours event to reconnect with faculty members and see the campus changes from the past 20 years.
Dynasty Rui ‘20 sang Chinese pop songs, including one she wrote about her experience at Westchester, in an assembly during the International Culture Festival.
Cleveland Armentrout ’23 talked to Lower School students during their January Community Meeting about the character word of the month, RESPONSIBILITY. He shared his responsibilities at the Air Force Academy, including that Westchester had helped him prepare well for the many responsibilities he has as a college student and cadet.
Alumni shared insights and feedback during a lunch with Mrs. Mary Keever, head of school, during Homecoming in January. The group also enjoyed seeing the new playground.
ABOVE:
Fulton Henley ’84
#WCDSCommunity
Wildcats show up, serve and have fun together
Westchester Loves Teachers
WAPA parent volunteers help spread appreciation and cheer to faculty and staff members during national Teacher Appreciation Week. Volunteers delivered coffee and doughnuts to classrooms one morning in early “Maycember.”
Parents Make It Possible
WCDS parent Brie Reeder helps Emma Reese Ballance ’31 with makeup backstage before a performance of “Seussical Jr.”
Jamie Lynn Cumby, Sara Yowell and Sherman Covington assist students and teachers in organizing supplies for the C.A.R.E.S. Crews Thanksgiving service projects.
Parent Volunteers Recognized
WCDS awarded the Margaret Kemper Bonney Volunteer Award to two parent volunteers who serve the school community selflessly. Megan Vogler, volunteer extraordinaire with athletics and the Booster Club, and Tara Elliott, president of Westchester All Parents Association (WAPA), were recognized during the end-of-year ceremonies.
The Ponce-Radziewicz family enjoys getting to know other Westchester families during WAPA night at the High Point Rockers game.
Special Events
Wildcats, thank you for making our school community a special place to learn, teach and raise a family. Your involvement makes all the difference!
W-Day 5K
“The
Grandparents Day
Hobey”
What You about Westchester LOVE
Join us in celebrating the ways your financial support leads to Westchester’s ability to provide educational experiences that inspire students to pursue lifelong learning and personal excellence.
2023–2024 Giving Snapshot*
Annual Fund Unrestricted
$172,042
Annual Fund Restricted
$92,873 (Athletic = $27,578, Other = $65,295)
Special Gifts: Chuck’s Fund
$105,850
*Gifts to Westchester Forward will be published in a separate document at its conclusion.
100% of the faculty, staff and Board of Trustees participate in annual giving by supporting the Westchester Fund
Westchester Country Day School Annual Fund Donors
Mens Sana in Corpore Sano Society
$50,000+
Anonymous
Leadership Society
$25,000 – $49,999
Mrs. Elizabeth Wilson Calabrese ’85 and Mr. James M. Calabrese
T. Austin Finch Foundation
Head of School Society
$10,000 - $24,999
Mr. David S. Congdon ’74 and Mrs. Helen Congdon
Dr. and Mrs. Nido R. Qubein
1967 Founders’ Society
$5,000 – $9,999
Mr. James H. Collins ’90 and Mrs. Alison J. Collins
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Harris
The McMichael Family Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Paul H. Brigman III
Mr. and Mrs. William C. Heard III
Wildcat Society
$2,500 – $4,999
Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. Blair
Mr. Frank Brooks and Mr. Brad Newton
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Hoffman
Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan J. McDowell
Mr. Matt H. Nowell Jr.
Dr. and Mrs. Michael E. O’Keeffe
Drs. Vamsee P. and Lakshmi P. Paruchuri
Mr. and Mrs. Dean S. Stern
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Van Dessel
Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy F. Williams
Trustees’ Society
$1,000 – $2,499
ABCO South Electrical Construction and Design
Mr. and Mrs. Johnny S. Beck Sr.
Mr. Joe M. Brinson III ’94 and Mrs. Claire G. Brinson
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Carr
Mr. and Mrs. Robert G. Culp IV
Ms. Shirley Emerson
Mr. and Mrs. Brian P. Hunsberger
Mr. Ernest T. Koontz Jr.
Drs. Tri H. and Kristy B. Le
Mr. Marc Engle and Dr. Anita McCauley
Mr. and Mrs. Douglas R. Muir
Mr. and Mrs. Surendra Paruchuri
Mr. and Mrs. David Raper
Mr. and Mrs. Paul R. Riggan
Mr. Leon L. Rives II
Mr. Donald K. Setliff ’72 and Mrs. Joy C. Setliff
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy E. Simpson
Mr. Robert C. Slane ’74
Mr. Scott N. Philbrook and Mrs. Emily L. Spivey
Mr. and Mrs. Stuart A. Todd
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen S. Tucker
Mr. and Mrs. James B. Varner Sr.
Dr. James Walter
Blue and White Club
$500 – $999
Mr. Edward Caddy
Ms. Bright Carter
Mr. and Mrs. John Causey
Mr. and Mrs. Frederick M. Councill
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Covington
Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Cranford
Mr. Tom Craycroft
Ms. Dorie Crowe
Mr. and Mrs. Vinsen Faris
Mr. Eric R. Grimes
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Harrell
Mrs. Jane Everhart Hedrick ’92 and Mr. Bradley D. Hedrick
Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Jones
Dr. Jothi Kumar
Mr. and Mrs. David L. Littlefield
Mr. and Mrs. Jason E. Nall
Ms. Marilyn Congdon Nowell ’01
Dr. and Mrs. Daniel A. Pierce
Mr. and Mrs. David S. Rowe
Mr. and Mrs. Donald A. Ruggery Jr.
Mrs. Deena Qubein Samuel ’01 and Dr. Bradley A. Samuel
Mr. and Mrs. James D. Scott
Mr. and Mrs. Erik M. Singer
Mr. and Mrs. Mark F. Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Melvin G. Todd
Mr. Johnny S. Beck Jr. and Mrs. Shannon M. Todd
Mr. and Mrs. Alan Turner
Mr. and Mrs. Nihar N. Upadhyaya
Mr. Jason D. Walker ’02
Mr. and Mrs. Seth M. Yowell
Westchester Club
$250 – $499
Mr. and Mrs. James Adams
Mr. and Mrs. Keith Albert
Mr. and Mrs. S. C. Argo
Mr. and Mrs. John C. Atkinson
Ms. Emma I. Bryson
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Case
Mr. James F. Clodfelter
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Cockrum
Mr. and Mrs. Jay D. Couch Jr.
Mrs. Kristin Sams Crowe ’01 and Mr. John W. Crowe
Drs. Dekarlos M. and Tasha B. Dial
Mr. and Mrs. Gart Evans
Mr. and Mrs. William S. Fagg III
Mrs. Lindsay Hall
Miss Mary L. Huntley
Mr. and Mrs. Philip T. Johnson
Mr. and Mrs. Wesley R. Keever
Mrs. Anita R. Klein
Ms. Amanda Lucas
Mr. Christopher S. Martin and Mrs. Xuan Trang T. Nguyen
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Moye
Ms. Charlotte Newman
Ms. Debb Saie
Mr. and Mrs. Adam J. Schwartz
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Thompson
Mrs. Ashley Phelps Timberlake ’90 and Mr. Daniel Timberlake
Mr. and Mrs. Chris R. Vogler
Ms. Catherine T. York ’14
Family Club
Up to $249
Anonymous
Ms. Cierra A. Gaddis
Mrs. Judy Thomas Adams ’89 and Mr. Jeffery R. Adams
Mr. and Mrs. John W. Albert
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew F. Altamura
Mr. and Mrs. Allen W. Andrews
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick T. Ashburn
Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan D. Ashley
Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin C. Bailess
Ms. Wilma Bailess
Ms. Savannah Ball
Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy D. Bayne Jr.
Ms. Nicole Beaulieu
Mr. Steven T. Beck ’07 and Mrs. Chelsey Beck
Dr. and Mrs. John M. Beck
Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Boles
Dr. Mark T. Braun and Mrs. Lisa M. Meyer-Braun
Mr. Derick and Dr. Sierra Burgin
Mr. and Mrs. Edward V. Byrne Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Michael D. Caputa
Mr. and Mrs. Jason D. Carey
Ms. Lindsey B. Carroll
Ms. Trisha Caviness
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Conrad
Ms. Christiana H. Conrad ’09
Ms. Ashley Currence
Mr. and Mrs. Gene A. Denmark
Mr. Andrew T. DiMattia
Ms. Lynn Dodge
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry P. Driver Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Renarde Earl
Mr. and Mrs. J.J. Eftink
Mr. George W. and Dr. Sadie L. Elder
Ms. Monica Elliott
Ms. Alicia Emerson
Mr. Kirk Epting
Mrs. Suzie Farabow
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Fields
Mr. Ryan Graver and Mrs. Sarah Flores
Dr. Diana I. Garcia
Mr. and Mrs. David M. Gibbs
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph S. Hammond
Mr. and Mrs. Dan Hauser
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Herman
Mr. and Mrs. Leigh M. Hesling
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel L. Hobbs
Mrs. Laurie Beck Hogan ’02 and Mr. Andrew W. Hogan
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Holmes
Mr. and Mrs. Charles J. Horney
Ms. Yawei Huang
Mr. and Mrs. John B. Hughes
Ms. Rhonda Hunt
Mr. and Mrs. Lane Ingram
Dr. Brandi Jacques
Mr. and Mrs. Dustin T. Jennings
Mr. Raymond Jones
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Kiss
Ms. Debra Kodidek
Mrs. Elizabeth Padgett Kremer ’97 and Mr. Paul M. Kremer
Mr. and Mrs. Sione Langi
Mr. and Mrs. Ryan P. Lavelle
Mr. and Mrs. James R. Lee
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Linn
Mrs. Laurie Long ’72
Dr. Xi Luo and Mrs. Jin Wang
Ms. Mary E. Lyles ’96
Ms. Debbie Lyon ’73
Mr. and Mrs. Corey Mackall
Mr. Eduard Volynets and Mrs. Irina Maltseva
Mr. and Mrs. Keith K. Marsh
Miss Nancy Martin
Ms. Ellen T. McEnaney
Mr. and Mrs. Ryan McNeill
Mr. and Mrs. Brian Meixner
Mr. and Mrs. Elmer A. Melgar
Dr. and Mrs. David R. Mercadante
Mr. Kenneth Mickey and Dr. Michele Jedlica
Mr. William D. Moore III ’06 and Mrs. Lyall K. Moore
Mr. and Mrs. Chris Moore
Mr. Frank Morelli and Ms. Alexandra Frey
Mr. Jim F. Morgan
Ms. Danna Myers
Tuxedo Park Homeowners Asociation
Mr. and Mrs. Brook A. Patterson
Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy D. Pendley
Mr. and Mrs. William A. Pope III
Dr. Fonda Quick
Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Raper
Mr. and Mrs. John S. Ratterree
Mr. and Mrs. James C. Reid
Ms. Claire Reinthaler
Ms. Emma K. Ruggery
Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Sams
Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Santomieri
Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Saxon
Mrs. Ann Scott
Ms. Marla H. Seelig
Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Seip-Bayes
Dr. and Mrs. McKennon Shea
Mr. and Mrs. Mark S. Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Sterling Smith Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Jason Staton
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Stephenson
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Sullens
Mr. Stefaan Temperman and Mrs. Arabella Huys
Mr. and Mrs. James Thompson
Mr. and Mrs. Arnold J. Tomes
Mr. and Mrs. Greg T. Tuggle
Mr. and Mrs. James M. Umstead
Mrs. Sheridan van Wagenberg
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Vaughan
Mr. and Mrs. James I. Watlington
Mr. and Mrs. Bryan E. Weiss
Mr. and Mrs. Eric N. Welder
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wilbert
Mr. and Mrs. Philip M. Winstead Jr.
Ms. Darlene Wyatt
Gifts in Kind
Branch Home Designs LLC
Colonial LLC
Grandparents Honor Roll
Mr. and Mrs. James Adams
Mr. and Mrs. Keith Albert
Ms. Wilma Bailess
Dr. and Mrs. John M. Beck
Mr. and Mrs. Joe M. Brinson Jr.
Ms. Emma Bryson
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Case
Mr. David S. Congdon ’74 and Mrs. Helen Congdon
Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Cranford
Mr. Tom Craycroft
Ms. Dorie Crowe
Ms. Lynn Dodge
Mr. and Mrs. Vinsen Faris
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Harris
Mrs. Amy Heybrock
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Hoffman
Ms. Mary E. Lyles
Ms. Danna Myers
Dr. and Mrs. Nido R. Qubein
Mr. and Mrs. David Raper
Mr. and Mrs. John S. Ratterree
Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Sams
Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Saxon
Mrs. Ann Scott
Mr. and Mrs. Mark S. Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Thompson
Mrs. Sheridan van Wagenberg
Mr. and Mrs. James I. Watlington
Special Gifts
Chuck’s Fund
Mr. and Mrs. Craig A. Adolff
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew F. Altamura
Mr. and Mrs. Terry Andrews
Mr. and Mrs. S. C. Argo
Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin C. Bailess
Mr. and Mrs. Michael R. Beaver
Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. Blair
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher R. Bradley
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel L. Briggs
Mr. and Mrs. Paul H. Brigman III
Mr. Joe M. Brinson III ’94 and Mrs. Claire G. Brinson
Mrs. Elizabeth Wilson Calabrese ’85 and Mr. James M. Calabrese
Ms. Bright Carter
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff G. Christiansen
Dr. Christine R. Clodfelter
Mr. James F. Clodfelter
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Cockrum
Mr. James H. Collins ’90 and Mrs. Alison J. Collins
Mr. Larry Connor
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Conrad
Mrs. Kristin Sams Crowe ’01 and Mr. John W. Crowe
Mr. and Mrs. Robert R. Culler Jr.
Mr. Andrew W. Cumby ’97 and Mrs. Donna Cumby
Mr. and Mrs. William B. Davis Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Brian Davis
Mr. William B. Davis III ’12 and Mrs. Lauren Davis
Drs. Dekarlos M. and Tasha B. Dial
Mr. and Mrs. J.J. Eftink
Mr. George W. and Dr. Sadie L. Elder
Mr. and Mrs. Joshua L. English
Mr. and Mrs. David M. Gibbs
Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Gibson
Mrs. Carol J. Hamblet
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Harrell
Mr. and Mrs. Lee C. Hawley
Mrs. Lauren Rice Heald ’02 and Mr. Matthew Heald
Mr. and Mrs. William C. Heard III
Mr. Joe Hubay
Mr. and Mrs. Brian P. Hunsberger
Mr. Raymond Jones
Mrs. Molly Harris Keenan ’11 and Mr. Matthew Keenan
Mr. James R. Keever Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Wesley R. Keever
Mr. and Mrs. Shannon K. Kendrick
Drs. Tri H. and Kristy B. Le
Mr. and Mrs. William M. Lowe Jr.
Mrs. Emily Burris McCrary ’04 and Mr. Troy McCrary
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey L. McDowell
Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan J. McDowell
Mr. and Mrs. James P. Mills Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Moosmann
Drs. Michael and Brooke Mueller
Mr. and Mrs. Douglas R. Muir
Drs. Albert III and Jennifer Newsome
Mr. Ian Newton
Drs. Tjai M. and Sarah Nielsen
Ms. Marilyn Congdon Nowell ’01
Ms. Debby J. Noyes
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick H. Oglesby
Mr. and Mrs. Brook A. Patterson
Dr. and Mrs. Jason Pittman
Mr. Michael J. Radziewicz and Mrs. Jennifer Ponce
Ms. Molly K. Ragan ’11
Mrs. Lillian Ragan Lundquist ’09
Mr. and Mrs. David S. Rowe
Mr. and Mrs. Donald A. Ruggery Jr.
Mr. Alex M. Runyan and Mrs. Brandi M. Crumley
Mr. and Mrs. William A. Russell
Mr. and Mrs. Adam J. Schwartz
Mr. and Mrs. James D. Scott
Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Seip-Bayes
Dr. and Mrs. McKennon Shea
Mr. and Mrs. Erik M. Singer
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey H. Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Mark F. Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Sterling Smith Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Andy Strassell
Mrs. Ashley Phelps Timberlake ’90 and Mr. Daniel Timberlake
Mr. and Mrs. Melvin G. Todd
Mr. and Mrs. Alan Turner
Mr. and Mrs. James B. Varner Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ward
Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy F. Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Edward H. Williamson
Mr. Frederick E. Wilson IV ’11
Mr. and Mrs. Allen S. Young
Mr. and Mrs. Seth M. Yowell
Blue & White Gala 2023 Sponsors
Title
Ginny (’17) and Beau (’13)
Venue
B&H Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc.
Gold
Ms. Gloria Wilson
Mr. David S. Congdon ’74 and Mrs. Helen Congdon
High Point Jewelers & Fine Gifts
The Bill & Suzanne Lowe Family Foundation
Beverage
Hot Shots Distributing, Inc.
Silver
Friends of Westchester
Davis Furniture
The Tedder & Sledge Families
Honorarium
Mr. and Mrs. James Adams in honor of Lila Katherine Bailey
Mr. and Mrs. John R. Boxman in honor of David Morgan
Mr. and Mrs. Edward V. Byrne Jr. in honor of Coraleigh Byrne
Mr. George W. and Dr. Sadie L. Elder in honor of Emily Mercadante
Mr. and Mrs. Vinsen Faris in honor of all the faculty, staff, board, and volunteers of Westchester
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Fields in honor of Bob Harder
Mr. and Mrs. David M. Gibbs in honor of Carol Hamblet
Dr. Emily M. Mann in honor of Owen & Archer Mann and Westchester faculty
Ms. Danna Myers in honor of Owen & Archer Mann
Dr. and Mrs. Daniel A. Pierce in honor of Sutton Pierce
Mr. and Mrs. John S. Ratterree in honor of Sutton Scott
Mr. Robert C. Slane ’74 in honor of the Class of 1974
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Thompson in honor of Elliott & Emory Smith
Mrs. Sheridan van Wagenberg in honor of Albert & Katherine Newsome
Ms. Marilyn Congdon Nowell ’01
Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Altamura LLP
Pinnacle Bank
Bronze
Newsome Dentistry
Homelegance
Mr. and Mrs. Royster Tucker
Mr. and Mrs. Seth Yowell
Jones & Peacock Insurance
Vann York Auto Group
Chase Portaro ’20, Daniel Goldman ’12, Madison Rogers-Goldman ’09
Colonial LLC
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Harrell
Otto & Moore Furniture
Wildcat Patron
GW Smith Lumber Co.
W-Day 5K 2024 Sponsors
Presenting
Blue Rock Pizza and Tap
Silver
The Ragan Girls
Colonial LLC
Sponsors
BSN Sports
Carolina Red Cafe
Hot Shots Distributing Inc.
Sir Speedy
WAPA
Westchester Booster Club
US Foods
Chesney Schwartz and Family
Memoriam
Mrs. Elizabeth Wilson Calabrese ’85 and Mr. James M. Calabrese in memory of Gloria Wilson
Mr. and Mrs. Michael D. Caputa in memory of Judy Tomlinson
Mr. and Mrs. Ken Haught in memory of Andrew Meredith
Mrs. Elizabeth Padgett Kremer ’97 and Mr. Paul Kremer in memory of Everett Benton Padgett Jr.
Mrs. Laurie Long ’72 in memory of Don Setliff
Ms. Nancy Martin in memory of Johannes Klein
Mr. and Mrs. James P. Mills Sr. in memory of Ed Lowry
Mr. Scott N. Philbrook and Mrs. Emily L. Spivey in memory of Nancy Spivey
Ms. Claire Reinthaler in memory of Johannes Klein
Mr. and Mrs. James D. Scott in memory of Johannes Klein
Tuxedo Park Homeowners Asociation in memory of Don Setliff
SCRAPBOOK
Wildcats Love to Learn!
3. Students from the Class of 2034 explore activity tables during the Mandarin Department’s Lunar New Year Celebration.
4. WCDS alumna Emma Engle, Class of 2023, led a group of students in an Irish dancing demonstration during the International Culture Festival.
1. The Upper School Environmental Science class led Earth Day activities in the pre-K and kindergarten classrooms.
2. Students and faculty enjoyed viewing the 2024 solar eclipse on a beautiful spring day on the WCDS campus. 5 6
5. The Upper School Marine Biology class took a research expedition to the North Carolina coast, where students conducted experiments for independent research projects.
6. This group from the Class of 2031 tallied a big score with their special message on Scrabble Day.
