Winter 2008 09 | windows magazine

Westminster Windows is a publication of Westminster Schools of Augusta.

Westminster Schools of Augusta 3067 Wheeler Road Augusta, Georgia 30909 706-731-7780 publications@wsa.net

Westminster Window s Winter 2008-09

contents

Steve O’Neil Headmaster

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A Wo rd F r o m

Craig Johnson Upper School Principal

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Ta l k i n g W i t h S t e ve O’N e i l

Sue Ames Day School Principal

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Westminster T hanks J ohn Murray

Ray Wans Chief Financial Officer

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A l u m n a A wa rd e d F u l b r i g h t

Carrie Brigham Development Director

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S c h o o l N e w s

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F i n e A r t s N e w s

Aimee Lynch Admissions Director Mike Freace Athletics Director Beth Gore Communications Coordinator Westminster Windows Editor Erin Davis, Lynch 21 Design Design and Layout Westminster Windows is published as a service to our alumni, families, and friends.

Please submit questions, comments, or news items to bgore@wsa.net.

Cover: Day School Christmas musicals: Third graders presented an adaptation of “A Christmas Carol.”

t h e H e a d m a s t e r

10 S t u d e n t S p o t l i g h t s 10 F a c u l t y S p o t l i g h t s 11 F a l l S p o r t s Wr a p -U p 13 D e ve l o p m e n t

and

Alumni

Photos on page: (Background Image) Homecoming soccer (Top) Steve O’Neil atop Mt. Meru (Middle) Jamison Holgate self-portrait (Bottom) WSA friends at Rhoden-Smith wedding

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A Word From the Headmaster Dear Friends, I arrived at Westminster in July 2008 and one of my first tasks was to unpack boxes and decorate walls in my new office. I identified a wall where alumni photos would be hung, and today that wall has photos of the 25 Westminster graduating classes. I enjoy looking at those photos and know there’s an important Westminster story behind each student. I’ve heard alumni tell their stories, and they often center on the impact of Westminster’s faculty. These are excerpts written to faculty from different pieces of alumni correspondence.

• Thank you for all that you taught me at Westminster…you definitely had the most impact on my life.

• The discipline and passion you instilled in your students will remain with me for the rest of my life…you inspired me to do my best.

• I admire your dedication to your students.

I also admire Westminster’s faculty and am reminded of the Apostle Paul’s words to the church at Philippi, “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel.” Westminster’s faculty, more than ever, are not just providing an excellent education, they are partnering in the gospel as they make an eternal impact on students’ lives.

Although Westminster’s history is important and noteworthy, I’m equally enthusiastic about my work this school year with the school community in developing a strategic plan -- a clearly articulated vision of Westminster’s future along with a roadmap on how to get there. This is an exciting opportunity to further develop Westminster and to even more purposefully impact student lives for Jesus Christ. I look forward to hearing future alumni (our current and future students) testify to God’s work in their lives as a result of having experienced a Westminster education, Christ-centered to the core.

Warm regards,

Steve O’Neil Headmaster

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Ta l k i n g W i t h S t e v e O ’ N e i l Westminster’s new headmaster moved to Augusta in July with wife Denae and their children, Anna (8th grade), Benj (5th grade), and Tommy (2nd grade). Steve left a position as head of Haven of Peace Academy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, before joining Westminster as our headmaster.

Following are excerpts from a conversation with Steve.

What took you to Africa and why did you leave?

It was cumulative. Wheaton has a student program called Human Needs and Global Resources (HNGR, pronounced “hunger”). I already had a real love for missions and justice and what HNGR did – it was holistic Christian work in an international context, where the spiritual and physical needs of people were addressed.

Before college, I had been exposed to a number of international students and missionaries. Then in college I had to take a lot of course work in social sciences – political science, anthropology, sociology, third world development, cross cultural issues. All of this led me to my HNGR internship in Niger. My project was to do historical research for SIM, which they used to evaluate their educational programs. My time in Niger was a formative experience.

Denae participated in the same HNGR program, but worked with the Mayan Indians in the Yucatan. Denae and I both realized a willingness to live and work abroad if the Lord called us.

We felt God had brought us together because of that shared interest and believed God would one day want to use us abroad but didn’t know when.

We married after college, and I started my teaching career. There was rarely a year we didn’t ask if this was the time God wanted to send us abroad.

One of the early schools where I taught was a Jesuit high school in Colorado.

This was an academically challenging school that offered me several opportunities for student interaction as well as getting my feet wet in leadership roles. I enjoyed these opportunities and people encouraged me to pursue administration. The school sponsored me to go to graduate school for school administration.

Then I found an administrative position at Minnehaha Academy in Minneapolis. I served as a principal and I would have a different theme each year for the students, much like Westminster’s current LOUD theme. I

Steve, Tommy, Denae, Anna, Benj

Haven of Peace Academy (HOPAC)

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was challenging the students to live lives of difference – to make a difference in the world. One year it was to remember the poor; one year, leaving a legacy; one year, get off the fence. I was challenging the school community and the students to be outwardly focused.

God started pricking my heart, “O’Neil, are you getting off the fence? Are you leaving a legacy? Are you remembering the poor?” I had to look in the mirror and ask myself what I was doing.

Was I responding the same way I was challenging students and faculty?

All this made me look abroad to see what opportunities were there. Denae allowed me to focus on Africa. Two years before leaving, my prayer had been, “God, what are the greatest needs of the world? God, what are the greatest passions, desires, and gifts you have given me. And help me see where these two things intersect.” Though I was open to any work the Lord would call me to, eventually I felt God had given me skills with education and administration, so I started looking at international Christian schools. I found Haven of Peace Academy had an opening for their director, which is what international schools call a headmaster.

They hired me.

We were missionaries with Africa Inland Mission serving at Haven of Peace Academy. HOPAC is not an AIM school, that was just where we served and who our sending agency was. AIM has three categories for missionaries: short-term (up to one year), extended short-term (one to three years), or career.

We raised support and went for three years. Our time there was wonderful and our lives were very rewarding.

As the three-year mark approached, we prayed and asked if we were to only be short-term missionaries or if we were to make it our career. In our hearts we felt the answer was to return to the U.S.

What are some of the strengths you appreciate about Westminster?

Westminster’s greatest strength is its people. We have an exceptional faculty, staff, and administration. I want to underscore the faculty. The commitment and dedication of the faculty and the years of service and sense of purpose – I am very impressed.

An aerial view of HOPAC

Then we were able to ask, “God, where would you have us go?”

Why come to Augusta and to Westminster?

Also, the parents and students are a great strength. I’m impressed with our students and the parents who support Westminster. And I couldn’t work with a better board of trustees. They are highly committed to Westminster’s success.

I was absolutely certain I had to be at a Christian school because it’s a calling.

I wanted to be at a Christian school that held Jesus Christ high, was Christcentered, had a biblical world view, and didn’t compromise the gospel. But at the same time, I wanted a school committed to excellence in all things, particularly academics.

Another thing that drew me to Westminster was that I was interested in a school that was evangelical and had a commitment to service (or justice or outward focus). I looked all over the U.S. I heard about Westminster and it resonated with me – its mission, values, people, and the relationship to First Presbyterian Church. Some things in particular were that academics were strong, the school’s commitment to the gospel, and the open enrollment policy (it’s evangelical and outward focused).

I read the letter from First Presbyterian Session to Westminster from a few years ago in which the session challenged Westminster around the issues of justice and mercy and what that should look like. For me, the real tipping point in terms of that commitment was that the school is Christ-centered and biblical and has a commitment to what the session called a missional focus.

Steve leaving Misali.

Then there is Westminster’s commitment to providing a truly Christ-centered education. We’re not ashamed that we want Jesus Christ over every aspect of Westminster. This is talked about freely – how Jesus Christ can have a greater presence and how we can elevate him higher.

My interest is in expanding and improving the Upper School facilities.

I desire to see an expansion of fine arts at Westminster. I desire to see a greater number of students have access to our education. The major barriers are our facilities and financial aid. I have a desire to see Westminster professionally develop the faculty and staff. I’d like to have funding available and make it possible for faculty to seek advanced degrees and attend conferences. I want to develop a culture of faculty development because the faculty need to model the concept of being lifelong learners to our students.

I want to develop our outward focus, to include exposure to global opportunities as well as our local service opportunities.

As I shared in my installation message, our goal should be three-pronged: a) we provide opportunities now for students to serve, b) we prepare our students to lead lives of service, and c) we steward an institution that is serving. We are blessed to be a blessing. How can we pass that blessing on to others? I want to see a deepening commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ and our biblical world view. Our mission talks about a biblical world view – what does that look like in every aspect of school life?

I want to explore what that means in how we relate to students and parents and how we grade or approach discipline issues. I want to see Christ permeate our entire school culture.

What are some goals you have for Westminster?

My goals right now have to be shortterm because we’re just now developing the long-range plan, and that plan will dictate what our long-range goals are.

This plan is about envisioning what Westminster will look like in 2020, then creating a three-year strategic plan that will take us toward that vision.

Steve in Ngalawa.

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Westminster Thanks John Murray

By Katie Ames (’04) For those who have grown up at Westminster the soccer field is the center of a variety of different memories. Sliding down the hill to the soccer field during Fall Connection. Racing across it during Field Day. Running four and a half laps each spring to complete a mile for the Presidential Fitness Test.

(Eating the honeysuckle that grew beside the field instead of running those laps.) And finally, in middle and high school, playing soccer on the field. With such an abundance of memories and emotions associated with the field, it is intriguing to realize that all the work and time that went into creating this field was due solely to the foresight and dedication of one man.

Obviously, Mr. Baggs and the rest of the board accepted his generous offer, and shortly afterwards Mr. Murray began construction of the field. But first, to learn how to build the field, he consulted the groundskeeper at The Augusta National about grass, irrigation, and maintenance. With this knowledge he promptly set out to design the field; he bulldozed what was then a hill to flatten the area, installed a Toro sprinkler system for irrigation, planted Bermuda grass, and then marked off the dimensions for the new field. For the next several years - as long as his sons attended Westminster - he was solely responsible for maintaining the field.

In 1977, when Westminster Schools of Augusta was just five years old, John L. Murray called board member Hunter Baggs Jr. and told him he wanted to help the new school.

When they met for lunch at the Town Tavern, Mr. Baggs was surprised at all John Murray wanted to do.

Thirty years and four state soccer championships later, Westminster still has one of the best soccer fields in the conference. And students continue to take pride and enjoyment in the field. Junior defender Aaron Harris said, “That [soccer] is about half of my school experience right there.”

“I want to build you a soccer field,” Mr. Baggs recalls Mr. Murray saying. Murray’s two sons were at Westminster and wanted to play soccer. He thought that the best way to ensure that his sons were able to play soccer at Westminster would be to build them a soccer field. By the end of the conversation, Mr. Murray had volunteered to not only personally construct the soccer field, but also to maintain it for as long as necessary.

In honor of his vision Westminster Schools held its first annual John L. Murray Jr. Day in the fall. The day was celebrated with a reception for Mr. Murray before the first home soccer game of the season. The soccer team honored him by soundly beating John Milledge 3-0.

Former board member Hunter Baggs Jr. enjoys the game with John and Esther Murray.

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A l u m n a A wa r d e d F u l b r i g h t Kara Downey (‘03) recently was awarded a Fulbright Grant to study democracy in the developing Kyrgyz Republic in the former USSR. The Fulbright Program was established in 1946 under legislation introduced by Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas. The program is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the United States Department of State.

Approximately 286,500 scholars (108,160 from the US and 178,340 from other countries), have participated in the program. The Fulbright Program awards approximately 7,000 new grants annually.

Currently, the Fulbright Program operates in over 155 countries. Following is a letter from Kara.

Kara (on right) with two new friends.

Hello everyone!

If someone had asked me where I thought I’d be five years after graduating high school, I’m not sure what I would have answered. Maybe something about theater. Or writing.

I’m not exactly sure. I am sure that if someone had suggested I’d be recovering from jet-lag after a 10-month stint in Russia while preparing to take off again for the Kyrgyz Republic, I’d have been skeptical. And eager for proof that this “Kyrgyzstan” place actually existed.

But that is, in fact, how things have turned out (those who suspect I’m making up a ‘stan can allay their fears by checking the internet). I never could have predicted this chain of events, but it’s all worked out for the best. In

2007 I graduated summa cum laude from Northwestern University with degrees in theater and political science.

I’d started out as a theater major, and stumbled across political science only by accident (I never thought I’d be thankful for elective requirements).

I became fascinated by the politics of developing countries, and spent the summer before my senior year studying public health in China, and fall of senior year studying development in Uganda. My time abroad made me realize that I love traveling and researching and that I wanted to pursue a career in academia. This is why majoring in theater is a good idea: when you tell your parents that you’ve had a change of heart, and that you’re going to spend large chunks of time in countries they’ve never heard of and will probably still be a student when you’re 30...they’re still thrilled by the change.

The trip to Russia started out as a joke. Most of the graduate school deadlines had passed while I was in Uganda, so I knew I had to take at least a year off. I’d become very interested in Central Asia and wanted to apply for a Fulbright Grant to go to Kyrgyzstan. For those who don’t know, the Fulbright Program is run by the State Department and allows recent college graduates to spend a year abroad studying or doing research. There are parallel programs for graduate students and professors to research and teach abroad, and for foreign students to visit the US.

The problem was that people in Kyrgyzstan speak Russian or Kyrgyz, and I didn’t speak either one. A friend who’d studied abroad in Russia and wanted to return to teach English suggested that I tag along, since I needed to learn Russian and wasn’t really doing anything else. We laughed about it at first. Then laughed less.

And then stepped off a plane in Irkutsk, a fairly large Siberian city near the shores of Lake Baikal. Working as a full-time teacher was one of the most

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Kara with her host and extended family.

demanding things I’ve ever done, but the students were absolutely fantastic.

I’m lucky enough to still be in touch with some of them.

So that’s where I’ve been. Lots of unexpected twists, but I wouldn’t change a thing. As for where I’m going, well, as I said, in mid-August I’m off to Kyrgyzstan, where I’ll spend the year studying Russian and researching democracy promotion. The Kyrgyz Republic, which in 1991 declared independence from the USSR, has cultivated a reputation as an “island of democracy” in Central Asia.

Unfortunately, the island seems to be sinking. Corruption is a serious problem; a few well-connected oligarchs are growing rich while the country’s overall living standards decline. A number of NGOs (non-governmental organizations...think non-profits like Habitat for Humanity) are working to promote democracy and good governance there by helping activists, educating the public, and calling international attention to misbehavior on the part of the Kyrgyz government.

However, although working with foreign NGOs can provide a number of benefits to activists, it also comes with risks. Many Kyrgyz citizens don’t trust foreign NGOs, or the politicians affiliated with them. Rather, these groups seem like thinly veiled attempts by foreign countries to meddle in Kyrgyz politics. The skeptics have (continued on page 19)

School News National Honor Society Induction

This fall, Westminster added 16 members to of members’ services last year. Among them were Heritage our chapter of the National Honor Society at the annual Academy, Augusta Urban Ministries, the Ronald McDonald induction service. NHS is House, Golden Harvest Food open to juniors and seniors Bank, the Salvation Army, who maintain and encourage and the CSRA Humane high standards of scholarship, Society. Many students service, leadership, and volunteered in their church character. nurseries. Working in the

New members Day School as a peer tutor or include seniors Jonathan a PreK assistant, volunteering for the Westminster Sports Lamberts, Rob Thompson, and Diana Pak. Also Academy, and working with inducted were juniors the Unity Prefect for Movie Michael Bone, Alyssa Night were other venues Cameron, Aaron Harris, NHS members chose to serve Cassie Hartmann, Emily Hood, Robert MacDonell, Will those who will one day follow in their footsteps.

McCartney, Jim McPhail, Emily Mecredy, McCamy Pruitt, In addition, last year the chapter raised money to Katelyn Rimer, Drew Speese, and Sarah Walters. contribute to Heifer International. This is an organization

Since one of the four criteria for membership in which operates around the world to provide sustainable food NHS is service, Westminster’s chapter advisor Mary Weidman sources that will eventually provide economic resources to was proud to note that members logged 632 hours of service help raise the standard of living in these communities. last school year to our school, area churches, and the local community. Thirty-nine organizations were recipients AP Exam Success

Last spring all Westminster AP students were required to take the national exam administered by The College Board.

National Beta Club Perfect scores (5) were earned by all AP Chemistry students Induction and all AP Latin Literature students. Fours or fives were earned

Twenty-seven Westminster Preparatory students

by AP Calculus AB students and AP Latin Vergil students. were added to our local chapter of the National Senior Congratulations, students and teachers.

Beta Club. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors who

The following students (including several 2008 maintain the required grade point average are eligible graduates) have earned AP Scholar awards in recognition of for membership. This years inductees were Allison their exceptional achievement on AP exams.

Blanchard, Michael Bone, Garrett Brandenburg,

AP Scholar – granted to students who receive grades Charles Cates, Grace Halverson, Isaac Halverson, of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams: Nadine Bassali, Emily Harless, Jamison Holgate, Emily Hood, Megan Casey Boutwell, Natalie Echols, Harrison Fisher, Mal McGahee, Jim McPhail, Josh Nichols, Chandler Lawrence, Bradley Newton, Diana Pak, Jenny Reichl, Norris, Dean Rhoden, Katelyn Rimer, Heather Rivers, Allison Sowell, and Stephanie Zimmerman.

David Robeson, Blair Robillard, Heath Robinson,

AP Scholar with Honor – granted to students who Rebecca Shine, Maggie Snyder, Meagan Snyder, Drew receive an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken Speese, Eric Speese, Charlotte Thornton, Natalie and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams: Walters, and Jordan Wolfgram.

Allie Blalock, Garrett Durkee, Jonathan Lamberts, Josh Merriman, Caroline Mullins, Lauren Powell, Ryan Walters, and Becca Wiggins.

National Merit

AP Scholar with Distinction – granted to students Honorees who receive an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP exams

Jonathan Lamberts and Becca Wiggins have taken and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams: been named semifinalists in the 2009 National Merit Caroline Ames, Ginny Boone, Clark Boutwell, Yanina scholarship program. Commended students in the 2009 Breakiron, Emily Corbin, Kathryn MacDonell, Drew program are Christopher Brannen, Josh Merriman, Meloan, Maxwell Mitchell, Lauren Snyder, and Tyler Vines.

Caroline Mullins, and Morgan Webb.

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Fine Arts News Debate 2008-09

This year’s debate team had a good showing in tournaments. Led by debate adviser Craig Johnson, team members earned individual speaker awards and team awards. Team members are: Alexandra Acree, Davis Chapman, Mary Elizabeth Goodell, Jay Hartmann, Isaac Halverson, Mal Lawrence, Jep McNair, Brad Pond, David Robeson, Gary Smith, Paul Smith, Haleigh Swierski, Becca Thompson, Rodney Wendt, Lindsay Williamson, Will Williamson, and Jordan Wolfgram.

The Wake Forest Early Bird Tournament hosts many teams from across the country and we attend this tournament as a good warm-up for learning the new resolution. At the Warner Robins GISA Debate Tournament, the novice team of Mary Elizabeth Goodell and Becca Thompson were ranked as semifinalists. Becca Thompson was also named the 4th place Novice Speaker.

Congratulations, debaters!

This fall Westminster hosted the 14th Annual Westminster Debate Tournament at the Upper School campus. Five GISA schools sent 18 teams of debaters (novice and varsity) to debate this year’s alternative energy topic. Congratulations to the 3rd Place Novice team of Will Williamson and Davis Chapman and the 4th Place Novice team of Jep McNair and Mary Elizabeth Goodell. Westminster debaters also earned several speaker

6th grade art class action-paints in the style of Jackson Pollock.

awards: Mary Elizabeth Goodell (3rd Place Novice Speaker), Jay Hartmann (9th Place Varsity Speaker) and David Robeson (6th Place Varsity Speaker).

Special thanks to several Westminster debate alumni who returned to serve as judges: Michael Mecredy, 2004 State Champions Isaac Robeson and Ann Cantrell, Norm Baunchalk, Philip Catalano, Libby Bitting, and Drew Meloan.

At the Stratford Academy Debate, the team of Mal Lawrence and David Robeson placed 3rd in the varsity division. David Robeson earned 5th Place Varsity Speaker award.

NFL Membership and Award

Westminster Preparatory School has been granted chapter membership status in the National Forensic League (NFL). Founded in 1925, the NFL is a speech honorary society which is represented in 2,700 schools nationwide.

The league sponsors awards based upon participation and success in speech and debate events. Until 2008, Westminster had been an affiliate member in the NFL.

In addition to the honor of chapter member status, in September the NFL informed Westminster’s chapter it had earned the Leading Chapter Award in the Georgia Southern Peach District.

Out of over 2,900 member schools nationwide, Westminster is one of only 104 to be recognized in this manner.

Over the past 14 years Westminster

Jay Hartmann sculpts clay in art class.

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students have accumulated 308 degrees in the NFL. Congratulations to the many Westminster debaters who contributed to this achievement.

WSA Students Win Big at the Fair

Westminster students from PreK – 12th grade entered original art in this year’s Georgia-Carolina Exchange Club Fair. Students from schools and home schools around the CSRA entered work in the competition. Entries were displayed at the fair this fall.

Thanks to the talent God has given our students and the dedicated and inspiring instruction of WDS art teacher Mary Donnan Heppert and WPS art teacher Vivian Hornsby, Westminster students brought home 49 awards from the fair.

Performing Arts

Westminster’s drama class competed in GISA One Act competition successfully this fall. The group performed Bill Shakespeare’s Christmas Extravaganza and Traveling Freak Show and won Region competition, beating our local rivals. At State competition, Westminster was one of the highest performing teams and won a Superior rating.

The cast: Becca Wiggins, Maggie Salley, Becca Thompson, Mary Elizabeth Goodell, Elizabeth Gay, Kelly McGahee, Paul Smith, Jason Bailey, Ben Todd, and David Robeson.

Paul Owen and William Jewett coach drama and literary competitors at Westminster.

Elves in One Act: Becca Wiggins, Maggie Salley, and Paul Smith.

Sp o t l i g h t s S t u d e n t Sp o t l i g h t s

Westminster Preparatory freshman Ivey Herrington recently was featured in an Aiken Standard story because of her success at the Progressive Show Jumping Aiken Fall Classic. Ivey is a frequent participant on the PSJ circuit. At the Aiken Fall Classic, Ivey won the Pre-Children’s Equitation class and the 12-14 equitation class.

Congratulations to Caroline Mullins, named a Scholar Athlete for WJBF Channel 6 Augusta. The Scholar Athlete program recognizes the accomplishments of student athletes both in the classroom and in athletic competition.

Eighth grader Tyler Lewis won honorable mention in the annual East Central Georgia Regional Library “Young Adult Ghost Story Contest.” The library sponsors this annual writing contest to foster creative writing in teens while encouraging them to use the public library. You can read Tyler’s story, “Driven Justice,” in the Fine Arts section of the school Web site (in the menu section Student Work).

Fifth grader Jenna Cliatt was a semifinalist in the 2008 Savannah River Site Safety Art Contest. SRS sponsors the annual art contest to promote safety awareness at home, in schools, and in the community. All children in the CSRA are eligible to participate.

This past summer, 3rd grader Aubrey Reynolds participated in Olympic gymnastic coaching greats Bela and Martha Karolyi’s summer camp. The camp is available to aspiring gymnasts who wish to receive challenging, concentrated training.

The highlight for Aubrey was watching the 2008 U.S. Olympics gymnastics team practice their routines for Beijing.

F a c u l t y Sp o t l i g h t s

Mr. Randall Nichols currently serves as the foreign language department chairman and teaches Latin in the Upper School. In addition to serving as the AP Latin reader, Mr. Nichols also is in his third year serving as a referee for the Classical Outlook, a magazine published by the American Classical League. As a referee, he reads articles submitted for publication, makes suggestions for improvement, and makes comments about their suitability for publication.

Dr. Jane Blanchard is the English department chair and teaches several Prep School English classes. In addition, Dr. Blanchard serves as the editor of The Shepherd’s Voice, the magazine for The Church of the Good Shepherd. This fall Dr. Blanchard published two compositions with the Georgia Council of Teachers of English: an essay, “Forward, March: Starting School All Over Again,” in the newsletter Scribbles ‘n Bits and a review, “The Sonnet Reconsidered,” in the journal Connections.

In October, Dr. Blanchard also made three presentations in Virginia: “Evocative Milton, Promoter of Virtue and Value” and “Poetic Jousting, or, Reading Spenser” at the Mideast Regional Meeting of the Conference on Christianity and Literature at Bridgewater College and “The Spenserian Paradox of Intended Response” at the Southeastern Renaissance Conference at Mary Baldwin College and the American Shakespeare Center.

Congratulations to PE teacher and varsity boys’ basketball head coach Mark Tebbs for being awarded the GISA Distinguished Service Award. This award is given to those who have served in a private school setting for 25 years. During his 19 years at Westminster, Coach Tebbs has been recognized five times by either GISA region or state as Coach of the Year or All Star Coach. The Augusta Chronicle has twice named Coach Tebbs the CSRA Private School Coach of the Year. Also honored with the GISA Distinguished Service Award were four Day School teachers.

Third grade teacher Julia Joiner, 4th grade teacher Kathy Buurma, 5th grade teacher Barbara Volpitto, and art teacher Mary Donnan Heppert have blessed many Westminster students with their passion.

Upper School art teacher Vivian Hornsby recently showed two pieces of her own artwork. The Morris Museum of Art exhibited a show called “Eclectic Visions.” “Eclectic Visions” features artwork done by art educators in Richmond, Columbia, Aiken, and Edgefield Teachers honored by GISA for 25 years of teaching in private counties. Mrs. Hornsby’s pieces are a scroll print (a print made on schools: Mark Tebbs, Kathy Buurma, Julia Joiner, fabric) and a contemporary nature spice rack. and Mary Donnan Heppert.

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F a l l Sp o r t s W r ap - Up

By Mike Freace, Athletic Director Fall 2008 was an exciting season for WSA athletics characterized by strong athletic competition, high level community support and new offerings through our Sports Academy. The athletic department’s vision is to impact our student-athletes for God’s kingdom and impact our community for God’s kingdom through our student-athletes.

The Sports Academy grew this season by adding cheerleading, volleyball, and football to the already-established soccer and baseball programs. The response to each of these programs was phenomenal, with record numbers of young athletes participating in the fall Academy. The Academy football team participated in the Richmond County Recreation Department league and was highly successful both on and off the field. The Academy volleyball team, made up of junior varsity level players, competed against other local schools. The cheerleading Academy gave a halftime performance during the Tip-Off basketball tournament in November. We look forward to seeing how each of these programs will impact the future of WSA athletics as the Academy seeks to build up strong Wildcat athletes.

In interscholastic competition, five teams were in action, including varsity and middle school soccer, middle school cross country, varsity and middle school cheerleading.

Boy’s varsity soccer finished the season 15-3-2 and ranked #3 in the state. During preseason, the boys had expressed their desire to become a “band of brothers.”

Watching the boys encourage each other during the last game exhibited how far they had come in achieving this goal. Four boys won individual awards for their season efforts. Aaron Harris and Marcus Tebbs were named to both the GISA AllState and GISA Region 1AAA teams. Michael Bone and Will McCartney were named to the GISA Region 1AAA team.

Middle school soccer finished the season 9-2-1 and as CSRA runners-up. The boys made it to the championship game for at least the fifth year in a row. With a primarily young team, the middle school program looks strong for the future.

Middle school boys soccer team were CSRA runners-up.

Middle school cross country finished their second year of competition and showed great improvement.

All members of the team set personal bests time after time.

The team as a whole had a great showing at the CSRA championships and continue to set the foundation for this new athletic program.

Middle school cross country continues

Varsity competition to build a strong foundation. cheerleading cheered for varsity boys soccer this fall. In November the girls began focusing on their competition routine and competing for a State championship. On December 6, the girls competed, finishing runner-up in the state. The girls gave a great competition performance.

Middle school cheerleading spent their fall supporting the middle school boys soccer team and then transitioned to the basketball team. The girls continue to develop the foundational components needed in cheerleading and have had a great servant attitude in supporting athletic teams this year.

Special thanks goes out to all of our coaches for their time and dedication to training our student-athletes, not just in sports, but in life education. In addition, thanks to all of the parents for their time and dedication in supporting our individual teams and our Westminster athletic program as a whole. We know that the athletic program here at WSA is successful because of your efforts and dedication.

Our visit from former professional football player Joe Ehrmann was a huge success. We were honored to have Joe with us for a coach’s seminar, community address and Upper School chapel.

Special thanks to the planning committee of Rhonda Barinowski, Laurie Merrill, Joe Ehrmann enjoyed Mike Hearon, Aimee Lynch, talking with students.

Steve O’Neil, and Paul Owen for all their efforts in making this event a success.

Joe spoke to 75 area coaches (collegiate, public and private schools) about the impact that coaches can have on an individual’s life in this society. His message was simple: coaches have a great responsibility and tremendous power to impact students’ lives for good. It is a coach’s responsibility to develop a mission and vision for coaching, gain accountability from fellow coaches and mentors to fulfill that mission, and focus on the two most important aspects in an individual’s life: relationships and leadership. This was a great opportunity for us to invite Augusta to our campus and be salt and light to them.

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Two W e s t m i n s t e r At h l e t e s C o m pe t e Nat i o n a l ly

Westminster freshman Cara Smith and sophomore Annie Speese recently returned from the 2008 U.S. Youth Soccer Olympic Development Thanksgiving Program, held in Coral Springs, Florida. These two were chosen to represent the Southeast in this invitation-only competition for spots on the National Team. Cara was one of only two Georgia players on the 93 Team (born in 1993), and Annie was the only Georgia player on the 92 Team (born in 1992). U.S. Youth Soccer is divided into four regions; the Southeast is comprised of 12 states as far west as Texas. The U.S. National Team also competed in this event. Both were selected to travel this spring with the National Team. Annie will travel to Portugal, while Cara will go to Denmark.

Annie has been a starter for Westminster’s varsity team since 8th grade. Last season, as a freshman, she set the school’s single-season scoring record. Cara was the leading scorer in the entire Southeast Region while playing for their Atlanta club team.

To p H i g h S c h o o l At h l e t e

Senior Breck Ardrey was chosen this fall to be included in Augusta Magazine’s list of 12 Top High School Athletes.

Augusta Chronicle’s sports editor nominated Breck for the honor. These 12 students were chosen from among all schools in the CSRA and highlighted for being “Top of their Game.”

W e s t m i n s t e r Row e r s

Though Westminster Schools does not compete as a school in rowing, we do have several students who are members of the Augusta Junior Rowing Team. Augusta Rowing is made up of students and adults from across the CSRA. The teams compete in regattas on the Savannah River and around the country. Westminster boasts the largest number of students participating on the Augusta Junior Rowing Team: Alexandra Acree, Jason Bailey, Brian Buckley, John Buckley, Jonathan Chang, Cassie Hartmann, Nick Newsome, Chloe Ray, Blair Robillard, Sarah Saxon, Drew Sladky, Rachel Smith, and Clark Williams.

W S A H o s t s Au s t r a l i a n T e a m s

In December we had the privilege of hosting 24 players and six coaches from Trinity Grammar School of Sydney, Australia. Trinity is a private school with about 1,200 boys in grades 7-12. Their boys basketball teams were touring the United States during what is their summer break. They visited Indiana, Georgia, and California playing against public and private schools.

Westminster students welcomed the boys from Trinity Grammar School, who arrived early enough to sit in on a few classes and enjoy lunch with our students. They spent the afternoon practicing before taking on all of our boys basketball teams that afternoon and evening. We had a great time with them. Although we lost all games, the experience was great for our school, for our players, and for our families. The Australians stayed overnight with some of our families, so it was a great opportunity to share our community.

Westminster Wildcats took on Trinity Grammar School from Sydney, Australia.

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Development and Alumni

It’s hard to believe 2008 is over and we’re beginning a new year, complete with new challenges and blessings. One blessing that bridges the change on the calendar is the generosity of the families and friends of Westminster. The launch of this year’s Westminster Fund (formerly the Annual Sustaining Fund) is off to an amazing start. As of January 9, we have received $204,773.06 in pledges and donations toward our $300,000 goal.

The board of trustees has committed to 100% participation with gifts and pledges that account for almost 1/3 of our $300,000 goal. They have increased their giving from last year, even with the challenging economic times.

Some of you may be asking why you should participate and why the Westminster Fund is so important. The Westminster Fund bridges the gap between the cost of a good education and an excellent education. Tuition Carrie Brigham does not cover the total cost of our children’s education. (This is the case at most private schools.)

We are thankful to all those who give so Although we can function by providing an education to our generously to Westminster. We try our children based on tuition, we would be remiss if we fell away from best to recognize those of you who support striving to fulfill our mission by providing an excellent education the fund each year in the Annual Report. based on a Christian world view.

We inadvertently omitted some names

Simply stated, in order to continue to support the from last year’s fund report. The following top quality academics, extracurricular programs, and excellent people supported last year’s Sustaining faculty, the Westminster Fund is essential. Your gifts, no matter Fund and were not included in the Annual Report. what the size, are a vote of confidence in Westminster and its Mr. and Mrs. J. I. McNair Jr. mission. As we seek grants from foundations, they often want Dr. and Mrs. Emmanuel Ngoh to know what percentage of parents, alumni, parents of alumni, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Harley grandparents, and faculty donate to the school. What a testimony it would be to those organizations and our community at large to see wholehearted commitment to this special place. For your convenience, we have included a self-addressed envelope for your gift or pledge.

Blessings,

Carrie Brigham Development Office cbrigham@wsa.net or 706-731-5260, ext. 2219

Thanks to all of you who participated in redirecting a portion of your Georgia state tax to the GOAL Scholarship Program. By taking part in this program we are able to increase our tuition assistance. It is not too early to apply for the 2009 program. Anyone who pays Georgia state taxes may participate by redirecting up to $1,000 if you file single or up to $2,500 if you file jointly. Also, any C-corporation may redirect up to 75% of their Georgia state taxes.

Contact the Development Office to find out more about this program and how to participate.

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W e s t m i n s t e r Au c t i o n D i n n e r

Be a part of this years auction by being a sponsor or donating an item!

The auction committee is accepting donations of items, artwork, frequent flyer points, vacation rentals, and other creative ideas. To make a donation or for more information about the auction, please contact Carrie Brigham in the Development Office at 706-731-5260, ext. 2219 or cbrigham@wsa.net.

GOLD LEVEL Chris Hitchcock & Rob Woods The Hitch-n-Post Center for Pediatric Dentistry COPPER Blanchard & Calhoun Queensborough National Bank & Trust TURQUOISE Charlie & Peggy Green Greig & Kat McCully Matt Willis - State Farm Agent

Westminster Golf Tournament The second annual Westminster Golf Tournament was held October 1 at Belle Meade Country Club in Thomson, Georgia. We appreciate our organizers: Mike Hearon, Chris Hitchcock, Charlie Knox, and Rob Woods. Through the generosity of our sponsors and participants, this event raised $12,000 for the Westminster Fund. Several corporate sponsors supported our efforts: Blanchard and Calhoun, Tom Blanchard Regions Bank, Tommy Powers Morgan Keegan, Charlie Knox The Knox Foundation

HITCHCO Corporation, Kevin Coley Center for Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Lee Baker Just In Time Meds, Rob Woods Georgia Bank and Trust, Jay Forrester

The Southern Family Medical Center team of Sean Lynch, Mike Hodnick, Todd Fuller, and Rusty Coble won the tournament. Second place winners were the Queensborough Bank and Trust team of Adam Harris, David Bullington, John Haynie, David Whyte. Third place was Mike Freace, Mark Tebbs, Andy Mosely, and Randall Boutwell. Jay Forrester won the putting contest, and Paul Wier won the prize for the longest drive.

Westminster Fun Run The second annual Wildcat Road Race turned out to be another great school community event. Open to Westminster families and the public, 55 people registered for the 1-mile Fun Run and 45 competitors registered for the 5K. We are grateful to Lynn and Mark Fulcher for spearheading this athletic fundraiser. Their infectious enthusiasm has gotten us well on the way to an annual family event that’s good for the body and the soul.

Brent Carter provided the background music and PA system. Refreshing drinks and nourishment were provided by the Westminster Parents’ Club. And we really appreciate the cooperation of three Sheriff’s deputies to control road traffic and maintain safety for our runners on the 5K course.

The Road Race earned about $1,250 to benefit the school. Thanks to all our registrants and our sponsors: Augusta Pediatric Associates, Chick-fil-A, Mark and Lynn Fulcher, and Coca-Cola.

Davis Chapman, Evan Crutchfield and Drew and Bill McCartney.

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Runners at the Wildcat Fun Run.

Ellie and Aimee Lynch.

homecoming 2008 Class of 1988 Reunion

‘88 Reunion: Marie Westbrook Austin, Kristina Nomm Lyle, Brian Laughlin, Stephenie Crouch Duffie, Chris Lutz and Dan Linsz.

Alumni and families at homecoming.

Cheerleaders at Homecoming 2008

This year’s Homecoming was an exciting time as the class of 1988 reconnected for their 20th reunion. All but one class member were able to come back for the festivities. These alumni and their families had a great time touring the campus and seeing how much had changed and what was the same. Walking the halls triggered many stories about classes, teachers, and an occasional prank!

After the tour, the class of 1988 joined alumni from other classes for barbeque before watching the Wildcats win their game against Alleluia.

The weekend concluded with a dinner at the Pinnacle Club, where the class unanimously decided not to wait another 20 years to get together! Like the class of 1988, you don’t have to wait 20 years to see your old friends and classmates. Mark your calendars now for next year’s Homecoming activities scheduled for Saturday, October 10, 2009.

Matt Willis grills out during homecoming festivities.

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Westminster’s “Spirit Rock.”

Alumni News and Highlights Be looking for our new Alumni section to debut on the Westminster Web site (www.wsa.net). Once we’re up and running, we’ll include more detailed information about our alumni, as well as how to contact your friends. Only Westminster alumni can access this special section.

Please send your class news and photos to Carrie Brigham, Development Office, at cbrigham@wsa.net.

Class News

Recent Graduates Class of 2008: Alexa Burgess is a

student at Georgia Southern. Martha Kathryn Menger is studying in the dance program at University of South Carolina-Columbia. Bradley Newton is in the Honors Program at University of Georgia. Tyler Vines is studying at College of Charleston.

Class of 2007: Anthony Lehn is studying premed at Bob Jones University. Chris Hearon is a prepharmacy major at University of Georgia. Jared Tebbs attends the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. He recently returned from a training cruise which visited Kuwait, Dubai, Alexandria, Jeddah, and Karachi as a way of gaining practical knowledge about various types of merchant vessels.

Marriages: Carolyn McClendon and Michael Austin Curley were married in Lincolnton on August 30, 2008.

Class of 2006: Caitlin Davison is majoring in psychology at Georgia College and State University. She is a Young Life leader and volunteers with a community service group. Allison Moye is a nursing student at Medical College of Georgia. Michael Mecredy is enrolled in the B.S./M.S. joint degree program for environmental engineering at Georgia Tech. Michael is involved in

Michael Mecredy

various student leadership opportunities and is a teaching assistant.

Class of 2005: Ashley Rogers is a nursing student at Medical College of Georgia in Athens. Miriam Lentz Scogin is majoring in accounting at University of South Carolina-Columbia and works part-time in a CPA firm.

Ivan Stojanov is at University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Ivan is a psychology major and is on the UNC men’s crew.

Class of 2004: Laura Bailey completed a degree in advertising at University of Georgia and is pursuing an M.A.T. in early childhood at Augusta State.

Charlotte Boyd is completing her studies at MCG as a diagnostic medical sonographer. She works at Trinity Hospital in Augusta. Jack Ellis graduated cum laude from University of South Carolina-Columbia with degrees in international business and finance and a minor in Japanese. Jack works for BearingPoint Management & Technology Consultants in the Navy International Programs and is enjoying his new life in metro D.C. Mary Ellen Stebbins completed her classics degree at Harvard College. She was president of the Harvard Pops Orchestra and on the Harvard-Radcliffe Gilbert and Sullivan board. Mary Ellen currently is pursuing an M.F.A. in theatrical lighting design at Boston University. She works for Huntington Theatre at Boston University through her graduate program. She has a mainstage show at the Huntington in February. Lee Turley earned a B.B.A. in entrepreneurship from Belmont University. Robert Watts graduated from University of Georgia with a degree in political science (prelaw). He worked on Tom Price’s campaign until the fall

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elections and is off to D.C. Kristine Merriman graduated from George Washington University with bachelor degrees in research-oriented chemistry, archeology, and classical humanities.

Currently, Kristine is studying for an M.S. in archaeological science at Merton College of the University of Oxford. In summer 2005, 2006, and 2008 Kristine participated in archeological digs in Israel.

Kristine Merriman with Tel Aviv in background.

Marriages: William Boyd and Catie Pursley were married in Augusta on June 21, 2008. Amy Rhoden and Daniel Smith were married in Augusta June 21, 2008.

Amy Rhoden and Daniel Smith

Class of 2003: Blanche Conger earned bachelor degrees in ancient languages and English. She graduated summa cum laude from Wheaton College and was in the Scholastic Honor Society. She lettered in swimming all four years.

She currently is a graduate student in classics at University of Virginia and plans to pursue a Ph.D. She was awarded the Presidents Fellowship at University of Virginia and the Francis Lazenby Summer Grant (University of Virginia) for 2008. Kara Downey graduated summa cum laude from

Northwestern University with degrees in theatre and political science. She spent time studying public health in China and development in Uganda.

After graduation, Kara taught English in Russia. She has been awarded a Fulbright Grant to spend the year in Kyrgyz Republic researching international democracy promotion efforts. Fall 2009, Kara plans to enter the Ph.D. political science program at Stanford University. Jim Griffin graduated from University of Georgia with a B.S. in biochemistry. He currently is enrolled in Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Emily Hokett graduated from Walla Walla University with degrees in history and psychology and a minor in secondary education. Emily is engaged to be married next summer. Rebecca Wissehr Howell graduated summa cum laude from Savannah College of Art and Design with a B.F.A. in painting.

She also has a minor in art history.

Rebecca works as a sales associate and gallery manager at Red Gallery in Savannah. Katie Foushee graduated from University of Georgia and currently is manager of Sonia Says in Athens. Joseph Morris is at University of Georgia. David Moody graduated from University of Virginia with a B.A. in classics. Currently, he is in an apprentice program for Christian school administration in Naples, Fla. Marriages: Matthew Farmer and Laura Wilkerson were married in Dalton, Ga., on July 14, 2008. David Moody and Melissa Harrison were married in Naples, Fla., on March 8, 2008.

Rebecca Wissehr and Jordan Howell were married in Sheldon, S.C., on March 22, 2008.

Class of 2002: Edmund Booth III graduated from Clemson University with a B.S. in industrial management.

He works for UTi Integrated Logistics as an operations manager and world class manufacturing consultant. Lindsay Joiner Bui graduated from Georgia College and State University with a B.B.A. in accounting and a master’s of accountancy degree. She works

for Moore Stephens Tiller, LLC and has recently taken the CPA exam.

David Shoffitt graduated magna cum laude from University of Colorado at Boulder with a B.A. in history. David is in the U.S. Navy and flies SeaHawk 60B helicopters out of Mayport Naval Station in Jacksonville, Fla. Pamela Thompson Kinnaird earned a B.S. in industrial and systems engineering from Georgia Tech. She is a software/supplychain consultant. Pam plays guitar and is a lay leader at her church. Rania Williams earned a B.A. in English from Indiana Wesleyan University, an M.A. in English (rhetoric and composition) from University of Florida, and is pursuing her Ph.D. in public relations there.

Marriages: Ashley Meister and Ty Tumlin were married May 17, 2008 in Marietta.

international politics from Penn State.

She earned her M.S. in international relations/national security from Troy University. Currently, Elizabeth works for the U.S. Department of State in the Iraqi Verification Unit of the Refugee Processing Center. Mary Beth Hutchins graduated from University of Georgia. She now works in public relations in the D.C./Northern Virginia area. Andrew Lehn graduated from Bob Jones University and is a fourth-year medical student at MCG. In addition, Andrew is a youth leader at Westside Baptist Church here in Augusta.

Zachary Pollard graduated from the University of Georgia and now works for Doulos Ministries Inc. as a residential caregiver for troubled youth. Chandler Smith graduated magna cum laude from Vanderbilt University with a B.A. in political science and communications studies. Chandler is a press assistant for ONE Campaign and is active in the Junior League (Washington, D.C.).

Janet Moody Reinking graduated from Georgia Tech. She is employed

by Printpack Inc. of Atlanta as a pricing analyst.

Marriages: Janet Moody and Mark Reinking were married in Athens on August 23, 2008.

Class of 2001: Andrew Anderson earned a B.S. in psychology and criminal justice from Georgia College and State University and an M.S. in clinical psychology at Georgia Southern. He currently is working toward a Psy.D. at Argosy University. Andrew teaches Sunday school. Ansley Brannen graduated magna cum laude from University of Georgia Honors Program with a B.A. in political science and a B.B.A. in international business.

Ansley currently is employed as a financial analyst for TriMont Real Estate Advisors. She is active in the Junior League (Atlanta) and is engaged to be married this fall. Sarah Rogers Crews graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in business. Sarah currently is a private banker with Bank of North Georgia (a Synovus Bank). Elizabeth (Beth) Degner Ivory received a B.A. in

Class of 2000: Katie Faulkner Coleman graduated from University of Georgia with a B.B.A. in marketing.

She works in marketing with real estate firm Eakin Partners in Nashville.

Amanda Newsome Creamer is a development officer for Intermountain Children’s Home in Montana. Laura Denning graduated from University of Georgia. She is a pharmaceutical sales representative for Johnson & Johnson. Maria Fedor earned her A.B. from Georgetown University. She graduated cum laude with a J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. Maria currently is an associate with the law firm of Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP in the D.C. area. Joanna Hatcher earned a B.S. in human development and family studies from Auburn University. She earned her M.A. in teaching from Augusta State University.

David Shoffitt - SeaHawk 60B

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Katherine Coleman Johnson earned a degree from Auburn University in human development and family studies.

She earned her master’s in art and teaching for elementary education from Oglethorpe University. She teaches at Edgewood Elementary School in Birmingham. Kathryn Haburchak Brown graduated from Georgia Tech with a B.S. in international affairs.

She lives in Marietta and works as a marketing associate for Life Office Management Association. Adrienne Camille Lehn Heindl earned a B.S. in math education and a M.Ed. in math from Bob Jones University in Greenville, S.C. She is a mathematics instructor at North Greenville University.

Marriages: Emily Boyd and Paul Lyday were married in Augusta on September 20, 2008. Kathryn Haburchak and Nick Brown were married in Augusta on March 8, 2008.

Katherine Coleman and Brown Johnson were married in Augusta June 28, 2008. Adrienne Lehn and Ray Heindl were married Kathryn Haburchak this year. and Nick Brown

Katherine Coleman and Brown Johnson

Adrienne Lehn and Ray Heindl

Class of 1999: Nathan Adams earned a B.A. in English from Furman University. Nathan is active duty in the U.S. Army. He currently is deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Stacie Bullock graduated from Clemson University with a B.S. in food science & human nutrition, subsequently going on to The Citadel to earn an M.A. in psychology with an

emphasis on clinical counseling. Stacie now works as a registered dietitian and clinical nutrition manager at St. Francis Hospital in Greenville, S.C. Lauren Massey Jannik earned a B.S. in psychology from Presbyterian College. Lauren co-owns an ice cream shop/espresso bar/café called Crema on Fayetteville. Lauren and husband Tim have twin girls – Molly and Ellie – born in 2007. Davis Shaefer graduated from George Washington University with a B.A. in political science. He currently is enrolled in Mercer University School of Law. Jacob Walker earned a degree in civil engineering from Georgia Tech.

He now works for Anson Construction Company in Charleston.

Class of 1998: Megan Roberts Williams graduated from Georgia Tech. Megan currently is a stay-athome mom. Esther Miller Claassen earned her degree in business/economics from Wheaton College. She earned an M.B.A. from Augusta State University.

Currently, Esther is a realtor in Rochester, Minnesota. Stephen Story has been named executive director of The International Link, a ministry to internationals studying and working in the Augusta area. Stephen earned his undergraduate degree from Columbia International University, with majors in family and church education and Bible. He also completed his M.P.A. at University of Nebraska.

Births: and Matt and Megan Roberts Williams: a daughter, Sloane Ellis was born September 2, 2008.

Daniel and Esther Miller Claassen: a son, Stewart Daniel was born July 17, Daniel, Esther and 2008.

Stewart Claassen Class of 1997: Daniel Hancock graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with a B.S. in political science. He graduated with honors this summer from the Naval Postgraduate

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School with an M.A. in security studies.

Currently, he is studying Arabic in Monterey at the Language Institute. He is a veteran of two deployments. Daniel and his wife have two children, Emma Grace (infant) and Aiden (3). Danielle Huckabee graduated from Gordon College (Wenham, Mass.) with a B.S. in recreation and leisure studies. Danielle lives on the North Shore outside Boston and splits her time between working as a nanny and in a financial planning office.

Births: Joy and Daniel Hancock: a daughter, Emma Grace Joy, Daniel, Emma Grace was born on Hancock May 16, 2008.

Class of 1996: Cullen Rodgers-Gates (formerly Cullen Gates) received a B.A. in philosophy and an M.A. in historical and systematic theology from Wheaton College. Cullen is a consultant to the Congo Initiative, which he describes as a remarkable venture in raising up Christian leaders in eastern Congo.

Cullen and Mandy have three children: Mandy, Cullen, Ethan, Caleb, Hanah Rodgers-Gates Hanah (7), Ethan (5), and Caleb (1). Madison Roberts graduated from Georgia Tech. He earned his J.D., cum laude, from Mercer University. He and wife Rebecca live in Atlanta. Madison is an associate with the law firm of Troutman Sanders.

Class of 1994: Laura Womack Craddock earned her B.S. from Georgia Baptist College of Nursing. She is a hospice nurse for Hospice Care of Tri-County in Columbia, S.C. She has three children: Graysen (7), Avery (5), and Morgan (5 months). Jason Faulkner earned his M.E. from

Vanderbilt University and then M.S. from Georgia Tech. Currently, Jason teaches middle school math, science and logic at Heritage Preparatory School in Atlanta. Allen Joiner Jr. earned a B.S. in computer engineering from Georgia Tech. He works as a software developer at Radiant Systems Inc. Allen serves as an officer for a civic association. He and wife Jean have two children: Everett (3) and infant Camille. The Joiners are active in their church in Atlanta.

Births: Mike and Laura Womach Craddock: a daughter, Morgan Claire was born March 25, 2008. Jean and Allen Joiner: a daughter, Camille was born April 23, 2008.

Class of 1993: Todd Atkins graduated from Clemson University with a B.S. in civil engineering. He is an engineer at Edens & Avant in Columbia, S.C. Jennifer Wilson Fuller earned a B.A. in middle grades education at Berry College and then an M.Ed. in the same at Augusta State University. She has an Ed.S. in educational technology from Valdosta State University and is currently employed by Richmond County Board of education. Heather DeJong Lawrence earned a B.S. in interior design from Georgia Southern University. She is NCIDQ certified.

Heather is a stay-at-home mom and is on the steering committee for Moms of PreSchoolers. Jane Bray Coleman Napier is a controller for a telecommunications company in Acworth, Ga. Class of 1992: Anna Hatcher Hitchcock earned a degree in elementary education from Covenant College. She and husband Nate live in San Diego with their five children.

Anna homeschools their children and is involved in women’s ministry at the church where her husband is associate pastor. Marcus Veazey, a graduate of Wofford College, is a vice president of DUTKO Worldwide which develops and implements strategies to shape public policy outcomes. Marcus and wife Emily live in Atlanta.

Class of 1991: Carla Wong McMillian graduated from Duke University where she was a member of Phi Beta Kappa.

She graduated with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law. Carla is a partner in the Atlanta office of Sutherland, Asbill and Brennan. In 2007, she was selected as a Georgia Super Lawyers Rising Star. She and husband Lance live in Tyrone, Ga. Class of 1990: Allen Wallace recently finished his Ph.D. in English literature from Arizona State University. He now teaches The Princeton Review, an SAT prep class, in Augusta high schools.

Class of 1989: Allison Olmstead Taylor earned a B.A. in English and education from Oglethorpe University.

She earned an M.Ed. in English from Georgia State University. Allison now is a stay-at-home mom for her three boys.

(In her last year of teaching (1999), Allison was STAR teacher for Henry County.)

Class of 1988: Dan Linsz graduated from Judson College (Elgin, Ill.) with a degree in adolescent studies. He currently is the director of Recruitment for Serving In Mission (SIM) USA. He and wife Corrie have three boys: Tyler (6), Joshua (4), and Samuel (2).

A l u m n a A wa r d e d F u l b r i g h t CONTINUED a point; historically, a great deal of political meddling has been done by the US and others in the guise of foreign aid.

During my time in the Kyrgyz Republic, I’ll be talking with NGO workers to understand how they balance pushing for real political change with the need to avoid charges of meddling. I’ll also be talking to Kyrgyz activists and politicians, both to see how they currently relate to foreign NGOs, and to learn what they think other countries can or should do to help democracy flourish there.

The US is a rich and powerful country, and I think that we can be a powerful force for good in the world--if we use our resources wisely. For several years now, the promotion of democracy abroad has been a stated goal of US foreign policy. However, there’s been surprisingly little research done on the ground about how--or even whether--one country can aid the development of democracy in another.

Kara Downey and friend with I’m hoping that my year in the Kyrgyz Republic holiday ice sculptures in Siberia. will allow me to start answering some of these questions.

I’m also looking forward to Photos on back cover: (Top row exploring a country and a culture that left to right) 6th grader Michael so far I’ve only been able to read about.

Stallings. The Prep School chorus Though poor in some respects, Kyrgyz sang during Thanksgiving chapel.

Republic, with a breathtaking mountain Day School Christmas musical. landscape and a history stretching back to (Bottom row left to right) the Silk Road, is very rich in others. After 5th graders led pledge at Richmond I return, I’ll begin a Ph.D. program in County Courthouse ground political science at Stanford University. breaking. Varsity cheerleaders So as I continue my journey, I wish you Anna Hearon and Mackenzie luck in yours.

Burgess. The Robert Campbell family enjoyed Fall Connection.

Kara Downey (‘03)

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