it's all about ...

graduation 2005

Mission Statement The mission of The Steward School is to provide a high-quality college preparatory program that encourages students of varied talents and abilities to develop their unique strengths in academics, athletics and the arts, while instilling the values of responsible citizenship. The Steward School seeks and celebrates the individual talents of every student and is committed to offering its students an educational experience in an intimate and nurturing, yet challenging, environment.

The Steward School will:

• Champion small classes and limit the size of the overall student body so that it will have the ability to identlfy and develop the talents of each student.

• Provide opportunities for individual partiCipation to an extent not possible in a larger school.

• Ensure that each student acquires the values of honesty, integrity, and responsible citizenship by adherence to the Honor Code.

• Provide structure and discipline adequate to give each student a moral and ethical compass.

• Require that each child develops a sincere commitment to learn and grow.

• Attract an enthusiastic, dedicated, and talented faculty who rejoice in helping each child reach his or her potential.

• Ensure that the faculty and students are aware of and embrace the tenets of Steward's Mission Statement.

The Steward School admits students without regard to sex, race, color, relogion, and national origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally acoorded or made available to students at the school.

Blue & Gold is pubhshed three times a year by The Steward School . All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced with the written permlS!iion of The Steward School, Address changes should be sent to Barbara Werderman, Development Office, The Steward Schc 11600 Gayton Road, Richmond, Virginia 23238. Suggestions and comments regarding this publication may be e·malled to the editor, Tracy Lyn at lyncht@stewardsd1ool.org, or mailed to Sherilyn Smail, Publications Coordinator, The Steward School, 11600 Gayton Road, Richmond, Virgir 23238.

a summer edition of the Blue & Gold magazine summer 2005

cr+ssroads summer 2005

Published by The Steward School 11600 Gayton Road Richmond, Virginia 23238 (804) 740-3394

isit us on the web at

www.stewardschool.org

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Administration

Kenneth H. Seward Headmaster

Carolyn Brandt Assistant Head of School

lisa Dwelle Director of Finance

Scott Moncure Director of Admission

Butch Keller Head of Upper School

Mike Maruca Head of Middle School

Deborah Hanger Head of Lower School

aril farewells 27

Publication Staff

Tracy Lynch Writer and Co-Ednor

Sherilyn Smail Graphic Designer and Co-Editor

Paul Busse, New Images Photography, Ariel Skelley, Sherilyn Smail Contributing photographers

The editors have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy of information reported in this publication. We apologize for any inadvertent errors.

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1 Summer 2005 I

Welcome to the revival of the reincarnated Steward School Blue and Gold! I have spent much of this year finding my way to the center, or heart, of things. While

trying to find the path to the center, I have found that the way is not always clear. More than once, I have taken some wrong turns leading to dead-ends. Every so often, I would get lucky and find myself in the middle of the life of this vibrant community.

In fact, it has become almost a daily exercise. I begin on the periphery and work my way through the underbrush of appointments and meetings, agendas and events, clearing a little bureaucratic underbrush, here and there, until I find I am sincerely caring about the right principles, for the right reasons, in the right ways.

In many ways, my journey has been similar to those who have entered the doors of Steward throughout the years. We begin a journey to find ourselves, to discover more about our roles within and beyond these walls. We end up learning a great deal on these journeys. For some, the journey is just beginning. For others, like the Class of 2005, a new one lies ahead.

This "Crossroads" issue tries to capture and keep, for all of us, the culminating activities of the year, and for some the final events of their careers. I hope that this collective memory will help to remind us of who we are and what is important about The Steward School.

Ken Seward Headmaster

ij THE SrE\XARD SCHOOL

National Honor Society Induction

Ceremony

10-12 Winter Theatre

Production

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21 Junior Ring

Ceremony

1-4 Lower School

Theme Week and Mjl.YS Alternate

Program

MS/US Talent Night

11-12 Fall Theatre Production

Oliver! 21-24

Spring Musical

Lower School Holiday Program

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Athletic Jamboree

LS/MS Graduation

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 2

baccalaureate

Summer made its way to Steward­with bright sunny skies and record ­high temperatures- just as members

of the Class of 2005 were saying their goodbyes. Baccalaureate was held on Sunday, June 5, in the Cramer Center.

Throughout the years, Baccalaureate has

traditionally been the spiritual counterpart to the more ceremonial Graduation. In many ways, this year was no different.

Seniors walked through the audience of family and friends, down both main

aisles, and made their way onto the stage. An evening of spirited speeches, readings, and music followed, marking a transition from the hectic pace of the school year to the meaningful days ahead.

Personal touches to the ceremony made the evening memorable for seniors and their families. Assistant Head of School

Carolyn Brandt welcomed everyone to the beginning of the graduation ceremonies. Headmaster Ken Seward spoke of how Baccalaureate serves as a traditional "matching bookend" to the year's opening Convocation, marking both the end of a

year- long journey and the beginning of a whole new one. Class Sponsors Brenda

Turner and Todd Serr said goodbye to a

unique and memorable class. Turner wished three things for members of the class: gratitude for the past (for what

their families and Steward have given

them), faith in the future, and joy in the

present. Butch Keller, Head of The Upper School, used the music of Dave Matthews

to encourage graduates to reflect on their past and realize that, in Keller's words,

"Your whole life is ahead of you." In

between, the program featured songs sung by Steward students (including graduating seniors Katie Perkins and Kira

Fruechte) as well as inspirational readings

chosen by graduates and ranging from Vitamin C to Dr. Seuss.

But it was the break from tradition that

made this year's Baccalaureate as unique

as the senior class itself. This year, as Graduation approached, the Class of 2005 came together with the goal of making

small, but significant, changes to Steward's Baccalaureate traditions in

order to focus the ceremony more on the personality, contributions, and uniqueness of its members. For instance, at the Senior Program, which followed the dinner reception, each senior chose a faculty member to speak on his or her behalf. What resulted was a touching, funny, and

most definitely memorable tribute to the individual members of the class. Senior Katie Perkins loved the change: "It really showed how much the faculty cares about t he students." Her father, Russell Perkins, agrees whole-heartedly. "The emotion," he explains, "You can't plan that. It was just unbelievable. And you felt like you really knew every student who walked across the stage the next day."

For seniOrs, what resulted was an evening full of emotion and tributes that most will never forget. For the larger Steward community, the result is a whole new

Baccalaureate tradition for The Steward School--{)ne that is as unique and memorable as the Class of 2005.

On the warm and bright evening of June 6, The Steward School said its official

farewell to the Class of 2005. As seniors filed into the Athletic Center in Steward's traditional graduation attire-white dresses for girls and tuxes for boys-families,

friends, faculty and staff took pictures and smiled with pride at the accomplishments of this

talented class. Beautiful music, encouraging words, and warm laughs filled the air as seniors

prepared to take new steps into the future.

Class Vice President, Sarah Newcomb, welcomed the crowd to the evening's ceremony. She then presented the school with the Senior Class Gift, a fountain to be placed in a new garden

designed to honor the school's volunteers (see page 24 for a more detailed description of the

Class Gift). Katie Perkins, the first senior speaker, likened the road ahead to "a great journey," and urged her classmates to "pack your suitcase" with both "tangible and intangible items,"

such as responsibility, acceptance, perSistence, courage, and "last but not least, appreciation"-for family, friends, and the many memories of their time at Steward.

Morgan Hutchinson, President of the Class of 2005, began by thanking Lee Healey, on behalf

of the entire class, for all she has given them. Morgan explained that, although class members

appeared different on many levels, they had grown and worked together through the years, coming together this-their senior-year to embrace differences. She noted, "If one piece

was missing, the puzzle would not have been a complete picture." Headmaster Ken Seward

spoke next, praising the many accolades and accomplishments of this "cunning, eclectic, and

intuitive class." He spoke both with pride (noting, for instance, their acceptance at 58 colleges, their wide travels, and their many athletic contributions) and with humor (noting seniors'

"impressive list of injuries," the class love of animals, and the infamous senior prank).

Seward then called Fernand (Ferd) Baruch, Jr., Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and Butch

Keller, Head of the Upper School, to award diplomas. One by one, students walked across the

stage to receive the piece of paper they had waited many years to hold. Sons and daughters of faculty, staff, and Board members received their diplomas from their parents, a special

Steward touch. Rachael Meyers closed the ceremony, urging seniors to continue educating

themselves by asking questions, staying curious, and being independent thinkers. She handed

each senior a blank piece of paper to take along-representing the many possibilities

available on the road ahead.

The seniors then joined family and friends to take pictures and celebrate in a variety of ways.

Perhaps they ate a celebratory dinner out with their family. Maybe they took a beach trip to soak up the sun and let the reality of graduation sink in. One thing is for certain: the Class of

2005 has made its mark on Steward, and they will be missed.

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 4

Commencement Ceremony Awards

The following awards were presented at Graduation on June 6, 2005.

The Dr. Matilda D. Chalkley Award: Given in memory of Dr. Chalkley, grandmother of Elizabeth Chalkley Talmadge, '90, and Virginia Chalkley Gill, '92. This scholarship is given to a female Steward graduating senior who will attend Westhampton College at the University of Richmond : Morgan Hutchinson

The James V. Buis Athletic Scholarship: Given in memory of James V. Buis, Class of 1992, to a junior or senior student in good academic standing who has made a significant impact on the athletic program at The Steward School: Blair Sutton

The Brantley Blair Scott Leadership Scholarship: Given to the student or students who have demonstrated an appreciation of The Steward School Mission Statement, an involvement in extracurricular activities, both at school and in the community, an enthusiastic school spirit, and the ability to accept additional leadership roles: Kevin Bojarksi

The Michelle Anderson-Haigler Performing Arts Scholarship: Awarded to the student who most exemplifies the enthusiasm for performing and love of music, which characterized Michelle Anderson­Haigler, a member of the Class of 1991: Katie Perkins

The Spartan Club Award: Presented to student athletes who are recognized for their major team contributions, who inspire their fellow teammates, who have made significant contributions to the School community, and who have demonstrated considerable leadership qualities. Morgan Hutchinson and Chris Harvey

The Parents' Association Scholarship I : Awarded to a member of the senior class for whom the decision to enroll at The Steward School was key to better achieving his or her potential and who has shown the most growth- academic, social, and/or behavioral--5ince his or her arrival: Caroline Ryan

5 I crossroads Summer 2005 I

kevi nbojarski Student at Steward since 2001, 9th grade

ashleYcooper Student at Steward since 2002, 10th grade

dreWnorris Student at Steward since 2003, 11th grade

b rebeauford Student at Steward since 1999, 7th grade

ch riSharvey Student at Steward since 1999, 7th grade

ca rte r shamburger Student at Steward since 1999, 7th grade

• Carrleryan Student at Steward since 2002, 10th grade

briandemo Student at Steward since 2004, 11th grade

rOYhamilton Student at Steward since 2001, 9th grade

michaelmorton Student at Steward since 1999, 7th grade

sarahnewcomb Student at Steward since 1992, Kindergarten

megwhite Student at Steward since 2002, 10th grade

blairsutton Student at Steward since 1998, 6th grade

The Parents' Association Scholarship II: Awarded to a member of the senior class who spent the majority of his or her school career at Steward, has demonstrated consistent diligence in the classroom, and has enhanced the Steward community in an understated, yet critical, manner: Alison Norton

The President's Award for Educational Excellence: Recognizes academic success in the classroom. Students must earn a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.S or higher on a 4.0 scale: Hunter Berlinguet, Ashley Cooper, Benjamin Giglio, Nathan Jamerson, Rachel Loria, Rachael Meyers, and Wallace Young

The Academic Award: Awarded by The Steward School Program Committee to those members of the senior class with a G.P.A. of 3.75 or higher in a challenging academic program: Hunter Berlinguet, Benjamin Giglio, Nathan Jamerson, and Rachael Meyers

The Alumni Award: Presented annually by the Alumni Association to the senior who best exemplifies the school spirit and commitment essential to the continued success of The Steward School: Katie Perkins

The Stephen Daniel Pless Award is presented annually to the member of the senior class who best exemplifies the spirit and perseverance demonstrated by Stephen Daniel Pless during his years at Steward before his untimely death: Rachel Loria

The Faculty Award: Presented each year to that member or members of the senior class who best exemplify the qualities of character, integrity, leadership, and responsibility: Morgan Hutchinson and Katie Perkins

The Dixon Award: Named for Helen Dixon, founder of The Steward School who was present at the Commencement Ceremony, this award is presented annually to the member of the senior class who has made outstanding contributions to all phases of life at The Steward School : Rachael Meyers

The Headmaster's Award: Presented each year by the Headmaster to members of the senior class who are the "unsung heroes" of the School, contributing to the life of the School with enthUSiasm, energy, and spirit: Chris Brown, Ashley Cooper, Brian Demo, and Carter Shamburger

I crossroads Summer 200S I 6

Upper School 2004-2005 Awards

The Upper School held its 2004-2005 Recognition Awards ceremony on Friday morning, May 20, 2005. The following students were recognized during the ceremony. The names of graduating seniors are in bold.

Departmental Book Awards Awarded by faculty for excellence and enthusiasm Within an area of study

English: Carter Oxford Shamburger Visual Arts: Douglas Matthew Smith Foreign Language: Rachael Elaine Meyers History: Rachael Elaine Meyers Mathematics: Rachael Elaine Meyers Performing Arts: Ryan Spencer Childress Science: Benjamin Charles Giglio

Service to the School Award

Outstanding Beadle Award: Given to a student who has demonstrated exceptional service to the school and its community: M'Ussa Levitt

Extracurricular Awards

Interact Club Award: Recognizes a student or students for outstanding participation and contribution to the community: Jessica Wray Powell

Richmond Times-Dispatch Athletes of the Year Award: Given to a male and a female student who exemplify athletic commitment and performance: Morgan Ashley Hutchinson and Kevin Michael Bojarski

Leadership Awards

Steward School Student Council Association Awards: Recognizes the commitment of classroom representatives to the student government process and activities:

Ninth Grade: Charlie Beebe, Micah Keller, Mary Martha DeLaney, Polly Cannella

Tenth Grade: Monica l. Casper

Eleventh Grade: Taylor Christian, Teri Fitzgerald, Whitney Frost, Rachel Petock

Twelfth Grade: Chris Brown, Rachael Meyers, Katie Perkins, Blair Sutton

SCA Officers Awards: Given to the school officers to acknowledge service and commitment to the school : Secretary: Sammy George Treasurer: Mary Warden Good Vice President: Beth Howard President: Louisa Kendig

7 I crossroads Summer 2005

rachaelmeyers Student at Steward since 1992, Kindergarten

j usti nsaunders Student at Steward since 2001, 9th grade

• Jam eSschreiber Student at Steward since 2001, 9th grade

• magglepope Student at Steward since 2004, 12th grade

• pi pnikOlenkO Student at Steward since 2003, 11th grade

morga nhutchinson Student at Steward since 1993, 1st grade

rya nchildress Student at Steward since 1999, 7th grade

• erlnkiker Student at Steward since 2001, 9th grade

b raxtOnpruitt Student at Steward since 2002, 10th grade

bra d hendrick Student at Steward since 2003, 11th grade

claYcarter Student at Steward since 2002, 10th grade

sea n urquhart Student at Steward since 2003, 11th grade

ABCD Award: Presented each year to a member of the SCA who, as voted on by the president and sponsors, goes above and beyond the call of duty in devotion to The Steward School community: Beth Howard

Upper School Honor Council Awards: Given annually to students who embody all of the standards, principles, and responsibilities of the school : Laura E. Skove Megan L. Rhodes M. Ryan Delaney Kathleen E. Kurilecz Carter O. Shamburger l. Wallace Young Kathryn J. Kasper (President)

Prefect Awards: Recognizes the invaluable role of prefects, the most prestigious position in the school. These students are elected by their peers to serve the student body as leaders in all aspects of school life: Benjamin Charles Giglio Rachael Elaine Mevers Sarah Hull Newcomb Brooke Tatum Secrest

Hugh O'Brian Leadership Seminar Award: Presented to a tenth grader who, as selected by faculty, demonstrates the most leadership potential. Winner attends a leadership conference with other student leaders from across Virginia: Kathryn Julia Kasper

The College of William and Mary Leadership Award: Presented to a student who best exemplifies the spirit of The Steward School-for leadership, scholarship, and loyalty to the School and the community. Winner attends honorary weekend festivities hosted by William and Mary: Scidney Adonis Morris

Interfaith Council of Greater Richmond Award: Recognizes a student who is committed to improving human relations everywhere and who continually fosters strong relationships across different races, religions, and nationalities: Katherine Marie Perkins

Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award: Given to the student-nominated by faculty and voted on by the senior class- who demonstrates strong leadership qualities such as dependability, service, and patriotism: Katherine Marie Perkins

(Continued on page 9)

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 8

Academic Awards

Honor Roll: Given to students for out­standing academic performance and for consistently achieving Honor Roll for all three marking periods and first semester:

9th Grade: Hope K. Frank Elizabeth E. Hickman Kelley S. Trimmer

10th Grade: Shawnae L. Claxton Alexander M. Godschalk W. Tyler Harris Michael Reazin Megan L. Rhodes N. Riley Sistrunk III R. cameron Taylor Jonathan L. Wauford

11th Grade: W. Afton Bartlett Kathleen E. Kurilecz M'Ussa A. Levitt Elizabeth A. Newins Rachel L. Petock Anne R. Stiles

12th Grade: Kira K. Fruechte Marie-Luise Meyer Braxton C. Pruitt

Alternate Program Awards: Given to students who exhibit exemplary spirit and adventure toward the Alternate Program experience: James Christopher Brown carter Ann DeCook Lindsay Carter Lillard Ryan Crawford Byrne Carter Ann Fitzgerald Kelsey Daniels Mohring John Reazin

Economics Most Outstanding Student Award: Acknowledges the most outstanding participant in this year's program: Marie-Luise Meyer

The American Association of Teachers of French Award: Recognizes a student for outstanding achievement on the National French Contest exam. This student placed at the national level: Laura Elizabeth Skove

The American Classical League and National Junior Classical League Award: This certificate of merit recognizes a student's outstanding performance on the National Latin Examination : Sarah Greenlee

University of Rochester Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award: Given to the student who exhibits outstanding academic achievement and superior intellectual promise in the field of science: Michael Ryan DeLaney

9 I crossroads Summer 2005 I

a usti ncarter Student at Steward since 2001, 9th grade

wiliclOU9h Student at Steward since 1999, 7th grade

natha njamerson Student at Steward since 1996, 4th grade

• • JeSSICapowel1 Student at Steward since 1999, 7th grade

Ii ndSaYlillard Student at Steward since 1998, 6th grade

chriSbrown Student at Steward since 2000, 8th grade

alisonnorton Student at Steward since 1994, 2nd grade

kati e perkins Student at Steward since 1999, 7th grade

ki rafruechte Student at Steward since 2004, 12th grade

IUIUmeyer Student at Steward since 2004, 12th grade

wi Ilchristian Student at Steward since 2002, 10th grade (not pictured in above photograph)

rachel loria Student at Steward since 2001, 9th grade (not pictured in above photograph)

University of Rochester Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award in Humanities and Social Sciences: Recognizes a student who exhibits leadership, academic achievement, and a demonstrated commitment to understanding and addressing difficult social issues: Kathleen Elizabeth Kurilecz

Special Recognition Awards

K-12 Award: Recognizes seniors who have attended Steward since Kindergarten : Rachael Elaine Meyers sarah Hull Newcomb Annie Laurie Wise

Randolph-Macon Woman's College Book Award: Given to an outstanding tenth-grade female student who possesses leadership and academic potential. This student qualifies for a merit scholarship if she chooses to attend Randolph-Macon Woman's College: Kathryn Julia Kasper

Randolph-Macon Book Award: Presented each year to a well-rounded eleventh-grade student who demon­strates strong leadership skills and academic ability: Anne Randolph Stiles

West Point Leadership Award: Awarded to a rising senior who demonstrates strong leadership and exceptional performance in academics, athletiCS, community service, and citizenship: Adam Timothy Lonon

University of Richmond Office of Admission Book Award: Presented to an outstanding junior who exhibits extraordinary academic and extracurric­ular leadership: Beverley Anne Borum

2005 Jefferson Book Award: Given annually by the Richmond Chapter of the University of Virginia Alumni Association. Recognizes an outstanding student who demonstrates leadership and honor both in and out of the class­room: Michael Ryan Delaney

WRIC Best in Class Award: Awarded to the senior whose academic performance has placed him or her at the top of the graduating class: Benjamin Charles Giglio

Junior Marshals: The honor of escorting the senior class at graduation is given to two juniors, chosen by the Program Committee, who exemplify Steward's values of academic and community leadership: Michael Ryan Delaney Elizabeth Shelby Newins

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 10

Creating Tradition, One Family Member at a Time Some may say that an era ended when Katie Perkins graduated with The Steward School Class of 2005. Her entrance into the "real world" was made official on June 6 when her father, Board Member Russell Perkins, handed Katie her diploma and gave her a warm hug. Both of Katie's brothers, Will and Rusty, had graduated from Steward before her, and Russell had handed them their diplomas as well.

Many know of the Perkins family's commitment to and involvement in the School, but perhaps not everyone knows that Steward's history is rich with these ties: there has been a member of the extended Perkins family at Steward every year since its founding in 1972.

Russell and his wife, Debbie-high school sweethearts who both graduated from Collegiate-have long been familiar with what makes The Steward School unique. Both of Debbie's brothers, Randy and Scott Howard, attended Steward. Debbie's cousin, Jill Narron, attended Steward K-12, and Jill's brother, John Ross, also attended. Will, Rusty, and Katie Perkins are the most recent graduates in a long line of attendees.

Debbie's mother, Rose Marie Howard, volunteered in the Steward School Store when Katie was a little girl. Katie, who attended Collegiate at the time, used to come to "help" her grandmother work and came to know Steward and its faculty and staff when she was quite young. Katie says she thus felt like a part of the school long before coming here in her more official role as a student in the seventh grade.

Russell, who has served on the Board in various capacities for the past nine years, is committed to Steward because the school is committed to its students. He speaks with pride and gratitude when discussing what his three children learned-most importantly about them­selves-while attending Steward.

According to Headmaster Ken Seward, the Perkins family adds more to Steward than their volunteerism or accomplishments demonstrate. "We're such a young school," he says, " that we haven't yet been able to form a sense of legacies. The Perkins family is doing that. They are adding to our history."

No doubt Katie and especially Russell have seen a great deal of change during their years at Steward. What has changed the most? For Russell, it is the school's physical plant. "We've more

11 I crossroads Summer 2005 I

h u nterber,inqUet Student at Steward since 1998, 6th grade

waynebryan Student at Steward since 2003, 11th grade

• annlewise Student at Steward since 1992, Kindergarten

lindleYflOhr Student at Steward since 1999, 7th grade

wa IlaceVoung Student at Steward since 1997, 5th grade

congerkennedV Student at Steward since 2003, 11th grade

SarahmeigS Student at Steward since 2002, 10th grade

ca ry thompson Student at Steward since 1997, 5th grade

ben9i9,iO Student at Steward since 2001, 9th grade

brittneYbertozzi Student at Steward since 2000, 8th grade

I au re n malizia Student at Steward since 2001, 9th grade (not pictured in above photograph)

b rookesecrest Student at Steward since 2003, 11th grade (not pictured in above photograph)

than doubled in size since I've been around." He proudly discusses the intention behind the growth. "We put the physical plant first," he explains, "and then worried about how to fill it with students," a process that has served the students well. "We've done 25 years of building in 5 years," he continues, and the addition of buildings such as the Upper School, the Athletic Center, and the Cramer Center, "has really afforded students opportunities at a much faster rate."

Katie agrees, noting that the look of the school has been the biggest change. "The structure of it---{!efinitely. And it's given us accessibility to more of what we can participate in-sports, the arts, and so on."

But most important to Katie and Russell-and, no doubt, to all involved with the school-is what has stayed the same throughout the years. For Katie, it is "the school's personality." "Everyone at Steward has managed to stay who they are no matter how much the school has changed," she continues. For her, it's about "the spirit. other schools may claim to have spirit, but we have that family spirit. We have the warmth."

Russell concurs, "You are not a number here; you're a person." The closeness extends across students, faculty, and parents and includes a commitment to each individual student. "So many times when you grow like we've grown, you lose the mission of the school," he con­tinues, "But here, they don't do that. They keep it central to what they do."

Both feel a strong, lasting connection to Steward. Russell has just begun another three-year commitment to the Board. And "Steward hasn't seen the last of me," Katie laughs. So, does Katie Perkins's graduation mark the end of an era? Probably not. Most likely, it represents the beginning of an involved and beloved family's future at The Steward School.

The Perkins Family; L to R: Debbie, Will, Katie, Russell and RUsty.

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 12

Crossing Continents and Cultures Throughout this school year, students of The Steward School grew in many ways, as each learned more about themselves, their classmates, and the world around them. For no one is this more true than for Zainuiluah Ghaznam (known affectIon­ately as "Zain"), an international student who spent this year at Steward-thousands of miles away from his home in Afghanistan and worlds apart from the culture he has known since his birth.

Zain is only one of the students in Steward's thriving International Student program. Over the past seven years, under the guidance of Elizabeth Griggs Robertson, the program's director, students have come here to study from ail six inhabited continents. This year, students hailed from countries such as Germany, Vietnam, the Netherlands, and Korea, among others. Students enroll through International Exchange (I.E.) programs or as a result of either relocating to Richmond with their families or moving in with relatives. Those students not living with family members stay with host families who offer their homes and support.

International students are faced with unique challenges and opportunities. Along the way, students must overcome obstacles in language, culture, and educational backgrounds. Over time, they are exposed to educational, athletic, and artistic opportunities often unavailable to them in their native countries. Just as exciting for Robertson is what current Steward students learn from their interactions with the visiting students: "One of the most beautiful things that happens is when kids who have no reason to share something so important [as their pasts and their lives back home) actually do it, share it." The international students enrich learning at all social and academic levels, she continues. Through what they offer in all classes-from history, to English, to comparative religion-

Zain holding his art work with Headmaster, Ken Seward

13 I crossroads Summer 200S I

Butch Keller, Head of the Upper School, uses one word to describe the 2004-2005 school year: exciting. Across al l curricula, the entire year

featured activities, programs, and educational opportu­nities designed with the express purpose to enhance what was going on inside the busy classrooms and celebrate the personalities, strengths, and contributions of students in grades 9 through 12. The year was exciting, too, as Upper School students not only continued to celebrate Steward time-honored traditions but irnplemented new ones, created with student needs in mind.

And, as it always does this tirne of year, the Upper School (and the entire Steward community) said its goodbye to the Senior Class, who graduated on June 6. Keller will rniss the class, but he smiles knowing what they will take away from their years at Steward. "We have kids who are leaving loving Steward," he says.

Brenda Turner, one of the Senior Class sponsors, will most miss the personalities. "What 1 really loved about this class," she explains, "is that they are independent thinkers. They were not afraid to voice their opinions, and they were willing to accept the consequences of their actions." Ken Seward, Headmaster, describes the seniors in this way: "This was a class of unique individuals-each powerful in his or her own right." He continues, "I found the senior class to be full of energy, positive spirit, openness, and caring."

Next year looks to be just as rewarding for Upper School students, Keller says. "The whole Upper School is excited about both ends of the spectrum," from the freshmen to the seniors. The riSing freshman class, he states, "is bringing with it many strengths as individuals, and then collectively they're bringing a new dynamic the whole Upper School is excited about." Additionally, Keller looks forward to next year's senior class, who promises to be "diverse: in their thinking, priorities, and strengths-academically, artistically, athletically, and as people." What will result, as the Steward community knows, will be another year full of accomplishments and accolades and- perhaps most importantly- fun .

The 2004-2005 school year offered Upper School students the opportunity to partiCipate in a wide variety of activities and events, some of which are highlighted below:

• Involvement in the Arts: Keller explains that there has been an "explosion" in the Upper School's involvement in the Fine Arts. From visiting artists, to the photography exhibit, to the overwhelming participation in Spring Talent Night, to the involvement of Upper School students in all performances (such as this winter's One Acts), art is truly "a vibrant part of what we do at Steward."

• Division Interaction: This spring, the Chemistry students worked with Lower School students on science experiments, an activity that both groups enjoyed tremendously. Activities such as this-among others this year and in the works for next-"really bring the Steward community together," says Keller.

• Spartan Spirit Day: This fun-filled day featured a parade, complete with student-made floats, as well as a Fall Bazaar in the Athletic Center. Soccer and Field Hockey games added to the activities.

• Senior Egg Hunt: Organized by Lee Healey and the Parents' Association, who hid several hundred Easter eggs on the school's grounds, this spring activity proved to be a good time for everyone. Seniors hunted for the eggs, which contained candy and other prizes, and then celebrated with a cookout hosted by Mr. Secrest and Mr. Keller.

• Alternate Program: The Upper School Alternate Program gives students a chance to go into the world and experience what life may be like after school is behind them . Students choose from three options: a business internship, a community service project, or travel abroad with one of the school groups. This year, students interned and volunteered in every field imaginable in over eight states, while others traveled to Spain, Italy, or France. The lessons learned will last a lifetime.

• Upper School Field Trip: The entire Upper School participated in this trip to Washington, D.C., where students divided up according to interest to learn more about the behind-the­scenes world of the Arts. The day culminated in attendance at a production of Big River at Ford's Theatre.

• Prom: Always a highlight of end-of-year activities, this year's prom was held on May 14 at Westwood. Students danced and enjoyed the evening "Under the Stars." Keller explains that all the hard work in planning was worth it. "The juniors did an excellent job." And the Post Prom Party CP3"), according to Keller, "was a huge success"- a success he attributes to all the parents involved in the party-planning process.

• Field Day: These day-long activities offered students a chance to celebrate the end of the school year. Eighth graders joined the fun, and students were treated to a cookout, the music of student band Chick Weed, a movie, a water balloon fight, and a surprise breakfast of over 600 pancakes!

international students show Steward students that "everything they touch and learn is connected to another part of the world somehow."

lain was able to attend Steward this year through a unique program sponsored by the American Councils, which gets its funding through the U.S. State Department. Thousands of Afghan students applied for the opportunity to come to the United States for a year to learn about life in America and, more speCifically, about community service education. lain attended a mock high school in Kabul for a month before being accepted, along with only 19 others, to the innovative program.

The program's goal is to encourage and strengthen relationships and understandings between the youth-and thus the future­of America and Afghanistan. While he has been here, lain has been responsible for performing, according to Mrs. Robertson, "huge amounts of volunteer work," the lessons from which he will take back to Kabul; there he will be charged with establishing volunteer programs in his home town, a city desperately in need of such assistance from its own residents.

lain has learned more about himself than he ever expected. The first couple of months, he explains, were difficult as he struggled with language problems and cultural barriers. Slowly, and with the help of Mrs. Robertson and especially through other international students, lain started feeling more at home, happier with what he was learning and experiencing, comfortable with the friends he was making. The most important lesson he has learned is one that spans cultures. "We see how people are when we are here," he says of his experiences and those of his fellow international students, "And we see that we are all the same. It was a great experience."

lain formed perhaps his most special bond not with a person, but with a new passion: art. "Art was really great for me," he explains. "I knew at home I could be good, but I didn't have any access to supplies and things, like I did here." According to Rugene Paulette, lain's art teacher, "He has a raw, natural talent. Once he saw it, he was hooked. And he just blew everyone away!"

The legacies left by international students enrich the Steward community long after they have gone. More students are on the way-approximately 13 will join the student body in the fall from as far away as Taiwan and Vietnam. lain and three other students will be leaving the interna­tional program this year: Mary Luise Meyer and Kira Fruechte, from the Class of 2005, and junior Maja Preuss will be returning home as well . They will be missed, but their presence will remain.

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 14

Middle School Awards The following students were noted for their contributions to the Middle School at the Middle School Final Assembly, held in the Cramer Center on Friday, June 10.

Honor Roll

Sixth Grade: Marie Belt, Sarah Burroughs, Kate Farmer, Brooke Faison, Anne Good, Matt Hall, Elizabeth Jones, Taylor Karmolinski, Megan McGhee, Claire McKeown, Alex Newman, Michael Noffsinger, Emily Norman, Holly Paucke, Maya Pendleton, Kevin Pierce, Tanner Roe, Jake Rowe, Rachel Wilcox, Elisa Worrell

Seventh Grade: Brendan Auman, Chip Brierre, Samantha Bisger, Taylor Booth, Ashley Dawson, Jess DeBell, Allen Edwards, Sam Elliott, Grace Henderson, Jeremy Hillner, Hayden Hodges, Ben Leahy, Ryan McKeown, Natalie Oldfield, Hayley Redmond, Patrick Strecker, Mary Stuart

Eighth Grade: Christine Craig, Alex Cummings, Keri Drummond, David Dwyer, Madison Ellis, Beth Farmer, Emily Hazzard, Christine Kasper, Sam Keller, Connor Kelley, Jennifer Paucke, Kelsea Pieters, William Shimer, Lianne Sisson, Samantha Spangler, Veronica Tharp, Sarah Young

Headmaster's List

Sixth Grade: A. Stuart Good, Holly Paucke, Maya Pendleton

Seventh Grade: Samantha Bisger, Taylor Boot, Grace Henderson, Jeremy Hillner, Hayden Hodges

Eighth Grade: Madison Ellis, Christine Kasper, Jennifer Paucke, William Shimer

Faculty Honor Roll

Sixth Grade: Kevin Pierce, Sarah Burroughs, Holly Paucke, Eleanor Jones, Tanner Roe, Katherine Farmer, Meredith Thompson

Seventh Grade: Eleanor Towers, Grace Henderson, Chip Brierre, Natalie Oldfield, Hayley Redmond, Mary Stuart, Thomas Davis

Eighth Grade: David Dwyer, Christine Kasper, Madison Ellis, Keri Drummond, Jennifer Paucke, Veronica Tharp, Skylar MacDonald

President's Award for Educational Excellence: Christine Craig, Alexandra Cummings, Keri Drummond, David Dwyer, Madison ElliS, Christine Kasper, Diana Keith, catherine Lillard, Jennifer Paucke, William Shimer, Lianne Sisson, James Stewart, Devin Wang, Sarah Young

Highest Academic Average: William Shimer

Spelling Bee Champion: Emily Hazzard

National Latin Exam Gold Medal Winner: William Shimer

15 I crossroads Summer 2005 I

A lthough three years may seem like a short time in the life of a student, the faculty, staff, parents, and even students of the Middle School know

that the three years spent within its walls are signifi­cant ones. They mark a time full of growth, change, and self-discovery. This school year, the Middle School continued to reach out to its students through educational, artistiC, and extracurricular programs designed with their needs and interests in mind.

Mike Maruca, Head of the Middle School, knows a great deal about Middle School students. "Our students are changing in every conceivable way," he explains. "They become aware in an entirely new way of the world around them- family, friends, school, and home life." Joan Cameron, Division ASSistant, agrees. "In Middle School, students are trying to figure out who they are," she says, pointing to the important role the Steward community plays in the process: "The size of the School enables the faculty and staff to really know these students, to develop the relationships outside of academics that are just so important."

These relationships are exactly what make the Middle School years at Steward so special, according to Maruca. "Clearly, the highlight of being here is the kids. They are just easy to love-they're fun, they're goofy." One such group of students is this year's graduating eighth-grade class. Their sense of humor will be missed, says Maruca, but they've left behind an appropriate gift: a stone park bench for the Waddell Terrace engraved with the word, "Laugh."

Throughout the year, Middle School students were involved in a number of activities to enhance their self-discovery and learn more about their roles in the world around them. The following highlights are among the most memorable of the 2004-2005 school yea r:

• Ha bitat for Humanity: Students held numerous fund raisers, selling everything from smoothies to exam survival kits. Each group gave half of their profits to Goochland County's Habitat for Humanity and half to their grade's class fund. Students raised more than $4,000 total.

• Blue 8< Gold Competitions: Students competed in both athletic and academic competitions on many Friday afternoons. Bev Harris and Matt Sadler coordinated the athletic competitions, and Mike Maruca coordinated the academic competitions.

• Angel T ree Project: Sponsored by Sal ly Plotkin's advisory, with generous help from Mrs. Eleanor Towers, Blair's mother. Advisories each collected money and bought toys, clothes, and bicycles for disadvantaged children. It was a huge success.

• seA Grade-Level Pancake Breakfasts: The SCA sponsored breakfasts for students and their parents in each grade. Coordinated by faculty, class sponsors, and room mothers, who helped prepare and serve the food. Proceeds went to the grade level's class fund and Habitat for Humanity.

• Seventh- and Eighth-Grade Dance: Students enjoyed dressing up (for the first time in semi-formal attire) and dancing the night away in the Middle School Dining Commons. Coordinated by eighth-grade class sponsors Louise Robertson and Matt Sadler. A great time was had by all.

• Prejudice Awareness Summit: Sponsored by Jewish Women International and the Junior League, this event was held at the Riehm group of seventh- and eighth-grade participants

• Field Day: This fun-filled day in May allowed activities, a cookout on the Wadell Terrace, and Education department.

ond Holocaust Museum and featured a small

students and faculty a time to enjoy athletic events coordinated by the Physical

Subject Awards

Art: Sixth Grade: Rachel Wilcox; Seventh Grade: Samuel Elliot; Eighth Grade: Jennifer Paucke

computer: Sixth Grade: Stuart Good; Seventh Grade: Celeste Nash; Eighth Grade: James Dooley

English: Sixth Grade: Kevin Pierce; Seventh Grade: Mary Stuart; Eighth Grade: Emily Hazzard

Foreign Language: Seventh Grade (Spanish): Samantha Bisger; Eighth Grade (Spanish): Christine Kasper; Seventh Grade (Latin) : Hayden Hodges; Eighth Grade (Latin): William Shimer; Seventh Grade (French): Grace Henderson; Eighth Grade (French): Christine Craig

History: Sixth Grade: Maya Pendleton; Seventh Grade: Robert Watscn; Eighth Grade: Christine Craig

Math: Sixth Grade: Kevin Pierce; Seventh Grade: William Belt; Eighth Grade: Christine Kasper

Choral Music: Sixth Grade: Holly Paucke; Seventh Grade: Thomas Davis; Eighth Grade: Danielle Fraizer

I nstrumental Music: Sixth Grade: Rachel Wilcox; Seventh Grade: Grace Henderson; Eighth Grade: David Dwyer

Physical Education/Health: Sixth Grade: Tanner Roe, Matthew Hall; Seventh Grade: Blair Towers, Andrew Dale; Eighth Grade: Elizabeth Farmer, David Dwyer

Science: Sixth Grade: Kevin Pierce; Seventh Grade: Jeremy Hillner; Eighth Grade: William Shimer

Theatre: Sixth Grade: Eleanor Jones; Seventh Grade: Roland Brierre IV; Eighth Grade: Diana Keith

Grade Level Achievement Awards: Sixth Grade: Tanner Roe; Seventh Grade: Kelsey Kurdts; Eighth Grade: Skylar Macdonald

The Steward Award: Awarded to the student who best

exemplifies the characteristics of integrity, commitment to academic achievement, high moral standards, and sensitivity

to others: David Dwyer

• Faculty/Staff Basketball Game: The faculty won! Eighth-Grade Class of 2005 • Alternate Program: This spring, eighth graders attended the Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing, in southwest Virginia, where they partiCipated in experiential education and team-building programs. Sixth and seventh graders participated in "Discovering Richmond," which divided students into groups to explore one of five behind-the-scenes looks at our city: the River; Business and Technology; Ghosts, Ghouls, and Graveyards; Sports in Life; or Arts in Action.

Robert Brian Ball Elisabeth Walker Bryan Hannah McKinley Byrne Michele Lynn Casper Christine Marie Craig Alexandra Reed Cummings Barrett William Deacon James Armistead Dooley Keri Danielle Drummond David Christian Dwyer Madison Mackenzie Ellis Elizabeth Switzer Farmer Mary Danielle Fraizer Emily Snow Friend Emily Lauren Hazzard Chloe Hampton Higgins

Peter Van Alstyne Howard William Colson Perkins Christine Anne Kasper Kelsea Lauren Pieters Oiana Jean Keith Hilary Elizabeth Durfee Saunders Samuel Edward Keller Willam Dana Shimer Connor Bertraum Kelley Lianne Alexandra Sisson Rachel Rose Kewer Chaviess Anne Smith-Harrison Halim Kim Rebecca Phoebe Smyth Charles Raymond Leech James E.B. Stuart Eliza Corbin Leitch Veronica Maria Tharp Catherine McCandlish Lillard Devin Elizabeth Wang Mary Skylar Macdonald Jerry Thomas Wauford Hunter Woodward Meakin Nathan Kingsley Willett Heather Michelle Mitchell Carnes Harper Willhite Keith Michael Murphy Edwin Wortham VI Hannah Lee Nevers Sarah Elizabeth Gibson Young Jennifer Evelyn Paucke

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 16

It's no matter that the Lower School consists of the youngest students in Steward's lowest

grade levels. The faculty, staff, and students of the Lower School all feel like they're on top.

Deborah Hanger, Head of the Lower School, has nothing but the most pos­itive things to say about all aspects of the school, especially the nurturing, supportive and involved faculty and parents. But it is the children, she believes, who make the Lower School the spirited and alive place that it is. "They are just models," she explains. "They are kind-spirited, generous, intelligent, curious. It's a gift to be here every day."

The 2004-2005 school year gave Lower School students many opportunities to learn and to shine. Throughout the year, the faculty and students found ways to celebrate what makes the Lower School so special. From the kindergarten field trip to the zoo to the school-wide art show held in the spring, Lower School students managed to stay actively involved in all aspects of their learning-both in and out of the classroom. Hanger points out that

17 I crossroads Summer 2005 I

such involvement would not be possible, however, without the time and support of parents. Without their commitment, as well as that of the faculty, which Hanger praises highly, these special days (and countless others throughout the year, such as field trips, speakers, and activities with other Steward students) could not take place.

Below is just a sampling of the events and activities celebrated this year in the Lower School:

• Destination Imagination: This exciting program, which ran from November to March for students in grades 3-5, gives children the chance to "think outside the box," according to Hanger. Participants work with faculty and parents and as teams on a variety of teambuilding activities and creative projects. This year, three teams competed in the regional competition, and one team placed third, which is quite an accomplish­ment. This event was spearheaded by Mr. Chris Tickle.

• Invention Convention: The entire third grade partiCipated in this exciting activity, which highlighted

children's

creativity

in devel­

oping inven-

tions that would facilitate the life of

an eight year old.

• The Holiday Program: Another

Steward School tradition, this heart­

warming program features all Lower

School students in an elaborate and

beautiful performance that pays tribute to a special season .

Coordinated by Bonnie Anderson, this

program has become a favorite of parents, friends, faculty, and staff.

• The Oratorical Program: This

year-long activity has become increasingly popular with Lower

School students. Fifty-seven students partiCipated in this program, in which

Lower School students work with

Upper School mentors to learn about

and hone public speaking, delivery, and dialogue skills. The program,

held in April, gave Lower School students the chance to show what they have learned through this unique

experience.

• Grandparents' and Special Friends' Day: This Steward School tradition, which celebrates family members and friends who are young at heart, has become a huge hit with everyone involved in the Lower School. Held on May 6, the day featu red a coffee social, a special theatre performance of Once Upon a Time in New York City, a book fair, and classroom receptions.

• Field Day: Parents playa big role in making this day of fun possible. This year's field day, held on May 20, featured lunch and a wide variety of games and activities from potato races to soccer dribbles to water balloon tosses.

• Career Day: This day, also new to the Lower School, was held in May and featured the involvement of the entire school, as organized by Michelle Johnston, school counselor. Grades K-2 explored transportation-focused careers, while grades 3-5 learned more about other occupations.

...... Grad. Oratorical Certificates: Molly Carter, Logan Pryor, Irene 1<00, RobIn Frayser, Sarah Shimer, Mrs. Blum's class

The Lower School Award: Mary Margaret (Molly) Carter

Visitors ranged from a ba llet dancer to an orthodontist to an ice cream vendor. The older grades were able to pick the careers that most appealed to them and then tailor-make their own schedules.

• Colonial Day: Held in late spring, this new day-long celebration com­bined Virginia history education with creativity and fun. All fourth graders wore colonia l attire and transported themselves back in time-making their own food (such as butter, biscuits, and

stew for lunCh), learning about barter­ing, dancing the Virg inia Reel, and discovering crafts of the era such as needlepoint.

• Beach Day: This fun day celebrated the end of the school year in style, with fun and games for all. A disc jockey played music, and there was even a parent/teacher hoola-hoop contest.

Fifth-Grade Class of 2005 Elizabeth Baskerville Alcott Samuel Greer Forbes Harrison Kelly Mire

Lucy catlett Ander.;on Elizabeth Scott Fralin Lisa Herrick Morgan

Margaret C. S. Beirne Robin Ashley Frayser Marie Anne Mullins

Kendall McCarrell Bendheim Audrey Michele Gallagher carter Elizabeth Norman

caroline Grace Blank Thea Patricia Gergoudis Mackenzie Elise Nunnally

Thomas West camp-Crowder Andrew Jacob Gnapp Heth Owen IV

Margaret Meyers Carter Jesse Lamar Harper Kendrick Nolan Peters Harrison Rutledge Clement Samantha Hart Henderson Lauren Alexandra Phillips

John [rby Clement John Preston Huennekens caroline Parker Pinney

Logan COrinne Cooley Henter Peyton Jenkins George Logan Travis Pryor

Samantha Lindsay Cummings Harrison Michael Jones Lauren Ashley Saurs Graham Wilson Diffee Megan Patricia Kelley Sarah Jeanne Shimer

Edward carpenter Dillon Martha MacKenzie Kirchmler Nina Elizabeth Stinson

Tiana Michele Douglas Irene Young her Koo John Wesley Dozier [[[ Timothy Marshall Marino

Olivia Paige Edwards Sean Roberts McKeown

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 18

Walk through the halls of The

Steward School. Spend some time during any given school day with

any child in any school division. Stick around after school for a sporting event or a

performance in the Cramer Center. You'll soon realize-if student excitement hasn't made it clear already-that the Arts are everywhere at Steward.

And that's the way that both the students and

the Arts faculty like it. From the very first days of Lower School until the night of graduation, the three main components of

Steward's Fine Arts program-Visual Arts, Musical Arts, and Dramatic Arts-are so tightly

woven into educational events, school functions, and extracurricular activities that they have

become part of the School's very fabric. As Rugene Paulette, Head of the Fine Arts depart­ment, explains, "By partiCipating in the Arts,

students gain an insight into themselves, set

high goals for themselves, reach beyond their perceived limits, and learn to think creatively."

John McAlister, instrumental music instructor, is a testament to how Steward's commitment to Arts education extends beyond the students. "I love Steward," he says. "Here I can be myself more than at any other point in my career," in

part because he has had the creative freedom to work with small groups to create new

pieces of music, add musical components to Steward School activities, and so on. "Our

entire faculty is a tremendously devoted group of people," Paulette adds, "We are there for the students, and we are devoted to them and to our disciplines."

Both Paulette and McAlister maintain that bringing all forms of student artwork into the

Steward community (and beyond) affords students increased senses of pride and

accomplishment while enhancing the School. This year's addition of the Basketball Pep

Band is one example. They performed at all Friday night home games, as well as at the

Steward Invitational. According to McAlister, the band has been a hit with students, family,

and faculty alike. Mike Maruca, Head of the Middle School, agrees.

"It brought a whole other level of spirit to the games."

One of the year's highlights was the Upper School field trip to

Washington, D.C. The first part of the trip was divided between

different venues, to allow students to visit the art program that most interested them. Students could choose from the National Gallery of Art, the Corcoran School of Art and DeSign, the Torpedo Factory (in

• a year in • reView

Alexandria), the Kennedy Center for the

Performing Arts, or Ford's Theater. That afternoon, all students met up at Ford's for a production of Big River.

What makes the Arts program at Steward unique, according to Paulette, is its focus on each individual student and his or her abilities and talents. Each student has an opportunity to have a "moment in the sun," which would not be possible at a larger school. The benefits of Arts education extend beyond the classroom, the finished product, or the performance, Paulette continues. Through the Arts, she says, students "develop important life Skills, such as focus, concentration, imagination, diSCipline, and cooperation-all of which are necessary to succeed in academic areas and in everyday experiences." And the Arts program is an area of the School that brings all three divisions together, allowing students across grade levels to work toward common goals and learn from each other.

The 2004-2005 school year featured quite a few " firsts" and a number of highlights for the Arts department:

Visual Arts: The SunTrust Art Exhibit, held downtown throughout May, featured the art­work of Middle and Upper School students. The exhibit featured over 400 pieces, ranging

from photography to paintings and drawings to collages and sculpture. A reception was held to honor the participating student artists. A number of other gallery exhibits held throughout the year-such as the Honors Photography Show, the Lower School Spring Art Show, and Two Generations of Watercolor-showcased the work of Steward students and faculty. The exciting collabora­tive project, 600 Auction Masks, featured the creations of students from all three school divisions.

School's tradition of both the Holiday Program

and the Grandparents' and Special Friends' performance, which were held in December

and May, respectively. Students experienced a number of non performing opportunities for

learning more about music: a visit from the Kiev Orchestra, the Richmond Symphony field

trip, the Latin Ballet of Virginia visit, and the

CYT production of Beauty and the Beast this

fall and The Little Mermaid this spring.

Musica l Arts : The Music Department

reached into the Steward community through­

out the year, contributing to school events

such as Convocation, Honor Code Signing,

Veterans' Day, Honor Society Induction, Upper

School Field Day, and all Graduation

Ceremonies. Students in both Choral and

Instrumental music put on a number of

performances this year, including the

Thanksgiving Music Program, the MSjUS

Winter and Spring Concerts, and the Holiday

Choir Tour, among others. The Steward

community has come to cherish the Lower

Dramatic Arts: The spring musical, Oliver, was this year's largest theatre production and

featured performances by students in all three schools. Theatre Tech students created an impressive set, and the Theatre Pit Orchestra

accompanied. According to Paulette, "Everything about it was top-notch." Faculty member Craig Smith performed, playing the

role of Fagin. The fall production of Harvey and the winter production of The Musical

Comedy Murders of 1940 also showcased the

multifaceted talent of Steward students on all levels. From October to May, each class in the

Lower School had the opportunity to put on a full play, providing each student in the Lower

School the chance to participate. A few of this

year's Senior English Projects focused on the theatre. And the Talent Nights and One-Act Plays gave the Steward community the chance

to see the performing, production, and

directing talents of its students.

2004-2005 Fine Arts Banquets The Fine Arts Banquets were held on May 23 (for the Upper School) and May 24 (for the Middle School). Steward's Arts teachers seized these opportunities to recognize the levels of talent, skill, and dedication of Steward Arts students.

Fine Arts Award: Maja Preuss

Art Club Award: Mimi Tanaka

The Steward School Permanent Collection: Sophie Burtoff

Most Promising Newcomer Artist: Middle School: Jake Rowe; Upper School: Maja Preuss

Most Accomplished Artist: Middle School : Jennifer Pauke; Upper School: liz Moran

Best Use of Medium: Middle School : Clay: Sam Elliot; Graphite Pencil : Keith Murphy; Acrylic on canvas: Molly Gagan; Acrylic on Wood: catherine Lillard

Upper School : Pen and Ink: Andy Frank; Graphite Pencil: Alison Norton; Oil on canvas: Jonathan Wauford; Oil Sticks: Sophie Burtaff; Sculpture: Zainullah Ghaznawi; Pottery: Kelly Trimmer

Best Use of Color: Middle School: Madison Ellis; Upper School: Lexi Wiles

Perseverance to a Project: Middle School : Beth Farmer; Upper School: Rachael Meyers

Artistic Enthusiasm: Middle School: Holly Paucke; Upper School: Maja Preuss

Most Improved Artist: Middle School: Michele casper; Upper School: Hali Yun

Most Dedicated Artist: Middle School: Lianne Sisson; Upper School: Hall Yun

Photographer of the Year: Richard Wheeler

Most Accomplished General Music Instrumentalist: Sixth Grade: Rachel Wilcox; Seventh Grade: Kevin Strecker

Highest Academic Average Instrumental Music: Sixth Grade: Emily Norman; Seventh Grade: Grace Henderson

Most Accomplished Beginning Instrumentalist: Calsen Perkins

Most Accomplished Instrumentalist (Middle School): David Dwyer

Most Improved Instrumentalist: Nathan Willett

Most Accomplished Middle School Music Club Instrumentalist: Molly Gagan

Most Valuable Player for Basketball Pep Band: Patrick McKeown

Most Accomplished Instrumentalist (Upper School): Kevin Buckler

Most Accomplished Instrumental Soloist (Upper School): Adam Smith

Most Improved Instrumentalist (Upper Schaal): Justin Wright

Choral Music Award : Sixth Grade: Sarah Burroughs; Seventh Grade: Taylor Scott; Eighth Grade: Rachel Kewer

Most Valuable Player in Choral Music: Sixth Grade: Chip Brierre; Seventh Grade: Hayden Hodges; Eighth Grade: Chaviess Smith-Harrison

Most Accomplished Choral Musician (Upper School): Dabney Broaddus

Most Accomplished Choral Soloist (Upper School): Katie Perkins

Most Accomplished Vocalist (Upper School): Sammy George

Music Director's Award (Upper School): Maja Pruess

Outstanding Achievement in Acting (Middle School): Seventh Grade: Thomas Davisj Eighth Grade: Diana Keith

Budding New Actor: Lexi Wiles

Most Improved Actor: Steven Gianfortoni

Outstanding Achievement in Acting: Coldon Martin, Alex Gadschalk, James Schreiber

Outstanding Achievement in Musical Theatre: Katie Perkins

Outstanding Achievement in Theatre: Ryan Chi ldress

Outstanding Achievement In Backstage Crew: Alex Newman

Outstanding Achievement in the Scene Shop: ChriS Harvey

Outstanding Achievement in Technical Theatre: Sjoerd Langevoort

Outstanding Achievement In Stage Management (for Oliver): Kara Jahnson

Outstanding career Achievement for Four Years in Technical Theatre: Hunter Berlinguet

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 20

Watmadethe

2004-2005

school year so special for the Steward

Athletic Department can be summed up in one word:

growth. The program itself

grew, not only as it added individual players to its dynamic

teams, but as it added a new team

altogether: Varsity Baseball. And the number

of honors won by the teams and their players

grew, as the media, the conferences, and the

state of Virginia recognized the high-caliber

athletes and coaches that continue to make Steward teams the teams to beat.

According to Janet Rice, Steward's Athletic

Director, "We've got some very good athletes at this school. And it's the work ethic of the

athletes that makes the difference. They can

accomplish whatever they want." Wallace Inge,

Assistant Athletic Director, agrees. He points

out that 87 percent of middle- and upper­

school students play at least one sport; with

this kind of participation, "The wide range of abilities and skills all seem to mesh well , and

the students become a true team."

Rice and Inge point to the coaches at Steward

as one of the most important components of

the athletic program's success. "We are blessed with our coaching staff," Rice states, and Inge concurs. He explains that, in such a small

school, the coaches must work with athletic

21 I crossroads Summer 2005 I

skills that span a wide range-and that they do

so successfully, making it possible for players of

all levels to work together to create a winning

team.

Perhaps the biggest highlight of this school year

is the addition of the Varsity Baseball team.

"Baseball added such excitement to the school,"

Rice states. Inge adds, "And the success that

they had was icing on the cake." In their first

year, the baseball team was invited to the

Division III state tournament, "which is quite

an accomplishment," Rice adds. Additionally,

Coach Bruce Secrest was named the vee Coach of the Year; Wayne Bryan and Cameron

Scales were both named All-State players.

Such accolades extend to the School's other

sports teams. This fall , the Varsity Boys' Soccer

team became the vee regular series and tour­

nament champions. Also this fall, the Varsity

Field Hockey team was invited to the state

finals and placed runner-up for VIS Division II.

In the winter, after becoming the regular season

champions for the fourth year in a row, the

Varsity Boys' Basketball team won the vee tournament for the third consecut ive year. And

this spring, the Varsity Girls' tennis team placed

first in the vee for the season (for the seventh

year in a row) and took home the vee tournament championship for the eighth

consecutive year. Players across all

sports were given all -state, all-metro,

and division-wide honors.

Indeed, what's most impressive about the teams and their players is their consistency. Steward students give their all, season

after season, year after year, to keep their teams at the top of the rankings, whether

in their own division or beyond. As Rice explains, "We've got kids who are serious about their sport and want to work for it."

Senior Night, held on February 18, honored senior athletes for their hard work and commitment to the school's athletic program. In the evening's opening remarks, Janet Rice recognized the key role parents have played in the success of the Athletic

Program; she thanked the parents for their

constant support, encouragement, and

presence. As for the Class of 2005, Rice says thoughtfully, "The senior class will be missed. They were very strong athletically.

And with 40 of 49 students playing a sport, we had key members across the board." However, she, Inge, and the other coaches

are excited for the future of Steward athletics. With such strong commitment

by coaches, students, and parents alike, as well as the support of the entire Steward community, how can they not be?

lV and Varsity Awards Varsity Girls' Cross Country: Coaches' Award: Bev Borum; Most Valuable: Elizabeth Delaney

Varsity Boys' Cross Country: 110% Award: Ryan Delaney; Most Outstanding: Cameron Taylor

lV Volleyball: Most Improved: Christine Craig; Coaches' Award: laura Skove; Most Valuable: Veronica Tharp

Varsity Volleyball: Most Improved: Kelsey Mohring; Coaches' Award: Annie Stiles; Most Valuable: lulu Meyer

lV Boys' Basketball: 110% Award: Cameron Taylor; Coaches' Award: Ryan Byrne; High Scorer: Alexander Tharp

JV Girls' Basketball: Defensive leader: leigh Bedinger; floor General: Elizabeth Delaney; Most Valuable: Ann Lunsford

Varsity Girls' Basketball: Most Improved Players: Beth Dixon and Whitney Frost; Most Valuable: Morgan Hutchinson

Varsity Cheerleading: 110% Award: Ashley Cooper; Most Spirited: Meg White

Junior Varsity and Varsity Athletics Awards Night, May 26, 2005

Varsity Boys' Basketball: Most Improved: Jake Waldbauer; Coaches' Award: Kevin Bojarski; Most Valuable: Drew Norris; Iron Man Award: Wayne Bryan, Micah Keller, Kevin Bojarski, Drew Norris

Varsity Boys' Soccer: Defensive MVP: Chris Harvey; Offensive MVP: Brin Hill; Coaches' Award: Afton Bartlett; Most Valuable Player: Kevin Bojarski

Varsity Girts' Soccer: Most Improved: Beth Fanner; Defensive MVP: lauren Malizia; Offensive MVP: Monica Casper; Coaches' Award: Megan Rhodes

Varsity Boys' Lacrosse: Most Improved: Michael Morton; Coaches' Award: TIm Brinn; Offensive MVP: Kevin Bojarski; Defensive MVP: James McCauley; Most Valuable: Jake Waldbauer

Varsity Girls' Lacrosse: Most Improved: Carter DeCook; 110% Award: Kelsey Mohring; Most Valuable: Blair Sutton

Varsity Boys' Tennis: Coaches' Awards: Bradley DeWet and Michael Reazin; 110% Award: Roy Hamilton; Most Valuable: Justin Wright

Varsity Girts' Tennis: Most Improved: Sophie Burtoff; Coaches' Award: Veronica Tharp; Most Valuable: Mary Taylor Tepper

Varsity Golf: Most Improved: Wyatt Moore; Most Valuable: Taylor Christian

Varsity Field Hockey: Most Improved: Sarah Newcomb; Coaches' Award: Wallace Young; Best Defensive Player: Sarah Meigs; Best All-Around: Blair Sutton; Most Outstanding: Katie Perkins; Most Valuable: Morgan Hutchinson

Varsity Baseball : Most Improved: Jonathan Wauford; Coaches' Award: Cameron Scales; "Big Stick" Award: Wayne Bryan; Most Valuable: Brad Hendrick

Athletic Department Awards Coaches' Award: Morgan Hutchinson

110% Award: Kevin Bojarski

Spartan Club Award: Morgan Hutchinson & Chris Harvey

Volunteer of the Year: Ray Tate

Other Individual Awards Richmond Times-Dispatch All Metro Team, Field Hockey: Katie Perkins

Richmond Times-Dispatch All Metro Team, Swimming: Tyler Harris

First Team VIS Field Hockey: Katie Perkins

First Team VIS Division II Soccer: Kevin Bojarksi

First Team VIS Division II Soccer: Brin Hill

First Team VIS Division II Basketball: Drew Norris

First Team VIS Division III Baseball: Wayne Bryan

First Team VIS Division III Baseball : Cameron Scales

Second Team VIS Division II Soccer: Chris Harvey

Honorable Mention, VIS Division II Soccer: Micah Keller

Honorable Mention, VIS Division II Lacrosse: Jake Waldbauer

Honorable Mention, VIS Division II Lacrosse: Chris Harvey

crossroads Summer 2005 I 22

• nl

Since its founding in 1972, The Steward School has always held its name close to the heart of its values. That is, through educational and extracurricular opportu­nities across the disciplines and divisions, Steward strives to raise children who

will become stewards of their community-members who will give back and strive to enrich the lives of those around them.

Steward's commitment to community service thus adds a unique dimension to the education a chi ld receives here-<>ne that will last a lifetime. As Headmaster Ken Seward puts it, "Our commitment begins in the ethic of care: learning to care for yourself, others, your community-and learning to care for a cause beyond yourself." Throughout each year Steward students participate in a vast number of community service programs, from fund raisers for various causes to food drives to clean-up projects and beyond.

According to Butch Keller, Head of the Upper School, "The boundaries of community service are as limitless as your imagination." This page highlights only a few of the many opportunities students have taken to help those around them.

Tsunami Relief This year, Lower School students saw an urgent need and took action. After late December's devastating tsunami in Asia, the entire Lower School came together to raise over $7,000 to donate to relief efforts. Deborah Hanger, Head of the Lower School, is quite proud of the students and their "kind spirit and generosity." "And they raised this money themselves," she explains, "they worked for it-they did extra chores, small jobs, whatever they could do to make it happen."

Habitat for Humanity Throughout the 2004-2005 school year, Middle School students held a variety of fund raisers with the goal of helping a cause that has helped others for years. Students raised over $4,000 for Goochland's Habitat for Humanity, an organization that seeks to provide housing for those who otherwise would not be able to own a home. For their efforts, students received special recognition from the Goochland

We raised over

$7,000 for the Tsunarni

Relief Fund

Zoe Dwelle '12

program's director. But, according to Mike Maruca, Head of the Middle School, nothing compares to the valuable lessons they learnec from the entire process about giving and receiving.

Community Service Program Community Service is a core component of an Upper School education at Steward, explains Keller. Each student is requirec to complete three levels of community service before being allowed to move up to the next grade level. First, students complete the Beadle component, in which they must perform service to the School for a day. Next, each student must work with his or her advisory group on a community service project or projects. The third step consists of an individual commitment to community service, which students must complete on their own in their communities.

This year, Keller's own advisory group received special recognition from the William Byrd Community House, a community social service agency that provides a full range of individual, family, and community-based programs for those in need. The advisory was nominated by the House as one of three finalists for Philanthropist of the Year.

Relay for Life This May more than one-third of Upper School students and 7 faculty members partiCipated in the Relay for Life. Faculty sponsor Melanie Rodriguez and riSing senior Bev Borum organizec this worth­while event, which raised over $1,500 for the American Cancer Society. Rodriguez is proud of the School and hopes to see participation grow even more in the future.

... RELAY FOR LIFE

I American Cancer

~ Society ~

..

(J 1t(lltJlIa (lll(J ltd 7Class of,2005

Breana C'moine Christopher William Beauford Harvey

Hunter Buchanan Bradley Michael Berlinguet Hendrick

Brittney Lauren Morgan Ashley Bertozzi Hutchinson

Kevin Michael Bojarski Nathan Lewis Jamerson

James Christopher Thomas Conger Brown Kennedy, III

Wayne Alan Bryan, Jr. Erin Marie Kiker

Austin cabell Carter Lindsay carter Lillard

Clay Purrington carter Rachel Tova Loria

Ryan Spencer Childress Lauren Ashley Malizia

William Thomas Sarah Willis Meigs Christian

Marie-Luise Meyer William MacKay Clough

Rachael Elaine Meyers Ashley Leigh Cooper

Michael Patrick Morton Brian Hanlon Demo

Sarah Hull Newcomb Lindley Hobson Flohr

Philip Olegavich Kira Katharina Fruechte Nikolenko

Benjamin Charles Giglio James Andrew Norris

Roy Scott Hamilton Alison Grace Norton

'Not only do they think out­side the box and play outside the box-theYve rompletely redesigned the box!" -Ken Seward, Headmaster, at Graduation

Katherine Marie Perkins

Margaret Powell Pope

Jessica Wray Powell

Braxton carnes Pruitt

Caroline Stewart Ryan

Justin Michael Saunders

James Edward Schreiber

Brooke Tatum Secrest

Carter Oxford Shamburger

Blair Carrington Sutton

Cary Hunter Thompson

Sean Andrew Victor Urquhart

Margaret McCray White

Annie Laurie Wise

Jane Wallace Young

'Thave tho1DlJol-oJ.. . wOrlring With cr'o/ etJjoyed

2005 for th the Class of I have lot e past four y~_

a of Dr\r-W ~.'). to f1c>Il~_. O~ 1lJc:nJ .

~'"'.uc:cr tlpon" ones -Todd Serr .

) Setl10r Cl ass sPonsor

The 2004-2005 Senior Gift

The gift from The Steward School Class of 2005 is a fountain that will be placed in the center of a new garden, created to honor all volunteers at Steward.

The garden, given by the Parents' Association, will be located between the Lower School and the Administration and Library Building. Throughout their years in the Upper School, the Class of 2005 has raised money for the Gift through various fund raisers, such as snack, tee­shirt, and hot dog sales at school events.

The fountain will feature a plaque designed to honor Steward's volunteers for their many contributions to the School's success. The plaque will contain the following quotation by Mahatma Ghandi: "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,"

'''The senior class was really an outstanding, athletically gifted class." -Janet Rice, Athletic Director

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 24

fundraisin(Q

A ccording to Graham Sellors,

Director of Development,

fund raising efforts have reached

optimal success this school year. At the

2005 Philanthropy Celebration, held on

June 2, Sellors thanked Board members,

donors, and other guests for their time

and extraordinary efforts. He and Ken

Seward outlined this year's fundraising

accomplishments, which included the

following:

• Annual Giving campaign: Sellors is

more than pleased at the outcome of

this year's Annual Giving campaign. He

is most encouraged by the commitment

of the entire Steward family to the

school's growth. "It is not the amount

that counts," he explains, " It's the

participation, the involvement in the

school." In fact, the involvement at

Steward is exceptional, he says, pointing

out that Steward is well above the

national average. This year's 81 percent

parent involvement significantly exceeded

the 54 percent of last year, an increase

for which the entire school community

should feel great pride. And both the

faculty/staff and all five Boards had

100% involvement, which is "just so

exciting," says Sellors. This year's Annual

Giving campaign raised $376,665 .

• Parents' Association Contributions: Sellors acknowledged

Parents' Association President, Beth

Moore, and thanked her, the Board,

and all parents who helped raise funds

through the Spartan Spirit Day, the

Auction, Dinners to Go, and other

activities. Because of these events, the

Parents' Association will be able to

donate at least $190,000 this year.

The funds raised will help to purchase

various items on the school's "Wish List,"

such as the Lower School playground

renovation, photography lab upgrading,

and new athletiC, music, and science

equipment.

25 I crossroads Summer 2005 I

initiatives • Senior Gift I nitiative: This new

initiative was chaired by Dee Dee Sutton

and achieved its goal of 100 percent

senior class parental participation toward

the Annual Giving Campaign. The final

Senior Gift totaled more than $50,000,

which will be contributed to renovations

in the Upper School.

• Leadership All iance: Another new

initiative this school year, the Leadership

Alliance was established to recognize

any donor who gives $1,000 or more to

the Annual Giving campaign. Over 95

participants became a part of this year's

Leadership Alliance.

• Spartan Club: Led by Ray Tate since

its inception, the Spartan Club raised

$25,000 at this year's Spartan Golf

Classic. Addit ionally, the Spartan Club

raised over $16,000 in restricted gifts to

the Annual Giving Campaign . The monies

raised will go toward needed athletic

equipment (such as goals), baseball field

rental, and a trip to the Charleston

basketball tournament.

• Upper School Renovations Pledges: Currently, there is $35,000

committed to this exciting project, which

will provide much-needed renovations to

the Upper School building (considered

renovations include a new foreign

language complex, including classrooms

and a foreign language lab, a new

student commons area, student art

gallery space, and room for materials

and bookbags).

• Financial Aid Scholarship: This year,

thanks to the generous support of

Steward families, the Financia l Aid

Scholarship grew from $20,000 to the

current amount of $65,000. This fund

will help provide students in need with

financial assistance, so they can benefit

from a Steward education.

• Major Gifts Initiative: Under the

leadership of Ferd Baruch, cha irman of

the Major Gifts Initiative, and thanks to

members of the Executive Committee

and the Advisory Group, almost $3

million has been raised-putting Steward

that much closer to the $5 million goal.

2004-2005 Annual GivinQ CampaiQn Results

Thanks to the commitment of Steward families and the strong leadership of the Annual Giving Campaign Committee, this year's Annual Giving Campaign met with resounding success. The participation of an incredible 81 percent

of Steward families helped the Campaign to raise $376,665. This year's total marks the highest amount ever raised and far surpasses the original 2004-2005 goal of $250,000.

Total Parent

Participation:

810/0

Faculty I Staff Pa rtici pation:

1000/0

Members of all 1_

Five Boards

Participation:

100%

The participation

of an incredible

81 percent of

Steward families

helped the

Campaign to

raise $376,665.

2004-2005 Development Committee 2004-2005 Annual Giving Campaign Committee

Dennis Pryor, Co-Chair

Darlene Spangler, Co-Chair

Ferd Baruch

Malanie Brandt

John Bryan

Ann Carol Marchant

Charlie Menges

Graham Sellors

Ken Seward

Gene McKeown, Chair

Cindy Arrington TIm Carter Dan Caldwell

Janet Gallagher Ward Good

Chuck Shimer Darlene Spangler Brian Tharp

Thank you for your generous support. Below is a list of giving percentages by grade:

Participation

Grade

12 7 2 KG 5 6 4 3 8 9 1 11 10

partici pation Percentage

100% 91% 91% 88% 87% 84% 81% 79% 77% 76% 70% 650/0 59%

I crossroads Summer 2005 I 26

no picture

available

taff d ia na lawrence Upper School, Math. Retiring to enjoy time with family, Diana has taught Math for her entire career. She will be missed, especially for her dedicatiol and hard work as the Math Department Chair for so many years .

. mOnlCaleik Upper and Middle School, Spanish . Coach, cross-country and lacrosse. Monica will be married in the fall. Although she was only with us for a year. Monica was an involved teacher who loved her students.

fra ncOiSemulien Middle School, French. Originally from Belgium, a medical doctor and mother of two boys, Francoise's competent, kind, and thoughtful ways wil be missed.

el iza bethgriggs-robertson International Student Program Director. Elizabeth began as an ESL tutor and soon designed and ran the International Program. Her hard work and dedication to the program and its students will be missed.

brianross Upper School, Math; Coach, soccer and girls' basketball. The School will miss his terrific sense of humor and ability to get along with everyone.

grahamsellors Director of Development. Leaving Steward to explore the corporate world. Graham's smile, sense of humor, and commitment to the School and its advancement have left their mark on the entire Steward community.

terrytosh Lower School, French. A compassionate, talented, and generous member of the staff, Terry brought the intrigue and value of the French language and culture to life for Lower School students. Terry and her fabulous fudg will be missed by all.

SUSanupshaw Enrichment Coordinator. A valuable addition to CAL, Susan enhanced educational programs at Steward in a variety of ways. Her contributions will be remembered every t ime the entire inventory of the Lending libraI') (approximately 600 books) is accessed on-line via the Spartanet.

ch risti nevermillion Lower School. Another jewel in the LS treasury, Christine leaves us to get married and move to New York. Her meticulous care in planning, observing and reporting to parents is matched by her magnetic personality, patiencE and work ethic.

boa rd fa rewells

board of trustees

ferd iebaruch

wilsonflohr

stangreene

beth moore

darlenespangler

johnstinson

foundation board

ferdiebaruch

paulcramer •• jlmduty

bobmassey

new board members

board of trustees: foundation board:

lou ellenblackwelder merylhenkel den i sekasper joh nnolde annepace mortonnorman dOnsteeber

• weeZlewiltshire

~

~ THE SrEWARD SCHOOL

11600 Gayton Road Richmond, Virginia 23238

www,stewardscilooJ.org

NC'mpmfll Org.lni1AJtilln

U,S, POSfAGE PAID

Richmond, VA Permit No. 8905