When most people think of academic competitions, they picture quizzes and test questions. The National Civics Bee is different. It challenges middle school students to think critically about their communities, understand how the government works, and propose real solutions to real problems.

This year, Christ Church Episcopal School student Riley Metcalfe ’30 rose to the challenge.

After winning the regional National Civics Bee competition hosted by the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, Riley advanced to the South Carolina Statewide Championship at the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law. There, she earned the title of 2026 South Carolina State Champion.

Although Riley was initially hesitant to enter the competition, she's grateful she did. "I was primarily inspired by the hope to make a difference in my community," Riley said. "Another factor was my eighth grade Government and Civics course taught by Ms. Logozzo."

The competition begins with an original essay in which students identify a challenge in their community and explain how civic engagement can help address it. Riley’s essay focused on lack of access to quality internet for low-income families in an increasingly digital world. 

From there, students advance through regional and state competitions that test their knowledge of American government, constitutional principles, critical thinking, and public speaking. Competitors are evaluated not only on what they know, but also on how effectively they communicate ideas, analyze problems, and demonstrate thoughtful civic leadership.

To prepare, Riley went well beyond the official study guide provided by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Employing study habits and test preparation she’d learned through Middle School, she created countless flashcards, completed practice tests, and studied primary source documents to deepen her understanding of civics.

This fall, Riley will represent South Carolina at the National Civics Bee National Championship in Washington, D.C., where she will compete alongside state champions from across the country. She is especially excited to test her knowledge in the nation's capital, where the institutions and principles she has studied come to life.

"Competing with the best from all 50 states will be something I will never forget, no matter the outcome," Riley said.

Riley hopes to pursue a career in law or public service, with aspirations of becoming an attorney, judge, or elected official. She credits her experiences at CCES - including her Government and Civics class with Ms. Logozzo and the National Civics Bee - with helping her build a strong foundation in civic knowledge, public speaking, and leadership.

Riley’s achievement adds to a remarkable year of national recognition for CCES, following our Upper School Ethics Bowl team’s National Championship victory earlier this spring. Read more about the Ethics Bowl team's accomplishment in the blog.

As she prepares for the National Civics Bee National Championship this fall, the CCES community is cheering her on and celebrating this remarkable accomplishment. Congratulations, Riley, and best of luck in Washington, D.C.!

Riley's success has been featured across the state - explore the coverage below:
South Carolina Daily Gazette
Aiken Standard
WRDW
The State 

We're excited to welcome several new educators and staff members to the Christ Church Episcopal School community! We also celebrate the faculty and staff who are taking on new roles within our school. Join us in welcoming these talented individuals as they begin this exciting new chapter at CCES! 

LOWER SCHOOL

Jen Arndt, First Grade - Ms. Arndt has 18 years of experience, most recently at The John Cooper School as a Kindergarten teacher. 

Kimberly Baldwin, Primer Instructional Assistant - Ms. Baldwin has 33 years of experience teaching lower school grades in several independent schools. She has most recently served as a substitute teacher and HUB teacher at CCES. 

Dr. Rebecca Blevins, Second Grade - Dr. Blevins has 20 years of experience, most recently at McKissick Academy as a RISE Facilitator. 

Stephanie Cooley, First Grade Instructional Assistant - Ms. Cooley has 20 years of experience, most recently at The Calverton School as a Librarian and Math Support Specialist. 

Caiti Miller, Counselor - Ms. Miller has five years of experience, most recently at RIZE Prevention as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Student Liaison. 

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Erin Brearly, Choir Director - Ms. Brearly has 14 years of experience, most recently at Fisher Middle School as the Choir Director. 

Laura DiBlasio, Sixth Grade Math - Ms. DiBlasio has 14 years of experience, most recently at Davidson Day School as a Middle School Math Teacher. 

Darla Hart, Sixth Grade English - Ms. Hart has 25 years of teaching experience across Lower School and Middle School grades in several independent schools. She has most recently served as a long term substitute at CCES. 

Asia Mattress, Part-Time Administrative Assistant - Ms. Mattress has three years of experience and has served CCES as a tutor, Summer Encounters Coordinator, and Assistant Volleyball Coach. 

Severin Meding, German - Mr. Meding has 10 years of experience, most recently at Gesamtschule Lohmar in Germany as a high school teacher. 

Annette Moore, Part-Time Library Assistant - Ms. Moore has 15 years of experience, most recently in Greenville County schools as a Library Media Specialist. 

Jena Smith, Eighth Grade English - Ms. Smith has 13 years of experience, most recently at Dorman High School as an English teacher. 

Kwame Thornton, Sixth Grade Social Studies - Mr. Thornton has nine years of experience, most recently in a Beaufort County school as a Middle School Social Studies teacher. 

UPPER SCHOOL

Mike Cammon, TIDE Teacher and Innovator-in-Residence - Mr. Cammon has 12 years of experience, most recently at Playlist as the Senior Manager, Professional Services. 

Dr. Adriane McDonald, Biology - Dr. McDonald has six years of experience most recently at the Central Visayan Institute Foundation (Philippines) as a Biology Instructor and Research Mentor. 

Emma Thackray, Administrative Assistant - Ms. Thackray has 16 years of experience, most recently at The Nature Conservatory as the Human Resources Manager. 

Erin Estep, Math - Ms. Estep has five years of experience, most recently at Greenville High School as a Math teacher. 

STRATEGIC MARKETING & COMMUNICATION

Kailee Morris, Marketing Coordinator and Head Varsity Field Hockey Coach - Ms. Morris is a recent graduate from the University of Mary Washington where she played Field Hockey. 

ATHLETICS 

Read more about our new varsity head coaches here.

INTERNAL MOVES

Caroline Bethel, Middle School TIDE & Department Coordinator - From Middle School Social Studies
Emilie Whitaker, Upper School TIDE and Department Chair - From Middle School TIDE
Elizabeth Bagden, Assistant Athletic Director - From Upper School Administrative Assistant
Laura Nightengale, First Grade - From Lower School Instructional Assistant
Ashley Underwood, Primer - From Primer Assistant
Jing Voon Gan, Upper School TIDE and MS Chinese - From MS Chinese
Sina Shuey, Math Department Chair
Temechia Bates, English Department Coordinator
James Pharr, English Department Chair
Susan Logozzo, History/Social Studies Department Coordinator
Gena Adams-Riley, Wellbeing and Growth Coach
Lydia Pettigrew, School Counselor Coordinator

CCES Athletics is excited to welcome several new head coaches and an assistant athletic director, each bringing a unique background, a shared passion for student-athletes, and a commitment to building strong, successful programs. As they step into their new roles, these coaches and leaders are ready to make an impact on our Cavaliers and help shape an exciting year ahead for CCES Athletics. 

Incoming Assistant Athletic Director Elizabeth Bagden brings a wealth of experience in athletics administration to the Cavalier Athletics program. Bagden began her career in college athletics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill before moving to Georgia Tech, where she served as Assistant Athletic Director of Events and Facilities, overseeing major athletic events and capital projects. After later working in admissions at her alma mater, Greensboro Day School, and serving in the CCES Upper School, she is excited to step into this new role and continue building relationships with coaches, athletes, and families. Bagden says she looks forward to learning the rhythms of high school athletics and helping support the department however she can. She is especially excited to experience the upcoming seasons alongside her family, including her oldest child, who already wants to attend every home game. 

Fun fact: She played both soccer and lacrosse at UNC and is a two-time NCAA Soccer National Champion. 

Incoming varsity field hockey coach Kailee Morris brings nine years of coaching experience from camps, clinics, and summer leagues. A dedicated field hockey player since middle school, she continued her athletic career at Converse University and the University of Mary Washington. Drawing inspiration from the coaches who shaped her own journey, Morris emphasizes a strong work ethic, personal growth, and a genuine love for the game. She is excited to build upon the program’s foundation by developing players’ skills, fitness, and confidence while fostering a lifelong passion for field hockey that extends well beyond the field. 

Fun fact: She ran her first half marathon in December 2025.  

After serving as a volunteer coach at CCES last year, incoming varsity cheer head coach Andrea Harden says the encouragement she received from the athletes and coaches inspired her to return for her first year as a head coach. A former sideline and competitive cheerleader from middle school through college, she credits the sport with teaching her accountability, discipline, teamwork, and trust – lessons that now shape the way she coaches. Coach Harden hopes to emphasize a family bond among the team, where athletes feel valued, supported, and motivated to grow together both on and off the sidelines. She is especially looking forward to watching the team bond throughout the season, from game days and UCA camp to the program’s first-ever end-of-year showcase. 

Fun fact: She loves planning and hosting gatherings and admits she always goes “a little overboard” with decorations. 

Incoming girls varsity cross country head coach Sarah Hinds brings a lifelong love of running to the Cavalier Cross Country program. Coach Hinds has spent the past two years as an assistant coach for the girls cross country team and says the experience has been “truly joyful and inspiring.” A runner since sixth grade, she credits the sport with shaping some of her strongest friendships and life lessons, continuing to run everything from 5Ks to a full marathon at age 50. As a coach, Hinds hopes to create a positive, structured, and team-first culture where athletes find joy in the process, support one another, and grow in confidence both on and off the course. She is especially excited for the team-building moments that come with the season, from the annual retreat to Blowing Rock to crisp fall race mornings. 

Fun fact: She once helped Harrison Ford pick out a jacket while working in Jackson, Wyoming, and still can’t believe that Han Solo and Indiana Jones knew her by name when he came back the next day to exchange the jacket for a different size. 

Incoming varsity girls basketball head coach Maurice “Mo” Langston brings both experience and passion to the Cavalier Basketball program. While he is new to this role, Coach Mo has coached at CCES for the past five years and has spent 13 years coaching basketball overall. A former player himself, he says the game taught him that coaching is about more than strategy, it’s about mentoring and helping shape young lives through the sport he loves. His philosophy centers around “playing free” and “playing for each other,” and he hopes to build a culture rooted in sisterhood, leadership, and hard work. He is especially excited about the strong group of returning players and the opportunity to help the team grow together on and off the court this season. 

Fun fact: He says the movie Rudy still gets “a tear or two” out of him every time.  

Incoming varsity baseball coach Dustin Smith is entering his fourth year with the Cavaliers and his 13th year of coaching overall. A lifelong baseball player, he competed at Gardner-Webb University and Southern Wesleyan University before spending time in professional baseball with the Wichita Wingnuts and Coastal Bend Thunder. Those experiences shaped his player-centered coaching philosophy, which emphasizes helping student-athletes reach their full potential both on and off the field. As he steps into the role of head coach, Smith is excited to continue building on the culture of hard work and brotherhood that has been established within the program over the past several years. He is especially excited to build on the growth of the team, led by a strong senior class and a talented group of young players, as the Cavaliers continue moving the program forward. 

Fun fact: He enjoys taking his three sons to dirt track races. 

We are excited to welcome these coaches and leaders to the Cavalier Athletics program and look forward to the passion and experience they will bring to our programs. As the seasons begin, we can’t wait to cheer them on and watch the lasting impact they will make on our student-athletes, teams, and community.

CCES had eight varsity teams in action this spring with 53 student-athletes who were named All-Region and/or All-State in their respective sports. Congratulations to all!

Baseball
Region Player of the Year: Bo Lowrance 
All-Region: Alex Drake, Blake Foral
All-State: Bo Lowrance 

Boys Golf (State Runner-Up, Region Champions) 
Region Player of the Year: Heyward Jennings
All-Region: Hampton Shields, Henry Wofford, Heyward Jennings
All-State: John Waldrop, Heyward Jennings, Henry Wofford

Girls Lacrosse 
District Player of the Year: Lexi Sobocinski
Lexi Sobocinski- 1st Team All-District, 1st Team All-Upperstate, 1st Team All-State
Catharine Easterling- 1st Team All-District, 1st Team All-Upperstate, 1st Team All-State
Pearson Glenn- 1st Team All-District, 1st Team All-Upperstate, 1st Team All-State
Sydney Shaw- 1st Team All-District, 1st Team All-Upperstate, 2nd Team All-State
Elle Howley- 1st Team All-District, 1st Team All-Upperstate, 2nd Team All-State
Mae Hatfield- 1st Team All-District, 1st Team All-Upperstate
Karyston Davis-1st Team All-District, 2nd Team All-Upperstate
Maggie Chernez- 1st Team All-District, 2nd Team All-Upperstate
Kate Marguet- 1st Team All-District, 1st Team All-Upperstate
Adelaide de Brux- 1st Team All-District, 2nd Team All-Upperstate
Julia Davis- 2nd Team All-District
Ella Brashier- 2nd Team All-District
JJ Nessmith- 1st Team All-District, 2nd Team All-Upperstate
Harper Davis- 1st Team All-District, 2nd Team All-Upperstate

Boys Lacrosse
Will Morton - 1st Team All-State, 1st Team All-Upper State
Bates Mann - 1st Team All-State, 1st Team All-Upper State
William Roye - 1st Team All-State, 1st Team All-Upper State
Wallace Conger - 1st Team All-State, 1st Team All-Upper State
Ryan Von Wyl - 1st Team All-State, 1st Team All-Upper State
Augustus De Brux - 1st Team All-State, 1st Team All-Upper State
Michael Spinelli - 2nd Team All-State, 1st Team All-Upper State
Owen Reamer - 2nd Team All-State, 1st Team All-Upper State
Chris Kanos - 1st Team All-Upper State
Cooper Fay - 1st Team All-Upper State
Wright Goldsmith - 2nd Team All-Upper State
Connor Thompson - 2nd Team All-Upper State
Reid Hipp - 2nd Team All-Upper State

Girls Soccer (Region Champions)
Region Coach of the Year: Jacob Rawlings
Region Player of the Year: Sophia Mahfood
All-Region: Grace Harrell, Sophia Mahfood, Sophia Tzouvelekas, Catherine Morton, Effie Koumoustiotis, Addie Sebolt, 
All-State: Grace Harrell, Sophia Mahfood, Margaret Swent, Addie Sebolt

Boys Soccer (Co-Region Champions) 
Region Co-Coach of the Year: Russell Shelley
All-Region: William Ossman, David Walter, Hudson Temple, Judd Windham, Ian Tucker
All-State: William Ossman, David Walter, Hudson Temple, Judd Windham

Boys Tennis (Co-Region Champions)
All-Region Singles: Paul Fraunberger
All-Region Doubles: Case Aldrich and Bruno Nickel 

Track & Field
State Champion: Kendall Foster (800m)
All-State: Ryder Kent (800m), Kendall Foster (800m), Charlotte Shew (Pole Vault), Henry Bacon (3200m)  

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

At CCES, getting students “college ready” is a comprehensive, multi-year process that starts with the support of our youngest Cavaliers and culminates in the Upper School, where three outstanding college counselors are committed to working one-on-one with each student to help them find their college fit. In 2018, our College Counseling team introduced a new program to address issues outside of the realm of testing and essay writing, Transitions to College: School Life, Academics, and Healthy Relationships. This three-day series for seniors focuses on the things that we all wish someone had taught us before we left for college.

We kicked off the program with an Alumni Panel held in the Hartness Performing Arts Center’s Rooke Theater. Moderated by Director of Young Alumni Relations and Communications, Cassie Wingard, the six recent CCES alumni shared personal college experiences, advice for college life, and answered questions including: 

• In what ways has your experience at CCES impacted your transition into/ first year at college?
• What was the biggest adjustment from high school to college?
• What advice would you give to someone nervous about finding their people in college?
• What do you wish you had known before entering college?

This year we were thrilled to welcome recent CCES graduates Addy Claire Jones ’25 (University of Kentucky), Will Marguet ’25 (Auburn University), Tucker Hendrix ’25 (Clemson University), Liam Weston ’25 (Yale University), Ella Grace Burnett’ 25 (Wake Forest University), and Chandler Sherman ’25 (University of South Carolina).

On Tuesday, seniors heard from guest speakers Aaron Whited (12th Grade Dean of Students), Stacey Ejiri (Middle/Upper School Nurse), Zay Kittredge (Upper School Counselor), and Amy Rogers (Registrar and OCC Coordinator) on health and safety. Speakers covered a wide range of topics - from personal college experiences and building healthy relationships to a parent’s perspective and overall health and safety - while also answering student questions. Following the presentations, students participated in hands-on CPR training.

On Wednesday, seniors were on the baseball field learning about self-defense with Terence and Ashley Brister from Unified Self Defense. Terence is the owner and a State Certified Law Enforcement Officer with 13 years of experience in the military, law enforcement, and personal protection services. Ashley is the Class Coordinator of Unified Self Defense, a home invasion survivor, and a huge advocate of self-defense classes. The pair educated students in simple and effective self-defense techniques, such as a head block, knee strike, and palm heel strike, that they could easily retain. 

On Thursday, our seniors joined together one last time on campus for the traditional Senior Breakfast, before heading off to locations all around Greenville for community service. The day culminated at Christ Church downtown for Commencement rehearsal and finally the Head of School Dinner. 

The “Transitions to College” program would not be possible without the coordination of the Upper School Administration and College Counseling Teams, as well as the generous guest speakers and alumni who take time to share their experiences with our students. Thanks to everyone for preparing our 2026 graduates for their next adventures.  
 

This year, 86 Middle School students took the stage or worked behind the scenes to bring SpongeBob the Musical: Youth Edition to life. It was a jaw-dropping performance – vibrant, energetic, occasionally a little chaotic, and bursting with talent.

As the music director, I had a front-row seat to the magic. Every day, I watched students take risks, find their voices (sometimes quite literally), and encourage one another in ways that went far beyond the stage.

Leading the charge was Upper School theater teacher Reed Halvorson, who must run on pure creative energy. Fresh off directing Footloose and an encore performance of Southern Belle Telephone at CCES and the Southeastern Theatre Conference, Reed jumped straight into this production with vision, humor, and just the right amount of undersea shenanigans - sometimes juggling all three shows at once. Somehow, he made it all work, bringing both structure and joy to every rehearsal.

At the heart of this entire show - truly the magic behind the magic - was someone our students lovingly call Dr. Lisa. Dr. Lisa Allen first came to CCES as a parent volunteer when her children, Andrew ’17 and Megan ’20, were students - and thankfully, she never left. In her role as Theater Costumer and Production Assistant, she serves as the creative force behind some of the most imaginative costuming ever seen on a school stage.

And SpongeBob was no ordinary show.

We were transported to an underwater world filled with sponges, a squirrel, a myriad of sea creatures, and pure imagination - which meant the costumes had to do a lot of storytelling... and Dr. Lisa delivered.

Our Sardines rocked lime green parachute pants.

Our Electric Skates rolled across the stage in Heelys.

Our Sea Anemones? Tap danced with feather boas, naturally.

Every detail was thoughtful, imaginative, and designed to help students fully step into their roles - and have a lot of fun doing it.
And then there were the students themselves.

They balanced full academic days, homework, and, for many, both winter and spring sports. They memorized lines between practices, reviewed choreography after homework, and showed up each day ready to give their best.

One of the most special parts of a CCES production is that it truly becomes a family affair. Parents jumped in to help build the set in the vibrant world of Bikini Bottom, organize costumes, clean dressing rooms, create props, and support the countless moving pieces behind the scenes. Their time, energy, and willingness to pitch in made a production of this scale possible.

And last but certainly not least, 45 Upper School students led the way backstage. They guided Middle School crew members as they moved sets (including the massive “Mt. Humongous”), assisted cast members with hair and makeup, operated the curtain fly system, and even built the guitars for the Electric Skates (shoutout to Nick Pritchard ’26).

Theater - whether under the sea or on land - is the ultimate team effort. It’s collaboration, creativity, flexibility, and trust. In this case, it was nearly 100 students, dedicated faculty and staff, and an incredible parent community all working together to create something joyful and memorable.

And in the end, it was about more than just a show. It was about students discovering confidence, connection, and the thrill of being part of something bigger than themselves.

To see more photos from the performance, click here. 
 

On Thursday, May 14, the Upper School student body gathered together in the Hartness Performing Arts Center’s Rooke Theater for the 2026 Upper School Awards Ceremony. Head of School, David Padilla, welcomed everyone and offered his congratulations to the individuals who would be recognized. Mr. Padilla was followed by Head of the Upper School, Wes Clarke, who reflected on this ceremony as a wonderful celebration of the CCES community.

The first set of awards were presented by Kristin Bouldin, Dean of Student Support. These included the Cavalier Spirit Awards as well as several named awards honoring the memories of former CCES students and/or teachers.

The Cavalier Spirit Awards are given in recognition of a girl and a boy from the ninth Grade and from the tenth Grade who exemplify the Cavalier Spirit, characterized by integrity, enthusiasm, outreach to others, and cooperation. The recipients of the Ninth Grade Cavalier Spirit Awards were Hadley Walker and Seldon Peden. The recipients of the Tenth Grade Cavalier Spirit Awards were Allie Cappio and Rob Russell.

The Daniela Dacco Award is selected by members of the sophomore class and given in memory of Daniela Dacco ’73, the first CCES exchange student. The award recognizes the sophomore who exhibits leadership, concern, and sensitivity for others. The recipient of the 2026 Daniela Dacco Award was Hampton Shields. 

The Katy James Award was established in memory of Judith Katherine James ’13 and is awarded to a member of the sophomore class who pursues diverse interests with joy and enthusiasm. This award recognizes an individual who, in the ninth and tenth grade years, has distinguished him or herself in athletics, arts, and academic pursuits, as Katy did. The recipient of the 2026 Katy James Award was Everett Smith.

The Meghan McManus Memorial Award is given in memory of Meghan McManus ’14 to a senior girl who best exemplifies the qualities for which Meghan was known: a faithful and committed Christian; a compassionate friend to all; an intelligent, grounded, and level-headed young lady; and a well-rounded student, one accomplished academically, athletically, and artistically. The recipient of the 2026 Meghan McManus Memorial Award was Katy Cox. 

The Connor McManus Memorial Award is given in memory of Connor McManus ’17 to a freshman boy who best exemplifies those qualities for which Connor was known: a faithful and committed Christian; an empathetic friend with a big heart for the underdog; enthusiasm for school sports and service; a fun-loving student with a dry wit; and an avid reader. The recipient of the 2026 Connor McManus Memorial Award was Max Delfino.

The Kathy Adamee Award was established in honor of former CCES English teacher, Kathy Adamee, after 34 years of service in both the Middle School and Upper School English departments. This award recognizes a student in the sophomore class who has demonstrated the greatest growth and/or skill in the areas of academic research and oral presentation in his or her Sophomore Project. The recipients of the 2026 Kathy Adamee Award were Levi Horn and Philip Wieland. 

The Anna Gibbins Young Women’s Leadership Award was established in memory of Anna Gibbins, who demonstrated her devotion to CCES through her work as a CCES parent, a member of the Board of Trustees, and as Assistant Director of Development in the school’s first Development Office. This award is given to a female from the junior class to encourage leadership development and exploration of interests through a unique summer program opportunity. The 2026 Anna Gibbins Young Women’s Leadership Award recipient was Celina Brotherton. 

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Linda Schulz, Director of College Counseling, along with Assistant Directors of College Counseling Bartley Sides and Lindsey Waters, presented the 2026 Collegiate Book Awards, which are sponsored by college admission offices and local college alumni associations. The award recipients are selected by Upper School faculty. This year’s award recipients were:

Jonathan Thompson, Columbia University Book Award
Jerry Gan, Dartmouth College Book Award
Campbell Miller, High Point University Book Award
Natalie Buah-Kwofie, Hollins University Creative Writing Book Award
Isabella Agnew, St. Lawrence Book Award
Margaret Swent, Tulane University Book Award
Teagan Buck, Wake Forest Book Award
Kate Greco, Washington and Lee University Book Award
Caroline Bruner, Hollins University Mary Beth Hatten Award for Science and Scholarship
Sheamus Schellinger, University of Rochester Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award
Nicky Artz, University of Rochester Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology
Logan McCarthy, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Medal Award
Judd Windham, West Point Leadership Award
Hadley Miller, George Eastman Young Leaders Award
Kate Purtle, Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award

***

Next, Student Council President, Molly Reed, and Honor Council Chair, Samuel Levy, presented the Jones Endowment Faculty Award. This award was established in memory of two former CCES teachers, Catherine Wing Jones and her daughter, Ellen Jones Donkle ’74. Members of both the CCES Student Council and Honor Council select the recipient, a faculty or staff member of the Upper School who demonstrates genuine commitment to his or her subject area of responsibility. The 2026 Jones Endowment Faculty Award was Jimmy Burford ’98, Upper School History Teacher. Described by students as someone who “knows his subject inside and out,” what truly defines him isn’t just his knowledge, but the effort, attention, and care he puts into every single class. They shared that he is not just a teacher students have for a single year, but a trusted mentor they continue to turn to long after graduation. 

***

The next three awards were presented by Associate Head of School, Kelley Black. 

The Lane Abrams Growth Mindset Award was established in honor of CCES Director of the Achievement Center, Lane Abrams. It recognizes an Upper School student from the freshman, sophomore or junior class who demonstrates achievement while fostering a growth mindset. The awardee is one who exhibits grit and resolve by showing innovation, motivation, and productivity in his or her daily pursuits, both academic and personal. The recipient of the 2026 Lane Abrams Growth Mindset Award was Eaden Sales. 

The Blair Babb Smoak Memorial Award is given to the junior who, in the opinion of classmates, best exemplifies the qualities by which Blair Babb Smoak ’93 is remembered – a person of genuine sensitivity and caring for others, a leader who is willing to give of self to help at all times, one whose character demonstrates sincerity and dependability, and one who leads by exhibiting all the attributes of a true friend. The recipient of the 2026 Blair Babb Smoak Memorial Award was Isabella Agnew. 

The Will Grist Scholarship Award is given in memory of Will Grist Jr. ’99 to a rising senior who demonstrates Will’s qualities of honesty, integrity, compassion, and gentleness; a true friend with a zest for life; a wonderful sense of humor; respect for the dignity of the individual and consideration for others. The recipient of the 2026 Will Grist Scholarship Award was Isabella Agnew. 

***

The next three awards were presented by Director of Athletics, Molly Miller. The recipients of each award were selected by the CCES coaching staff.

 The Athletic Director's Awards are given to a senior girl and boy who have made outstanding overall contributions to the Upper School Athletic program. The recipients of the 2026 Athletic Director's Awards were Anthony Atkins and Lexi Sobocinski. 

The James B. Conyers Sportsmanship Awards are named for the beloved first CCES Athletic Director and are given to a senior girls and boy for outstanding sportsmanship in interscholastic sports. The recipients of the 2026 James B. Conyers Sportsmanship Awards were Rody Barnett and Sydney Shaw. 

The Linda B. Reeves Scholar-Athlete Awards are named in honor of Linda Reeves, a highly respected coach at CCES from 1973-2000. These awards are given to a senior girl and boy who have made strong contributions to the CCES athletics program while also maintaining strong academic records. The recipients of the 2026 Linda B. Reeves Scholar-Athlete Awards were Katy Cox, Riley Glenn, and Bo Lowrance. 

***

The next three awards were presented by Head of School, David Padilla.

The Jackie Messer Rogers Scholarship Award was established in honor of Jackie Messer Rogers by her children – Charles Jack Rogers ’80 and Mary Rogers Guy ’82. It is awarded to the rising senior with the highest cumulative GPA at CCES in grades nine, ten, and eleven through the first semester, with concentration in AP or IB course work. The recipient of the 2026 Jackie Messer Rogers Scholarship Award was Jerry Gan.

The Roger, Kirk, and Dena Stone Scholarship Award was established in the names of the children of Mr. and Mrs. E. Randolph Stone. It is awarded to the rising senior who has been in attendance at CCES continuously since grade nine and who has achieved the highest combination of evidence based reading and writing and math scores on any SAT taken through the end of the junior year. The recipient of the 2026 Roger, Kirk, and Dena Stone Scholarship was Nicky Artz. 

The Aletta Wood Jervey and Jinks Jervey Page Memorial Scholarship, established by Dr. James Wilkinson Jervey, Jr. and Dr. E. Darrell Jervey is awarded to that member of the graduating class with the most outstanding academic record based on grade point average and quality of academic curriculum from grades nine through twelve at CCES. The recipient of the 2026 Aletta Wood Jervey and Jinks Jervey Page Memorial Scholarship was Isabella Kanos. 

Additional awards given were:  

The CCES Community Service Award, presented by Service and Experiential Learning Coordinator Alli Stone, is given in recognition of a senior who has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to service within and outside our school community. The recipients of the 2026 CCES Community Service Award were Graham Smith and Amelia Koch. 

The Chaplain’s Award, presented by Father Wallace, is given to a senior who has demonstrated qualities of Christian leadership at CCES as well as academic excellence. The recipient of the 2026 Chaplain’s Award was Dodson Kramer.

The Head of School Award, presented by David Padilla, is given to a senior who best embodies the values of character, community, excellence, and service. By action, consideration, thoughtfulness, academic accomplishment, and general well roundedness, the recipient serves as a model for all that is best about being a Cavalier. The recipient of the 2026 Head of School Award was Sarah Spratlin Bullock.

Congratulations to all of the award winners at the 2026 Upper School Awards Ceremony!

Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2026. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students!

Some twins move through high school in nearly identical ways, while others grow into entirely different identities. Samantha and Mason Hartung are a thoughtful balance of both. Over their four years at CCES, they have shared meaningful experiences, from early morning cross country practices to new academic challenges, while also developing distinct interests and goals.

When they first arrived as freshmen, both Samantha and Mason describe feeling a sense of belonging almost immediately. Samantha recalls being welcomed with “open arms,” while Mason noted there was never a time he didn’t feel “included by the community.” Each found a school environment that was supportive and nonjudgmental, helping them grow in confidence and take advantage of opportunities they might not have imagined before coming to CCES.

Samantha has distinguished herself as a thoughtful and driven student with a clear passion for science and medicine. She will attend Washington University in St. Louis in the fall as a Biology major on the Pre-Med track. Samantha has embraced both the academic and experiential sides of her interests, from publishing research with a university professor to gaining hands-on exposure in medical settings during two internships last summer. Samantha’s college counselor, Lindsey Waters, shares “I have always appreciated how intentional Samantha is in her thinking. Her responses are consistently thoughtful and layered, and carries herself with a quiet confidence.” Teachers echo this sentiment, noting that she is “a leader among her peers” who contributes meaningfully to discussions and the overall learning environment. Samantha’s involvement reflects both leadership and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone. She has served as captain of the cross country team, vice president of Speech and Debate, and a leader in Sweet Treats Club. Even in activities that didn’t come naturally at first, like participating in the school musical, she leaned in, sharing that these experiences helped her “step out of [her] comfort zone.”

Mason brings a different but equally compelling energy to his experience at CCES. With a strong interest in aviation and engineering, he is currently working toward his private pilot’s license and exploring future paths that range from business to systems engineering. Whether on the cross country course, in track and field, or pursuing hands-on learning opportunities, Mason approaches new challenges with enthusiasm and curiosity. Known for being friendly, creative, and a strong collaborator, he has built meaningful relationships while continuing to explore a wide range of interests, both in and out of the classroom. Mason’s curiosity and willingness to try new things stand out. He is someone who embraces challenges, whether that means pursuing flight training or stepping into a new event on the track. His coach shared that he “approaches every challenge with determination and enthusiasm” and consistently puts the team first. In the classroom, teachers describe him as a strong contributor who “brings strong analysis to the table” and works thoughtfully with others. Mason is considering the Honors College at Purdue and waiting to hear back from the Air Force Academy.

While their interests may differ, Samantha and Mason share a strong sense of community, curiosity, and appreciation for the experiences that have shaped them at CCES. Both credit their families as important influences in their lives, and both value kindness, inclusion, and respect for others. Wherever their paths lead, both leave CCES having made a meaningful impact and with a strong foundation for what comes next.

Just for Fun

Who is someone who has greatly influenced your life?
Samantha: My mom. She is a great role model and has truly helped shape me into the person I am today.
Mason: My dad. He has taught me so much about how the world works and always makes sure everyone is heard.

If you could relive any CCES experience, what would it be?
Samantha: My first Cavfest. It was such a joyful experience!
Mason: My first cross country practice, where I quickly made friends who would stick with me throughout high school.

What is something this world could use more of?
Samantha: People who don’t judge others by their appearance.
Mason: More respect and people who truly care about others.

Tell us something people probably don’t know about you.
Both: Our birthday is July 4!

Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2026. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students!

For CCES Senior, Charlie Gouch, growth has never been about recognition. It’s been about showing up, staying steady, and doing things the right way.

Since joining CCES in third grade, Charlie has quietly built a legacy defined not by accolades alone, but by the way he treats people and the consistency he brings to every space he’s in. Whether in the classroom, on the lacrosse field, or among friends, Charlie is known for his calm, grounded presence. He is a steady force, and friend, others naturally trust and lean on.

Charlie believes that sense of steadiness is simply part of who he is, describing himself as “calm, easygoing, and patient,” someone who approaches challenges with a level head and a strong work ethic. These qualities have shaped his success both academically and personally. Teachers note that he leads not with volume, but by example, demonstrating that respect, consistency, and quiet determination can be just as powerful as any grand gesture.

At CCES, Charlie found both challenge and belonging. From meaningful friendships that began the moment he shadowed as a new student, to being pushed academically in classes like Spanish III Honors, his experience has been one of growth and connection. His love for Spanish even earned him recognition through the National Spanish Honor Society, and he plans to continue that passion with a minor in Spanish in college.

Charlie’s time on the lacrosse field has also been a defining part of his CCES experience. After beginning his lacrosse journey at CCES in seventh grade, he remained committed to the program through his senior year, steadily growing into a dependable and impactful presence as a midfielder. Head Varsity Boys Lacrosse Coach, Joey Porchetta describes Charlie as “a very hardworking and respectful young man of very few words,” someone whose impact extended far beyond the stat sheet. “Good things happen when Charlie is on the field,” Coach Porchetta shared, “he has made a huge impact on our program”.  Some of Coach Porchetta’s favorite memories came during the Lakeside and Boiling Springs games this season, when Charlie stepped onto the field and made momentum-shifting plays exactly when the team needed them most. Those moments didn’t just change games, they energized the entire team, reflecting the steady leadership and quiet confidence Charlie brought to the program throughout his career.

At the center of it all is Charlie’s deep appreciation for his family. He credits them for shaping his values, supporting him through every stage, and modeling the kind of consistency and integrity he strives to live out each day. That foundation has influenced the way Charlie approaches life, being grounded, grateful, and always mindful of people. 

This fall, Charlie will attend Auburn University, where he plans to study Building Science. Charlie will be able to combine his interest in construction and leadership with a long-term goal of owning his own construction company. With an internship already lined up in Greenville this summer, he’s eager to begin gaining hands-on experience and building towards his future.

But what truly sets Charlie apart is his heart for others. He doesn’t seek the spotlight, in fact, he often deflects it, but his impact is undeniable. From encouraging a friend with a thoughtful message, prayer, or bible verse, to simply being present during difficult moments, Charlie believes that showing up matters most when life gets hard. “It’s easy to be a friend when things are going well,” he shared. “But when things are hard, that’s when it really counts.”

His faith has also played a central role in shaping that perspective. Through his experiences at JH Ranch, a Christian camp in Northern California, Charlie has deepened his relationship with Christ and stepped into leadership, most recently guiding a group of Middle School students. It’s another example of the quiet way he leads through service, humility, and genuine care for others.

From athletics and academics to running his own firewood business, Charlie has embraced every opportunity with intention. Still, ask him about his proudest achievements, and he won’t point to awards, he’ll point to people. To him, success is found in “the way he shows up for others.”

As Charlie prepares for this next chapter, he leaves behind more than memories, he leaves a standard. One of kindness, humility, and unwavering presence. And while Auburn is gaining an exceptional student, CCES is sending off someone who has made this community stronger simply by being himself. We look forward to all that is next for you, Charlie!

Just for fun!

Who is someone who has greatly influenced your life? My parents, my dad leads by example, and my mom is incredibly supportive. When my dad encouraged me to start my own firewood business, my mom was my cheerleader for when I needed encouragement. 

If you could relive any CCES experience, what would it be?

I had so much fun in Lower School PE! I liked the activities, the games were so fun, whenever I’m back by the PE room in the lower school, one smell from the gym brings back all of these fond memories. I loved the games Coach Guth came up with!

Name something this world could use more of?

Peace. We need more people willing to meet in the middle. We need to be able to find common ground with things we have been divided on –coming together and figuring it out together. 

Tell us something people probably don’t know about you.

I’ve been playing guitar since the third grade and performed in the Young Artist Series for the first time this year. 

If you could try anything and know you wouldn’t fail, what would it be?

Start my own construction company.