For Arianna (Ari) Gill, the study of language has never been just about vocabulary lists or grammar rules, it’s been about connection, culture, and curiosity.

Ari’s journey began at Christ Church Episcopal School, where she enrolled in Primer and remained through her junior year. Just before her senior year, her family relocated to Colorado following her father’s new job opportunity. While her time at CCES ended a year earlier than expected, the foundation she built here continues to shape her path in meaningful ways.

Now a student at University of Southern California (USC), Ari is studying Human Biology while continuing to pursue one of her greatest passions: Mandarin Chinese. Her dedication to language learning was recently highlighted in an article she authored for USC US-China Institute, titled “Fewer College Students are Studying a Foreign Language—Here’s Why I’m Not One of Them.” In it, Ari reflects on the declining number of college students studying foreign languages and makes a compelling case for why that trend is worth reversing.

For Ari, the motivation to learn Mandarin is deeply personal. Inspired by her grandfather who grew up in Singapore, and a desire to learn more about him and where he grew up, she began studying the language in Middle School. What started as an academic interest quickly grew into something more profound.

Ari credits much of her growth and love for Mandarin to her time at CCES, especially under the guidance of Middle and Upper School Mandarin teacher Jane Chen. “She made all the difference,” Ari shares. “Ms. Chen’s vibrant personality and genuine love for both the language and her students stood out immediately.” Through Ms. Chen’s teaching, Ari began to see Mandarin not just as a subject, but as a meaningful and practical way to engage with the world.

From her early days in 7th grade to her later years in high school, Ari’s passion deepened. Today, she describes herself as having a working proficiency in Mandarin and continues to actively engage with the language at USC. She is involved with the university’s U.S.- China Institute, where she serves as an ambassador, helping welcome and connect with exchange students.

Ari describes learning a new language as an art, one that extends far beyond words. “You don’t just learn a language,” she explains. “You experience a culture.” It’s a perspective that has guided her academic journey and continues to influence how she connects with others in her day to day life.

Her story is a testament to the lasting impact of meaningful mentorship and a strong educational foundation. Though her path took her from Greenville to Colorado and now to Los Angeles, Ari carries with her the lessons and relationships that helped spark her passion.

We are so proud of Ari and all she has accomplished, and we can’t wait to see where her love of language and learning takes her next!

The Christ Church Episcopal School community gathered for an evening of connection and camaraderie at the second annual Cavalier Networking Night, a growing tradition that continues to strengthen ties across generations of Cavaliers. Hosted by the CCES Alumni Association and generously sponsored by Coldwell Banker Caine Realtor Thomas Cheves and Velda and Jackson Hughes, the event brought together nearly 150 attendees.

Alumni from a wide range of class years were joined by parents of current students, parents of alumni, and members of the greater Upstate community. The diverse mix of guests created a dynamic atmosphere filled with meaningful conversations, new introductions, and renewed friendships. From first handshakes to familiar reunions, the evening provided a wonderful setting for connection, relationship building, professional networking and fun.

The program featured remarks from Alumni Association President Carter Lowrance ’94 and Head of School David Padilla, both of whom spoke to the strength of the Cavalier network. The evening’s featured speaker was Dr. Courtney Tollison Hartness, a proud member of the Class of 1995. Dr. Hartness shared insights from her professional journey and reflections on CCES from her experiences as a student, alumna, and now parent of a current student. She affirmed the enduring value of a CCES education and the unique sense of community that pervades school culture. 

As the Cavalier Networking Night concluded, it was clear that this new tradition is here to stay.  With strong attendance and enthusiastic participation, the event continues to build momentum, and the CCES community looks forward to continuing and growing this special tradition in the years to come.

Click here to view the full event photo album. 

Continue reading to enjoy Courtney Tollison Hartness’s complete remarks:

“Good Evening!

While thinking about what I wanted to say tonight, the concept of community was continuously front of mind. I’ve spent the last two years writing a bicentennial history of Furman. The root of the word history is story and when history is taught or written well it is enjoyed as a story. As I was writing about Furman’s move to Greenville, or about the Duke Endowment, or when one of our graduates became President of Finland, I repeatedly realized that Furman is special because of her people, and the same is true of CCES. 

If you go to the CCES website, the opening page offers a simple yet powerful message: “Where You Belong.” You will also see the words: Character. Community. Excellence. Service. 

We know our community is special because we feel it. What is harder, however, is articulating why this community is so special. Why are we grateful to be part of CCES?

In 1959, the year the school was founded, an article in The Greenville News declared that the new school aimed to offer an “academically rigorous education in a Christ-centered environment.” That is a laudable aspiration, but are there are lots of schools with that mission who aren’t thriving as we are over 60 years later. 

At its core, the strength of the community lies in its values-driven, holistic and experientially-based education. 

Yet, there is more… 

Perhaps part of what makes our community special is that it is intergenerational. The 5-year-olds who enter Primer constitute a community, full of fresh promise, and so do their parents, many of whom will develop meaningful bonds over the course of the next 13 years. The teachers, coaches, chaplains, staff, and administrators who teach, mentor, and care as they challenge young minds constitute a community, and so do the Golden Cavaliers, a group of CCES retirees. The graduates who gather at the Alumni Christmas Party every December 23^rd and those who return for reunion years rejuvenate the deep bonds forged during our time as students. Grandparents of current students who were once parents of students pass on an appreciation for CCES that has endured. CCES is a rich tapestry of interwoven micro-communities, bound together by hands old and new. It is a community you can be part of for life. 

Perhaps another part of what makes our community special is that it is cross-cultural. For at least 15 years, Greenville-Spartanburg has boasted the highest per capita international investment in the country. Our local economy is international and the school embraces that internationalism. My son’s first grade class has 3 German students in it. I love going to chapel with my son and singing “This is the Day” in English, Spanish, and German. The school boasts exchange programs – in fact, one of my closest friends at CCES was an exchange student from Surrey, England.

Yet, as the school celebrates and cultivates a curiosity about global cultures, it maintains a deep and sustained focus on the Christian faith and on serving and shaping the Greenville community -- another aspect of why CCES is special. In the spirit of St. Martin, who teaches us to care for others, the school offers a class in Service Leadership, but those values are also deeply embedded in the CCES culture. Not a week goes by without a student drive to donate coats, canned food, books, or even gently used musical instruments to those in need. Students routinely venture off campus to donate their time and engage in internships or other activities that complement the curriculum. 

CCES students are out, making a difference for good in Greenville and beyond, and so are the school’s graduates, parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, and others. The imprint of CCES – professionally, philanthropically, and in myriad civic and faith organizations – is strong.  

In conclusion, I want to share my first experience with CCES. It was silly, in hindsight. As a child, my mother and I visited the lower school, which was then located downtown at Christ Church. My only memory is of the woman we met with telling us that classes would often go into the cemetery with crayons and big rolls of white paper that students rolled out over the grave markers and colored so that the inscription from the marker would imprint on the paper. Well, the prospect of that terrified me enough to stay away. 

Fast forward several years. I approached my parents and asked if we could consider CCES again. Thankfully, my visit to the Cavalier Drive campus was much less scary. I was happy, motivated, and grateful as I began my CCES experience. 

Throughout the rest of my time at CCES, I remained happy, motivated, and grateful…grateful to be part of the school and really grateful that my childhood fears of cemeteries had not stymied one of the best decisions of my life. 

Fast forward a few decades. When it came time to send our oldest child to school, there was no question about where I wanted him. A year and a half ago, when we dropped our son off for his first day of Primer, I was still feeling happy, motivated, and grateful, and more importantly, he seemed that way, too. 

Professors like to inspire contemplation, so in that spirit, I’ll conclude with a challenge that I hope will prompt reflection and action. Why are you grateful to be part of this community? And, how can you best contribute to it, knowing that the CCES of the future depends on us?”

–Dr. Courtney Tollison Hartness ‘95

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.

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.

Sometimes the best groups come together in the most unexpected ways. That was the case for The Jerries—a band made up of CCES students Jerry Gan ’27, Powers McKissick ’26, and Anabelle Levy ’26, along with alumni Hunter Frederick ’25, Alex Greene ’25, Sierra Kremenliev ’25, and John Walter Whisenhunt ’25. Different ages, different friend groups, and different paths, yet their shared love of music created something unforgettable.

The idea began with the encouragement of CCES Upper School Theater Teacher, Reed Halvorson, who encouraged the students to try playing together; each member bringing their unique skillset ranging from violin to drums, their first performance was a night to remember. Their inaugural show took place during the Young Artist Series in September of 2024. From there, The Jerries hit the stage at Prom in the spring of 2025, and later capped off their run with a memorable final concert on the eve of the Class of 2025 graduation. That last show wasn’t just about music—it was about giving back. The Jerries chose to host the concert as a fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House, raising $2,500 through ticket and merchandise sales.

For Jerry ’27, a member of the Teen Leadership Board for the Ronald McDonald House, the cause was deeply personal. He underwent a medical procedure over the summer, and seeing his parents juggle between caring for him and managing the hassles of being away from home, he learned firsthand just how many challenges families face in these situations. “I’ve always valued the RMHC’s mission,” Jerry shared. “These families are especially vulnerable and there are not a lot of charities like the RMHC that care for them. I’m really thankful that I was able to help in some small way.”

The Jerries’ benefit concert was made possible by the support and creativity of CCES Assistant Technical Director JT Rider, Technical Director and Production Manager John King, and Director of the Arts Katie Leckenbusch, who all helped bring the event to life. Jerry also shared special thanks for Upper School Counselor Zay Kittredge ‘06, who stayed through their entire dress rehearsal, the CCES security team for ensuring the event ran smoothly, and the Head of Upper School, Wes Clarke, who gave the green light for the concert and helped coordinate security. “We couldn’t have done it without each and every single one of them,” Jerry emphasized.

When asked about their time together, The Jerries looked back with nothing but fondness. They laughed about the funny moments, remembered the thrill of performing, and expressed gratitude to CCES for giving them the space to create music and memories together. Some of their favorite moments were simply being together on campus the day before graduation, knowing they were part of something bigger than themselves.

This summer, the group reunited once more—not on stage, but at the Ronald McDonald House to present their $2,500 check. It was a moment none of them will soon forget.

With four members now in college and three still at CCES, fans can’t help but wonder—will there ever be a reunion tour? While the future is uncertain, one thing is for sure: The Jerries left a lasting impact on CCES and the Greenville community. And in the meantime, you can relive a bit of their magic by streaming The Jerries’ Christmas Album on Spotify.

Christ Church Episcopal School hosted a celebratory evening honoring two championship coaches, a decorated athlete, and a distinguished teacher. The Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes alumni who achieved extraordinary athletic accomplishments while they competed as CCES student-athletes, as well as retired coaches who made exceptional contributions to the CCES athletics program during their coaching tenures. The 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees includes girls tennis coach Sherry Adams, multi-sport standout Demetrius Anthony ’14, and boys golf coach Kristen Rooke. The Alumni Association also presented its Mary B. Roper Distinguished Teacher Award to retired Upper School mathematics instructor Gayle Key. Alumni, faculty and staff, coaches, friends, and family gathered in the Rooke Theater of the Hartness Performing Arts Center to celebrate and pay tribute to the impact of these outstanding individuals on the CCES community.

Coach Sherry Adams 

Sherry Adams coached varsity girls tennis from 2006-2023. Under her leadership, the program earned 13 state championships and dominated the competition. Adams garnered numerous Coach of the Year recognitions including the South Carolina High School League Coach of the Year in 2013, High School Sports Report Statewide Women’s Coach of the Year in 2010, and the USTA/SC Coach of the Year in 2016. Numerous players during her tenure went on to play at the collegiate level.

Nominations received from colleagues, numerous former players, and parents expressed deep admiration and gratitude for Sherry’s impact on the program and student athletes. Parent Christine Bruner cited Adams’s “amazing capacity to turn what is a very individual sport into a bonded team. She consistently cultivated a team who genuinely cared for one another and who sought to bring honor to the Christ Church community.” Ella Williams ’25 described Adams as “more than a tennis coach. She was a mentor and a life coach, instilling values and wisdom in every player she coached.” Bobby Austell, former CCES varsity boys tennis coach and 2023 Hall of Fame inductee, presented the honor to Adams during the ceremony.

After thunderous applause, Adams delivered acceptance remarks that inspired both laughter and sentimental tears from the crowd. Though Adams aspired to be a positive role model for her players, she reflected, “I was the one being blessed all of those years.” Her teams became family, and the shared experiences were abundant. “Tennis is the only sport that starts with love,” she said.  “Thank you all for the love shown to me. Any achievement I had would not have been possible without this village of people.”

Demetrius Anthony ’14

Demetrius Anthony left his mark on CCES athletics as a member of the varsity football, track and field, and basketball teams during his junior and senior years. As quarterback of the football team, he was a two-time region and state champion and was named the Division 1A Player of the Year in 2013.  He helped lead the track team to a state championship in 2014 and broke the CCES record for the 400-meter relay.

Anthony’s friends and teammates who nominated him described him as an exceptional athlete, but also a man of integrity and character. Joshua Jackson ’16 called Anthony “not only a strong leader, but also humble and kind.” Another teammate, Dorien Dickey ’15, shared that he admires Anthony for “consistently demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship, leadership, and commitment to excellence in every facet of his athletic endeavors.” Rodney Hinton, a former member of the CCES Board of Trustees and 2019 Hall of Fame inductee, introduced Anthony during the program.

With humility and gratitude, Anthony addressed the crowd. He called CCES a “place that shaped me” and thanked teachers, mentors, classmates and family who “poured into me in so many ways that I could never fully repay.” Anthony’s remarks referenced lasting lessons learned at CCES as a student-athlete including perseverance, discipline and faith.

Coach Kristen Rooke

Kristen Rooke coached varsity boys golf from 2011-2021. While at the helm of the program, Rooke led her teams to nine state championships, six regional titles, and a win at the prestigious Southern Cross tournament. She was named Regional Coach of the Year in 2014. In a very special presentation, her son and CCES alumnus Whit Rooke ‘14, who was a multi-sport athlete and former assistant coach for the CCES swim team, presented his mother for the Hall of Fame induction.

In their nomination letter, Leslie and John Wofford described Rooke as a “class act” who offered “unwavering support” for her players. “She is loyal, dependable and dynamic, expecting nothing less than excellence” from her teams. Fellow parents Murray and Robert Thompson praised Rooke for her positive influence on their son. “Kristen was more than a coach,” the Thompsons said. “She taught life lessons and became an important role model. She gave the boys confidence and continues to be instrumental in their lives.”

In her acceptance remarks, Rooke shared that “being a coach was pure joy.”  She thanked parents, teachers, administration, and family. Most of all, she expressed a love and admiration for the student golfers. With sincere emotion, she shared with the crowd, “My teams were made of amazing young men. I am standing here tonight because of their hard work and dedication. This is for all of us.”

Gayle Key

The Mary B. Roper Distinguished Teacher Award was first presented in 1987. Selected by the Alumni Association, this award honors a current or former faculty member who impacts the alumni community and exemplifies a sincere love for and devotion to the school. Gayle Key joined CCES in 1994 and served with distinction as an Upper School mathematics teacher until her retirement in 2012. During her tenure, she held important leadership roles including Math Department Chair, AP Program Testing Coordinator, and College Counselor. Her excellence in teaching and mentorship earned her the Student Council Outstanding Teacher Award in 2000, the Daniel Master Teacher Award in 2000-2001, and induction into the Cum Laude Society in 1999.

Key was nominated by alumnus Rob Slater ’98, who surprised her with a last-minute road trip from Ohio to deliver his heartfelt remarks in person. Slater commended Key as “an incredible instructor and leader in mathematics who inspired me to pursue a degree and career in math and engineering. I am proud to nominate her for this award because of her long-standing dedication, inspiration, and service to her students' success both in and beyond the classroom.” Her former colleagues also praised her contributions. Retired Upper School math teacher Charlie McGee shared, “Gayle was an extraordinary teacher and mentor to fellow faculty members, and her ability to teach mathematical concepts at every level to her students was exemplary.”

In her acceptance remarks, Key fondly reflected on her years of teaching by saying “I had a job that people only dream about.” She was gracious in her thanks to family, friends, fellow honorees, former students, parents, administration and colleagues. “To be recognized and appreciated at this stage of my life is not only a surprise, but an extreme joy,” she said.

Congratulations to our 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees and 2025 Mary B. Roper Distinguished Teacher. Through their contributions and achievements, these individuals have impacted the lives of countless others and elevated CCES’s reputation for athletic and academic excellence. Their legacies will inspire current and future Cavaliers.

See photos from the ceremony here.

For her senior Capstone project, Ella Williams ’25 dreamed of creating something lasting, meaningful, and uniquely her own. That dream became a reality with the publication of her first children’s book, Turtle Time at Edisto Beach.

The story follows a young girl whose attention is fixed on technology during a family vacation. Meanwhile, the turtles of Edisto Beach hatch a clever plan to draw her and her family back to the shoreline, reminding them of the importance of slowing down, savoring the present moment, and cherishing time together. With its themes of simplicity, presence, and family connection, Turtle Time at Edisto Beach carries a message both timeless and timely.

This project was truly a labor of love, bringing together three generations of Ella’s family. Ella wrote the story, while her mother and grandmother collaborated on the illustrations. The result was a published book that beautifully celebrates the importance of family—both in its creation and in its message.

In May, Ella was invited by the Edisto Chamber of Commerce to read her book at the community’s beloved Turtle Fest event—an incredible honor for a newly published author. Turtle Time at Edisto Beach is now available locally at Pickwick in Greenville, Shore ‘Nuff gift store in Edisto Beach, and online through the @turtle_time_at_eb instagram account. .

When asked why she chose a children’s book for her Capstone, Ella credited her advisor, Ms. Paige Sullivan, for encouraging her to think big. Inspired by the lasting impact of Jimmy Ryan ’00’s Capstone project Mice on Main, Ella loved the idea of creating something that could endure long beyond her time at CCES.

Ella joined CCES as a sophomore and quickly became an active member of the school community, including playing on the Cavalier tennis team. During her time here, she embraced new opportunities, challenged herself academically, and poured her creativity into projects that reflected her values. Her Capstone project was no exception, showcasing both her imagination and her deep appreciation for family and tradition.

This fall, Ella begins a new chapter as a freshman at Wofford College, where she is studying pre-law. While her path forward is full of exciting possibilities, the legacy she leaves at CCES through Turtle Time at Edisto Beach will continue to inspire students for years to come. And as for whether more books are in her future? With a smile, Ella replied, “We’ll see.”

Christ Church Episcopal School alumna Emme Patat ’21 has always had a creative spark—but it was during her time at CCES that her passion for filmmaking first began to take shape. Now a recent graduate of Elon University, Emme holds a degree in Cinema and Television Arts with a minor in French and has already co-written and produced three short films, including her acclaimed thesis project, Fading. In Emme’s first role as writer, editor, and director, Fading tells the story of a girl named Lindsey, who has a sudden change in behavior after receiving shocking news, which causes her to isolate from those closest to her.

While at CCES, Emme had the opportunity to take a filmmaking class through Global Online Academy as well as a Documentary Film class with CCES faculty member Owen Riley. Both courses sparked her excitement, which only grew as she honed her editing skills through the Documentary Film class. She continued exploring film through a Film Appreciation course with Reed Halvorson. Throughout her CCES courses, she was able to create and edit countless types of film, including music videos and documentaries, which ultimately inspired her to pursue film school.

Interestingly, film wasn’t always the plan. Emme initially considered studying Environmental Science. But a piece of advice from her mom — "You should go to school for something you love" — helped reroute her journey and led her to Elon University’s film program.

At Elon, Emme found her voice as both an editor and director. “I always loved editing,” she shared, “but I had the opportunity to direct, and I really enjoyed it. I didn’t think I would be a director, but now… here I am.” Her work speaks for itself. Emme’s experience includes components of the writing, production, and editing of three short films: Three’s a Crowd, Hung Up, and most recently Fading, her senior thesis film, to which she also directed. Hung Up has already been selected for multiple film festivals, and Fading is currently in submission for upcoming festivals.

Beyond the classroom and film set, Emme also found time to contribute creatively to her sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi, by producing and editing their recruitment videos, another opportunity that allowed her to sharpen her storytelling skills in a different setting.

With a strong foundation built at CCES, the support of her parents, and a rewarding college experience behind her, Emme is now setting her sights on the film industry. Her long-term dream? Working in Los Angeles as a film editor. And if her past work is any indication, there’s no doubt Emme is well on her way.

On May 22, 2025, we gathered at Avenue in downtown Greenville for a truly special evening—the Head of School Dinner (previously known as the Headmaster Dinner) honoring the Christ Church Episcopal School Class of 2025. This event marked a one of the final times our seniors came together as students before commencement, a meaningful tradition that has taken place for over four decades. The atmosphere was filled with excitement, joy, and reflection as we celebrated their journey and looked ahead to all that’s to come—including bright futures at institutions like Yale, Princeton, Clemson, USC, the United States Air Force Academy, and many more.

All 109 members of the senior class were in attendance, joined by their senior advisors and members of the CCES Leadership Team. Head of School David Padilla, kicked off the evening with a warm welcome, setting the tone for a night to remember.

The program featured thoughtful and inspiring words from guest speaker and CCES Alumni Association President, Robert DiBenedetto '10, who spoke about the importance of being a CCES alumnus. He encouraged the seniors to embrace their new role in the CCES community, highlighting the value of staying connected and the lifelong pride of being a Cavalier. I had the pleasure of also sharing a few words as Director of Young Alumni Relations and Communications, welcoming the Class of 2025 into our vibrant alumni network.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening came at the end of the program, when each student received a gift bag from the CCES Alumni Relations Team. Inside were special keepsakes: a newly designed CCES Alumni shirt, a custom alumni mug, a personal note from me, and—perhaps the most heartwarming—a drawing from each student’s Primer buddy. It was a meaningful reminder of how far they've come and the bright future that lies ahead.

To our incredible Class of 2025- I’m so excited for all that’s ahead for you. The Alumni Relations Team and I are cheering you on every step of the way!

See photos from the Head of School dinner here.