PRIDE THE
Spring 2022 Volume 27, Issue 1 St. Mark’s School of Texas Alumni Magazine
IN THIS ISSUE:
Familiar Footsteps
Marksmen sustain the natural rhythms on campus
Fan Blizzard Unleashes Lion Pride! During the last weekend in January, the St. Mark’s community showed up to support their Lions at Fan Blizzard. Boys, parents, teachers, and friends enjoyed hot chocolate and treats while cheering for the varsity soccer and basketball teams in games against Greenhill.
Contents
THE
PRIDE St. Mark’s School of Texas Alumni Magazine Volume 27, Issue 1 • Spring 2022
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36
28
ON CAMPUS 3 4 12 16 21 22 24 26 28
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Campus Snapshot Student Art Sports News Holiday Traditions Student Accolades Making a Difference Campus Visitors Scouts Newsies
ALUMNI NEWS 30 | Alumni Programs 32 | Homecoming & Alumni Weekend
SPOTLIGHT ON PHILANTHROPY 34 | Senior Auction
FEATURES 36 | Goals for St. Mark’s IV 50 | Athletic Center Project
50
St. Mark’s School of Texas
NOTES AND REMARKS 54 58 60 62
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Class Notes Faculty Notes In Memoriam Endnotes
Spring 2022 | Contents
1
On Campus
in this issue Many hallmarks of the St. Mark’s experience were rekindled in the 2021–2022 school year: pickup games of football on the Quad; Senior and Lower School buddy meetups on the playground; robust discussions around the Harkness tables; inspiring performances in the theaters and Chapel; and boisterous expressions of Lion Pride on and around the athletic fields. Routine and normalcy permeated all areas
It was a beautiful August day when the entire campus
of community life. Parent volunteers were a
community gathered in the Quad for Opening
welcome sight back on campus, helping in the
Convocation and the start of our 116th school year.
lunchroom, student store, and libraries. St. Mark’s
The first day of school is always an emotional moment, as we come together after so many months apart. But this year’s gathering took on extra meaning as I recalled the previous year’s Opening Convocation when only a handful of individuals had spoken in front of a webcam that was streaming the ceremony into homes across Dallas. And even though we were fortunate to have just two weeks of remote learning at the beginning of the 2020–2021 school year, that limited period of physical separation only made me all the more grateful for a return to routine and normalcy. Recent graduate Daniel Sanchez ’21 spoke to his fellow Marksmen on that sunny August morning, reminding them and all of us to “take a step back and appreciate where you are.” As the 2021–2022 school year has progressed, we have been afforded many opportunities to heed this advice. The St. Mark’s community has thrived together amidst the uncertainty of the past few years and
families showed up in droves for Lion Pride Night to reconnect and form new bonds while cheering on the Lions. And alumni came home to campus for the first time since early 2020 for an unforgettable Homecoming & Alumni Weekend. Across all fronts, the St. Mark’s community has been not only resuming normalcy but advancing to altogether new heights. Goals for St. Mark’s IV, the latest iteration of the School’s strategic plan, remained as relevant and important as ever during this recent period of uncertainty. In the five years since Goals IV was adopted by the Board, we have taken numerous steps to bolster existing programs, expand into new areas, and embrace the notion that “good enough is never good enough.” In this issue, we are excited to share a number of the ways we are rising to meet the challenges set by Goals IV. Ever greater may we rise. With gratitude,
our collective strength has been on full display. Now, with great optimism and ambition, we advance towards an exciting time in the School’s history, empowered by a relatively unexceptional
Scott Jolly Assistant Headmaster for External Affairs
theme: normalcy. 2
On Campus | THE PRIDE
St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
campus snapshot From Kahoot to Cooking, Literature to LEGO Robotics, Business to the Blues, there is a club for just about every interest at St. Mark's. Clubs provide the opportunity for boys in all Divisions to not only gather and share their passion with others, but also discover new interests, gain leadership experience, and make some new friends along the way.
St. Mark’s School of Texas
Spring 2022 | On Campus
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On Campus
A Collection of Student Works
(above) Matthew Peng ’31
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
(left) Montgomery Cullum ’31 (below) Garet Tydlaska ’30 (below left) Andrew Wilmer ’30
St. Mark’s School of Texas
Spring 2022 | On Campus
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On Campus
(right) Paul Valois ’22 (below) Ekansh Tambe ’22
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
(top and left) Owen Simon ’22 (above) Adam Lai ’22
St. Mark’s School of Texas
Spring 2022 | On Campus
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On Campus
(clockwise from top left) Mason Scott ’29 Evan Yepuri ’28 Adam Wang ’22
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On Campus | THE PRIDE
St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
(clockwise from top left) Holden Browning ’24 Warren Wier ’29 Carson Bosita ’25
St. Mark’s School of Texas
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On Campus
CHAMPIONSHIP
CHARACTER Lion athletes lead by example.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
Volleyball Three years removed from an SPC Championship, the varsity volleyball team entered 2021 with their sights set on reclaiming the trophy. The Lions
Cross Country
cruised through the regular season with hungry
The varsity cross country team entered the SPC
determination, under the leadership of Coach
Championships ready to defend their first-
Darren Teicher, and entered the 2021 SPC
place title from 2019 (the last Championship
Tournament as the North Zone #3 seed. While
prior to COVID). Coached by John Turek and
the Lions easily moved through their first game
Ryan Hershner, numerous runners recorded
against Kinkaid (3-0), the next game against host
personal bests throughout the season, leading
school Greenhill was a nail-biter. After losing the
to a first-place finish at the SPC North Zone
first two sets, the Lions rallied back to win the
Meet. Two weeks later, the Lions ended their
next three sets and the game. The Championship
season on a high note, scoring a total of 51 points
match pitted the 2018 SPC Champion Lions
and claiming yet another SPC Championship.
against the 2019 Champion Trinity Valley
Marksmen also claimed many of the top spots in
Trojans. The back-and-forth game lasted all five
the race, including Sahil Dodda ’22 (2nd),
sets, but thanks to solid hitting performances
Raja Mehendale ’24 (6th), Asa McCaleb ’24 (12th),
by seniors Miller Trubey and Will Shoup and
Clark Cooper ’24 (13th), and Fisayo Omonije ’22
precise setting by senior George Warren, the
(16th). These runners also received All-SPC
Lions emerged victorious and claimed the 2021
honors for their efforts, and thanks to impressive
SPC Championship.
performances by the rest of the team, the Lions
(above left) Jodie Thompson ’22 spikes the ball in the SPC Championship game against Trinity Valley (above right) Raja Mehendale ’24 at the SPC Cross Country Championship at Norbuck Park
are poised to attempt a rare three-peat next fall.
St. Mark’s School of Texas
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On Campus
sports news
Football (left to right) Head Coach Harry Flaherty Blake Malouf ’23 gets behind the Cistercian defense
After a shortened season in 2020 and with new Head Coach Harry Flaherty at the helm, the outlook for 2021 was uncertain for the varsity football team. But thanks to hard work in the weight room and dedication during summer practices, the Lions started the season strong,
John Ma ’24 plays the ball against Kinkaid in the SPC semifinals
winning their first four games. Unfortunately, midway through the season, starting quarterback and captain Alex Nadalini ’22 went down with a torn ACL in game six against Houston Christian. Backup Asher Wilburn ’23 stepped in as the starting signal-caller and led the team to a 5-4 record on the season. Wilburn performed admirably in his role, throwing for 1,364 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Soccer The varsity soccer team returned to the SPC Championships seeking to defend their title. Coached by Cory Martin, the team went 7-0 in North Zone play while allowing zero goals, earning them the North Zone #1 seed. After a first-round bye, the Lions defeated The Awty International School 2-1 in an overtime nail-biter thanks to a penalty kick from senior Lars Ochs. The semifinal match placed the Lions up against the South Zone #2 seed, The Kinkaid School. This game was another thriller, but the Lions lost after a last-second goal from the Falcons. The next day, the Lions faced off with Greenhill School for third place. After giving up a two-goal lead, the Lions valiantly fought back, but ultimately fell short, leaving them with a fourth-place finish on the season.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
(left to right) Corvin Oprea ’22, Caleb Vanzant ’22, and Tate Laczkowski ’22 prepare to rebound against Houston Christian at the SPC Championships Jedidiah Kim ’22, Elijah Ellis ’22, and Hayward Metcalf ’23 celebrate their individual championships at Prep State
Basketball The varsity basketball team entered the SPC Tournament as the defending champions. Led by coach Greg Guiler, the Lions worked to integrate many new faces on the varsity squad. A trio of seniors — Tate Laczkowski, Corvin Oprea, and Caleb Vanzant — put up big numbers on a nightly basis to maneuver the Lions to the #3 seed in the North Zone. In the first round of the SPC Tournament, the Lions cruised past Kinkaid in a 68-39 victory fueled by a tripledouble from Vanzant. The Lions faced off with Houston Christian High School in a secondround back-and-forth battle. Although Houston Christian hit 11 of their first 16 threes to forge an 11-point halftime lead, the Lions stayed poised and excelled to a commanding 84-68 win. Next,
Wrestling Coached by Reyno Arredondo ’87, the varsity wrestling team had a full squad for the SPC Tournament for the first time in recent memory. Eleven wrestlers placed in the SPC championships this year. Five wrestlers — Quina Perkison ’24, Hayward Metcalf ’23, Jedidiah Kim ’22, Sal Abbasi ’22, and Elijah Ellis ’22 — won individual SPC championships and, as a whole, the team finished third place in SPC. Just two weeks later, the team competed in the Prep State Wrestling Tournament, where Jedidiah, Elijah, and Hayward all successfully defended their Individual State Championship titles.
the Lions faced off with rival and North Zone Champion Greenhill School in the semifinal game. The Lions kept it close all game, but Greenhill’s size proved too much for the Lions to handle. Finally, in the third-place game, the Lions fell to St. John’s School to claim fourth place in the tournament. St. Mark’s School of Texas
Spring 2022 | On Campus
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On Campus
sports news
FALL & WINTER ALL-SPC ATHLETES Volleyball Will Shoup ’22 Miller Trubey ’22 George Warren ’22
Cross Country Clark Cooper ’24 Sahil Dodda ’22 Asa McCaleb ’24 Raja Mehendale ’24 Fisayo Omonije ’22
Football Conor Duffy ’22 Elijah Ellis ’22 Sam Eluemunoh ’22
Soccer Stefan Moreno ’22 Nicholas Gomez ’22 swims in the SPC Championship
Swimming
Lars Ochs ’22
Coming off a 2020 SPC Championship (the
Noah Soliz ’22
2021 tournament was canceled because of the pandemic), the varsity swimming team looked
Basketball
to repeat an SPC championship in 2022. After a
Tate Laczkowski ’22
successful regular season, the team headed into
Corvin Oprea ’22
the meet with high hopes. Coached by Trent Calder, the Lions had a very successful meet,
Wrestling
with every swimmer breaking his personal best
Sal Abbasi ’22
in at least one event. The meet was highlighted
Elijah Ellis '22
by an incredible 400 freestyle relay in which the
Jedidiah Kim ’22
Marksmen were able to secure a second-place
Hayward Metcalf ’23
finish by two-hundredths of a second. The team
Stice Neuhoff ’23
was led by senior Brett Honaker, who earned a
Quina Perkison ’24
personal best in three of his four events at SPC. The Lions concluded the season with a fourth-
Swimming
place finish at SPC.
Nicolas Gomez ’22 Brett Honaker ’22
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On Campus | THE PRIDE
St. Mark’s School of Texas
ST. MARK’S STUDENT STORE ORDER ONLINE at smtexasstore.com or by phone 214-346-8185
On Campus
holiday traditions While last year’s holidays were disrupted by the pandemic, the return of so many beloved traditions was a reminder of what makes the St. Mark’s community so special. Once again, students, teachers, parents, grandparents, and alumni gathered to celebrate the season together.
McDonald’s Week The signature Junior Class Fundraiser returned to the Preston-Royal McDonald’s for the first time since 2018. Marksmen competed in relay races, table tennis tournaments, and karaoke competitions, while Mr. Owens ’89 ended the week with a bang. The Class of 2023 raised more than $16,000 for Austin Street Center, in addition to meals donated by McDonald’s that the boys distributed at the Austin Street Center.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
Grandparents’ Day More than 500 grandparents and grandfriends joined their Marksmen on campus for Grandparents’ Day. Classes prepared special activities from trivia games to student presentations, and guests enjoyed a glimpse of daily life at 10600 Preston Road.
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On Campus
holiday traditions
Alumni Holiday Luncheon Marksmen from across generations gathered to celebrate the annual Alumni Holiday Luncheon at Arlington Hall. Alumni Association President Sandy Campbell ’76 welcomed his fellow graduates, saying, “I hope today’s event brings back fond memories and rekindles the holiday spirit we experienced as students.” Senior Ekansh Tambe shared his perspectives as a current student, including his incredible work raising awareness of global issues through photography.
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On Campus
Lessons & Carols On a beautiful winter evening, the Choir held a candlelit Festival of Lessons & Carols in the St. Mark’s Chapel. Community members, including students, alumni, Trustees, and special guests, read the nine lessons chronicling the Christmas Story, while the Choir and congregation sang nine traditional carols. As always, the evening began with the first verse of “Once in Royal David’s City” performed solo by a fourth-grade chorister.
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On Campus
holiday traditions
All-School Christmas Party Just before Christmas Break, the entire campus community gathered for a tradition that has come to symbolize St. Mark’s in so many ways. Seniors hoisted their Lower School buddies onto their shoulders (some even two at a time) and processed into the Great Hall. Student Council President Alex Geng ’22 announced the successful completion of the Student Council and Community Service Board Gift Drive, which collected more than 2,500 gifts for local nonprofits. Salvation Army DFW Metroplex Commander Todd Hawks thanked the St. Mark’s community for their generosity: “You are continuing a tradition here, but you’re also creating new traditions and new memories in homes and in families across Dallas. Because of you, hope marches on.”
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On Campus | THE PRIDE
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On Campus
student accolades
Sahil Dodda ’22 took first-place at the Eastbay South Region
At the 2021 Dallas BEST Robotics
Cross Country Meet setting a
Tournament, the St. Mark’s Robotics
new meet record. Sahil
Team took home the “Founders’
next competed in the Eastbay
Award for Creative Design”— the
Cross Country National
award for the best-designed
Championships, earning an
robot in the eyes of the judges.
Varsity Wrestlers Hayward Metcalf ’23, Jedidiah Kim ’22, and Elijah Ellis ’22 won state in their weight class for the second year in a row.
The National Merit Scholarship Program named 22 members of the Class of 2022 as Semifinalists.
Honorable Mention A-American.
Evan Lai ’22, Owen Simon ’22, Ekansh Tambe ’22, Paul Valois ’22, and Tomek Marczewski ’22 received National Young Arts Recognition, with Evan and Tomek being recognized as finalists, and Tomek being nominated for Presidential Scholar in the Arts for Design Arts.
The National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA) recently announced the winners of its highest recognition, the Pacemaker Award. Three student publications earned Pacemakers (The ReMarker student newspaper, Focus special interest magazine, and The Scientific Marksmen science journal) and 22 individual students earned national recognition for their work.
Ben Gravel ’22 and Isaac Song ’22 successfully developed an application that more accurately determined location deep underwater at the request of Victor Vescovo ’84, to assist in his record-breaking deep-sea explorations.
St. Mark’s School of Texas
Marksmen accounted for nearly one-third of the selections by the Texas Photographic Society’s International Student Competition.
The Texas Private Music School Educators Association awarded All-State Orchestra honors to 12 Marksmen, All-State Jazz Band honor to four Marksmen, and All-State Choir honors to 12 Marksmen.
The Lower School LEGO Robotics Club competed in their first local meet this year, finishing fourth overall and receiving the Core Values Award in recognition of their enthusiasm and spirit.
Anthony Wang ’23 was
Four seniors were named National African American Recognition Program Scholars, and six were named National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars by the College Board.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis honored
selected to represent
Ekansh Tambe ’22 as a recipient of its 2021
Team USA in the 2021
Power of Children Awards for his photojournalism
FIRST Global Challenge,
project and TEDx talk called Beyond Borders,
an Olympic-style,
which focuses on documenting problematic border
international robotics
areas around the world so others can better
competition.
understand the issues and facilitate positive change.
Spring 2022 | On Campus
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On Campus
life lessons in the makerspace Community members like you make a lasting difference by giving to the St. Mark’s Fund. The impact you make through your support can be felt in every corner of campus, including the Addy Family Makerspace and Mosle Family Engineering Shop. Under the leadership of Makerspace Director Stewart Mayer, this dynamic learning space has become an incubator for boys’ imaginations, inspiring a passion for computer science and engineering. Mr. Mayer brings lessons to life and challenges students to get creative in their projects, whether they are designing homemade arcade games or competing in national robotics competitions. But more important than coding and building, the Makerspace teaches universal skills of problem-solving and teamwork — lessons that every Marksman will use.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
Make a difference. Scan this code to see the impact of the Makerspace and visit smtexas.org/makeagift to contribute to this year’s fund.
On Campus
campus visitors
(top and above) Students talk with Cornel West and Robert George at Upper School Assembly (top right and right) Students learn from visiting authors at the Literary Festival
Cornel West and Robert George In a world of increasingly polarized viewpoints, two world-renowned professors are on a mission to promote civil discourse. Cornel West of Columbia University and Robert George of Princeton University consider each other close friends and respected colleagues, even as they identify on opposite sides of the political spectrum. The pair returned to St. Mark’s and presented a special Upper School Assembly titled “TruthSeeking, Democracy, and Freedom of Thought and Expression.” In their talk, the duo discussed the importance of respecting others and learning to listen. As Professor George told the students, “Let’s get back to fundamentals here: virtues like openness of mind, willingness to acknowledge one’s own fallibility, and the recognition that one could be wrong, even about deep, important things.” In addition to their Upper School Assembly, the pair also had lunch with members of the Senior Class and visited Lower School classrooms.
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On Campus | THE PRIDE
Literary Festival St. Mark’s hosted five incredible writers at the 15th annual Literary Festival: •
Journalist Josh Harkinson ’95
•
Bestselling science writer Sam Kean
•
Novelist Christopher Boucher
•
Slam poet Sherrie Zantea
•
Bestselling memoirist Rhoda Janzen (2022 Brent P. Johnson ’89 Guest Writer)
The writers spent two days visiting with classes across campus, from Journalism to Environmental Science. During a special Upper School Assembly, the five writers also delved deeper into their inspirations, writing processes, and the steps that led each down their career paths. The broader Dallas community also had the chance to hear from these special guests at the evening Writers’ Forum.
St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
Taylor Jenkins ’03
SSG Moises Rangel
Taylor Jenkins ’03, Head Coach of the Memphis
Army Ranger, Staff Sergeant Moises Rangel, spoke
Grizzlies, spent an afternoon sharing his life and
with Mrs. Santosuosso’s class, "A History of Special
NBA experiences with students and coaches while
Ops since 1945." SSG Rangel shared his experiences
his team was in town. He shared lunch with the
serving as an infantryman with the 75th Ranger
captains of the Lions’ varsity sports teams and
Regiment and as a defense contractor in Iraq and
then chatted with members of St. Mark’s coaching
Afghanistan, answering questions about recent
staff. Taylor’s visit also included a special reunion
events in both areas of conflict. SSG Rangel also
with his own St. Mark’s basketball coach, Scott
discussed his current role as a Psychological
Jolly, who now serves as Assistant Headmaster for
Operations Specialist in the Army Reserves.
(top left and bottom left) Visiting authors speak to students (top right) SSG Moises Rangel (bottom right) Taylor Jenkins ’03
External Affairs.
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The Olympic Medal of Scouting
(above) Eagle Scouts Baxter Perry-Miller ’24 and Spencer Burke ’22
The Boy Scouts of America’s William T. Hornaday Silver Medal for distinguished
Trail; and incubating, brooding, banding, and releasing quail into the Blackland Prairie. In addition to earning the Hornaday Medal, Spencer is one of
service in natural resources conservation
only a few dozen Scouts in history to earn Eagle Scout
is so rarely earned, it has been called the
with 23 Palms and all 138 possible Merit Badges.
Olympic Medal of Scouting.
R
Baxter’s endeavors consisted of placing custom trash and recycling bins along trails at the Trinity River
ecipients must earn numerous Merit Badges
Audubon Center; helming a city-wide battery disposal
and plan, lead, and carry out four separate
drive; monitoring the survival rate of pen-raised
conservation projects. Only 1,200 of the 100
quail at the Lake Lewisville Environmental Learning
million active Scouts have earned this Medal
Area; and installing native flowers and grasses to
since 1910. In 2021, Hornaday Medals were awarded
support a bee apiary at Bonton Farms.
to not one, but two Marksmen. Eagle Scouts Spencer Burke ’22 and Baxter Perry-Miller ’24 each
The Scouting program stresses the importance of
earned a Medal after dedicating hundreds of
leadership, service, and perseverance — lessons
hours to the study and practice of conservation
that are familiar to any Marksman. As he pursued
around Dallas.
his conservation projects, Baxter relied on much of what he has learned both inside and outside
For his projects, Spencer installed 100 custom
the classroom.
solitary bee nesting boxes across Dallas parks; removed invasive plants and planted native grasses and wildflowers at Twelve Hills Nature Center; established pollinator habitats along the Northaven
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
(left-to-right)) Baxter Perry-Miller ’24 and fellow Scouts building recycling bins
“St. Mark’s really taught me to be persistent and to
Spencer Burke ’22 with a set of solitary bee nesting boxes
persevere,” Baxter said. “During the past few years, I’ve encountered all kinds of obstacles blocking my path, but I continued to pursue each project
Some of the boys’ role models also became their
one at a time.”
biggest supporters. Many teachers offered their
As Scouts, Baxter and Spencer were also right at
on their conservation projects, helping the boys
home during St. Mark’s campouts, and Baxter
develop their plans and even offering feedback
even served as a Sherpa on several Middle School
on the substantial amount of paperwork they
time and expertise as Baxter and Spencer worked
camping trips.
each had to submit to the National Conservation Award Committee.
“Most of these kids are completely out of their element, but it’s so cool to mentor them and show them
“It’s a real benefit that the teachers not only care
how to not only survive but thrive in different
about my education, but they are also willing and
environments,” Baxter said.
able to guide me while working on my passion in conservation and the goal to earn the distinguished
And when it comes to leadership, there is plenty of
award,” said Baxter. “It’s very meaningful to be at
crossover in the lessons taught by St. Mark’s and
St. Mark’s where there is a substructure with
the Scouts. As Captain of the Varsity Fencing Team
people who go the extra mile to foster the
and President of the Classics and Chess Clubs,
students' interests.”
Dan Northcut ’81 assists Baxter with his battery disposal project
Spencer is taking every opportunity to follow the example of teachers, mentors, and students
Environmental Science teacher Dan Northcut ’81
who came before him.
offered both Marksmen guidance on their conservation projects, including helping them
“From an early age, St. Mark’s teaches you courage and honor, which are directly in line with the Scout
scale their efforts to achievable goals, though he never taught them in class.
Oath,” Spencer said. “We talk in class about morals and ethics, and that, by itself, has made me a better person. But then I’m also able to demonstrate those virtues through actions, like leading a team
“They had the curiosity, the desire, and the drive to make an impact in the real world,” said Mr. Northcut. “That’s what we really want from our students.”
or a club.”
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S E I S W NE K’S S T. M A R
P ROGR A A M A R D
M
Y S DI S N E T N E S E PR
’S
The full cast at the curtain call
The Upper School Drama Department “carried the banner” in their winter musical Newsies. Set in New York City at the turn of the century, the musical followed a ragtag crew of newsboys who go on strike when publisher Joseph Pulitzer tries to raise the price of newspapers. And while a winter storm delayed some of the showings, the cast and crew proved that “the show must go on,” staging four sold-out performances.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
On Campus
(clockwise from top left) The cast performs “Seize the Day,” ‘Crutchie’ (Winston Miller ’24) composing a letter, ‘Race’ (Lukas Palys ’25) and newsies celebrating their newfound fame, Jack Kelly (Xander Bowles ’22) and Joseph Pulitzer (Owen Simon ’22) agree on terms to settle the strike, and Pulitzer with his associates
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Alumni News alumni programs
During their Thanksgiving Break, members of the 15 most recent graduating classes caught up with one another at the annual Young Alumni Holiday Party at HG SPLY CO. Alex Eshelbrenner ’04, Ahlberg & Ribman Family Director of Alumni Relations, recognizes how important Young Alumni are within the St. Mark’s community. “It is critical to engage all of our graduates at a high level, including our young alumni,” Eshelbrenner said. “They are a key resource for current Marksmen and
After nearly two years of limited campus access and several virtual events, parents, alumni, and friends enthusiastically
an important sounding board for the School. Plus, they will be leading our Alumni Association for years to come.”
returned to campus this fall for a variety of community events. For the first time in two years, the annual Alumni (above) Board of Trustees Vice President Jeff Hillier '76 visits with guests at the Alumni Holiday Luncheon (above right) Alumni Water Polo Game
On December 8, scores of parents and alumni
Holiday Luncheon was held in-person at Arlington
partners gathered on campus for Volunteer Day
Hall. Alumni heard campus updates from Eugene
and conducted meaningful outreach to peers that
McDermott Headmaster David Dini, current
advanced the St. Mark’s Fund. Volunteers invited
Alumni Board President Sandy Campbell ’76, and
engagement with this year’s St. Mark’s Fund
Ekansh Tambe ’22. After the holidays, the Varsity
through personal phone calls, handwritten thank-
Water Polo, Soccer, and Basketball teams competed
you notes, and signed requests for support to fellow
against members of the Alumni Association in
members of the St. Mark’s Community.
the much-anticipated Alumni Games, with both the Water Polo and Basketball alumni teams emerging victorious.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
Alumni News
(top left) Alumni Soccer Game (bottom left) Alumni Basketball Game (top right and bottom right) College-Age Marksmen Day
“While I was a student, I benefitted from advice and instruction given to me by alumni,” Hopkin With many college-age Marksmen still in town
said. “Now I am in a position to pass along my own
for Winter Break, members from the Classes
advice and instruction.”
of 2018 through 2021 came to campus on January 6 to connect with established graduates.
A few days later, volunteers from the Classes ending
Professionals in business and finance, medicine
in 2 and 7 came to campus to begin planning their
and healthcare, law and government, and
upcoming April Reunions. Alumni in Reunion
technology and entrepreneurship shared their
years are excited and ready to re-engage with the
experiences and answered questions. Later that
St. Mark’s Community and their classmates in
afternoon, four Alumni currently attending
person after a prolonged hiatus. This enthusiasm
college sat on a panel facilitated by the Student
has been palpable since the early stages of the 2022
Alumni Association to impart their collegiate
Reunion planning process and continues to grow
experiences thus far to current students in Upper
as plans solidify.
School. One of the panelists, Taylor Hopkin ’20, a freshman at Davidson College, is eager to serve younger Marksmen.
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Alumni News
OCTOBER 2021
Homecoming & Alumni Weekend
In October 2021, St. Mark’s combined its two largest community events into a weekend full of Lion Pride. As the nature of the global pandemic evolved throughout
ALUMNI HIT THE LINKS
on October 21 at the
Texas Rangers Golf Club in Arlington for the Alumni Golf Tournament. After a shotgun start, teams fanned out for the scramble before
2021, the Alumni Association remained committed to
returning for a dinner and awards reception.
bringing graduates back to campus safely to reengage with
This year’s Ivan Irwin Jr., ’50 Cup was won by
one another and the School. The result was Homecoming & Alumni Weekend 2021, a three-day celebration for alumni,
the foursome of Joe Hay ’68, Austin Heape, Scott Heape ’68, and Tim Weymouth ’68, who earned both the lowest net and gross scores.
students, parents, faculty, staff, and the entire community.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
Alumni News
The following morning, alumni gathered on campus for a day in the life of a Marksman. Recently retired English teacher Curtis Smith returned for one more lesson, addressing a room filled with former students spanning five decades. Director of Environmental Studies, Dan Northcut ’81 taught his fellow graduates about the history of mass extinctions, while history teacher Dr. Jerusha Westbury shared the surprising history of pranks by colonial Spaniards. As the student body prepared for the weekend’s festivities, alumni were invited to attend the Homecoming Pep Rally before the big games. As the sun set, the Friday night lights lit up Norma & Lamar Hunt Family Stadium and Morris G. Spencer Gym for Homecoming 2021. Hundreds of parents and alumni began the evening at the Kickoff Party in the Great Hall before heading out to cheer on the football and volleyball teams. At the Saturday Family Cookout, alumni and their families enjoyed lunch on the Perot Family Quadrangle while the Blues Club provided musical entertainment. In the Winn Science Center, visitors experienced stellar planetarium shows, toured the Addy Family Makerspace, and even took home a freshly laser-cut wooden souvenir. As another memorable Alumni Weekend came to a close, Marksmen did not have to wait long to celebrate the next one. Alumni Weekend 2022 welcomed hundreds of Marksmen and visitors to campus in late April, complete with the Spring Alumni Dinner and reunions for Classes ending in 2 and 7, as well as the parents of the Classes of 2007, 2012, and 2017, and even a few postponed reunions from the previous year. Check the next issue of The Pride for complete coverage of this hallmark weekend.
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Spotlight seniors establish scholarship fund
their own talents in the arts, athletics, academics, and even cooking. Veteran faculty member and Director of Admission & Financial Aid David Baker once again served as emcee and auctioneer for this event, helping the boys raise more than $100,000 in less than four hours. Proceeds from the Senior Auction provide funding for a variety of important Marksmen activities and traditions and enable the class to make a substantial contribution back to the School on the day of their graduation. This gift, known as the “Senior Legacy Gift,” is announced at the Graduate
What began as a fundraiser by the senior class has resulted in a gift that will benefit Marksmen for decades
Luncheon on the day of Commencement and typically includes a directed gift to support several important school-wide priorities.
to come: The Class of 2022 Scholarship Fund. Given the unprecedented response to this year’s Each year, the senior class hosts an auction,
auction and its record-breaking financial tally,
offering a wide variety of items and experiences
the Class of 2022 immediately approached the
donated by the members of the class. In late
administration about making a significant gift to
September, the Class of 2022 gathered in Decherd
the School in addition to their Senior Legacy Gift
Fine Arts Center to host their own Senior Auction.
this coming May.
In front of a crowd of parents, younger Marksmen, faculty, staff, and other friends of the School, the
Eugene McDermott Headmaster David W. Dini
seniors auctioned off a wide variety of offerings
noted that, “within 24 hours of the Auction, senior
donated by members of the class.
leaders reached out to ask what they could do to help the School.” After a series of discussions, the
This year’s unique items included artistic
class decided to contribute $50,000 to establish
creations, musical performances, athletic events,
the Class of 2022 Scholarship Fund, which will
a St. Mark’s Senior flag signed by every member
provide expanded opportunities for more boys to
of the class, and much more. Seniors also offered
attend St. Mark’s.
some unforgettable experiences, drawing on
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
Spotlight
Student Council President Alex Geng ’22 articulated the Class’s decision to support this particular initiative stating, “At St. Mark’s, we value the tenets of inclusion and diversity, and we believe that every student should have the opportunity to attend the School regardless of financial status.”
“These boys have experienced their share of roadblocks these past few years, from a tornado to the ongoing pandemic, and our incredible
In addition to establishing this endowment, the
community has stepped up to ensure they have
Class of 2022 also plans to continue the well-
a memorable final year,” said English teacher
established Senior Gift tradition at the end of the
GayMarie Vaughn, who co-sponsors the Senior
year. The entire St. Mark’s community thanks
Class along with history teacher Bryan Boucher.
the Senior Class for demonstrating such care,
“As a result, the boys wanted to return the
thoughtfulness, and generosity on behalf of
generosity they experienced. They want to leave
Marksmen who will follow in their footsteps.
a legacy that demonstrates reciprocal care for their community.”
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Features
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
In January 2017, St. Mark’s School of Texas published Goals for St. Mark’s IV, the next phase of its long-term strategic plan. Following months of careful reflection, discussion, and engagement with the community, the School identified goals in six categories. Together, these goals serve as a faithful roadmap for the future. Five years later, we are excited to share some of the incredible progress that has been made toward realizing Goals for St. Mark’s IV.
St. Mark’s School of Texas
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Expand the Computer Science Curriculum With the opening of the Winn Science Center and remodeling of McDermott-Green Science Center, St. Mark’s continues to expand and strengthen its science education program for the boys, including computer science instruction across grades 1-12. With the addition of a Lower School Computer Science Teacher, now each Division has a dedicated computer science faculty member. The opening of the Makerspace created new opportunities for integrating engineering and computer science education. To ensure all Marksmen have a chance to explore this unique space, Makerspace Director Stewart Mayer teaches a “Make It, Break It, Fix It” class for all seventhgrade students, and additional elective courses are
Goal I: Students & Learning (above) Head of Lower School Sherri Darver introduces the new daily schedule to parents in 2020
available to the boys in eighth grade as well as in Upper School.
Learning Beyond St. Mark’s Campus
Conduct a Comprehensive Review
While global travel has been hampered by the
In 2017, the School conducted a comprehensive
pandemic, St. Mark’s Travel Program has used
self-study of all aspects of the School program
the past few years to strengthen its processes
as part of the School’s 10-year Reaccreditation
and ensure that all boys have access to unique
process with the Independent School Association
opportunities outside of Dallas. In 2019, longtime
of the Southwest (ISAS). A Visiting Committee of
faculty member Mark Sullivan was named Director
teachers and administrators from peer schools in
of Physical and Experiential Education, a role that
the region visited campus in 2018 and reported, in
would include providing leadership for student
part, “St. Mark’s breadth of program demonstrates
travel and outdoor education to ensure the long-
a commitment to the whole boy. The boys at
term sustainability of these important experiences
St. Mark’s, to their credit, are admirably articulate
for the boys. When travel does resume in the
about their shared responsibility in creating a
near future, the systems supporting experiential
resoundingly positive school environment.”
education will continue to be strengthened while also providing enhanced opportunities for Marksmen into the future.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
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A New Daily Schedule Following years of careful study and consideration, a new daily schedule was introduced in the 2020–2021 school year. This modified block schedule realizes four fundamental priorities that guided the review, assessment, and development of the daily schedule: maintain program excellence, increase flexibility for students and faculty, expand time for collaboration with students and teachers, and support the health and wellness of the boys. In its September 2020 issue, The ReMarker editorial board declared: “The new schedule has made commendable strides towards improving student life here on campus. Teachers have taken advantage of the new schedule, rewriting their lesson plans and bringing unique and enjoyable experiences to their students — efforts that we
(above) The ISAS Visiting Committee discusses their time on campus in 2018
certainly have noticed.”
Character and Leadership Curriculum
(left) Makerspace Director Stewart Mayer teaches Middle Schoolers
While St. Mark’s has long focused on character and leadership, continues to develop meaningful curriculum and engagement activities to expand what has become a mission-aligned approach to developing the boys into good men. In 2018, the School published The Handbook for Character and Leadership Education which
Comprehensive Health Education
outlines the fundamental concepts, guiding
St. Mark’s has long taken a holistic view of
principles, programmatic framework, and
educating boys. In recent years, the School
outcomes to be realized in grades 4, 8, and 12.
has focused heavily on health and wellness,
The handbook also includes a list of nearly 100
encompassing relational health, physical
vocabulary words relevant to character and
health, and social/emotional health. In recent
leadership education as well as answers to guiding
years, the Counseling Team has expanded to
questions we seek to help the boys answer during
include a dedicated counselor focused on the
their time at St. Mark’s. Additionally, three teaching
needs of boys in each division. The counselors
digests have been published to provide ideas for
regularly coordinate with athletics and physical
ways to approach teaching literature through
education teachers to lead classes that educate
the lens of Character and Leadership. Written by
the boys on topics specific to their physical and
David Brown, the series includes Macbeth, Oedipus
social/emotional well-being, and the new daily
Rex, and The Great Gatsby. Plans are underway
schedule has expanded dedicated class time
for additional publications that will guide the
for this important program to be delivered in a
continued growth of Character and Leadership
comprehensive way across all Divisions.
education at St. Mark’s. St. Mark’s School of Texas
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Goal II: Faculty & Teaching “Each boy drew his own conclusion from the information we processed, which was really gratifying to see.” —GayMarie Vaughn
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
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Supporting Educational Expertise Recruiting and retaining the best educators in the country continues to be a priority for the School. Additionally, St. Mark’s is dedicated to providing professional development support to current faculty, as teachers pursue workshops, travel, graduate school, and other opportunities to nurture their desire for continued learning.
Technology for Teaching When a tornado and global pandemic disrupted
(above) Third-grade teacher Erica Hershner welcomes boys on the first day of school
campus life, St. Mark’s was able to quickly migrate online thanks to recent, extensive upgrades to its IT infrastructure. Beginning in 2019, the School transitioned many of its digital tools to the Cloud
(left) Cameron Hillier ’13, Upper School English Teacher and Director of the Wilderness Program
through Microsoft 365. As a result, teachers and students can collaborate and learn together on or off campus. Even massive collaborative projects like the student newspaper and yearbook were able to organize through Microsoft Teams, share files through OneDrive, and edit stories through Microsoft Word.
Similarly, for her unit reviews, fourth-grade teacher Lauren Fischer is drawing inspiration from the popular Escape Room games. Boys work in teams,
Encourage Innovative Teaching
using what they learned to complete challenges,
Across campus, teachers are encouraged to get
solve puzzles, and unlock clues. Each step reveals
creative in their classrooms, finding new and
a piece of the secret coded message that will allow
exciting ways to educate their students. For
the boys to “escape.”
example, in the English Department, seniors can choose from a number of unique, seminar-style
“It’s really fun, gets the group dynamics working in
electives. Dr. John Perryman teaches “A 100-Year
a way that requires adaptability and compromise,
Partnership: A History of Dallas and St. Mark’s,”
and reinforces content,” says Fischer.
which dovetails with his broader work in Civic Responsibility. GayMarie Vaughn offers an elective
Walk campus on any given day, and you will
called “Literature of Human Rights,” which is
see boys programming drones they have laser
inspired by her own ongoing doctoral work.
cut in the Makerspace, delivering lines in the amphitheater from Shakespearean plays, applying
“Since the subject includes topics that are
economic models to real-world problems, or
sometimes polarizing, the boys learned to listen
examining microscopic cells through the lens
and discuss controversial topics with respect,” said
of sophisticated microscopes in Middle School
Vaughn. “Each boy drew his own conclusion from
science. Innovative instruction combined with a
the information we processed, which was really
devotion to teaching continues to be realized in
gratifying to see.”
new ways each year.
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Access & Affordability For more than two years, a committee comprising both School leadership and Trustees has met to
Goal III: Enrollment, Access & Affordability
review strategies for attracting, enrolling, and retaining the most qualified students while also expanding access and affordability so that any qualified boy in Dallas will be able to attend St. Mark’s to thrive and contribute to the richness
Strengthen Admission Practices
of the school community. Realizing this goal
The mission of the Admission Office is to assemble
benefits all students at St. Mark’s as the range of
the most qualified student body from a broadly
lived experiences that each boy brings with him to
diverse pool of applicants who exhibit intellectual
campus adds to the strength of the student body
curiosity, strong character, and a desire to
experience on campus.
contribute to St. Mark’s in meaningful ways. Each year, the Admission team searches for candidates
“Expanding Access & Affordability benefits the
who will not only benefit from a St. Mark’s
entire school community,” said Admission Officer
education but who will also positively contribute
Korey Mack ’00. “There’s a clear and immediate
to the Marksman community. The Admission
benefit to the boys who otherwise could not
team continues to expand programs to introduce
attend St. Mark’s. But those boys also bring unique
St. Mark’s to more families by hosting in-person
backgrounds and perspectives that enrich the
and virtual events to provide more opportunities
entire community. Learning from others who
to introduce St. Mark’s to families while also
have lived different experiences is at the core of
prompting interest from prospective families from
developing empathy, character, and respect.”
across the country and around the world.
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“It is important for students to learn about others with backgrounds dissimilar to their own. That helps build empathy and allows students to become more understanding of others in different situations.” —SeMaj Musco ’21
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Long-Term Facility Needs St. Mark’s had already begun reviewing its campus master plan when the unimaginable happened. Mere weeks after the destruction of Hicks Athletic Center, Spencer Gym was completely renovated into a competition-grade court — just in time to host the winter basketball season. A few months later, when the pandemic interrupted daily life, the School charted an ambitious course to bring students safely back to campus. From major HVAC upgrades to socially distanced classrooms,
Goal IV: Campus Resources
St. Mark’s optimized its facilities to continue providing an exceptional educational experience during this difficult time. Now, attention turns
(above) The Winn Science Center atrium (opposite) Fourth-grade teacher Lauren Fischer uses her smart screen to lead a vocabulary game
A New Science Center As with continued expansion and strengthening of programs across the campus, the Science Center Project provides an illustration of what can be realized when facilities complement and inspire program. With the opening of the Winn Science Center and renovation of the McDermottGreen Physical Science Center, the School has continued to “strengthen and expand science and technology education” enhancing long-standing programs such as the planetarium, greenhouse, and laboratory science to expanding programs to include an engineering and makerspace that teaches boys design, engineering, fabrication, and prototyping to the dedicated Lower School Science classroom that provides our youngest Lions with authentic lab experiences in view of the older boys. Across grades 1–12, Marksmen are engaged in hands-on science exploration and education.
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to the northeast corner of campus as we begin design phases for a new athletic center complex to not only replace Hicks Gym, which was lost in the tornado, but to design a complex that will inspire Marksmen for decades into the future.
Maintain an Excellent Physical Plant Alongside major building projects like Athletics and Science, the School has been continuously evaluating and updating spaces across campus. The ellipse nestled between the Science Center and Lower School has become a key green space, hosting community events and meaningful moments of community connection. A new playground was built within the corner of the Fojtasek Family Lower School building, creating a safe and fun space for young Lions to interact and explore. And the School captured thousands of square feet of developable land by moving the north fence line several feet toward Orchid Lane.
St. Mark’s School of Texas
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A Safe & Secure Campus
Classroom Technology
Providing students with a safe learning
To ensure that faculty have the tools they need to
environment continues to be a top priority.
support classroom instruction, the Technology
The security team continues regular review of
team continues to proactively upgrade faculty and
tools and protocols to maintain a safe campus,
staff technology while providing training on the
bolstering existing security and safety procedures.
most current teaching tools. Classrooms are also
More than 100 security cameras watch over
getting smarter, with the implementation of touch-
campus, a new visitor screening system keeps track
sensitive smart televisions designed especially for
of anyone coming on campus, exterior doors are
education. And while tools are readily available
now secured with card access, and additional off-
to teachers, sitting around the Harkness Table
duty and retired Dallas Police Officers have joined
engaged in discussions, conducting hands-on
the security team.
experiments in the lab, or going to the white-board to work through math problems continues to be
In modern times, “safety” extends into the digital
integral practices of instruction.
world as well. To protect the School from emerging cyber threats, the Technology team routinely upgrades firewalls, email filters, and antivirus software, as well as hosting regular cyber security training with faculty and staff.
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Alumni, parents, and students come together on and off campus
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Goal V: Institutional Stewardship its commitment to incur no debt toward major
Financial Resources
building projects. The Athletic Center Project, just
Thanks in large part to the community’s
like the Science Center Project a few years earlier,
unwavering support, St. Mark’s has steadily
will break ground only after 100% of commitments
navigated uncertain economic times. The School’s
are secured.
Endowment continues to outperform expectations, earning a 28.6% return during the 2021 fiscal year for a year-end value of nearly $170 million. The St. Mark’s Fund also continues to go above and beyond its goal, supporting more than 10% of the School’s annual operating budget. And the School continues to bolster its planned giving program. Since 2017, more than 40 individuals have joined the Terrill Society by including St. Mark’s in their estate plans for a combined $23 million in deferred commitments. And, as the School makes significant progress toward a new athletic center complex, the Board of Trustees is able to keep the School financially healthy thanks to careful planning and thoughtful fiscal policy. In particular, St. Mark’s has continued
St. Mark’s School of Texas
Expand Parent and Alumni Engagement The St. Mark’s family extends far beyond the classrooms, playing fields, and art studios. Parents and alumni are integral to the culture of St. Mark’s and ensure that the community continues to strengthen and grow long after each Marksman has graduated. The Parents’ Association and Alumni Association work tirelessly every year to keep their respective communities connected to St. Mark’s. Regular events like Alumni Weekend, Celebrate St. Mark’s, and visiting speakers provide ample opportunities for parents and alumni to engage with the School and each other. Students participate in these extended communities as well, with the Student Alumni Association connecting Upper School boys with alumni mentors. Spring 2022 | Features
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Goal VI: Civic Responsibility “We are grateful for the School’s support as we pursue our goal of developing more knowledgeable, skilled, and empathetic citizens of our country and the larger world.” —Dr. John Perryman
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Civic Engagement & Leadership When they leave 10600 Preston Road, all Marksmen are expected to assume roles of leadership and responsibility in their communities. To continue to build upon this mission, the School recently established a new role: Director of Civic Responsibility. To fill this unique position, veteran St. Mark’s educator Dr. John Perryman returned to campus after a year working in the Dallas area nonprofit sector. His efforts now focus on teaching Marksmen about civic engagement, public policy, and local governance. Initial programmatic efforts include hosting special guest speakers from local community groups, touring locations including the African American Museum of Dallas and the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, and even connecting AP Economics students with the Childhood Poverty Action Lab to help study and solve real-world issues. Additionally, Dr. Perryman offers a one-semester English 12 elective titled “A 100 Year Partnership: A History of Dallas and St. Mark’s.” In addition to the history of both Dallas and St. Mark’s, students examine how a city functions and the civic areas necessary for a city to thrive.
and hosting musical performances. Additionally, St. Mark’s College Counseling team shared their expertise at the Center’s College and Job Fair Day over winter break. In addition to sharing facilities and student service, St. Mark’s hosts educators
Share with the Dallas Community
from across the country on campus who wish
St. Mark’s continues to partner with local public
to learn more about Character and Leadership
schools to use the Winn Science Center’s state-
Education as well as other programs.
(above) Fourth-grade students visit local civic landmarks, including the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum and the African American Museum of Dallas
of-the-art planetarium. Additionally, the School has formed a close relationship with the Wesley Rankin Community Center, serving West Dallas. Upper Schoolers regularly spend time at the Center’s after-school program, tutoring children
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
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A FOUNDATION for the FUTURE ATHLETIC CENTER PROJECT GAINS MOMENTUM On the evening of October 19, 2019, St. Mark’s was
In the weeks following the tornado, thanks to
struck by an EF-3 tornado that cut a path of damage
an incredible community and tireless physical
across North Texas. The north side of campus
plant team, Morris G. Spencer Gymnasium
took the brunt of the blow, resulting in a total loss
was completely renovated into a competition-
of the Thomas O. Hicks Family Athletic Center
level court just in time for the varsity basketball
and Albert G. Hill Family Tennis Courts. In many
team’s 2020 SPC Championship winning season.
ways, planning for a new athletic complex began
Likewise, the School solved numerous logistical
that next morning, as the St. Mark’s community
hurdles to ensure that every sport had facilities in
surveyed the campus. There were plenty of short-
which to practice and compete. With immediate
term needs that had to be addressed – not the least
needs addressed, St. Mark’s also began looking
of which being the impending start of the winter
ahead and envisioning how the northeast corner of
sports season. But amid the destruction, there was
campus could be rebuilt and maximized.
also an opportunity to build upon the School’s already solid foundation.
“At St. Mark’s, we always consider the long-term impact of each decision, and new facilities like
“The devastating loss of Hicks Gym and its adjacent facilities created a number of challenges
this one will benefit the boys and faculty for generations to come,” said Carl Sewell III ’02,St.
for our School, but also presented us with a
Mark’s Trustee and Chair of the Athletic Center
unique opportunity to look ahead to the future
Planning Committee. “Simply replacing Hicks
and improve our campus,” said Sean Lissemore,
Gym would solve our immediate needs, but now
Director of Athletics, who joined St. Mark’s just four
we have an opportunity to invest significantly
months before the 2019 tornado. “It is certainly
in athletics and reshape the entire north end
exciting to think about the possibilities for this new
of campus.”
facility and how it will help to support the growth and development of our students by addressing both current and future programmatic needs.” St. Mark’s School of Texas
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significant financial commitments have also been made towards the project that affirm the confidence and belief our community members have in the School and the progress to date. In the latter part of 2021, a group of administrators, Trustees, and professional partners embarked on a field trip to peer schools in the Washington, D.C. area. The group toured several of CannonDesign’s (above) Carl Sewell III ’02 and David Dini participate in a creative ideation exercise for CannonDesign
The journey from a destroyed gymnasium to a state-
previous athletic projects at Sidwell Friends School,
of-the-art athletic complex will require hundreds
The Potomac School, and Episcopal High School
of steps and thousands of decisions. Since early
(Alexandria, Virginia).
2020, the Athletic Center Planning Committee has been focused on laying the figurative groundwork necessary to begin actual construction. The Board
“Walking through these spaces allowed us to really envision what is possible for St. Mark’s,” said
of Trustees recently passed several important
Scott Jolly, Assistant Headmaster for External
milestones on this journey, such as securing
Affairs. “It has been equally important to invite
approval from the City of Dallas for a conceptual
the architects and designers to our campus and
Planned Development Document. This, in turn,
introduce them to St. Mark’s. They understand that
allowed the School to immediately start on another
this new facility is not just for athletics but for the
important project: repairing and straightening
entire community.”
the north fence line and moving it closer to Orchid Lane, thus recapturing valuable square
As 2022 began, the Athletic Center Planning
footage for development. Another significant step
Committee moved the design process forward
came with the selection of major partners for the
and began refining plans for the St. Mark’s athletic
Athletic Center Project, including CannonDesign,
complex. With several rounds of feedback and
Beck Construction and Architecture, Legends
insight distilled, project partners are hard at work
Project Management, Counsilman-Hunsacker
fine tuning plans and renderings that will support a
pool consultants, and Campus Master Planner
new generation of Lions athletics.
Jeff Blanchard, among others. A number of very
PROJECT TIMELINE
2019 TORNADO STRIKES An EF-3 tornado strikes causing damage across campus and destroying several key athletics facilities.
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2020 CLEARING THE WAY Crews demolish and remove the remains of the Thomas O. Hicks Family Athletic Center.
PLANNING AHEAD The Athletic Center Planning Committee is formed and plans for the future home of athletics.
ENVISIONING THE FUTURE Longtime Campus Master Planner Jeff Blanchard guides discussions about campus redevelopment and athletic facilities.
St. Mark’s School of Texas
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(clockwise from top left) Crews grade the newly expanded space along Orchid Lane Members of the Athletic Center Planning Committee tour athletic facilities in the Washington, D.C. area Athletic Director Sean Lissemore leads a current full assessment of athletic facilities
“Through athletics, Marksmen learn the invaluable benefits of thoughtful sportsmanship, teamwork,
for every day academically, athletically, and personally in their values and character.”
and the hard work required to achieve excellence,” said Kathy Crow, President of the Board of Trustees
The Athletic Center Planning Committee continues
and parent of two alumni. “This athletic complex
to hold regular meetings with CannonDesign and
project is the embodiment of how athletics can
all of its professional project partners to turn the
contribute in these ways to all students. These
future of St. Mark’s athletics from a dream into a
first-class facilities will reflect the same level of
reality. The Committee hopes to finalize the design
excellence and merit that we hope our boys strive
this year, with a groundbreaking to happen within the next 12 months.
2021 NEIGHBORHOOD MEETINGS The School hosts a series of community engagement meetings to share redevelopment plans with surrounding residents and city officials. St. Mark’s School of Texas
2022 CITY APPROVAL Dallas City Council approves the updated Campus Planned Development Document, including the construction of a new Athletic Complex.
PROJECT TEAM ASSEMBLED After a national search, CannonDesign is selected to strengthen the project team. A field trip to peer schools is conducted.
COMING INTO FOCUS The Athletic Center Planning Committee leads ongoing program and design meetings to prepare for groundbreaking.
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Remarks 1957 | Reunion
1995
On December 8, 2021, JUSTIN MCCARTY ’57, JIM HAZLEWOOD ’57,
In September 2021, St. Mark’s teacher and acclaimed artist
JON OUSLEY ’57, RICK LANE ’57, NELSON SPENCER ’57, and
WILLIAM ATKINSON ’95 had his art on display in NorthPark Mall
JIM PERKINS ’57 gathered for lunch at Northwood Country Club in
as part of Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center’s Art for Advocacy
advance of their Class’s 65th reunion celebration in April 2022.
Auction.
1968
1996
In January 2021, ALAN THIEMANN ’68 was named Partner in the
CHRIS LEE ’96, his two children, James and Daniela, and his
IP/technology Seattle law firm of Han Santos, PLLC, resident
brother JULIAN LEE ’98 gathered with their parents Ed and
in the firm’s new office in Alexandria, Virginia. He is serving
Grace Lee to celebrate Ed’s birthday. Chris and Ed are both
as practice lead for the Privacy, Data Security & Testing group,
Emeritus Trustees.
managing three lawyers in the Alexandria office, one in the Seattle office, and one contract lawyer in the New York City office.
1998 JIM BOB WOMACK ’98 and ERIC BARTA ’99 connected with
1978
Head Soccer Coach CORY MARTIN on December 10, in
PAUL SCHMIDT ’78 captured the Gold Medal in the National
San Antonio when the Lions traveled south for a match against
Championships Men’s Foil "Veterans" group in Atlanta, Georgia,
Saint Mary’s Hall.
this summer. His win qualified him for the "Veterans" World Championships, which were canceled due to COVID. Some
2001
of Paul’s greatest influences on his fencing career were former
The ReMarker Campout returned to Texas this year for their
faculty member, DANIEL NEVOT, KERRY SULKOWICZ ’77, and
20th annual event. BRIAN BENEKE ’01, SCOTT SELINGER ’01,
CHUCK HELMS ’76.
ANIRUDDHA BETTE ’01, DAN MICHALSKI ’90, NICK ORENSTEIN ’01
1985 Genevieve Wolff and STEVE JURVETSON ’85 celebrated their
gathered at dinner in Austin. MATT BRADFORD ’01 joined the festivities the next day for boating on Lake Travis.
marriage in Half Moon Bay, California, on January 13, 2022. The
2003
couple live in Los Altos, California, where Steve is the Managing
Kanchana and ARISH GUPTA ’03 welcomed their daughter Milana
Director and Founder of Future Ventures.
“Mila” Sanvi Gupta, into the world in October 2021. The Gupta
1987
family resides in Dallas.
PAUL GENENDER ’87 and his parents, Joanie and Larry
Genender, visited the Winn Science Center to see the plaque bearing their family’s name on the office of fellow graduate, DAN NORTHCUT ’81.
1988 Former football teammates JEFF HAWKINS ’88 and BRIAN HARGROVE ’88 reunited in Massachusetts in December.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
Remarks
Members of the Class of 1957 Paul Schmidt ’78 Genevieve Wolff and Steve Jurvetson ’85 Paul Genender ’87, Joanie and Larry Genender, and Dan Northcut ’81 Jeff Hawkins ’88 and Brian Hargrove ’88 William Atkinson ’95 Chris Lee ’96 with his family Jim Bob Womack ’98 and Eric Barta ’99 with Cory Martin The ReMarker Campout Kanchana and Arish Gupta ’03 welcomed Milana Sanvi Gupta
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Remarks
Members of the Class of 2003 Lauren Piper married Barrett Johnson ’06 Meyer Korngut Tait, Jack and Owen Walker The Fletcher family Adelaide Collins Kline The celebration for William Hicks ’10 Lieutenant Tower Cook ’12 married Tiffany Byrd
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2003 (continued) On Saturday, December 4, members of the Class of 2003 gathered at the American Airlines Center to watch the Memphis Grizzlies,
Charlotte. The Fletchers reside in Dallas, along with their dog, Georgia. Madison is the newest granddaughter to DWIGHT FLETCHER ’75 and his wife Bitsy.
led by Head Coach TAYLOR JENKINS ’03, defeat the Dallas Mavericks 97 – 90.
Courtney and DAVID GILBERG ’07 welcomed a baby boy, Simon, into the world on January 4, 2022. The Gilberg family lives
JOHN TOUGH ’03 recently started as a Board Member for Smartcar.
in Dallas.
He is a Co-founder and the Managing Partner at Energize Ventures, a venture capital and growth equity firm focused on accelerating the digital innovation of energy and sustainability.
LUKE KLINE ’07 and his wife Tory welcomed a daughter, Adelaide
Collins Kline, into their family on December 6, 2021. Collins is the couple’s first child and the niece of WILLIE KLINE ’00.
2004 MARK HARIZ ’04 was promoted to Operating Partner, Head of
Corporate Development at Alkeon Capital Management. BRANNIN MCBEE ’04 is the Co-founder and CSO of CoreWeave,
a specialized cloud provider built for NVIDIA GPU-accelerated workload. In November 2021, CoreWeave raised $50 million from Magnetar Capital, a leading alternative investor. NEIL FERRINI ’04 and his wife Caroline recently welcomed their
son James into their family. James joins the Ferrini family as the
2008 JASON BLUNK ’08 has accepted a new role as a Data Scientist at
MVPIndex where he resides in Dallas.
2010 Paige Sigband and WILLIAM HICKS ’10 recently celebrated their engagement. The party was attended by JEANIE LAUBE and alumni from the Class of 2010, including MICHAEL SHULMAN ’10, DANIEL RAFKIN ’10, WILLIAM HICKS ’10, TOM DUFFY ’10, DILLON DANDURAND ’10, and FRED ADDY ’10.
younger brother to Oliver and Eleanor.
2012
2006
Tiffany Byrd and Lieutenant TOWER COOK ’12 exchanged wedding
Lauren Piper and BARRETT JOHNSON ’06 were married in November 2021. The Johnsons reside in Salt Lake City, Utah. ALEX ROSS KORNGUT ’06 and his wife, Alex, welcomed their baby
boy, Meyer Korngut, into the world on July 11, 2021. The Korngut family resides in Dallas. Shannon and ZACH WALKER ’06 celebrated the end of 2021 by adding a baby boy to their family on December 29. Brothers Tait and Jack were excited to meet Baby Owen. The Walker family lives in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. ANDREW SMITH ’06 and his wife, Jessica, welcomed their first
child, Cambrian (Cam) Rex Hinojosa Smith, on August 31, 2021.
2007
vows on November 28, 2021, at The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. The newlyweds will make their home in Cambridge, England, where Tower is stationed at RAF Molesworth with USAFRICOM.
2013 In September 2021, BRYCE AHART ’13 started a new job at STARZ as the producer for Starz’s critically acclaimed wrestling drama HEELS. He currently resides in Los Angeles, California. MICHAEL GILLILAND ’13, former engineer at SpaceX, is now
working at Neuralink, a brain research startup founded by Elon Musk. Meg and MARK SENTER ’13 were married on October 16, 2021, and reside in Dallas.
JOEL FLETCHER ’07 and his wife, Kristin, welcomed their
daughter, Madison Anne, on January 29, 2021. Madison joins the Fletcher family as their second child and younger sister to St. Mark’s School of Texas
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Lauren and Cameron Baxley ’14 welcomed Hank Baxley Seun Omonije ’18 Lauren and Trent Calder welcomed Clarke Trenton Calder Anna and Tim Crouch welcomed Henry Crouch Katherine Magruder married Bryan Boucher Lauren and Glenn Stroh Jonas Michael Wood Nick and Lexie Zitaglio welcomed Eliza Grace Zitaglio
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2014
Faculty & Staff
CAMERON BAXLEY ’14 and his wife Lauren welcomed their son
Lauren and TRENT CALDER welcomed their baby Clarke Trenton
Hank into the world on August 31, 2021.
Calder on October 21, 2021. At birth, Clarke weighed a healthy 7 lbs 11oz. Trent serves as the St. Mark’s Aquatics
FORD ROBINSON ’14 has started a new role as Banking Officer and
teacher and coach.
Portfolio Manager at WaFd Bank. Isaiah and ISABEL CISNEROS welcomed their baby, Kai Mateo RILEY GRAHAM ’14 was promoted to Senior Associate in the Real
Cisneros, born on November 2, 2021 at 6 lb. 15 oz. and 18.5 inches.
Estate Group at Blackstone.
Isabel is the Assistant Director of Community Service and teaches Spanish.
LUKE WILLIAMS ’14 launched his own personal landing page,
www.LukeWilliamsPhD.com, to display his writing, research,
Anna and TIM CROUCH welcomed their second son, Henry, on
and consultation work.
June 6, 2021. Henry joins the Crouch family as the younger brother
2015
to George. Tim joined St. Mark’s as the Director of Development in June 2021.
MATTHEW MEADOWS ’15 graduated with his MBA in Sports
Entertainment Management from the University of North Texas
KEVIN DILWORTH was recently inducted into the Sports Hall of
in December 2021.
Fame at Abilene Christian University for his collegiate long jump
2018
achievements and indoor national championship win in 1996. Kevin serves as the Strength and Conditioning coach.
In November 2021, SEUN OMONIJE ’18 announced he will be returning to Google for a full-time position at the Quantum AI
JASON LANGE was appointed the Chair of the 2022 International
team in Los Angeles, California.
Boys School Coalition (IBSC) Conference that will be held at St. Mark’s in June 2022. On February 12, 2022, faculty members KATHERINE MAGRUDER and BRYAN BOUCHER were married in New York City. Lauren and GLENN STROH were married in the Texas Hill Country on December 17, 2021. Glenn is the St. Mark’s Choirmaster and Organist. Bryan and KATE WOOD welcomed their son, Jonas Michael Wood, on February 27. At birth, Jonas weighed 10 pounds and was 21 inches long. Kate is the Middle and Upper School Art Teacher. Nick and LEXIE ZITAGLIO welcomed their daughter, Eliza Grace, on December 9, 2021. Eliza weighed 7 lbs. and measured 21 inches in length. Lexie is the Assistant Director of Alumni Relations.
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Remarks
in memoriam Alumni A. JOHN BEHRENS ’57, September 18, 2021. HARRY “SAM” D. HAWN ’61, October 6, 2021, brother of
Joe V. Hawn, Jr. ’64. ROBERT S. SRIGLEY ’63, August 6, 2021. LOYD W. POWELL, JR. ’64, September 11, 2021. S. DANIEL EDWARDS ’71, November 2, 2021.
Emeritus Trustee WILLIAM “BILL” M. LAMONT, JR. ’67 passed away on January 25, 2022. Bill attended St. Mark’s for 12 years and continued his education at University of North Carolina where he graduated with a degree in Political Science in 1971. Throughout his time at UNC, Bill worked on the 1970 Senatorial campaign of George H.W. Bush and went on to work in Washington, D.C. as a staff assistant to Richard Nixon
DONALD W. WINSPEAR ’77, September 17, 2021, brother of
Malcolm G. Winspear ’78 and Robert L. Winspear ’83. DALE WEYAND ’78, November 25, 2021. THOMAS U. MATTINGLY ’16, December 10, 2021.
until Nixon resigned in 1974. Following his time in D.C., Bill and his wife Mary Noel moved back to Dallas where he
Community Members
had a 50-year business career in various energy, financial,
AUBREY C. “ACE” BLACK, JR., January 3, 2022, grandfather of
transportation and real estate entrepreneurial ventures.
J. Houston Golden ’08 and G. Hawkins Golden III ’07, father-in-law of G. Hawkins Golden II ’70.
Bill was actively involved in several organizations, including the Dallas Museum of Art (DMA). His involvement began at
JANICE C. BLUMENTHAL, March 10, 2021, grandmother
the DMA when he joined as a member in 1988 and included
of Jordan Blumenthal ’08, Lucas Blumenthal ’24, and
serving on the Board of Trustees since 2013. Until his passing,
Samuel Blumenthal ’26.
Bill was serving as the Chairman of the Board since 2018. He also served as a member of the Budget and Finance Committee from 2004 – 2005. In addition to the DMA, Bill served on the St. Mark’s Board of Trustees from 1987 – 1996. Throughout his time on the Board,
GERARD A. BOUCHER, November 11, 2021, father of faculty
member Bryan M. Boucher and father-in-law of faculty member Katherine Magruder. SHIRLEY CUBAN, February 4, 2022, grandmother of Jake Cuban ’28.
Bill was a part of the Education Committee from 1992 – 1994,
JOSEPH W. FAY, February 18, 2022, father of Nathan W. Fay ’92 and
the Executive Committee from 1993 – 1994, and the Finance
grandfather of Matthew J. Fay ’30.
Committee from 1994 – 1996. JERRY FEFERMAN, July 27, 2020, grandfather of Hugh Feferman ’26.
Bill is survived by his wife Mary Noel, sons William “Max” Lamont III ’96 and J. Miles Lamont ’98, grandson William
NANCY JO FISH, October 25, 2021, mother of Johnathan C. Fish ’92
Lamont ’28, and brother-in-law John D. Murchison ’66.
and Joel A. Fish ’96, grandfather of Henry F. Fish ’33. JOAN BARBOUR GRAY, November 29, 2021, mother of David G.
Rogers ’77 and James B. Rogers ’85, grandmother of Michael B. Cole ’08, Christopher B. Rhoades ’09, and James E. Rogers ’19.
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HELEN C. GRIER, January 14, 2022, mother of Jogn F. Grier ’76
BILL SLATES, August 30, 2021, father of Emeritus Trustee
and the late Thomas P. Grier ’86, and grandmother of
Leigh S. Koch, grandfather of Nicholas B. Koch ’22 and
Daniel S. Gillette ’10.
Thomas Bowden Slates ’23.
LAWRENCE L. HANSON III, January 7, 2022, father
JAMES W. WOMACK, January 1, 2022, grandfather of James
of Benjamin M. Hanson ’93 and Brian A. Hanson ’95,
“Jim Bob” Womack ’98, and great-grandfather of
grandfather of Owen A. Hanson ’26 and Wyatt E. Hanson ’27.
James Brayden Womack ’18 and Robert “Bo” Womack ’28.
REAGIN HULTS, August 19, 2021, former staff member.
JEAN T. WORTLEY, January 13, 2022, mother of Lower School
Administrative Assistant Kathy Mallick, and grandmother of Sam BONNIE B. LANNEN, January 17, 2022, grandmother of Richard
Mallick ’10, Joe Mallick ’11, Jack Mallick ’14, and Will Mallick ’20.
Aidan Lannen ’25. CAROLYN C. YOUNG, January 26, 2022, mother of CHARLENE P. LEVERING, December 7, 2021, mother
Stephen R. Young ’70.
of Craig R. Levering ’75 and great-grandmother of Hunter J. Redlich, IV ’32. BARBARA JEAN LEVY, November 14, 2021, grandmother of
Hugh J. Feferman ’26. TIM HICKS, ST. MARK'S BAND DIRECTOR THERESA LENEAU, November 18, 2021, mother of Assistant
Tim Hicks passed away unexpectedly on
Head of Upper School Jason Leneau, and grandmother of
March 4, 2022. For more than two decades,
Isaiah D. Leneau ’32.
Mr. Hicks served the School and all the boys in his care with unwavering dedication
IRMA M. LOPEZ, September 25, 2021, grandmother of Enrique
and enthusiasm. We will be sharing more
A. Villarreal ’98 and Esteban Villarreal ’03, great-grandmother
about his legacy and impact in the next issue
of Emory I. Villarreal ’30.
of The PRIDE.
JOHN W. MORAN, September 20, 2021, grandfather of
Aidan C. Moran ’25.
“Tim’s greatest passion was teaching band and inspiring students to find the magic moments in a song, to listen to each other, and to play with joy.”
HELEN RUTH PARKS, November 20, 2021, mother of
Robert B. Parks ’71.
—Marion Glorioso-Kirby, Anthony Vintcent Fine Arts Department Chair
CATERINA PICCAGLI, October 21, 2021, mother of
Lawrence Piccagli ’85, Massimo Piccagli ’82, and the late Paul Piccagli ’80, grandmother of Alessandro J. Piccagli ’20, Paul S. Piccagli ’12, and Henry J. Piccagli ’22. VICTOR G. RENDA, November 20, 2021, half-brother of
Rocco R. Renda ’26 and Enzo R. Renda ’28. WALTER N. SKINNER, M.D., January 15, 2022, father of
Walter N. Skinner III ’92.
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Endnotes ONLINE GIVING The St. Mark’s Fund is the School’s most important, ongoing fundraising priority, providing more than 10 percent of its annual operating budget. You may give online through our secure server at www.smtexas.org/smfund. Every gift makes a difference.
THE
PRIDE
St. Mark’s School of Texas Community Magazine
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
ARCHIVES
Scott Moore
From the Terrill School all the way to St. Mark’s School of Texas, ours is
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
a school with a long and rich history. If you have school memorabilia that you would like to donate to St. Mark’s to be preserved in our archives, please contact the Office of Development & Alumni Relations at 214.346.8800.
David Carden
COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Alex Hughes
ASSISTANT HEADMASTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS Scott Jolly
SUBMISSIONS Do you have a great story you’d like to share with your fellow alumni? Have you made any changes in your life such as a new job, new degree, marriage, children, or other announcement? Please send your stories, along with any photos, to the Office of Development & Alumni Relations
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT Tim Crouch
AHLBERG & RIBMAN FAMILY DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Alex Eshelbrenner ’04
so we can include them in our next issue. Submissions may be made in any of three ways: • www.smtexas.org/alumni/class-notes Use our online form to send in your “Remarks.” • Email | eshelbrennera@smtexas.org Send your information and high-resolution photos to Alex Eshelbrenner ’04 at eshelbrennera@smtexas.org. • U.S. Mail Send to St. Mark’s School of Texas, Attn. Alex Eshelbrenner, 10600 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75230-4047 Submissions not included in this edition will appear in the next issue of The Pride.
THE PRIDE is published twice annually by St. Mark’s School of Texas, Office of Development & Alumni Relations, 10600 Preston Road, Dallas, Texas 75230-4047, and is distributed to alumni, parents, and friends of the School. In producing this magazine, every effort has been made to ensure that it is accurate. Please report any errors, or receipt of multiple copies, to the Office of Development & Alumni Relations, and accept our sincerest apologies. St. Mark’s School of Texas does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. ©2022 St. Mark’s School of Texas An Office of Development & Alumni Relations Publication
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
Leave Your Mark D R . R E Y B O S I TA & D R . J U D Y H S U B O S I TA
“As a family enjoying the St. Mark’s experience of today, we asked ourselves, ‘How can we make it even better in the future?’” —Dr. Rey Bosita & Dr. Judy Hsu Bosita
As parents of four current Marksmen and close relatives of several alumni, few families are more entrenched within the St. Mark’s community than Dr. Rey Bosita & Dr. Judy Hsu Bosita. And while deep familial ties can certainly impact one’s fervor for supporting the School, for Rey, it was a joint experience with his son, Carson ’25, that created a very real and tangible bond with our school. “The Frank Jordan Wilderness Trip to Wyoming was instrumental to us falling more in love with St. Mark’s. I never had an opportunity like that in my education,” said Rey. “It would have been incredible to spend a week camping in Wyoming with my Dad and all my classmates!” There is no denying that the St. Mark’s experience is both difficult and competitive, but the experiences and resources provided to the boys daily through the long-term support of so many community members create an atmosphere in which every Marksmen can succeed. Members of the Menter B. Terrill Society maximize their support of St. Mark’s through planned gifts and leave a legacy that will benefit future generations of Marksmen. This society celebrates alumni, parents, and friends who include the School in their long term philanthropic plans. Estate gifts, retirement plan beneficiary designations and other planned gift vehicles provide critical resources that ensure St. Mark’s can sustainably deliver an exceptional education and transformative growth opportunities. For Rey and Judy, joining The Terrill Society was a monumental step in their relationship with St. Mark’s. “It was a huge step putting St. Mark’s in our will, but in the end the decision was very easy. We choose to honor places that improve our lives and the lives of our four sons, and St. Mark’s has done just that,” said Rey. “In fact, we see every day on campus as another opportunity for our sons to learn and grow even more. The years they spend at St. Mark’s will pay great dividends in college and beyond.”
THE TERRILL SOCIETY To learn more or join the Terrill Society, please visit smtexas.org/plannedgiving, or contact Tim Crouch in the Office of Development & Alumni Relations at 214.346.8809 or croucht@smtexas.org.
10600 Preston Road Dallas, Texas 75230-4047 214.346.8000 • www.smtexas.org
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Goals for St. Mark’s IV | The Athletic Center Project
THE PRIDE | Spring 2022 | Vol. 27, No. 1
