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As an Episcopal school we welcome students from all faiths, because our identity as a community of faith is at the center of all that we do. We offer a balance among academics, the arts, athletics, service, and the fostering of a spiritual life. We value the unique character that each individual brings to the school and strive to recognize the strengths in each child.David PadillaHead of School

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A Loving Community

As an Episcopal School we are upheld by the Baptismal Covenant which calls us “to strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being.”

 

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Educating the whole student

Students can explore their interests and passions through opportunities in athletics, the arts, leadership, worship, service, and more.

Embracing Challenge and Opportunity

As an independent school, CCES offers an educational experience that is truly unique. Small classes, dedicated faculty, and well-rounded programs help to create a supportive yet challenging environment where students can learn, grow, and excel.  

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Providing Support Along the Way

In partnership with students, teachers, and parents, CCES counselors and chaplains help nurture students’ intellectual development, personal integrity, and sense of community and self-worth.

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Latest School News

A Seat at the Table: Gratefull GVL Brings the Community Together
Cassie Webber, Director of Young Alumni Relations & Communications

“Everyone has a seat at the table” is a phrase that paints a beautiful picture of unity and belonging. However, the creators of Gratefull GVL wanted to take it one step further.

“Everyone has a seat at the table” is a phrase that paints a beautiful picture of unity and belonging. However, the creators of Gratefull GVL wanted to take it one step further. Not only does everyone have a seat at the table, but everyone deserves a seat at the table. 

Guided by this ideology, Gratefull GVL co-founders, and CCES alumnae, Mary Beth Pazdan Cross '77 and Laura Halter Sardone '76 have made it their mission to bring people together, share a meal, and connect the community within all socioeconomic, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. 

Mary Beth and Laura’s story began over forty years ago. In the late 60s and into the 70s, they walked the same halls at Christ Church Episcopal School, knowing of each other but never running in the same circles. Life took them in different directions—both moved away for years, but in time, returned to Greenville. Laura returned in 2008, while Mary Beth found her way back in 2017. It wasn’t until a mutual friend brought them together that their paths truly intertwined. “I didn’t know I was waiting for the right thing to come along” Laura said, as she recalls the time Mary Beth first reached out to her with the idea of Gratefull GVL.

Mary Beth had been inspired by Gratefull Chattanooga which was first launched in 2014 and wanted to replicate it. In 2019, with the playbook and support of Gratefull Chattanooga, Mary Beth and Laura were able to join  forces for the first Gratefull GVL. Working side by side, the two discovered a new friendship far beyond what had existed in their school days. This time around, they found themselves not only in the same circles, but intersecting as kindred spirits and collaborators whose dedication and commitment to the mission of gratitude and generosity has radically impacted and positively influenced the community today.   

This year, the second Gratefull GVL was held on the Monday before Thanksgiving, where Gratefull GVL welcomed thousands of community members on the Main Street Bridge to share a meal with one another. Sitting with strangers shortly became sitting with friends. 

Compared to 2019, this event reached new heights of generosity and impact. Thanks to the remarkable contributions of 44 local restaurants, Gratefull GVL served over 20,000 portions of food with the community. Each dish represented more than just nourishment; it symbolized a shared commitment to inclusivity and care for this place we call home. 

Gratefull GVL is more than a meal—it’s a heart posture. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels they have a seat at the table, regardless of their background or circumstances. In a world often divided by differences, this event ignited the possibility of finding connection and commonalities among strangers. Families, friends, and individuals came together to break bread, share stories, and celebrate what unites us as a community.

As the day came to a close, what lingered beyond the conversations and full bellies was the profound sense of belonging, an uplifting reminder that our community thrives when we come together with open hearts and open hands. 

The success of Gratefull GVL is a testament to the fact that gratitude and generosity are not limited to those we know, but invites in and breaks down barriers so that we can find ways to bridge divides, uplift one another, and ensure that everyone knows they are valued. After all, everyone deserves a seat at the table.

When is the next Gratefull GVL, you ask? The date is not yet confirmed, but with a warm and comforting smile on both Mary Beth and Laura’s faces, when asked this question they responded, “Gratefull will be back.”

*2024 Event Photos by Ziaee Photography

 

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College counselors office.
Kelsey Long, Social Media Coordinator

The College Counseling team at CCES, including Linda Schulz, Director of College Counseling, and Bartley Sides and Lindsey Waters, Associate Directors, has been hard at work this past summer and fall, providing a wealth of resources and support.

The College Counseling team at CCES, including Linda Schulz, Director of College Counseling, Bartley Sides and Lindsey Waters, Associate Directors, has been hard at work this past summer and fall, providing a wealth of resources and support to our students as they navigate the college search and application journey. From workshops to one-on-one meetings, the team has been dedicated to making sure every student has the guidance they need to succeed. Here’s a look back at the busy and exciting semester!

Annual College Counseling Programming

For Seniors:

  • 2 Essay Writing Workshops (June/July)
  • 5 College Application Workshops (August)
  • College Night and Financial Aid Meeting for Seniors and Parents
  • 4 CavCircles focused on the college application process
  • “Apps and Snacks” event for seniors (students are welcome to drop in, working on their applications, and enjoy a snack!)
  • Numerous individual meetings guiding seniors through deadlines, testing strategies, brainstorming essays, and submitting applications

For Juniors:

  • College Night for Juniors and Parents
  • Individual college planning meetings with Juniors started in November
  • 4 CavCircles for Juniors focused on college planning

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, Miami University of Ohio, USC, and High Point. Additionally, they visited numerous colleges, including the University of Southern California, Occidental College, Pomona College, Scripps College, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont McKenna College, Pitzer College, Pepperdine University, UCLA, and CalTech.

In addition to our regular programming, the College Counseling team participated in several  events to stay connected with the broader college admissions community. Ms. Schulz and Mr. Sides attended the NACAC Annual Conference in Los Angeles, where they connected with over 6,000 college admissions professionals (and fun fact: Out of 21,000 students, they ran into CCES Alumnus Jack Roberts '22!) Ms. Schulz also co-chaired the Greenville County College Fair, an event that served over 2,000 students and families, providing an excellent opportunity to connect with a wide range of colleges.

While they take their work seriously, they also know how to have fun! For Halloween, they dressed up as Beauty and the Beast characters and handed out candy during lunch, spreading joy among the students. In December, they participated in Teamwork Tuesday, dressing as the Three Wise Counselors to celebrate the holiday season. On the last day of classes, they greeted students dressed as Santa, Mrs. Claus, and a reindeer, handing out mints and wishing everyone the best of luck on their exams.

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! 
 

Read More about College Counseling Fall 2024 Recap
Senior, Jackson Repp in an all white Cavalier Football uniform in Carson Stadium.
Kelsey Long, Social Media Coordinator

For CCES thirteen-year veteran Jackson Repp ’25, football is a passion, a pursuit of competitive excellence, and a source of community.

For CCES thirteen-year veteran Jackson Repp ’25, football is a passion, a pursuit of competitive excellence, and a source of community. But more than that, the sport has been a life-shaping experience, one that has taught him perseverance, leadership, and what it means to push through adversity. Year-round, you can find him pouring countless hours into his training, both on and off the field, working to be the best player he can be. Looking at his resume, it’s clear that he’s been able to do just that - a two-time state champion, Region Player of the Year (2023), a number of individual honors and five school records including the all time leader in receiving yards, most receiving yards in an individual season, receiving touchdowns in an individual season, among others. 

Growing up in a football family, Jackson was introduced to the sport at a young age, starting with peewee football when he was eight years old. Although he was more serious about baseball growing up, by the time he was in eighth grade, football was where he found his true calling. After he started putting in more work outside of practice, he fell in love with the sport. "I knew I was good, and I loved the competition — being able to line up against someone and prove I was better,” he explained. 

When Head Varsity Football Coach, Quin Hatfield, first met Jackson during summer workouts in 2020, he was immediately impressed by his speed, talent, and unmatched work ethic. Even as a freshman, Jackson made an impression by holding his own against older, more experienced players in summer varsity 7v7 tournaments. By the middle of his freshman season, Jackson was called up to join the varsity team. Coach Hatfield recalls how during one of Jackson’s first varsity plays, he “went house on a pick six” and ran sixty yards to return a touchdown. By the end of his freshman year, Jackson had solidified himself as a key player and earned a starting spot for his sophomore season. Coach Hatfield noted that Jackson’s tremendous football IQ, his quick speed and agility, coupled with his intense work ethic has made him one of the best football players he has seen during his time at CCES. 

Jackson’s experience as a four-year member of the varsity football team has been more than the big plays and wins, but valuable life lessons. "Football has taught me how to persevere, even when things don't go your way," he says – a lesson that prepared him to tackle his next journey head on. Earlier this season, Jackson suffered a torn ACL and partially torn meniscus during a game against Riverside. Yet, despite the overwhelming disappointment, he has refused to let the injury define him. After undergoing surgery in late September, he started the long recovery process with the same mentality and determination that has always driven him on the field. "I’m relearning how to do basic things, like lifting my leg and walking normally. Physical therapy is hard and it hurts, but I know it’s so important for getting back to where I want to be,” he says. Although it’s a tough recovery process, he’s determined to come back better than ever.

 
More than just focusing on his own recovery, Jackson has embraced a new role on the team. As a senior leader, he’s had to adapt to a different kind of leadership, one where he’s not able to play, but still has a significant impact. He’s taken on more of a coaching role. "I share my knowledge with the team, encourage them, and help them stay motivated,” he explains. Coach Hatfield praised Jackson for his selflessness and leadership off the field, noting how he has transitioned into a coaching role and even asked to wear a headset during games. “I admire how he prioritizes the team, offering guidance on playmaking and encouraging them.”

Throughout his football career at CCES, he notes that it’s the relationships and lessons that stand out the most to him. He credits the supportive environment with shaping him both as a player, person, and leader. From coaches to teammates, “everyone has been so helpful in my development," he says, reflecting on the guidance he’s received over the years. Coach Hatfield, in noting the leadership growth he’s seen in Jackson over the years, says, “he’s always led by example as the hardest working guy, but seeing him grow into his role as a vocal leader has been neat.” 

Jackson says that his coaches have become mentors while his teammates have become brothers. Other than the obvious back-to-back state championship winning seasons, he’ll always fondly remember the long bus rides to 7v7 tournaments spent playing video games with his teammates. As Jackson plans his future, he reflects on his time at CCES and offers advice to those who will follow: "Soak in every moment. Each year has been special, and I've created countless memories with my teammates and coaches. Once it's over, it's gone, so make sure to enjoy every minute of it."
 

Read More about November Halftime Report: Jackson Repp '25
CCES Student-Athlete Commits to Harvard University
Kelsey Long, Social Media Coordinator

Christ Church Episcopal School celebrated the successes of senior student-athlete, Hudson McCarthy, during a signing ceremony on November 13.

Christ Church Episcopal School celebrated the successes of senior student-athlete, Hudson McCarthy, during a signing ceremony on November 13. Family, teammates, coaches, and school officials gathered in Rooke Theater to watch Hudson commit to the application process at Harvard University - a symbolic confirmation of his commitment to his academics and lacrosse at the next level. 

Assistant Director of Athletics and Head Varsity Boys Lacrosse Coach, Joey Porchetta, described Hudson as a special player, one that embodies confidence, preparedness, competitiveness, swagger, and grit. He recalled the first time he watched Hudson play lacrosse, noting that there was an “intangible spirit that surrounded Hudson on the field.” In addition to his technical ability, Coach Porchetta has also seen Hudson as a leader on the team. “He leads by example, builds people up, and makes everyone around him better,” Coach Porchetta says. 

Hudson McCarthy is described by his teachers as a thoughtful and insightful leader. He models “intellectual engagement” and demonstrates passion in all that he does. 

Congrats to Hudson on all he's accomplished at Christ Church and the exciting things ahead in his athletic career. While he’ll soon be on a new team, he'll always be a Cavalier. Go Cavs!
 

For photos from the ceremony, click here.

Read More about CCES Student-Athlete Commits to Harvard University
Middle School students spoke at the Veterans Day assembly alongside local veterans.
Kelsey Long, Social Media Coordinator

Christ Church Episcopal School observed Veterans Day through a variety of events and activities, taking time to reflect on the many sacrifices made by those who serve this country in the United States military.

Christ Church Episcopal School observed Veterans Day through a variety of events and activities, taking time to reflect on the many sacrifices made by those who serve this country in the United States military. The Upper and Middle School held assemblies to honor Veterans Day while Lower School classrooms participated in various activities such as writing thank you letters to local veterans. 

On Monday, November 11, the Middle School held their third annual Veterans Day assembly in Rooke Theater. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Seldon Peden ’29, and followed by the singing of the Star-Spangled Banner, performed by members of the Middle School choir. 

James Greco, 5th and 6th Grade Dean of Student Life, introduced Auggie Springhart, Riley Metcalfe, Henry Lokey, and Addison Lenehan, students from the CCES Class of 2030, who prepared essays on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. These essays were selected out of hundreds of applications and these four students will represent CCES in laying wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Arlington National Cemetery on the 7th grade trip to Washington, DC next week.

To close the assembly, students heard from retired Lieutenant Colonel Mark Elfers of the U.S. Marine Corps, a CCES parent with twenty years of service around the world, including in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Japan. He shared his perspective on service, emphasizing that “it’s not about you, it’s about something bigger than you.” Lieutenant Colonel Elfers challenged students to consider that they, too, are a part of something greater than themselves. He then encouraged them, in anything they do, to find their why, embrace challenge, and try hard. 

In a heartfelt and inspiring Veterans Day assembly, Upper School students had the privilege of hearing from retired Colonel Mike Schellinger, an Upper School parent and distinguished veteran. Col. Schellinger spoke with sincerity about the history of Veterans Day, weaving in his own family’s legacy of military service and recounting moments from his extensive career.

Quoting John 15:13, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends,” he highlighted the profound sacrifices made by those in the armed forces. Col. Schellinger emphasized that this sacrifice extends beyond the service members to their families, who support and endure alongside them. 

He concluded with a compelling call to action, urging students to live lives that honor and uphold the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans. His words left a lasting impact, inspiring gratitude and a renewed sense of responsibility among all who attended.

Lower School students wrote letters and shared them with the Daughters of the Revolution - Nathaniel Greene chapter who will distribute the letters to local veterans. Through writing letters and hearing from veterans in this community, students were able to remember the many sacrifices of those who have served in the military. It was a time to reflect on the freedoms of this country and the gratitude we have for those who have served to protect them. Thank you to all in the CCES community who have served and are actively serving, we are so grateful for the sacrifices you and your families have made on behalf of this country.

Read More about CCES Reflects on Veterans Day
Three CCES students are awarded Fine Arts Scholarships.
Kelsey Long, Social Media Coordinator

On November 7th, three talented Upper School students were honored with Fine Arts Scholarship Awards during the All Saints and Arts Chapel service.

On November 7th, three talented Upper School students were honored with Fine Arts Scholarship Awards during the All Saints and Arts Chapel service. These awards celebrate students who have demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication to the arts, continuing a legacy of creativity and excellence.

The Chris Ferrell Scholarship Award was established to honor the memory of Chris Ferrell ’89. This award recognizes one or more members of the sophomore, junior, or senior class who have demonstrated outstanding gifts and performances in the Fine Arts. This year, we were delighted to have Chris’ mom, Ms. Ann Ferrell, in attendance to present to the recipients of this year’s award, Luke Brownlee ’25 and Olivia Lu ’25.

Luke Brownlee received his award from Upper School Theater Teacher, Reed Halvorson, who praised Luke as a “devoted, confident artist able to move the masses just with the use of his God given voice.” Mr. Halvorson urged us to prepare not only to hear, but to truly feel the depth of Luke’s incredible talent in the upcoming Upper School production of Les Miserables this spring. Luke’s friend and classmate, Anna Bruner ’25, also spoke on his behalf. She fondly recalled watching Luke bring characters to life in past Upper School musicals, from Roger in Grease and the Beast in Beauty and the Beast. Anna praised Luke’s dedication to honing his craft as well as “never hesitating to lend a hand to underclassmen or help a classmate run lines.”

Olivia Lu received the second Chris Ferrell Scholarship Award, presented by Jenny James, Middle/Upper School Band Teacher. Ms. James highlighted Olivia’s excellence in both the visual and performing arts as well as her integral service as a crew member for the Upper School musicals. She praised Olivia's leadership, noting that while she may be quiet, her impact is invaluable in every endeavor she takes on. Olivia’s friend and classmate, Lara Sieverling ’25, also reflected on her exceptional dedication to the arts, from her contributions to the music department and Beauty and the Beast to her significant role in the IB Art program. Lara celebrated Olivia not only for her artistic talents but for “the great friend she is—someone who brings a little extra creativity and joy to everything she touches.”

The Richard Buckley Jacques Award, established in honor of Richard Buckley Jacques ’07, was next. Richard, a beloved member of the Christ Church community, was known for his humor, adventurous spirit, and passion for the arts, particularly in digital design. This award, given for the fourth year in a row, honors an Upper School student who demonstrates exceptional talent in digital media, including photography, film, web design, or other forms of digital art.

Robert Howell ’26 was presented this year’s Richard Buckley Jacques award by Upper School Digital Media Teacher, Owen Riley. Mr. Riley described Robert as an exceptional photographer as well as a “leader by example, known for his sense of humor, positive attitude, and care for others.” Robert’s friend, classmate, and football teammate, Judd Windham ’27, spoke on his behalf, highlighting Robert’s adaptability, attention to detail, creativity, and collaborative spirit—qualities that make him both a talented photographer and football player. He praised Robert’s approach to life, noting his “determined attitude and hardy smile.”

These Fine Arts Scholarship Awards provide an opportunity for CCES to recognize and celebrate the artistic gifts of both current students and those who came before them. Congratulations to this year’s awardees—Luke Brownlee, Olivia Lu, and Robert Howell—whose talent, dedication, and contributions to the arts continue to inspire our community.

 

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A group of upper school students read a children's book to a lower school class.
John Mark Elliot, Middle School Chaplain and Director of Community & Belonging

As Election Day approaches, it may feel as though we’re collectively holding our breath. 

As Election Day approaches, it may feel as though we’re collectively holding our breath. We find ourselves in a season of political uncertainty, where concerns about national unity are amplified, and anxiety about engaging in any form of political talk has peaked.

We all swim in these waters, and CCES is no exception. We cannot escape our context, but we can choose to navigate this season with humility, civility, and grace. At CCES, we’re equipped with exceptional tools to do so. Our core values of Character, Community, Excellence, and Service, alongside our Episcopal identity, give us a unique opportunity to be a haven from a wider culture often characterized by hostility and division. Instead, we will aspire to be a community that champions empathy and understanding, grounded in Christ’s call “to strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being” (Book of Common Prayer, page 305).

So, how do we put these values into action? It starts with a conversation. In recent weeks, our faculty and staff have been engaging with beautiful questions: How do we model and teach students to engage across differences with grace? How do we foster civil discourse in and beyond the classroom? How do we encourage students to respect everyone’s right to hold their own beliefs without pressure or judgment? How can we live out the biblical invitation to “let all that we do be done in love” (1 Corinthians 16:8) and “live peaceably with all” (Romans 12:18)? As Saint Francis of Assisi said, how can we become “instruments of peace,” seeking to understand rather than to be understood, and to love more than to be loved (Book of Common Prayer, page 833)?

Here are the facts: We need one another to make this possible and do these things well. It takes a village. In order to expand our capacity to talk with rather than past one another, we must lean in together. This is the shared work of faculty, staff, students, and families. As members of the Cavalier community, we all have a special responsibility to help each other navigate differences with grace—not just now, with a presidential election looming, but always! There’s no shortage of differences we’ll encounter in this community (it’s part of what makes CCES so wonderful!), so let’s practice disagreeing in ways that respect and uphold the dignity of each and every person.

Join the conversation! Take a look at these guidelines that our faculty and staff are discussing, refining, and applying all around campus. What stands out to you? What questions do you have? How can you partner with us in this effort to “love our neighbor as we love ourselves” in a community full of differences? 

Grace and Peace,

John Mark

Click here to read the CCES guidelines for navigating differences with grace. 

Read More about Civil Discourse and The Upcoming Election
Chandler Sherman dives for a volleyball. 
Kelsey Long, Social Media Coordinator

On Thursday, October 24th, the Greenville Chamber and the Riley Institute at Furman named CCES senior, Chandler Sherman, this year’s Upstate Diversity Leadership Outstanding High School Student.

On Thursday, October 24th, the Greenville Chamber and the Riley Institute at Furman named CCES senior, Chandler Sherman, this year’s Upstate Diversity Leadership Outstanding High School Student. This prestigious award honors “outstanding individuals and organizations in the Upstate who are making a positive difference through diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.”

The more you learn about Chandler, however, the more you understand that her contributions in this realm have less to do with “effort" and everything to do with her character. Or, as Middle School Chaplain and Director of Community and Belonging John Mark Elliott wrote in his nomination: “Chandler doesn't deserve recognition for inclusion work because she leads or partners with groups/organizations that focus on this work. She deserves to be celebrated because she embodies the work. It's part of her make up."

As early as sixth grade, Chandler was organizing meetings with her classmates to talk about ways in which our Cavalier community could better honor and include students of color. She named specific areas of improvement and invited her peers to be curious about the Black experience and understand more deeply the experiences of students of color and other marginalized groups at the school and in the wider world.

As a sophomore, Chandler was a founding member of Christ Church Episcopal School's Faith In Action committee – a student-led organization tasked with strengthening and cultivating a community of inclusion and belonging on campus. Its mission is to put into practice two of our school's core values: to strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being.

Beyond the CCES campus, Chandler is a member of the Ida B. Wells Multicultural Society, creating space for women of color and their allies to freely share about their experiences and seek solutions to issues regarding race, gender, and equity. While others may recognize Chandler’s generosity and hard work, Chandler views the experience as one that has also helped her grow – empowering her voice as a “leader, speaker, and friend.”

Chandler also serves as the president for the Greenville County Youth Board which seeks to create a transformation in youth culture, enhance school prevention programs, as well as provide a youth voice to community awareness around the areas of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. Again, Chandler is grateful for what the experience has taught her. “The work has really grown my perspective on Greenville and greater society because I’m not just looking through one lens.”

Unsurprisingly, Chandler brings this same passion, dedication, and grace to the classrooms and the courts where she has been playing volleyball for the Cavs since 7th grade. Her love for the sport began the year prior, when her mother enrolled her in a volleyball camp. From that moment, she found not just a sport, but a community. “Everyone was so kind, honest, and supportive—that’s what made me stick with volleyball,” she recalls. Deep connections with her teammates are one of Chandler’s favorite aspects-- due to the team’s smaller size in comparison to other schools, she’s created bonds that go beyond the sport. Volleyball has taught her invaluable lessons in mental toughness, resilience, and the importance of moving forward after making mistakes. Jamiyae Mattress, Head Varsity and JV Volleyball Coach, describes Chandler as “a mentor to younger players, always offering guidance, support, and encouragement.” She noted that her calm, steady demeanor and positive attitude have been a source of reassurance and has helped create a cohesive and motivated team environment. Chandler credits her time with CCES volleyball as a key factor in developing her into a resilient, consistent, and nurturing leader to her teammates as well as in the community.

“Chandler consistently shows up as her authentic self - confident, gracious, wise - and this empowers others to show up in similar ways,” says John Mark Elliott. “I've seen her bring out the best in her peers - she ups the ante in discussion, a brainstorming session, or even in moments of vulnerability. She proverbially sets wide tables for people to gather and delight in the goods of community.”

Looking ahead, Chandler plans to major in International Business with a focus on Chinese, a passion she has nurtured since Middle School. Her ultimate goal is to attend law school and work in international corporate law, a path that reflects her commitment to making a global impact. And, as she continues to inspire those around her, we can't wait to see the impact she will make. Congratulations, Chandler!

Click here to check out the Greenville Chamber of Commerce’s announcement and Chandler’s highlight video!

Read More about October Halftime Report: Chandler Sherman '25
CCES First Grade Teacher Anna Brabham Celebrates Differences in her book The Almost Twins
Eli Connaughton Jordan ’86, Graphic Design and Marketing Manager

When Anna Penland Brabham arrived on the Auburn University campus in the fall of 2017, she immediately set about looking for ways to get involved at the large university. A Columbia, SC native, Anna did not know many people at the college, but with her outgoing personality, it did not take long for her to jump in and explore all of the amazing opportunities offered on campus. She never could have imagined that one of those opportunities would introduce her to a new friend and an incredible adventure that would change her life. 

That year, Auburn was launching EAGLES – Education to Accomplish Growth in Life Experiences for Success. Described as a “comprehensive transition program for students with intellectual disabilities,” the new program needed help interviewing 20 students who had been selected as possible participants. Anna volunteered.

“I went to the interview day, and loved everyone I met,” says Anna. “But at the end, I noticed a girl I hadn’t seen yet. I walked over to introduce myself, and she had “Anna” written on her nametag. I said, ‘Hey! My name is Anna too.’”

Almost immediately, the young women noted how much they looked alike, and, as they talked, more similarities emerged. “We call it our Parent Trap moment,” Anna says, referring to the Disney films where twins who had never met discover one another at a summer camp. “It was just this weird recognition. We have the same name. We’re close to the same height. Same hair color and  length. We were dressed so similarly, we were like ‘Wait a second. This is so weird.’”

This second Anna was named Anna Moates, and, in the Fall of 2018, she would be the first ever student with Down syndrome to attend Auburn.  “When she came, I signed up to volunteer to help students in the EAGLES program move in,” says Anna. “We saw each other, and after that, we literally hung out every day.” She says it was not long before people started calling the pair “the twins.”

They remained close through Anna’s senior year when she was enrolled in a class on children’s books as part of her education major. “On the last day of class, my teacher was talking about how people with disabilities are usually not represented in books,” Anna says. “And, if they are, the message is something  along the lines of how we are all the same no matter what because it’s what’s on the inside that counts.” 

While Anna agreed that it was a lovely sentiment, she couldn’t help thinking about Anna M., her “twin,” and the fact that while they had many similarities, there were also some pretty significant differences.  She spoke to Anna M. about it, and, by the end of the conversation, the two had decided to write a book together. 

“The whole point is that, yes, we have our similarities, but we also have differences and not only is that okay, we can celebrate them,” says Anna. They wrote about their relationship, and about all the things they love to do together – playing games, hanging out, cooking, singing in the car. But they also wrote about their differences. 

“The whole point of this is to tell people it’s okay to ask someone to repeat themselves, it’s okay to be different, it’s okay to have a friend that needs your help and who can help you,” Anna says. Ultimately the “twins” decided to title the book, The Almost Twins

They self published the book, and it was  released on Amazon in 2021 – an incredible accomplishment in and of itself. They had no idea it would take off in the way it did. Soon they were traveling and speaking all over the country. “We were contacted to speak at conferences and schools, and we were keynote speakers at the National Down Syndrome Conference in New Orleans.”

Anna loves to read the book to her students and shared it with her CCES first graders in the first few weeks of teaching here. “My students love the stories and the pictures, but also they really understand it. So many of them see the parallels in their own lives. I’ll hear ‘oh my cousin is blind’ or ‘I have a neighbor that has a little trouble talking and I talked to them yesterday after we read your book.’” 

For Anna, and for Anna M., that means the book is a roaring success. “From a very young age, we are affected by what we see,” Anna says. “Representation matters. And loving each other matters, and celebrating your differences matters. Life would be so boring if we were all the  same.” 

Click here to learn more about The Almost Twins.

Book: Amazon Link  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@almosttwins2207

Instagram:@the.almost.twins

 

 

Read More about CCES First Grade Teacher Anna Brabham Celebrates Differences in her book The Almost Twins