On Thursday, January 15, CCES Upper School students and faculty gathered in the Chapel of the Good Shepherd for the annual Epiphany Chapel service to celebrate the beginning of Epiphany season and the naming of our CCES Epiphany Scholar. This scholarship was established in 1991 and is advanced by the Rector of Christ Church Episcopal to honor a student who exemplifies a commitment to Christian values through worship, sensitivity, and outreach to others. The student should also exemplify a personal manifestation of love of God and God’s people in one’s daily life at school, at church, and within the community. This year’s Epiphany Scholar Award recipient is Hamilton Shew ’26.

Upper School Spanish Teacher Brad Greer introduced Hamilton, describing him as a  “student committed to his Christian beliefs and someone who exudes the joy and inner peace that I believe can only be manifested as a result of deep, genuine faith.” 

As Hamilton’s Spanish teacher, Señor Greer reflected on the impact he has had on the Cavalier community. Despite facing a series of major reconstructive surgeries that prevented him from participating in athletics for several years, Hamilton’s light and positivity have never wavered. Señor Greer fondly recalled Hamilton’s deep, contagious laugh - always paired with an infectious, ear-to-ear grin. He closed with a heartfelt charge: “From teacher to student, I want to say thank you for being a light for me and for others in a world that desperately needs it, and for reminding me not to stop looking for the good.”

Samuel Levy ’26, didn’t hesitate when asked to speak about his close friend, describing him as “one of the most genuine and kind people I know.” While Hamilton excels both academically and athletically, Samuel says his achievements never go to his head. Reflecting on advice his dad once gave him - to surround himself with people who are “what you see is what you get” - Samuel points to Hamilton as the perfect example. “He doesn’t hide behind a persona to appeal to others,” Samuel shared. “His kindness and thoughtfulness are completely genuine.”

Congratulations to Hamilton, our 2026 Epiphany Scholar! CCES is grateful for the light and positivity you have brought to this school community, and how you uplift everyone around you. 
 

Throughout the summer and fall semester, the CCES College Counseling team has been actively supporting students to navigate the college search and application journey. The College Counseling team, including Director of College Counseling, Linda Schulz, along with Associate Directors, Bartley Sides and Lindsey Waters, offered a wide range of resources from personalized advising, informative sessions, and ongoing support, to help students feel confident and prepared. Here’s a look back at the busy and exciting semester! 

For Seniors:

• 2 Essay Writing Workshops (June/July)
• 4 College Application Workshops (July/August)
• College Night for Seniors and Parents
• Paying For College meeting for Seniors and Juniors
• Various CavCircles focused on the college application process
• Apps and Snacks events for seniors (students are welcome to drop in, work on their applications, and enjoy a snack!)
• Numerous individual meetings guiding seniors through deadlines, testing strategies, brainstorming/editing essays, and submitting applications
• Handle with Care: Admission Decision Season (virtual presentation offering support for parents of seniors) 

For Juniors:

• College Night for Juniors and Parents
• Individual college planning meetings with Juniors starting in November
• Numerous CavCircles for Juniors focused on self-reflection and college planning

For Sophomores: 

• Students updated their activities résumé with additional extracurricular activities and community service during CavCircle
• They participated in College Counselor Trivia and had the opportunity to get to know the counseling team
• They discussed admissions myths and common worries about the college process with their peers and had their questions answered live

The College Counseling team is also committed to giving our students direct access to universities. This fall, over 50 college and university admission representatives visited CCES to meet with students and share information about their schools. Our college counselors also serve on several college advisory boards – attending meetings at institutions such as Furman, Mercer, UT Knoxville, USC, and High Point. Additionally, they visited numerous colleges, including Kenyon, Belmont, Lipscomb, ETSU, and Clemson’s College of Business.

In addition to our regular programming, the College Counseling team participated in several events to stay connected with the broader college admissions community. Mrs. Waters attended the NACAC Annual Conference in Columbus, Ohio and where she connected with over 6,000 college admissions professionals and heard renowned author and researcher Brené Brown’s keynote speech.  Mrs. Schulz also co-chaired the Greenville County College Fair, an event that served over 2,500 students and Upstate families, providing an excellent opportunity to connect with a wide range of colleges. Finally, Mr. Sides was asked by the Association of College Counselors in Independent Schools (ACCIS) to help author a blog post about our office’s Instagram account (Follow them @ccescollegecounseling)!

While they take their work seriously, they also know how to have fun! For Halloween, they dressed up as Mother Nature, Sun, and Storms characters and handed out candy during lunch, spreading joy among the students.
As always, the College Counseling team at CCES has gone above and beyond this semester to support our students and families with workshops and individual guidance to fun and festive moments! 

Learn more about our College Counseling program here and follow them on Instagram here. 
 

This November, a group of Upper School students embarked on a journey to Augsburg, Germany as part of our exchange partnership with our partner school, Maria Stern. The adventure began as they traveled to Munich early on Saturday, November 15th. Students arrived in Augsburg the following morning, where host families greeted them warmly and helped them settle in. The rest of Sunday was spent taking it slow, getting comfortable, and beginning to form the connections that would shape the rest of the week.

On Monday and Tuesday, students dove right into a somewhat typical day at a German school. They shadowed their exchange partners, visited classes, and even got to experience the routines of their hosts - including morning commutes by bus or tram and noticeably shorter school days. Tuesday afternoon brought a special highlight: a walking tour of Augsburg, a 2,000-year-old city with layers of history and culture woven into every street.

Wednesday’s day trip to Munich offered even more sights to explore. Students visited the Frauenkirche, Marienplatz, and Nymphenburg Castle before enjoying some shopping time in the heart of the city. They also enjoyed a traditional Bavarian lunch including Schweinebraten with Sauerkraut, Käsespätzle, and the beloved Kaiserschmarrn, giving everyone a taste of local flavor.

Thursday was a public holiday, allowing host families and their guests to plan their own adventures, from relaxed outings to fun trips to the mall. On Friday, the group boarded a 160-mph bullet train for a full day in the medieval city of Nuremberg. There, they explored the walled old town, toured historic sites connected to the Nuremberg Trials, climbed up to the famous castle, and sampled regional favorites like original gingerbread and bratwurst. 

The weekend continued with more memorable experiences. On Saturday, students joined local fans to cheer FC Augsburg to a Bundesliga victory while Sunday was reserved for family time, with outings ranging from a trip to Legoland to visiting the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle built by King Ludwig II.

As the trip neared its end, students spent Monday back at school with their partners before heading out that evening to the opening of the Augsburger Christmas Market. The celebration featured local choirs, brass bands, and the iconic Angel Performance staged from the windows of City Hall. After the ceremony, students explored the market’s many booths, browsing holiday crafts and tasting festive local treats.

This year’s exchange trip to Augsburg was a wonderful reminder of the impact global education can have. As we celebrate the success of this year’s trip, we’re already looking ahead to welcoming students from Maria Stern at the end of January 2026!

There’s a special kind of magic that comes when holiday lights glow softly, ornaments catch the light just right, and a beloved tradition brings people together year after year. Bon Secours St. Francis’ Festival of Trees has been that kind of magic for four decades — a celebration of community, generosity, and Christmas wonder. This year, as it marks its 40th anniversary, the story feels more personal and more meaningful than ever.

At the heart of that story is Susannah Pazdan Hogg, CCES alumna from the Class of 2015. For her, the Festival is more than an event; it’s a family story, a connection to a grandmother she loved deeply, and a thread that ties together generations. Her grandmother, Mack Pazdan, was the very first chair of the Festival of Trees. What began as her vision — a small weekend gathering at the Duke Power Building in 1986 — has grown into one of Greenville’s most cherished holiday traditions, where beautifully decorated trees bring joy to the community and continue to support the programs of Bon Secours St. Francis Health System.

Susannah’s father, John Pazdan ’80, still remembers those early days vividly. “All the live trees were delivered to our house,” he recalls. “It was a family effort to get them downtown, set them up, and water them. My mother poured so much love into it. She would be so pleased to see how it’s grown, how this event brings people together every year. Having Susannah involved now feels like the Festival has come full circle — and it keeps her memory alive in the most beautiful way.”

Susannah’s connection to the Festival deepened at CCES. As a middle schooler, she made ornaments in Mr. Brent Roberts’s art class, learning not only the joy of creating something by hand but also the value of contributing to a community effort. Those early experiences planted a love for service and celebration that would follow her into adulthood.

Recently, Susannah took a new role at Bon Secours St. Francis, and she had no idea that one of her first major responsibilities would be overseeing the Festival of Trees. From my perspective, it was a joy to watch her in action; as families wandered through the hotel, marveling at each tree, Susannah’s face lit up. It was clear this wasn’t just a job — it’s her life: to love and serve the Greenville community, help raise funds for the programs at St. Francis, and honor every person she meets. At one point, a community member approached us and said they had seen Susannah on the news and were thrilled, declaring this year’s Festival the best one yet! The delight on her face in that moment said it all.

Now, as an alumna and member of the CCES Alumni Association Board, Susannah brings the school’s spirit full circle. Each year, CCES students, faculty, and staff help decorate the Festival trees, turning the process into a joyful, collaborative tradition. “It’s incredible to see students and volunteers come together,” Susannah shares. “Even Mr. Wes Clarke, Head of the Upper School, came on a Sunday to help get the trees ready. It’s not just about decorating, it’s about community and generosity.”

For Susannah, stepping into a leadership role for the Festival is both deeply personal and profoundly rewarding. “It means so much to me. I get to carry on my grandmother’s love for St. Francis. St. Francis was in her DNA, and now it’s in mine.”

The Festival of Trees has always been about more than fundraising. It’s about families pausing to admire each decorated tree, neighbors helping neighbors, and traditions that are remembered fondly and passed along. For Susannah, for John, and for the many CCES students, faculty, and volunteers who have contributed over the years, it is a living memory — one that sparkles brighter every December.

From handmade ornaments in middle school, to honoring a beloved grandmother’s vision, to shepherding a Greenville tradition with the support of her school and community, Susannah’s story is a reminder that legacies are not just inherited; they are lived, shared, and celebrated. And for John, seeing his daughter carry that torch is a joy he treasures deeply.

This year, as countless trees fill the Festival with light and warmth, the magic feels sweeter than ever — a quiet, glowing testament to family, community, CCES, and the enduring joy of Christmas in Greenville.

CCES had ten varsity teams in action this fall, with 30 student-athletes who were named All-Region and/or All-State in their respective sports. Congratulations to all!

Boys Cross Country (Region Champions, State Runner-Up) 
Region Coach of the Year: Charlie Woodward 
All-Region: Henry Bacon ’31, Ben Fulk ’26, Max Delfino ’29, Rowan Greer ’28
All-State: Henry Bacon ’31, Ben Fulk ’26, Max Delfino ’29

Girls Cross Country (State Runner-Up) 
All-Region: Kendall Foster ’27, Charlotte Shew ’29, Stella Pastore ’31 
All-State: Kendall Foster ’27, Charlotte Shew ’29

Football
All-Region: Judd Windham ’27, Michael Martin ’28, Jude Hall ’26, Rody Barnett ’26, Alex Drake ’27, Hayes Lyman ’27, Banks Horton ’27, Anthony Atkins ’26, Reid Hipp ’26 
All-State: Jude Hall '26, Rody Barnett '26, Anthony Atkins '26, Michael Martin '28

Girls Golf (Region Champions, 3rd Place State Finish)
Region Coach of the Year: Dan Wilkie
All-Region: Isabella Poore ’28, Lila Wills ’27 
All-State: Isabella Poore ’28, Lila Wills ’27

Swimming (Girls 3rd Place State Finish)
All-Region: Jason Shaw ’26, Grant Westgate ’30, Ike Thomason ’28, Youjin Pang ’29, Judd Windham ’27, Katherine Cramer ’31
All-State: Jason Shaw ’26, Katherine Kramer ’31

Girls Tennis (Region Champions, Upper State Champions, State Runner-Up)
Region Coach of the Year: Rae Sobocinski ’83
Region Player of the Year: Lexie Sobocinski ’26
All-Region Singles: Lexi Sobocinski ’26, Caroline Bruner ’27, Lydia Mahfood ’28, Saddler Fox ’27
All-Region Doubles: Elle Hawks ’29 & Karyston Davis ’28 
All-State: Lexi Sobocinski ’26, Caroline Bruner ’27

Volleyball
All-Region: Taylor Lyle ’30, Brooke Byxbee ’26

Note: Cheerleading and Field Hockey do not recognize All-Region and All-State honors. 

Congratulations to these CCES athletes, coaches, and teams for these honors and recognitions! Go Cavs!

Christ Church Episcopal School celebrated the successes of senior student-athlete, Jude Hall, during a signing ceremony on December 3. Family, teammates, coaches, and teachers gathered in the Hartness Performing Arts Center’s Rooke Theater, applauding as Jude committed to play football at the University of Arkansas. 

In her remarks, Director of Athletics, Molly Miller, reflected not only on Jude’s talent and character, but also his unwavering perseverance on a journey that has been full of highs, lows, and unexpected turns. She emphasized that as he made his commitment, no experience along the way was wasted, and all of it has led to this moment of gratitude, purpose, and excitement for what’s ahead.

Head Varsity Football Coach, Quin Hatfield, described Jude with two words: “big time.” He went on to describe Jude’s big time presence in his personality and stature but also in his playmaking ability and impact on the field. He noted Jude’s humble but competitive spirit, sharing that he can be counted on to show up, make big plays, and be a great teammate. Pointing to his performance during their last playoff game together, where Jude played over 130 snaps, scored 3 touchdowns, and set the school record for receiving yards in a single game, Coach Hatfield said, “He delivered for the Cavaliers on so many occasions and can’t wait to watch him do the same for the Razorbacks.” 

Congrats to Jude on all he's accomplished at CCES and the exciting opportunities ahead in his athletic career at the University of Arkansas. While he’ll soon be on a new team, he'll always be a Cavalier. Go Cavs!

See photos from the signing ceremony here.
 

Our Theater students delivered an outstanding performance at the South Carolina Theater Association Conference held at Clemson University. Their production Southern Belle Telephone—an original drama written by our theater teacher, Reed Halvorson—was named State Winner out of 20 shows, earning two perfect scores. Isabella Agnew and Addy Lyon were recognized as All Star Cast members, and Mr. Halvorson was awarded Best Director.

Additionally, our teams excelled in the Tech Olympics, placing 1st and 3rd, with several students also earning additional individual honors. In the Monologue category, Isabella Agnew placed 1st and Cameron Wilkie placed 3rd. Ben Brownlee was named a Musical Theater State Finalist.

Additionally, several students were cast in the conference’s 10-Minute Play Readings, performing in front of the entire SCTA delegation with excellence: Cameron Wilkie, Celina Brotherton, Addy Lyon, and Nicole Buah-Kwofie.

When you watch senior Rody Barnett compete - whether he’s anchoring the offensive line or dominating the heavyweight division in wrestling - you see the same thing his coaches recognized years ago: discipline, toughness, and a competitiveness that elevates everyone around him.

Rody joined CCES in sixth grade and jumped right into athletics, but football had been in his family long before he began playing. “My grandpa played in the NFL and my dad played in college,” he said. “My parents were a little timid at first because they didn’t want me to get hurt, but once I started on the offensive line, I loved it.”

Head Varsity Football Coach Quin Hatfield first met Rody in eighth grade and remembers a quiet kid with a strong presence. Since their first meeting, and especially in the last 18 months, Coach Hatfield has watched him transform, both physically and technically, into one of the most dominant linemen in the region. Now a senior captain, Rody starts at offensive guard and defensive tackle, holds all-region honors, and holds both the CCES deadlift record (700 lbs) and the bench press record (340 lbs).

For Rody, the best part of playing for the CCES varsity team is the brotherhood. “The community and the program are special, our team is super close,” he said. He also credits the coaching staff for shaping him both as an athlete and as a person. “The group of coaches we have is elite,” Rody shared. “They know so much about football, but they’re also really good at making us better men.” 

Rody also began wrestling in Middle School, sparked by classic sibling rivalry. “My little brother started wrestling before me,” he laughed. “I didn’t want him to grow up and beat me, so I started too.” What began as a way to best his little brother quickly became serious. As a freshman, Rody wrestled at 195 and claimed the JV State Championship. He became a heavyweight (285) wrestler by his junior year and has developed into one of the top competitors in the state - an All-State wrestler, team captain, and 2025 State Champion. 

Varsity Wrestling Coach Daniel Kimball also met Rody in eighth grade and saw potential immediately.  “My first impression was: he’s going to be a heavyweight one day,” Coach Kimball said. But Rody has grown into far more than just a successful wrestler; he’s become a leader. “Rody’s work ethic is unmatched. He encourages his teammates, pushes them, and promotes the sport to new kids. He’s a great ambassador for wrestling at CCES.” 

Together, football and wrestling have shaped Rody both on and off the field. Football taught him the importance of teamwork and knowing you can’t do everything alone. Wrestling strengthened his mindset, showing him that success requires mental toughness, perseverance, and belief in yourself. Competing at CCES has reinforced all of these lessons, teaching him to set goals, work hard, and carry himself with discipline - qualities he says have helped shape the person he is today.

With multiple college offers in both football and wrestling, Rody hopes to continue his athletic career at the next level. He’s considering studying engineering or athletic training, and hopes to one day coach part-time - inspired by the impact his coaches have had on him. “I want to pass on the same lessons and help the next generation become better young men and women,” he said.

From football fields to wrestling mats, Rody has carved out a legacy of excellence at CCES - one defined not by records or medals alone, but by the example he sets and the teammates he lifts along the way.

To support Rody and Cavalier Wrestling this season, check out their schedule here. 
 

For 13 years, Lily Thomas ’24 called CCES home — a place where her passion for the performing arts began and where her talent blossomed. Now, as a sophomore at Clemson University, Lily is embracing an exciting new chapter that recently took her from the classroom to the movie set.

This summer, Lily had the opportunity of a lifetime when she starred in Student Film: The Movie, a project funded by the South Carolina Film Commission Grant. The film was produced by Clemson World Cinema Professor of Practice, Sam Sokolow, along with BrandCinema, and the film was written by Julia Fowler, who is known for her work in Southern comedy. After an extensive audition process, Lily landed one of the starring roles.

Unlike traditional films, A Student Film: The Movie incorporates improv from its actors, which gave Lily the chance to showcase her creativity and adaptability on screen — skills she’s been honing since her days performing at CCES.

At Clemson, Lily is majoring in Performing Arts with a concentration in Theater and an emphasis in Acting, while also pursuing a minor in Animal Science. Her path to this point began in fifth grade, when she took the stage in Shrek The Musical, Jr. at CCES. From that moment on, Lily performed in every production the school offered.

She fondly recalls learning from Upper School Theater Teacher Reed Halverson, particularly during her time performing in Hello, Dolly! with Mill Town Players. “That was a pivotal experience for me. Working with acting professionals really opened my eyes,” Lily reflected.

When it came time to apply for college, Lily had always dreamed of attending Clemson. With the encouragement and guidance of Lindsey Waters, Associate Director of College Counseling, Lily successfully navigated the early-action audition process and received her acceptance in December 2024. “Ms. Waters was such a support throughout that whole process,” Lily said. “She truly cared and helped me get where I wanted to go.”

Looking back on her time at CCES, Lily says the lessons she learned went far beyond the stage. “My ability to make connections and talk to people in a business setting is something I learned at CCES,” she said. “I’m not intimidated in those environments. I know how to communicate clearly and professionally.” She credits her teachers for her ability to be intentional and confident in her communication.

Lily also expressed deep gratitude to Lower School Music Teacher Joy Hughes, who gave her early opportunities to perform and explore her love of singing and acting.

So, when can we catch Lily on screen? A Student Film; The Movie is set to premiere at Clemson in Spring 2026. We can’t wait to cheer her on.

Congratulations, Lily! Your CCES family is so proud of you and excited to see where your passion and talent take you next.