Window 2014

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pr e sby t e r i a n s c h o ol Looking in on our Alumni

THE SPRING 2014

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FEATURE STORY: 25 BEST THINGS

ABOUT PS

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS 1988.2013

5300 Main street houston, texas 77004

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Contact Us 2

CL ASS TRIPS. MUSICAL. L IFELONG FRIENDS. TEACHERS. ATHLETICS. MUSEUM PARTNERSHIPS. F IELD DAY. TECHNOLOGY. OUTDOOR EDUCATION CAMPUS. F IELD TRIPS. RODEO DAY. PARENTS. ART. RECESS. CL ASS PROJECTS. GREAT MOMENTS IN HISTORY. SPL ASH DAY. CHRISTMAS WORKSHOP. KINDERGARTEN CIRCUS. COMMUNIT Y SERVICE. PS CAMPUS. CHAPEL. MEXICAN MARKET. MIDDLE SCHOOL. K & 4TH BUDDIES. PS. WE LOVE YOU!

REMEMBERING THE BEST

IN THIS ISSUE

F A M I LY, S C H O O L A N D

C H U R C H U N I T E D I N T H E

E D U C AT I O N A N D S U P P O R T O F E A C H C H I L D .

PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL 5300 Main Street Houston, Texas 77004 www.pshouston.org BOARD OF TRUSTEES Efua Ankoma-Sey Kim Clark Lisa Coleman Nora Dobin Julie Harris Sharon Henry Laura Higley Ace Holley Brock Hudson Jane Joplin Sean Keenan, Treasurer Mary Knapp Bill Lee Lea Aden Lueck, Secretary Andrew McFarland Sam Murray, Vice Chairman Taylor Reid Jamey Rootes Judy Stanley Claudia Stewart, Chairman Tim Williamson Ex-Officio Members Reverend Dr. Jim Birchfield, FPC Pastor Dr. Mark Carleton, Headmaster ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP Dr. Mark Carleton, Headmaster Janet Fox, Academic Dean Christy Heno, Philip Cannon, Head of Middle School THE WINDOW Editor: Andrea Lawless Design: Lizzie Voss

Contributors: Frances Boswell Mimi Ervin Andi Georgsson A special thank you to the alumni and parents who contributed to this magazine. We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the printed information. Please send alumni updates or corrections to Lizzie Voss, Development Associate, at 713.620.6354 or [email protected].

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Head of Early Childhood/Lower School

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Best Things About PS 3

As you pick up this year’s Window and flip through its pages, you’ll notice something special about Presbyterian School . . . at the tender age of twenty-five, PS is a school that recognizes the capacity for love in every member of its community and then nurtures that capacity even after folks have left the brick walls and black-and-white tiles that characterize our buildings. You’ll notice a love that is deep and wide . . . that is rugged and soft . . . that is in-the-moment and long-lasting.

You’ll notice a love that is carefully planted at the earliest stages of childhood and parenthood and then is deftly nurtured into a maturity that is, at the same time, willing and able . . . satisfied and ambitious . . . comforting and challenging.

You’ll notice a love that conquers the world by conquering little impossible things each and every day—inside classrooms, on stages, at competitions, around monkeybars, between swingsets, and throughout childhood.

You’ll notice a love that grows from toddler to teenager, from partner to friend, from seatmate . . . to classmate . . . to college roommate . . . to soulmate.

You’ll notice a love that lives more inside questions than it does inside answers . . . questions like: What would you do with a million dollars? If you could be anyone in history, whom would you choose? How much does God love you?

You’ll notice a love that takes risks because it’s risky to stand up for what you believe and it’s risky to challenge other people to do that, too (especially in the first grade) . . . because it’s risky to fail and then to learn from that failure . . . because it’s risky to stretch and push and accept the challenges of going too far so that you can discover how very far you can go.

You’ll notice a love that believes in a God whose compassion knows no bounds, whose forgiveness is limitless, and whose grace defies understanding, and you’ll read about a love that wants to share that God with the world.

In the end, you’ll read about our students and alumni who characterize themselves with words like open-minded, courageous, hard-working, grateful, spirited, curious, and patient, and you’ll ask yourself how very important those same characteristics are in your own life and how much your association with this good place has cultivated them in you and your own family.

This is a School about THAT love.

Dr. Mark Carleton Headmaster

THIS IS A SCHOOL ABOUT LOVE

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CELEBRATING OUR 25 YEAR HISTORY

In the past quarter of a century, we have seen Presbyterian School grow from 75 students to 540; from fewer than 50 families to more than 350 families; from having our oldest students as three-year-olds to our oldest students as thirteen-year-olds; from a faculty of fewer than 20 to a faculty of more than 90; from a Church investment of $100,000 to an independent operating budget approaching $10 million. We have many reasons to give thanks in our 25th Anniversary year.

The dream that is now Presbyterian School was first articulated in the

mid-1980s by Dr. Jack Lancaster, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church from 1961 to 1990. After expanding the Church’s facilities to include a new Christian Education wing, Dr. Lancaster formed a School Study Committee in 1986. Mr. Eugene H. Vaughan, Jr. led the Committee which evolved into Presbyterian School’s first Board of Trustees.

An intensive nationwide search led the School Study Committee to Founding Head of School, Dr. Betty Baxter. A national expert on early childhood education, Dr. Baxter shared the principles upon which the School was built and believes this to be a key factor in Presbyterian School’s strong start. “I believed then and still believe in the development of the whole human being socially, emotionally, physically, cognitively, spiritually,” said Dr. Baxter. Presbyterian School enthusiastically opened its doors to 75 new students ages 2 years old through Kindergarten on August 18, 1989, with a plan to add an additional grade each year thereafter through the fifth grade. On that first day of school, Dr. Baxter began one of many beloved traditions that continue to this day. She stood at the door and greeted each student, at his or her eye level, with a handshake and a smile.

As the School continued to grow, the school’s Board of Trustees approved

planning for a Middle School. Construction on the Lancaster Center, named for the Church’s now Pastor Emeritus began in 1998, nearly a decade after the School’s founding. Then Head of School, Ellen Welsh, Board Chair, Carlton Wilde and Board President, Kim Sterling played key roles in realizing the objective of building a middle school. “Our goal was to create a schoolhome for middle school age students that would be strong and invigorating in terms of how it serves all of our children,” said Dr. Welsh. “We wanted to build on the concepts of personalization, parent participation, conversation and civility, and an evolving criteria of intelligence.”

Presbyterian’s Middle School opened with 67 students in fifth and sixth

grades, and in June 2003 the first class of eighth

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History of PS 5

grade students graduated. As the School continued to grow, the need for additional green space soon became apparent.

A 14-acre property located just south of the Texas Medical Center

on Highway 288 was purchased for the School’s Outdoor Education Campus (OEC). The School motto, “As children of God at Presbyterian School, we respect ourselves, each other and the environment,” served as a compelling vision for the concept of the OEC. “While our children can learn about the importance of conservation and environmental science in the classroom, not all learning can take place indoors. To learn about the great outdoors, students need to be outdoors,” said Head of School, Raymond E. Johnson.

The OEC officially opened with a pavilion, outdoor education area, two

regulation size athletic fields, eight lane track, cross country trail, outdoor chapel, nature garden areas and rolling hills to serve students in environmental learning, athletics, play and outdoor worship.

Dr. Mark Carleton became the Headmaster and encouraged continued

growth of the School with new strategic vision and innovation. Both the main campus and the OEC became wireless to support an increase in new technologies including iPads, digital projectors, Smart Boards and Apple TV. In 2010, an iPad initiative began which has now evolved into a 1:1 iPad program for all fourth-eighth grade students. Fine arts classes such as sketching at the MFAH, and wellness electives such as Biomechanics and Worldviews were added for seventh and eighth grade students. Targeted and consistent servant leadership opportunities were established through Panther Patrol, student recycling and specific grade

level projects. New sports including swimming, wrestling and golf were added.

Dr. Carleton shares, “As we live Dr. Lancaster’s vision, we are a

school that believes that every adult, from parents to teachers to administrators, influences each student’s success in a culture that is characterized by respect and dignity for all.” From this essential belief, the School’s faculty came together to formally articulate the School’s core values which rest upon the simple objective of Reflecting God’s Love and include Respect, Perseverance, Courage, Compassion, Integrity and Gratitude.

PS graduates are excelling in Houston’s finest high schools and America’s prestigious colleges. More significantly, Presbyterian School students are good people and good citizens, interested in the world around them and eager to become leaders in it.

2005

2008

2009TODAY

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BEST THINGS ABOUT PS25

In honor of Presbyterian School’s twenty-fifth anniversary, we went in search of the twenty-five best things about our school. And who better to ask than our alumni? Polling nearly 500 alumni, we received responses that clearly ranked the top twenty-five best things about Presbyterian School.

From small moments to big moments, from the main campus to the Outdoor Education Campus, and from Alpha to eighth grade, there were many sacred and treasured memories from our graduates. While our alumni created this top twenty-five countdown, our current students have found many of their top favorites in this list as well.

So whether you are interested in joining our community or have just joined, we can attest to Robert Browning’s words, “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be…”

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1Flying on 3,000-foot zip lines, rafting treacherous white water, hiking with llamas, and playing with snow on a sunny afternoon in May… all rank as #1 for a school day activity. The great outdoors wins hands-down as our Alums’ best classroom ever! Over the years our middle school students have enjoyed their annual overnight class trips in Texas to Camp Allen, Camp Cho Yeh, Mo Ranch, T Bar M, and Camp Eagle in addition to Buena Vista, Colorado, and Green River, Utah. Some of the BEST MEMORIES EVER are made on these trips.

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2We are reminded from Cinderella, our 2007 musical, that, “Impossible things are happening every day.” Our students are accomplishing great theatrical feats from learning new choreographed dances to assuming a different persona to designing a vivid, larger-than-life backdrop—all on the biggest of stages and often for the first (or, only) time! The annual eighth grade musical in May has become a rite of passage for our graduates. Conquer the musical; conquer the world!

MUSICAL

T H E M U S I C A L W A S A S P E C I A L M O M E N T I W I L L A L W AY S R E M E M B E R . P E R F O R M I N G W I T H S U C H C L O S E F R I E N D S M A D E I T A G R E AT N I G H T.

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3Many of our students will spend nearly twelve years together... the longest length of time in any one school—by a long shot! They will grow from toddlers to teenagers, from classmates to soul mates. It’s where our students make the kinds of friends who know them at their best and love them at their worst; who cheer for them even if they’re on the other team; who give them a second chance when the world seems to end; and who aren’t afraid of telling them the truth. Why? It’s what we do for family.

LIFELONG FRIENDS

M Y C O L L E G E R O O M M AT E , E R I C B L A C K W E L L , I S S O M E O N E W H O I M E T A N D W E N T T O S C H O O L W I T H AT P R E S B Y T E R I A N .

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At PS, we love our students every day, from wake-up to good night; from Alpha to eighth grade; from Main and Bissonnet to the OEC. It’s a love that looks you in the eye and says “good morning” and “have a great day.” It’s a love that isn’t afraid of messes, like finger-painting or dissecting a worm or playing soccer in forty-degree Houston mud. It’s a love that values things like God and gratitude, perseverance and compassion, courage and integrity, and respect. Above all else, it’s a love that says, “Thank you for letting me love you.”4TEACHERS

M Y R E L AT I O N S H I P W I T H T H E T E A C H E R S AT P R E S B Y T E R I A N W A S E X T R A O R D I N A R Y. E A C H T E A C H E R S E L F L E S S LY G A V E T H E I R T I M E T O U S I N S T U D Y H A L L S A N D C L A S S .

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There’s no denying the thrill of the GAME—whether that thrill comes from diving into water, wrestling on the mat, sinking a three pointer, or hitting one long down the center of the fairway. Beginning in sixth grade, students can join one of eleven different sports teams including basketball, cross country, field hockey, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, track & field, volleyball, and wrestling. Always striving for a higher standard than winning, the Panthers are first and foremost a team. Catch the Spirit of Presbyterian School on the green, in the gym or on the fields at the OEC. The Spirit is Here!

5ATHLETICS

I ’ M R E A L LY G L A D T H AT W E H A D S U C H A C R E AT I V E S E T O F P. E . T E A C H E R S W H O K E P T A L L O F U S C O M P E T I T I V E A N D R E I N F O R C E D T H E I M P O R TA N C E O F C O M I N G B A C K F I G H T I N G F O R A W I N I F W E L O S T T H E F I R S T T I M E .

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Prekindergarten students learning about Egypt walk to the Museum of Fine Arts

to see King Tutankhamun: the Golden King and The Great Pharaohs. Fifth grade

students reading a book on World War II walk to the Holocaust Museum to see

firsthand artifacts. Seventh grade students working on ceramics walk to the Glassell School and throw on their potter’s wheel.

With over nineteen museums within walking distance in the neighborhood,

PS students have many world-renowned resources literally at their fingertips.

6MUSEUM PARTNERSHIPS

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An explosion of energy and color hits the OEC every year in April as Panthers of all

ages descend for an annual day of fun field competitions. It’s a day when lines are

blurred and differences in friendships, grades and genders dissolve. Kindergarten students

ride piggyback on seventh graders; second graders revel in the company of middle

schoolers, and fifth graders eagerly reunite with their former lower school teachers.

It’s a mass family reunion as Panthers are shuffled and THE TEAM mantra takes over.

All for one and one for all!

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In one short decade, cutting edge technology has moved from the tops of our desks to the palms of our hands, especially for our students. At PS students haven’t missed a beat with these advancements in technology. From desktops to laptops to SmartBoards to digital projectors to iPads to Apple TV, students have embraced it all with nimble enthusiasm. They revel in eBooks, apps, email, and hundreds of digital resources at the touch of a screen.8TECHNOLOGY

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A quick, seven-minute bus ride from the main campus, the Outdoor Education Campus has been a destination for so many memorable experiences and special events such as our Early Childhood Splash Day, Lower School OEC days, Middle School athletic games, the School Carnival, the School Gala, and much, much more. Our fourteen acres of green space are not only used for fun events, outdoor learning, and athletics, but also for worship and hands-on experiences with the natural world that God created.

9OUTDOOR EDUCATION CAMPUS (OEC)

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Strategically located in the heart of the Museum District, PS is at the center of the city. We are minutes from museums and a light rail ride away from the Medical Center, Reliant Park, and Downtown. Whether it’s going to the Courthouse to conduct a mock trial or visiting Hermann Hospital to see LifeFlight or catching a musical at the Hobby Center, students never stop learning or having fun when they leave their classrooms.

10FIELD TRIPS

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Yee-haw, it’s time to Rodeo! On Go Texan Day, the last Friday of February, we dust

off our cowboy boots and don our best western duds to celebrate the heritage of

Texas. It’s a memorable day as we host our own Early Childhood Rodeo, complete

with a stagecoach, a livestock show (petting zoo included!), and rodeo events such as

the horse-stick races and potato sack races. Students even try out life as a cowboy with

gold mining, campfire cooking, and singing!

FIELD TRIPS 11RODEO DAY

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E A R LY Y E A R S

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12For most school-aged kids, seeing Mom

and Dad at school can either mean really good news. . . or, really bad news! At PS,

though, students get to see their parents all the time. From Chapel time to lunchtime,

from classroom presentations to big group assemblies, our parents get to share many parts of the school day with us. PS

parents live out our mission by supporting the School in so many ways—from

coordinating volunteers for special events to showering the faculty with appreciation to sharing their professional expertise and

supporting our students at home. It’s a partnership that we love and would not

change for the world- it’s truly Family and School united!

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Masterpieces are in the making, and the next Picasso, Van Gogh, or Cezanne may very well be in our midst. Whether it’s with finger paints, watercolors, oil pastels, acrylic paints, sharpies, markers, crayons, or colored pencils, the finest artistic creations on display at PS usually spring from the minds and talents of our students. There’s no limiting their imaginations as they study master artists, visit with curators, and examine renowned works to forge their own unique paths to artistic greatness.13ART

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14 What would a top twenty-five countdown in a school be without RECESS! The highlight of every child’s day, recess is a time to wind up or wind down… whatever the body needs. Students can take a breath of fresh air and hang out with friends. They can pump themselves higher on the swing set, show off their hand blisters after crossing all the monkey bars, or finally tag the fastest kid in the class! As students make new friends and invent new games, they realize only the sky’s the limit.

RECESS

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15Big ideas and big questions are our specialty. What would you do with a million dollars? How do you wire a house with electricity?

How can an egg survive a 10-foot drop? What’s the best way to build a bridge?

How did you count to 100? Thinking BIG leads to BIG ideas, and our students attack these questions with gusto

and lots of creative and critical thinking. Whether it is independently or within a team, students are unleashed to explore,

discover, and create projects that have real-world applications and solutions.

CL ASS PROJECTS

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16Have you ever wanted to be someone famous . . . or, infamous? Our third graders get a taste of notoriety during their iconic Great Moments in History “Parade of Stars.” After researching and writing (and re-writing and re-writing!) clever and creative speeches, each third grader dons the attire and assumes the persona of his or her famous figure. From Sacagawea to Sandra Day O’Connor and Babe Ruth to Barack Obama, our students share about the life, work, and impact of an historical individual. PS students will never forget their “great moment” in the spotlight as they make their own stamp on history.

GREAT MOMENTS IN HISTORY

G R E AT M O M E N T S I N H I S T O R Y W A S A T U R N I N G P O I N T F O R M E . I T W A S A T I M E W H E R E I W A S A B L E T O D O W H AT I T H O U G H T W A S N E V E R P O S S I B L E . F O R 5 T O 1 0 M I N U T E S , I W A S K I N G A R T H U R B E F O R E A C R O W D O F P A R E N T S A N D T E A C H E R S . I T W A S A N I N C R E D I B L E E X P E R I E N C E T H AT I W I L L N E V E R F O R G E T.

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17On a bright May morning, Alpha, Beta, and Prekindergarten students enjoy a fun-filled Splash Day. With slip-and-slides, water slides, bounce houses, cozy coupe car washes, and more, students cannot wait to get wet and get their teachers wet. It’s the one day you can dunk a teacher or shoot a water gun… and not get in trouble. What more can you ask for?

GREAT MOMENTS IN HISTORY SPL ASH DAY

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18 It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The season of love, joy, gifts, and good tidings hits PS with full force each December. The halls are decked with 10-foot trees filled with ornaments, and garlands are woven into the stairwells while signs of “Christ-math” are evident on the walls. With bowls piled high filled with sweet treats, icing oozing onto gingerbread houses, and carols playing in the background, the signs are pointing that Christmas is near!

CHRISTMAS WORKSHOP

I U S E D T O L O O K F O R W A R D T O C H R I S T M A S W O R K S H O P E V E R Y Y E A R . I L O V E D M A K I N G H O T C H O C O L AT E , B E A N B A G A N G E L S , A N D O R N A M E N T S . I T S T I L L I S O N E O F M Y F A V O R I T E M E M O R I E S .

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19 Did you know that school can be a three-ring circus? You may have imagined kids hanging off the ceilings and teachers snapping their whips. But picture this: The Greatest Show On Earth… in Kindergarten fashion. From the ringleader to the lion tamers, strongmen and acrobats, this is one three-ring act that is unforgettable!

KINDERGARTEN CIRCUS

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K I N D E R G A R T E N C I R C U S W A S A V E R Y F U N A N D M E M O R A B L E E X P E R I E N C E . O U R E N T I R E C L A S S W A S I N V O L V E D I N S E T T I N G U P D I F F E R E N T C I R C U S A C T I V I T I E S A N D W E H A D A N O P P O R T U N I T Y T O S H O W O F F O U R TA L E N T S . M R S . C H R I S T O U D I D A F A N TA S T I C J O B A N D I T W A S O N E O F M Y F A V O R I T E M E M O R I E S AT P R E S B Y T E R I A N S C H O O L .

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20Students love to go off campus to serve. Whether it’s right across the street serving sack lunches at the Emergency Aid Coalition or driving on a bus across town to the Houston Food Bank, where there is a need, there is a willing PS heart. Each year over 200 middle school students from PS have the opportunity to serve a dozen different non-profit organizations for an entire school day. What a difference one child can make!

COMMUNIT Y SERVICE

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21The School’s mission of Family, School, and Church united is clearly evident on our campus. Located in a state-of-the-art facility in First Presbyterian Church, students benefit from the nurturing environment of both school and church. Serving more than 530 students, the School utilizes over thirty classrooms spanning three divisions, two learning commons featuring over 35,000 books, four fully-equipped science labs, two art rooms -including an in-house kiln, two music rooms, an Academic Enrichment Center, two gymnasiums, a 1,200-seat theatre, sanctuary, and chapel. Learning (and fun) can happen in so many different locations.

PS CAMPUS

I L O V E T H E L O N G TA B L E S AT L U N C H A N D B E I N G A B L E T O TA L K T O Y O U R F R I E N D S A N D B A R E LY F I T T I N G E V E R Y O N E AT T H E B I G TA B L E .

M O R G A N T H O M P S O N ( C L A S S O F ’ 1 3 )

C L A S S O F ’ 1 1

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22In the midst of change there is always

one foundational element that remains unchanging at PS…. our God. Weekly grade level chapels breathe life into our

school and encourage each and every student to experience God through

worship, Scripture, and prayer. School-wide chapels, such as Veterans Day Chapel, Christmas Chapel, and Easter Chapel serve

as commemorative worship experiences for the entire school. As children of God

at Presbyterian School, students learn that receiving and reflecting God’s love can be

life-changing.

CHAPEL C L A S S O F ’ 1 2

C L A S S O F ’ 0 8

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23PS students are multi-cultural entrepreneurs in the making. Lower and Middle School students work together to host an annual Mexican Market day where handmade items are sold using the economy south of the border. From making their own products to marketing and selling them, students are doing it all in Spanish. As if the supply and demand of economics weren’t enough to master, try doing it in a different language. PS students are ready to give the international economy a run for its money.

MEXICAN MARKET

C L A S S O F ’ 1 3

C L A S S O F ’ 1 2

C L A S S O F ’ 0 7C L A S S O F ’ 1 0

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24 “It was the best of times; it was the worst of times. It was the age of wisdom; it was the age of foolishness…” While Charles Dickens used these words to set the stage for A Tale of Two Cities, there are no better words to describe Middle School. It’s hard to forget your first dance, your first crush, an argument with your best friend, sitting at a table full of strangers at the MS luncheon, or trying a new middle school activity . . . like knitting or Yoga. As with all roller coasters, you may scream in terror, but the thrill of the ride is unforgettable.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

I H A D A W O N D E R F U L T I M E S H A R I N G T H O S E L A S T D AY S O F M I D D L E S C H O O L W I T H S O M E O F M Y B E S T F R I E N D S . I ’ L L A L W AY S C H E R I S H T H O S E M E M O R I E S !

D E S I R E B O S T O N ( C L A S S O F ’ 0 5 )C L A S S O F ’ 1 3

C L A S S O F ’ 0 4

C L A S S O F ’ 0 8

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25The best relationships come in big AND

small sizes. Each year, fourth grade students eagerly anticipate meeting their Kindergarten buddies. Ruling the lower school roost, fourth grade students take

pride in the leadership of their young buddies. No matter the activity- reading

a good book or reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at assembly- being together is

always better. These newfound connections often forge into long-lasting friendships.

K AND 4TH BUDDIES

C L A S S O F ’ 1 4

C L A S S O F ’ 1 0

C L A S S O F ’ 0 8

C L A S S O F ’ 1 2

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The end of eighth grade at Presbyterian School is by its nature a time of transition. Soon, this Class of 2014 will leave the comfort of classrooms, playing fields and worship spaces that are so familiar to them. They’ll head off to different high schools, and school life will change in dramatic ways. The difference with the Class of 2014 students who are “Lifers,” is that the end of middle school at PS means leaving the only school they’ve ever known.

Lifers are graduating Presbyterian students who entered as Alphas and Betas, in Prekindergarten or in Kindergarten. Each spring, Lifers are invited to an informal luncheon of pizza and lemonade so they can talk about their happiest PS memories. These stories are always good for many laughs – not to mention the animated debate over varying versions of events.

When asked to describe themselves in one word and to reflect on how Presbyterian School shaped them into the young men and women they are today, the mood turns thoughtful. Here are their stories and the lessons they learned.

CLASS OF 2014 LIFERS

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Class of 2014 Lifers 33

T H R O U G H T H E Y E A R S

2 0 0 2 . 2 0 1 4

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Cooper Braverman (PreK) says his years at PS helped him develop a taste for trying new things. That attitude emerged this year when he was tapped for the first time to play goalie at a school lacrosse game. “I started out pretty worried, but in the end I realized I could do it.”

Allie Brown (Alpha) shares, “Throughout my time at PS, I have felt loved and supported,” noting also that she and friends Sara, Natalie and Mollie, all met as two-year-old Alphas. “They have been through everything with me, and I’m so thankful for that.”

Walt Bryant (K) says the good times he’s had at school have made him a cheerful person. “Every year we do Field Day, and I’ve liked helping the littler kids out.” He fondly remembers Splash Day, a much-loved activity for Early Childhood. “Those times were the best!”

PS. I AM A LIFER. I AM.. .

Lizzie Burnett (K) is grateful for PS who has been another family to her. Lizzie shares, “each class trip brought my grade closer and made me care more for each of my classmates. I will always remember the times we had at Camp Cho-Yeh, T Bar M, Camp Eagle, and especially Colorado.”

Grace Castaneda (Alpha) shares, “I try new things, and I allow myself to try to reach goals that seem impossible,” Her Beta teacher offered her lots of encouragement when she felt timid. Over time, her courage grew. “I used to be afraid to play sports, but now I love playing field hockey and lacrosse.”

Abby Cohan (Alpha) has developed a lively spirit and great sense of humor from all the different PS activities, ranging from the kindergarten circus to the middle school class trips. “All of my friends can rely on me to pick them up because I care about them and cherish our friendships.”

Mary Dade (Alpha) shares her favorite memory of learning how to read and write with Mrs. Kirkconnell and Mrs. Hoppens. “Whether in the classroom or on a field, teachers have encouraged me.” Mary says her teachers taught her that she could achieve her goals and “do whatever I set my mind to.”

O P E N - M I N D E D L O V E D H A P P Y

E A C H C L A S S T R I P B R O U G H T M Y G R A D E C L O S E R A N D M A D E M E C A R E M O R E F O R E A C H O F M Y C L A S S M AT E S . I W I L L A L W AY S R E M E M B E R T H E T I M E S W E H A D AT C A M P C H O -Y E H , T B A R M , C A M P E A G L E A N D E S P E C I A L LY C O L O R A D O .

L I Z Z I E B U R N E T T ( C L A S S O F ’ 1 4 )

H A R D W O R K I N GC A R I N G C O U R A G E O U S H U M O R O U S

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Emma Kallmeyer (Beta) remembers making leprechaun traps in kindergarten and special events, including the Chinese New Year Parade, Splash Day, Kindergarten Circus, and Great Moments in History. “It got me even more excited about school whenever we were doing those activities.”

Sachin Jaggi (Alpha) can “break out and do a lot of things at PS,” adding, “I’m loud and different, but I can be myself here. I’m thankful for teachers letting me be true to myself and never getting mad at me for that. I’m grateful they directed me in the right way and shaped me into a better person.”


Lucy Jane Herbert (PreK) remembers feeling “panicked” at the thought of having to learn the times-12 multiplication facts in fourth grade. She shares that her teacher, “went out of her way to be really helpful and enthusiastic, and now I don’t get scared about math.”

Elizabeth Henke (Alpha) has become more determined through the encouragement of others. Throughout her years at Presbyterian School, she remembers, “teachers and classmates always saw the best in me and challenged me to see it, too!”

Mollie Hanna (Alpha) says PS gave her the confidence to express her natural exuberance. She shares, “After we climbed to the top of the Colorado mountain, the sights we saw made us all happy to be at PS with each other. I am surrounded by positive influences who pump me up to be myself.”

Georgia Drager (PreK) has found that PS has shaped her to become joyful because of all the caring people and loving teachers. Georgia was not able to choose one specific memory; “Every year, something wonderful has happened that has given me great joy!”

I ’ M T H A N K F U L F O R T E A C H E R S L E T T I N G M E B E T R U E T O M Y S E L F A N D N E V E R G E T T I N G M A D AT M E F O R T H AT. I ’ M G R AT E F U L T H E Y D I R E C T E D M E I N T H E R I G H T W AY A N D S H A P E D M E I N T O A B E T T E R P E R S O N . S A C H I N J A G G I ( C L A S S O F ’ 1 4 )

Michael Keene (Alpha) recalls the Colorado trip when he got altitude sickness and threw up repeatedly. “I was very thankful that I kept going with the help of my friends because it was all worth it when I made it to the top. I am very thankful for my great group of friends.”

E N T H U S I A S T I CJ O Y F U L E N E R G E T I C D E T E R M I N E D

G R AT E F U L S P I R I T E D T H A N K F U L

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D E D I C AT E D

Will Rippeto (K) has a clear dedication to music. “I’m the only boy in my grade who has been in the choir, Main Men, for four years,” Will states with great pride, “I love singing.” His dedicated personality has been cultivated over the years at PS through opportunities in and out of the classroom.

H E L P F U L

Sara Koch (Alpha) has learned how important it is to remain open to getting to know new people even in the midst of comfortable relationships already solidly established. With new kids joining PS each year, Sara shares, “We’ve learned how to be friendly to our old friends and make new friends too.”

C R E AT I V E

Ben Lewis (Alpha) remembers a poem he wrote in second grade about a telephone, noting with confidence, “It was awesome: it rhymed and everything.” Although his teacher mistakenly gave credit to another student, Ben remains buoyed by pride in his creative work.


P O S I T I V E

Natalie Luther (Alpha) has become more positive. When there are stressful tests or projects, teachers and friends have helped her keep a positive mindset without letting the work overcome her. “My past and present teachers around the school support me and always have a smile and hug to share.”

AT H L E T I C

Jack McInnis (K) was part of the Panther Varsity football team for two years. He remembers one season where his team finished with a winning 11-2 record. He shares, “With the help and support of the PS coaches, I grew so much- not only as a player but as a person, too.”

C U R I O U S

Nicholas Novelli (Alpha) has found many outlets for his curiosity. “PS has encouraged me to learn and explore many things that interest me. One of my favorites was the Physics Festival. I researched the Rubens’ tube and was able to demonstrate it to the entire school community.”

K I N D

Ben Powitzky (K) was inspired by his seventh grade teacher, Ms. Webb, because “she demonstrated kindness to me.” Ben is paying forward the kindness as he meets and befriends new students to PS. Ben shares, “ I try to be nice and helpful. I really like to make others feel good!”

E V E R Y O N E H E R E H A S S M I L E S F R O M E A R T O E A R , A N D T H E T E A C H E R S A R E V E R Y C O M F O R T I N G A N D U N D E R S TA N D I N G . P S H A S S H A P E D A L L T H E S T U D E N T S I N T O W E L L- R O U N D E D P E O P L E , A N D R E S P E C T I S O N E O F O U R C O R E V A L U E S . P A O L A S A G E L ( C L A S S O F ’ 1 4 )

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Nick Wheat (K) notes that he has learned to contemplate the long-term effects of his actions over the years. “Our teachers always challenge us to consider the effects of our actions. They help you think about the future and make wise decisions.” The insight has been priceless!

Reed Stanley (Alpha) feels very fortunate to have gone to Presbyterian School since he was two years old. He shares, “I have had great teachers and coaches, received a great education and am surrounded by an amazing community.”

Abby Williard (PreK) shares when your surname begins with W, forbearance is sure to develop. “Whenever we lined up for lunch, I was always at the back of the line. It used to really bother me because I’d be really hungry, but that taught me a lesson.” She has developed great patience.


Paola Sagel (PreK) has felt respected by her classmates and teachers since her first day at PS. “Everyone here has smiles from ear to ear, and the teachers are very comforting and understanding. PS has shaped all the students into well-rounded people, and respect is one of our core values.”

Jack Rowe (K) has fond memories of playing basketball for the Panthers. Jack shares, “My happiest times are when I am with my coaches and teammates.” He adds, “I have learned to persevere through difficult situations on and off the court.”

Chloe Roman (PreK) remembers her lacrosse season with Coach Riley. During one game, her team was down four points. After an inspirational talk from her coach, Chloe’s fire was ignited: “As I took the field, I became determined to win and play a great game.”

C L A S S O F 2 0 1 4 H I G H S C H O O L A C C E P TA N C E S

Houston Schools Cristo Ray Jesuit College Prep.

DeBakey High School Duchesne Academy

Early College High School The Emery/Weiner School

Energy Institute High School Episcopal High School

HSPVA Houston Christian High School

The Kinkaid School Lamar High School

Second Baptist School

St. Agnes Academy St. John’s School

St. Pius X High School St. Thomas’ Episcopal High School

St. Thomas High School Strake Jesuit College Preparatory

Westbury Christian School

Boarding Schools

The Landmark School (MA) St. Andrew’s School (DE)

Woodberry Forest School (VA)

F O R T U N AT ED E T E R M I N E D P E R S E V E R I N G R E S P E C T E D

P AT I E N TI N S I G H T F U L

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ALUMNI CLASS UPDATESWith email, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, not to mention good ole’ fashioned parent talk, there are many ways for us to catch the latest news on our graduates. Whether their pursuits are academic, athletic, professional, or personal, they have many varied and high-achieving aspirations. It’s hard to believe that a third grade great moment can predict an award-winning Tommy Tunes performance…. or that an early childhood Chapel experience could develop into a lifelong calling to a third-world country… or that a middle school fine arts class could be the beginning of a career in photography. The seeds planted at PS have taken root and are bearing much fruit in the lives of our alumni.

The following pages give updates on our eleven graduating classes. Some alumni have taken the entrepreneurial route and started their own business, others have traveled the world from one continent to another, and still others have shown their talent in the athletic arena. It is remarkable to see what can transpire in just one year! Stay tuned…these stories are not over yet!

Adam King (Class of ’05)

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Alumni Class Updates 39

Ben Clemenceau (Episcopal ’07, Millsaps College ’11) graduated with a double major in Business Administration and Communications Studies. Currently, he is a Market Analyst at Cameron International, a member of the Houston Young Professionals and serves on the PS Alumni Board.

Emma Ebbs (Lamar ’07, University of Houston ’12) graduated with a degree in Spanish and a minor in Global Business. Currently, she works as the Fundraising Events Associate at the Children’s Museum of Houston. The events Emma manages raise over one million for the museum annually. In her spare time, she volunteers at the Junior League as a Provisional Member and has been on the

Gatekeepers Committee for the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo for the past three years. Emma has also taken many continuing education classes at Rice University in the philanthropy and nonprofit leadership departments.

Max Elizondo (St. John’s ’07, SMU ’11) lives in New York City and works as an associate at C-III Capital Partners.

Griselda Gallardo (Chinquapin ’07, St. Edward’s ’11, University of Houston MBA ’14) will graduate with an MBA from University of Houston. At U of H, she is a member of the National Society of Hispanic MBAs. She had the opportunity to study abroad in Paris, France with her program focusing on International Marketing and Luxury Branding. She was featured in a U of H video for the study

abroad program. Outside of U of H, Griselda volunteers at Breakthrough Houston and works as a case administrator at The Mills Law Firm.

Katy Odom (Episcopal ’07, University of Texas ’11, University of Houston Law ’14) received her undergraduate degree with a double major in Geography and Government. In May, Katy will graduate from the University of Houston Law School. She will spend the summer preparing for the bar and start work in September for Wilson, Cribbs and Goren.

Courtnie Penson (Chinquapin ’07, Sam Houston State University ’12) graduated with a degree in Sociology. She is currently in her first year of graduate school at the University of Houston, pursuing a masters degree in social work. Courtnie

Will majored in Political Science as an undergraduate at Stanford University and has long believed that education is the most

effective way to reduce discretionary spending and increase economic equality in our country. After graduating in 2011, he joined the Teach For America Kansas City corps hoping to serve society in a meaningful way. His experience teaching in

both urban and suburban parochial schools has opened his eyes to an array of issues with public education. When Will teaches, he tries to develop and instill in his students a strong sense of integrity. Will shares, “People are endowed with different gifts, but all are called to be their best selves. For that reason, I think character development is paramount.” Will credits Presbyterian School with growing his strong value system. He also shares that Presbyterian School’s teachers were important to his development. Will was very influenced by Dr. Cullen Hemenway, his fifth-eighth grade math and science teacher. Dr. Hemenway taught Will how important a strong male influence can be for adolescent boys. Will is currently teaching

a similar age group (sixth-eighth grades) and hopes to have the same impact as a male middle school teacher. Will aspires to “live up to the high standard that Dr. Hemenway set.”

In the Fall, Will plans to enroll in Yale’s School of Management to pursue an MBA with an emphasis on nonprofit management. He hopes his education at Yale will help him to one day open and run an education nonprofit organization that will help to fill some of the holes in the American education system. Will’s advice for PS students? “Listen to your parents and teachers: they have your best interests at heart and more wisdom than you know.”

WILL JOYCE Presbyterian School: 1998-2003 St. John’s School: 2003-2007 Stanford University : 2007-2011

2003

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is the current communications officer for the M.A.C.R.O. network organization on the U of H campus. She is also an intern at Texas West Oaks Hospital, where she helps to provide inpatient and outpatient mental health and chemical dependency treatments for youth, adolescents, and adults. Courtnie volunteered as the lead guest coordinator at Star of Hope mission. In late January, she took a leave of absence to focus more on graduate school.

2004 Blair Bradford (Episcopal ’08, University of Texas ’12) graduated with a degree in Business Honors and Spanish. Currently, she attends Law School at the University of Chicago. She was able to travel to Japan with PS seventh grade teacher, Kathy Webb’s, daughter. This summer she will have a job as a summer associate at Vinson & Elkins.

Keith Huff (Yates ’08) majors in Computer Science and expects to graduate next spring or fall from the University of Houston, depending if he decides to minor in Mathematics. He is involved in the Association for Computing Machinery and volunteers at his church every Sunday helping with the services. Amanda Lester (St. Agnes ’08, Saint Mary’s College ’12) graduated with a degree in Mass Communications. She traveled to Puerto Rico recently, volunteered at Lemonade Day, and worked in product marketing at TinderBox as a Fellow in the Governor Bob Orr Indiana Entrepreneurial Fellowship. Kelsey Rodriguez (St. Agnes ’08, Southwestern ’12) majored in Elementary Education and Special Education. She teaches preschool at a small Methodist church in Houston and traveled to the Early Childhood Methodist Conference this year. Kelsey recently volunteered by feeding the homeless. Teddy Russell (St. Thomas ’08, SMU ’12) graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Andrew Sterling (Episcopal ’08, Dickinson ’12) graduated with a major in International Business and Management.

2005 Desire Boston (Episcopal ’09, St. Edward’s ’13) graduated with a degree in Global Studies.

Currently, she lives in Houston and works as a retirement specialist in the Woodlands where she handles pension plans for people who are getting ready to retire. Malcolm Bremer (Kinkaid ’09, Drexel University ’14) graduated in March with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management and a minor in Business Administration. He is currently going through interviews within the sports industry and plans on working in either Houston or Philadelphia. Blaire Honore (Lamar ’09, HCC ’14) graduates this May with an Associate degree in Science. In the fall, she starts school at St. Thomas University where she plans to pursue a Bachelors degree in Biology. In July, she is getting married! Dandan Liu (St. Agnes ’09, Rice ’13) graduated Summa Cum Laude with honors in English Literature and a distinction in Research and Creative Works. After graduation, she worked for the Pluralism Project with Harvard University to look at emerging secular humanist communities in Houston. Last August, she traveled to Japan where she lived in Zen Buddhist monasteries for three months. Afterwards, she traveled to Nepal to study Tibetan Buddhism and spent a few weeks living in a stone and wooden shack in the remote Himalayas. After four months in Nepal, she embarked on a motorbike journey through Laos, Thailand and Myanmar, traveling over 3,500 miles overland. Dandan will head to China soon for several months to learn tai chi and hopefully, reconnect with her roots.

2006 Taylor Burnett (Episcopal ’10, Rhodes ’14) graduates Cum Laude in May with a major in

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History and minor in Religious Studies. She will move back to Houston to work for a year until she pursues graduate school. Katherine Egner (Episcopal ’10, Texas A&M ’15) is majoring in Accounting. She completed an audit internship with Ernst & Young this spring and will be staying at A&M for a 5th year to get her Master’s Degree in Accounting. When she graduates next spring, she will start a job at Ernst & Young.

Adam King (Strake Jesuit ’10) is in his junior year at St. Edward’s University and majoring in Chemistry. He is the President of the American Chemical Society Student Chapter, the Chairman Elect of the Dean’s Leadership Council and also received the Deans List Academic Award. He had the opportunity to work for undergraduate chemistry research and also traveled to Angers, France for six weeks to explore and expand his American worldview. St. Edward’s has a variety of study abroad programs and he became enthused

with French culture about two semesters ago. After taking his first French class, he knew he wanted to study there and fortunately was able to fit it in his degree plan. Adam shares “It was a fantastic six weeks and I feel I was really able to grow as a person there; everyone should study abroad if given the chance!” Andrew Shachat (Metairie Park ’10, UVA ’14) is in his senior year of college. He is a member of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, on the Honor Committee,

CL ARK JACOBS Presbyterian School: 2002-2007 Episcopal High School: 2007-2011 Vanderbilt University: 2011-present Clark Jacobs has stepped into the limelight with his father, Mark Jacobs, who is running as the Republican candidate in the 2014 election for the U.S. Senate seat in Iowa. Last year, the Jacobs family moved to Iowa to return to Mark’s home state. At first, when Clark’s dad told him about his intentions of running for the Senate, Clark thought

his dad was going through a mid-life crisis. In fact, during some of Clark’s recent campaign speeches for his dad, he shared how he thought Mark should have just gotten a sports car or a tattoo instead.

During Spring break this year, Clark traveled to Iowa to campaign for his father, spending one evening at the University of Iowa where he spoke at several Greek organizations. Another evening was spent at Drake University in Des Moines for the kickoff event of a new student organization called, “Bulldogs for Jacobs.” Between these two events, Clark was able to speak with about 200 college students and encourage their vote.

In addition to his college visits, Clark also attended Republican Conventions for seven different counties in Iowa. He was able to speak as a representative for his father to over 1,000 people. According to Clark it was an incredible experience for him to meet many active voters and travel around the state.

Where did Clark get his drive and sense of

commitment? He credits Presbyterian School with teaching him responsibility and giving him a sense of empowerment. Clark shares, “The tight-knit community of teachers and classmates were very supportive in my academic and extracurricular aspirations. I think I acquired a skill set to reach a goal on my own accord. Ms. Olmstead did a great job encouraging the students to utilize her support with an understanding that learning and achievement comes with an individual commitment. I am thankful that PS and teachers, like Ms. Olmstead gave me the opportunity to impose responsibility on myself when working towards something.”

Clark’s advice for PS students? “Don’t be afraid to venture outside your comfort zone. I decided to take a public speaking class this semester because I sometimes get anxious about the thought of speaking in front of large crowds. I sure didn’t know it would be put to use during my spring break trip to Iowa! I think it is necessary to challenge ourselves and ensure we are constantly growing.”

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part of Cavalier Daily and on the Dean’s List for grades. He had the opportunity to work at the UVA Law School Library and travel to Israel this year. Yoshio Wilson (Kinkaid ’10, University of Miami ’14) has maintained the Dean’s List throughout his college career. In August, he starts work with IBM in Finance and Marketing. Chris Winters (Strake Jesuit ’10, Wake Forest University ’14) is graduating with a major in Economics. He is very involved in his fraternity, Kappa Alpha, and served on committees for student government. Chris volunteered at Muscular Dystrophy Association and interned at

Crown Castle Intl. in Houston in the corporate finance division. He received the KA Tau Chapter Brotherhood award, the Dean’s list of academic achievement, and is a member of Omicron Delta Epsilon (International Economics Society).

2007 Kaitlyn Drtil (Kinkaid ’11) is currently attending Colorado College. She is a Varsity swimmer and was accepted into TCU’s School of Nursing. Mary Jacobs (Episcopal ’11) is a Social Work major at the University of Texas at Austin. She has spent

the last two summers in Uganda with Parental Care Ministries and this summer she will work for Austin Stone church with their outreach group called For The City. Sa’Misty Utley (Second Baptist ’11) is majoring in Psychology at Knox College. She is involved

DANIELLE BENN Presbyterian School: 1996-2008 St. Agnes: 2008-2012 Berry College: 2012-present

Danielle has always loved animals, especially horses. The veterinary summer enrichment program at the Texas A&M vet school helped solidify her desire

to pursue college studies along a pre-vet track, specifically with large animals.

To pursue this dream, Danielle found Berry College, the largest continuous campus in the US with 27,000 acres and a 99% student acceptance rate into vet schools. Berry College’s animal science program has given Danielle opportunity to interact hands-on with animals and not just learn about their cells, diseases and processes in a classroom. As a college sophomore, Danielle has already given vaccines, palpated cows for pregnancy and performed breeding soundness exams on bulls. She has also learned about animal nutrition, genetics, anatomy and physiology, and the functions behind different animal industries.

Danielle currently works for Berry College’s Rollins Dairy, which is housed on campus and

has over a hundred Jersey cattle, a dairy breed of cattle that is well known for high quality milk that makes especially good dairy products. After Berry College, Danielle plans to apply for veterinary school at Texas A&M to specialize in equine medicine or reproduction.

Danielle shares, “The large animal veterinarian world is mostly men, and although that is changing, this career is not for the faint-hearted. PS gave me a great foundation for my classes and taught me to trust myself.”

Danielle’s advice for PS students? “The earlier you can figure out what classes you like, or do not like, the easier things will be when it comes time to figure out what you want to study in college and what career you want. Setting goals will help you get where you want to go, one step at a time.”

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in M.E.Ch.A. and was accepted as a McNair fellow. Sa’Misty had the opportunity to conduct her own psychological research and traveled to Berkeley, California to present her research last summer. She also volunteered at her college during President Obama’s visit. Sa’Misty works with the Advancement Office as a Student Caller. Her duties include working with alumni to connect and get donations for Knox. Over the two and a half years she has been working, she has raised over $60,000 for Knox.

2008 Katherine Copper (St. Agnes ’12) is majoring in Conflict Studies at DePauw University. She is involved in Jumpstart, a volunteer run art program that provides kids in the surrounding area with free art classes. Katherine also volunteers at the Humane Society and interned at Periwinkle Foundation and Mills Shirley LLP.

Jack Hawkins (Strake Jesuit ’12) attends Vanderbilt University. He is involved with the Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) campus ministry group, Wilderness Skills outdoor club that runs weekend trips, and the Vanderbilt Club golf team. He volunteered at Isaiah 58 Ministry, a soup kitchen of Belmont Church in Nashville, TN. Jack received Dean’s List last fall for his academic achievement.

Casey Herrick (Episcopal ’12) is majoring in Psychology and Studio Art at Wesleyan University. Casey is involved in the Wesleyan Center for the Arts and is a Lab Assistant in the Wesleyan Darkroom. He received Deans List for his academic achievement.

Eric Blackwell (Strake Jesuit ’13) attends Baylor University. He plays intramural flag football and basketball. He is a part of FLO (Freshman Leadership Organization) and a new member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. Eric volunteered at several homeless shelters throughout Waco and at several after-school programs. Currently, he has a job within the business school.

Adair Cook (Episcopal ’13) attends college in St. Andrews, Scotland where she is majoring in Art History and Modern History. She is involved in Christian Union, Dance, Golf and Sallie Ball Convener. Adair was able to travel to Paris, Edinburgh, Dundee and London this year. Her family visited her in Scotland for Thanksgiving. Clay Eckman (St. John’s ’13) is loving his first year at Trinity University in San Antonio where he is majoring in Computer Science. He will return to Houston for the summer to work as an IT intern at Athlon Solutions. Harrison Hanna (Episcopal ’13) attends Baylor University. He works for the football team as a student equipment manager. The Baylor football

team won a Big 12 Championship, and Harrison was also able to go to the Fiesta Bowl. He works practices, games (home and away), and many times behind the scenes when the team isn’t practicing. He is also involved in intramurals, various student clubs and organizations, and local churches, as well continuing his involvement as a volunteer at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Harrison received Dean’s List his first semester. His roommate is currently another PS alum, Eric Blackwell, who he met at PS. Anna Grace Hawkins (St. Agnes ’13) is majoring in Economics and received Deans List this year for her academic achievement at the University of Georgia. She is an active member of the Chi Omega sorority and UGA HEROs. Anna Grace enjoys volunteering as a soccer coach for a U6 community soccer team and playing intramural indoor soccer. She is also involved with Campus Crusades for Christ (Cru) and Chi Omega philanthropy projects benefiting Make a Wish Foundation. Last summer she traveled to Haiti for a mission trip.

2009

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Amanda Leavell (St. John’s ’13) attends Princeton University. She enjoys being a member of her college lacrosse team and volunteering at ARC Mercer. Will Short (Kinkaid ’13) attends Southern Methodist University. He joined the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity this year.

2010 Hannah Beckman (Episcopal ’14) plays soccer and runs Cross Country for the Knights. She won MVP, All South Zone and All SPC for soccer, and was Captain of her soccer team. Hannah hopes to play at Washington and Lee University in the fall. Hannah volunteers at The Nehemiah Center, the Guild Shop, and the Food Pantry. She enjoys working at Define Body and Mind Studio and was a camp counselor last summer. Kelly Buckner (St. John’s ’14) enjoyed being the SJS Spirit Club Captain where she helped organize pep rallies, designed the t-shirt, and created the theme for Kinkaid Week. She is also Tour Guild Chair. As chair, she scheduled tours, gave tours and organized open houses. Kelly also enjoyed serving as a Summer Express Project Leader, a learning enrichment summer camp held at St. John’s for refugee kids of YMCA International. She was a project leader on a Costa Rica mission trip, her third trip there. In Costa Rica, she helped teach English in rural schools and build a home for a family, coordinated by Youth With A Mission (YWAM). This year was Kelly’s last year to participate in National Charity League, an organization she enjoys being involved in with many PS girls.

Foster Corrigan (Strake Jesuit ’14) plans to take a gap year before he begins college. He will travel to Lilongwe, Malawi to work at a pediatric AIDS clinic. Lexie Davis (Oldfields ’14) plans to take a gap year before she begins college. She will travel to Canada to work with injured wildlife and then to New Zealand to complete an urban internship. Arin Drtil (Kinkaid ’14) will be attending Duke University in the fall where he will major in Biomedical Engineering. At Kinkaid, he was captain of the Varsity men’s volleyball team and Varsity swim team. He set a new Kinkaid swim record in the men’s 4x100 free relay. Arin received the You Make a Difference Award, was nominated for the Mr. Falcon Award, and will graduate Cum Laude. He was involved with the sound design for Children’s Theater Play (Shrek), sound design for Spring Musical (Once Upon a Mattress), and a leader of the Peer Mentor Program. Outside of school, he worked for Electronic Parts Outlet and also had a three week internship at Rice in the Oshman Engineering Design Kitchen. He served as part of a medical mission team with Faith in Practice in Antigua, Guatemala over Spring Break. Arin traveled across the country for college visitation trips and also traveled to Austria where his grandparents live.

Phillip James (Strake Jesuit ’14) will attend Rhodes College in the fall where he will play baseball and major in Business. Phillip was involved in Baseball and the Future Investors Club. He traveled to Miami for baseball, volunteered at Challenger Baseball, and worked as a greeter at the Museum of Fine Arts for galas. He received Principals Honor Roll this school year.

Hannah Luedke (Episcopal ’14) is headed to Beloit College in Wisconsin, where she plans to study Mandarin and music. In June, she is going to China for language immersion in Shanghai and to volunteer at the Giant Panda Base in Ya’an. Isabella Olgaard (Episcopal ’14) plays Varsity field hockey and soccer, is President of Photo Club, and an NAHS member. She volunteers at Ten Thousand Villages in Rice Village, a fair trade store buying direct from artisans around the world. Isabella received Honor Roll and a Scholastics Gold Key Award for photography. Her photo, Reflection,

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was chosen for a student exhibit at the Houston Center for Photography. She received three honorable mentions in photography for ATPI. She also was a member of the 2013 NFHCA High School National Academic Squad for field hockey and a member of the National Art Honor Society. Isabella received an early decision acceptance to Mount Holyoke College and will be playing field hockey there.

Maggie Rippeto (Episcopal ’14) plays Varsity lacrosse, is a member of MASQUE acting group, an acolyte at church, a part of the Student Senate and a member of the National Honor Society. She

is very involved in theatre and played Anne Putnam in The Crucible. Maggie traveled to Orlando and California for lacrosse. She also went to Winter Park, Colorado for the First Presbyterian Church ski trip. Maggie volunteered for KIPP Dream for two weeks for senior outreach and received the Highest Honor Roll. Sophia Skelly (Kinkaid ’14) will attend Colorado College in 2015 after taking a gap year to do a North American Outdoor Leadership School semester in Brazil. She also plans to volunteer at a KIPP San Francisco school and work in London while living with a family.

KELLY OUBRE JR. Presbyterian School: 2007-2010 Findlay Prep: 2010-2014 University of Kansas: 2014

After receiving a black belt (the highest belt of achievement) in Tae Kwon Do at the age of 7, Kelly wanted to try something different. He followed in his father’s footsteps and jumped into

the game of basketball. Since his childhood, Kelly has been developing his athleticism on the court. After leaving Presbyterian School, Kelly enrolled in Findlay Prep of Henderson International School, a college preparatory program at Henderson International in Henderson, Nevada, a suburb of Las Vegas. Findlay Prep is a premier school for high school basketball athletes who want to get a college prep education on and off the court. 100% of Findlay graduates have qualified academically for NCAA Division I schools, and 100% of Findlay graduates have played Division I Basketball.

Kelly will attend Kansas University in the fall and hopes to earn a starting position on the university’s basketball team as the small forward. He is known for his offense, defense, and three-point shooting. Kelly has received many honors including McDonald’s West All-American, No. 11

player in the 2014 ESPN 100 (overall for recruits), No. 4 Small Forward in the 2014 ESPN 100, No. 4 Texas player in ESPN 100, and No. 4 Regionally (Midlands) in ESPN 100.

While Kelly aspires to reach the NBA, he also hopes to get a degree in Business Management or Sports Marketing. He hopes to be either a successful business man or a professional athlete.

Reflecting on Presbyterian School, Kelly shares that “PS was one of my most life-changing experiences. I was able to learn so much from my wonderful teachers and form life-long relationships with everyone of my classmates. I also got closer to God and was able to share that experience with the people I went to school with. PS helped open doors for my future and helped me become a better student on top of that. I would not trade the experience for anything!”

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CL ASS OF 2010 COLLEGE DECISIONSConnor Albert Stevens Institute of Technology Mary Evans Attwell Westmont College Omar Baasiri Texas Tech University Kate Ballard University of Oregon Hannah Beckman University of Texas at Austin Justin Bernard Rice University Charlotte Braverman Washington and Lee University Hank Bryant Sewanee Kelly Buckner University of Virginia Monica Bueso Sewanee Ben Burnett University of Texas at Austin Annie Cherner University of Texas at Austin Laurence Clarke Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Univ.

Foster Corrigan Gap year Sara Coutinho Undecided (Lives in Portugal) Hale Cullom IV Texas A&M University Lexie Davis Gap year Julia Diamonon Sewanee Kirsten Dobson George Washington University Arin Drtil Duke University Katherine Dyer Texas Christian University Andrew Fiedler Lynn University Cassandra Georgantas University of Denver Thomas Gill Baylor University Rachel Hale University of Mississippi Christy Jacobs Clemson University

Andrew Jacobs Northwestern University Phillip James Rhodes College Hannah Luedke Beloit College Andrew McCulloch University of Missouri Patrick McDugald University of Texas at Austin Jack Miller University of Texas at Austin Isabella Olgaard Mount Holyoke College Kelly Oubre Jr. University of Kansas Katie Parrish Texas Christian University Austin Peters Louisiana State University Nicholas Pike Undecided Nika Portz Reed College Max Rank University of Texas at Austin

Maggie Rippeto Rhodes College Myles Shealey Rollins College Ruby Sigaran Baylor University Madison Silver Tufts University

Sophia Skelly Colorado College Alex Sturtevant Louisiana State University Hayley Talkington Washington University in St. Louis Graye Taten University of Alabama Connor Thompson Texas Tech University Kendall Thompson DePaul University Isaac Tiharihondi Marine Corps Chase Williams Loyola University Chicago Presley Wilson University of Southern California

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Hayley Talkington (Episcopal ’14) will attend Washington University in St. Louis and will major in Marketing. She is very involved in theatre at Episcopal where she played Abigail Williams in the fall play The Crucible and Elle Woods in the Spring musical Legally Blonde: The Musical. She is also an Ensemble Member of Sweeney Todd at Generations Theatre Company. Hayley received a Tommy Tunes Scholarship, which is based on academic standing, extracurricular activities, teacher recommendation, and essay. It is given to students from the schools that participate in the Tommy Tune Awards and who plan on pursuing theatre in college. Hayley and Henry Herbert (Class of ‘11) were featured in the Tommy Tune Finale Number at the awards show. She volunteered at Small Steps Nurturing Center during Senior Outreach in January. The best part of volunteering there was that she ended up working in her former PS PreK teacher, Mrs. Mary Ellen Ellis’ classroom! Hayley states “It was amazing to be able to work with a teacher I had so many years ago!” Grant Williamson (Episcopal ’14) played soccer and golf and was involved in art. He traveled to England, Mexico and Florida. Grant received Best in Show Art Awards. Presley Wilson (Kinkaid ’14) earned honor roll. She received multiple college acceptances including Washington University, NYU, University of Michigan, University of Miami, and USC. She received the Presidential Scholarship for academics for University of Miami and will attend University of Southern California in the fall.

2011 Marwan Charafeddine (Strake Jesuit) is a member of the National Honor Society and

Chemistry Club. He attended the National Student Leadership Conference last summer and volunteered at the Houston Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity in DC. He was named in the Honor Roll. Jackson Cook (Episcopal) plays baseball for the EHS Knights and is a member of the Young Republicans Club and FCA. Jackson volunteers at The Nehemiah Center and Houston Food Bank and worked as a lifeguard at the River Oaks Country Club. Peter Dade (Strake Jesuit) plays baseball for the Crusaders and is a member of Athletes in Action, Key Club, Business Club and co-founder of the Fifa Club. Peter volunteers at The Houston Food Bank, the Nehemiah Center and First Presbyterian Church. Juliana Ganim (Episcopal) is a member of the EHS varsity lacrosse team and was in the theatre department’s The Crucible. She volunteers at WULL Challenger Baseball. Wylie Geibel (Episcopal) participates in EHS

onstage, Hooked on Books, and is starting a Psychology Club. He works as a lifeguard at the Briar Club. Dewey Gonsoulin (Strake Jesuit) plays football and was honored to receive 19-5A All District selection for football and is a member of the track and field team for the Crusaders. He is a member of Ducks Unlimited Houston Chapter. Dewey volunteers at the Nehemiah Center, Interfaith Ministries and Salvation Army. He worked in the warehouse at Faust Distributing Company.

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PERRY CORRIGAN Presbyterian School: 2007-2011 Strake Jesuit: 2011-present

Perry recently started a bow tie business called BulaTies with one of his best friends. They make hand-made bow ties out of recycled vintage fabric that they find at local thrift stores. They sell the bow ties for $15 and then donate $5 from every tie to a charity known as the Fiji Kinde Project.

Perry and his friend started their business to give the children of Fiji some well-deserved help. Fiji Kinde Project is a charity that provides early education for the impoverished children of Fiji by building schools, finding teachers, and providing materials children need to learn. BulaTies has been very successful selling at local markets, and Perry is currently talking with a couple of stores about

selling the ties there as well. They are hoping to expand their bow tie business and increase their online sales at www.bulaties.com.

Perry is looking forward to making BulaTies a long-term commitment. He is planning on studying business or finance in college. Perry shares that “Presbyterian School was a good anchor of my faith; it taught me how to organize myself, and it encouraged me to try new things.”

Perry’s advice for PS students? “Take advantage of all the opportunities you are given at Presbyterian School!”

Isabel Herrick (Episcopal) is on the Varsity swim team, and participated in the spring dance concert “First Steps.” She was named to the highest honor roll for spring semester sophomore year and honor roll for fall semester junior year. Akshay Jaggi (St. John’s) continues to compete on the Varsity cross country, soccer and track teams at St. John’s. He is an active member of the Model United Nations team and the Mathematics and Problem Solving team. Additionally, he is the co-leader of the South Asian Affinity Group where he helped host a chapel and participated in the Bollywood dance portion of the show. Akshay is a driver and member of the design team for St. John’s Ecomarathon team, which plans, builds, and races a car each year at the Shell Ecomarathon Americas. Recently, Akshay was elected Head Prefect of the SJS student body.

Brooke Jenkins (Houston Christian) is a part of the Houston Christian Varsity basketball team and the Student Ambassadors program. She is also involved in her church’s youth group. This year, she traveled to Phoenix, Arizona and Austin, Texas with her basketball team. Brooke volunteered with the organization, Agape Development Ministries. Last summer she was able to go to a program at Gordon College in Boston called Elevate, a “leadership lab for the next generation.” She was able to represent Agape Development Ministries and with a team of students, develop a project plan to help the organization. At the end of the leadership lab, she was awarded some seed money for Agape. Brooke also traveled on a mission trip to New Jersey with her youth group to help with hurricane relief. For the past three years, she has had a job at Chick-Fil-A. This summer, she hopes to participate in a mission trip to Nicaragua with her school.

Sarah Lewis (Kinkaid) enjoys participating in Varsity soccer and track. She is a representative for Spirit of Kinkaid Club and a member of Kinkaid Cooking for the Community and Spanish Club. Sarah was named to the Honor Roll. She was the team leader of the Race for the Cure team at Kinkaid. Sarah reports “We had a Race for the Cure week and also ran to raise money for breast

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cancer research. I got involved with Race for the Cure because I thought my school could be doing more to help. Breast cancer survival rates are increasing because of people who donate. It’s really important for schools to support the Susan G. Komen foundation and help fund their research.”

Claire Mangin (St. Pius X) is a member of the tennis team, Student Council and National Honor Society. Claire enjoys volunteering at school, youth group, and the Humane Society. Kim Martinez (St. Stephen’s Episcopal) is the manager for the tennis team and member of Girls Leadership Organization (GLO), Roots and Shoots and No Place for Hate. She looks forward to St. Stephen’s International Travel and Service trip to Costa Rica. Kim volunteers at Target Hunger and Houston Food Bank. She received a commendation for a 3.8 GPA. Megan McMillon (Memorial) is a member of the lacrosse team, Key Club, and Academy of Finance. She volunteers at Houston Food Bank. Meghan Parsons (Bellaire) is a Varsity member of the Cardinal swim team, National Honor Society, and Leo Service Club. She is also on the Dad’s Club swim team. For the Bellaire Cardinals,

Meghan participated in one event and one relay at her school district’s swimming championship. She was a finalist in two events and one relay at the regional championships. Meghan traveled to Oklahoma over winter break for a professional-amateur swim meet. She chaired a clothing and toy drive through the Bellaire NHS where they collected money to buy gifts on the Christmas lists of underprivileged kids at an elementary school in Bellaire. Meghan said “It was amazing to be able to give the families huge piles of wrapped presents to give to their children on Christmas Day.” Charlie Russ (Phillips Exeter Academy) plays Varsity lacrosse, squash, soccer and is the founder of Dream Interpretation Club. Charlie is the co-head of Foreign Currency Exchange. Katherine Ten Eyck (St. Agnes) is a member of the SAA/SJ Mixed Chorus and St. Agnes’ music ministry. She is a leader on the Dominican Preaching Team and helped lead a team of girls in the creation of a Bible study small group on campus. She has also enjoyed leading St. Agnes’ sophomore and junior retreats this year. Katherine was recently awarded an “Excellence in English 3” award. Outside of school, she tutors a fifth grader at the Nehemiah Center once a week. To fulfill her graduation requirement of 100 hours of service, Katherine spent her spring break in Eagle Pass, Texas with a group of about thirty Strake Jesuit and St. Agnes students facilitating home improvement projects and VBS at the local church.

2012 Caroline Ankoma-Sey (St. John’s) recently received the Maverick Award, an award given by St. John’s to a student who is kind, and has modeled the precepts of the School.

IN MEMORIAMThomas Dimitrious Wood passed away on Monday, the 10th of March. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church and attended Presbyterian School from Prekindergarten through seventh grade. He then attended St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Austin. Thomas was a creative writer and artist as well as an outstanding athlete on the baseball, football, and soccer fields. He loved Aggie football games and Camp Balcones Springs. His special PS friends were Peter Cordill, Dewey Gonsoulin, Peter Dade, Akshay Jaggi, and Adam Nunez. Presbyterian School extends its sincere condolences to the entire Wood family.

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Suman Atluri (St. John’s) enjoys being a member of the South Asian Affinity Group, Dance Club, Kantorei (Acapella choir), Chorale (non-acapella choir), Music Club and Student Diversity Leadership Council. He was chosen to perform at South Asian Affinity Group Chapel and did a solo dance. Next year, he will be Vice President of this club as well as a member of Chapel Guild. This school year he traveled to Washington DC for a Student Diversity Conference, visited Rochester, New York and India, and went on a Mediterranean cruise. This summer, he will sing with the St. John’s Kantorei group for the Papal High Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican for the Pope. Suman also completed over 250 hours of volunteering at the VA hospital. Recently, he has begun an initiative to help children in India learn about healthy living and nutrition and is working to create a non-profit this summer to help this cause. He has also helped start a diversity initiative at St. John’s which he says will be more in full swing next school year. Chris Borders (Memorial) plays JV football and JV basketball for the Memorial Mustangs.

Aubrey Calaway (St. Agnes) is highly involved at St. Agnes. She serves as a delegate for Student Council and is Vice President of the Students Against Modern-Day Slavery Club in which she helped organize a school-wide fundraiser. She is also Founder of the Fandom Appreciation Club in which she helped raise $228 for This Star Won’t Go Out, and is an Event Coordinator for Junior Statesman of America, in which she attended two conventions and won a best speaker award. In addition, Aubrey traveled to Washington D.C. with the Close Up program. Aubrey received a Gold Award for the National Spanish Exam Level III and the Phi Beta Kappa award from the University of Houston for outstanding academic and leadership ability. This summer, she will be traveling with Global Leadership Adventures to India, where she will work in a Tibetan refugee camp, and Thailand, where she will work in a rural village and elephant sanctuary. Sam Clark (Strake Jesuit) plays lacrosse and is a member of the Business Club, Student Council, and Key Club. He enjoys playing UCAL Basketball and volunteering at CCVS. He maintains above a 4.0 GPA. Jackson Cook (Episcopal) plays baseball for the Knights and is a member of the Young Republicans Club and FCA. Jackson volunteers at the Nehemiah Center and The Beacon and was named to the Honor Roll. Morgan Feanny (Episcopal) plays tennis, archery and golf at EHS. She and classmate, Cassidy Newsome (Class of ’12), went skydiving in Austin and said “It was a really weird feeling to be in the air chamber. It didn’t feel like you were falling, but it didn’t feel like floating either. It was a really cool experience!” She is a member of the Art Club, World Affairs Club and Film Club. Morgan also

enjoys volunteering at the Arboretum. She also received Highest Honor Award. Cassidy Newsome (Episcopal) plays on the EHS volleyball team and is a member of SOS (Students of Service) and the Admissions Club. She volunteered at the Houston Arboretum and the Nehemiah Center. She also works part time at Michael’s Cookie Jar.

Alena Peters (St. Agnes) plays field hockey and tennis for the St. Agnes Tigers. She was named MVP of her field hockey team and also named to the Honor Roll. She volunteers at Agape, babysits and has traveled to England and Austin.

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Jack Talkington (Episcopal) started on the Varsity lacrosse team this year and plans to play for C2C, a club lacrosse team in Dallas this summer. Gracey Wallace (Kinkaid) is on the Varsity track and cross country teams at Kinkaid. She participates in the Amnesty Club and the Foodie Club. Gracey enjoys volunteering at the Children’s Museum. She has received several honors for her photography, including an honorable mention

at the ATPI (Association of Texas Photography Instructors) and was selected to show in a gallery “How I See It” of Houston architectural photography taken by high school students. She also received the Scholastic Gold Key in photography.

BRITTNEY REESE Presbyterian School: 2007-2012 St. Agnes: 2012-present A huge milestone in Brittney’s life came from a church mission trip to the Dominican Republic. The trip didn’t focus on fancy organizations or fundraisers; instead, participants went directly to the people... to tiny, rural villages next to pastures or sugar cane fields, with small brick houses and clotheslines in the trees. One might think that a place with so much poverty would be gloomy; however, these villages were just the opposite.

Brittney shares, “The smiles on the kids’ faces as they grabbed our hands and showed us around their home, the laughter of the older women as one of us was assuaged by children playing tag, and the complete devotion to God that we saw as we sat with them in a small, crumbling church was an extremely humbling experience.”

This mission trip was a life-changing experience and was the motivation for her current involvement in charity. Brittney is part of the National Charity League, which is a mother-daughter organization that reaches out to the community through volunteer work and other philanthropies. At the start of her freshmen year, Brittney began to volunteer at the SPCA. She enjoys working with all the animals—especially the dogs. Brittney also volunteers at the Amazing Place, a day center for people with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Beginning as an Alpha student, Brittney grew up in the Presbyterian School and First Presbyterian Church community. Presbyterian School influenced the person Brittney is today. Her grandmother, Pat Anderson, also taught Chapel

at the School. Brittney credits the “phenomenal teachers and librarians for the growth of my English skills. I can’t thank my teachers enough for where I am today. Mr. Hanold, Mrs. Hughes and Mrs. Filardo—thank you!”

Looking toward the future, Brittney hopes to do something that involves her love for English and indulges her interest in languages. She plans to travel and live in different parts of the world to learn new things and new cultures. She hopes to be a research analyst or an international studies major and has aspirations to write a book or two!

Brittney’s advice for PS students? “Learn your vocabulary! Words are wonderful things and are crucial once you get to high school and college. Go outside of your comfort zone and chase after what you love. Life will throw you curve balls; some you’ll catch, and some you’ll miss. Don’t dwell on the negatives, those failed catches, or else you’re not going to go very far. Believe in the Lord. Walk in His light and path of righteousness. Have faith in Him and yourself. Do all of these things, and you’ll go far, far, far in life!”

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Kyle Zhu (St. John’s) is on the Maverick swim team and tennis team. He participates in Chess Club, Chorale, and Theater Crew. Kyle spends time volunteering at The Center and as an Eco-teen at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

2013 Elizabeth Berquist (St. Agnes) plays field hockey and softball for the Tigers. She is involved with Club Med, a club for students interested in a future in medicine, and Lunches of Love, a club committed to helping end childhood hunger in Rosenberg, Texas. Elizabeth visited Baylor University in Waco and also enjoyed traveling to Colorado with Lindsay Rogers (Class of ’13). She also traveled to England, Scotland and Germany. This summer she will travel to New York and Boston.

Julia Calaway (St. Agnes) enjoys being involved in Lunches of Love, Young Democrats Club, Model UN, Speech and Debate, Student Council, and the Red Cross Club. Julia reports that it has been a challenging, but great first year of high school. Lauren Childers (St. John’s) plays volleyball and lacrosse for the SJS Mavericks. She is a member of the Bible Study Club and Upper School Community Service. Lauren enjoys being a volunteer at Nora’s Home and Trinity Episcopal Church Joe Gobillot (St. John’s) plays basketball and baseball at St. John’s. He is a Life Scout and has traveled to Hawaii, New Jersey and California. Joe volunteers with Boy Scouts and West University Little League Challenger Division. He is an acolyte at St. John the Divine and has been a member of the WULL All Stars.

Alex Gueno (St. Thomas) plays football for the Eagles and enjoys community service opportunities at St. Thomas. Hannah Liter (St. Agnes) plays soccer and golf and is a member of the St. Agnes Student Council. Cooper Lueck (St. John’s) received a Varsity letter for swimming for the Mavericks as a freshman. He participated in SPC and was in multiple relays. Cooper is also involved in club swimming and traveled to San Antonio for TAGS where he swam three events. Next year, Cooper hopes to participate in Choir and a musical. He also enjoyed traveling to Winter Park, Colorado this year. Tess Peterson (St. Agnes) plays field hockey and is a member of The Pink Club and the That’s So Raven Club. She is also a member of the National Charity League and Girl Scouts. Tess

enjoyed traveling to Mexico, California and Austin and volunteering at Nehemiah Center, Toys for Tots, Houston Food Bank and Child Advocates. She was honored to be chosen to participate in the National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C. Katie McCulloch (Episcopal) is on the swim team for the Knights and is also part of Interact Club, Cooking Club and SOS (Students of Service). At EHS, Katie received the Effort Award and Honor Roll. She enjoys volunteering at Casa de Esperanza, Houston Food Bank and Kids Meals. Katie traveled to Costa Rica this year. David Minton (St. Thomas) is on the Eagle baseball team, made the Honor Roll and is a member of Columbian Squires (a Catholic service group at school). In the community, David volunteers at West University Little League Challenger division. David believes he is doing well in high school and credits PS for “a fantastic job of preparing me academically for high school.” Caroline Rippeto (Episcopal) played field hockey in the fall and played lacrosse this spring. She is in Young Republicans and Admissions Club. Caroline enjoys volunteering at Kids Meals and made Honor Roll this year.

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Emma Robinson (St. John’s) plays soccer for the SJS Mavericks and stays busy with the WHEE club (Women Helping Empower Each other), Young Life and African American Affinity Group. Eva Schneller (HSPVA) traveled to Austin this school year with the creative writers to visit the Texas book festival as well as the Harry Ransom Center and the House of Junk. She volunteered for HSPVA creative writing auditions and had a part time job at Murder by the Book. Eva won regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, including a gold key for a collection of poetry and an honorable mention for a single poem. Her work will also be considered for awards on a national level.

Emma Shea (St. John’s) plays singles for the St. John’s varsity tennis team. She loved being a ball kid at the U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championships at River Oaks Country Club again this year, and was privileged to work the championship match. Emma is looking forward to returning to the John Newcombe Tennis Ranch for camp this summer. She also appeared in several SJS

theater productions, earning membership in the International Thespian Society. Skyler Taten (Episcopal) is a member of the Varsity field hockey team and the Club Texas Pride field hockey team. Her teams travel across Texas and out of state. She served as Stage Manager for Legally Blonde, EHS’ spring musical. Skyler volunteers at Houston Food Bank and worked at the Houston Zoo as part of their zoo crew internship program. She was named to the Honor Roll. Morgan Thompson (Episcopal) plays on the Varsity softball team, is a member of SOS (Students of Service) and runs Varsity cross country. She enjoys volunteering at the Beacon and hopes to be SOS captain for her class. Morgan was named to the Honor Roll. Connor Watson (St. John’s) made the Varsity soccer team as a freshman for the Mavericks. He is a member of the Community Service Club and has served at several underprivileged schools this year.

Dana Wempe (Episcopal) has enjoyed being a cheerleader for the EHS Knights. She is also on the dance team, a member of Admissions Club and Republicans Club, and takes Honors classes. Dana volunteers at Houston Food Bank, Nehemiah Center and with NCL activities. Abbie Wrather (Episcopal) plays JV field hockey and Varsity softball. She volunteers for Challenger Baseball, Search, Houston Food Bank, EAC and Breast Cancer Walk. Abbie received Highest Honor Roll and Effort Award.

W A N T T O S H A R E Y O U R N E W S ? W E W O U L D L O V E T O H E A R F R O M Y O U . E M A I L L I Z Z I E V O S S , D E V E L O P M E N T A S S O C I AT E , AT L V O S S @ P S H O U S T O N . O R G .

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54 The Window

PORTRAIT OF A PANTHERGraduates of Presbyterian School have a carefully developed foundation of core values when they leave us. Respect, perseverance, courage, compassion, integrity, and gratitude characterize their shared journey through a challenging curriculum that enriches their minds, an eclectic fine arts program that captivates their spirits, comprehensive athletic and wellness programs that nurture their bodies, and service projects at every grade level that nourish their souls. Presbyterian School students emerge ready for so much more than just high school; they are ready for life!

OUR GRADUATES. . .• Seek through prayer, study,

and reflection to discern the guidance of their Creator in all their real-life situations.

• Embody a positive sense of self-confidence, self-worth, and security so that they believe deeply and take appropriate risks throughout their lives.

• Display a growth mindset, focusing on dedication and hard work, which create a lifelong love of learning and a resilience

that is at the heart of great accomplishment.

• Read and write critically, actively synthesizing information and making sense of it for themselves and others.

• Identify and solve problems creatively by analyzing disparate sets of data and then drawing novel conclusions.

• Engage themselves comfortably in communities and their many forms.

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Alumni Association 55

ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONIn its third year, the Presbyterian School Alumni Association continues to expand its horizons. During the 2013-2014 year we have seen an increase in attendance at our events, and we anticipate further growth with support from high school and college alumni.

Having a strong Alumni Association is crucial to promoting and supporting the reputation of Presbyterian School. In 2012, the PS Alumni Association was founded with the mission of connecting past and present students and building personal and professional relationships in an ever-changing social environment. Our Association provides a way for alumni to get together, connect, share ideas, and tell stories about the school we all love.

The Alumni Board is continuing to find ways to provide opportunities for alumni to connect in the coming months. We are excited for the future and are steadfast in our goals to create a successful and fun Alumni Association.

Katy Odom (Class of ’03), Blair Bradford (Class of ’04), and Chris Winters (Class of ’06)

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56 The Window

ALUMNI SUMMER REUNION

J U LY 3 1 , 2 0 1 3

ALUMNI CHRISTMAS REUNION

C L A S S O F 2 0 0 3 - 2 0 0 9 D E C E M B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 3

Top Left: Class of ‘08 alumni, Andrew Winters, Jack Hawkins, Maggie Elliott, Isidora

Stankovic, Blaine Williamson, Haley Manley, Jean Edwards and Leo Linbeck.

Top Right: Class of ‘03 alumni, Ben Clemenceau and Katy Odom, with Ms. Bev

Olmstead and Ms. Mary Pat Christou. Bottom Left: Class of ‘06 alumni, Chris

Winters and Katherine Egner. Bottom Right: Class of ‘04 alumni, Andrew

Sterling and Blair Bradford.

Top Left: Class of ‘03 alumni, Hannah Chesser and Katy Odom, with Ms. Kristi Brown. Top Middle: Class of ‘04 alum, Blair Bradford, with Ms. Marla Leyva and Ms. Ann Horne. Top Right: Class of ‘03 alumni, Ben Clemenceau, Kristen Winship, Alex Pons, Hannah Chesser, Katy Odom and Emma Ebbs. Bottom Left: Class of ‘06 alumni, Liz Hay, Julian Cooper, Mary Ashleigh Boles, Chris Winters and Taylor Burnett, with Ms. Andrea Hanhausen. Bottom Right: Alumni Anna Grace Hawkins (‘09), Jordan Dickinson (‘10) and Taylor Thompson (‘09).

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Alumni Association 57

Top Left: Class of ‘12 alumni, Suman Atluri, Alena Peters and Camille Williamson, with

Ms. Kate Hughes. Top Middle: Class of ‘12 alumni Morgan

Feanny, Kendyl Bree, Alexa Lednicky, Cassidy Newsome and Brittney Reese.

Top Right: Class of ‘13 alumni with Coach Ryan Hertlein and Ms. Susan Howard.

Bottom Left: Class of ‘13 alumni, Katie McCulloch and Emma Robinson, with

Mr. Carmen Druke. Bottom Middle: Class of ‘12 alumni, Aubrey

Calaway, Camille Williamson, Hunter Reinertsen-Forehand, Lerah Lockett, Suman

Atluri and Alena Peters. Bottom Right: Class of ‘11 alumni, Elizabeth

Copper and Katherine Ten Eyck.

Top Left: Karen Gonsoulin and Michelle Stewart with hostess, Suzanne Rippeto. Top Middle: Michelle Juden, Heidi Perrotta, Karen Davis and Laura Black. Top Right: Marilyn Cayce, Brenda Wempe, Debbie Hanna and Renee Hawkins. Bottom Left: Lisa Kretzschmar, Karen King, Nicki Hubbard, Florence Lewis and Stacey Geisler. Bottom Middle: Lisa Clemenceau and Evalyn Krudy. Bottom Right: GG Hsieh, Lisa Dell’Angelo, Angela Marcaccio, and Judy Bouillion.

ALUMNI CHRISTMAS

REUNION

C L A S S O F 2 0 1 0 - 2 0 1 3 D E C E M B E R 2 0 , 2 0 1 3

ALUMNI MOM’S REUNION

M A R C H 2 7, 2 0 1 4

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58 The Window

PS. STAY CONNECTEDCL ASS AGENTS C L A S S O F 2 0 1 4 Grace Graubart [email protected] Sachin Jaggi [email protected] C L A S S O F 2 0 1 3 Julia Calaway [email protected] Cooper Lueck [email protected] C L A S S O F 2 0 1 2 Aubrey Calaway [email protected] Suman Atluri [email protected] C L A S S O F 2 0 1 1 Katherine Ten Eyck [email protected] Akshay Jaggi [email protected] C L A S S O F 2 0 1 0 Kelly Buckner [email protected] Phillip James [email protected]

ALUMNI BOARD Chris Winters, President [email protected]

Katy Odom, Vice President [email protected] Blair Bradford, Social Chair [email protected] Clark Jacobs [email protected]

Ben Clemenceau [email protected]

ALUMNI PORTAL W W W . P S H O U S T O N . O R G / A L U M N I P O R TA L

Go to the portal for our alumni directory, ongoing alumni updates and more information on upcoming alumni events. All alumni have an individual login to access the portal.

FACEBOOK P R E S B Y T E R I A N S C H O O L A L U M N I

Like us on Facebook and stay up to date on current PS news.

CONTACT US

Presbyterian School 5300 Main Street Houston, Texas 77004713.520.0284 www.pshouston.org Parents of Alumni: Please forward this edition of The Window to your PS graduate if he or she no longer maintains a permanent address at your home. Please notify Lizzie Voss, Development Associate, at [email protected] of any address changes.

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Contact Us 2

CL ASS TRIPS. MUSICAL. L IFELONG FRIENDS. TEACHERS. ATHLETICS. MUSEUM PARTNERSHIPS. F IELD DAY. TECHNOLOGY. OUTDOOR EDUCATION CAMPUS. F IELD TRIPS. RODEO DAY. PARENTS. ART. RECESS. CL ASS PROJECTS. GREAT MOMENTS IN HISTORY. SPL ASH DAY. CHRISTMAS WORKSHOP. KINDERGARTEN CIRCUS. COMMUNIT Y SERVICE. PS CAMPUS. CHAPEL. MEXICAN MARKET. MIDDLE SCHOOL. K & 4TH BUDDIES. PS. WE LOVE YOU!

REMEMBERING THE BEST

IN THIS ISSUE

F A M I LY, S C H O O L A N D

C H U R C H U N I T E D I N T H E

E D U C AT I O N A N D S U P P O R T O F E A C H C H I L D .

PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL 5300 Main Street Houston, Texas 77004 www.pshouston.org BOARD OF TRUSTEES Efua Ankoma-Sey Kim Clark Lisa Coleman Nora Dobin Julie Harris Sharon Henry Laura Higley Ace Holley Brock Hudson Jane Joplin Sean Keenan, Treasurer Mary Knapp Bill Lee Lea Aden Lueck, Secretary Andrew McFarland Sam Murray, Vice Chairman Taylor Reid Jamey Rootes Judy Stanley Claudia Stewart, Chairman Tim Williamson Ex-Officio Members Reverend Dr. Jim Birchfield, FPC Pastor Dr. Mark Carleton, Headmaster ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP Dr. Mark Carleton, Headmaster Janet Fox, Academic Dean Christy Heno, Philip Cannon, Head of Middle School THE WINDOW Editor: Andrea Lawless Design: Lizzie Voss

Contributors: Frances Boswell Mimi Ervin Andi Georgsson A special thank you to the alumni and parents who contributed to this magazine. We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the printed information. Please send alumni updates or corrections to Lizzie Voss, Development Associate, at 713.620.6354 or [email protected].

C E L E B R AT I N G O U R 2 5 Y E A R H I S T O R Y F E AT U R E S T O R Y : 2 5 B E S T T H I N G S A B O U T P S4 6

C L A S S O F 2 0 1 4 L I F E R S32

A L U M N I A S S O C I AT I O N55

A L U M N I C L A S S U P D AT E S38

Head of Early Childhood/Lower School

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window

pr e sby t e r i a n s c h o ol Looking in on our Alumni

THE SPRING 2014

.

FEATURE STORY: 25 BEST THINGS

ABOUT PS

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS 1988.2013

5300 Main street houston, texas 77004

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Window 2014

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