New Testing Shows Students Mastering Critical Writing and Problem Solving

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Spring 2014 Achievement Asheville School Alumni Magazine

New Testing Shows Students Mastering

Critical Writing and Problem SolvingAchievement • Spring 2014 1 Achievement Spring 2014

BOARD OF TRUSTEES An Education For An Inspired Life Ms. E. Parce Ainsworth 1983 Published for Alumni & Friends of Asheville School Mr. Harris M. Baker 1974 by the Advancement Department Mr. Marshall T. Bassett 1972 Asheville School 360 Asheville School Road Mr. John A. Boland III P ‘99 Asheville, North Carolina 28806 Mr. Gregory R. Close 2003 (Associate) 828.254.6345 Mr. Peter J. Covington 1971 www.ashevilleschool.org Mr. Walter G. Cox, Jr. 1972 P ‘06

Editor Ms. Ann Craver P ‘11 Bob Williams Mr. D. Tadley DeBerry 1981 Assistant Head of School for Advancement Ms. Ayla Ficken P ‘09 John Thorsen 1987 Mr. William G. Francis 1964 P ‘96 Writers Vice Chairman Bob Williams Mr. Robert T. Gamble 1971 Sheila Steelman Tom Marberger 1969 Mr. Peter L. Hellebush 1964 Travis Price Tish Anderson Ms. Mandy K. Helton 2000 (Associate) Ms. Charla A. Hughes 2004 (Associate) Proof Readers Tish Anderson Ms. Jean Graham Keller 1995 Bob Williams Mr. Richard J. Kelly 1968 Travis Price Ms. Marilyn Higi Kincaid 1991 Printing Mr. Lee McGriff III 1970 Lane Press Dr. Gregory K. Morris 1972 Photographers Mr. Alexander G. Paderewski 1968 P ‘06 ‘08 Blake Madden Bob Williams Mr. Laurance D. Pless 1971 P ‘09 ‘13 Sheila Steelman (ex officio) A special thanks to the 1923 Memorial Mr. Oliver G. Prince, Jr. 1971 P ‘00 Archives for providing many of the archival photographs in this edition. Chairman Mr. James A. Rice II 1972

Asheville School Mission: To prepare Ms. Mary A. Robinson 2002 our students for college and for life Ex officio Alumni Association and to provide an atmosphere in Mr. Walter A. Ruch III P ‘08 which all members of a diverse, engaged, and purposefully small Mr. Michael H. Stoll 1968 school community appreciate and Dr. Frederick Wherry 1990 strive for excellence – an atmosphere that nurtures character and fosters Mr. Jonathan Winebrenner P ‘15, ‘16 the development of mind, body, Ex-officio Parents’ Association and spirit. Mrs. Rebecca Winebrenner P ‘15, ‘16 Ex-officio Parents’ Association Asheville School does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, sex, or ethnic background in its admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, educational policies, P - Parents of Alumni and athletic and other school administered programs. Spring 2014

In Memoriam Table of Contents 62 John L. Compton ‘45 and John L. Lantzius ‘49 62 Robert S. Webb, Jr. ‘49 Features 64 In Memoriam 06 CWRA Testing Shows Mastery of Problem Solving 08 O’Sullivan ’87 Works to Make Space Travel Efficient Profiles 11 Pope Foundation Renews Support for Humanities 16 Faculty Profile: Pam Reid 12 Pickering ’84 Connects Cultures Through LEAF 20 Student Profile: Zan McPherson 2014 24 New Global Studies Partnership to Benefit Students 16 Alumni Profile: Charla Hughes 2004 26 Troubled Times Amid Rugged Mountains 52 Alumni Profile: Dick Hayes 1951 Departments 56 Alumni Memory: Ray Magyar 1965 01 From the Associate Head of School Campus News 40 Alumni Events 55 School Wins Grand CASE Award For App 51 Board Welcomes Five New Trustees 56 Exceptional Activity Supports Dream of Pro Cycling 59 AS Students Win 11 Scholastic Art Awards Class Notes 59 Two Seniors Advance as National Merit Finalists 38 1936-1979 60 Civil Rights and Science Event 40 1982-1993 61 Comptuer Science Courses Advance Student Skills 42 1994-2005 44 2005-2011 46 2012-2013

Achievement • Spring 2014 3 Alumni Weekend 2014 April 25 - 27

• April 24 - Founders’ Day Convocation - 7:15 p.m. Henry Petroski, Professor of Civil Engineering at Duke University • April 25 - Beer/wine and hors d’oeuvres for all followed by class dinners - 6:00 p.m. Cocktails/dinner at the Fall House for Old Guard classes 1929 - 1964 - 6:30 p.m. • April 26 - Don’t miss your class pictures from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on the Mitchell porch. All-alumni dinner and dancing in Sharp Hall begins at 6:30.

1,000 Strong, Two Years in a Row

When asked how hard it was to repeat as NCAA champions, legendary UCLA coach John Wooden remarked that “plenty of teams have won one championship in a row….” As hard as it is to achieve something once, doing it again may be even harder. Last year 1,012 alumni supported Asheville School by making a gift to the Cody Annual Fund. Let’s not be a one-year wonder. Let’s prove it was no accident last year and have 1,000 or more alumni supporters again this year.

When you make a gift to the Cody Fund, you are making your school a better place. You are telling the current students and faculty that you value and respect what they are learning and achieving here. You do make a tangible difference in the life of our school.

- Tom Marberger ‘69, Director of Cody Annual Fund To give online, visit — ashevilleschool.org/makeagift.

500 Current Alumni Donors

4 Achievement • Spring 2014 Spring 2014 From the Associate Head of School

Dear Friends of Asheville School:

There is a great deal of excitement as we head into Spring Break with American Studies scholars preparing to dance the Charleston to Founders’ Day Convocation - 7:15 p.m. a live jazz band in downtown Asheville and travel to DC for the culminating American Studies experience sponsored by the Pope Foundation. Henry Petroski, Professor of Civil Engineering at Duke University Head of School Arch Montgomery and wife, Phyllis, have been traveling on a long-awaited leave to visit sites around the world. They have been in London and Africa, and will be heading to New Zealand before returning to campus mid-April. You may follow the Montgomerys’ adventures on Beer/wine and hors d’oeuvres for all followed by class dinners - 6:00 p.m. the following link: http://montgomerya.wordpress.com. Cocktails/dinner at the Fall House for Old Guard classes 1929 - 1964 - 6:30 p.m. Don’t miss your class pictures from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on the Mitchell porch. Looking back on the seasons just completed, our winter athletic teams enjoyed great success. The Boys’ Swim Team finished third in the States, All-alumni dinner and dancing in Sharp Hall begins at 6:30. their highest finish since 1998. The Girls’ Swim Team finished tenth. Seven school swim records were toppled in the process with Joey Kriegler 2015 finishing as the runner-up in the 500 Freestyle. Conor Fenn 2016 earned a second place finish in his weight division at the state wrestling tournament. Fall teams performed, by and large, better than in prior years, with boys’ and girls’ cross-country teams again winning conference championships, while the girls’ field hockey team earned a trip to state.

Our students’ results on the College Work Readiness Assessment (CWRA) continue to suggest that Asheville School’s curriculum and programs, as well as the close relationships between teachers and students, make a difference in student mastery of critical thinking, critical reading, critical problem-solving, and critical writing skills. Math Department Chair Mike Hill and Director of Academic Technology Varghese Alexander joined CWRA officials at the National Association of Independent Schools annual conference in February to showcase how we are using the results of the test to understand more fully what we are doing well and what we might be able to improve. What we do know: Asheville School students are demonstrably ready for the rigors of college—and our students in the class of 2014 continue to be accepted at top-tier colleges and universities, including Northwestern, Georgia Tech, Columbia, Wake Forest, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and University of Virginia.

Our math teachers are engaged in redesigning our math curriculum so that all students who arrive as Third Formers will have an opportunity to take either Calculus or AP Statistics by the Sixth Form year. Combined with the AP Language requirement for all Sixth Formers in American Studies, all Asheville School students are positioned to graduate with two AP credits—an indication of the academic rigor of our program and a distinctive distinguisher of our students as they apply to colleges.

We have embarked on a partnership with Students Shoulder to Shoulder, an organization that allows for service learning opportunities abroad and domestic, the fulfillment of part of our strategic planning in foreign languages: to create a sustainable International Program, in keeping with Asheville School’s mission, that incorporates elements of service, a homestay experience, and linguistic enrichment. Our initial student and faculty members will embark this summer.

As we head into summer, faculty members will be working with a CWRA team on campus to address issues connected to assessment and the development of the academic skills necessary for success in college—and in life. Work will continue to take place to renovate our athletic fields; we will resurface the field hockey field this summer.

Please enjoy this edition of Achievement. It reflects the energy and success that are the markers of life at Asheville School. Thank you for your interest and support. Sincerely,

Jack W. Bonner IV Achievement • Spring 2014 5 Associate Head of School Asheville School Students First to Take CWRA+ Test Results Reveal Students Mastering Critical Writing and Problem Solving

Dr. Mike Hill, chair of the Mathematics Department at Asheville School, says he’s encouraged after seeing how far Asheville School seniors have come academically since taking the CWRA+ as freshmen.

By Bob Williams (CAE), the New York-based creator of the Montgomery saw the CWRA+ as an op- Editor CWRA+. And while the multiple-choice portunity for teachers across disciplines to model of standardized testing has pre- look to one test to assess their effectiveness Asheville School is one of the first schools vailed in the U.S. for nearly a century, the in improving these 21st century skills in all in the country to adopt a test some edu- CWRA+ could one day be its replacement, students. cational leaders say could replace the SAT says Benjamin. – the College Work and Readiness Assess- “Problem-solving, critical thinking…If all ment (CWRA+). “These newer assessments are becoming of our departments could get behind that mainstream almost overnight,” Benjamin instead of trying to decide which topics In 2007, Asheville School joined seven says in a recent interview with C.M. Rubin, were most important, wouldn’t that be top private and public high schools author of The Global Search for Education. something,” Montgomery says. nationwide in using the CWRA+ to “Because of the ‘Knowledge Economy’ – measure such important skills as critical content is important, but when you can Even early on, Bonner says it was soon ap- thinking and problem solving. Google for facts, you’ve got to be able to parent the CWRA+ would be an effective think about what it is you’re going to be tool for measuring academic success in the “Asheville School was on the front end of Googling for. Multiple-choice tests have classroom. doing these assessments for our students, been the dominant type of test in this and now it’s gaining momentum,” says country since World War I, but that is “When Arch and I met with the people Dr. Mike Hill, Chair of Asheville School’s about to change.” who helped design the CWRA+, we Mathematics Department. thought, ‘this is a test to get excited about,’” When Benjamin first started asking schools Bonner says. “The CWRA+ gives us a real Today 120 high schools are taking the to begin administering the CWRA+ in measurement of the development of our CWRA, says Dr. Roger Benjamin, president 2006, Head of School Arch Montgomery students’ critical thinking and writing of the Council for Aid to Education and Associate Head of School Jay Bonner skills. It gives us a real portrait of each were eager to learn more. student’s development by the time he or 6 Achievement • Spring 2014 she graduates from Asheville School.” Not only does it accurately measure skills “We are now talking to college admissions to share and analyze, Hill says. In fact, impossible to capture through multiple officers and leaders of colleges who are he’s noticed that student test scores have choice testing, the CWRA+ also provides aligned with high schools that feed into dramatically improved from freshman year concrete evidence of how well Asheville them, and are also CWRA+ users, about to senior year. And the progress among School teaches these 21st century skills. accepting the CWRA+ results in addition Asheville School students remains near the The test shows how far these students have to SAT or ACT results,” Benjamin says. top when compared to other schools using come academically over four years, Bonner “There is much controversy in education the CWRA+. says. at present about standardized testing, with many believing all standardized testing “There is evidence of value added at Ashe- “When you compare us to other secondary should be eliminated during primary and ville School in terms of kids improving institutions on this list, Asheville School is secondary school, with just one test given their performance,” Hill says. “Overall, we at the top or near that top of that school at the end of secondary school.” compare very favorably to some very good cohort group,” Bonner says. “We’re making schools in terms of how the students are a big difference in the classroom.” “There is evidence of doing when they graduate. Bonner sees the curriculum, the interdis- value added at Asheville Over the four-year span, the test scores ciplinary Humanities program, and the from freshman year to senior year on strong community as factors in the success School in terms of kids average improved by 200 points, which of these academic achievements for the is significant on a test where the highest three graduating classes tested as freshmen improving their score is 1600. and seniors: 2011, 2012 and 2013. performance.” “We have kids who took the CWRA+ as “I believe our results are ahead of some of freshmen and had average test scores, and these other schools because we create such Hill is grateful that Asheville School was yet their scores during their senior year a strong relationship with the students. one of the first schools to implement the look really good with this measurement,” Our students are motivated to work to CWRA+. He says the school is already Hill says. please their teachers who invest in their ahead of the curve in terms of emphasiz- learning,” Bonner says. “We’re seeing the ing critical thinking in the classroom. And, adds Alexander, “Asheville School is benefits of students who want to work one of the few schools doing the statistical hard because they respect us and want to “It’s a fantastic instrument that really no research and moving ahead.” please us.” one else is using yet, and these guys are on the forefront. Asheville School, in a In fact, after Hill and Alexander joined Harvard University’s Dr. Tony Wagner says partnership with the CAE, really got out Chris Jackson, CWRA+ Program Director, “the CWRA+ is really in a class by itself” there on the forefront as well,” says Hill, in presenting the latest data at the NAIS and is part of what he refers to as “Ac- who spoke at the National Association of conference this year, officials at CWRA+ countability 2.0.” Independent School’s (NAIS) conference are planning to visit Asheville School in in February about the CWRA+ with his June to help other schools see the value of “We need to insist on a combination of lo- teaching colleague, Varghese Alexander. this research. cally developed assessments and nationally normed online tests, such as the CWRA+, “When you look at what this instrument is Knowing Asheville School seniors have that measure students’ analytic reasoning, trying to measure, it’s hard not to want to ranked near the top for three straight years critical thinking, problem solving, and do this,” Hill told a crowd of parents at a says a lot about the quality of the institu- writing skills,” writes Wagner in an article recent Parents’ Association meeting. “How tion, says Hill. from Education Leadership titled “Rigor many of you do not want your children to Redefined.” be able to think critically, analyze and solve “Generally speaking, our seniors are above problems, and be able to reason scientifi- the 75th percentile, which is impressive,” And today with more and more high cally and quantitatively?” Hill says. “Now we can point to these schools nationwide adopting the CWRA+, statistics and say with confidence – there is Benjamin is encouraging college admission With years of data collected from the something good going on here at Asheville officers to inquire about CWRA+ results. classes of 2011, 2012 and 2013, Asheville School.” School now has valuable information Achievement • Spring 2014 7 O’Sullivan ’87 Works to Help Make Future Space Travel More Efficient

By Bob Williams Editor

When Jim O’Sullivan witnessed the 2004 launch of SpaceShipOne — the first manned private space flight — he was an enthusiastic spectator. Today, the 44-year- old resident of Palo Alto, CA, has joined a 250-person crew working to build the world’s largest aircraft and the most efficient form of space travel.

“I think this project will make space travel a little more visible,” says O’Sullivan, a 1987 graduate of Asheville School. “This plane will be an attention-grabber when it does launch, and it comes with the benefit of reducing the cost of space access.”

Since April 2013, O’Sullivan has teamed up with the company that designed SpaceShipOne – Scaled Composites. He is working on an aircraft with a wingspan the size of a football field known as Stra- tolaunch Systems – a project funded by Jim O’Sullivan 1987 enjoys flying and computer electronics and says his experience Microsoft co-founder Paul G. Allen. The with both gave him the opportunity to work on the Paul Allen-funded project project combines aviation and space travel Stratolaunch Systems. into one aircraft that will launch a rocket into space during flight. O’Sullivan has designed chips for such With six 747 engines and a wingspan of Silicon Valley tech companies as Sun over 380 feet, the carrier aircraft will be the O’Sullivan commutes to the desert loca- Microsystems and Cisco, and he describes largest aircraft ever constructed. While the tion of Scaled Composites in Mojave, CA, his latest venture as a nice blend of his construction is underway, O’Sullivan says by his plane from his home in Palo Alto. previous work experience and his love he’s not at liberty to say just how far along He describes his work as both rewarding for aviation. the project is since he started last April. and challenging. The launch system will require a takeoff “It’s been nice putting together my experi- and landing runway that is approximately “One of the neat things about working at ence of aviation and computer electronics 12,500 feet long. It will be designed to this company is that you can do any task into one project,” he says. “It’s been a lot of fly over 1,000 nautical miles to reach an as long as you have the ability,” O’Sullivan fun and it’s a great deal of work.” optimal launch point, according to the says. “There’s a lot of freedom here and it company’s press kit. has similarities to a Silicon Valley start-up.” O’Sullivan expects to continue working on A computer electronics engineer by trade, this project well into 2016 when the first Once the carrier is in position, it will test flight is scheduled. launch the multi-stage booster while in 8 Achievement • Spring 2014 flight, and once the booster is released “This plane will be an attention-grabber when it does launch, and it comes with the benefit of reducing the cost of space access.” from the aircraft at approximately 30,000 feet, the first-stage engines will ignite and the spacecraft will begin its journey to space. At this point, O’Sullivan’s avionics system will help monitor the health and status of the spacecraft from the carrier aircraft and on the ground.

As one of three electrical engineers on the project, O’Sullivan is tasked with sorting out the avionics for the aircraft, which includes control, monitoring, communication, navigation, weather, and anti-collision systems.

He credits his experience as a pilot with helping him land a job with Scaled Com- posites after he sent the company a letter and resumé “on a whim.”

“It’s what got me the job,” he says. “Since I am a pilot and use those avionics weekly, it helps me understand how to put together the right system for this spacecraft. It helps me design a better system for them.”

While he has yet to meet Paul Allen, O’Sullivan says he has had a chance to meet Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, who is responsible for the funding and vision behind Virgin Galactic, the world’s first commercial spaceflight, O’Sullivan stands with his former Asheville School advisor and math teacher, Cyril which should launch later this year. Fefer, during a visit to Asheville in 2012. Achievement • Spring 2014 9 “It was fun to meet him,” he recalls. “The programming in a previous school, and he where I learned how to synthesize a fruit occasion was the first rocket-powered pushed us to go a lot deeper,” O’Sullivan flavor. It was a great exercise for us to learn flight of the spaceship. He was quite recalls. and explore.” pleased by the results and was meeting some of the engineers. It was just a hand- Cyril Fefer says it was apparent O’Sullivan Now that he’s helping pave the way for shake and a hi, but it was still great to meet had a gifted mind even when he was a future private space travel, O’Sullivan him.” student at Asheville School. says he’s open to the idea of traveling into space, although he’s not sure he’ll get the When asked what advice he would give “I’m glad Jim was here to influence me,” chance. to young Asheville School students and says Fefer, who was O’Sullivan’s advisor. graduates, O’Sullivan offered this: “Figure “He was always years ahead of what was “I’d love to go into space—sure,” he says, out what you are passionate about and happening in the classroom, and that was indicating that the ticket price will likely pursue that. We are our only limitation true even in college. He was adventure- keep him from having the opportunity. usually...Dream Big!” some. He would dive into the computer Regardless, O’Sullivan enjoys the contri- itself and take off the cover and change butions he’s making toward the future of O’Sullivan recalls having a love for this and that – things I would have been space travel. electronics even as a student at Asheville hesitant to do.” School. “I built my first computer at the “It’s a fascinating place to work,” chip level my freshman year at Asheville Another teacher O’Sullivan remembers O’Sullivan says. “One of the best parts is School,” he says. “I was passionate about looking up to was Doc Embler. “Doc getting to know the people. It’s a smart it back then when Cyril Fefer was running Embler was great,” he recalls. “I remember bunch of people.” the computer program. I had done some being interested in a chemistry project

10 Achievement • Spring 2014 School Grateful for Renewed Support from Pope Foundation

By Bob Williams Editor

Teachers and students at Asheville School will continue to benefit from the generous support of the John William Pope Foun- dation, which recently approved another $225,000 grant in support of Asheville School’s integrated Humanities curriculum and Cody Annual Fund.

“Asheville School is grateful for Art Pope’s leadership and generosity toward his alma mater,” said Head of School Arch Montgomery. “We have one of the leading Humanities programs in the nation due to the Pope Foundation’s continued support.”

The Pope family as well as the Founda- tion’s board of directors are personally committed to supporting Asheville School. Art Pope, President and Chairman of the Foundation, and David Stover, a member of the Board of Directors, are alumni of Asheville School. Pope graduated from Asheville School in 1974, Stover graduated in 1975, and Stover’s daughter, Elizabeth, in 2011.

“We’re honored to continue supporting Asheville School’s high standard of academic excellence,” said Stover. “The instruction is enhanced by the integrated team-taught curriculum of its excellent Western civilization program.”

Since 2006, the Pope Foundation has tion has seen fit to aid our efforts in the the advancement of individual freedom contributed $1 million in support of the establishment of the only team-taught, and personal responsibility. Since 1986, the school’s innovative approach to teaching sequential, and fully integrated core Foundation’s giving has totaled over $100 Humanities. Two school leaders, Associate Humanities program of its kind in the million, primarily to charities and organi- Head of School Jay Bonner and Humani- country,” Bonner said. “We’re thrilled the zations in North Carolina. ties Chairman John Gregory, helped envi- Foundation has expanded on that support sion the school’s nationally recognized over the years and has agreed to continue.” The Foundation is a private family founda- Humanities program, which was created tion supported by the late John William during the 2004-2005 school year. The John William Pope Foundation, Pope Sr. and his wife, Joyce W. Pope, and located in Raleigh, North Carolina, works their children: their late son, John William “We continue to be honored, as we were to improve the well-being of the citizens Pope Jr.; Amanda Pope; and Art Pope. from the beginning, that the Pope Founda- of North Carolina and the nation through Achievement • Spring 2014 11 Pickering’s LEAF Connects Cultures and Creates Community Through Music and The Arts

By Tish Anderson Staff Writer

“To pique curiosity, to bridge cultures, and to break down ‘isms,’” Jennifer Pickering ‘84 declares, as she explains the goal of her LEAF Community Arts organization. Founded in 1995 as a semi-annual arts event on the grounds of Camp Rockmont near Black Mountain, LEAF - Lake Eden Arts Festival - has grown into an international non-profit program that connects cultures and creates community through music and the arts, serving 42,000 youth in the Asheville area as well as in nine nations around the world since 2004.

Pickering’s passion for cultural diversifica- tion meshed with a series of accidents and coincidences when she held the first LEAF weekend 19 years ago. “I wanted LEAF to be a sampler of WNC traditions and arts and music presentations from across the globe, including our own backyard,” she recalls. “I started the festival out of my in- nocence and naiveté,” Pickering laughs. Jennifer Pickering 1984 is the founder of the LEAF Community Arts organization.

After focusing on mountain and world traditions via spring and fall gatherings for nearly a decade, LEAF expanded to fill initially the sole purpose of LEAF, but now, prepare them to perform on stage at LEAF. gaps in arts programs for local students in addition to creating support for LSS and The youth gain a valuable performance through LSS (LEAF Schools & Streets) in LI, the weekends are intended to introduce experience, advance their music skills, 2004. “We match local Teaching Artists of international cultures to families who may enhance their self-esteem, achieve greater music and other arts with public housing not usually attend festivals and help them cultural awareness, and develop a sense of communities, parks and recreation centers, explore the arts. our global community. local schools and collaborating partners such as Asheville’s Delta House Life Devel- LSS oversees both in-school and after- Dr. Milton Crotts, musical director of opment program.” Then LEAF Interna- school arts programs in public and private, the Blue Ridge Orchestra and other local tional (LI) began in 2006 in Bequia, after charter and home schools; in addition, music ensembles, has conducted the LSS Pickering learned that only one young the organization works in public housing orchestra at several LEAF weekends. He person on the island was learning to play communities, community centers, group says, “Jennifer is an inspiration and a joy the traditional steel pans. homes, and juvenile detention facilities. to be around. She has such a passion for While in western North Carolina, visiting the arts and the involvement of young Presenting three-day festivals of music, art, festival performers, along with the local people in the process. This is apparent and relaxation each May and October was LSS Teaching Artists team, work with local in her work with LEAF Schools & Streets 12 Achievement • Spring 2014 youth in their artistic medium and also program. Our community is enriched by Jennifer Pickering 1984 helped create LEAF International (LI) in 2006 in Bequia. her presence, dedication, and commitment tion, which was slowly dying. Collaborat- Shortly after introducing the Bequia pro- to young people and the arts.” ing with local musicians, she took the first gram, LI stretched across the Atlantic into steps to create LEAF International. Since Rwanda, where the organization gathered In March 2013, the LEAF Jazz Band at 2006, “Kids on Pans,” a project at Bequia 25 homeless orphans to provide hous- Delta House of Asheville, invited by Community High School, has been teaching, healing from the 1994 genocide and Preservation Hall Band, opened the Congo ing traditional steel pan drumming, with AIDS epidemic, and community-building Square New World Rhythms Festival in more than 70 students learning to play. through cultural arts. New Orleans. Saxophonist Kaliq Moore, currently a seventh grader at Asheville The Bequia project’s local teaching art- These words of a student leader of the Middle School, says, “The trip meant a lot ist notes, “The steel pan is our national Intore Cultural Troupe clarify the signifi- to me because New Orleans is the home to instrument, and now our kids appreci- cance of LI’s work in Rwanda: “Most of us jazz, and music is important to me.” ate it. Almost every function now on the grew up on the streets, and it was not our island has a pan drummer performing.” choice. We are sad for the others that are Pickering adds, “We hope to deepen our The Bequia Kids on Pans performed at still on the streets. We dream to have work, impact through local summer music LEAF’s 37th festival in October 2013. The and when we can sustain ourselves, we programs, a mentoring program, and im- 10 young musicians performed on an wish to take in other kids from the streets. proved training for teaching artists.” international stage, participated in cultural We want to reach other kids – not only exchanges with local LEAF Schools & from the streets, but youth in general. We While visiting Bequia in 2006, a seven- Streets students at Asheville High School, want to empower other kids the way that square-mile island of the Caribbean nation and had the experience of a lifetime on we were empowered. We will work hard to of St. Vincent, Pickering became interested their first trip to the US. help the youth of Rwanda.” in the region’s steel pan drumming tradi- Achievement • Spring 2014 13 Through weekly traditional drumming Classes include marimba, mandolin, will eventually serve as music teachers for and dance classes, training in valuable keyboard, recorder and guitar in addition younger children.” skill development, and an opportunity to to instruction in percussion skills. In 2012, continue cultural traditions, the young a group of young musicians from this Pickering is especially pleased to have part- people have developed pride and hope. program, ages 11 to 18, gave an inspiring nered with Kristen Cooper, founder of the “When you are living on the street, there is performance at the Fall LEAF festival. Wilmington Yoga Center, to support the no hope, there is no life, there is no future. creation of a music program at the Home The music has changed us. We now feel LEAF International’s instruction in East of Hope Orphanage in Kerala, India. proud and have hope. Through music and African dances, songs, and drum rhythms performance, we are example students at Ilboru Secondary School (for boys) in “In this partnership, LEAF International to the rest of our community and our Arusha, Tanzania, proved so popular that served as the inspiration and catalyst to country,” observed another member of the students at nearby St. Joseph Girls School begin two music programs at the home for troupe. requested an expansion of the program orphaned and abused girls, many of whom in their school. Students in the program were child prostitutes or beggars blinded As they worked in conjunction with meet two to three times a week after school by the mafia to accrue more sympathy Ivuka Arts Kigali, LI leaders point out, and perform concerts that highlight the and money. The female program includes “The LEAF Cultural Troupe [in Rwanda] various tribes and cultures in Tanzania instruction in traditional dancing and has risen from the streets to world-class while promoting the environmental mes- rehearsing for the marching band.” performers. Their dream is to teach other sages of LI partner, Jane Goodall’s Roots & The work of LEAF Streets & Schools and youth and street orphans and to share the Shoots. LEAF International continues to reach opportunities they have had.” into new communities and cultures, “often Pickering emphasizes, “LEAF plays the role taking us by surprise and always offering In the past seven years, LI ventures have of the catalyst. The programs result from exciting challenges and opportunities,” expanded into Guatemala, Mexico, Tan- collaboration - with other organizations according to Pickering. “Frequently our zania, Panama, India, and this past year and local teaching artists.” Since develop- dreams lead us into uncharted waters, yet with the Bribri and Ngabe First Nations in ing the LI Haiti program a year ago, she we invariably discover affirming partners Costa Rica. has particularly enjoyed working with Hai- with whom we can build broader experi- tian artists. “The Haitian attitude is always ences for youth to preserve a culture’s In Guatemala, LEAF International works positive, looking forward; the people have traditions, heighten self- and community with Child Aid and the CEDIN School to high standards of excellence. awareness, and create a brighter future offer 15 classes each week, immersing stu- through the arts. Ultimately, it is the dents in their own cultural traditions and “Twice a week, members of Boukman young people themselves who inspire empowering them to pursue their talents. Eksperyans, the leading Haitian tradi- and encourage us to strive toward greater Students are introduced to rhythm, music tional band of 30+ years, lead drum and goals.” theory, singing, musical instruments, and dance lessons to children in Project Haiti’s dance. LEAF International funds the music Youth Club, at no cost. These youth are teachers’ salaries and local instruments extraordinary and dedicated. The long- made by local artists. term vision for the program is that they

14 Achievement • Spring 2014 To learn more about LEAF, volunteer time, or donate to support arts education locally LEAF Announces The 38th Festival or globally, visit www.theLEAF.org. Picker- ing concludes, “Big thanks to an Asheville Lineup, A Celebration of Global Funk School graduate whom I had not seen since graduation who saw we were seeking From Staff Reports Purchase tickets online at theLEAF.org or support to bring the LEAF International by phone at 828-686-8742. All prices are Bequia kids to LEAF. HE made the trip LEAF is thrilled to announce the stellar discounted through March 31. Adult prices happen in FULL for one of the 11 kids; it lineup of performing artists for the Spring start at $41 for the day or $147 for the made a HUGE difference!” 2014 LEAF Festival, taking place May 8-11 weekend. Additional discounts apply for in Black Mountain, NC. “Free Your Funky local commuting residents and youth ages Self” at the 38th LEAF Festival and experi- 10 through 17. Children 9 and younger are About Jennifer ence multiple cultures with Grammy- always free. Limited car camping, lodge winning Funk-master Bootsy Collins & rooms and cabins are available. Funky Pickering 1984 the Funk Unity Band; American Chicano costumes and festive attitudes welcome! rockers Los Lobos celebrating their 40th Jennifer Pickering grew up on the grounds anniversary; and the experimental world Spring LEAF 2014 Performing of Camp Rockmont. In 1984, she gradu- fusion trio known as Beats Antique. Arts Lineup: ated from Asheville School having served on Mitchell Cabinet and with the Hoste Returning LEAF favorites include Afro- Bootsy Collins & the Funk Unity Band • Society. Jennifer also participated in pop and Reggae-influenced Sierra Leone’s Los Lobos (40th year anniversary) • Beats Mountaineering, played basketball and Refugee All Stars and a Brooklyn Bhangra Antique • Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars • varsity tennis and ran varsity cross-coun- dance party with Red Baraat. The 38th Red Baraat • Darrell Scott & Tim O’Brien try. In 1983, she was named Best Female LEAF features more Grammy-nominated Athlete. Her senior yearbook quotation performers such as the harmonious duo, Boukman Eksperyans • Zach Deputy • El- from La Rochefoucauld reads, “Happiness Darrell Scott & Tim O’Brien (Americana/ ephant Revival • Locos por Juana • The Lee comes not from exterior situations, but Roots), Boukman Eksperyans (Haitian Boys • Town Mountain • Roosevelt Collier from the peace within you. Joy is never in Rock/Reggae) and twice-nominated Locos Presents: Funk in the Round • Zing Experi- things, it is in us.” por Juana (Afro-Caribbean, Hip-Hop/ ence • Turkuaz • Billy Jonas Band Funk). The lineup rounds out with genre- Jennifer attended Vanderbilt University bending performances from soulful and Contra w/ Wild Asparagus & Perpetual and then graduated from Wake Forest funky multi-instrumentalist Zach Deputy, Emotion • Alash Tuvan Throat Singers University 1988. However, she often says transcendental folk-rockers Elephant Re- • Kim & Reggie Harris • The Whitetop she received a better education and life vival and many more. Mountaineers • Empire Strikes Brass • The structure from Asheville School than she Fritz • Adams, Queen & Rifkin • Molas- did in college. She credits the school for LEAF Festival musicians provide the ses Creek • Techno Contra w/ DJ Jor-D • the base of her organizational success. soundtrack to a memorable experience Unifire Theater • One Leg Up • Zulu Con- filled with cultural treasures and fun nection • Montuno • Infinite Geometry • From 1989 to 1992, Jennifer was direc- around every corner. Combining a great Darrell Rose • Whee Ahh Fairie Kin • Toy tor of Camp Hollymont on the Asheville diversity of names and faces with myriad Boat Circus Arts • Jake Hollifield Art V School campus. Later, pursuing a career in community dances including Salsa, Swing, Experience • The Screaming J’s • Kickin’ It photography and enjoying opportunities the Waltz and traditional, contemporary Crew Jelly Dome • LEAF Poetry Slam w/ for extensive travel, Jennifer began to con- and techno forms of Contra; poetry and James Nave • Rushfest Contra Experience • sider seriously the opportunity to under- puppetry slams; healing arts workshops; Alex Krug Combo • Contra Callers: Diane take creating an arts festival. The success folk art and handcraft exhibitions, instal- Silver, George Marshall, & Jesse Edgerton of the first LEAF weekend in October 1995 lations and interactive demonstrations; set the foundation for the organization camping, watersports and outdoor adven- that has grown steadily and has continued ture; and kids’ activities throughout the to offer increasing cultural enrichment for festival. nearly two decades. Achievement • Spring 2014 15 Editor’s Note: Pam delivered this talk to the faculty at the beginning of the 2013-14 school year. Tales from the Crypt: A Back-to-School Memoir By Pam Reid About this time of year 45 years ago, I be- My 6th grade teacher had taught many Mathematics Teacher came a teacher. I had not exactly planned family members, including my older to teach school, though I have looked back brother. She was packed with energy, and As far as back-to-school books go, I en- at that moment in time over and over to she led the morning assembly every day at joyed reading Daniel Pink’s book Drive, realize that, truthfully, I had no plan for the local public elementary school. Back 2013 required summer reading for the my life. I CAN tell you that I am more in the day, we had a morning prayer and faculty. Actually, confession is good for than sure that my mother was even prayer- an Old Testament scripture reading, and the soul: I had a copy of the audio book. ful that I would “marry rich,” as most we sang a patriotic song. As I spent my Nonetheless, I enjoyed the book, though respectable young southern ladies would early years growing up in Florida, we also I am certain that he could have presented hope to do. Not so much. sang, “I want to wake up in the morning, the material in about 30 pages. I like the where the orange blossoms grow.” She was word drive, as I am often driven relent- After college, I had spent the summer of tough. She required compliance. lessly by my passions. 1968 at my grandmother’s apple farm, tending her gardens and serving as her What makes that inescapable pressure, that general gopher. I had wandered through continuous driving force, possible? I may four years of college, attacking various not completely know. But I do know that disciplines, mostly music, and during the most of us require motivation of some summer I did some percussion work with sort, some kind of tangible or intangible a small combo. As summer wound to a quality to catalyze us – over and over close, I still had no life plan. again. And then suddenly, serendipitously, as During Orientation each year, we plan and often happens, my life changed forever. execute activities and opportunities that Arts departments in public schools were inspire our young precious ones to want to just getting started, and during September, be True Blues. On the first day of classes, a friend who was a music teacher called to we give motivational introductions to our say that one of the teachers in the area, a students in order to snare and to energize newly-donned PhD, was leaving quickly to our new charges. But beyond the notions assume a position at a university. So why of drive and motivation in Pink’s book, I didn’t I substitute until they could inter- like having the opportunity to re-explore view and hire another music teacher? autonomy, mastery (one of my faves!), and purpose. And I appreciate discussing and Not having much on my agenda, I agreed comparing compliance vs. engagement. to the adventure, which would become a much more magical experience than I From the video that Arch shared yesterday, could have imagined at that time. The I like thinking about the notion of grit, be- truth is that they did not interview anyone cause we must have something beyond the for the job, and I did teach music in the electricity of the opening moments of our public schools, only to realize that, while lives to sustain us. And though these are I loved to teach (I was smitten), I would certainly not new ideas with regard to edu- need to switch disciplines. Of course, this cation, they have always been and remain decision led to more education for me, and vital for our lives – and worthy of re-visits the rest is, as they say, now history. as we again consider how these concepts apply to our teaching and to our living. I should have always known that I would become a teacher. After all, so many adults 16 Achievement • Spring 2014 in my life who had meant the most to me had been my teachers. This valued influence on my life played I went to boarding school kicking and For the first three weeks of my life at golf with my grandmother on Saturday screaming. After all, I had been a good boarding school, I was absolutely miser- mornings, and I often caddied for my citizen, president of my junior high school able. Except for math and science, my grandmother. One Saturday morning, on student body, a student athlete, and a grades were regrettable. Though I cried the fifth fairway of the course, primitive by chorus and band member. Forced to take only in private, mainly in the shower, I was today’s standards, we ran into a rattle- piano lessons, I had learned to play the as lost as a teenager could be lost, and I snake. My teacher and my grandmother darn thing. I actually enjoyed playing was lonely. I missed home, especially my took golf clubs out of their bags and beat the piano. I went to Sunday school and grandmother and my little brother. Most that snake literally to death. This purveyor church. Why was I being punished? of the girls had attended private schools of tough love was engaging as a teacher; Literally none of my friends were being and were much more savvy than I was she was engaging as a person, and, as her “sent away.” I had hardly been out of about life and about school. student, I was engaged in learning what Florida and North Carolina my whole life she was teaching. – definitely not without family.

Achievement • Spring 2014 17 Every day we went to chapel at 11:00 connections with the literature and poetry I simply could not touch the little beast, and then had mid-morning snack in the that we studied. After all, I had previously though I did observe the process, so that courtyard. The snacks were substantial, read so little of the good stuff. She was I could make the proper and necessary as we did not eat dinner until after classes relentless, and she engaged me. identifications for the quiz. Another pre- at 2:00. We had a cornucopia of fruit cious influence on my life, this teacher was selections, homemade peanut butter and My European History teacher was artful in a great observer of life, as she was high on cheese crackers, and juices. The faculty her teaching. She remains the most excit- life herself, and she knew more about me would congregate in a cluster, as would ing history teacher I have ever observed, than I did. students. I was very much a loner early on and all with no technology. As I now and would literally hide. In the center of have the joy of traveling to the countries I connected with my senior English campus, we had a great outdoor stage for I learned about from her, I can hear her teacher and drama coach, a British wan- dramatic productions, complete with giant voice literally weaving together the tales of nabe from Virginia. Every year the drama boulders that gave it a cave-like appear- the kings and queens. She knew her stuff; department performed a Shakespear- ance. Lush greenery surrounded the stage, she was passionate, and she was the best at ean comedy. Some of us had formed a which was obscured from the back by teaching how to make great connections as baroque recorder ensemble, complete more evergreens and giant bamboo. we hopped the globe. This devoted teacher with guitar, and volunteered to perform told stories from the lives of the great musical interludes during The Merchant One day, while I was lurking around out rulers and thinkers. She owned European of Venice. She was wild about the idea. of sight in the evergreens, bewailing my History, teaching from her inside out, Her affirmation was amazing. I earned outcast state and avoiding any chance projecting her soul. my first A on an English paper in her of finding a friend, I overheard a faculty class, and I kept the paper until I moved conversation that would be transforma- When I went away to school, I had had off campus from the Bement House nine tive. My history teacher was telling my little experience with studying or taking years ago. other teachers that I appeared so totally comprehensive tests and exams. I studied sad and pitiful, and she was worried. The for her first big history test. I honestly did. My headmistress and I spent quality time headmistress reported that my recent stan- The school forced us to turn out our lights together, both casually and not so casually. dardized testing indicated that I should be at 9:30 every night, but I had a blow-up I drove her to distraction too many times. doing excellent work. My English teacher raft that I used in a bathtub. I had burned Our school was set on an urban campus. remarked that I could not write even a the midnight oil preparing for the test. A brick wall topped by wrought iron paragraph. The assessment consisted of several id’s, bounded the perimeter of the property. and I thought that I had done respectably We had no snack machines, no food to It was as if that group of teachers at that well on them. The one essay question was eat, other than during seated meals and moment hatched a plan for saving me, from hell. I had no idea how to answer at mid-morning. We were hungry, and and I overheard the whole thing. I had it. So I wrote her a note, which stated that there was no such thing as going across no idea that they had observed so much. I deeply regretted to report that I simply the street. Cleverly, my classmate and I I was placed in an early morning English could not answer the question posed. devised a plan which had been working tutorial, where I learned the joys of the Instead, I offered my own question, which for quite a while. The gates to the school topic sentence and a thematic statement – I answered thoroughly. After she graded were secured every day after sports. In the that would be justified. I had never before the papers, she called me in for a little chat, back corner of the property, however, we thought it possible to revise the same telling me that she was charmed by my had created an escape route to get over the paragraph so many times. approach to the essay question, but that we fence and across the street to a small but should keep the event to ourselves. I made adequate grocery. We were AWOL, and we During the many, many hours that we a B. This future mentor was engaging, and would stock up on snacks and drinks for worked together, this patient and gifted I was never again unprepared for a test or our hall mates and return to campus by a teacher became part of my life. She told exam. similar route. me about her husband, a college professor, and her grown children. She was tough I adored my biology teacher. She was Sadly for us, some tacky narc had ratted us lessons and love personified. We laughed funny and smart as a whip. She knew that out, and one day, while we were shopping, a lot, often about my inability to make I had not dissected my fetal pig but had the headmistress walked into the store, persuaded my best friend and lab partner knowing that we were there. Of course, I 18 Achievement • Spring 2014 (I had some friends by that time) to do it. said to my classmate, “Hide.” As a blonde, she fit very well into the broom display. I I do not have the words to describe to you the way we live our own lives and tell our hid in the cereal boxes. Our clever head of adequately the blessings that I received in own stories is really the best of what we school saw the whole thing and grabbed boarding school. If you Google “reasons can give to our students. us in short order. During the disciplinary to attend boarding school,” you will find moment in her office, she said that she was a great list: you’ll be in small classes, you As we begin another year, which I think at the end of her rope with me and asked will not experience significant discipline is my final year, I am yet again blessed. I me what she should do. When I suggested problems, you will go to school with thank you for being my colleagues and for that she should simply tie a knot and hang people who want to learn, you’ll be with encouraging me to continue to do what I on, I observed a slight grin almost creep like-minded students who want to go to love to do – to teach and to garden. God on to her face. Of course, I told her that college, you will learn to study and become bless you with the energy, the joy, and the I was just kidding. She gave me six weeks responsible for yourself. grit that will be required for another great of campus restriction. Over the years, as I year, and God bless this wonderful school. would reflect on my time with her, I would But we all know that the best part of at- come to realize that one of her strongest tending an outstanding boarding school Epilogue - February 2014 gifts as an educator was her ability to find involves community – a word that we the best part of students and dwell on preach around here. My most memo- I have always believed that one morning those traits. rable teachers, the ones who shaped me, I would wake up and know that the time were the ones who loved to teach, who had arrived for me to leave the classroom. During my incarceration, I spent quality knew their disciplines, who held me to the Last week, my inner voice spoke to me time with the Dean of Residential Stu- highest standards possible, who were full clearly, and so this year really will be my dents, who did duty in a beautifully ap- of good humor, and who shared their life last year teaching at Asheville School. I pointed drawing room. This room housed stories with me, so that I now have stories have loved teaching more than I can say, a concert grand piano, of which I took to share. looking forward to every single day. I have total advantage. I knew that the dean, a been blessed with grace and joy far beyond staunch Episcopalian, loved to sing hymns. My students seem to appreciate these what I deserve, working with treasured So, on the third Saturday afternoon of my stories. This past year, half-way through a students in the best schools, for and with restriction, I sat with her for the afternoon, 90-minute class, I told my kids to run and talented, gifted, and dedicated colleagues, playing hymns. We sang two-part harmo- get a drink of water, make any necessary many of whom are my best friends. I am ny, and I believe that she may have entered stop, and be back in five quick New York so very grateful to Asheville School for the raptures momentarily. Late in the minutes, as we had a sheet of rational the generous and abiding support that I afternoon, I told her that three weeks was equations to tackle. As they left the room, have received over the past 25 years. In such a long time not to leave the campus, two students said, “Ms. Reid, the only way the future, I hope to see you in the School and I wondered if I could go out just for we’ll get through that worksheet will be if gardens. a couple hours with my best day student we have a story.” friend. As I departed the front gates, I felt After teaching in and directing the Asheville mildly guilty that I had used the hymns of R. F. Delderfield, in his book To Serve School summer program for six years, Pam the church for personal gain. Them all My Days, writes the amazing sto- Reid joined the Asheville School faculty full- ry of his hero, David Powlett-Jones, who, time in 1989 as Director of the Summer Pro- All of these educators possessed common as is revealed on the book jacket, survives gram, Assistant Dean of Students, hall par- qualities: they were loaded with intel- the dreary carnage of WWI to ent, and teacher of Algebra I and geometry. lect and scholarship, and they absolutely become a teacher at a remote English During her 25-year tenure, she has also held owned their disciplines. In recent years, I school. Delderfield describes the matu- positions as Dean of Students and Director have wondered what they could have done ration of a shell-shocked veteran into a of Studies. In addition, Pam is known for with technology as part of the mix. Their masterful teacher and, in later years, a the beautiful and extensive gardens which emotional skill sets were solid, and their headmaster. If you have not read this she and her service project gardeners have strong spirits were evident every day. They novel, you really should. Delderfield’s created and diligently maintain. created a delicate balance of carrot and attention to detail and truth, his ability stick, of required compliance and dazzling to write about the moral complexities of engagement, and I am more than confi- life, and his ability as a storyteller to make dent that their joy for living and their solid this teacher become part of ourselves is and enduring sense of integrity gave them remarkable and lends further evidence that Achievement • Spring 2014 19 pure grit for the long haul. ‘Open-Mindedness and Empathy’ Keys to a Happy Life

By Zan McPherson 2014 depression, illness, serious financial prob- because my parents wouldn’t drive me to lems — all of these things are relatively my friends’ houses. When I was at my old Like every other senior in my class, I am foreign to me, and there is no one tragic public high school, I thought my life was expected to teach you something dur- event in my life that I would tell you all hard because I had to write a 6-page paper ing my chapel talk. But, to be honest, I right now. But some of you have had to for English. Six pages! Ridiculous… don’t think my status as a senior should deal with tragedies. As William Styron And now I’m here! I perceive this school as give me the right to tell anyone what to writes in Darkness Visible, pain is inde- hard, and I’m sure you do too, but, consid- do. The seniors are technically the oldest, scribable. Incomprehension of others’ pain ering the pattern, the rest of our lives will but, according to Mr. Bonner, I won’t fully is “due not to a failure of sympathy but the probably get harder. emotionally mature until I am 24. So we basic inability of healthy people to imagine are pretty much in the same place. it.” It is a daunting task to recognize fully I came to Asheville School as a new junior. You have gone through something that I and understand what other people are Before my very first flight to Asheville haven’t. You have experienced something going through. two years ago, I went on a long night walk that neither I, nor anyone else, can fully with my dad. Witty philosopher that he is, understand. Everyone at Asheville School I admit that I have always thought my he gave me three pieces of advice for my has a lesson to teach the school. life was “hard.” When I was a little girl, I boarding school journey ahead. He said: thought my life was hard because I had don’t make friends too quickly, don’t con- I think that maturity comes from with- two annoying brothers instead of a sister stantly talk about where you are from, and standing hardship, not your age. Death, to play dress-up with. When I was in don’t act entitled about who you are. He 20 Achievement • Spring 2014 middle school, I thought my life was hard told me that students wouldn’t really care about my life outside of Asheville School. To an extent, he was right. I began to no- During my sophomore year, my friend Lily formed deep relationships with the people tice that when I brought up my old life or changed her name to Cayden. She cut her around me, because I was so focused on my old friends, people weren’t interested. hair, started dressing like a guy, and began myself. It permanently distanced me from Mom and Dad, you have always led me testosterone treatment. When I came back my twin brother, who was once my most down the right path. You seem to know ex- for the first time on Fall Break of last year, trusted and loved playmate, my best friend. actly how to handle every tough situation. his facial hair had grown out and his voice But, now, I know the importance of striv- You really are my lifelong role models. But was deep. I remember that when I gave ing to understand and empathize with the right now I need to go against that advice him a hug it felt different because he was people around me. you gave me. Right now, I need to tell you so muscular. He was a guy! None of my all a little bit about myself. friends act differently toward him; he is In order to be both happy and fully im- still the same person. I can’t gauge how mersed in your community, you must Zan is short for Alexandra. I am from the people at this school would react to some- focus on your friends, family, and teachers rainy, Starbucks-ridden Seattle, Washing- thing like that; you tell me. more than yourself. Take advantage of the ton. If I hear another “oh, cool, that’s like diversity at this school; don’t be stuck in the same as Portland” from someone, I So, to say the least, the difference between the quicksand of egoism and judgment. might actually go insane. this school and my old school is pretty We throw around the word “diverse” a lot. dramatic. I believe that diversity is not simply ethnic- My birthplace is the home of Macklemore, ity or where you are from: it is your values Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and the Seahawks, When I decided to apply here, I had come and the way you think. who just won their very first Super Bowl. home from school one day crying and In fact, there was a parade for the told my family, “My life is dead. It’s dead.” Some grew up in a big city. Some grew Seahawks yesterday; all of the public I wasn’t involved in anything, my friends up with absolutely no religious influence. schools in Seattle had a day off. It’s been were shallow, and I felt like, despite my Some grew up with gay and transgender crazy over there, though I still have no idea height, a tiny fish in a sea of kids who friends. Some grew up without ever calling what a “Seahawk” is. weren’t smart and didn’t care about any- anyone “sir” or “ma’am.” Growing up like thing. this, I acquired the perception that any Since I’ve been at this school, I’ve noticed other kind of life was abnormal. Once I varying reactions to the way I say “both,” But, you! You all are so the opposite. You came here, I hit a wall of realization: that I and, like the Bahamians, that does not have so much more trust and sympathy wasn’t as open-minded or “accepting” as I mean I’m Canadian, although I do live an toward one another than normal high thought. I had to move across the country hour away… But, in all seriousness, there schoolers do. You are bonded like no other in order to understand a wider scope of is more to my life than my obsession with group of people I have ever been a part lifestyles and beliefs, but I don’t think you good coffee and my almost Canadian-ness. of. I can’t even describe how grateful I am have to. You can start right now, with the Until I came to this school, I didn’t think for this school. I don’t know where I’d person next to you. Put yourself in his or my opinions were different from anyone be if I had stayed at home. Also, I don’t her shoes. else’s. I grew up surrounded by liberal know how I would have survived without thinking. I formed a very stereotypical ever seeing Ms. Caldwell’s smile, or Mr. In the words of Tom Hanks, “We can view of Republicans. I honestly thought Lambert’s “I’m gonna kill you” face, or Mr. choose either to approach our fellow hu- that Republicans were either old ex- Smith’s gloriously red pants. man beings with suspicion or to approach football players or trashy blonde girls with them with an open mind, a dash of opti- barely understandable southern accents. As I said before, I don’t think I deserve to mism, and a great deal of candor.” I realized after being here for about a day be up here shoving life lessons at you. But that that was an absolutely ridiculous as- since I have the opportunity, I might as Zan McPherson 2014 is a senior from sumption. I also grew up with basically no well tell you what I believe. Seattle, WA. This talk was delivered as a religious background and in a place where senior talk in Boyd Chapel on February 6, that is the norm. My twin brother declared I believe that open-mindedness and 2014. that he was an atheist at age 12 and no one empathy are the keys to happiness. Before thought twice about it. Lastly, and most I came to this school, I wasn’t really aware importantly, I grew up around a large and of what other people thought or how they generally accepted gay, bi, and transgender felt. My life was full of sarcasm, fear of community. dislike, and shallow friendships. I never Achievement • Spring 2014 21 10,000 Miles to Mongolia By Charla Hughes 2004 4) Have as much fun as possible, and if the highways. Sometimes a convoy was nothing goes wrong, then everything has just two cars, but in our biggest convoy, Like most people connected to Asheville gone wrong. we were leading a total of six cars as we School, I’ve always thought of myself as crossed into Kazakhstan. Whenever we someone who relished taking the road Once we signed up, preparation was pretty met a Rally team along the way, we could less traveled. After finishing my Masters easy: we scrambled for sponsorships, ap- join up for a couple of days of driving, and of Arts in English, I took that concept plied for visas, and fumbled through the then the teams could split up to head in quite literally. During the summer of process of purchasing and registering a their different directions. Though some 2013, I set out on a journey where “road” British car while we were in the US. We other small cars were packed with five was a loose concept, and some days, there had a rough idea of our route but were people, we had plenty of room with just were no roads to speak of at all. With my prepared to be flexible when interesting the two of us – though nowhere near as boyfriend, Chase, I crossed over 10,000 distractions presented themselves along much room as we had in an American miles of some of the world’s most remote the drive. SUV when we had spent 22 days driving and most unforgiving terrain to finish the from Alaska to Florida the summer before, Mongol Rally. In mid-July, approximately 200 vehicles our test run for the Rally. converged in a tiny village in southeast Organized by a British group named The England to begin the adventure in the Our first night camping in Kazakhstan was Adventurists, the Mongol Rally is a charity shadow of Bodiam Castle, the starting line everything we had hoped to experience driving rally that covers over one-third of the Mongol Rally. We had a few initial on the Rally; it was the result of a dead of the world from England to Mongolia. doubts as we crossed the line, especially end and impassable roads, but we were After reading the legal disclaimer that we since we stalled three times on our way up with great friends, had good food, and were on our own and the Adventurists the ramp, but those doubts quickly went were enjoying some of the most beautiful couldn’t get us out of trouble along the away and were replaced by tremendous desert scenery we could have hoped for. way, we had excitedly signed up about six excitement as we headed to the ferry and Who knew a dried-up lakebed could be so months before our presence was requested out of England. (To be fair, Chase hadn’t wonderful? The epic camping continued at the starting line. The rules were few and driven a manual transmission until we throughout Kazakhstan. All we had to do simple: picked up our 2004 Fiat Panda a couple of was pull off the road a bit, set up for din- days earlier, but luckily he learned quickly.) ner, and enjoy the sunset. One morning, 1) The vehicle must be newer than 10 years The first couple of weeks seemed to blow we were especially lucky and woke up to old with an engine smaller than 1.2-liters. right by, as we rocketed through France, find our camp surrounded by a group of Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, the curious camels. Then, from the dried- 2) Each team must raise at least £1000 for Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, and into up lake in Kazakhstan, we made our way charity. We chose the Lotus Children’s Hungary as fast as our little steed could to a real lake, Lake Issyk-Kul, high in the Centre, an orphanage and children’s center move. The environment began to change mountains of Kyrgyzstan (yes, the water in Ulaanbaatar, and we were delighted to drastically when we entered Romania and was cold). Just off the shores of the lake, learn that our funds purchased new boots as we passed through Moldova, Ukraine, we happened upon the eco-tourism, back- for the kids this winter. We also raised and north into Russia to Moscow. Head- packer-friendly town of Karakol, which money for Cool Earth, the Adventurists’ ing south and east from the largest Russian seemed a combination of our favorite official charity, which works to preserve city, our adventure really kicked into high places and enchanted us with the land- the Amazon Rainforest. gear on the third week of the Rally when scape of Alaskan mountain towns and the we entered Asia and crossed the border sense of adventure and culture of Chiang 3) There is a starting line in England and from Mother Russia into Kazakhstan. Mai, Thailand. We spent a few days relax- a finish line in Mongolia, but there are no We had started the Rally without knowing ing in Karakol—soaking in the mountain set routes or dates, so you can completely any other teams, but as the Rally pro- air, catching up with friends, and drinking customize your own adventure. gressed, “convoys” of teams formed along good coffee—and then hit the road back

22 Achievement • Spring 2014 through Kazakhstan and Siberia to reach with every kilometer and excited smiles we passed under the finish line arch, we our final border crossing. were passing from car to car in our convoy; jumped out of the car, added our names to anxiety about our upcoming move to the Adventurists’ “Completed Teams” list We had heard rumors, nay horror stories, either Bangkok or Yogyakarta was mix- and caught up with other finishers we had about Mongolian roads, and so we won- ing with the joy of thinking about the not seen for thousands of miles. The next dered when our luck with the Russian ones first shower in nine days; and suddenly tasks on our agenda were a shower, clean would run out. Before we even reached all other emotions were overshadowed by clothes, and a meal that wasn’t cooked on a the Mongolian border station, we ran off impatience as we descended into the city camp stove. the road and onto the dirt path that would with (surprisingly) the worst traffic in take us most of the way to the capital the world. We needed two more hours to As we’d expected, this trip was more about city. Mongolia is a sparsely populated and drive the last five miles until we saw the the journey than the destination—more starkly beautiful country; our journey took red arch of our finish line, and pure joy about the people we met along the way us over mountains, past yurts, through overflowed from our cars as we officially and the adventures (and misadventures) rivers, and to a few places not even on our completed our 10,300-mile drive. After that brought us all together. maps (in fact, sometimes locals laughed at our map when we asked where we were on it). There were a couple of freezing nights at 2,500 meters elevation and some toasty days in the Gobi Desert. Whatever the climate, we had our trusty Fiat Panda and a group of great friends who made our nightly campsites the place to be.

After 40 days on the road, we finally crested our last hill and glimpsed Ulaan- baatar for the first time. The emotions were overwhelming: extreme happiness at completing the epic adventure mixed with the sadness of knowing that we had to say goodbye to the open road; fear of a last-minute break-down was dissipating Achievement • Spring 2014 23 New International Studies Partnership Encourages Global Citizenship

By Bob Williams Editor

Almost 20 years after Seth Buddy traveled abroad to a Third World country, his experience remains a life-changing moment.

“For me, my first Third World experience was driving through 30 miles of shanty- towns and slums in Jakarta, Indonesia,” recalls Buddy, Chair of the Foreign Language Department at Asheville School. “It’s like witnessing an apocalypse. I can still smell it, and I have never been the same after that experience.”

So when Buddy heard about the possibil- ity of Asheville School partnering with an international school offering student trips to such Third World nations as Bolivia, Kenya, and Tibet, he says he and his colleagues were intrigued.

“It’s been a goal of ours to expand the Seth Buddy, Chair of the Foreign Language Department, is excited about the new mission of our service program to in- changes ahead for Asheville School’s International Studies program. clude international considerations, and this seems like a logical extension of our the region. The program is really results program through an endowment and even community service program,” Buddy says. driven. They have leaders who are already offer endowed scholarships for students “This was essentially an opportunity we established and working in the region, and faculty members in future years. needed to seize.” so there’s a local person there who really knows what the needs are.” “I think it would be great if for every des- Referred to as Students Shoulder to tination we have nine students who would Shoulder(SStS), this international school’s Currently, the school secures this part- have this experience paid for by an endow- mission is to inspire high school students nership with a $7,500 subscription fee, ment fund,” Buddy says. “We need to have to engage in responsible global citizenship which allows the program to hold a spot our kids thinking internationally. You through online study, full immersion ser- for an Asheville School student in each of study a language for many reasons. For our vice programs, and public presentation. the nine programs. SStS offers programs kids who have already gone to Peru, it was in seven countries (Bolivia, Cambodia, a life-changing experience.” “We like this program because it has an Kenya, Nepal, Nicaragua, Peru, Tibet) educational piece to it,” Buddy explains. and two locations within the continental Robert Bandoni, Executive Director of “Students will receive six hours of class United States (New Orleans, and the La- SStS, says Asheville School is one of eight before they leave, to inform them about kota Native American Reservation in Pine global schools committed to the program’s Ridge, South Dakota). Buddy hopes to philosophy of helping inspire tomorrow’s see Asheville School soon fund the entire global leaders. 24 Achievement • Spring 2014 “For the next generation of secondary with the group to do community ser- he is encouraging his colleagues from school students to be effective global citi- vice will make me mature a lot. We often other departments to participate in these zens, they need direct experience engaging forget about the world outside of Asheville trips as well. their intellects, curiosity, and senses of School because of our little bubble here. obligation by working with organizations This is an amazing opportunity to get an “After you visit a Third World region, that are in the field, addressing funda- impression of the outside world. I hope to your whole frame of reference changes. mental issues related to endemic poverty,” learn more about their culture, since it is Automatically, you are more empathetic Bandoni says. “Our purpose remains to fascinating. I want to have the experience and have a more widened perspective on compel students from around the world of being integrated in a place very different your own life,” Buddy says. “We really need toward a clear, hope-inspired vision of from what I am used to.” more of our students to have this kind of how to confront what we call the paralysis international perspective, and our partner- of enormity – the futile feeling of looking Not long after Asheville School consid- ship with Shoulder to Shoulder will help at a global challenge that seems too big ered joining SStS, Buddy learned that his make this happen.” and too entrenched to even approach.” former colleague and Asheville School alumnus, Trey Wilson 1995, has a connec- Freitas says she’s grateful the school has Even though the partnership is less than a tion to the international program. Wilson entered into this new partnership. year old, Buddy says many students have enrolled Laurel School, the all-girls sec- already expressed interest and he expects ondary school where he works in Shaker “The program Shoulder to Shoulder is to see more students participate next year. Heights, Ohio, in the Shoulder to Shoulder offering an opportunity to step out of your program. comfort zone and put the priorities of oth- Maria Freitas, a sophomore from Brazil, is ers in front of your own, as it is a commu- one of the first Asheville School students “Trey Wilson and I both came to this pro- nity service program,” she says. “By helping who will participate in the SStS program gram through two separate avenues, but others, you help yourself. The program this summer when she travels to the Ti- it’s definitely a great coincidence,” Buddy gives you the chance to care about another betan Plateaus of China. says. culture, to interact with people and to share ideas. It gives you the opportunity “I hope to gain more independence, even Buddy is hopeful the new program will to keep your mind open to new ideas, as it though being in a boarding school gives be a nice addition to the local community shows you life from another perspective.” me that,” Freitas says. “Traveling to Tibet service program at Asheville School, and Achievement • Spring 2014 25

Troubled Times Amid Rugged Mountains

By Tom Marberger 1969 ments and assess the relative importance we knew we had taken a blow to the solar of events. Those living at the time lack plexus. We knew we had lost something A mug of coffee in one hand and a the perspective to see events in a broader important, but we hoped that, somehow, cigarette in the other, the somber General context. Nevertheless, most Americans things would turn out for the best. muttered, “As you were” when he entered knew instinctively that the assassination of the room. He placed his coffee on his desk, President Kennedy was a seminal moment. One part of the world where things would took a drag on the cigarette, picked up a Kennedy was a youthful symbol of all that not turn out very well was Southeast Asia. piece of chalk, and wrote on the black- was good and optimistic about America It is one of the great tragedies of our his- board that President Kennedy had been in the early 1960s. He was handsome and tory that America helped the Vietnamese shot. That is Dan Sternberg’s ’65 recollec- athletic, and with an attractive wife and fight against the Japanese and earn their tion of how students in General Weber’s children, he seemed real. He brought the freedom during World War II, only to turn math class learned about the assassina- best and the brightest to work in Wash- around and permit the French to re-pos- tion of JFK on November 22, 1963. Dan ington, and he gave us visions of Camelot. sess its Southeast Asian colonies after the remembers that his class was taking a test More than 50 years later, we continue to war. Although President Eisenhower did at the time, and when they finished, they remember his inaugural address and its not send combat troops to Vietnam to aid went to the common room to watch TV call to action, “Ask not what your country the French, Vietnam was becoming a prob- coverage of the shooting (Dan Sternberg can do for you, but ask what you can do lem spot for the United States as Kennedy letter to Tom Marberger). Ray Magyar re- for your country.” He inspired a nation assumed office. In the first two years of members things a little bit differently. He, with his challenge to put a man on the Kennedy’s presidency, Americans focused too, was in General Weber’s classroom, but moon by the end of the ‘60s, telling us that their foreign policy attention on Berlin and he recalls that the General’s son, John ’65, we would do that, “not because it is easy, Cuba. In 1963, however, the self-immola- “suddenly opened the door and shouted but because it is hard.” When he was killed, tion of monks and the over throw of the that President Kennedy had been shot.” Like Dan, though, Ray remembers that not much was accomplished the rest of the day, including his next class where the teacher, Mrs. Finney, “cried all through the class” (Ray Magyar letter to Tom Marberger).

With the benefit of hindsight, historians ascribe both starting and stopping points Lawrence Hall before the Clarke House renovation. to eras and move-

26 Achievement • Spring 2014 Diem regime in South Vietnam brought Although calendars, daily routine, courses Clarke ’66 was named the winner of The that country much more directly into the of study, and similar athletic schedules Ashnoca’s best room contest, and plans American conversation. can make all school years seem very much for the renovation of Lawrence Hall were alike, each year is unique because that announced. The editorial commented, On August 28, 1963, while students all particular group of people will be together “The students now resident in Lawrence across the country were enjoying their last for one year only. Teams, classes, and Hall were very pleased to hear that the days of summer vacation, some 250,000 dorm halls all have but one year to make a renovation of this venerable building is people poured into Washington, DC, as singular mark in the school’s history. The the next program to be undertaken with part of a freedom march to support JFK’s 1963-64 school year was shaped by prefects funds supplied through the Alumni Giving civil rights initiatives. The last speaker Bill Ashford, Fred Ball, Peter Diefendorf, Program…. The reconstruction of Law- of the day was Martin Luther King, Jr. Joe Fall, Bill Francis, Pete Hellebush, rence Hall should last for many years … Half a century later, his “I Have a Dream” Woody Johnston, and Eddie Neal, who [and] will make an even greater Asheville speech remains one of the most articulate were “chosen because of their ability to School” (The Ashnoca November 9, 1963, expressions of the promise of America ever carry responsibility, their leadership, and p. 2). made. King said his dream “[was] a dream their maturity” (The Ashnoca, October 12, deeply rooted in the American dream,” and 1963, p. 3). The fall sports season got off On November 2, 1963, South Vietnam’s went on to say, “I have a dream that one to a slow start. With just three returning first President, Ngo Dinh Diem, was killed day this nation will rise up, live out the lettermen - Fred Ball, Dave Chatham, and in a military coup that had America’s tacit true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these Eddie Neal - to shape its season, the varsity blessing. Whether planned or coinci- truths to be self-evident, that all men are football team lost its opening game to the dental, Anthony Collins’ column in the created equal.’” Fifty years later we have Mars Hill College freshman team, 19-0. November 9 Ashnoca discussed events in mastered the science of space travel and Age, size, and experience all played some Vietnam and the murder of Diem. Col- have been safely to the moon and back but role in the defeat, but in his sports column, lins offered a succinct summary of the continue to struggle with the seemingly Jim Fisher noted an additional factor: lack religious, military, and political issues in simple notion of human equality. of school spirit. Fisher wrote, “There was South Vietnam and concluded his column a sorry demonstration of school spirit. with very traditional Cold War language. Shortly after King’s speech, Asheville Cheering lagged…. The loss … was an School opened its fall term and welcomed indirect result of this apathy” (The Ash- “The continued existence of a free South seven new faculty members. Sally Lewis, noca, October 12, 1963, p. 5). With better Vietnam is of vital importance to the Uncle Will’s daughter, would teach Latin school spirit and student support, the team continued freedom of Southeast Asia. The for Mr. French while he was on a leave of bounced back with a 21-0 victory over Se- United States must combat communist absence. General John H. Weber would wanee Military Academy in its next game. aggression there, even if it means another teach mathematics. Gerald Shields would Korean War, for Southeast Asia is but one teach third form history, and Senorita The November 9, 1963, edition of The part of the communist plan for world Capote, perhaps responsible for the Ashe- Ashnoca was chock full of interesting items domination” (The Ashnoca, November ville School banana, would teach Spanish. about school life. The Blues celebrated 9, 1963, p. 2). Vietnam was no longer on The English Department had three new their November 2 football victory over America’s backburner. additions: Arthur Alderman, Frank De rival Christ School with a dance. Phil Saix, and Irv Ornduff, November 22, 1963, lacks “day of infamy” who retired in 2000 as nomenclature, but it is nonetheless etched a much revered senior in the minds of Americans of that era just master. While return- as Pearl Harbor Day left its indelible mark ing students were on that generation. In 1941, radio pro- excited to welcome grams were interrupted with news that the new faculty members Japanese had bombed Pearl Harbor. The to the school, they first bulletins would not have provided the were sad that William details of the damage. In 1963, television G. Hutchins, who had and radio programs were interrupted with come to the school in reports that three shots had been fired at 1939, retired at the end of the 1962-63 school Achievement • Spring 2014 27 year. In the closing months ter John Tyrer to say what being a prep of 1963, Vietnam was a schooler did not mean. “It does not mean troublesome issue that we are better than anyone else, just luckier” occupied some 25,000 (The Ashnoca, June 6, 1964, p. 4). American troops in a largely advisory capac- Commencement is a beginning. Just as the ity. Nobody imagined class of 1964 was beginning a new phase what lay ahead. of life, so were the school and its new Headmaster, John Tyrer. Graduation day Two milestones was a day of optimism. Class Poet Reid highlighted the spring Stafford captured that feeling in his poem. of 1964. One was “Drifting, over distant meadows … Come President Kennedy’s motorcade. Report- special, but as gradu- our hopes Of coming years… Drifting, ers believed from the outset that Kennedy ation occurred every year of the School’s into distant meadows, Go our doubts was seriously injured, but the extent of his history, it was neither unusual nor unique. Of coming years.” Nobody knew that by wounds was unknown. Disbelief, anger, The other event, though not unique, was summer’s end, an incident in the Gulf of fear, confusion were undoubtedly immedi- somewhat unusual in that it hadn’t oc- Tonkin, a place many people at the graduate reactions in both 1941 and 1963. curred since 1936: the naming of a new ation ceremony didn’t know existed, would headmaster. have a lot to say about our nation’s hopes Both Dan Sternberg and Ray Magyar recall and doubts. that the rest of the day after hearing of the On April 29, the Asheville School student assassination was not very productive. Jim body learned that John L. Tyrer had been On August 2, 1964, three North Vietnam- Fisher ’64 was not in a classroom when he appointed to replace the retiring David ese boats allegedly fired torpedoes at the learned of the assassination. He remem- Fall as Headmaster. Tyrer was currently American destroyer USS Maddox. The bers “walking into the Lawrence common teaching at the Hill School. He had degrees facts of that encounter remain murky at room and hearing that JFK had been assas- from Bowdoin and Middlebury; he had best. A similar incident was alleged to have sinated. Believe it or not, there actually was served as a chaplain’s assistant in the Army taken place on August 4. Fabricated, over- an uproar of mixed emotions: some kids of Occupation in Germany after WWII. He blown, or just simply confused, the reports actually thought that was a good thing…. had coaching experience, civic interests, of these two incidents resulted in the Gulf Apparently there was a lot of immaturity and a wife and three children. In an inter- of Tonkin Resolution – passed by a near- amongst the student body.” From the view, Tyrer said he had no plans to change unanimous Congress on August 7 and vantage point of 50 years later, though, he things right away, but rather wanted to get signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on adds “I don’t recall how I felt or remember to know the school more thoroughly first August 10. anything with the faculty’s reaction” (Jim (The Ashnoca, May 9 and 23, 1964). Fisher letter to Tom Marberger). The key language of H.J. Res. 1145 stated The class of 1964 spent the spring term that “Congress approves and supports the Because of the timing of publication, The doing “lasts.” Last games, last plays, last determination of the President, as Com- Ashnoca did not comment on Kennedy’s dances, last exams, last meals. They con- mander in Chief, to take all necessary mea- assassination until its December 7 issue. ducted their polls and chose their Class sures to repel any armed attack against the Initially taking the American public to task Superlatives– all in good fun. Pete Diefen- forces of the United States and to prevent for reaction rather than action, that issue’s dorf was valedictorian; Reid Stafford, class any further aggression.” The President of editorial then went on to say, “The orderly poet. Pete Hellebush delivered the saluta- the United States now had carte blanche to governmental transition during this period tory address, and Kent Van Allen gave the conduct war. can be attributed to our forefathers….Now Ivy oration. Diefendorf’s valedictory had we look to the future with optimism and a distinctly intellectual flavor as references Welcoming the students back to campus faith, recalling this incident as another test to works by John Ruskin, Carl Schurz, for the 1964-65 school year were a new for our democratic form of government.” Benjamin Disraeli, and Horace Mann ap- Headmaster, Mr. Tyrer, and five new class- peared throughout his talk (The Ashnoca, room teachers: Messrs. Carter, Fister, Gui- June 6, 1964, p. 2). Pete Hellebush’s saluta- teras, Jones, and Tatum. Mr. Tyrer would tory pondered what it meant to be a “prep serve as headmaster until 1992, and Chuck 28 Achievement • Spring 2014 schooler.” He cited incoming Headmas- Carter would be a teacher, coach, and later Kemp Davis, Henry Harris, Tom Huggett, Dan Sternberg, and Loehr Young. The Blues had a 3-4 football season but edged rival Christ School, 13-7, to salvage a good season. A new literary society was formed, and at their October meeting, the Trust- ees agreed to move forward with plans to renovate Lawrence Hall. Students went on camping trips with Pop Hollandsworth, Mr. Shields planned a student trip to Europe during the summer, and there was a victory dance to celebrate the win over the Greenies. A student poll favoring Gold- water to the contrary, Johnson won the presidential election. It was a typical term at Asheville School.

Ten days into the winter term, Lyndon Johnson was inaugurated as President of the United States. A larger-than-life figure in the houses, offices, and backrooms of Congress, Johnson was known for his ability to cajole, wheedle, or intimidate political friends and foes alike. That powerful personality did not transfer to Athletic Director until 2004. Much to the withdraw from Vietnam, while Goldwater his more purely public persona, and so his delight of the upper formers, the Lawrence believed it was in our interest to achieve inaugural address fell flat on the Ameri- common room had been refurbished over victory over the communists. The cam- can audience. Even when Johnson tried to the summer. New curtains, new carpet, paign is also known for the now infamous pique the American imagination with talk freshly painted walls, a new television, “Daisy” commercial – the Johnson ad first of a rocket on its way to Mars or when he newly covered furniture, and even new showing a girl picking flowers and then tried to tap into America’s long-held belief ashtrays and trashcans for the smokers showing an atomic explosion. In his Ash- in a greater good, there were no inspiring greeted students and allowed sixth formers noca column of October 17, 1964, Rusty reminders of Kennedy’s challenge to put a to enjoy their evening coffee and break- Young argued that LBJ was guided by the man on the moon or clarion calls to “ask fast on Sunday mornings in a much nicer principle of socialism. He ended his col- what we could do for our country.” And atmosphere (The Ashnoca, October 17, umn saying, “The American people must for a country still remembering the assas- 1964, p. 1). choose between a man … dedicated to sination, there was no comforting “nothing the expedient, and another who stands on to fear but fear itself,” as FDR had prom- In the fall of 1964, the American elector- principle” (The Ashnoca pp. 2, 4). Young ised more than three decades earlier. It was ate faced the clearest choice between two made no specific mention of Vietnam in a speech -- thoughtfully written, to be sure, candidates since Hoover ran against FDR; his column. and delivered to the best of LBJ’s ability, in fact, the differences in 1964 may have but it was little more than words on paper. been clearer. Goldwater was unasham- Fall editions of The Ashnoca suggest that Words that, as Lincoln both famously and edly conservative, while LBJ was proud of 1964 was like every other school year – wrongly said about his own Gettysburg his New Deal roots. Famous slogans – “a full of ups and downs. An article praised Address, “the world would little note, choice, not an echo” and “in your heart student spirit at one football game, but a nor long remember.” The speech lacked you know he’s right” (perverted to “in your later editorial took the seniors to task for something else. There was no mention of guts, you know he’s nuts”) – livened the a lack of cheering and support at games. Vietnam. campaign while simultaneously distracting Underformers were chastened for accept- voters from the real issues. Johnson was ing mediocrity, while the school congratu- portrayed as the candidate who wanted to lated five National Merit semi-finalists: Achievement • Spring 2014 29 As January ran into February, the class of 1966 elected Ben Folger as its president and George Bagley as vice-president. The seniors also chose their class officers and their commencement speakers. Among those selected was Edward Keezel as valedictorian. In what seemed to be a season for appointments and elections, senior Bob Schofield and junior Walt Trapnell were named prefects to help in Anderson Hall for the remainder of the year. The Duo Romeros, two classical guitarists, performed for the student body. While the varsity teams in all sports were performing well and winning more than they were losing, Will Crutchfield’s junior basketball team won its twenty-sixth straight game. In late February of 1965, President John- son approved Operation Rolling Thunder. On March 2, the first raid against North Vietnam was launched. The program Biltmore College. Asheville School made a The baseball team won its season opener, was intended to last eight weeks. It lasted bit of a splash in the media when “seniors but tennis, track, and golf were less fortu- three years. According to a Department Paulsen, Walter, and Keezel were featured nate in their season debuts. In a move that of Defense report on December 31, 1967, in a radio interview by General James E. would not affect the current seniors, the since its inception in March of 1965, Roll- Edmonds…. Questions requiring serious school informed students that the following Thunder had dropped 864,000 tons of thought were touched upon during the al- ing year would be set up in trimesters. The bombs on North Vietnam. That was more lotted twenty minutes … Both Walter and most obvious difference would be exams than the U.S. had dropped in the Korean Paulsen favored a firmer stand in Vietnam, three times a year instead of two. Part of War and the Pacific theatre in World War with Paulsen suggesting the bombing of the rationale was that this system would II combined. Although targets varied dur- North Vietnamese supply lines. Keezel reduce the pressure students felt with ing the course of the war, one of America’s asserted that we should instill the desire to exams twice a year. The argument was that primary goals was to close the Ho Chi win the war in the Vietnamese themselves each term would cover less material so Minh trail and shut off supplies to Viet and not go beyond the 17th parallel” (The the exams would be less imposing. That Cong troops in the South. The trail never Ashnoca May, 1, 1965, p. 1). was one way to look at it, but probably closed. In response to the bombing, in late not the way students saw it. Exams are March, the University of Michigan held the nation’s first teach-in.

Students returned to campus after spring break and began the final term. The Ash- noca named a new board for the 1965-66 school year and chose George Bagley as editor. The Dramatic Society announced that its spring play would be Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest. In an effort to broaden the curriculum, the school offered a new art course for the spring term. It was a non-credit class meeting twice a week, taught by a senior art major at Asheville- Uncle Will Lewis on the baseball field. 30 Achievement • Spring 2014 exams, something more to be loathed Five new faculty members awaited Ashe- than loved, and it is unlikely that students ville School students in the fall of ‘65. agreed with the “less stressful” rationale Among them were Kent Dixon ’60, who behind having them three times a year. would go on to have a distinguished career at Wittenberg University in Ohio, and Wil- Asheville School held commencement liam Embler. “Doc” Embler would teach exercises on June 5, 1965. Ben Holden ’36 biology and coach several sports at Ashe- was the guest speaker. Edward Keezel was ville School until he retired in 1993. The the valedictorian; Henry Harris, Ivy orator; fall started well for the Blues on the ath- William Sealy, class poet; William Callen- letic fields as Bob Ives scored three times der, salutatorian. On an earlier occasion, in the football team’s season-opening win Headmaster Tyrer made this comment to against Sewanee Military Academy. Ashe- the class of 1965. “I will remember you ville School fielded its first cross-country with affection, not only as the first class team that fall. Although the team lost its whose graduation I have the pleasure to first meet at Christ School, Charlie Kistler conduct, but as young men from whom ‘68 won the race and gave the Blues reason I have learned what it is to be a graduate for optimism. Running on their home of Asheville School” (The Ashnoca June 5, course in the third meet of the season, the 1965, p. 3). In his salutatory address, Bill Blues defeated Christ School with Kistler Callender expressed what every graduate once again taking first place. before him must have felt: “Some of us Uncle Will Lewis and Hop Arbogast began our life here six years ago: at that On November 13, in what The Ashnoca time it certainly seemed as if this day called “perfect football weather,” the Blues would never come. As we first sat in the played rival Christ School in the team’s The next day, November 14, the first rear of the chapel and looked to the front, sixth and final game of the season. Touch- conventional battle between regular U.S. we were almost certain this day would downs by juniors Bob Ives and Bob Drake troops and the North Vietnamese began never come. Even as we moved up in the and sophomore Greg Hall left the Blues at la Drang. Just as there would be many pews, this day was almost unforeseeable. three points shy in a 21-18 defeat in the more football games and dances, so, too, At last year’s graduation ceremonies, it final game of a 3-3 season. On that same would there be more battles in Vietnam. seemed impossible that our own day Saturday, Ian Whitman’s column appeared When students left for Christmas break, would come. But now that it is here, it is in The Ashnoca. Whitman wrote, “… the there were 200,000 American troops in even harder to realize what meaning it most contemptible people are the young Vietnam. holds for us… In spite of our hard times, men who burn their draft cards, demon- this school has come to mean something strate, and otherwise do their best to lower As January 1966 drew to a close, the to all of us – even though some might not the name of the United States. Burning campus was blanketed in snow – accord- admit it” (The Ashnoca June 5, 1965 p. 5). draft cards seems to me to be a form of ing to The Ashnoca, more than in the last treason … These Vietniks … want to end two years combined. While much of the While Asheville School held its graduation the war in Vietnam at all costs. They fail to nation was enjoying this winter blanket, ceremony, in Washington, DC, Senator realize that it is imperative to uphold the in Vietnam another type of blanketing Mike Mansfield sent a memo to President name of America as well as to preserve our was occurring. Operation Rolling Thunder Johnson urging the President not to bomb form of government…. for this country continued unabated, and in early spring, Hanoi-Haiphong because that would risk to lose the war would be a loss that would the first B-52 bombing raids into North widening the war. In late June, the U.S. take years to recover from…” (The Ash- Vietnam took place. Capable of dropping launched into territory just northwest of noca November 13, 1965 p. 2). Despite a 17 tons of explosives, these giant planes Saigon in its first purely offensive ground disappointing football game and a growing would continue to bomb North Vietnam operation of the Vietnam War. Later that awareness of the Vietnam War, that night with regularity until Johnson ordered a summer, in the dog days of August, the the student body enjoyed The Enchanters, halt in the closing months of his Presi- streets of Los Angeles erupted in violence who played for the weekend dance. dency in 1968. as the Watts Riots resulted in more than thirty deaths and millions of dollars in property damage. Achievement • Spring 2014 31 In the spring, the class of 1966 chose its graduation leaders, The Ashnoca selected its new board for the coming year, and construction moved ahead on the renovation to Lawrence Hall. Behind the pitch- ing of Howie Hunt ‘67 and the hitting of seniors Boo Hayes and Bob Crawford, the baseball team won its season opener. Returning senior lettermen Peterson, Dahle, and Lafaye helped the netmen win their opener against Hendersonville. The golf team lost its first match but bounced back with a victory in the second match. Senior Prefects from 1966 with Pop Hollandsworth. Although many individuals won their events, the track team lost its first meet to felt we could not survive the strict routine, question “What university do you plan on Lee Edwards, now Asheville High School but now that we have finished, we can see attending next year?” the lead answer was (The Ashnoca April 23, 1966 p.4 and May that it was not as terrible as it seemed. We Saigon U with 78 (The Ashnoca May 21, 7, 1966 p. 3). have made friendships that we will cherish 1966 p. 4). Whatever the message – hidden for the rest of our lives…. Those who have or otherwise – in that response, one thing As commencement approached, the May constantly complained about the school was very clear: the Vietnam War was on 21, 1966 Ashnoca headline announced will eventually admit that they have prof- the minds of students in 1966. “Student Council Opens New Era.” Se- ited tremendously from it” (The Ashnoca niors George Bagley and Walter Trapnell June 4, 1966 pp. 1 and 2). When the students returned to campus in led the Advisory Council to the successful the fall of 1966, the renovation of Law- completion of a constitution for Asheville Appearing in the penultimate edition, The rence was mostly completed. The most School’s new Student Council. After a few Ashnoca poll for 1966 contained a couple obvious aspect of the project was the addi- minor alterations, the faculty unanimously of elucidating items as the year drew to a tion of the Clarke House wing at the west approved the constitution. The students close. Although such polls are intended end of the dorm. The wing featured four met first in open assembly and then by to be irreverent, humorous, and sarcastic, new faculty apartments suitable for fami- forms before 91% of them accepted the they also reflect a certain element of truth lies with children and new shower room document. The student body then elected – or at least awareness and mood. To the facilities for the residence halls. The reno- Don Mathison ’67 as president and Tom question “Whom would you like to see as vated basement featured the bookstore, Rawleigh ’67 as vice-president. The stu- President in 1968?” the response was Gold- the school barber shop, and offices and dents chose Greg Hall ’68 to be secretary water, 79 and Timothy Leary, 10. To the conference rooms. The first floor residence (The Ashnoca May 21, 1966 p. 1).

Asheville School held commencement exercises on June 3 and 4, with former North Carolina Governor Terry Sanford delivering Saturday’s Commencement Address. Senior Ian Whitman had the lead role in Friday evening’s performance of The Curious Savage. The Casuals provided the music for the dance, which had a Roar- ing ‘20s theme. From the student perspective, the highlight of any commencement exercise is the awarding of the diplomas. On behalf of his class, salutatory speaker Benjamin Folger, III said, “Sometimes we

32 Achievement • Spring 2014 The Blue & White staff in 1966. Lawrence Hall following the Clarke House renovation in 1966. hall was spruced up with new paneling and House apartment wasn’t ready at the start drive during which they had donated $750 carpeting, and the masters’ apartments on of school, but they were scheduled to move to local families “whose situation seemed the halls were enlarged and remodeled. in in mid-October. Doug Embler would most urgent to the Cabinet” (The Ashnoca That summer, Bob Giffen ’61 found him- join the Asheville School staff about a January 21, 1967, p. 1). Steve Salley and self stationed in Vietnam and part of the quarter of a century later. Ross Hunter were named prefects for the “Secret War” in Laos and North Vietnam. second semester, and Uncle Will chose As experienced pilots rotated home, Bob As the fall progressed, the new student the members of the Wit ‘n Waffles discus- became an aircraft commander and a mis- council held more elections, and un- sion group. As lively as the conversations sion commander, for which he realized he derformers Tom Hand, Joe Massie, and were, the best part of the sessions was the had no real experience. During his tour, Edward Wright joined those elected the meal provided by Mrs. Lewis with the help one of his missions was to drop sensors previous spring. Although moral victories of one of the members. While members along the Ho Chi Minh trail to help our are seldom desirable in sports, that fall’s of the Wit ‘n Waffles were debating the Intelligence count traffic and plan mis- annual football game against the Greenies military draft and other topics, in Janu- sions. When told the details of the mis- proved to be an exception. Christ School ary, the United States launched Operation sion, Bob said to the civilian planners, “Of was looking for its second undefeated sea- Cedar Falls, a massive search and destroy course, you will be flying with us.” Their son in a row but ran into an inspired Blues mission near Saigon. “Search and destroy” answer was “No, they didn’t think so.” team. The game was a 7-7 tie, which The seemed a clinical enough term until events Bob’s response was that he didn’t think Ashnoca termed a victory because the un- at villages like My Lai put a different spin they should go because they might screw derdog Blues had outplayed the Greenies. on the phrase. it up. The mission never went (Bob Giffen, In recognition of the spirited effort by the letter to Tom Marberger). team and fans, Mr. Tyrer declared a holi- The basketball team closed the month day for the Monday after the game (The of February with six consecutive wins as Four new masters joined the faculty that Ashnoca November 26, 1966 p. 3). juniors Steve Straus and Greg Hall made fall: Messrs. Craig, Griffith, Sibley, and Ver- all-tournament in the Webb School Tour- duin. There was another addition that fall The winter term passed smoothly as 1966 nament; however, the Blues dropped the as well. William Douglas Embler was born rolled into 1967. The Mitchell Cabinet on September 17. The Emblers’ Clarke announced a very successful holiday fund Achievement • Spring 2014 33 The Class of 1967 season finale to rival Christ School in the Mr. Crutchfield’s junior basketball team At the end of February, the school com- Prep-School Tournament. Senior Howie finished with a 9-0 record, and Chess munity learned that beloved master “Uncle Hunt and junior Terry Hall were named Yellott ’68 finished the wrestling season Will” Lewis planned to retire at year’s end. all-tournament, and Hall shared MVP undefeated and won recognition as “the Mr. Lewis had come to Asheville School in honors with Greenies player John Hine outstanding wrestler of Western North the fall of 1923. He became head baseball (The Ashnoca April 22, 1967 p.3). Carolina” (The Ashnoca March 4, 1967). coach in 1926 and history department head in 1928. He held both of those positions until his retirement. February 28, 1967, was “Uncle Will Day’” as the school enjoyed a whole holiday in his honor. No other Asheville School faculty member had been honored in such a way (The Ashnoca March 4, 1967 p. 1). Shortly before “Uncle Will Day,” the U.S. launched Operation Junction City, the largest U. S. airborne operation since WWII.

Students returned from spring break to their busy schedule of classes, tests, and games. The baseball team began Uncle Will’s final season with victories over Greg Hall shoots it at the top of the key. Erwin High, Ben Lippen, and Pisgah High. The crew team was optimistic about its 34 Achievement • Spring 2014 chances, as five of the previous year’s eight from other years in most regards. Return- ing students greeted old friends, and new students made do as best they could. Students had seated dinner, assembly, and dorm meetings. Still, something was different about 1967. It might have seemed the same, felt the same, even smelled the same, with traces of Enka and Canton manu- Frank Dupree facturing emissions hanging in the air, but it didn’t look the same. Asheville School was now a racially integrated Hop Arbogast’s last game in 1967. school. In 1967 three brave young men were returning, and the tennis team got a sues of contemporary American living.” – Frank Dupree, Al boost as newcomers Tom Pettengill ’68 and Subsequent editions of the paper featured McDonald, and Oli- John Paul ’69 earned the top two slots on discussions on American radicalism and ver Prince -- broke the team. Largely unnoticed by Asheville the draft (The Ashnoca April 22, 1967 p. 2). the color barrier at Al McDonald School students was Martin Luther King, The class of 1967 graduated in the usual Asheville School. Jr.’s speech entitled “Beyond Vietnam,” way, with a ceremony on the Headmaster’s in which he “pondered the madness of lawn. Don Mathison gave the valedictory The Ashnoca Vietnam.” King was not the first to ques- and Bob Drake delivered the salutatory. headlines for the tion our Vietnam policy, but as an African- Bill Pearsall was the class poet and Bob Ives fall of 1967 might American of national prominence and a the Ivy orator – all traditional and con- have come from the supporter of Johnson’s Great Society, his ducted with the usual sense of Asheville 1940’s: the football voice carried particular weight. School decorum. But just as the country team beat Mars Hill was undergoing seismic shifts, in a lesser but lost to SMA; the As graduation approached, the mood of way, so too was Asheville School. Whether harriers had a suc- the campus was typical of spring. Students 1966-1967 was the last year of the old way cessful meet against were anxious to graduate, nervous about or the first year of the “new way,” change Enka; and fall soccer Oliver Prince final papers and exams, excited about was already sweeping the country and won its season open- playing games, and looking forward to change was coming to Asheville School: er. Just as editorials summer break. Perhaps different from pre- some of the change was by choice and in the 1940s took students to task for poor vious school years was the subtle change some would be by social forces beyond school spirit at football games, so too did a in The Ashnoca’s editorial policy. On April anyone’s control. letter to the editor in 1967; though unlike 22, the new editorial board announced its the 1940s, the 1967 version included the intention to devote editorial space not just The first day of school – or perhaps more faculty in its charge. The annual arrived, to school issues, but to the larger issues precisely, the first day when all students are students attended required culture, and facing the country and world. The board supposed to be on campus – is an entity three seniors were named National Merit stated, “Our school is desperately in need unto itself. Everyone who has ever at- semifinalists. It was a typical fall. Except it of intellectual controversy…. Henceforth, tended school has memories, especially of wasn’t. this editorial column will contain many the first year of being new. Opening day at of the controversial and meaningful is- Asheville School in 1967 was no different Achievement • Spring 2014 35 On October 21, 1967, some 100,000 6,000 volumes and over 200 shelves in the of Saigon. This was frontier justice at its protesters gathered in Washington, DC, to Mitchell Library. However, so efficient worst. “Gone viral” was not in the lexicon march against the war in Vietnam. Some and adept were the students that they in 1968, but this clip was run again and 50,000 marched on the Pentagon. Early finished the task by noon. The new space again on the news. The military argued in November, Secretary of Defense Robert would provide room for an additional that Tet was actually an American victory; McNamara sent a memo to President 6000 books, as well as tables and carrels for the American public disagreed. Johnson asking him to freeze troop levels study. and stop the bombing. Johnson rejected Americans were growing weary of the war. the proposal, and on November 29, The modern reader will find it hard to The credibility gap was widening, and McNamara resigned. All was not well for believe that the granting of radio privileges Eugene McCarthy challenged LBJ for the the Johnson administration as an election would be seen as a “monumental event,” Democratic nomination. In his February approached. In a November 11, 1967, Ash- but that’s what it was in 1968. The rules 17 Ashnoca editorial, Lewis Carter picked noca editorial, senior Lewis Carter wrote, limited the hours radios could be used, up on the political theme. Carter wrote, “… I wish to affirm my own identity with but still, the students viewed it as a step in “In 1968 I can vote for either Lyndon those who marched on Washington as a the right direction. News, music, sport- Johnson or Richard Nixon…. What is permanent witness to my ‘opposition’ to ing events – a connection to the outside the current choice in this free society … the war in Vietnam and as a demonstra- world – were suddenly much more readily Certainly not one of policy … The man tion that the conscience of America is not available to students. who steps into the White House in 1969 dead.” That message was much different had better have peace or uncompromising from Ian Whitman’s 1965 column. If students used their radio privileges on victory on his mind unless this country January 31, they heard a story of world- intends to wallow in its own swill for Christ School Weekend 1967 was the stuff changing impact. On that day, the North another four years.” On March 12, Eugene of Hollywood movies: the much revered Vietnamese launched their Tet Offensive. McCarthy came within 7 percentage points Coach Arbogast completing his thirty- For several hours, the American embassy of defeating President Johnson in the New eighth season; the team a three-touchdown in Saigon was under siege. It was one thing Hampshire primary. LBJ’s March 31 deci- underdog; 18 of Hop’s former team for the Viet Cong to have control of the sion not to seek re-election meant Carter captains on campus to hold a banquet in jungles, but this attack in the cities stunned was wrong about having Johnson as a their coach’s honor; fall weather. Perhaps the American public. February 1 produced choice, but otherwise, there are many who on top of that, the stars also aligned, but one of the most memorable images of would agree that he was spot on. whatever the reason, senior Greg Hall the Vietnam War. A television audience played the game of his life and led the that by this point had become somewhat April is usually a good month at Asheville Blues to an amazing 14-7 victory. The inured to the violence in Vietnam was School. Azaleas and dogwoods put on their players carried Hop off the field for his nonetheless shocked as it watched South spectacular color shows, the days lengthen “last ride.” The Ashnoca said “this year’s Vietnam’s Chief of Police take out his gun and get warmer, athletes enjoy their games Christ School game will probably go down and execute an NLF prisoner in the streets in the fresh air of spring, and seniors can in the records as the greatest team effort in the history of the Asheville School-Christ School rivalry” (The Ashnoca November 25, 1967 p. 3). Those who saw the game would not argue with that assessment, and the student body was delighted to celebrate the Monday whole holiday that was declared in Hop’s honor.

Students returned in January 1968 and found an unusual task awaiting them. It was time to move the library from Mitchell Hall to the basement of Lawrence Hall. It sounded like a Herculean task. There were

36 Achievement • Spring 2014 Moving the library from Mitchell to the basement of Lawrence. almost touch graduation. That idyllic period was shattered in 1968 when on April 4, Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in Memphis. King was not alone in his criticism of the war or in recognizing that the war was creating social turmoil in this country, but he was certainly one of the more prominent critics. His death and the upheaval that followed in cities across the country heightened the sense of unease the nation was already feeling.

As spring wound down, Ed Wright ’69 was elected to head the next year’s student council; Steve Goldner was chosen to be editor-in-chief of The Ashnoca; senior Charlie Kistler broke his own school record in the mile with a time of 4:37.4. On Boys having fun on 3rd Anderson. commencement weekend, the Dramatic King. Now this. Was our country, was the political leanings, the riot that occurred Society performed A. A. Milne’s The Ivory world, spinning out of control? appalled most Americans. If people had Door (spring editions of The Ashnoca). wondered in June if the country was out of Commencement exercises took place on As the summer of 1968 slipped by, the control, they now knew the answer: it was. June 1. Sheff Richey delivered the valedic- class of 1969 looked forward to its last year. tory, and in reference to the Vietnam War In early August, the Republican Party met A historian said of the 1850’s that the he said, “The members of this graduat- in Miami and nominated Richard Nixon country ate more history than it could di- ing class will seek to effect constructive as its Presidential candidate. The conven- gest. The same could be said of 1968. The changes within our political framework.” tion chose the unknown Spiro Agnew as Tet Offensive turned American opinion In his salutatory address, Greg Hall urged its Vice-Presidential candidate. Nixon about the war. Eugene McCarthy chal- the school to do more to prepare students campaigned as a law-and-order-candidate, lenged a sitting president of his own party for the social challenges that awaited them the spokesman for the forgotten man and and almost defeated him in a primary. after graduation. The students received the silent majority. He also had a secret While we can believe that LBJ truly wanted their diplomas, and the ceremony ended plan to end the war in Vietnam. It remains to devote his time to ending the war and with Greg Williamson’s Ivy oration. Stu- the best-kept secret in political history. not running for President, he knew his dents, friends, families, and guests enjoyed Presidency was finished and he was no a buffet lunch and departed campus. When the Democrats arrived in Chicago longer in control of events. He made the on August 26 for their political convention, best departure he could. The assassina- Though the year had not necessarily been Vice President Hubert Humphrey had tions of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Robert easy, it ended on a positive note. Three the lead in delegates and was seen as the Kennedy were crushing blows to America’s days later, on June 4, Robert Kennedy won party’s “war candidate.” Eugene McCarthy, optimism. The protests, flag-burnings, the California primary and established who was the first candidate to challenge and violence at the Chicago convention himself as a true contender for the Demo- Johnson seriously, was clearly the choice of stunned America. Americans like to see cratic nomination, if not the front runner. the anti-war movement and the likely re- themselves as good, tolerant, peace-loving Shortly after midnight, on the morning of cipient of the deceased Kennedy’s support- people. 1968 seemed to show America as June 5, Sirhan Sirhan shot Kennedy three ers. As important as what happened inside anything but that. times, with one shot hitting Kennedy in the convention was, what everyone will the head. Twenty-four hours later, at 1 am forever remember is what happened out- And so it was that in the fall of 1968, the on June 6, Bobby Kennedy died. It was side the convention on August 28. People class of 1969 returned to campus and a terrible tragedy for the Kennedy family will assign blame for what happened as troubled times amid rugged mountains. and another blow to the country’s equilib- they see fit and perhaps in accordance with rium. Much of the nation was still coming their political perspective. Whatever one’s to grips with the murder of Martin Luther Achievement • Spring 2014 37 Bob Walker Bob has three grandchildren, two at East Carolina University, and one in the eighth grade. “We travel watching them in various things,” he writes. “Our last trip for ourselves was a 10- day trip to Canadian Rockies, which we loved.”

“We also go to Vermont where our 1958 daughter, Tina, and her husband 1936 and 3-year-old twins hold court. Charles Robinson Fawsett Walter Pettit They have several businesses, the Robin practices management Walter was selected to be inducted latest of which is a fledgling maple labor law in Orlando FL, with into The Olympic Club Hall of syrup company. Our son, Collins, is Shutts & Bowen LLP; he and his Fame 2013. He received the award only an hour away from us, teach- wife, Edith, live in Winter Park, at the induction ceremony in ing English at Tabor Academy in FL, and Highlands, NC. October at the City Clubhouse in Marion, MA.” San Francisco. He’s a proud member of the “great class of 1936” and Steve North 1968 John Macatee is humbled to receive this award. Steve writes: “After graduating John updates family news from from Brown and spending two Iowa City, IA, where he enjoys years in the army, I sold stocks and the arts, music and the U of bonds for 10 years in San Fran- 1955 Iowa. His daughters play in their cisco. I then taught English in a Eric Hartell high school orchestra and band. number of Bay Area high schools Eric and his wife, Lynne Kiefer, The family visited London, for 31 years. Since I retired, I’ve have been married 52 years this Rome, and Florence last spring been writing short stories and plays. year. They have two children. Eric and would love to visit his home I’ve also been acting in numerous worked for 18 years in the newspa- town of Asheville again. per business in Cape Cod, where community theater productions he owned the local newspaper in including my own one-man show, Chatham. He sold the paper and LineLoad, based on a disastrous production of King Lear. My two 1971 worked for a 15-paper group of Bill Garten daughters are school teachers: Cyn- weeklies on the Cape. He then Bill has published five books of thia, an English teacher in Mary- helped start up a classical music FM poetry: Box of Pain, Box of Fear; land, and Katherine, a second grade station in town, serving as the news Black Snow; teacher in Marin County. My son director. Eric and his wife, Lynne, Red Rain; David is a banker in Apple Valley, retired in 2006. They have trav- Symptoms; CA. I now have six grandchildren.” eled mostly to Europe during their and Eventu- retirement. He writes: “On a trip ally. Bill is William Lea (Nick) Palmer up the Adriatic coast from Greece the winner Since retiring from the U.S. Army to Slovenia, we met a couple who of The Em- in 1991 in the Infantry division, knew Nick Palmer 1955, and we’ve erson Prize Nick has traveled across the country been following his accounts of for Poetry and is a volunteer for Habitat for ambitious motorcycle trips around and The Humanity. He served on the Board the globe. This spring we’re off to Margaret Ward Martin Prize for of Visitors at the University of Australia and New Zealand. Creative Writing. North Carolina at Chapel Hill from 38 Achievement • Spring 2014 1994 to 1997. Alison Knight Baigrie 1983 and her husband, Tom (left), visited Parce Ainsworth 1983 and her husband, Tony, in New York, NY in October of 2013. Alison and Tom were visiting from London for a wedding.

erstown, MD. I teach Spanish, 1976 1979 serve as the school librarian Dr. Helen Stockinger Jennifer Sherman and do all the other duties of a Helen has moved to Spartanburg, Jennifer writes: “Just celebrated my boarding school teacher!” SC, and is on the faculty at VCOM- 20th year working at Saint James DO school. She is teaching medical School, a boarding school in Hag- students and loves it. 1978 Sally Jewell Coxe Sally, president and co-founder of the Bonobo Conservation Initiative (BCI), recently spoke to students in Frank Kriegler’s AP Biology classes. While on campus last fall, Sally presented the library with two copies of the newly released Empty Hands, Open Arms: The Race to Protect Bonobos and Make Conservation Go Viral by award-winning author Deni Béchard. Achievement • Spring 2014 39 1982 Mt. LeConte Alumni Hike Dr. William T. Rankin Bill is still living in Durham, NC, and has a new job as a research engineer at a small software firm (siginnovations.com). He is racing sports cars on the track (VIR) and working with dog rescue. 1987 John Thorsen John is happy to announce that he accepted the Headmaster position at Athens Academy effective July 1, 2014. “I have loved my four years back at Asheville School, and I am excited about the adventure that awaits our family in Athens.” Athens Academy is a terrific day Asheville School alumni and friends gathered this past January for their annual winter trek school with 960 students in K3- to the summit of Mt. LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This hike has 12th grade. The school is located been made every winter since 1972 in memory of Doc Lindsley, a friend of former Asheville an hour northeast of Atlanta in School Mountaineering Director, James G. “Pop” Hollandsworth. Doc Lindsley was killed Athens, GA. while climbing Mt LeConte with Pop in January 1971, and Pop organized and continued the annual hike in memory of his friend. This past year had special significance in that Pop passed away in June of 2013 and this year’s hike was dedicated to the memory of both Doc 1990 Lindsley and Pop Hollandsworth. Shown here on the hike are Asheville School alumni and John Dalton Jr. students, (L-R) Karl Koon 1974; Kelly Koon 2011; Katherine Koon 2014; Karel Koon John writes: “It was great to be on 2017 and Kerry Koon 2020. campus in October with my wife, our two boys and my father-in-law. Atlanta, where Katherine has been Seeing old friends like Mr. Bonner, with Sony Mobile Communications 1994 Ms. Cianciulli and Burt Gordon for 3 years. was great. The school looks fan- Lori Putney Koch tastic, especially the new Science In early December, Lori recorded Center. We also made a trip out to her five-year-old daughter Claire’s Candler to see Doc and Mrs. holiday concert at school. Claire Embler.” surprised her deaf parents by signing to them during the performance. After Lori uploaded the 1993 video to YouTube, it went viral – Katherine Lewis Lockett accruing more than 6 million views George Lockett and Katherine were in its first week. Claire’s impromptu married September 16, 2013, and interpretation has helped raise Katherine took his last name, so she awareness about KODA (Kids of is now Katherine L. Lockett. Their Deaf Adults) and ASL (American daughter, Kayla Clair Lockett, is Sign Language). The video has now 15 months old. They live in 15-month-old Kayla Clair Lockett is the daughter of Katherine Lewis Lockett 1993. 40 Achievement • Spring 2014 John Russell 1985, Chris Russell 1987, Hyde Russell 1991 and their families participated in the Turkey Trot at Asheville School on Thanksgiving morning along with several faculty families. The run was on the Asheville School trails.

John Dalton Jr. 1990 is pictured with his two boys while visiting campus with his family in October. Achievement • Spring 2014 41 From left to right: Mary Wall, Gaurang Shah 2000 and his wife, Khevna, and Burt Gordon. The Shahs enjoyed some time in Asheville during a visit in late October. Gaurang and Khevna live in Mumbai, where he is working with his brother Devang 2000.

been featured on ABC News, Yahoo lived since 2002 when I came to News, Huffington Post, Today Show, 2001 Loyola University-New Orleans Gawker, Buzzfeed and more. Douglas Smith as an undergrad. I am also cur- Visit www.youtube.com/llputney to Douglas and his wife of five years rently a graduate student at Our see the video. live in Landover MD; he works in Lady of Holy Cross College, where Washington, DC. In addition, Doug I am seeking a Master’s degree in is currently working on his MBA at Counseling. I will be graduating Johns Hopkins. in the spring of 2015. As a Regis- tered Veterinary Technician, I have worked at a local veterinary hospi- Lori and her husband Tom were 2002 tal for the past 5 years. I have been both born deaf. Claire and her Chris Boehner married to my wonderful husband, younger sister Charlotte can hear, Chris and his company Vericant Vincent, a native of New Orleans, but have been learning American were recently highlighted in a for almost 4 years.” Sign Language since birth. The Forbes article, Ghostwriting for family lives in Clearwater, Florida. Chinese College Applicants. Kudos 2003 to Chris and his good work in Noah Francis 2003 China! Noah writes: Greetings from the

warm and sunny city of London Amanda Scully Pizzo [extraordinary weather in the fall Amanda writes: “I currently live of 2013]. While the weather here is 42 Achievement • Spring 2014 in New Orleans, LA, where I have a far cry from the tropical climate of my home in the Caribbean, I have been thoroughly enjoying my experience living in Europe. So far I have been able to explore many different countries and to experience a variety of cultures in the region and beyond, including Africa and the Middle East. My current role in the corporate banking department of JPMorgan involves late nights and business trips on a frequent basis, which makes me long for the relaxed pace of life in Asheville. I often recall those happy days when I bump into fellow Asheville School alumni on my travels!

P.S. - Happy to report that due to the number of coworkers from Spain and Latin America in my department, my Spanish-speaking skills have substantially improved! I sleep soundly at night knowing that somewhere in the world On November 2, 2013, David Spear 2001 married Vy Truong in Irvine, California. Señora Campbell is smiling. Classmate Nat Wittstruck 2001 was in attendance. The couple resides in Orange County, California. 2004 which his vehicle was engaged with Christina L. Slater small arms fire from two positions Christie is the owner of Tinker 2005 during a halt in Northern Afghani- Art Studio in North Boulder, CO, David B. Emigh stan. which offers a working art studio David has been awarded the Com- for all ages where teachers en- bat Action Badge by the 101st Sus- David was also awarded the courage creative ways to engage tainment Brigade for the third time. Military Outstanding Volunteer in projects, and student artists to He can wear only one Combat Ac- Service Medal in March of 2014 create organically. She is also the tion Badge on his uniform during a for his hospital volunteer work. force behind community art proj- declared period of service, however, ects such as Paint the Pavement, a and the Global War on Terrorism, Matt Gravatt permanent street art installation which is Sept 18-TBD covers that. Matt returned to Washington, DC, painted by neighbors, in North During his first deployment to Iraq, in early 2013 after working in Boulder. Her art studio has teamed in 2007 he was exposed to a rocket North Carolina during the 2012 up with Boulder Opera to create attack on Contingency Operat- election cycle. He has just begun a set design and Boulder Housing ing Base Adder. During his second graduate study at Johns Hopkins Partners to host workshops. Chris- deployment to Afghanistan in 2010, University, where he is pursuing a tie has a CO State Teaching License he encountered multiple impro- master’s degree in government with in elementary education as well as vised explosive devices and small a focus in political communication art, and has a Masters degree in arms fire while supporting the U.S. and national security studies; he integrated teaching throughout the Marine Corps in Helmand Prov- expects to complete his thesis in arts. ince. This latest award was for an early 2015. engagement on October 8, 2013, in Achievement • Spring 2014 43 Top Janpen , 2004-05 Royal Thai Scholar (far right), visited with physics teacher Karen Cianciulli and current Thai Scholar Steve Tubnonghee 2014 while in Asheville last fall.

Top Janpen create an innovative entrepreneur- school and middle school students. Top visited with physics teacher ship program at Dunn School. He continues to support the local Karen Ciancuilli and current Thai As an early adopter of the Lean startup community by participat- Scholar Steve Tubnonghee ’14 Launchpad Methodology, Alex has ing in local events, volunteering his while in Asheville last fall. Top has been able to build one of the first time as a co-instructor for the Lean earned his Ph. D. in Economics programs tailored toward high LaunchPad at UCSB’s Technology from Washington University in St. Louis and has returned to Thailand, where he has been appointed econ- omist for the Fiscal Policy Office in the Thai Ministry of Finance. Top’s dissertation, “Essays in Entrepre- neurship and Innovation,” discusses innovation strategies of high-tech start-ups in the U.S. as well as the survivorship of new businesses in the U.S. Friends can contact Top at [email protected].

Alex Kehaya Alex is teaching Spanish at the Dunn School in Ojai, CA, where he is married and living a happy Alex Kehaya 2005 (left) is pictured with Andy Hirt, former Admission Director at Asheville life. He recently was inspired to School. Hirt, who is now the Director of Member Relations at The Association of Boarding Schools, met with Alex while visiting the Dunn School. 44 Achievement • Spring 2014 Management Program. Founding Jennifer A. Czubak NextMove, Inc, advising several 2006 Jennifer reports she is currently startups, and developing countless Nathaniel Smith living, working and riding her business ideas has allowed him to Nate enrolled in 2013 in a Master’s horse, Jordan, in Louisville, bring real world experience into of Industrial Design program at KY. She adds that she loves the classroom. Follow him on his NCSU. Asheville School. blog TeachingTrep and on Twitter @afkehaya. Moriah “Mollie” Petersen Mollie (now going by her given 2011 Rob Kehaya name Moriah) is living in Silver Grace Raynor “A lot has happened since I left Spring, MD, and teaching/coach- Grace is featured (wearing her Asheville School. My last semes- ing at a girls day school in Bethesda Asheville School alumni shirt) in a ter in college I attended an 80-day (Holton-Arms). video from The Daily Tar Heel. NOLS course with my brother Alex. You may view the video at It was the greatest experience of my http://media.dth.s3.amazonaws. life, and I was fortunate to share 2007 com/21202_tisd_jones_howzeo. it with him. What a way to gradu- Sallie Banta mp4 ate! About a year after I graduated from College of Charleston, I had the opportunity to attend Duke’s Fuqua School of Business, where I earned a Master’s in Management Studies. I fell in love with entrepre- Kathryn Muller neurship and started my company Kathryn is a DJ for Chapel Hill’s SpeedFaces.com in January 2013. college radio station, WXYC 89.3 Through the many challenges I FM. She hosts a 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 have faced, Asheville School has Sallie Banta 2007 visits with Jay Bonner a.m. show on Wednesday mornings. never left my thoughts. No matter in Boston. Also in attendance were Karen Cianciulli, Ian Van Wye 2013, and Matt where I’ve found myself, there is Champ Somboonpanyakul Patton 2008. always a cherished AS memory Champ, a student at the Univer- to get me through. I love and sity of Chicago, gave a talk about computer science education at the miss my AS family, and wished 2008 there were a better way to reconnect Caitlin Bradley International Conference for the than Facebook and LinkedIn. This Caitlin writes: “I graduated from Integration of Science, Technol- is why I created SpeedFaces. UNC-Asheville with a degree in ogy and Society (ICISTS). You may Interdisciplinary/International view Champ’s blog about the I’m excited to announce my com- Studies and minors in History presentation at http://leogulus- pany has the opportunity to bring and Asian Studies in 2012. Having champ.blogspot.com/2013/09/the- our school family closer together recently returned from a year of script-for-talk-at-icists-kaist-2013. in a way no other online profile teaching English in South Korea, html does: face-to-face. In the com- I have relocated to Duluth, GA, ing weeks you’ll hear more about and am currently looking for job SpeedFaces and our Asheville opportunities in the area. I have School virtual alumni networking. had my most rewarding job experi- ences working with social media I am forever grateful to my Ashe- and writing, and I would love to ville School family for helping me find a job that allows me to further become the man I am today. I’m develop these skills.” excited to give back through the platform I created and hope you will all join me in doing so!” Achievement • Spring 2014 45 one is doing well in their lives, and tionships with his fellow students I hope to visit Asheville in the near and teachers,” according to the 2012 future!” profile. “The small, close-knit com- Natalie Kuehl munity of Asheville School taught Natalie was asked to join Sigma Qualey the importance of honor Alpha Lambda in recognition of her 2013 through the school’s strict honor “outstanding academic achievement Jack Qualey code, and also taught him to work throughout the course of under- Jack has transferred from UVM to hard in school while striving to be graduate studies at the University the College of Charleston, effective well-rounded by exploring a variety of Alabama.” Sigma Alpha Lambda Spring 2014. of activities offered by the school.” is a National Leadership and Hon- ors Organization. Last fall, Natalie He was a featured Asheville School Jack is currently studying marine transferred to UNC-Wilmington, alumnus in the January issue of biology and enjoying sea kayak- where she is majoring in Interna- Hilton Head Magazine. ing. He was involved in the outing tional Business. club, RUF (a Christian organiza- “Asheville School greatly prepared tion), and intramural broomball Qualey for college, while also allow- while at UVM. ing him to develop life-long rela- San Francisco Event

Tobi Shannon 2012 Tobi L. Shannon Tobi writes: “Over the winter break From left to right: John Thorsen 1987, Jan Merryweather 1981, Tim Irvin 1983, Bob of 2013, I was able to travel to six Gamble 1971, Arch Montgomery, Won Jung Yun 2011, Max Paderewski 2006, Cherry different countries in South Amer- Meng 2008. Not pictured: Geoff Gordon Creed 1980, David Pless 2009, Steve North 1955 ica through the Semester At Sea winter voyage. It has further helped me on my journey to becoming a A Visit in Boston true ‘global citizen.’” We traveled to the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. Learning about cultures other than my own is developing my knowledge of the world around us and is helping me as I strive to become an international human rights lawyer. I hope every-

46 Achievement • Spring 2014 Science teacher Karen Cianciulli visits with Ian Van Wye 2013 (left) while in Boston. Rogers ’56 Celebrates 50th Wedding Anniversary

This is a family celebration of Jean and Talmage (1956) Rogers’ 50th wedding anniversary. The photo is from this past summer, taken in Maui, Hawaii. In addition to Talmage G. Rogers, Jr., the photo also includes (men left to right, on back row) Talmage G. Rogers III (1982), Shaun Rogers (1984), Kevin Rogers (1986), and Derek Rogers, as well as their wives and children. Asheville School Events

Head of School Arch Montgomery and Assistant Head of School for Advancement John Thorsen 1987 gathered for lunch with Boston- area alumni at the Somerset Club in December. Back Row: (left to right) Assistant Head of School John Thorsen, Conner Hayes 2005, Bill Callender 1965, Josh Anderson 1999, Andrew Stuckey 2006, Ian Van Wye 2013, Laura Giannitrapani 1975, and Matt Patton 2008.

Young alumni joined Associate Head of School Jay Bonner at Spanky’s in Chapel Hill. Pictured beside Bonner (far left) are Brian Becker 2011, Matt Evans 2012, and Vanessa Haugh 2008. Walter Pettit 1936 is pictured with Arch Montgomery. Achievement • Spring 2014 47 Positive Attitudes Lead To A Winning Season in Blues Wrestling

By Sheila Steelman Associate Director of Communications

With a season that ended in a 20-12 record, the senior co-captains of Asheville School’s wrestling team saw twice as many wins this season as in the rest of their years combined.

In fact, these senior leaders set the tone early on for young wrestlers like Conor Fenn, who ended the season with an exciting 2nd place finish at the state wrestling tournament. Fifth formers Chase Jeffries and Sean Wrinkle both took third in the state tournament and John Galusha finished fourth.

“I have been to many matches this season and seen a talented, diverse and tightly knit group of young men pull off the unthink- able time and time again,” says Asheville School Athletic Director Chapman Kern.

Head coach Christopher Arbor adds, “As individuals, our boys have won 233 matches and lost 68. But those numbers aren’t our success; they’re a byproduct of it. The success is in forging our minds, bodies, and spirits during practice so that the match results are inevitable.” Coach Arbor congratulates third former Joseph Heck during a home match.

The most significant win for the team was Entering as underdogs and overcoming the ability for their coaches, for one another, against cross-town rival, Christ School, odds to be victorious was an inspiring suc- and for themselves.” during the inaugural CAA Champion- cess the entire school celebrated. ships. The meet with Rabun Gap, Christ School, and Asheville School was a won- “The nail-biting finish between Asheville Senior co-captains Otto Putzrath and derful demonstration of sportsmanship School and Christ School, determined by Quin Thompson both agreed that beating and competitive intensity. the 8th place tie-breaker in the rule book, Christ School was a highlight of the season captured the essence of how one small for the entire team. “Christ School has a bigger team both in move, one point in the right place at the “It was awesome knowing that every terms of numbers and size, and they’ve right time, can impact a wrestling match,” wrestler on the team contributed to the got more coaches with more experience,” Kern says. “The Blues prevailed 40-36 in one-point victory,” Putzrath says. “There Arbor says. “Coach Haller and I couldn’t one of the closest matches, contests or were a lot of details that mattered for the be more pleased.” meets I have ever been a part of. I was so tiebreaker, and all of our guys went the proud of our team and how determined extra distance in their matches.” they were to compete to their maximum 48 Achievement • Spring 2014 Thompson adds, “The whole team came together like I’ve never seen, and through this team spirit, we were able to win. The team spirit that emerged during the match was a highlight for me, and also the faith our team placed in our coaches to lead us to victory.”

Coach Arbor hopes the lessons they learn for the mat are lessons they apply to their lives, striving to overcome obstacles – whatever they may be.

“I could list a lot of lessons I’ve learned from wrestling, but two of the most important – the two I most want to pass onto our boys – are overcoming external obstacles and internal ones,” Arbor says. “Out there on the mat, there’s a clear external obstacle: the other guy. But even more important is overcoming the self. Anyone can find an opponent to beat, but defeating the small voice inside yourself that tells you to quit when the going gets tough? That’s another matter entirely. These two lessons go way beyond the wrestling mat and are a crucial part of any education.”

Putzrath and Thompson both noticed a drastic shift in the team’s affect from their beginning days as Asheville School Co-Captain Otto Putzrath was a crucial part of the team’s success this year. wrestlers. but now every wrestler, starting or not, vet- terpart, Co-Captain Quin Thompson, have “The biggest change I’ve seen has been the eran or not, really cares about his success been key components of the Blues’ success attitude of the team. This was the first sea- and the success of the team,” Thompson this year,” says Kern. “Newcomers to the son during my tenure where there was no says. “This season has just made me love squad, Chase Jeffries, Jake Buck, Conor negative energy,” says Putzrath. “The guys the sport. It is the best feeling to see my Fenn, Elliott Schenker and Erik Ligai, have assumed the right balance of having fun team excel because I care about them and all provided a boost to the depth and talent and working hard. We were always there they have earned every bit of their suc- of this unassuming team of competitors.” for one another and everyone on the team cess. Wrestling is very demanding, but also was a great leader in his own right. I hope perhaps my most rewarding high school Arbor concurs, saying each wrestler on I showed through example that everybody endeavor.” the team is a standout wrestler this year. “There are no weak links. Last year, Otto and anybody can be a good wrestler with Kern credits the incredible leadership from was our standout wrestler. This year, he’s the right attitude and drive to learn.” the co-captains, along with the dedica- taken the rest of the team with him. Our tion from the newcomers, to this season’s small contingent of seasoned wrestlers is With a deeper appreciation for the sport, success. Thompson hopes he’s passed on a love of providing excellent leadership, and the wrestling to the rest of his teammates. “The tenacious, technical skill of Co- bulk of the team consists of committed Captain Otto Putzrath, along with the grit, first- and second-year wrestlers who are “My freshman year, there were a few indi- determination and flexibility of his coun- surpassing all expectations. viduals driven towards individual success, Achievement • Spring 2014 49 Mac McCallum (far right) stands with José and Siggley De La Cruz, who hold up a welcome home sign for their children, Ana and Luis. Many of the families in Saudi Arabia make similar signs for their kids to welcome them back home. Asheville School Legacy Students

Sixteen legacy students entered Asheville School at the beginning of the 2013-14 school year: Eliza Thompson, Campbell Davitt 2017, Emma Kussrow 2015, Constance Ambler 2016, Will Casse 2017, Elizabeth Thomas 2017, Emma Van Wynen 2016, Gracie Pearsall 2015, Karel Koon 2014, Meredith Dickinson 2014, Zan McPherson 2014, Hudson Dickinson 2017, José Torrado-Garcia 2015, and Walker Garrish 2015. 50 Achievement • Spring 2014 Board Welcomes Five New Trustee Members

From Staff Reports (Read about her participation in the Jonathan Winebrenner (ex officio Par- 10,300 mile event on page 22.) Holding a ents’ Association) P ’15, ‘16 Oliver Prince 1971, Chairman of the bachelor’s degree in English from Vas- Board of Trustees, welcomed five new sar and an MA in English from Florida Jonathan Winebrenner, of Falls Church, Board members at the October meeting. State, Charla has also studied language in VA, is Director of Human Resources for Each of these trustees was recruited for his Italy. With versatile accomplishments to the Mandarin or her specific experience and ability to her credit, Charla is certified in teaching Oriental Hotel. serve the school in meeting certain needs. English as a Second Language and rescue A graduate of Asheville School’s Board of Trustees meets diving, and has published as well as edited the College of three times each year to manage the busi- articles. While at Asheville School, she was William and ness affairs and policies of the School. student chairperson of the Honor Council Mary, Jonathan and a senior prefect. Charla received the has boarding Peter Covington 1971 Headmaster’s Prize at graduation. Charla school experience Vice-chairman of McGuire Woods and a currently lives in Bangkok. from Mercers- member of the firm’s Executive Commit- burg Academy. tee and Board of Partners in Charlotte, Dr. Fred Wherry 1990 He and his wife, Peter specializes Fred is currently a professor of Sociology Rebecca, have in commercial, at Yale, where he also serves as co-director three children; business, and of the the Center for Cultural Sociology. Max and Annie financial services He has previously been a faculty member are currently a litigation. He at the University fifth former and fourth former respectively earned his JD of Michigan and at Asheville School. from Tulane the University in 1980 and of Pennsylvania. Rebecca Winebrenner (ex officio Parents’ his BA from He earned his Association) P ’15, ‘16 UNC-Chapel Master in Public Holding a Bachelor of Business Admin- Hill in 1975. At Affairs degree istration from the College of William Asheville School, from Princeton’s and Mary, Rebecca has been the owner Peter participated Woodrow Wilson of a property in basketball and School in 2000 management as a cheerleader. and his PhD in business in Falls Other activities included the ‘A’ Society Sociology from Church, VA. An and Dramatic Society. One of his teach- Princeton in alumna of Notre ers commented, “Peter puts his class work 2004. A Morehead Scholar, Fred earned Dame Academy, first, then he thinks about other things.” his BA from UNC-Chapel Hill after spend- Middleburg, ing a post-secondary year as an English- VA, and a past Peter and his wife, Nancy, are the parents Speaking Union Scholar in England. At board member of Elizabeth, Matthew, and Emily. Chapel Hill in the early ‘90s, he lobbied of Chatham Hall, for cultural diversity and human rights; in Chatham, VA, Charla Hughes 2004 (Associate) addition, he spent time in South Africa as a she has served In her ten years since graduating from social worker, ran a program for youth on as a Girl Scout Asheville School, probation, and directed a drama workshop leader for several Charla has pur- in the Alexandra Township of Gauteng years and currently volunteers at Asheville sued a variety of province. A senior prefect at Asheville School as well. international ex- School, Fred earned recognition as a periences, teach- scholar, an actor, and a strong member of Rebecca and her husband, Jonathan, are ing in Thailand, the cross-country and track teams. the parents of a daughter in college and South Korea, and Fred and his spouse, James Furst, live in two children at Asheville School. Indonesia, and Manhattan. recently compet- ing in a cross- continental road rally from Eng- land to Mongolia. Achievement • Spring 2014 51 The Hayes family – A Presidential Connection to Asheville School For nearly four decades, the sons and Platt Hayes. A tradition was born between In addition to farming, Rud Hayes grandsons of Rutherford Platt Hayes, son Cornell University and the Hayes family, founded and engineered the first water of the 19th president of the United States, which resulted in two of the President’s company in West Asheville. He named it attended Asheville School. sons, as well as me, graduating from this “The Buckeye Water Company” in honor venerable institution. of the family’s home state, Ohio. Rud William Platt Hayes — Class of 1915 Hayes also became friends of both Newton Birchard Platt Hayes — Class of 1920 My grandfather bought a lot of land Anderson and Charles Mitchell, fellow in what is now West Asheville and set Ohioans and founders of Asheville School; Rutherford Platt Hayes— Class of 1948 up an experimental farm. Drawing it was because of this friendship that Richard Platt Hayes— Class of 1951 Hayes sent both of his sons, William Taylor Hayes— Class of 1952 William and Birchard, as well as assorted nephews, to By Richard Hayes 1951 the school.

Rutherford Platt Hayes, my grandfather, My Father’s Time moved to the mountains of North One incident, which Carolina shortly before the turn of the happened in my father’s twentieth century. I am not sure of the 5th form year, had to do exact date, but my uncle Bill was born in with talking to a girl who Chicago in 1897, and my father was born later became his sister- in Asheville in 1902. Why Rud Hayes in-law. Evidently, in my moved to West Asheville is somewhat father’s day, boys were complicated; it has to do partly with his not permitted to have health (Asheville was known for healthy any contact with girls mountain air and sanatoriums), partly unless strictly supervised because Asheville had become a “social by an adult approved by address” after Vanderbilt had constructed the school; the violation his residence, and partly because of the of this edict, my father sheer beauty of the mountains. Another told me, could result in reason, not withstanding the Vanderbilts, expulsion! My father was was that rural West Asheville was a place observed speaking to a he could escape the notoriety of being a young lady while walking son of President Rutherford B. Hayes; this near Pack Square. The last reason didn’t work out entirely as he incident was reported to had planned. I still have invitations from “PG” Coffey, dean and the White House, sent to “Rutherford Platt chief disciplinarian of the Hayes, Asheville, North Carolina”; my school. “PG,” who was not father, Birchard Platt Hayes, tacked these Richard Hayes 1951 one of my father’s favorite up over his desk when he was a student at upon his training at Cornell, he began masters, called my father to his office Asheville School - each one with either an experimenting with crops and livestock, and sneeringly said, “I got you this time, “A” for accept, or an “R” for reject. to establish which strains of corn, which Birchard.” When my father explained the breeds of pigs, cows, and chickens, etc., girl’s future relationship and after a quick Rutherford Platt Hayes graduated from and which land management techniques phone call, my father was summarily Cornell University with a degree in were best applied to farming the mountain dismissed. Agricultural Engineering, the first college land of North Carolina. The Hayes family to offer this degree. Ezra Cornell, whose also had a resident biologist/naturalist/ Another story my father told me was about fortune was based upon his holdings in scientist living with them at “Falconhurst,” moving out of his room the last day of Western Union Telegraph, had availed the Hayes farm. My father was a constant school. Because his family lived in West himself additionally of the recently enacted companion of “Mac,” Dr. McCormick, and Asheville, not too far from the school, my Morrell Land Grant Act, and founded developed a lifelong interest in biology, father had access to the family automobile. Cornell University. The first president and chemistry, physics and photography – He told me that he drove the car, an open- co-founder of that institution was Andrew all taught by “Mac” in the field. In fact, topped touring sedan, underneath the White, who just happened to be the former my father was almost entirely “home window of his room, and dumped all his ambassador to Germany, appointed by schooled” until he entered Asheville School belongings out the window into the car. Rutherford B. Hayes, father of Rutherford in 1917. Birchard Platt Hayes received a BS from 52 Achievement • Spring 2014 the University of Wisconsin, and a JPD from the University of Chicago. He practiced law in Chicago, retired, and became a farmer. Like his father, my father was most content working with the soil.

My Time My mother told me that I had always wanted to attend the school since I had been a little boy, and she also told me that she never lied to me. Well, anyway, I entered Asheville School in the 4th form in 1948. At that time, we were living in Cazenovia, a pretty little town in upstate New York. As a freshman, I had attended the local high school. I was a pretty good student, starred in the senior play, boxed, and was a reasonably popular boy. When I entered Asheville School, all this changed after my first grading period and I went out for football. I failed 4th form algebra miserably, did poorly in Spanish, English, and just about everything else. Not only was I failing in schoolwork, I got hurt in the first football game, an injury that was not remedied until an operation in 1965. “Hop” Arbogast wrapped an ace bandage around my knee and told me to keep playing. “Quitters don’t go anywhere in this world.” I quit anyway. “Hop” Arbogast For Love of Country As was known by every boy in school, to school. My “patriotism” soon caught up dropping and subsequent loss of contents. the policy was, succinctly, “On The with me. After I graduated, the Korean War Asheville School surely taught me a lot of Wagon or On The Train.” You could, was in full swing. I was “activated” and things. and probably would, be asked to leave spent over two years in submarine service if you got caught drinking any type of in the Pacific – so much for a clandestine Prune Whip and Other Delights alcohol. Pucho (Harald) Hansen and I, beer or two. At the onset, I must state that the food we along with a couple of other classmates, ate during my three years at the school joined the Naval Reserve unit in Asheville Passing the Salt Southern Style was superior; it was tasty, plentiful, and in 1950. We were all 18, and didn’t need During meals, we were all seated at tables varied. There were a few predictables: parental approval. Joining the Reserve was at which a master, or if married, the master fish on Fridays, (“fish and Peck” with Mr. motivated, not so much by patriotism, as it and his wife presided. This arrangement Peck in the study hall) and periodically was the desire to get to town at night and was changed every three weeks or so. I prune whip. The campus wisdom said that drink a beer on the way home. One of the was assigned to the Copenhaver table. periodically the dietitian worried about hazards, of course, was getting caught. One Mrs. Copenhaver asked me to pass the our lower digestive tracts, and prune whip night, upon returning in a taxi, I spotted salt. I took the shaker and tried to hand was the remedy. Secondly, it was bantered the “Green Hornet,” an Oldsmobile owned it to her. She angrily tapped the table in that potassium nitrate (saltpeter) was by William Hutchins, dean of the school. the space between us. I was instructed secretly added to our food, especially soup, Mr. Hutchins lived in an apartment on the that the proper way to pass the salt was to help suppress the unspeakable urges of first floor of Lawrence Hall and parked to move it close to the person requesting the teenaged male. To prove the point, you his car in a garage beneath the building. I it, and she would retrieve it - none of this would hear, “I’ll bet you didn’t see any of spotted the car as he made his way from “hand-to-hand” transfer stuff. Years later the masters eating the soup.” Subsequent his garage toward the main roadway. Not I found out the origin of this tradition. research has shown there is absolutely no wanting to be interrogated upon leaving Salt was originally served in small dishes, correlation between potassium nitrate and the taxi, we told the driver to return to salt cellars, not shakers; it was so valuable, amatory propensity. But who believes in Asheville without stopping. Luckily, Mr. especially during the Civil War, which science? Campus wisdom reigned, and we Hutchins wasn’t following us because he Uncle Will Lewis called “The Late Great all believed. turned west when we got to Patton Avenue. Unpleasantness,” that passing the dish The taxi made a U-turn, and we returned hand-to-hand might cause an accidental Achievement • Spring 2014 53 Smoking Is Drama One was allowed to smoke upon reaching 18, being at least a 5th former, and having Campus Snow Images a parent’s permission. Smoking was permitted in the senior common-room, on Lawrence Hall porch, or - for 6th formers - in the senior bowl. (I think the bowl has ceased to exist.) But smoking was far more than an upperclassman’s right. It involved a lot more: the brand of cigarettes, the type of pipe tobacco, the brand and type of pipe, cigarette holders (with and without filters), lighters (Ronson or Dunhill preferred), cigarette cases and tobacco pouches. But most important - the drama of “lighting up.” Edgar Daniels smoked Craven A’s; they were expensive, imported, and best of all, sophisticated! I smoked Kools because I could hardly stand the taste of regular un-mentholated smoke, and would try to suck a lot of air along with the tobacco smoke so I didn’t end up coughing. One did not just take a cigarette from the pack and place it in his mouth, heavens no! One had to tap the cylinder lightly on the cigarette case or lighter to make sure the tobacco was tamped properly, as Clark Gable - or was it Cary Grant? - did to perfection, then place it in the mouth, light the Ronson, touch the cigarette to the flame, head bent slightly, so the camera angle is just right, suck in, and exhale a cloud of smoke with a look of Snow images captured by senior Steve Tubnonghee 2014. Steve won first place in a satisfaction. Every movie star smoked. The student/faculty snow photo contest on Asheville School’s Facebook page. President of the United States smoked, and even Mr. Fall and Mr. Hutchins smoked. Smoking was sophisticated - a rite of passage to being grownup.

In Conclusion Probably no three years in my life have influenced me more than the three years I spent “growing up” at Asheville School. I think I learned more during those years about life and about myself than at almost any other time. The lessons learned were often painful; I also remember, with humor and affection, incidents, boys and masters, but more importantly, I remember I learned about “how to learn.” I was a poor-to-mediocre student at Asheville, but I sailed through military service schools, Cornell, multiple technical computer classes, and advanced studies at George Washington University; I credit Asheville in no small part with facilitating these accomplishments.

54 Achievement • Spring 2014 School Wins CASE III Drama And Dance Performances in 2014 Grand Award for App

By Sheila Steelman Associate Director of Communications

Asheville School’s mobile app received top honors in “Best Practices in Marketing and Communication” from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) on February 18.

The app received a Grand Award in the category of mobile app, the top award given by CASE. Loyola University-New Orleans received an Award of Excellence in the same category. Colleges, universities, and independent schools all compete across the Southeast for these annual awards. Asheville School was one of only two independent schools to receive a During the Winter Dance recital, our students created some dance numbers about Grand Award this year in any of the 68 Asheville School titled Campus Life Snapshots. categories.

Perhaps even more impressive is the fact that Asheville School’s Director of Com- munications Bob Williams and Technol- ogy Coordinator Charles Long developed the app in house.

“We’re appreciative of the recognition, as this app was one of the most ambitious projects either of us has accomplished in our 10-plus years at Asheville School,” Williams says. “It’s an honor any time we can compete with communications offices at colleges and universities that have much greater resources.”

The award-winning app shows how Ashe- ville School strives to provide the best and most convenient forms of communication to our extended community – including families of students, prospective families, alumni, and friends of the school.

The Asheville School app features news articles, photo galleries, videos, calendar events, a virtual tour, and more! It also makes it easy to share what’s going on at Asheville School on various social media networks. Visit the App Store or go to www.ashevilleschool.org/app to download the app today. Students performed a modern version of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night during the 2014 Winter Play.

Achievement • Spring 2014 55 The Phantom Bell Ringer of Asheville School By Ray Magyar 1965 at breakfast, lots of talking and laughing midnight. The chapel bell rang, although about the bell ringing dominated conver- for a shorter time than before. The weather was growing warmer and sation. It even brought some chuckles and final exams were fast approaching in the smiles to the Headmaster and a few other At breakfast the next morning, the dining spring of 1962. The academic year had faculty – but nothing more. It was just a hall was abuzz about the daring and sly flown by, and the pressure and tension of typical high school prank. spirit. Amazement and wonder coursed studying for finals was on every student’s through the student body and the fac- mind. Classes demanded everyone’s at- Thinking the wile was over, everyone ulty: How did the Phantom slip past Mr. tention: every note on the blackboards resumed normal school routines and the Crutchfield? However, the mystery was about chapters to be emphasized and math incident was soon forgotten. But in the fol- solved after a close inspection of the chapel and science problems to be mastered was lowing week, the notes persisted and again that morning. An additional rope had been copied. they warned that The Phantom Bell Ringer tied to the bell-ringing lever on the roof would strike again on Saturday at mid- of the chapel, and the spare rope thrown One day upon arriving in class, we noticed night. While nearly everyone laughingly over the outside of the chapel wall into that the pull-down shades of the black- dismissed the warning and continued with the vines and bushes, where both the rope boards were drawn. Raising the shades school work, some students stayed awake and the Phantom were invisible. Despite revealed a mysterious note written on the late, peering out their dormitory windows embarrassment to the faculty, it was fun to board in almost every classroom: “Beware toward the chapel, awaiting the Phantom’s talk and laugh about as the entire school of the Phantom Bell Ringer!” Besides promised strike; at midnight the chapel community surmised who the Phantom maybe a quick smile, the note did little to bell rang again - as predicted. The ring- Bell Ringer might be and could only ad- pique the expectancy of anyone, student or ing prompted some laughs and a little mire his cleverness. faculty. Teachers erased the peculiar mes- applause from the dormitory windows. sage and classes continued as normal. However, the Headmaster and faculty Much to everyone’s amazement, the insin- were no longer amused by this annoying uating notes continued the following week, However, the next day, and the next few distraction. indicating that the Phantom would strike days that followed, the same notes reap- yet again. Before the date of the strike was peared and quickly disappeared under The next day after lunch, Headmaster announced, word was out that the faculty erasers. Few people made few comments. David Fall announced that whoever was “guaranteed” it would not happen. This After all, spring-term classes were halfway responsible for the joke was on notice: the time, Pop Hollandsworth, known to be through, exams were approaching, and mischief would not be tolerated again. Yet, one of the sternest disciplinarians at the more serious matters demanded everyone’s the notes again appeared on blackboards school, was organizing with two other fac- attention. But on Saturday, the notes were that week, announcing the date of the ulty members a scheme that would abort different. They read, “The Phantom Bell next tolling. This time, one of the younger the threatened strike. Ringer Will Strike Tonight at Midnight!” faculty members, Bill Crutchfield, waited Well, here was needed and amusing comic near the bell rope in the chapel to ensure When the Phantom chalked the date of the relief to be considered, but the notes didn’t that the trick would not occur. The chapel next episode, anxious exhilaration at the even bring a remark in the Headmaster’s bell rope passed through an aperture in school reached a new height. Everyone was daily lunch announcements. Nevertheless, the roof into an area behind the balcony even watching the classrooms to try to see some curiosity grew within a few students. pews. Surely no one could pull on the rope who was writing the warnings. Virtually to ring the bell without being seen by the every student was suspect at some point, Late that night of the Phantom’s warning, master. and mention was even made of some everyone was quietly asleep in the dormi- suspicious faculty members. The school tories of Anderson and Lawrence halls, Even though everyone knew the ongo- janitor and maintenance crews were added when - true to the notes on the black- ing trick would end that night with Mr. to the list. When the next “strike date” ar- boards - the chapel bell started pealing, Crutchfield standing guard at the bell rived, the entire school believed it would waking up almost everyone; after a few rope, a few students stayed up waiting in be the final attempted strike. minutes, the noise stopped. The next day anticipation. Much to everyone’s shock 56 Achievement • Spring 2014 and surprise, the Phantom struck again at After dinner, Pop posted a faculty mem- the windows. Finally, as students thrilled Phantom had accomplished a hilarious ber inside the chapel at the bell rope and with anxious delight, midnight struck. and very clever prank. one at each door to the chapel. Another Nothing! It was quiet all around campus would walk up and down in front of each with plenty of “I told you so’s” and other The Phantom Bell Ringer never did strike dormitory keeping watch. Wagers were laid comments exchanged. again, but the stir and commotion he and bets made as to whether the Phantom caused among the entire school for several would really strike as promised. The stu- But a few seconds later, a distant bell began otherwise tense weeks was hilarious and dents at each dormitory were wide awake clanging without stopping. Everyone could memorable. He provided relaxing comic at midnight eager to see what, if anything, hear it - the Victory Bell on the wheeled relief to the pressures of the approach- would happen. Excitement mounted as cart down at the football field! The dorms ing exams. As to the culprit, he was never midnight drew near. Students on the far were screaming with raucous laughter as discovered nor has anyone ever admitted side of the dorms sneaked across the hall chagrined faculty had to admit defeat. The to being the Phantom Bell Ringer of 1962. into the chapel-side rooms to watch from Achievement • Spring 2014 57 Exceptional Activity Supports Student’s Pursuit of Pro Cycling

By Sheila Steelman Associate Director of Communications

Senior Bruce Hall, Nassau, Bahamas, has taken what is a hobby for some and dedicated himself to being the best he can be, with goals of becoming a professional cyclist.

Hall transitioned from riding bikes for fun to riding bikes with a passion five years ago when he competed in his first race in the Bahamas on what he described as a races in the States because there’s a larger cycling – with three of the top cycling “clunky, not-so-fast bike.” He moved on cycling scene, and he can gain experience colleges less than an hour away. In the to local club races and realized he really with different types of biking. With the fall, Hall will attend Furman University enjoyed cycling. “I figured out I really liked variety of biking he has already tried, Hall in Greenville, SC, where he will race for the good pain, the speed, and the adrena- has a clear focus on what it is he wants to the cycling team. Furman is one of five line rush that comes with it,” Hall says. pursue in the future. colleges recognized by USA Cycling for its Emerging Varsity Team. Hall has taken advantage of the exception- “I’m more passionate about cyclocross. I al afternoon activity opportunity by creat- like to put on a show with the obstacles on “Bruce has limitless potential and I’m ex- ing his individualized cycling program. He the course,” Hall says. “At the end of this cited he’s going to have the opportunity to participated in cyclocross in the winter and season, because I’ve done so well in my race in college as Furman builds its cycling is pursuing road cycling this spring. category, I will move from Cat4 to Cat3. program,” Smith says. Even though Hall I’m looking forward to more competition. hasn’t graduated from Asheville School yet, Hall has two bikes — a specialized Crux The plan is always to do the best you can – he already has his sights set on his cycling cyclocross bike and a Giant TCR compos- but keep moving up to more difficult levels goals for college and beyond. ite full carbon road bike — that allow him to get better and advance to a professional to compete in both amateur and profes- level. If you just win without moving up, “I hope that college will allow me to be sional level races. you’ll never progress.” seen by coaches and team directors. I want to compete and succeed on the national Hall’s family organizes an annual cancer Admission Director John Smith, a cycling level,” Hall says. awareness fundraiser called “Ride for enthusiast and Hall’s faculty sponsor, cre- Hope” in the Bahamas. Cyclists complete ates the cycling workouts, takes Hall to all Hall credits his uncles Steve and Mark the Century Ride by compiling 100 miles. of his races, and usually competes in the Holowesko with giving him his first bike According to the foundation’s website, the races as well. Smith acknowledges what a and showing him the ins and outs of group has raised nearly $1,700,000 since its challenging sport cycling can be and com- cycling. Mark’s company, Holowesko Part- inception in 2006 (rideforhopebahamas. mends Hall on his accomplishments. ners, sponsors Garmin Sharp Barracuda, com). a large international professional cycling “His workouts range from long, slow rides team. Mark’s connection with this team “For the past three years, I’ve done the lasting 60-90 minutes to high inten- had a major impact on Hall’s interest in Century Ride with my family,” Hall says. sity short workouts involving cyclocross pursuing cycling as more than a hobby. “It takes six and a half hours.” specific drills,” Smith says. “It’s a big deal that he’s done what he’s done and had the “It’s what led me to create this drive for Even though he began cycling in the results he’s had.” myself to get to the professional level,” he Bahamas, Hall says he participates in more says. According to Smith, the Southeast is 58 Achievement • Spring 2014 the fastest growing area for colleges and Asheville School Students Win 11 Scholastic Art Awards

By Sheila Steelman Associate Director of Communications

Four Asheville School students recently received 11 awards in the 2014 Western North Carolina Regional Scholastic Art Awards held at the Asheville Art Mu- seum, where their works were on display throughout February.

The Western North Carolina Regional Scholastic Art Awards is a juried competition, which showcases outstanding visual arts created by middle and high school students in grades 7-12 from Western North Carolina.

“We submitted only 17 pieces and won 11 awards. It’s a big achievement compared to past years,” said art teacher Claire Smith. “Our gold award winners will be judged Scholastic Art Award Winners pictured from left to right: Sophia Curtis 2015, Sonja Erchak on a national level.” 2014, Perla Haney-Jardine 2015, and Margaret Anne Munday 2014. Four Asheville School students were recognized with awards, and three received top Two Seniors Advance as Finalists awards in the competition. Margaret Anne Munday (Hilton Head, SC) received two for National Merit Scholarship Gold Key Awards, and a Silver Key Award. From Staff Reports Sonja Erchak (Asheville, NC) received two Gold Key Awards and three Silver Key Based on preliminary scores from national Awards, and Sophia Curtis (Asheville, NC) testing on the PSAT, Asheville School received one Gold Key Award and one seniors Jack Gregory and Claire Hansen, Honorable Mention. Perla Haney-Jardine both from Asheville, have advanced to the (Asheville, NC) received Honorable Men- finalist round in the 2014 National Merit tion for her work. Scholarship Program.

“Art is something I do for myself, but it’s Jack Gregory 2014 and Claire Hansen 2014 According to the National Merit Scholar- nice to know that other people appreciate ship website, approximately 1.5 million payment National Merit Scholarships that it,” said Perla Haney-Jardine who considers students meet the participation require- will be awarded on a state representational ink her favorite medium. “I’ve been taking ments. Of those students, about 16,000 basis. In addition, about 200 colleges and art classes since I was four years old. This is candidates were notified earlier in Sep- universities are expected to finance 4,800 my first Scholastic Award.” tember that they qualified as a semifinalist; Merit Scholarship awards for finalists who will attend the sponsor institution. “Scholastic is the only organization that more than 15,000 finalists will compete for These awards are renewable for up to four recognizes young artists nationally,” Smith approximately 8,300 scholarships.(www. years of undergraduate study. Approxi- said. The nonprofit organization’s legacy nationalmerit.org). mately 240 corporations and businesses dates back to 1923 with a noteworthy will provide over 1,000 Merit Scholarship roster of past winners including Andy Three types of National Merit Scholarships awards for finalists who meet their speci- Warhol, Sylvia Plath, Truman Capote, will be offered in the spring of 2014. Every fied criteria. Richard Avedon, Robert Redford and Joyce finalist will compete for $2,500 single Achievement • Spring 2014 59 Carol Oates. Moon Shots and Have Nots — School Explores Science and Civil Rights During January Event

From Staff Reports

Rockets, moon shots Spend it on the have nots

—Marvin Gaye, “Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)” (1971)

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s views on science—including his assertion that humankind’s moral and spiritual progress Hip-Hop/Spoken Word Artist and Asheville School Alumnus Edward “Amen Ra” lags behind our scientific and technologi- Henderson 2004 shared an original poem written for the students during cal progress—offer a starting point for an his Civil Rights Day workshop in January. exploration of science and civil rights. such scientific and technological develop- more aware and will be inspired to action In his 1963 sermon “The Man Who Was ments? What can we learn from historical and to further their learning.” a Fool,” King wrote, “Our scientific power events that illuminate the ethical challeng- Biomedical engineer and Medtronic has outrun our spiritual power. We have es conjured by scientific advances? principal specialist Cathy Condie, Director guided missiles and misguided men.” Asheville School Humanities teacher Jim of Personalized Medicine and Pharma- Elsewhere, the civil rights leader (and Gardner organized interdisciplinary talks, cogenomics at Mission Heath Dr. Lynn Baptist preacher) warned against a naïve films, workshops, and activities to push Dressler, and Director of the NAACP’s polarizing of science and religion. Asheville School students to consider the Climate Justice Initiative Jacqueline Patter- tough questions implicit in such topics as son led the first convocation in Asheville In “A Tough Mind and a Tender Heart,” climate justice, equitable distribution of School’s Graham Theater. UNC-Asheville he defined the symbiotic roles of the two resources, medical ethics, and eugenics. physics professor Michael Ruiz discussed realms: “Science investigates; religion jazz and civil rights during the second interprets. Science gives man knowledge “The Science and Civil Rights topic is convocation. which is power; religion gives man wisdom important for students to study because which is control. Science deals mainly with not studying it is injustice-by-default: “The topic and the content of the topic facts; religion deals mainly with values. unawareness of issues such as eugen- is so important for students and faculty The two are not rivals. They are comple- ics, surveillance, genetic ownership, and to address and study, given the context mentary.” climate justice could result in our uninten- of what’s happening politically, and the tionally furthering injustice,” Gardner said. historical context and the development of With King’s words providing a touchstone, “ We don’t want our students to be not-so- science and technology,” Gardner said. “It’s Asheville School explored ethical issues innocent bystanders but to be conscious central to humanities and discussing what that emerge in the intersection of science and aware agents of change. To ignore such it means to be human.” and human rights during a two-day event topics would be a disservice to the legacy The event was part of a series of programs for students and faculty members on Janu- of Martin Luther King, Jr. and others who celebrating the school’s newly remod- ary 17 and 18. have fought for civil rights.” eled science classrooms in the recently How do King’s Cold War-era, Space Age Workshop topics included civil rights for dedicated Vandergrift Science Center. For admonitions apply to a Digital Age, in people with disabilities, the science of several years, Asheville School has present- which we can view images from the surface morality, Black Enlightenment, genetically ed a Civil Rights curriculum in January; of Mars? How do we ensure that our moral modified organisms, and many others. previous program topics have included the compass improves and updates alongside Holocaust, School Integration in Asheville, “I’m excited about the range of topics,” and Songs of Freedom. 60 Achievement • Spring 2014 Gardner said. “We hope students become and it teaches them persistence, persever- ance, and attention to detail. The process of debugging is valuable.”

Students enrolled in Speier’s class have also come to realize the value of this education. Senior Diana Song of China said she took the course because she wants to know more about programming to see if she might pursue the subject in college.

“It’s technology – everyone needs to know about it, and especially those like me who don’t have any experience with programming,” Song said.

Senior Steve Tubnonghee of Thailand is studying at Asheville School because of a Joe Speier (right) talks to Daniel Do 2014 about computer science. Speier says teaching scholarship to study computer science. He computer science to Asheville School students will benefit them long after they graduate. echoes Song’s sentiments, saying, “I’ve nev- Asheville School’s New Computer Science er done programming before. I took this course to prepare myself for college. It’s the Courses Teach Students 21st Century Skills 21st century and technology is growing fast. Technology is a major part of our daily life. By Sheila Steelman teaching computer programming, a skill If we know more, we can change the way Associate Director of Communications he deems imperative for young people and people think about technology.” the future of America. Only 10 percent of schools in the U.S. In the first semester of the year, students “Asheville School students, many of whom teach students how to code, and 33 of 50 created apps for compound and continu- will become leaders, need to understand states do not count computer-program- ous interest, and another that multiplies programming to be effective,” Speier said. ming courses towards math or science high two binomials. These working programs “Every math department should offer school graduation requirements — despite are built into the student’s website and programming. I want it to be an integral the fact that computer programming serve as a solid foundation for the more part of the math curriculum, and not just jobs are growing at twice the rate of the advanced programming of the spring for the most advanced students.” national average (code.org). semester.

Facebook co-founder and CEO Mark Speier began the course by teaching “We will tackle a series of programs that Zuckerberg said, “When I think about students how to program their calculators control visual animations. We’ll do physics what we’re going to be teaching in schools (Texas Instruments 83-Plus and 84-Plus). simulations – such as a collision chamber five to 10 years from now, I definitely think They progressed to JavaScript, the most where molecules are bouncing around. that computer science, or at least basic widely used programming language for Trigonometry, calculus, parametric equa- programming, is going to be as important website development. tions, Cartesian coordinates, vectors, and a skill as being able to do basic reading and “They don’t need to know CSS or HTML Newton’s laws of motion will all come in writing. I think we’re going to look back for programming, but it helps with to play,” Speier said. and wonder why it took us so long to get JavaScript. What they’re learning is state- to that point” (From YouTube “Code – the of-the-art. Students could go out and get a As computer programming becomes new literacy”). job as a web developer after this course.” embedded into the main curriculum in schools across the nation and continues In hopes of not having to look back, as Speier adds this marketable job skill will to expand the global job market, Asheville Zuckerberg warns, educators at Asheville help Asheville School students long after School hopes to have opened doors of School are looking ahead to create a cur- they graduate: “It provides them with criti- opportunity for students. riculum that will best serve the students. cal thinking skills and mental discipline, Math teacher Joe Speier is excited to be Achievement • Spring 2014 61 In memoriam: John J. Compton 1945 January 18, 2014

master’s and doctorate in Philosophy from John Compton, of Nashville, TN, Yale University. He spent 46 years teaching passed away on January 18, 2014. He was Philosophy at Vanderbilt, serving as De- awarded Ashe- partment Chair during some of that time. ville School’s During his career, John was chair and sec- Award of Merit retary of the Faculty Council and chair of in 1984, and we various university committees, including were honored to Religious Affairs, Alumni Education, and have John speak Teaching and Learning; and served on nu- to some of our merous others, including the Tenure and Humanities class- Promotions Committee. He won many es in 2005. John teaching awards, including the Danforth, entered Ashe- Sarratt, Alumni and Peabody awards, as ville School in well as the Chancellor’s Cup. During the Fifth Form Nashville’s tumultuous early 1960s, he from Chicago, was a determined civil rights activist, and IL. He played varsity football, was a senior he continued to champion social justice prefect, loved acting and photography, and environmental causes throughout his and graduated as valedictorian. The son life. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, of a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, John Marjorie, two daughters, and a son. earned his bachelor’s degree in Mathemat- ics from the College of Wooster and his

In memoriam: John L. Lantzius 1949 February 10, 2014 School (CT). He studied landscape architecture at NC State University, then served John Lantzius, a resident of Fletcher, NC, in the U.S. Army, earned a B.S. in Land- and Vancouver, Canada, died February 10, scape Architecture from UC-Berkeley, and 2014, at his home received a master’s degree from Harvard’s in Vancouver. He Graduate School of Design. In 1961, he was a key figure founded a prominent architecture firm in in the revitaliza- Vancouver, John Lantzius and Associates, tion of down- and among his many projects contributed town Asheville to Habitat at Montreal’s Expo 67. In 1968, in the 1970s and he established the landscape architecture velopment efforts. We are grateful to John 1980s. Born in program at Ball State University. After a for his many contributions to Asheville Vancouver, John similar venture in Vancouver, in the 1970s School, including pro bono landscape grew up in Ashe- John acquired and restored several historic design services for our Centennial celebra- ville and attended properties in neglected areas of Asheville, tion, and the suggestion in his obituary of Asheville School particularly along Lexington Avenue, gifts to Asheville School in lieu of flow- for five years planted numerous trees, and helped small ers. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, before finishing high school at Salisbury businesses get established. He received Annette, a sister, three daughters, and four several awards from the city and business/ 62 Achievement • Spring 2014 grandchildren. civic groups for his preservation and de- In memoriam: Robert S. Webb, Jr. 1949 September 23, 2013

Chic Webb, a lifelong resident of Ashe- ville, passed away September 23, 2013, at age 84. He had been diagnosed with ALS in February of last year. Chic entered Ashe- ville School in the Second Form; he was active in school publica- tions and other activities; he was on the varsity track, basketball and football (captain ’49) teams; he was a senior prefect; and he was class president in 1948 and 1949. Chic attended nonprofit Asheville Design Center and family for suggesting in his obituary that UNC Chapel Hill, where he captained member of the board of visitors of his be- gifts in his memory be made to Asheville the track team, participated in Naval loved UNC Chapel Hill. Chic was a mem- School. ROTC, and found the love of his life, Jean ber of Asheville School’s Tower Society Williamson. After UNC, Chic returned with over 30 consecutive years of giving, Survivors include his wife, Jean; their four to Asheville and continued the fam- and he was a member of the Wilbert Peck children, Julia Webb Gaskin, Stan Webb, ily business, Webb Insurance. As a boss, Society of those who have remembered Laura Webb, and Asheville School alumnus he valued his employees as an extended Asheville School in their estate plan- John Webb 1981; and six grandchildren. family. He often said he might not be the ning. We are also grateful to Chic and his most aggressive salesman in the world, but he took pride in his honesty and the fact that people trusted him. Chic was also an avid outdoorsman and fly fisherman. The love of the woods and water was a family tradition begun by his grandfather, Charles A. Webb, who was instrumental in the formation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Chic supported and gave back to the community in many ways. He was president of the Asheville Jaycees and the Indepen- dent Insurance Agents of North Carolina, served as an elder at the First Presbyterian Church, board member with the Better Business Bureau, youth adviser to Trout Unlimited, longtime member of the Downtown Rotary Club, adviser to the Achievement • Spring 2014 63 MemoriamIn

Samuel L. Perry 1936 his wife of 14 years, Carol, two chil- Clyde Eagleton, Jr. 1944 Sam Perry, of Blowing Rock, NC, dren, two grandchildren, and four Clyde Eagleton, of Eastsound, WA, and Tampa, FL, passed away on great-grandchildren. passed away March 23, 2012. He Jan. 14, 2013. He entered Asheville entered Asheville School in the School in 1932 from North Shore Mr. John H. Gribbin 1938 Fifth Form from Washington, DC, Country Day School (IL) and at- John Gribbin, a resident of Gaines- and was active in school publica- tended for one year before finishing ville, FL, passed away November 10, tions, Boy Scouts, debate, drama, at Kent School (CT). Sam’s brother, 2012. He entered Asheville School and varsity track. Clyde’s father John 1935, also attended Asheville in the Fourth Form from Asheville was an internationally known law School. Sam earned a bachelor’s High School and was very active professor, a Rhodes Scholar who degree in geology from the Univer- with The Ashnoca. After Asheville served in the State Department sity of Michigan in 1940 and served School, John earned a bachelor’s during WWII and taught law at in the U.S. Navy with distinction on degree in Chemistry from UNC, New York University for 33 years. various ships in the South Pacific Bachelor and Master of Library After Asheville School, Clyde be- during World War II. He left service Science degrees from UC-Berkeley, gan at Harvard University before as a lieutenant commander, then and a PhD in Library Science from serving in the Army at the end of lived and worked in Des Moines, the University of Chicago. He WWII. After the war, he returned IA, until 1962, when he purchased also served in the Army during to Harvard and earned a bachelor’s a Phillips 66 distributorship in WWII. John worked at the Univer- degree in 1949. He also did gradu- Ft. Myers, FL, where he lived for sity of Missouri, the University of ate work at the universities of Colo- the next 50 years. He also served Texas, and Rice University, before rado and Iowa. He married Beatrice as Board Chairman of Southwest moving to Washington, DC, as Li- Forbes in 1952 and spent several Florida Banks, the holding com- brarian of the National Academy of years traveling and writing. In the pany for the First National Bank Science and the National Research late 1950s, Clyde owned Horizon of Ft. Myers. A skilled and avid Council. From 1961 to 1966, he Studios Photographs in Sarasota, athlete, Sam lettered in squash in was Associate University Librarian FL, before moving to Berkeley, CA. college, played competitive tourna- at UNC, then Director of Libraries He left California in the early 1990s ment tennis and had weekly golf for Tulane University and for the and lived the remainder of his life games for many years with friends University of Missouri at Colum- in Eastsound, WA, with his second and family. He was also an excel- bia, where he worked until his wife, Dorothy, who survives him. lent bridge player with a substantial retirement in 1982. John married number of master points. Sam was another librarian, Lenore Sipes, to pre-deceased by his first wife of 51 whom he was married for 59 years years, Marion. Survivors include before her passing in 2010. 64 Achievement • Spring 2014 Don C. Dangler 1945 IL, from 1947 to 1975, then moved oper in the Warrenton and Cul- Don Dangler, a resident of Waite to Tryon, NC, and purchased Blue peper (VA) areas since 1973. He is Hill, OH, for the past 43 years, Ridge Weavers. He retired in 2000. survived by his loving life partner, passed away November 26, Mr. Richardson was an avid wood- Marie Shirley Moore, and a brother. 2013. He entered Asheville School worker, designing and building the in the Third Form from Willough- sets at the Tryon Little Theater for Alan Moore 1960 by, OH. In addition to playing var- many years and made “Morris the Alan Moore, a resident of Paris, IL, sity football and soccer, he was very Horse” ornaments and toys. He was passed away May 12, 2012. Born in involved with the Ashnoca. After preceded in death by his first wife, Indianapolis, he attended Asheville Asheville School, Don served as an Betty, in 1990; survivors include his School for his First and Second infantryman in the Army and was wife of 21 years, Ann; two children; Form years before finishing high stationed in the Philippines and two step-children; four grandchil- school at Kentucky Military Insti- Okinawa during occupation. He dren; and eight great-grandchil- tute. He earned a bachelor’s degree graduated from Ohio University dren. in Political Science and Account- with a B.S. in Education in 1951 ing from Indiana State University and taught history and English at Thomas M. Moore 1955 and was a veteran of the U.S. Air Eastlake Junior High School and Tom Moore, of Warrenton, National Guard. Alan worked in Eastlake North High School for 20 VA, passed away on January 1, sales in the flooring industry for years. Don was a huge Ohio State 2014. He entered Asheville School 11 years before returning to his sports fan and a model train en- in the Fifth Form from Burlington, hometown of Paris, IL, where thusiast because of his experience NC, and played varsity baseball, he spent the rest of his career at working on the railroad at a very football, and basketball (captain his family’s business--the former young age. He was a supporter of ‘55). After Asheville School, Tom Paris Manufacturing Company— girls’ basketball at Eastlake North earned a bachelor’s degree in Hu- of which he ultimately took over and Gilmour Academy, and of Class manities from Washington and Lee ownership. He was a charter mem- A baseball in Lake County. Survi- University, where he was the only ber, past president, former District vors include his wife of 43 years, one in his class to letter in three Lieutenant Governor, and George Jane, and two nieces. sports - baseball, basketball and Hixson Fellow Award recipient football. He also graduated from of the former Kiwanis Early Ris- Robert R. Richardson Jr. 1947 Virginia Theological Seminary in ers of Paris; a member of Prairie Bob Richardson, of Columbus, Alexandria, VA, with a master’s Lodge #77 Ancient Free & Accepted NC, passed away on September degree in Divinity in 1971. From Masons, Ansar Shrine Temple, and 26, 2013. His uncle (James ’24) 1969 to 1972, he was the assistant Edgar County Shrine Club. Alan and brother (Charles ’41) were to the rector at St. James Episcopal served on the City of Paris Park also Asheville School alumni. He Church in Warrenton, VA, and had Board for a number of years, and was born in New Orleans, LA, and the unique and fulfilling experience he was a past Board of Directors his family was living in Glendale, of living with 40 parish families member and past president of the OH, when he enrolled at Ashe- during this period of time. He par- Paris Area Chamber of Commerce. ville School in the Second Form in ticipated as a layreader and served He enjoyed sports and was a loyal 1941. Bob left in 1944 to join the in other capacities from 1973 to ISU Sycamores Basketball fan. He Navy during WWII, serving on a 2008. He was honorably discharged is survived by his wife of 35 years, troop transport in the European from the U. S. Army Reserve as Bernita, two step-daughters, and Theater. He worked for the Rich- an officer in the Infantry and had four step-grandchildren. ardson Company in Melrose Park, worked as a realtor and land devel- Achievement • Spring 2014 65 Philip R. Broyhill 1974 Richard A. Coker Jr. 1977 Richard E. Gettys Jr. 1979 Phil Broyhill, a long-time resident Richard Coker passed away peace- Rick Gettys, of Hartsville, SC, of the Boston area who recently fully on December 9, 2013, at his passed away January 8, 2014, at his moved back to North Carolina, home in Maggie Valley. He entered home, following years of declining passed away March 1, 2014. Born Asheville School in the Fifth Form health. Known as “Crook” while at in Lenoir, NC, Phil entered Ashe- from Maggie Valley and played Asheville School, he entered Ashe- ville School in the Fourth Form; varsity football and soccer, wrote ville School in the Sixth Form and he was on the varsity cross country for The Review, was a member of ran varsity cross country. He earned and soccer teams, sang in choir all the Photography Club, and was a B.S. in Agricultural Engineering three years, wrote for The Ashnoca, very active in Mountaineering. His from Clemson, a B.S. in Computer participated in drama, and was very sister Judy graduated in 1978, and Science from Francis Marion, and active in mountaineering. Phil was his daughter, Melinda, graduated in did graduate studies in computer related in varying degrees to a good 2013. Other alumni in his family programming at the University of number of others in the Asheville include his uncle, Tom Alexan- South Carolina. He is survived by School family, including the late der, Jr. 1949, and cousins Ames his mother and three sisters. Tom Broyhill ’61; Ron Bromley Alexander 1980 and Alex Aumen and family, through Ron’s late wife 1987. Richard was an alumnus of Dell Broyhill Bromley; and Johnny Appalachian State University, where Stevens ’73 and his children. After he received a B.A. in Business Man- Asheville School, Phil attended agement. He was the sole owner of Duke University and Wake Forest Coker Construction and was one University, and he graduated from of many co-owners and operators Bentley University in Waltham, of the family business, Cataloochee MA. He also completed rigorous Ranch, which was founded in wilderness training in his youth 1933 by his grandparents. He was at the National Outdoor Leader- a member of the Maggie Valley ship School in Wyoming. Phil was United Methodist Church and was an accomplished, award-winning, an active board member of the and prolific artist who worked and Cataloochee Ranch and Southern exhibited in a number of studios Appalachian Highlands Conser- in the Boston area over the last 30 vancy. Richard is also a member of years. A deeply spiritual man who our Wilbert Peck Society. Survivors tried to see only good in everyone include his mother, daughter, and he met, Phil also volunteered as a two sisters. reader to the blind and completed certification as a peer counselor. Survivors include his parents, James T. and Louise R. Broyhill, two sib- lings, six nieces and nephews, and two great nephews.

66 Achievement • Spring 2014 New Soccer Camp Opens on Campus in August

“We are excited to announce our new- new Bermuda grass fields and our campus est site at Asheville School this summer,” are a perfect match.” says Clark Brisson, No. 1 Camps Regional Director. Each program is offered in six different levels: No. 1 Day Camp, No. 1 Striker Camp is appropriate for all Jr. Academy, Sr. Academy, the extended From Staff Reports field players, forwards and defenders, wish- College Prep program, Team Camp ing to hone their skills on both sides of the programs, and the Aspiring Pro Player Soccer players of all levels will have a ball in the one third of the field directly in program. variety of summer camp opportunities at front of the goal. Asheville School from August 3-7. Programs are offered for all boys and girls No. 1 Goalkeeper Camp exposes goalkeep- ages 7-18, starting with our No. 1 Day No. 1 Soccer Camps integrates two sepa- ers to technical and tactical elements of Camp Program (ages 7-10) and going rate and distinct programs – No. 1 Striker goalkeeping in match related decision through our coed Sr. Academy Residential Camp and No. 1 Goalkeeper Camp – into making trial and success situations with Program (ages 14-18). Come join over a vibrant, exciting, and educationally real field players. 75,000 satisfied campers with over 38 years sound “Go to Goal” soccer camp of continuous operation nationwide. For experience. “We are excited to host this quality pro- more information and to register, visit the gram on campus in August,” says Assistant website at www.no1soccercamps.com. Head of School John Thorsen 1987. “Our 360 Asheville School Road Asheville, NC 28806

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Important Upcoming Dates and Events March 25 Winston-Salem, NC April 9 Atlanta, GA April 25-27 Alumni Weekend 2014 May TBD Charleston, SC May TBD Cincinnati, OH May TBD Lexington, KY May TBD Raleigh, NC May 15-16 Spring Dance Performance May 30-31 Commencement 2014 August 23 Opening Day 2014 October 11 Girls’ Sports Day October 23-24 Fall Play Nobember 1 Christ School Weekend November 11 New York, NY

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