Tower Summer 2020

FEATURE ARTICLE
Bold Women and Their Impact
on MVA
Page 18
SUMMER 2020

HEADMASTER
Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring
2019-20 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Mr. Tim J. Bach
Mr. Jon Frere
Mrs. S. Renee Lundy ’79
Mr. Michael Mason ’84
Dr. Sydney McPhee
Mr. Gregory L. Nelson
EX-OFFICIO
Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring
Mr. Sean Parks
Mr. T. Scott Ohmstede
Mrs. Lori Specht ’84
Mrs. Sandra O. Stephens
Dr. Walter L. Stephens
STAFF
Andrea Colby
Michele Kanikovsky
Ginny Holm
Kimberly Braden
Catherine McKinney
Editor-in-Chief
Creative Director
Creative Editor
Photographer
Photographer
Contributors include faculty, staff, students, and parents
of Montverde Academy.
ADDRESS CHANGES AND
CORRESPONDENCE
Montverde Academy
The Tower Magazine
17235 Seventh Street
Montverde, FL 34756
Above: Sunset on campus
On the cover: Meristell Shackelford, Khrystal Phiri, Kalena Meyers,
Lynne Moore, and Roberta Emerson
The Tower Magazine is published exclusively for the alumni, parents, students, friends,
faculty and staff of Montverde Academy. It is intended to bring the latest news and
information about the Academy's growth and ongoing events.
Every attempt has been made to present the information and listings in The Tower
magazine as accurately as possible. We apologize if there are any discrepancies and
would ask that you forward any amendments to our office. It is our policy to correct
significant errors of fact in a timely fashion.
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2 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

SUMMER 2020 | VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2
ring true and relevant.
“Nothing will work unless you do.” –
Maya Angelou
The past couple of months have been
among the most challenging I can
recall, professionally and personally. As
social creatures, the process of
navigating a shift to working from home,
video calls, social distancing, online
schooling, and fear of the unknown, has
drastically changed the way we live and
work, making Maya Angelou’s quote
IN THIS ISSUE
18
40
46
Table of Contents
Bold Women and Their Impact
on MVA
Pursuing Excellence in the
Classroom, Athletics and Fine Arts
Making MVA Excellent - the Women
Behind the Scenes
We must keep working and moving forward. I am happy and proud
to be part of a team that has kept moving forward without missing a
beat, reinventing ways to do things to keep moving forward without
compromising the excellent quality of what we do. Some things have
screeched to a halt and aren’t working, but I’m happy to say that
MVA continues to work!
In this issue of the Tower magazine, we congratulate our Class of
2020. While they were not able to enjoy a typical senior year, we
celebrate and honor them! Be sure to read the Parents' Perspective
on page 16 that features insight from six families of graduating
seniors who have been at MVA since Pre-K3!
We also share the stories of the amazing, bold women of MVA
in our features. The leaders, administrators, teachers, coaches,
professionals, and more – who do more than just make MVA work,
they ensure we excel. Read about the ladies who were and are key
to the formation of MVA – Mrs. Carpenter, Mrs. Stephens and Mrs.
Kesselring, who have played key roles in MVA’s culture, growth and
success. Then learn about women who make the work meaningful
and memorable for our students in the classroom, athletics and
the arts. Behind the scenes, there are more wonderful women
working hard, ensuring details that you don’t pay much attention to
are addressed with the same commitment to excellence that runs
throughout MVA.
You will also find recaps of Eagle sports and fine arts, as well as an
update on progress of the new Middle School Building. Alumnus
Dolly Rath ('18) shared an article about her experience being
"homeless" on her alternative spring break and alumni notes will
catch you up with what fellow alumni are up to.
CONTENTS
Message from the Head of School 4
Valedictorian - Jesse Jones 10
Salutatorian - Molly Smith 11
College Acceptances 12
Drive-by Graduation 14
Parents' Perspective 16
Lower School Teacher of the Year 22
Employee Spotlight 26
Time to Lead Update 28
Thank You Donors 30
Middle School Teacher of the Year 44
Sports Wrap Up 50
Fine Arts Update 52
Remembering Daniel Mills 57
Upper School Teacher of the Year 58
Student Spotlight 59
Alumni Relations 60
Alternative Break 61
Alumni Spotlight 62
Class Notes 68
We keep doing the work to improve, achieve and excel. “Still. I rise.”
I hope you enjoy this issue and I welcome feedback, so please share
your thoughts with me at andrea.colby@montverde.org.
Kind regards,
Andrea Colby
Director of Communications
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 3

Honoring
Women in
Leadership
By Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring, Head of School
As one of eight siblings, my wife grew up in
an Irish Catholic family in the small town of
Luzerne, Penn. Her grandfather, father and
uncles collectively ran the family’s large-scale
Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring
site construction and property management
business. Struggling in the early years, the family business prospered amidst the catastrophe of
flooding that occurred in the Wyoming Valley in 1972. The Connolly Construction Company was
awarded the project to rebuild the levy system in addition to other restoration projects. A crisis
had become an opportunity.
The family of ten moved out of the second floor apartment
above a gas station the company managed to a much
larger colonial home overlooking the riverbank. Their lives
were enriched by the prosperity but the eight children,
all girls and one boy, would soon experience significant
adversity. Sally “McHugh” Connolly, their mother, was seen
as a gentle, loving yet strict mother – a traditional matriarch
whose life’s work was her children and supporting her
husband. Without vilifying her husband, she struggled to
manage the ramifications of a too frequent relationship
between the hard labor of construction work and the
soothing nature of alcohol consumption. That proved to
complicate a large family but in keeping with the times, Sally
was determined to shield her children from the side effects
of a husband and father too frequently under the influence
of alcohol.
At the age of 18, with three older and three younger
siblings, Maureen received the devastating news that her
mother had been carried to the hospital having experience
a sudden brain aneurysm. Tragically, the children lost
their mother. What followed was an unusual journey that
redefines woman empowerment.
With several siblings still in high school, Maureen was just
embarking on her freshmen year at College Misericordia in
Dallas, Penn. Their father became completely lost without
Sally, who had performed the lion’s share of parenting.
Sadly, the frequent relationship with alcohol became greater
and further disrupted the household. Without their mother
to shield them, the older siblings stepped forward to serve
as parental figures. In unspeakable fashion, their father
placed their family home for sale forcing the children to rent
a home and sue their father for child support. In addition to
schooling and college, the siblings had to take on jobs to
earn income to pay living and schooling expenses.
The oldest children took on the largest responsibility,
sacrificing much of their own youth to assure that their
younger siblings had a proper education and an opportunity
to become independent. At family gatherings, there are
always stories told – memories of sibling arguments while
cramped in a small rental home, or stories of the younger
children navigating high school with older siblings having to
appear at their Catholic school to sort through disciplinary
issues that had occurred. Not at all the normal experiences
young adults would typically face. Despite the significant
adversity, each of the siblings earned a college diploma, and
several earned graduate degrees or beyond.
My wife possesses an enormous strength predicated upon
the soul of her mother and the life lessons of having to
4 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

ecome independent, putting herself through college and
graduate school while also doing what she could to support
her siblings. While most of her siblings remained in or near
their Pennsylvania home, Maureen was the exception to
move to Maryland to accept a teaching position in special
education working with early childhood programs. Those
who have worked in the field of special education know that
it takes a particular intellect and strength of heart to work
with children who have special needs. While serving in her
position, Maureen and I were introduced by a mutual friend.
We met in February of 1992, got engaged in October of
1992 and married in June 1993.
When I consider the magnitude of circumstances she faced
and the outcomes she achieved, she was the first woman
I thought of when we decided to dedicate this issue of the
Tower Magazine to Women in Leadership. Maureen has
always had a desire to nurture her own career yet always
supportive of our life together as educators in a boarding
school environment. She took a hiatus from working
with special needs children when we moved to Florida in
1999 to serve as the Director of Admission at Montverde
Academy. After one year, she knew her passion was in
the classroom. She worked with our students providing
support services before returning to early childhood when
our Lower School opened in 2003. After serving in that
capacity for a number of years, she took on the position of
Director of Learning Support Services where she continues
to serve today. She has become invaluable to seeing that
our students with learning differences are provided the
resources and opportunities to achieve success. The work
of her department and her staff have seen many children
achieve great success and transition on to competitive
colleges and universities.
“
I am blessed to have a strong woman
as a spouse, a work partner and mother to
our children. In each of her roles she has
performed with strength and goodness –
independent in her own right, well-educated
and highly capable – a role model for our
young women that despite adversity, your
opportunities for success are what you make
of them.
Kasey C. Kesselring
”
Dr.
a strong woman as a spouse, a work partner and mother
to our children. In each of her roles she has performed with
strength and goodness – independent in her own right,
well-educated and highly capable – a role model for our
young women that despite adversity, your opportunities for
success are what you make of them. The men in her life
were largely absent at pivotal stages of her life; she relied
on herself and the collective strength and determination of
her sisters to overcome adversity and achieve success
and independence.
My tribute to her is something she would not aspire for or
ask; she doesn’t seek the limelight; she seeks the outcomes
and those outcomes are evidence of her success.
In addition to her professional work, she also serves as an
important part of my role as Head of School. As a couple,
we often host many functions in our home for the benefit of
the school community as well contributing time and energy
to a number of community initiatives.
In August 2000, a little more than a year after we moved to
Florida, our campus home caught fire in a thunderstorm and
we lost the vast majority of our belongings. A few months
later, I was diagnosed with cancer and spent most of 2001
in chemotherapy and radiation treatments; our children were
three and five at the time. Amid those challenges, Maureen
exhibited a strength no doubt developed in those formidable
years when most young people are taking advantage of
the frivolity of being a college student, she was rising to the
occasion of very early adulthood facing circumstances most
would not fathom at that age.
While my role as Head of School places us squarely on
stage at work and in the community, I am blessed to have
Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring and his wife, Maureen
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 5

Together we are better.
Social distancing had everyone missing friends. So we organized some drive-by photo shoots
with our families who had a ton of fun stylizing their photos and invited our families to share
photos for us to post on social media to keep us connected. From serious to silly, we can sure
see the personalities come through! Check out the photos and a big thank you to all of our
families who participated in the fun!
The Potempa Family
The Cosgrove Family
Sebastian Orozco Ziliana Hinds Keira Seaney Joseph Bobilin
The Turnquist Family
The Guerard Family
The JeBailey Family
6 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

The Maney Family with SIMA Students
Diane Robertson
David Jones
Lexy Cazenave
The Paulsen Family
Christopher Wathington
Christian Perez
The Bostocky Family
The Rath Family
Edielys Negron
The Smith Family
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 7

250 45
GRADUATES
SENIORS
GRADUATED CUM LAUDE
855 COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
Graduates were accepted to 855 colleges
and universities
19,430 hours
of community service completed by
the Senior class
8 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

4.2
Average GPA of the Cum
Laude Society
14.2 MILLION
Graduates were offered more than 14.2 million
dollars in collegiate scholarships
2.3 MILLION
Our athletes alone earned 2.3
million dollars in scholarships
37
COUNTRIES
The class of 2020 had 37
countries represented
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 9

CLASS OF 2020
Valedictorian
Jesse Jones
By Dr. Anne Browdy, Upper School Math Teacher
Montverde Academy’s Valedictorian for the Class of 2020
is Jesse Jones. Jesse plans to attend Babson College in
Wellesley, Mass., in the fall to study Business Administration
and Management with a concentration in Entrepreneurship.
Jesse will also be a member of their men’s basketball team.
His goal is to start his own business one day and hopes to
serve his community through this business.
I had the pleasure of having Jesse as a math student in
his junior and senior years as his AP Calculus AB and AP
Calculus BC teacher. He was an excellent math student
who embraced the challenges of studying such a difficult
subject. He went above and beyond while trying to master
this formidable material.
Jesse’s determination for success has compelled him
to excel academically in numerous Honors and AP level
courses throughout his high school career. Additionally, he
has served as the President of the National Honor Society,
the Secretary of the Science National Honor Society, and
is a member of the French National Honor Society and the
Cum Laude Society. He is a Distinguished Scholar and
earned the MVA 2020 Scholar Athlete of the Year honor.
in basketball. He has been a member of our Center for
Basketball Development (CBD) Post Graduate/National
team and MVA’s nationally-recognized Varsity Basketball
Team. One highlight of his basketball career at MVA was the
game in which he made nine out of 11 baskets from 3-point
range. He is a student-athlete with a high basketball IQ and
an uncanny ability to make the right play at the right time.
Furthermore, Jesse enjoyed being part of our Basketball
Buddies program where he found rewarding to work with
our younger students, serving as a positive role model for
Lower School students.
Jesse is an extremely motivated individual and I have no
doubt that he will achieve all goals he sets for himself. It
has truly been an honor for me to have been Jesse’s math
teacher and to have gotten to know such a fine young man.
Jesse’s character is outstanding. He is polite and treats
everyone he meets with respect, received the Good
Citizenship Award all four years of Upper School and
views obstacles in his path as challenges to overcome
and opportunities for intellectual and personal growth.
He is open to the diversity of perspectives that the MVA
environment offers, even those points of view that may
challenge his own. The person he looks up to the most is
his Dad, who he credits with teaching him many life lessons
and has been one of his greatest supporters.
An exemplary student in the classroom, he is also an
outstanding member of our school community. He has
proudly participated on two Night for the Cure Teams
where he helped to raise money for cancer research. A
cornerstone to his experience at MVA is his participation
10 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

CLASS OF 2020
Salutatorian
Molly Smith
By Jim Seaney, Upper School Media Arts Teacher
Legacy. To leave a lasting one is a powerful motivator that
people driven by success hope to achieve after a lifetime
of work. To leave a legacy on the first turn of life is almost
absurd. While her story is far from complete, Molly Smith, 2020
Montverde Academy Salutatorian, is leaving behind just that…
a legacy.
Molly is a walking billboard for the impact that an MVA education
can have for a child. She walked through MVA’s door for Pre-K3
fifteen years ago, and walks out the door headed to Yale.
Molly’s path to the Ivy League was built on the usual ingredients:
hard work, desire, grit, tears, passion, and enough stubborn
pragmatism to remind us all that she did it her way.
During her eighth-grade year at MVA, Molly found her voice in
filmmaking. With a passion for social change, she set out to
leave her mark behind the lens of a camera. When I arrived at
MVA to teach film two years ago, I was told Molly was special.
I admittedly scoffed at the notion that she could be as talented
as what I was being told. My expectations and what others
perceive as great can be different things entirely. In my mind, she
was going to have to prove it. She did. And then some.
Molly has left an indelible mark on the world far beyond the
reaches of MVA with productions laced with passion and
positive messages of change. Her film, “Dear America,” a lyrical
call to action against the plague of gun violence in our schools,
earned her first of two prestigious National Student Emmys
awarded by the Television Academy of Arts and Sciences. Molly
wrote, directed and edited the film that went viral and landed her
work in the spotlight with local and national media, including the
Today Show.
Her list of credits and wins in the realm of film production are
numerous and include nine Regional and National Emmys,
scores of film festival Best in Show awards, and additional
wins for writing, directing and sound design. Her poetic short
film, “I Don’t Know,” which focused on the inequity of race in
standardized testing and its impact on dreams, swept through
the awards shows, giving the industry its first true glance at
the polished MVA junior. I remember being pulled aside at the
prestigious Palm Beach Film Festival by one of its organizers,
who was virtually speechless at the poise and grace that Molly
had shown as she owned the stage multiple times, sharing her
vision of a world where women filmmakers had the power to
change the world.
In my experience, it’s at this point in the story that young people
start to act like they’ve figured it all out and don’t need anyone’s
assistance. But this is where I believe Molly began to solidify
her legacy. While “I Don’t Know” was a festival darling, “Dear
America” wasn’t gaining the attraction we felt it deserved.
I challenged her to re-cut the piece and at first, she was
reluctant. It was a good film, but I’ve learned that the first step
to improvement is the willingness to tear away what is good,
to resurrect it to become great. Put aside comfort and see
what happens. Which is what she did – and the rest is history.
“Dear America” continues to be a voice of social change and
has helped open doors for Molly to start the second act of her
educational journey with opportunities that dreams are made of.
Midway through her senior year, Molly received the Cameron
Impact Scholarship which awarded her tuition and fees to any
university that she chose to attend. It was a welcome respite
to the stress of maintaining a 4.4 GPA, multiple AP courses,
completing a passion project documentary on modern feminism,
AND starting a pom squad to build school spirit at MVA. While
her academic choices were many, Yale was the right fit. Just
as Montverde Academy embraced Molly with the latitude and
support to cement her legacy using film during high school, Yale
will afford her the same opportunities on an even grander scale.
So, what is the ultimate legacy she is leaving for future
generations at MVA? Don’t settle, there’s always more work
to be done. Embrace the challenge, prove to everyone around
you that not gender, nor race, nor creed will hold you back from
chasing your dreams. Find a passion worth fighting for and let
your voice be heard. Congratulations Molly!
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 11

College
Acceptances
Below is the list of college acceptances for the Class of 2020.
Congratulations on your achievements!
Adelphi University
Albany College of Pharmacy and Health
Sciences
American University
Arcadia University
Arizona State University (Main Campus)
Auburn University
Austin Peay State University
Babson College
Barnard College
Barry University
Baylor University
Beacon College
Belmont University
Bentley University
Berry College
Boston College
Boston University
Bradley University
Brandeis University
Bucknell University
Butler University
California College of the Arts
California Polytechnic State University
(San Luis Obispo)
California State University (Long Beach)
Chapman University
Clark Atlanta University
Clemson University
Cleveland State University
Coastal Carolina University
Coker College
College of Charleston
College of William and Mary
Colorado State University (Fort Collins)
Columbia University
Concordia College
Covenant College
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Davidson College
Denison University
DePaul University
Dominican College
Drake University
Drexel University
Duke Kunshan University
Duke University
Earlham College
East Carolina University
Eastern University
Eckerd College
Elon University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
(Daytona Beach)
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
(Prescott)
Emerson College
Emmanuel College
Emory University
Flagler College
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Gulf Coast University
Florida Institute of Technology
Florida International University
Florida Southern College
Florida State University
Fordham University
Full Sail University
Furman University
George Mason University
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Gonzaga University
Grand Canyon University
Hanover College
High Point University
Hofstra University
Hult International Business School
IE University Madrid
Indian River State College
Indiana University (Bloomington)
Jacksonville University
Johns Hopkins University
Johnson & Wales University (North Miami)
Johnson & Wales University (Providence)
Kenyon College
La Salle University
Lake-Sumter State College
Lebanon Valley College
Lees-McRae College
Lehigh University
Long Island University (Brooklyn)
Long Island University (Post)
Loughborough University
Louisiana State University
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University Chicago
Lynn University
Manhattan College
Manhattan School of Music
Marymount Manhattan College
Maryville University
Massachusetts College of Art and Design
McDaniel College
Mercer University
Mercy College
Mercyhurst University
Miami University (Oxford)
Michigan State University
Michigan Technological University
Mid-Plains Community College
Middle Tennessee State University
Millsaps College
Mississippi State University
Montana State University
Mount St Mary's University
New England College
New Jersey Institute of Technology
New Mexico State University (Main
Campus)
New York Institute of Technology
New York University
Nichols College
North Carolina State University
Northeastern University
Northern Kentucky University
Norwich University
Nova Southeastern University
NYU Shanghai
Oklahoma State University (Main Campus)
Oral Roberts University
Oregon State University
Otis College of Art and Design
Pace University (New York City)
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Parsons School of Design at The New
School
Pennsylvania State University (Abington)
Pennsylvania State University (Beaver)
Pennsylvania State University
(Main Campus)
Pepperdine University
Pratt Institute (Main Campus)
Principia College
Purdue University (Main Campus)
Queen Mary University of London
Queens University of Charlotte
Quinnipiac University
Radford University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
12 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Rider University
Ringling College of Art and Design
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rollins College
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Rosemont College
Rutgers University (Camden)
Rutgers University (New Brunswick)
Rutgers University (Newark)
Saint Edward's University
Saint Leo University
Saint Louis University
Samford University
Santa Fe College
Savannah College of Art and Design
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Seattle University
Seton Hall University
Southern Union State Community College
Southwest Baptist University
Spring Hill College
St. Francis College
St. John's University (New York)
St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London
St. Thomas University
St. Bonaventure University
Stetson University
Stevens Institute of Technology
Stonehill College
Stony Brook University
Suffolk University
SUNY at Albany
SUNY at Binghamton
SUNY at Purchase College
SUNY University at Buffalo
Syracuse University
Tallahassee Community College
Temple University
The American University of Paris
The College of Wooster
The New School
The Ohio State University (Main Campus)
The University of Alabama
The University of Montana
The University of Tampa
The University of Tennessee (Main Campus)
The University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Dallas
The University of Texas at San Antonio
The University of West Florida
Tiffin University
Trinity College
Tulane University of Louisiana
Tusculum University
Universidad del Sagrado Corazon
Universidad Nacional de La Plata
University of Alabama in Huntsville
University of Arizona
University of Arkansas
University of Bath
University of California (Davis)
University of California (Irvine)
University of California (Los Angeles)
University of California (Riverside)
University of California (San Diego)
University of California (Santa Barbara)
University of California (Santa Cruz)
University of Central Florida
University of Cincinnati (Main Campus)
University of Colorado (Colorado Springs)
University of Colorado (Boulder)
University of Connecticut
University of Connecticut (Avery Point)
University of Dayton
University of Delaware
University of Denver
University of East London
University of Evansville
University of Florida
University of Georgia
University of Houston
University of Illinois at Chicago
University of Illinois at Springfield
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
University of Indianapolis
University of Kentucky
University of Louisville
University of Maine
University of Maryland (College Park)
University of Massachusetts (Amherst)
University of Massachusetts (Boston)
University of Miami
University of Michigan
University of Minnesota (Twin Cities)
University of Mississippi
University of Mount Union
University of Nebraska (Lincoln)
University of New England
University of New Hampshire
(Main Campus)
University of New Hampshire at Manchester
University of New Haven
University of New Orleans
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
University of North Florida
University of Northern Colorado
University of Notre Dame
University of Oklahoma
University of Oregon
University of Pennsylvania
University of Pittsburgh (Bradford)
University of Pittsburgh (Main Campus)
University of Puerto Rico (Mayaguez)
University of Rhode Island
University of Richmond
University of Rochester
University of San Francisco
University of South Carolina
University of South Florida (Main Campus)
University of South Florida (St. Petersburg)
University of Southern California
University of Sydney
University of the Pacific
University of Toronto
University of Utah
University of Vermont
University of Virginia (Main Campus)
University of Washington (Seattle Campus)
Urbana University
Valencia College
Valparaiso University
Villanova University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State
University
Wagner College
Wake Forest University
Wells College
Wesley College
Western Illinois University
Westminster College
Wingate University
Xavier University
Yale University
York University
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 13

Drive-by Graduation
The Class of 2020 celebrated Commencement in parade style on Saturday, May 16
with nearly 100 seniors and their families who live locally. The convoy passed through
the Upper School circle where each senior jumped out of his/her vehicle clad in cap
and gown for a photo on a stage in front of the MVA bell tower which was lit up purple.
While not the traditional graduation ceremony, everyone enjoyed the substitute.
Jesse Jones and family
Molly Smith and family
Tyler Morgan Olivia Chestnut
Jean-Francois “Armani” Grimaud Amy Ankoh
Dr. Kesselring and Renee Lundy ’79
Maya Mills
Anabel Granger and Family
14 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Ingrid Resende
Eriq Danquah, Mohamed Traore, Edward Mensah, Mamadou Fall
Peytann Tamasi
Dave Mirlaya, Laurens Bell, Moussa Sabaly, Edward Mensah,
Eriq Danquah, Mamadou Fall, Issaka Salifu, Mohamed Traore,
Prince Owusu, Samuel Odame, Emmanuel Hagan
Nicholas Andrade and Family
AJ Aziz
Jarvis Evalle
Hezekiah Destinoble
Garrett Hamm, Nikolas Schmid, Tyler
Morgan, Henry McDonnell, Michael Flores,
Ethan Williamson
Pranav Gupta, Taylor Turnquist, Joseph “JoJo” Coffey, Sydney Schmitt
Khushi Bisht, Jaida Forbes,
Addie Gerkin, Lauren Owen
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 15

By Andrea Colby, Director of Communications
Montverde Academy launched its Pre-K3 program in
2003, making this year’s Class of 2020 the second class
to graduate where students could have spent their entire
school career at MVA. Six of our graduates have done just
that this year – becoming graduates of the class of 2020.
We’re proud to congratulate Olivia Crosbie, Garrett Hamm,
Madelyn Moore, Heath Nailos, Amelia Salvatori, and Molly
Smith on their graduation and celebrate 15 years of being a
part of the MVA family.
When asked, ‘what about Montverde Academy did your
family value to stay here from Pre-K3 through graduation?’
the same theme emerged – the feeling of community.
“When we became a Montverde Academy family, it was
still a relatively small school,” said the Crosbie family. “We
really valued the one-on-one attention Olivia (’20) and Ethan
(’18) received and that special feeling of community. Mr.
Delmolino was a huge draw for us – his traditional approach
to education, enthusiasm and obvious personal investment
in the kids was appealing. As the school grew and things
changed, that feeling of community remained. There is
no substitute for the commitment the MVA staff has to
educating our kids and keeping them safe.”
The Hamm family shared: “As your child grows and matures
their needs change and as parents your expectations of the
school also evolve. MVA always seemed to know what we
needed next. When Garrett (’20) started school at 3-years
old, the faculty and staff gave us the support and open
communication we needed to know that we made the right
decision. As he grew, MVA helped all of us transition into a
more mature style of communication and always kept us
in the loop. The whole team was instrumental in helping us
grow a mature, well-rounded young man. MVA is not just a
school, it’s an extended part of the family.”
“The sense of community and the diversity within that
community have been of great value to our family,” said the
Moore family. “Knowing that she would grow up in a safe,
nurturing environment in which she could explore a number
of Sawyer, interests Leon, assured Heather, us that and Trey MVA Gantt was the best place for
Madelyn (’20).”
Mrs. Kesselring with Olivia Crosbie
“From the first day when Heath and I stepped into Mrs.
Kesselring’s Pre-K3 class (parents were encouraged to
attend to make a special project with their child before
leaving them), we felt at home,” said the Nailos family. “The
MVA community is a very close-knit group who make you
feel like family. The teachers and faculty genuinely care
about your child and your family. Fifteen years later, we
are so thankful that we trusted MVA with our children’s
education (Heath (’20), Mackenzie (’17) and Kendall (’30)).”
“We knew MVA was special on our first visit to campus,”
said the Salvatori family. “Amelia (’20) was immediately
comfortable, and jumped right in to the sandbox – literally,
we had to convince her to get out. On her first day of
Pre-K3, Mrs. Kesselring began with her traditional reading
of “The Kissing Hand,” and once complete, Amelia happily
waved us away. From then on, she has continued to happily
wave us away because she has always felt comfortable,
secure and supported. It’s truly a blessing to have a school
that feels like an extension of home. In just three short
years, we will have another Pre-K3 - 12 “Ancient Guard”
graduate with Izzy (’23)!
For these six students, great teachers and coaches have
had a strong influence on their development.
“There have been so many amazing teachers along the
way,” said the Smith family. “Mr. Hand (Lower School
teacher) challenged Molly (’20) to enter a writing competition
which sparked her interest as a writer on a whole new level.
Mr. Jonathan Stalma (Upper School Literature teacher)
introduced her to the works of Malcolm Gladwell which
greatly impacted her creative work. Ms. Robert Emerson
16 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Garrett Hamm
Amelia Salvatori
Heath Nailos
Madelyn Moore
(Theatre teacher) encouraged her to try playwriting, which
led to so many opportunities. And of course, Mr. Jim
Seany (Media Arts teacher) has been an incredible mentor
in filmmaking. None of the success she’s achieved would
be possible without his leadership and passion. Whatever
our students’ interests were, faculty and administration
always found a way to create opportunities to challenge and
engage our students.”
The Crosbie family shared: “From the time Olivia was little,
she has wanted to be an artist. Mrs. Tubbs, her Lower
School art teacher, fostered that interest and encouraged
her to pursue her dream. She took advantage of all the
resources offered, enrolling in almost all of the AP art
classes available. Olivia was accepted to some of the top
art schools in the country such as the Pratt Institute in
New York, School of the Art Institute of Chicago and the
Savannah College of Art and Design – which is where she’ll
study in the fall. We know MVA provided the foundation for
her success.”
“While Heath always succeeded and thrived at MVA, it
wasn’t until his sophomore year that he joined the cross
country team at MVA that he truly found his place. Under
the guidance and friendship of Coach Treweek, Heath grew
into the young man he is today. The friendships he made
with his teammates will last well beyond high school. We are
so thankful for this program and the coaches and what it
has done for Heath,” said the Nailos family.
“When Garrett was in Pre-K, he was suspected of having
a processing disorder. Due to the keen faculty eye,
acute attention, support tools, and intensive, short-term
assistance he received, his trajectory changed. He was
accepted to four colleges and earned several scholarship
offers. The MVA Lacrosse Team and Fellowship of Christian
Athletes also provided additional layers of socialization that
encouraged and reinforced team work, accountability and
self-confidence, as well as community service opportunities.
Garrett achieved MVP his senior year and graduated with a
3.88 overall GPA,” said the Hamm family.
The Salvatori family shared: “Amelia has thrived in the
Academy’s Equestrian Program. She’s gained so much
confidence and composure during her 10-year tenure;
she could not have accomplished it without the guidance
and instruction of Ms. Sarah Layden and Ms. Holly
Rosenau. They have genuinely cared about her athletic
and personal growth, pushing her to be her best. It’s been
awesome to see Amelia’s passion for riding and equine
care grow exponentially, resulting in multiple Grand National
Championship ribbons, Athletic Awards and an opportunity
to participate in the Headmaster’s Leadership Institute.
We can’t imagine that she would have had all of these
opportunities without MVA! Now she is trying out for the
Equestrian Team at Savannah College of Art and Design,
where she’ll be studying illustration in the fall.
Our families are truly ambassadors for MVA who speak
from their experience. When asked what they would say
to a prospective family about why they chose MVA, they
responded with comments like:
• MVA has truly been a blessing to our family.
• It isn’t just about the solid education the kids received at
MVA – they also learned to be self-sufficient, responsible,
respectful and goal-oriented.
• It truly feels like an extension of home, like family.
• We were drawn here by the diversity and the international
outlook. We’ve stayed because of the outstanding
academics and the passion of the faculty and
administration.
• There are so many ways to be involved, communication
is outstanding and you are valued as a parent. There
is a culture of diversity and inclusivity at MVA that has
such deep roots. . . and our kids are such positive global
thinkers as a result. They have a strong awareness of the
world, in spite of what you might think of a small private
school – they know they don’t live in a microcosm! As
parents, this has been invaluable.
The Smith Family
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 17

BOLD WOMEN
AND THEIR IMPACT ON MVA
By Andrea Colby, Director of Communications
Montverde Academy’s history dates back to 1912 when
Mr. Henry P. Carpenter established the Montverde Industrial
School to educate children from families of limited means,
and provide them with training for “the heart, head and
hand.” The school opened on September 23, 1912, in a
two-room wooden building and a church, with two teachers
and limited resources. Throughout its long history, the
three longest serving Heads of School, Mr. Carpenter, Dr.
Walter Stephens and Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring, account for
92 of the Academy’s nearly 108 years of existence. They
also had strong, smart and bold women by their side.
Mrs. Carpenter, Mrs. Sandra Stephens and Mrs. Maureen
Kesselring – the first ladies of MVA, have significantly
contributed to the growth and excellence Montverde
Academy has achieved.
“Each of us has been blessed to have very supportive
spouses who have taken very active leadership roles in
the Academy,” said Dr. Kesselring. “Mrs. Carpenter, Mrs.
Stephens and Mrs. Kesselring exemplify the qualities
of effective educational leaders – leading with strength,
empathy and a passion for working with young people.
As it should be, the tenure of each Head of School has
been marked with significant improvement, and each of
those women were a very integral part of that journey
and have served as important mentors and critical role
models for our female students to see women achieving in
leadership roles.”
The early years were marked by fast growth and hard work
by both Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter. Dormitories, a broom
Mrs. Sandra Stephens
factory and a canning factory were constructed on campus
as students helped earn their keep by working in addition
to academics. Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter led the school for
more than 33 years, seeing it though growth of academic
programs, adding athletic, theater and music programs,
fine arts programs and clubs while earning a reputation
for excellence. Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter were a caring
couple who established the long-standing characteristic of
community which continues to be a pillar in MVA’s beliefs.
The next couple to have a significant impact was Dr. Walter
Stephens and Mrs. Sandra Stephens, who invested more
than 40 years of service to MVA. They came to the school
in 1959 with Dr. Stephens serving as a coach and teacher
and Mrs. Stephens working as a receptionist and assistant
to then Headmaster, Mr. Roberts. Dr. Stephens became
Headmaster in 1968 and Mrs. Stephens further immersed
herself in all aspects of MVA.
As a much smaller, mainly boarding school at the time,
the Stephens were both deeply involved with every aspect
of the school, ensuring that the quality of everything was
outstanding. According to Mrs. Renee Lundy ’79, the
eldest Stephens’ daughter and Chair of the MVA Board
of Trustees, they are both very strong-willed people who
worked extremely well together, though she joked that her
father would “fire” her mother every now and then.
Mrs. Stephens was instrumental in making MVA successful,
always taking great care in her work with families who were
sending their children hundreds of miles away to attend the
18 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Academy. “It was important to her that a student’s parents
were confident that their child would be safe and well-cared
for while studying abroad at Montverde Academy,” said Mrs.
Lundy. “My Mom had great empathy for parents and always
treated every child as though he or she was her own child.
I always felt like we were a great big family and my Mom
fostered that sense of community. Campus was surrounded
by orange groves and relatively secluded without much to
do, so outings were focused on school events. We attended
sports and theater events, ate meals in the dining hall all
week, went on trips, or if my parents were out of town, my
sister and I got to stay in the dorms with the big girls. It was,
and continues to be, a big family.”
“
My Mom (Mrs. Sandra Stephens)
had great empathy for parents and
always treated every child as though
he or she was her own child. I always
felt like we were a great big family and
my Mom fostered that sense
of community.
Mrs. Renee Lundy
The Academy’s goal has always been to provide young
’79”
people with educational opportunities while gaining
important life experiences. Whether she was taking a group
of students on a trip to Australia, Europe or China, running
the yearbook, teaching typing, managing the strict dress
code, traveling to recruit students, or one of the many tasks
she did, Mrs. Stephens did it with finesse and style. She
launched and managed the Miss Montverde pageant, which
was a beloved event and at a time when the Miss America
pageant was in its heyday – Miss Montverde was even
crowned by Miss Florida.
Montverde Academy. The time had arrived to shift gears
and Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring and Mrs. Maureen Kesselring
were chosen to take the lead.
Another team to be reckoned with, Dr. and Mrs. Kesselring
arrived at MVA with their young children in 1999. The
Stephens and Kesselrings worked closely together through
the transition.
“It was evident that Sandra was behind everything
that Walter did,” said Mrs. Kesselring. “She was very
instrumental in keeping everything moving. She was
a gatekeeper for Dr. Stephens, skilled in working with
educational agents and placing kids, recruiting, managing
the business side, working closely with the academic team,
and more. She really did it all – with style too! I remember a
parent referring to her as Jackie Onassis, she was always
well dressed and stylish.”
With more than 100 boarding students in grades 7-12 at
the time, a vision was emerging with new leadership, and
a campaign to court day students evolved. The Stephens’
fully supported that vision as Lake County was growing and
the interest in private school was on the rise.
Much like Mrs. Stephens, Mrs. Kesselring became a vital
part of the team where her experience, knowledge and
talent would benefit the Academy. Following a time of
assessing where MVA was, the decision to open a lower
school was made and work began.
Mrs. Kesselring earned a bachelor’s degree in special
education from College Misericordia in Dallas, Penn.
and a master’s degree in infancy and early development
from the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Penn. The
Kesselring children had been attending programs at First
When alumni visit campus, interact on social media or meet
Mrs. Lundy, who is also an MVA alumnus, they always talk
about Dr. and Mrs. Stephens with respect, often referring to
them as family. “Even those who may have struggled when
they were there, have fond memories and credit my parents
with helping them achieve success,” said Mrs. Lundy.
The Stephens’ were adept at navigating a challenging
time for boarding and private schools. Amidst a number
of private schools in the area that closed in the early to
mid-90s, MVA continued to succeed. They successfully
built a fund that has been used and continues to be
used to benefit the Academy’s students. In the late 90s,
the Stephens’ were approaching 40 years invested in
Mr. and Mrs. Henry P. Carpenter
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 19

Miss Montverde 1971 Debi Scogin, Dr. Stephens, Miss Florida Renee Lundy ’79 at Commencement 2017
United Methodist Church where they had met Ms. Meristell
Shackelford. Ms. Shackelford was recruited to help build
the program and Mr. Warren Delmolino, an MVA fixture,
partnered on the administrative side.
As the Lower School started to form, Mrs. Kesselring
jumped into admissions along with Mrs. Marie Szymanski,
the Admissions Director, to actively court young families to
fill classes in the Lower School. Met with enthusiasm, the
Lower School filled a class per grade quickly, with classes
being held in the Conrad-Lehman building. It was so
successful, a building was planned, with the DeWitt family
taking a large role in the process, and within a few years of
its launch, the brand-new Lower School building opened
its doors in 2007 with two classes per grade from Pre-K3
through the fifth grade and Ms. Shackelford as the Dean of
the Lower School.
“We were lucky to get Meristell, and Warren brought his
extensive administrative knowledge to the project for a
great collaborative project,” said Mrs. Kesselring. “I think
Meristell has an excellent sense of leadership and as a
woman and mother, she is nurturing, which is an aspect
that is important to families. She is adept at balancing the
developmental needs with discipline and nurturing, while
understanding children’s development. When we opened
in the new building, I was the Pre-K3 teacher. It’s scary for
parents to leave their children in a stranger’s hands, and I
could relate to parents as a parent. We had an advantage
as women, because we brought our unique perspective
and innate nurturing tendency to create a safe environment
where parents were comfortable, and our team developed
into a second family for our students and their families. It’s
an atmosphere that continues today – that MVA is a family.”
Once the Lower School was opened and moving along,
creative traditions were established for parents to get
involved and be a partner in their child’s learning. Traditions
included an annual reading of, “The Kissing Hand,” to help
Pre-K parents understand that they are nervous as well as
the kids; events like Dads and Donuts and the Christmas
Pageant; center time with changing themes like vegetable
stand, flower shop or bakery; and campus field trips such
as Western week for a visit to the barn for a rodeo and stick
horse race.
All the while, Mrs. Kesselring still had that background in
special education. “One thing I noticed about the students
who were disciplined most often, was that these kids also
had unidentified learning differences. Students who have
the ability, but needed different support, to be successful.
I created the Discovery program that eventually morphed
into Learning Support Services, which was designed to
approach difficulty in academics with the right support –
giving students the help they needed and changing the
perception that parents and teachers had about ‘special
education.’ It was a process. We started it in Lower School,
which then followed students through Middle and Upper
School, helping them continue to succeed and lessening
the supports as they incorporated and built the skills we
shared. The program grew from just me to a staff of five
and an aide now. It’s an important program for students
and parents – having the support while also pursuing the
academic rigor helps students achieve success.”
One great success story that Mrs. Kesselring shared was
the story of a child who had Tourette syndrome, a nervous
system disorder involving repetitive movements or unwanted
sounds. This student would blurt out profanities when he
was anxious and overwhelmed. Mrs. Kesselring advocated
for this child, who was accepted at MVA, and to help him be
successful, took on an educational campaign to teach those
who would be his peers, the faculty and staff about the best
way to help and accept him.
20 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring and Mrs. Maureen Kesselring
“It took our village to help him. As students understood
what would happen, they were also empathetic as I pointed
out, ‘How would you feel if people were laughing at you
for doing something you can’t control?’ We talked about
it at the first assembly of the year and reminders if it was
needed, but as this student rose to Upper School, his
peers would help educate new students as they arrived
and met him. It was really wonderful the way the MVA
community supported him, accepted him for who he was
and helped him be successful,” said Mrs. Kesselring.
While this is only a glimpse of a few, more significant
achievements that Mrs. Kesselring has been a part of,
she has played numerous roles of mother, care-taker,
support system, teacher, and more. As Mom of two young
children settling into a new home, job and community,
she navigated the challenge of rebuilding a home after a
fire burned down the headmaster’s house, supporting a
spouse battling cancer, building a successful school, and
more, she has truly put her heart and soul into
the Academy.
For Mrs. Lundy, things came full circle for her as she joined
the MVA Board of Trustees and became the Board Chair.
She loves being a part of the community that has meant so
much to her and her family throughout the years.
“
We had an advantage as
women, because we brought our
unique perspective and innate
nurturing tendency to create a
safe environment where parents
were comfortable, and our team
developed into a second family for
our students and their families. It’s
an atmosphere that continues today
– that MVA is a family.
”
Mrs. Maureen Kesselring
see Kasey and Maureen embrace this life and organization
– they are wonderful, loving and supportive people – and
continue the legacy that my Mom and Dad were part of,
is fulfilling.”
Women leaders continue to leave a lasting legacy as an
integral piece of the Montverde Academy community
and history. We thank these amazing women for their
contributions and look forward to seeing what else can
be accomplished.
“I’ve been blessed to work closely with Dr. and Mrs.
Kesselring. Dr. Kesselring once had me step up to speak
at Commencement as the keynote speaker cancelled at
the last minute. I was so proud to be called. Even now
just remembering that moment is emotional for me. The
school is really important to me and my family, and to see
how it continues to succeed, with the number of amazing
students going on to successful careers, and to know that
the wonderful sense of community and family that I had
here growing up is still here. My parents still talk about MVA
– it was such a huge part of our lives and we love it. To
Ms. Meristell Shackelford, Mrs. Maureen Kesselring and
Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 21

LOWER SCHOOL
Teacher of the Year Pat Whiffen
By Cyndi Cunningham, Lower School Technology & Theatre Arts teacher
I dwell in possibility...
“Emily Dickinson
Where she walks by a patch of grass, she sees a garden
for students to learn about our relationship to food and the
planet. Where she gazes at a beam of sunlight on an empty
space of counter, she sees an incubator where students
can check with amazed anticipation to see if one of the
chicks has burst through the shell yet. When she passes
sidewalks, trees, lakes, and beautiful blue skies, she sees
backdrops for children to use to create thank you cards
to the Earth. When Pat Whiffen walks into her science lab
at Montverde Academy Lower School, this Teacher of the
Year for the 2019-20 school year brings with her the gift of
invitation for her students to dwell in possibility with her.
Mrs. Whiffen puts science into the hands of her students.
Just as she asks her students to predict how a habitat will
impact and support the organisms that survive there, she
applies the same thought processes in creating a physical
“learning habitat” where young scientists will embrace and
thrive, exploring everything from the properties of sound
to the power of electricity. In her classroom, there are
kid-friendly specimens of rocks, animal skulls and shells
that invite learners to observe and investigate the physical
properties by using their senses, touching, seeing and
feeling the objects. Everything in her classroom contributes
to students owning the process of the scientific method.
One class observes how matter changes and how chemical
reactions create unexpected results, while learning to
share what was noticed and communicate it in scientific
vernacular. Another class will make predictions about the
concepts of the integrity of weighing and measuring different
objects while Mrs. Whiffen probes with her all-important
question, “How do you know?” It is a great teaching
moment for a student to share what he/she learned through
gathering and reporting data, while gaining confidence as
the information is validated and, more importantly, valued.
Mrs. Whiffen’s masterful approach in supporting the learning
process allows students to process on a deeper level while
reinforcing what was just learned. The smiles and non-stop
conversations students have confirm this was work as well
as a wonderful experience!
A Boston native, Mrs. Whiffen welcomes possibility as it
makes life an adventure. She always has entertaining stories
about her wonderful family with strong Polish roots, and her
gratitude for their positive influence is deep as it served her
in future pursuits. With a passion for garment construction
and needle arts (both learned in her youth), her first career
was in the fashion industry where she built a very successful
career as a buyer. She and John, her talented husband, and
Jack and Katie, their children, enjoyed an exciting family
journey. For special summer vacations with her daughter,
she and Katie would pack up the family SUV and head out
without a plan. When they would arrive at a crossroads, in
that very moment they would decide whether to turn right
or left. The result created wonderful memories with the joy
of discovering together a world of unexpected locations and
hidden gems.
It is this willingness to embrace possibility in letting the
things we encounter inform, delight and challenge us that
sets Patricia Whiffen, our Lower School Teacher of the Year,
apart. In the face of COVID-19 that required us to change
our methods of teaching, she immediately discovered new,
accessible ways to keep science fun and engaging. In
response, students and parents sent digital artifacts in the
form of images, videos and writing further reinforcing that
the Lower School community was still engaged in building
scientific knowledge. Of course, they were! If there is one
thing Mrs. Whiffen has taught them, it is that scientific
knowledge comes from the wonder of solving challenges –
and wonder can lead to a planet of possibilities.
Congratulations Mrs. Whiffen!
22 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

LOWER SCHOOL
END OF YEAR PARADE
1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8 9
10 11 12
1. Avinash and Abhiraj Varma
2. Kyra and Jason El-Bacha
3. Talei Price
4. Zarah Paris
5. Haiden DeLong
6. Deborah, Luca and Nina Potempa with Mrs.
Muniz and Mrs. Patterson
7. Lucas Walker and Mrs. Schield
8. Yani, Jan and Victor Rivera
9. The Lewo Family with Mrs. Irizarry and Mrs.
Shirley
10. Charlene Wathington
11. Joseph and Reagan Murphy
12. Akylah Shirley with mom, Lagrane Jefferson
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 23

WHEN I GROW UP...
Doctors, athletes, scientists, teachers, entrepreneurs and more! Every year
the fifth grade class has a special photo shoot for the yearbook. This year
they were asked what they want to be when they grow up and told to have
some fun with costumes.
1
1. Luke Baker
2. Sebastian Orozio
3. Samantha Lafferty
4. Zoe Toth
5. Bridget Robbins
6. Ethan Huynh
7. Akylah Shirley
8. Emilie LaPouble
9. Sophia Hansen
10. Rose Palanti
11. Danny Pfeffer-Morgan
12. Aryanna Muniz
13. Xavier Quinones
14. Christian Perez
15. Constanca Quinta
16. Wiljeanne MarcEstime
17. Dax Pierce
18. Enzo Fatone
19. Caleb John
20. Kamron Brown
21. Jordan Montemayer
22. Lola Rey
23. Skye Douglass
24. Gianni Louys-Moroney
25. Carine Hayes
26. Noor Cheena
27. Braelin Berry
28. Layla Busby
29. Brooke Burton
30. Dhairya Rupareliya
31. Kian Nurani
32. Logan Tempel
33. Kara Shay
34. Alison Ryan
35. Anjika Andrade
36. Gino Garcia
37. PJ Bobilin
38. Lillian Cooper
39. Kyle Barr
40. Kishan Patel
6
12 13 14 15
16
22 23 24 25
26
32 33 34 35
36
24 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

2 3 4 5
7 8 9 10
11
17 18 19 20
21
27 28 29 30
31
37 38 39
40
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 25

MIDDLE SCHOOL
CONSTRUCTION
UPDATE
By Andrea Colby, Director of Communications
Construction on the new Middle School building is well underway and may even be
“under roof” soon. We officially broke ground in November 2019, and construction
has moved along well, with only minor delays related to COVID-19. The new 40,000
square foot, state-of-the-art facility will house all of our Middle School classrooms,
science and technology labs, gymnasium, concession stand area, and lockers,
providing collaborative spaces for students to learn and engage in ways not possible
in traditional classrooms. The building will help the #CUE 2 philosophy come to life.
To date, the first-floor steel has been set, the decking poured and the block has been extended. Steel trusses have
arrived and been set for the roof of the classroom building and adjacent gymnasium. Progress will then move to focus on
the interior of the building. Our estimated completion date of early to mid-February 2021 remains on target.
The Time to Lead Campaign continues as we strive to reach our $5 million fundraising goal, a donation to the campaign
can be made by clicking HERE.
We also have a group of Middle School students who are modeling the leadership traits and characteristics of #CUE2
with a Pathway to Leadership fundraiser (read their story HERE) which they launched earlier this year. By purchasing a
personalized brick, which cost $100 for one, $180 for two or $260 for three, you will leave your legacy and help pave the
pathway to success for our new Middle School building. Please click HERE to purchase and customize your brick!
Thank Class you of 2020 for your continued support!
26 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

TOTAL GIVING FOR 2019-20
$996,773.38
Time to Lead Fund
263 donors
$271,139.71
179 donors
$320,181.69
Unrestricted Fund
Booster Club Fund
189 donors
$279,760.65
Restricted Fund
56 donors
$56,119.48
Arts Alliance Fund
164 donors
$77,620.49
GIVING GROUPS
Faculty and Staff
Grandparents
Value
Alumni
Alumni Parents
Board of Trustees
Friends of the Academy
Current Parents
Alumni Alumni Parents Board of Trustees Friends of the Academy Current Parents Faculty and Staff Grandparents
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 27

Thank you to our generous donors.
Donors $1,000 and above
Anonymous
Mr. and Mrs. John Arellano
Mr. and Mrs. Hector Ariza
Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Aziz
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Barker
Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Barker
Mr. and Mrs. Neil Barnhill
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Becker
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey H. Begovich
Mr. Dean Bell and Mrs. Michele StoryBell
Mr. and Mrs. Samuel J. Bergman
Mr. and Mrs. David Bernatavitz
Mrs. And Mrs. Tamara Bills-McCoy
Dr. Tracy R. Bilski and Mr. Brian T. Bilski
Mr. and Mrs. Judd Bobilin
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Boyle
Mr. and Mrs. Marty Brasher
Mr. and Mrs. Lance Brauman
Mr. and Mrs. Craig Brown
Mr. and Mrs. Kyle Burton
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Campione
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Carter
Mr. Ronnie Cockayne
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Conklin
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Cosgrove, III
Dr. and Mrs. Claude Danois
Mr. and Mrs. Pierre De Fabrique
Mr. Jason Aviles and Mrs. Marybel Defillo
Mrs. Ronda DeWitt
Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Domeracki
Mr and Mrs. Jack Eldridge
Mr. and Mrs. Tim Freeze
Mr. and Mrs. Jon Frere
Mr. and Mrs. Leon Gantt
Mr. and Mrs. Ruediger Gebauer
Mr. and Mrs. William R. Glass
Dr. Charles Goodis and Dr. Shu-Ching Chang
Dr. and Mrs. Lushantha Gunasekera
Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Gunkel
Mr. and Mrs. James Hamilton, II
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hamm
Ms. Laura Harper
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Hermanson
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Holm
Mr. Richard Huff and Dr. Amy Huff
Mr. and Mrs. John JeBailey
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Johnson
Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Karen
Dr. and Mrs. Kasey C. Kesselring
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Kiernan, Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Killian, III
Mr. and Mrs. Rod Kutemeier
Dr. Jason Boardman and Dr. Mary Beth Lewis-
Boardman
Mr. Bradley J. Long
Mr. Orlando Maldonado
Mr. Peter Wilborn and Mrs. Rachael Maney
Dr. Timothy Henne and Dr. Michele McGowan
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Megler
Mr. and Mrs. Harold F. Mills
Mr. and Mrs. Ron Mills
Mr. John Moore
Mr. and Mrs. William A. Muntan, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Muramatsu
Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Nelson
Mr. Daniel Newlin
Mr. and Mrs. Scott T. Ohmstede
Mr. Raul Otero and Dr. Angeles Otero
Dr. and Mrs. Julio Paez
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Palanti
Mr. and Mrs. Jay Palmer
Dr. Fabio Echavarria M.D. and Mrs. Gladis Parra
Mr. and Mrs. Marc Paterson
Mr. and Mrs. John Paulsen
Mr. and Mrs. Michael W. Potempa, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. James M. Provenzano
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Quick
Mr. Samuel Rabinowitz
Dr. Brian Ramski
Dr. and Mrs. David Rath
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew G. Richardson
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Riscica
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Rodriguez
Dr. Jose Rosado
Mr. and Mrs. Dmitry Ryabov
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Ryan
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sancio, Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Gary Schindele
Mr. John Schmid
Mr. and Mrs. George Schmid
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Schorr
Ms. Kristen L. Schultejans
Mr. and Mrs. Casey D. Semmler
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Severns
Mr. and Mrs. Phil Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Yao Sun
Ms. Jill Swidler
Mr. John Tentomas and Mrs. Niki Yannakis
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Terry
Dr. Charles N. Helms and Dr. Christine K. Tran
Mr. and Mrs. Scott P. Turnquist
Mr. and Mrs. John Steyl
Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Vaughn
Mr. Scott Hamlin and Mrs. Elizabeth Whitby
Mr. and Mrs.Taylor M. Yarkosky
4 Corners Insurance
A Plus Pediatrics
Accent Services, Inc.
Advanced Sports Media
Advantage Courts
Animal Clinic of Leesburg
Apple Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc.
Arellano Realty & Investments, LLC
Avalon Park Village
Barnhill Golf Institute
Bike Law
Boulevard Restaurants, LLC
Brown & Brown of Florida, Inc.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
Chick-Fil-A of Clermont
Clean First Time
Clermont Radiology
Concierge Title Services, LLC
Core and Main, LP
Creative Concrete of Central Florida
Don Mealey Chevrolet
Ernie Morris Enterprises, Inc.
FH Plus, Inc.
Forterra Pipe & Precast
Fortiline Waterworks
Germana Engineering and Associates
Golden China
Hand & Stone Massage & Facial Spa
INTERSTATE NDT, Inc.
Keke’s Breakfast Café
Lake County Manager
LINKS Co., LTD
McLin & Burnsed, P.A.
Merideth Nagel, P.A.
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
Miller Brothers Giant Tire Service, Inc.
Mind Immersions
MMI Dining Systems, LLC
Montverde Academy Parents Association
Nature’s Touch Frozen Foods, LLC
Opticca Consulting
Orlando Health South Lake Hospital
Paladin Medical Products
Paradigm Group
Paterson Services, Inc.
Powell Studio Architecture
Prime Plumbing, Inc.
Pure Athletics
Q2Cue, Inc.
Quick Response Fire Protection, LLC
Risse Brothers School Uniforms
Ritter’s Frozen Custard
RX Capital Partners, LLC
S&J Enterprises
Schmid Construction and Development
Schmid Foundation, Inc.
Seacoast Bank
South Lake Pain Institute
Steel Worx Solutions, LLC
Sterling Medical Group
The Jerry Barker Group, LLC
The Middlesex Corporation
The Nidy Sports Construction Company, Inc.
United Printing
United Southern Bank
Walt Disney Company
Welcome Back Shirt Shack
Wired Technologies Group
WithumSmith+Brown, PC
28 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

All Alumni Giving
Mr. Olufemi A. Akinpetide ’08
Ms. Geraldine Allien ’07
Mr. Daniel L. Anthony ’24
Mr. Steven M. Austad, Jr. ’15
Ms. Karen J. Austin ’84
Mr. Maxwell D. Babinski ’17
Mr. Pierre W. Bakinde ’09
Mr. Boniface B. Bastian ’88
Ms. Paris-More't C. Bastian ’17
Ms. Drena Bathemess Meadows ’92
Ms. Breana C. Battles ’16
Mr. James R. Begley ’86
Mr. Gabriel Belardo ’08
Mrs. Florence H. Belfus-Bennett ’83
Mr. and Mrs. Todd Bentley, II ’08
Mr. Glenn E. Bernhard ’66
Mr. Devon E. Bethel ’07
Ms. Anne G. Beuzeville ’04
Mr. David R. Biery ’85
Mr. Nicholas C. Blackwell, III ’10
Reverend Thomas Blakelock ’62
Mr. Maxime Blandin ’12
Dr. Logan Blankenship ’05
Ms. Melody L. Borchers-Green ’84
Mr. George Borck ’73
Mr. Brendan Boyle ’14
Mr. Dwight M. Bradshaw, Jr. ’53
Ms. Jewel N. P. Bridgeman ’94
Mrs. Carrie Broussard ’99
Mr. Rafael A. Cabrera ’79
Ms. Helen A. Cadwallader ’62
Ms. Hillary Calamaras ’11
Ms. Margaret P. Caldwell ’13
Mr. Craig Calhoun ’96
Mrs. Nicki L. Callies ’82
Ms. Marla F. Campbell ’91
Mr. Xuyilang Cao ’17
Mr. Anderson Cardoso ’12
Mr. Carlos H. Carlo ’82
Ms. Grace Carpenter ’16
Mr. Richard R. Cawley ’52
Mr. Kristel E. Cedeno ’17
Mr. Saul Chinchilla ’14
Mr. Antonio L. Corchado-Gonzalez ’09
Mr. Arden B. Cozier ’61
Mr. George A. Crady ’49
Mr. Robert R. R. Crago, Jr. ’11
Ms. Phyllis A. Cross ’49
Mr. Noel A. Cuevas Bermudez ’09
Mr. Jonathon S. Dabdoub ’07
Mr. Steven J. Davis ’78
Ms. Lindsey D. Davis ’02
Mr. Bryce J. Davis ’04
Mr. Tyler S. Davis ’04
Mr. Christiaan G. de Haseth ’80
Mr. Donald De Veer ’83
Ms. Rita A. Deitrich ’82
Mr. Nick Diatta ’09
Mr. Charles V. Donahey, III ’93
Mr. Jaime R. Dorta Ramirez ’10
Mr. Kency A. Duarte ’07
Mr. Christopher N. Earl ’71
Ms. Patricia Edgar ’49
Mrs. Judith H. Edwards ’49
Ms. Caitlin N. Emling ’13
Ms. Caterina F. Erice ’79
Mr. Tianhang Fang ’14
Mr. Keith L. Farrington ’07
Mr. Robert M. Fischer ’56
Mr. Jordan D. Foley ’07
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew C. Fry ’10
Ms. Alisa Gallichio ’17
Mrs. Brenda Garner ’70
Mr. Mark L. Gaus ’81
Mr. Benjamin Gebauer ’12
Mr. Emilio Giler ’13
Ms. Tiffany I. Gonzalez ’08
Mr. David Graydon ’12
Capt. and Mrs. Charles P. Grier ’48
Mr. Hugo A. Guilarte ’54
Mr. Jefferson M. Hajek ’75
Dr. Janice H. Haldeman ’54
Mr. John F. Halley ’94
Mr. Boris T. Happi ’10
Mr. Russell C. Hart and Mrs. Janet Hart ’69
Mrs. Monica Heinberg ’91
Mr. Encarnacion J. Herebia ’86
Ms. Lourdes M. Hernandez Gomez ’79
Ms. Shirley R. Hiley ’54
Ms. Pamela Hill ’71
Ms. Summer N. Himmelberger ’16
Ms. Ameka A. Hooper ’08
Ms. Martha Hughes ’46
Mrs. Susan J. Irelan ’64
Ms. Kathy G. Jagielski ’77
Mrs. Jena R. Janse ’07
Mr. Carl L. Jesurun ’83
Mr. Donald L. Johnson ’50
Ms. Katlyn A. Jones ’13
Mrs. Susan Kach ’66
Mr. Luke A. Kaifler-Wright ’05
Ms. Stephanie Kalinowski’'80
Mr. Joseph Katuka ’07
Ms. Sophie Kazmierczak ’07
Ms. Kelli E. Keeler ’11
Mrs. Shirley J. Kerp ’51
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin King ’87
Ms. Mogi Kinsey-O'Neil ’41
Ms. Heather Klein ’03
Dr. Henning Kreke ’82
Ms. Karina N. Labrador ’13
Ms. Samantha C. Lafferty ’13
Ms. Arielle LaForest ’08
Mr. Santiago N. Laight ’07
Reverend Samuel B. Lathem, Jr. ’50
Mr. Chi Ping Lau ’04
Mr. George B. Lawson ’48
Mr. Robert A. Leigh ’73
Ms. Gail Lewis ’50
Ms. Xueting Li ’17
Ms. Han Na Lim Murphy ’09
Mr. Francisco M. Lindor ’11
Mr. Robert B. Lombard ’72
Mr. Juan D. Lopez ’08
Ms. Alexandra N. Love ’07
Ms. Qijie Ma ’14
Ms. Carolyn Mantzouris ’51
Ms. Deborah J. Markus ’85
Mr. Estevan Marquez ’40
Mr. Joaquin E. Martinez-Vila ’09
Ms. Renata G. Martins ’16
Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Mason ’84
Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Mason ’86
Mr. Jonathan Matos ’08
Ms. Carol McCorkle ’70
Mr. Daniel S. McQuaig ’81
Mr. Jesse Meadow ’04
Mr. Diego Mederos ’51
Ms. Rachael E. Metallo ’13
Mr. Paul C. Minor ’83
Mr. Forrest J. Mitchell ’70
Mr. Chris Mitchell ’03
Mr. Erik E. L. Mogelvang ’92
Ms. Nichole J. Montalvo ’08
Mr. Juan Jose Morales ’12
Ms. Marilyn A. Moseley ’51
Mr. Barth-Luther N. Mouafo ’13
Mrs. Freya A. Mroczkowski ’67
Mr. Charles Ndoloum ’07
Mr. Darian I. Negron ’18
Mr. Daniel Nevares ’10
Mrs. Lynn Northrup ’69
Mrs. Joan W. Norton ’49
Ms. Anusha M. Nurani ’17
Mr. John W. Nutbrown ’51
Mr. Alvin D. Obersi ’81
Mr. Geoffrey Olinda ’11
Mr. Mark Oliver ’72
Mr. Govin N. Orie ’07
Mr. Kevin J. Otero ’07
Mr. Eduardo Padilla ’07
Mr. Oscar Padilla ’14
Mr. Juan Padilla ’17
Mr. Ruslan M. Pateev ’09
Mr. Jose M. Perez Catasus ’59
Ms. Barbara D. Phillips ’69
Mrs. Victoria L. Pisciottano ’10
Ms. Willa L. Popejoy ’46
Mr. Joao Victor D. M. Ramalho ’12
Mr. Kieron Rankine ’08
Ms. Shelby J. Ratliff ’13
Mr. Suravit Ratnich ’15
Ms. Hannah E. Rawson ’08
Mr. Angel A. Recci-Gonzalez ’07
Mr. and Dr. Scott Pyke ’80
Mr. Elvin A. Reyes ’07
Mr. Alberto E. Rivalta Ricolfi ’85
Mr. Edwin J. Roberts ’93
Mrs. Alexandra N. Robertson ’07
Ms. Lauren C. Robertson ’12
Mr. Brion T. Robin ’73
Mr. Osvaldo Rocafort ’80
Judge James D. Roehrig ’64
Mr. Francisco A. Rosado ’07
Mr. and Mrs. Jose Rosario ’81
Ms. Donna K. Rosenblum ’73
Ms. Gabriela Salinas ’16
Ms. Madalyn Salinas ’18
Ms. Kayla SanFratello ’12
Mr. Werner E. Schoeberlein ’65
Mrs. Gritsana Scott ’85
Ms. Alice Scrima ’82
Mr. Charles C. Selfridge ’79
Mr. and Ms. Arthur E. Sessions ’51
Mrs. Christina Siegler ’05
Ms. Celia G. Soto ’88
Mr. Guilherme M. O. Sousa ’09
Mrs. Lori L. Specht ’84
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 29

All Alumni Giving continued
Mrs. Kathryn Specht ’02
Mr. Van E. Staton ’48
Ms. Lorinet Swailes ’75
Mr. Gene Tate ’48
Ms. Rhonda M. Vanscolina-Stone ’85
Mr. Ray Vargas ’48
Mr. David A. Velasquez ’11
Dr. and Mrs. Jose E. Portela-Berrios ’08
Ms. Patricia D. Walbridge ’65
Athletic Booster Club Members
Ms. Mikaela Aiken
Mr. and Mrs. Robbie Aristodemo
Mr. and Mrs. Hector Ariza
Mr. and Mrs. Neil Barnhill
Mr. and Mrs. Samuel J. Bergman
Mr. and Mrs. David Bernatavitz
Mr. and Mrs. Judd Bobilin
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Boyle
Mr. and Mrs. Lance Brauman
Mr. and Mrs. Shad Bybee
Mrs. Heather Cabaniss
Mr. and Mrs. David Carr
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Carter
Mr. and Mrs. Hal Chestnut
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Cintron
Dr. Mark A. Coan and Dr. Roxanne A. Achong-
Coan
Mr. and Mrs. David Colby
Ms. Bayley Cook
Mr. Robert R. Crago, Jr.
Mr. Timothy Crowley
Dr. and Mrs. Claude Danois
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew DeClercq
Mr. Warren Delmolino
Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Domeracki
Mr. Andrew Douek-Pirotte
Mrs. Lauren Dougherty
Mr. and Mrs. Landy Douglass
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Douglass
Mr. Corey Edwards
Mr. and Mrs. Jack S. Eldridge
Mrs. Sarah M. Estenger
Mrs. Laura A. Fagan
Mr. and Mrs. James Flanigan
Mr. Ralo Flores and Mrs. Christine Horvay
Mr. and Mrs. Tim Freeze
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence E. Frick
Mr. Aaron Gates and Mrs. Nicole Deluca
Mrs. Gina Gattuso-Espinel
Mr. Benjamin Gebauer
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Gerken
Mr. and Mrs. William R. Glass
Mrs. Kelly Golden-Neer
Dr. and Mrs. Uril C. Greene
Ms. Caitlin Griffis
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hamm
Ms. Laura Harper
Mr. and Mrs. Marc Harrelson
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Harvey
Mr. and Mrs. Kerry C. Henigan
Mr. and Mrs. Eric Hiers
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hornberger
Mr. Richard Huff and Dr. Amy Huff
Mr. Leslie P. Walker ’49
Ms. Mary L. Walker ’77
Ms. Bianka Walker ’08
Mr. Winston B. Wallace ’89
Mr. Ting-Chieh Wang ’07
Mr. Douglas C. Waterfield ’59
Ms. Amy K. Whitman ’01
Mr. Simeon Wickli ’14
Mrs. Lily Williams ’48
Mr. Eugene Resto and Mrs. Katherine Irizarry
Mr. Victor Rivera and Mrs. Yanitza Irizarry-Rivera
Mr. and Mr. John Jebailey
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Johnson
Mr. and Mrs. David Jones
Dr. and Mrs. Kasey C. Kesselring
Mr. Naji Khouri
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Killian
Dr. Jason Boardman and Dr. Mary Beth Lewis-
Boardman
Mr. Brad Long
Mr. Peter Wilborn and Mrs. Rachael Maney
Mr. Sean Martin
Mr. and Mrs. Carlos A. Martins
Mr. and Mrs. Keith F. McDonnell
Dr. Timothy Henne and Dr. Michele McGowan
Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Meadow
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Megler
Mr. and Mrs. Rae Miller
Mr. and Mrs. Ron Mills
Mrs. Gina Mobley
Mr. Richard D’Anjou and Dr. Jeannine Mongeon
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Muramatsu
Mr. Thomas Murray
Mr. Christian Neira Bravo
Mr. and Mrs. Adam Nesmith
Mr. Daniel Newlin
Ms. Julie Olczak
Mr. and Mrs. Jaime Oncins
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Osterman
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Osterman
Mr. Raul Otero and Dr. Angeles Otero
Mr. and Mrs. Victor Pacheco
Dr. and Mrs. Julio C. Paez
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Palanti
Mr. and Mrs. Jay Palmer
Mr. and Mrs. Zachary Parker
Mrs. Krystal Parker
Mr. and Mrs. John Paulsen
Mr. Alex Piggott
Dr. and Mrs. Elvis Price
Mr. and Mrs. James M. Provenzano
Mr. Jim T. Purvis and Mrs. Kate Whalen
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Quick
Dr. and Mrs. David Rath
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew G. Richardson
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Riscica
Mr. and Mrs. Yordin Robinson
Mr. and Mrs. Eric W. Rose
Mr. William Machinski and Dr. Jennifer Rosinski
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Ryan
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Rydell
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Salkaus
Mr. John T. Williams, III ’18
Mr. John L. Williamson ’77
Ms. Susan M. Wise-Richardson ’70
Mr. Jonathan Yameogo ’07
Ms. Judith Yoakum ’59
Ms. Betty A. Young-Upper ’85
Ms. Stephanie Zaiser ’87
Mr. Dmitry N. Zimin ’09
Ms. Nevare Zimmerman ’07
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sancio, Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Justin Sayer
Mrs. Kim Schield
Mr. and Mrs. Eric Schlussel
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Schorr
The Schmid Family
Ms. Meristell Shackelford
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Shirley
Mr. Brian Skelly
Mr. and Mrs. Ted Smith
Mr. Taran Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Phil Smith
Mr. Dean Bell and Mrs. Michele StoryBell
Mr. Brooks Sweet
Ms. Jill Swidler
Ms. Sue Tortora
Mrs. Lori Treweek
Mr. Brian Treweek
Mr. and Mrs. Scott P. Turnquist
Mr. and Mrs. Adrie Van Der Ven
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Varnado
Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Vaughn
Dr. Navin K. Veerapa
Mr. and Mrs. Chris Vitito
Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Tolbert
Mr. and Mrs. Lance Walsworth
Mr. Samont Washington
Mrs. Jaimie Washo
Mr. and Mrs. John Weaver
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Wexler
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Whalen
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Williamson
Mr. Benjamin Wisniewski
Mr. and Mrs. Taylor M. Yarkosky
Mr. and Mrs. Donghui Zhuang
Ms. Nevare Zimmerman
4 Corners Insurance
Advantage Courts
Animal Clinic of Leesburg
Barnhill Golf Institute
Bike Law
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
FH Plus, Inc.
Keller Williams Classic III Realty - Tina DeClercq
McLin & Burnsed, P.A.
Olympus Executive Realty, Inc.
Pure Athletics
RX Capital Partners, LLC
Schmid Foundation, Inc.
South Lake Pain Institute
Stone & Gerken, P.A.
The Washo Law Firm, P.A.
30 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Arts Alliance Members
Mr. and Mrs. Dane Aboushaba
Mrs. Evita Ball
Mrs. Katia Barber
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Barker
Ms. Eryn Barroso
Mr. Dean Bell and Mrs. Michele StoryBell
Mr. and Mrs. David Bernatavitz
Mr. and Mrs. William Betts
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Bird
Mr. and Mrs. Danny Bjortvedt
Mr. and Mrs. Judd Bobilin
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Boggs
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Boles
Mr. Don Montague and Mrs. Kimberly Braden-
Montague
Dr. Anne Browdy
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Burke
Ms. Jeannette Cazenave
Mr. Hanrich Claassen
Mr. and Mrs. Kyle Clapper
Mr. Aubrey Connelly-Candelario and Mr. Charles
Connelly-Candelario
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Cook
Ms. Cynthia Cunningham
Mr. Warren Delmolino
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Dinmore
Ms. Roberta Emerson
Mr. and Mrs. James Flanigan
Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Fracker
Mr. F. John Fricker and Dr. Tracey Scully-Fricker
Dr. and Mrs. Lushantha Gunasekera
Donors $999 and below
Mr. and Mrs. Sharif Aboushaba
Mr. and Mrs. Dane Aboushaba
Mr. Victor Valencia and Mrs. Nayda Abreu
Dr. Roberto Negron and Dr. Karina Acevedo
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Adams
Ms. Mikaela Aiken
Mrs. Dailyn Alejandrino Huertas
Mr. and Mrs. Alex Alexakis
Mr. Rodney Allen
Dr. Arghyris Arghyrou
Mr. and Mrs. Robbie Aristodemo
Mr. Justin Arroyo
Dr. Kathryn Austin
Mr. and Mrs. Tim J. Bach
Mr. and Mrs. Aldon Baker
Mrs. Evita Ball
Mrs. Katia Barber
Mr. and Mrs. David Barrett
Ms. Eryn Barroso
Ms. Adrienne Barton
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Becker
Mrs. Phillipa Bell
Mr. and Mrs. Angelo G. Benjamin
Mrs. Diana L. Betts
Mrs. Jayne Beucher
Mrs. Tamara Bills-McCoy
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Bird
Mr. and Mrs. Danny Bjortvedt
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Boggs
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Boles
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. Bova
Mr. and Mrs. Jordan Hymel
Mr. and Mrs. Bailey Ince
Mr. and Mr. John JeBailey
Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Karen
Mr. and Mrs. Marten Kaufman
Dr. and Mrs. Kasey C. Kesselring
Ms. Ashley Kesselring
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Kiernan, Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Martin Koshar
Mr. and Mrs. Rod Kutemeier
Mr. Brad Long
Dr. Caryn S. Long
Mr. and Mrs. Sean Martin
Mr. Humberto Matos
Ms. Jodi McDaniel
Mrs. Catherine McKinney
Ms. Kalena Meyers
Mrs. Mary Mincy
Mrs. Gina Mobley
Mr. and Mrs. Michael T. Morehead
Mr. and Mrs. William A. Muntan, Jr.
Ms. Shamika Murray
Mr. and Mrs. Jon Napoles
Ms. Carly Ogden
Mrs. Marli G. Ohlrich
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Osterman
Mr. Matthew Parets and Mrs. Sara Stelle-Parets
Mrs. Krystal Parker
Ms. Loula Parks
Mr. and Mrs. John Paulsen
Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Phiri
Mrs. Becky Bozarth
Mr. Don Montague and Mrs. Kimberly Braden
Mrs. Tammy Brasher
Mr. and Mrs. William Broecker
Dr. Anne Browdy
Mr. Guy Brown
Mr. Robert Brown
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Burke
Mr. and Mrs. Shad Bybee
Mr. and Mrs. Eduardo Caballero
Mrs. Heather Cabaniss
Mrs. Hillary Calamaras
Mr. Thomas Caleca
Mr. Frederico Augusto Camara Lobato
Ms. Lea Campopiano
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Cappella
Dr. Patricia L. Carlton
Mr. and Mrs. David Carr
Mrs. Nancy Carter
Mr. Antonio Parra and Mrs. Monica Castro
Ms. Brenda Catron
Ms. Jeannette Cazenave
Mr. Steven Cerenzio
Ms. Nicole Jo Charette
Mr. Dennis Mitchell and Mrs. Damu Cherry-
Mitchell
Mrs. Kathy A. Chestnut
Mr. Saul Chinchilla and Mrs. Courtney Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Cintron
Mr. Hanrich Claassen
Mr. and Mrs. Kyle Clapper
Mr. and Mrs. Carlos F. Pinto
Mr. Kenneth Plackowski
Mr. and Mrs. James M. Provenzano
Mr. Jim T. Purvis and Mrs. Kate Whalen
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Quick
Dr. Rachel Ramirez
Dr. and Mrs. David Rath
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Rodriguez
Mr. and Mrs. David Rodriguez
Dr. Jose Rosado
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Rydell
Mr. and Mrs. Justin Sayer
Ms. Kristen L. Schultejans
Mr. Jim Seaney
Ms. Meristell Shackelford
Mr. Taran Smith
Mr. Micheal Snider
Mr. and Mrs. Kent Snyder
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Specht
Ms. Jill Swidler
Ms. Sandra Tamasi
Ms. Dana Thurmond
Ms. Sue Tortora
Mr. and Mrs. Lance Walsworth
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Woodward
Mr. Mark Wright-Ahern and Mr. Adrian Wright-
Ahern
INTERSTATE NDT, INC.
Ironrock Commercial Construction
Walt Disney Company
Dr. Mark A. Coan and Dr. Roxanne A. Achong-
Coan
Mr. and Mrs. David Colby
Mrs. Carolyn Coleman
Ms. Rebekah Collins
Mr. Aubrey Connelly-Candelario and Mr. Charles
Connelly-Candelario
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Cook
Ms. Bayley Cook
Mr. Kerry Cookson
Mr. and Mrs. Gary Cooper
Mr. Len C. Losen and Mrs. Mindy K. Corporon
Mr. Tony Cortese
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Coschignano
Dr. and Mrs. Wendell J. Courtney
Mrs. Adriana Covarrubias
Mr. Raul Padilla-Zaragoza and Mrs. Ana Bertha
Covarrubias
Ms. Veronica Covarrubias
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Crago
Mr. Robert R. Crago, Jr.
Dr. and Mrs. Mark S. Crider
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Crosbie
Mr. Timothy Crowley
Mrs. Doreen Cummings
Ms. Cynthia Cunningham
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Dailey
Mrs. Jane Davis
Mr. Tyler S. Davis
Mr. Walker Dawkins
Ms. Lauren Dean
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 31

Donors $999 and below continued
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew DeClercq
Mr. Warren Delmolino
Mrs. Shelia Delong
Mr. Aaron Gates and Mrs. Nicole Deluca
Mrs. Rosemary DeMott
Mr. and Mrs. Ramsaran Dharamdass
Mr. Nick Diatta
Ms. Candace Dietrich
Mr. and Mrs. Brian Diller
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Dinmore
Mrs. Stephanie Dinonno
Mr. Salviano Serna and Mrs. Sandra L. D’Onofrio
Mr. Andrew Douek-Pirotte
Mrs. Lauren Dougherty
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Douglass
Mr. and Mrs. Landy Douglass
Mr. Corey Edwards
Mr. Rick Ellis
Ms. Roberta Emerson
Mr. Ebo R. Entsuah
Ms. Michele Espinosa Sanchez
Ms. Sarah M. Estenger
Mr. Daniel Estrada
Mr. and Mrs. Johnathan Fagan
Mrs. Sue Fagan
Mr. Christian Figueroa-Lindor
Mr. James Flanigan and Dr. Melissa Flanigan
Mr. Ralo Flores and Ms. Christine Horvay
Mr. George Flores
Mrs. Nanette Fountain
Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Fracker
Mr. Jermelle Fraser
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence E. Frick
Mr. F. John Fricker and Dr. Tracey Scully-Fricker
Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Gambini
Mr. Edward Ganley
Mr. Daniel Garcia
Mrs. Luz Garcia-Henn
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Garland
Mr. Aaron Gates and Mrs. Nicole Deluca
Mrs. Gina Gattuso-Espinel
Mr. Benjamin Gebauer
Ms. Jennifer George
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Gerken
Mr. Emilio Giler
Mrs. Kelly Golden-Neer
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Golston
Mr. Victor Carreno and Mrs. Elisa G. Gomez
Mr. and Mrs. Guilherme Goncalves Ferreira
Mr. Omar Gonzalez
Mrs. Deborah Grayford
Dr. and Mrs. Uril C. Greene
Mr. Eugene Griffin
Ms. Caitlin Griffis
Mrs. Nancirae Griffith
Mr. Edward Gunderson
Mr. and Mrs. Dan Gunkel
Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Gunkel
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hall
Mrs. Karen Hall
Mr. Brian Fallon and Mrs. Kywa Hammond, Esq.
Mr. Brian Hand
Mr. Steven Hand
Mrs. Robin Hansley
Mr. and Mrs. Marc Harrelson
Mr. Josh Hart
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Harvey
Dr. Jessica Haven
Mrs. Jill Haveson
Mr. and Mrs. Kerry C. Henigan
Mrs. Cassidy Henshaw
Mr. and Mrs. Gregg Hermanson
Ms. Beverly Hernandez
Mrs. Elsie Herzig
Mr. Richard Hickman
Mr. and Mrs. Eric Hiers
Ms. Debbie Higginbottom
Mrs. Lynn Hoehn
Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Hollis
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hornberger
Mrs. Diane Huckaba
Mr. and Mrs. Jordan Hymel
Mr. and Mrs. Bailey Ince
Mr. Eugene Resto and Mrs. Katherine Irizarry
Mr. Victor Rivera and Mrs. Yanitza Irizarry-Rivera
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Jamieson
Mr. Guilherme Jasmin
Ms. Lagrane Jefferson
Mr. and Mrs. George Jodeksnis
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Johnson
Mrs. Constance Jones
Mr. and Mrs. David Jones
Mr. and Mrs. Kurt A. Josephs
Mr. and Mrs. Glen Joyner
Mr. and Mrs. Gene Kanikovsky
Mr. and Mrs. Marten Kaufman
Mr. Austin Keesee
Mr. and Mrs. Bob Kelly
Mrs. Mary Kelsey
Ms. Ashley Kesselring
Ms. Kailin Kesselring
Mr. Naji Khouri
Ms. Marla Kirban
Mr. and Mrs. Martin Koshar
Mrs. Pat Kroll-Whiffen
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Lafferty, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Lafferty, III
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Lamb
Mr. Tim Lambert
Ms. Tiffani Law
Mrs. Marjorie Lee
Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Leeper
Mrs. Michelle Lewis
Mr. Robert Lightburn
Mr. Paul Lilly
Ms. Legna Lindor Lebron
Dr. Caryn S. Long
Mr. Jose Lopez Bargues
Mr. Richard Maddock
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Maglione
Mr. and Mrs. James Magnuson
Mr. Richard Marsh
Mr. and Mrs. Sean Martin
Mr. Douglas Martin
Mrs. Rebecca Martinez
Mr. Steven Martinez
Ms. Jasmine Martinez
Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Martins
Mr. Humberto Matos
Ms. Sasha-Kay Matthias
Mrs. Maureen Mcardle
Ms. Jodi McDaniel
Mr. and Mrs. Keith F. McDonnell
Mr. Duane McElheran
Dr. Timothy Henne and Dr. Michele McGowan
Mrs. Crystal McKeeman
Mrs. Catherine McKinney
Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Meadow
Mr. and Mrs. Sean Meder
Mr. Roman Mendieta
Mr. Dion Menendez
Ms. Rebekah Mercer
Ms. Kalena Meyers
Mr. and Mrs. Rae Miller
Mr. and Mrs. Donovan Miller
Mr. Joe Miller
Mr. Bernard Miller
Mrs. Mary Mincy
Mr. Daniel Minkler
Mrs. Gina Mobley
Mr. Marco Molina
Mr. and Mrs. Rocco Mondo
Mr. Richard D’Anjou and Dr. Jeannine Mongeon
Mr. Brent Monroe
Ms. Savannah Montes
Mr. and Mrs. William D. Moore
Mr. and Mrs. Michael T. Morehead
Ms. Chandra Morgan
Mr. and Mrs. Stan Motsavage
Ms. Shelley Mueller
Mrs. Camellia Muniz
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Murphy
Mr. Thomas Murray
Ms. Shamika Murray
Ms. Franny Musicaro
Mr. David Myers
Mrs. Merideth Nagel
Mr. and Mrs. Jon Napoles
Mr. Thomas Narducci
Ms. Jeanette Nederveen
Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Neel
Mr. Christian Neira Bravo
Mr. and Mrs. Adam Nesmith
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony McDowell
Ms. Carly Ogden
Mrs. Marli G. Ohlrich
Dr. Angela Okolie
Ms. Julie Olczak
Mrs. Mary Oliver
Mr. and Mrs. Jaime Oncins
Mr. Oguchialu Onyewu
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Osterman
Mr. Walter Osterman
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Oxford
Mr. Juan Padilla
Mr. Oscar Padilla
Mr. and Mrs. Raul Padilla-Zaragoza
Dr. and Mrs. Julio Paez
Mr. and Mrs. Brad Pagan
Mr. Matthew Parets and Mrs. Sara Stelle-Parets
Mr. and Mrs. Zachary Parker
Mrs. Krystal Parker
Ms. Loula Parks
Mr. Nelson Parra
Mrs. Kathleen Patterson
Mr. and Mrs. David Pawlikowski
Mr. Carlos Pedraza-Rodriguez
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Perham
32 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Donors $999 and below continued
Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Phiri
Mr. Alex Piggott
Ms. Tiffany Piland
Mr. and Mrs. Carlos F. Pinto
Mrs. Victoria L. Pisciottano
Mr. Kenneth Plackowski
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Podguski
Ms. Lori Pollock
Mr. Doug Popwell
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Potempa, Sr.
Dr. and Mrs. Elvis Price
Mr. Jim T. Purvis and Mrs. Kate Whalen
Mr. and Mrs. Jun Qiu
Dr. Rachel Ramirez
Mr. Markis Randall
Mr. and Mrs. Sean Reish
Mr. and Mrs. Esdras Rivera
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Robbins
Mrs. Julie Roberts
Ms. Grace Roberts
Ms. Diane L. Robertson
Mr. and Mrs. Yordin Robinson
Mr. and Mrs. David Rodriguez
Mr. Jake Rodriguez
Mr. Alfonso Rodriguez-Diaz
Mrs. Holly Rosenau
Mr. and Mrs. Eric W. Rose
Mr. William Machinski and Dr. Jennifer Rosinski
Ms. Rhonda Ross
Mr. Steven Ruetz
Mr. and Mrs. Luis Ruiz
Mr. James Russo and Dr. Julie Russo
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Rydell
Mr. Stephen Saavedra
Ms. Claudia L. Salazar
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Salkaus
Mr. and Mrs. Raymond SanFratello
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sapp
Mr. and Mrs. Justin Sayer
Mrs. Kim Schield
Mr. and Mrs. Gary M. Schindele
Mr. and Mrs. Eric Schlussel
Mrs. Judith Schwartz
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Seaney
Mr. and Mrs. Billy C. Shackelford
Ms. Meristell Shackelford
Mr. Robert Shannon
Mr. Dawei Shen
Mrs. Heidi Shirley
Mrs. Raywattie Shiwbodh
Mr. and Mrs. Chris Simmons
Mr. and Mrs. Darren Sinopoli
Mr. Brian Skelly
Mr. Louis Ligocki and Mrs. Robin Smith
Mr. Byron Smith
Mrs. Linda Smith
Mr. Taran Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Ted Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Phil Smith
Mr. Michal Snider
Mr. and Mrs. Kent Snyder
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher S. Spaulding
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Specht
Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Stalma
Mr. and Mrs. George Stelle, Jr.
Mr. Michael Stewart
Mr. John Stone
Ms. Alissa Svedberg
Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Swanson
Mr. Brooks Sweet
Ms. Sandra Tamasi
Mr. and Mrs. James Tanis
Mrs. Andrea Tannehill
Mr. and Mrs. Adam Taylor
Mr. and Mrs. David Taylor
Mr. Paul Thomas
Ms. Dana Thurmond
Ms. Stephanie Tomita
Mrs. Melyssa Tomlinson
Mr. Jason Torres
Ms. Sue Tortora
Dr. Charles Helms and Dr. Christine Tran
Mr. Brian Treweek
Mrs. Lori Treweek
Mr. Donald Turner
Dr. Ovie Utuama and Dr. Ona Utuama
Mr. Victor Valencia and Mrs. Nayda Abreu
Mr. and Mrs. Adrie Van Der Ven
Mrs. Rhonda Vanscolina-Stone
Mr. John Steyl and Mrs. Vidette Vanwyk
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Varnado
Mrs. Ninette Vazquez
Dr. Navin K. Veerapa
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence W. Vickers
Mr. and Mrs. Chris Vitito
Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Tolbert
Mr. and Mrs. Lance Walsworth
Mr. Jonathan Warnken
Mr. Samont Washington
Mrs. Jaimie Washo
Mr. and Mrs. John Weaver
Ms. Nella Weisman
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Werner
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Wexler
Mr. and Mrs. Joesph Whalen
Mr. Jonathan White
Ms. Ashley Whiteman
Mr. Stephen Whitfield
Mr. and Mrs. Ted E. Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Williams
Mrs. Sharon Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Williamson
Mr. Armand Winters
Mr. Benjamin Wisniewski
Ms. Monica Wofford
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Woodward
Mr. Adrian Wright-Ahern and Mr. Mark Wright-
Ahern
Mr. and Mrs. Leon Rodney Yeomans
Mrs. Catherine Yin
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Young
Mr. and Ms. Donghui Zhuang
Ms. Nevare Zimmerman
411 Restoration & Remodeling Services
A Lo Cubano Kitchen
Allstate-LAMB Insurance & Financial
Aloha Family Dental
AmazonSmile Foundation
Ambassador Cleaners
Amish Pretzel Shop
Auto Hygiene Professional Car Detailing
Baby Tanio
Bangz Hair Design
Bella Collina
Big Hot Box Food Truck
Blender Boyz Smoothies
Buby Tquino’s
Burger Lab Food Truck
Calabria Ristorante & NY Style Pizza
Cannonfire Photography, Inc.
Caribbean Sunshine Bakery
Celebrity Auto Group
Center for Ankle and Foot Care
Cherrylake, Inc.
Chicken Bites
Chikiz Empanaditas Gourmet
Citrus Grove Dental Care
Clermont Bicycles
Clermont Pediatric Dentistry/Dr. Julie Russo,
DMD
Consortium on Innovative Practices
Cornerstone Music, LLC
David Vargas Agency, Inc.
Display America, Inc.
Draper and Kramer Mortgage
DTS Restorative Services, Inc.
Edward Ganley Painting
El Cactus Azul
Europa Grill LLC
Fillin Good Food Truck
Florida Heart and Vascular Health
Florida High School Athletics Association
Florida Law Center, A Private Law Firm
Garden Theatre
Gray Robinson Law Firm
Green Machine Food Truck
Hampton Inn Suites
Hearthstone Real Estate, Inc.
Heartland Dental, LLC
Hole Lotta Donuts
Hursey Financial Services, Inc.
International Junior Golf Academy
Ironrock Commercial Construction
Jackson, Shah & Company
Jamaican Jerk Hut
Joe’s Liquor
K. Ellen Boutique
Keller Williams Classic III Realty - Tina DeClercq
Kona Ice of South Lake County
Law Offices of Zareefa Khan
Magic on your Plate Food Truck
Montverde Ballet Center
National League of Junior Cotillions, Golden
Triangle Chapt.
NKSFB-Sports
Oishimotto Food Truck
Oldtimecandy.com
Oley’s Hospitality Group
Olympus Executive Realty, Inc.
On Site Commercial Services
Orlando Oral & Facial Surgery
OXXO CARE CLEANERS - CLERMONT
Pawsmere
Pepes Cantina, LLC
Pizza A Cone Xpress
Raytheon Company
Relevé School of Dance
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 33

Donors $999 and below continued
Renal Consult Services Limited
Shutts & Bowen, LLP
South Lake Multisport Events
Speedway Automotive
Stone & Gerken, P.A.
Success Mortgage Partners, Inc.
Summit Greens Residents Association, Inc.
Team Pasch Academic Coaching
The Big Cheese
The Big Hot Box, LLC
The Crepe Company
The Music House, LLC
The Orlando Law Group
The Team Real Estate Group
The Washo Law Firm, P.A.
Tina DeClercq, Realtor - Keller Williams
Toigo, Inc.
Trinity Farms Life & Spiritual Coaching
Two-6 Resources, Inc.
Uncle Grumpy’s BBQ
Vita Coco
Warrior ONE Winter Garden Windermere
Staff and Faculty Giving
Mrs. Evita Ball
Mrs. Katia Barber
Mr. Neil Barnhill
Ms. Eryn Barroso
Ms. Adrienne Barton
Mr. Dean Bell
Mr. David Bernatavitz
Mrs. Marcia Bernatavitz
Mrs. Diana L. Betts
Mrs. Jayne Beucher
Mrs. Tamara Bills-McCoy
Mrs. Jennifer Boles
Mr. Kevin Boyle
Ms. Becky Bozarth
Mrs. Kimberly Braden
Mrs. Kimberly Brauman
Dr. Anne Browdy
Mr. Guy Brown
Mr. Robert Brown
Mr. Robert Burke
Mrs. Emybi Caballero
Mrs. Heather Cabaniss
Mrs. Hillary Calamaras
Mr. Thomas Caleca
Mr. Frederico Augusto Camara Lobato
Ms. Lea Campopiano
Mrs. Kelly Carr
Mrs. Nancy Carter
Mrs. Monica Castro
Ms. Brenda Catron
Mr. Steven Cerenzio
Ms. Nicole Jo Charette
Mr. Saul Chinchilla
Mr. Hanrich Claassen
Mr. Kyle Clapper
Mrs. Jill Clapper
Mrs. Andrea Colby
Mrs. Rebekah Collins
Mr. Aubrey Connelly-Candelario
Mrs. Dana Cook
Ms. Bayley Cook
Mr. Tony Cortese
Mrs. Ryan Coschignano
Mr. Raul Padilla-Zaragoza
Mrs. Adriana Covarrubias
Mrs. Ana Bertha Covarrubias
Ms. Veronica Covarrubias
Mr. Timothy Crowley
Mrs. Doreen Cummings
Ms. Cynthia Cunningham
Mr. Tyler Davis
Mr. Walker Dawkins
Mrs. Lauren Dean
34 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020
Mr. Warren Delmolino
Mrs. Sheia Delong
Mr. Aaron Gates
Mrs. Nicole Deluca
Mr. Nick Diatta
Ms. Candace Dietrich
Mr. Joseph Dinmore
Mrs. Stephanie Dinonno
Mr. Andrew Douek-Pirotte
Ms. Lauren Dougherty
Mr. Corey Edwards
Mr. Rick Ellis
Ms. Roberta Emerson
Mr. Ebo R. Entsuah
Ms. Michele Espinosa Sanchez
Mr. Daniel Estrada
Ms. Laura A. Fagan
Mr. Christian Figueroa-Lindor
Mr. George Flores
Mrs. Emilie Fracker
Mr. Jermelle Fraser
Mrs. Luz Garcia-Henn
Mrs. Rosalie Garland
Mrs. Gina Gattuso-Espinel
Mr. Benjamin Gebauer
Ms. Jennifer George
Mr. Emilio Giler
Mrs. Kelly Golden-Neer
Mr. Guilherme Goncalves Ferreira
Mr. Omar Gonzalez
Mrs. Deborah Grayford
Ms. Caitlin Griffis
Mrs. Karen Hall
Mrs. Victoria Hall
Mr. Brian Hand
Mr. Steven Hand
Mrs. Robin Hansley
Ms. Laura Harper
Mrs. Jill Haveson
Ms. Beverly Hernandez
Mr. Toni Hernandez Garcia
Mr. Richard Hickman
Ms. Debbie Higginbottom
Mrs. Ginny Holm
Mrs. Kara Hymel
Mrs. Megan Ince
Mrs. Katherine Irizarry
Mrs. Yanitza Irizarry-Rivera
Mr. Guilherme Jasmin
Mr. David Jones
Mr. Glen Joyner
Mrs. Jaida Joyner
Mrs. Michele Kanikovsky
Mr. Austin Keesee
Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring
Mrs. Maureen Kesselring
Ms. Ashley Kesselring
Mr. Naji Khouri
Mrs. Pat Kroll-Whiffen
Mrs. Susan Lafferty
Mr. Tim Lambert
Ms. Tiffani Law
Mrs. Kelly Leeper
Mr. Robert Lightburn
Ms. Legna Lindor Lebron
Dr. Caryn Long
Mr. Bradley Long
Mr. Jose Lopez Bargues
Mr. Richard Maddock
Mr. Richard Marsh
Mr. Douglas Martin
Mr. Steven Martinez
Mrs. Jasmine Martinez
Mrs. Rebecca Martinez
Mr. Humberto Matos
Ms. Sasha-Kay Matthias
Mrs. Jodi McDaniel
Mrs. Catherine McKinney
Mr. Jesse Meadow
Mrs. Saliesha Meder
Mr. Roman Mendieta
Mrs. Rebekah Mercer
Ms. Kalena Meyers
Mr. Bernard Miller
Mr. Rae Miller
Mrs. Mary Mincy
Mr. Daniel Minkler
Mrs. Gina Mobley
Dr. Jeannine Mongeon
Mr. Brent Monroe
Ms. Savannah Montes
Mr. Bill Moore
Mrs. Lynne Moore
Ms. Shelley Mueller
Mrs. Camellia Muniz
Mrs. Suzette Murphy
Ms. Shamika Murray
Ms. Franny Musicaro
Mr. David Myers
Mrs. Amy Napoles
Mr. Thomas Narducci
Ms. Jeanette Nederveen
Mr. Joshua Neel
Mr. Christian Neira Bravo
Ms. Carly Ogden
Mrs. Marli Ohlrich

Staff and Faculty Giving continued
Mrs. Mary Oliver
Mr. Jaime Oncins
Mr. Oguchialu Onyewu
Mr. Jeff Osterman
Mr. Juan Padilla
Mr. Oscar Padilla
Mr. Raul Padilla-Zaragoza
Mr. Brad Pagan
Mrs. Diane Pagan
Mr. Matthew Parets
Mrs. Marla Parker
Ms. Loula Parks
Mr. Nelson Parra
Mrs. Kathleen Patterson
Mrs. Erica Pawlikowski
Mr. Carlos Pedraza-Rodriguez
Mr. Gerald Phiri
Mrs. Khrystal Phiri
Mr. Alex Piggott
Ms. Tiffany Piland
Mr. Kenneth Plackowski
Mr. Walter Podguski
Mrs. Cathy Podguski
Ms. Lori Pollock
Mr. Doug Popwell
Mr. Michael Potempa, Jr.
Mrs. Deborah Potempa
Mrs. Margaret Price
Mr. Paul Quick
Ms. Rachel Ramirez
Dr. David Rath
Mrs. Mary-Kay Rath
Mrs. Julie Roberts
Ms. Grace Roberts
Mrs. Diane L. Robertson
Mr. Yordin Robinson
Mr. Jake Rodriguez
Mrs. Mayra Rodriguez
Mr. Alfonso Rodriguez-Diaz
Mrs. Holly Rosenau
Ms. Rhonda Ross
Mr. Steven Ruetz
Mr. Stephen Saavedra
Ms. Claudia Salazar
Mrs. Nicole Salkaus
Mrs. Carol SanFratello
Mr. Michael Sapp
Mrs. Kim Schield
Mrs. Sarah Schlussel
Mr. Jim Seaney
Ms. Meristell Shackelford
Mr. Dawei Shen
Mrs. Heidi Shirley
Mrs. Raywattie Shiwbodh
Mrs. Melody Sinopoli
Mr. Brian Skelly
Mr. Byron Smith
Mr. Taran Smith
Mr. Michal Snider
Mr. Kent Snyder
Mr. Christopher Spaulding
Mrs. Antonia Specht
Mr. Jonathan Stalma
Mrs. Sara Stelle-Parets
Mrs. Michele StoryBell
Ms. Alissa Svedberg
Mr. Brooks Sweet
Ms. Jill Swidler
Ms. Sandra Tamasi
Mrs. Andrea Tannehill
Mr. Adam Taylor
Mrs. Heather Taylor
Ms. Dana Thurmond
Ms. Stephanie Tomita
Mrs. Melyssa Tomlinson
Mr. Jason Torres
Ms. Sue Tortora
Mr. Brian Treweek
Mrs. Lori Treweek
Mr. Donald Turner
Mrs. Jill Turnquist
Mr. Victor Valencia
Mr. Kevin Varnado
Mrs. Allison Varnado
Mrs. Ninette Vazquez
Mrs. Dolores Vickers
Mr. Lance Walsworth
Mrs. Kristine Walsworth
Mr. Jonathan Warnken
Mr. Samont Washington
Mr. John Weaver
Mr. Scott Werner
Mr. Jeffrey Wexler
Mrs. Yumiko Wexler
Mr. Jonathan White
Ms. Ashley Whiteman
Mr. Stephen Whitfield
Mr. Tony Williams
Mrs. Courtney Williams
Mr. Benjamin Wisniewski
Mr. Dennis Woodward
Mr. Adrian Wright-Ahern
Mr. Mark Wright-Ahern
Mrs. Catherine Yin
Mrs. Khristina Young
Grandparents Giving
Mr. and Mrs. Sharif Aboushaba
Mrs. Sharon Ballard
Mr. and Mrs. David Barrett
Mr. and Mrs. Erskin Bell
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Bird
Mrs. Becky Bozarth
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Cappella
Dr. Patricia L. Carlton
Mrs. Carolyn Coleman
Mr. and Mrs. Gary Cooper
Dr. and Mrs. Wendell J. Courtney
Mrs. Jane Davis
Mrs. Shelia Delong
Mr. and Mrs. Ramsaran Dharamdass
Mrs. Sue Fagan
Mrs. Nanette Fountain
Mr. Eugene Griffin
Mrs. Nancirae Griffith
Mr. Edward Gunderson
Mr. and Mrs. Dan Gunkel
Mrs. Elsie Herzig
Mrs. Lynn Hoehn
Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Hollis
Mrs. Diane Huckaba
Mr. and Mrs. George Jodeksnis
Mrs. Constance Jones
Mr. and Mrs. Bob Kelly
Mrs. Mary Kelsey
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Lafferty, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. David Lee
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Maglione
Mr. and Mrs. James Magnuson
Mr. Duane McElheran
Mrs. Crystal McKeeman
Mr. Marco Molina
Mr. and Mrs. Rocco Mondo
Mr. and Mrs. Stan Motsavage
Mr. Walter Osterman
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Oxford
Mr. Nelson Parra
Mrs. Kathleen Patterson
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Perham
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Potempa, Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Luis Ruiz
Mrs. Judith Schwartz
Mr. and Mrs. Billy C. Shackelford
Mr. and Mrs. Chris Simmons
Mr. Louis Ligocki and Mrs. Robin Smith
Mr. and Mrs. George Stelle, Jr.
Mr. John Stone
Mr. and Mrs. David Taylor
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence W. Vickers
Mr. and Mrs. Ted E. Williams
Mrs. Sharon Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Leon Rodney Yeomans
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 35

Corporate Giving
4 Corners Insurance
411 Restoration & Remodeling Services
A Lo Cubano Kitchen
A Plus Pediatrics
Accent Services, Inc.
Advanced Sports Media
Advantage Courts
Allstate-LAMB Insurance & Financial
Aloha Family Dental
AmazonSmile Foundation
Ambassador Cleaners
Amish Pretzel Shop
Animal Clinic of Leesburg
Apple Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc
Arellano Realty & Investments, LLC
Auto Hygiene Professional Car Detailing
Avalon Park Village
Baby Tanio
Bangz Hair Design
Barnhill Golf Institute
Bella Collina
Big Hot Box Food Truck
Bike Law
Blender Boyz Smoothies
Boulevard Restaurants, LLC
Brown & Brown of Florida, Inc.
Buby Tquino’s
Burger Lab Food Truck
Calabria Ristorante & NY Style Pizza
Cannonfire Photography, Inc.
Caribbean Sunshine Bakery
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
Celebrity Auto Group
Center for Ankle and Foot Care
Cherrylake, Inc.
Chicken Bites
Chick-Fil-A of Clermont
Chikiz Empanaditas Gourmet
Citrus Grove Dental Care
Clean First Time
Clermont Bicycles
Clermont Pediatric Dentistry - Dr. Julie Russo,
DMD
Clermont Radiology
Concierge Title Services, LLC
Consortium on Innovative Practices
Core and Main, LP
Cornerstone Music, LLC
Creative Concrete of Central Florida
David Vargas Agency, Inc.
Display America, Inc.
Don Mealey Chevrolet
Draper and Kramer Mortgage
DTS Restorative Services, Inc.
Edward Ganley Painting
El Cactus Azul
Ernie Morris Enterprises, Inc.
Europa Grill, LLC
FH Plus, Inc.
Fillin Good Food Truck
Florida Heart and Vascular Health
Florida High School Athletics Association
Florida Law Center, A Private Law Firm
Forterra Pipe & Precast
Fortiline Waterworks
Garden Theatre
Germana Engineering and Associates
Golden China
Gray Robinson Law Firm
Green Machine Food Truck
Hampton Inn Suites
Hand & Stone Massage & Facial Spa
Hearthstone Real Estate, Inc.
Heartland Dental, LLC
Hole Lotta Donuts
Hursey Financial Services, Inc.
International Junior Golf Academy
INTERSTATE NDT, Inc.
Ironrock Commercial Construction
Jackson, Shah & Company
Jamaican Jerk Hut
Joe’s Liquor
K. Ellen Boutique
Keke’s Breakfast Café
Keller Williams Classic III Realty - Tina DeClercq
Kona Ice of South Lake County
Lake County Manager
Law Offices of Zareefa Khan
LINKS Co., LTD
Magic on your Plate Food Truck
McLin & Burnsed, P.A.
Merideth Nagel, P.A.
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
Miller Brothers Giant Tire Service, Inc.
Mind Immersions
MMI Dining Systems, LLC
Montverde Academy Parents Association
Montverde Ballet Center
National League of Junior Cotillions, Golden
Triangle Chapt.
Nature’s Touch Frozen Foods, LLC
NKSFB-Sports
Oishimotto Food Truck
Oldtimecandy.com
Oley’s Hospitality Group
Olympus Executive Realty, Inc.
On Site Commercial Services
Opticca Consulting
Orlando Health South Lake Hospital
Orlando Oral & Facial Surgery
OXXO CARE CLEANERS - Clermont
Paladin Medical Products
Paradigm Group
Paterson Services, Inc.
Pawsmere
Pepes Cantina, LLC
Pizza A Cone Xpress
Powell Studio Architecture
Prime Plumbing, Inc.
Pure Athletics
Q2Cue, Inc.
Quick Response Fire Protection, LLC.
Raytheon Company
Relevé School of Dance
Renal Consult Services Limited
Risse Brothers School Uniforms
Ritter’s Frozen Custard
RX Capital Partners, LLC
S&J Enterprises
Schmid Construction and Development
Schmid Foundation, Inc.
Seacoast Bank
Shutts & Bowen, LLP
South Lake Multisport Events
South Lake Pain Institute
Speedway Automotive
Steel Worx Solutions, LLC
Sterling Medical Group
Stone & Gerken, P.A.
Success Mortgage Partners, Inc.
Summit Greens Residents Association, Inc.
Team Pasch Academic Coaching
The Big Cheese
The Big Hot Box, LLC
The Crepe Company
The Jerry Barker Group, LLC
The Middlesex Corporation
The Music House, LLC
The Nidy Sports Construction Company, Inc.
The Orlando Law Group
The Team Real Estate Group
The Washo Law Firm, P.A.
Tina DeClercq, Realtor - Keller Williams
Toigo, Inc.
Trinity Farms Life & Spiritual Coaching
Two-6 Resources, Inc.
Uncle Grumpy’s BBQ
United Printing
United Southern Bank
Vita Coco
Walt Disney Company
Warrior ONE Winter Garden Windermere
Welcome Back Shirt Shack
Wired Technologies Group
WithumSmith+Brown, PC
36 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

The Montverde Academy 2020-21 school year is here!
Mark your calendars for these exciting events.
August 14, 2020
MVA Online Auction
September 12, 2020
Welcome Back Reception hosted outdoors
at Centennial Plaza in the center of campus
September 18, 2020
Parents’ Association Welcome Back
Breakfast in the Martha Bedell Dining Hall
September 24, 2020
New Parents’ Reception at the
Headmaster’s Residence
October 10, 2020
Parents’ Association Splash Bash at H2O
Water Park
October 23, 2020
Ted DeWitt Memorial Golf Tournament at
Bella Collina
November 14, 2020
MVA Eagle Dash 5K Family Fun Run/Walk
January 12-16, 2021
MAST Soccer Tournament
January 28-30, 2021
MAIT Basketball Tournament
February 19, 2021
Parents’ Association Lower School Snow
Ball Dance
March 5, 2021
First Annual MVA Celebrity Golf Tournament
at Bella Collina
April 24, 2021
“A Night around the World” Annual
Celebrating Education Gala at the Clermont
Performing Arts Center
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 37

MERISTELL SHACKELFORD
Ms. Shackelford has led the Lower School since its inception
nearly 18 years ago, which has grown from a small, one class
per grade program, to a flourishing program of two classes per
grade from Pre-K3 through fifth-grade, with waiting lists for entry.
“Having the opportunity to be part of the team that opened the
Lower School in 2003 and the blessing of watching the program
grow,” said Ms. Shackelford. “It’s a privilege to watch a threeyear-old
come to MVA and leave as a graduate at 18 and head
to college. Not many educators have that opportunity.”
DR. RACHEL ADAMS
Dr. Adams, Associate Dean of the Middle
School, began in Learning Support Services
working with Mrs. Kesselring to support
students in the Lower School. She helped
build the volleyball program and was key in
bringing beach volleyball to MVA. She is a vital
member of the Middle School team and is
preparing for her second year in the role.
KIM BRAUMAN
Mrs. Brauman, Associate Dean of the Upper
School, has served in a number of divisions
at MVA, making her a valuable asset as
she has followed in step with students from
Lower to Middle and now Upper School.
The knowledge and expertise she has, when
partnered with the relationships she’s built,
ensure that students continue on a successful
path in the more challenging environment of
the Upper School.
PURS
EXCELLE
THE CLAS
ATHLETI
FINE A
By Andrea Colby, Direc
CAITLIN GRIFFIS
Ms. Griffis is the head softball coach and Middle School
P.E. teacher. Coach Griffis, an enthusiastic teacher and
driven coach, sets high expectations and works hard to
help her teams reach those goals. She has a friendly,
helpful demeanor, until you get her in a competitive
situation – she then becomes a fierce competitor who
inspires her team to always give 110 percent. “In my first
year, I was part of history in MVA’s softball program by
making it to the FHSAA State Championship,” said Coach
Griffis. “We were totally the under dogs, not expected to make
it past round one, but our ladies were determined and made a
mark on the softball world. After getting a taste of that championship
game, I can’t wait to have my future teams be able to experience a feeling
like that!”
Montverde Academy is
academics, highly com
award-winning fine arts p
population of more than 1,
range of backgrounds, fi
teach, coach, mentor, and
blessed to have some am
their experience, knowledg
to these roles that are cri
MVA’s s
38 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

KHRYSTAL PHIRI
In Athletics, there are 22 varsity sports teams for boys and
girls to participate in, not including Lower and Middle School
sports programs. At the helm is Mrs. Phiri, Athletic Operations
Director, who manages a very busy Athletics Department.
Mrs. Phiri, a former elite athlete, brings her unique
understanding to the role, leading the small, capable team
to execute and manage logistics for practices, competitions,
tournaments, fields, and more. She joined MVA as part of the
LSS team and is now entering her third season in athletics.
“It’s not the easiest thing to often be the only female, as well as African-
American, in the room with male coaches, but it’s necessary to bring your
thoughts and perspectives to the table,” said Mrs. Phiri. “Every day is an adventure!
I’m honored to be in the position and want to inspire others to dream big and push
themselves out of their comfort zone to achieve their dreams.”
UING
NCE IN
SROOM,
CS AND
RTS
tor of Communications
known for challenging
petitive athletics and
rograms. With a student
,300 students from a wide
nding the right people to
lead is important. We are
azing women who bring
e, skills, and personalities
tical to our students’ and
uccess.
As a leader, she analyzes everything with a big picture perspective. “I have to
think – what affect is this decision going to have down the line? How will it affect
other things? I think that females are very good at this kind of planning, and I love
advocating for our female athletes. I’m proud of the options we offer to all of our
students, preparing them for an amazing experience where they feel prepared for
the next level – whatever that is, because the skills gained as an athlete translate to
college, athletics or your career. I have a mindset of we can work together to create
something phenomenal.”
ERYN BARROSSO
Ms. Barrosso, Assistant Athletic Director, Team
Operations and Events, is Mrs. Phiri’s “right
hand.” Ms. Barrosso brings a fantastic
perspective, is deeply rooted in sports
and lives in the student-athlete space,
which align with the goal of creating the
best experience possible for the studentathletes.
“She does a phenomenal job,
is detail-oriented and driven to excel,”
said Mrs. Phiri. “It shows in her work with
coaches to ensure we are in a good place.”
“One of the best things about being a part of the
team at MVA is how much I have learned in the last two
years,” said Ms. Barrosso. “Every day brings a new challenge.
Being a part of the great programs we have here, in athletics as
well as academically and artistically, is an incredible experience
that I don’t see gaining anywhere else.”
HOLLY ROSENAU
Mrs. Rosenau, Equestrian Center Manager, uses her extensive
knowledge and diverse background in the equine world to
educate her students at MVA. Driven to help students gain skills,
she is also passionate about sharing the opportunities that exist,
not only as a hobby but as a professional in the equine world.
“We have grown our program to have a Varsity and Junior Varsity
Riding Team,” said Ms. Rosenau. “I am so proud of how the
team has grown in knowledge and skill this past year. We have
a wonderful parent group that is encouraging and supportive, it
truly feels like a big, tight knit family.”
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 39

DANA COOK
At our Lower School, Mrs. Cook loves teaching and it shows in
so many ways. With boundless energy, patience and expertise,
Mrs. Cook leads her first graders through an amazing growth and
skill-building year. “As an early childhood educator, my biggest
achievement at MVA has been providing an environment where kids
can be kids, exploring and learning in age-appropriate ways where
their developmental levels are respected,” said Mrs. Cook. “We
expect so much of young children, but my mission and number one
goal is to respect the age they are and guide their social-emotional
development. Nothing else matters if we aren't encouraging
kindness, empathy and a sense of fairness.”
HILLARY CALAMARAS ’11
Mrs. Calamaras is a Learning Support
Services teacher in the Lower School. Not
every student learns the same way, and
Mrs. Calamaras provides focused attention
and support to help each child gain skills
and techniques to achieve success. “It is
wonderful to be a part of a team that is eager
to collaborate and support one another in
order to provide the best education possible
for our students,” said Mrs. Calamaras. “I
am constantly learning new things from my
colleagues, and so glad to be a part of a
team of teachers who are all committed to the
success of our students!”
LOULA PARKS
Our Middle School teachers are adept
at helping students find their voice, build
confidence and become more independent.
Ms. Parks, sixth-grade English teacher,
is passionate about reaching students
and building a strong, solid foundation for
their success in reading and writing. She
understands that students have a variety
of paths to success and works to find the
strategies that work for each student.
SANDY TAMASI
Ms. Tamasi teaches English to eighth-grade
students, sharing her never-ending energy and
enthusiasm for reading and writing with students.
With a goal of making students good writers who
enjoy reading, she also helps her students prepare
and transition to the Upper School, providing a
safe environment for self-expression. She is always
thinking of new ways to effectively connect and
inspire students to share their unique perspectives.
40 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

The role that teachers play at MVA is enormous. More than 70 percent
of our faculty hold advanced degrees and we have many wonderful
teachers in each division. With a commitment to excellence, our
teachers help their students strive toward excellence daily.
DR. ANNE BROWDY
Dr. Browdy was a university professor who
brought her skills and expertise to MVA in
2009. She partners tremendous proficiency
in math with compassion and empathy for
students to walk with students through
the process and ensure they comprehend
the concepts. “I am most proud of my
students’ mathematical successes,” said
Dr. Browdy. “Students have shared that they
thought math would always be a struggle or
didn’t think that they were good at it, but after
taking my course, their outlook changed. I feel
blessed to make a difference in my students’ lives,
and to be a positive role model for them.”
CANDACE DIETRICH
Ms. Dietrich, Upper School math teacher
and Department chair, is a long-term
faculty member whose goal is that
students build a solid foundation and
understanding of math skills. Highly
respected by students and peers, Ms.
Dietrich selflessly ensures that faculty are
taken care of, and students are supported to
continue an ongoing pursuit of excellence that
MVA is known for.
KRISTINE WALSWORTH
Mrs. Walsworth, Upper School English teacher
and Department chair, works to provide students
with a well-rounded educational experience.
“Through programs like our Back to School
Read, Authors on Campus and a variety of guest
speakers, our department positively impacts the
MVA culture, and I’m really proud of that!” said Mrs.
Walsworth. Her love of reading, passion for writing
and belief that laughter is essential to learning make her
classroom an inviting, engaging experience.
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 41

ROBERTA EMERSON
Ms. Emerson, Theatre Director, brings a wealth of knowledge
and experience to the Theatre Department, creating awardwinning
productions that captivate and delight audiences. As an
artist in her own right, she supports, encourages and challenges
student actors to take risks and embrace self-expression. “I want
students to learn that they are the leads in their own lives,” said
Ms. Emerson. “If they want something – go for it. If they don’t
like something – change it. They have the power and ability to do
whatever they want, as long as they set their minds to it. I hope
they learn the courage and confidence to be their whole unique
selves and live in their bodies fully.”
MARY MINCY
Mrs. Mincy is a dedicated and talented
piano instructor and accompanist for
student musicians in the Music Conservatory
program. A passionate teacher, she meets
students where they are, and through an
organized, methodical plan, helps them
achieve their highest potential. Her love of
music is contagious, and she inspires that love
of music in her students. Frank Guo, an MVA senior,
credits Mrs. Mincy with helping him improve as a pianist and
artist. “She’s a skilled teacher who encouraged me to approach the music
differently, to show emotion through my playing for a deeper connection to
the music and the audience, which makes me a better pianist.”
“The best part of being a part of the MVA community is the shared passion
and commitment for teaching and the emphasis that is placed on making
decisions based on what is best for the students,” said Mrs. Mincy. “I have
learned so much from working with people from different countries, cultures,
backgrounds, and talents.”
GINA MOBLEY
Students in the Lower School begin to build their interest and love of music in
classes led by Mrs. Mobley. As the music teacher, Mrs. Mobley brings her
energy and talent to classes, encouraging students to experiment with
different musical instruments and introducing different styles of music.
Whether teaching, leading the Lower School Children’s Choir or
directing performances, she helps students understand the elements
and tools used to make music, and take it from just entertainment
to a creative, engaging form of self-expression. She has a
wonderful way with her students, using all of her resources to bring
music alive in the classroom.
“What I am most proud of is the Montverde Academy Children’s
Choir,” said Mrs. Mobley. “Our dedicated group meets each week
after school for one hour, and boy, do we work hard. I love seeing
students ‘find their voice’ among others who love music, or stretch
themselves to try out for a solo with our group or Florida All-State Choir. My
delight is found standing in front of those smiling children encouraging them to do
their best as they encourage others with their angelic voices.”
42 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

SAVE THE DATE
Montverde Academy invites you to the first annual
CELEBRITY
GOLF TOURNAMENT
MARCH 5, 2021
at Bella Collina
Tournament begins at 9:00 a.m.
Lunch and auction at 2:00 p.m.
For sponsorship information, contact Kalena Meyers
kalena.meyers@montverde.org
407.469.2561 x 6002
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 43

MIDDLE SCHOOL
Teacher of the Year Laura Fagan
By Ms. Loula Parks, Middle School Social Studies teacher
It happened overnight: the way Middle
School students discussed assignments
had changed. They began talking about
“performance tasks” – level one, level
two and level three. The level threes were
spoken of with awe: “Level Threes are
due on Friday!” By Monday, level three
samples would be posted outside the
seventh-grade history classroom and
standing proudly on the book shelves at
the end of the hall evidencing creativity,
inquiry and learning.
The students spoke about the need for remediation and
assessment reconciliation – new more serious terms which
encouraged students to take ownership of their learning.
It was exciting because this new vocabulary presaged a
change in the culture of the Middle School. Our students
began speaking and thinking like professional historians
and scholars. I submit that this transformation can be
traced back to one teacher, a new teacher, our Middle
School Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Laura Fagan.
Mrs. Fagan came to Montverde Academy last year from
Windy Hill Middle School, wetting her feet in the MVA
culture by teaching in the SPARK program in July before
joining the seventh-grade team as a history teacher (Early
U.S.) and Leadership and Service Learning instructor.
From the start, Laura demonstrated two firm beliefs – that
literacy belonged in the domain of every subject and every
student possessed the inherent power to succeed. This
was evidenced in each rigorous task she assigned as well
as the structure and freedom she allowed that enabled her
leadership students to imagine, design and enact projects
that enhance the atmosphere and culture of the Middle
School. One of her amazing seventh-grade students,
J.P. Fortes Ribero, says Mrs. Fagan “grabs our attention
the way she has us deconstructing sources, so we really
learn about historical events.” He goes on to say that in
addition to teaching source deconstruction, she inspires
her students by teaching them many different ways of
taking notes (Cornell Notes, timelines, double-bubble, and
shrinking notes) which encourages her scholars to be wellprepared
and successful in assigned projects.
“Mrs. Fagan has been such an influential teacher in my
life,” said Zoha Bajwa, one of her talented students.
“She has not only been a role model in her academic
field but in real life too, with her outstanding character
and effervescent personality. She has taught me so
many valuable life lessons, and they have really helped
me become a better and happier person. Mrs. Fagan
has always been someone who I have been comfortable
to come to with my problems because she has such a
welcoming and warm atmosphere around her, and I really
appreciate how many times she's helped me with issues
that were academic or even personal. She is always caring
about all her students, and tries to help in any way she
can. She's just, overall, an amazing person.”
Middle School can be a developmentally difficult time
for students, and Laura Fagan is there for each of her
students, easing their struggles while at the same time
holding them to a high standard of academic rigor, a
balancing act she handles like a Wallenda.
As a colleague, Laura’s generosity of spirit is humbling.
She shares her materials, thoughts and wisdom as soon
as she recognizes a need. Within minutes of a parentteacher
conference and sometimes within the meeting
itself, digital native that she is, Laura will diagnose a need
and then pull up or create just the right tool to support a
struggling student. I’ve seen this over and over in meetings
throughout the year.
Working with Laura is truly a joy! We are all so blessed that
she has chosen to teach here at the MVA Middle School.
She is someone we all can learn from. Congratulations
Mrs. Fagan!
44 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

o
FEATURING
A Night
Around
the
World
The Event of the Year!
SATURDAY
24
APRIL
6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
CLERMONT PERFORMING
ARTS CENTER
3700 South Hwy 27
Clermont, Florida 34711
Join Montverde Academy in the 17th Annual Celebrating Education
fundraising event. This year’s theme, A Night Around the World,
will feature international food, drinks and entertainment along with
our fabulous silent and live auctions.
A Night Around the
TICKETS &
SPONSORSHIPS
Tickets and sponsorships are now
available for the biggest event of the
year. Enjoy an unforgettable evening in
first class as you travel around the globe
without having to check your bags.
A night around the
General admission to this exciting event
is $150.00. Guests are invited to dress
in semi-formal attire or in their home
country’s ceremonial wear.
For more information: visit montverde.
org/CE2021 or email Kalena Meyers at
kalena.meyers@montverde.org.
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 45

Making MVA Excellent
THE Women Behind the Scenes
By Andrea Colby, Director of Communications
Montverde Academy is a bustling campus of activity on a daily basis. Behind the
scenes, it takes a whole cadre of staff to ensure everything is operating smoothly.
There are 300+ students living on campus during the year along with 1,000 students
arriving to campus daily, so all of the behind the scenes activity contributes to the
overall excellence that MVA is known for.
There are smart, strong women working to help the
Academy continue to provide an amazing educational
experience for our students and families.
CARLY OGDEN, Business Office
Manager/Comptroller, works in MVA’s
Business Office handling a multitude
of business aspects that keeps things
running smoothly. Carly has been a
part of MVA for 15+ years, serving in
Admissions and as a Dorm Parent before
joining the business office team.
“Carly is an integral part of the Business
Office, where she has worked alongside
me for 11 years,” said Brad Long,
Business Director. “She has enhanced
the experience for MVA parents, students
and employees, making them aware
that she is there to help out with any
questions or concerns. Her hard work
and dedication are shown through her
staff and to MVA employees. She strives
to be sure that MVA is the best place to
work and to enroll your students.
The Student Center is a vibrant hub of
activity where students can study, relax,
socialize, outfit themselves with spirit
wear, grab a snack, and chill. It has been
run by LYNNE MOORE since 2011 after
she had also worked in Admissions for
a number of years. “I enjoy my position,
where I can get to know the students,
who they are and be a part of helping
them mature into young adults,” said
Lynne. “I am proud to create a space
that is safe, fun, relaxed, and full of love
and respect for one another. Another
achievement I’m proud of is being able to
annually help a student with a scholarship
my husband and I established in our
son’s honor. MVA is our family.”
Students don’t get into MVA without
working with our Enrollment Management
team where HEATHER CABANISS,
an Associate Dean of Enrollment
Management, focuses on helping Upper
School students get to know MVA. Often
the first impression families have of the
Academy, she travels abroad and gives
tours on campus, introducing families
to MVA, a critical role that she
exuberantly embraces.
She considers MVA a special place. “A
few weeks after joining the MVA family, I
was diagnosed with a rare form of Stage
3 breast cancer,” said Heather. “New
colleagues and Academy families rallied
around me immediately, some of whom
had never met me! Seeing that level of
support and friendship confirmed for me
that the MVA community is inclusive and
strong. The Parents’ Association even
decorated the Admission Office with
a pink Christmas tree, complete with
pink boxing gloves, in support of breast
cancer awareness!”
46 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

GINNY HOLM, Director of Publications and
Marketing, has also been with the development
team for 12+ years and has touched all of the
marketing materials, signs, flyers, advertising,
and more that brand Montverde Academy.
She ensures that everything is consistent and
well-represented from the website to t-shirts to
printed materials to signs and more. When you
see an MVA piece, you know it’s MVA because
of her attention to detail.
“We’ve come a long way from the hand drawn
athletic logo and original circle logo,” said Mrs.
Holm. “Our “brand” began to evolve with the
Centennial Celebration where we morphed the
original logo into a special event logo, which
then became our current logo. The athletic logo
is a much bigger accomplishment. That was
originally a hand drawn eagle that progressed
into a respectable, unique and fierce design
that captures our MVA spirit.”
The Development team focuses on
branding MVA, developing relationships
with the community and fundraising.
KALENA MEYERS, Director of Events
and Community Relations, has been
at MVA for 12+ years in development,
beginning here when it was a small
department. She is ingrained in the MVA
and South Lake County communities,
well known for her generous heart and
fantastic events.
“I am most proud of what our fundraising
efforts have been able to achieve,”
said Ms. Meyers. “I love the sense of
accomplishment we feel when we hit
goals that help complete important
projects. Seeing all the amazing buildings
and fields that directly benefit our
students, I like being a part of this growth
and change. The sense of community
and family is definitely the best thing for
me personally. I love seeing students
graduate from college, start families and
careers. I keep in touch with parents and
students from around the world and love
the feeling that they will always be part of
our family.”
Dorm parents play a critical role for more than 300 boarding students who live on
campus, many who are, for the first time, hundreds of miles away from their families.
CATHY PODGUSKI, who is in her eleventh year, and DIANE PAGAN, in her eighth
year, are Dorm Parents who thrive in their roles, providing guidance, support and
comfort that students and their families need.
“I have many great memories, but the most humbling thing for me is seeing students
arrive – excited and scared – and watching them blossom into beautiful young
adults,” said Mrs. Podguiski. “I always encourage the students to embrace each other
and the different cultures to make friends that last a lifetime. Nothing for me is more
precious to see them become like family.”
“I remember one student’s parents visited in October and they were all crying because
their daughter was so homesick,” said Mrs. Pagan. “I convinced them to hold on until
Christmas break and reevaluate then, and they agreed. Their daughter returned to
campus because she missed it. I’m proud to say she ended up becoming one of our
finest Prefects – she grew into such a relatable and amazing role model!”
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 47

Student mental health and overall
well-being is also a priority. ALLISON
VARNADO, Associate Director of College
Guidance and School Counselor, uses
her extensive knowledge and expertise
to help students prepare for college. As a
licensed therapist, she counsels students
in a variety of ways from teaching healthy
practices such as mindfulness and yoga
for stress management and helping
navigate difficult situations to serving as
a support system to assist students in a
holistic manner.
The Nurse’s Office is a busy place.
TIFFANI LAW and MONICA CASTRO
are the nursing team who assist
MVA’s more than 1,300 students in
all divisions when they aren’t feeling
well or if there’s been an injury.
They also schedule appointments,
treat symptoms and help manage
prescriptions for more than 300
boarding students in coordination
with other staff. “We find it rewarding
to help students and make them feel
better,” said Mrs. Castro. “Our top
priority is to ensure the health and
safety of our student body, as well as
everyone on campus. We take great
pride in doing our jobs and serving as
a resource for MVA families.”
Another person behind the scenes in
a key role is KAREN HALL, Registrar.
She is responsible for the accuracy and
timeliness of the official student records.
“I started at MVA for the 2000-01 school
year when there were only 102 students
and 20 seniors in the Upper School,”
said Mrs. Hall. “I am proud of my work,
as I have consistently maintained the
accuracy and integrity of the student
records through the growth, different
software and all that goes along with
these processes, from year to year.”
In the Dean’s Office, MARGARET
PRICE, Assistant Dean of Students for
Multiculturalism, Leadership, and Student
Programs, keeps the more than 800
Upper School students on track and
engaged while providing community
service and leadership skill-building
opportunities. She joined MVA as a Lower
School substitute teacher in 2015, and
consistently moved up serving in the
after-school care program, study hall, and
ESL, and is entering her second year as
Assistant Dean.
“I am proud to be part of the Dean of
Students office,” said Margaret. “Our
office is challenged with providing
opportunities and activities which extend
the educational experience of our
students outside of the classroom. We
are excited about the year ahead and
look forward to partnering with other
faculty and staff to improve many aspects
of MVA student life, particularly in the
areas of leadership development, cultural
awareness and community cohesion.”
48 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

A final peek behind the scenes is at an area that
functions so well, it is often forgotten but critical, is
transportation. Transportation is an important aspect
of the Academy’s operation, ensuring the safe and
timely transportation of students to and from the airport,
games, performances, appointments, and more.
BRENDA CATRON, Transportation Coordinator, has the
daunting task of managing all of MVA’s transportation
needs. There are daily bus runs to pick-up and drop-off
day students, vehicles needed to transport students
to medical appointments, games, events, and trips
daily, not to mention ensuring the buses are gassed up,
clean and serviced. And she manages all of the driver’s
schedules and the CDL licensing process at MVA.
She has been a critical part of ensuring that things run
smoothly and safely for the large fleet of buses and vans
that MVA operates, working in conjunction with many
different departments to meet everyone’s needs.
SEPTEMBER
25-26
“Brenda has been with MVA for a long time and is an
important member of the team who can be relied upon
to get things done,” said Bill Moore, Director of Facilities/
Project Manager. “We have a very busy campus with a
lot going on, so we often have to shift gears to manage
things that pop up. She’s the one who makes sure
things don’t get forgotten, while also making sure all the
transportation details are taken care of.”
Montverde Academy has nearly 300
staff and faculty members who all
work together toward the common
goal of providing our students with
the best educational experience and
environment possible.
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 49

Sports Wrap Up WINTER AND SPRING
By Emilio Giler, Sports Information Director
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Coach Laura Harper led the Lady Eagles to an 18-6
winning record, earning impressive wins over top nationallyranked
opponents such as Lake Highland Prep in the
Florida Prospects Championship game. One of the team’s
accomplishments this season was having all five senior
student-athletes commit to play basketball for NCAA
Division I colleges and universities.
BOYS BASKETBALL
The Eagles varsity basketball team finished the season
as the No. 1 team in the nation according to USA Today
polls with Cade Cunningham (’20) as the No. 1 recruit. The
team recoreded a perfect regular season with a winning
record of 25-0. The Eagles won four in-season tournaments
including the City of Palms Championship, the John
Wall Invitational Championship, the Montverde Academy
Invitational Championship, and the St. James Invitational
Championship. Seniors, Scott Barnes, Cade Cunningham,
and Day'Ron Sharpe were named to the 2020 McDonald’s
All-American Team, marking the first time MVA had three
athletes compete in the McDonalds All-American Games at
once. The Eagles were projected to win the 2020 GEICO
National Championship Tournament and voted the Best
High School Team of the Decade in a MaxPreps poll.
TRACK & FIELD
The track and field team started their 2020 season with
spectacular performances at the Seminole Invitational held
at the National Training Center with multiple athletes earning
top placements, broken state records and personal records
in many events. The girls track team won their fourth
consecutive Championship at the MVA Eagle Invitational
and the boys had their highest placement in MVA history
earning second out of 15 high school teams.
“Like the rest of our staff, we wish the season didn't come
to an abrupt end, but we also know that the future is bright
for the MVA track team, and next year will be our best
season yet,” said Lori Treweek, Head Coach.
EQUESTRIAN
The MVA equestrian team enjoyed one of their best
seasons yet, taking more than ten horses to each show
to earn multiple Grand Championship Ribbons at every
competition. One of their biggest achievements as a
team was at the Battle of the Barns, a show in Claracona
Horse Park that hosted a field of 120+ horses. There the
Lady Eagles achieved a school record-setting five Grand
Championship finishes.
TENNIS
The Eagles tennis team was once again on their way to
compete in the 2020 DecoTurf High School Tennis Team
National Championships. Last year, the boys team won their
first national championship at the event and look to defend
their DecoTurf High School National title. The girls team
earned a top 10 placement out of 32 elite teams and were
on track to contend for their first national championship. The
Eagles are coached by Jaime Oncins, former Olympian and
current 2020 Davis Cup captain of the Brazilian National
team, who was voted the MVA 2020 Female Sport Coach
of the Year.
BOYS LACROSSE
The MVA lacrosse team earned big wins over North Cross,
a team out of Virginia, Lake Minneola, and Lake Wales
High School during their shortened season. Though they
did not have the opportunity to finish their season due to
COVID-19, they played well in the games they were able to
compete in.
“Although this season will be forever known as the season
that didn't happen, the boys never lost sight of the ultimate
goal which was to get better every day as a studentathlete,”
said Chris Spaulding, Director of Lacrosse.
SOFTBALL
The Lady Eagles had another great season, and for
the second time in school history, earned runner-up at
the Montverde Academy Softball Tournament (MAIST).
Although most of their season was cut short due to the
COVID 19 preventative measures, the softball team seniors
earned athletic scholarships and had three athletes named
to the 2020 All-District Team.
BASEBALL
The Eagles baseball team earned big wins over Sunshine
Elite Academy and Mountain View High School and were on
track for stellar season. The team’s seniors earned several
scholarships to play baseball at Division I, II, III, and NAIA
collegiate levels.
“I am extremely proud of our athletes and the way they
persevered this season,” said Victor Valencia, Head Coach.
“Although it was short, the team made the best of their
season and we look forward to competing again next year.”
BOYS SOCCER
The Eagles boys varsity soccer team finished their season
with a winning record of 17-1-1 and were once again
successful in earning Division I, II, III, and NAIA collegiate
scholarships. Santa Ihara (’20), SIMA student-athlete,
was honored with the Gatorade Player of the Year for
Florida. Student-athletes Ates Diouf and Omar Ciss, signed
contracts to play soccer professionally with the Austin Bold
FC, a member of the United Soccer League (USL).
50 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Bradley Peterson Kai Eisenhart Santa Ihara
Julia JeBailey
Girls Varsity Basketball Team
Softball Team
Manuel De Garcia
Ernani Neto
Cade Cunningham, Day’Ron Sharpe and Scott Barnes
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 51

A New “Norm” for
the Arts
By Dean Bell, Director of Arts
Kaylin Gines and Aidan Corrie in “Mamma Mia”
52 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Orchestra performing with pianist Charl du Plessis
Aidan Fracker recording for
Love and War
It seems like a lifetime ago. . . and in many ways it was. . . that the MVA Theatre
Department put on four completely sold-out performances of “Mamma Mia” in the
Sandra O. Stephens Auditorium. People were singing, laughing, and dancing, beach
balls were flying, glo-sticks were waving, and the overall atmosphere was one giant
party – enjoyed by all. Little did we know how quickly that would change.
Just a little over two weeks later, the news arrived that
face-to-face classes would not resume after Spring Break.
The news arrived during dress rehearsal for “The Glass
Menagerie,” which was slated to open a second showing
that weekend. The stage went dark, the halls turned
silent and the season ended. “The Glass Menagerie” was
cancelled here and at its two showings at the Tampa
Theatre during the Florida State Thespian Festival. The
award-winning production of “Medea,” which had advanced
to the State Festival, was also finished. The honor of being
selected as one of the opening acts in Tampa for our Large
Group submission did not come to pass, nor did the six
Critic’s Choice award winners who may have added further
accolades in their performances at State. The Choral
Cabaret, “Diva e Divo,” which was widely anticipated in its
inaugural offering as a full-scale dinner theatre, was boxed
up. “Twelfth Night” faded into the night. Concerts, recitals
and other small offerings planned before the end of the
school year, appeared to all be victims of the virus which
hijacked our plans. And so, we went dark.
It would have been easy for that to have been the end
of this article. For many fellow actors and musicians
from schools nearby and across the country, it was. Arts
organizations worldwide shuttered themselves in what was
hoped to be a short-term crisis, only to discover that was
far from the case. Many of them, unfortunately, are in dire
straits with the possibility of not recovering from the blow
of COVID-19.
As we pondered our direction early in this quarantine, on
top of the task of reimagining providing instruction via
distance learning, one thing became clear – to borrow from
NASA, “Failure is not an option.” As with most challenges,
the difficulty is accepting the change that is needed. It
wasn’t that the Arts couldn’t continue to happen, it was
simply the Arts couldn’t continue the way we have “always”
done it. Fortunately, artists have a tremendous capacity for
change. With that as a guiding tenet, we revisited truths we
thought were absolutes, and defined a “new norm.” In the
90s, we called it “thinking outside of the box,” and in the
2000s, “shifting your paradigm.” Until a phrase is coined for
this time period, I like “reimagining the possibilities.” How
fortunate we are to be able to reimagine the Arts.
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 53

Cast of “Mamma Mia”
Montverde Academy is fortunate to have one of the finest
Arts faculty in Florida, so it is no surprise that in undertaking
this “reimagining,” it was essential to find ways to continue
delivering the very best opportunities to our students,
while continuing to engage our community with highquality
performances. We immediately began working to
devise possibilities and methods to accomplish both of
these things. What was born out of those efforts was the
“Montverde Academy Festival of the Arts.” This new and
unique series presented multiple events which were free
and accessible via the Montverde Academy Fine Arts
Facebook page.
In April, we premiered a play reading of “NOISE,” the new
play MVA commissioned, by playwrights Ezra Brain and
J. Andrew Norris for the 2020-21 theatre season. A venture
into new technology, our Theatre Conservatory used Zoom
to rehearse, and then connected to Facebook Live from
Zoom to present the “live” show to an audience. The results
were better than anticipated. To date, the play reading has
reached more than 2,000 viewers. Having demonstrated the
success of the platform and the audience response to such
offerings, plans moved on full-speed to prepare the Festival.
We began with our vocal music students in a presentation
designed to fill the cancellation of “Diva e Divo.” The newly
designed “virtual” Choral Cabaret was the first event
of the Festival. The presentation featured solo cabarettype
selections from Choir students who recorded their
performance which was then melded together into an
evening of entertainment broadcast to our audiences
via Facebook.
The following week featured two seniors in the Music
Conservatory presenting their Senior Recitals. Yilin (Selina)
Xu was featured on her cello every afternoon for a week with
pieces from Bach, Elgar and Popper. The week concluded
with Zayna JeBailey, vocalist, and her recital which included
classical, contemporary and pieces she wrote herself.
Week three began with our orchestra performing a piece
commissioned especially for MVA written by and featuring
pianist Charl du Plessis, titled “I am Sailing.” This piece was
written for strings, four pianos and voice, and beautifully
wove Bach’s 1st Prelude and “I am Sailing” by Rod Stewart.
For this concert, each student performed from their own
home, and the resulting videos were woven together to
create the final product. Later that week, we presented the
Senior Freeplays, which were the final projects of the three
Theatre Conservatory seniors: Valarie Kutemeier, Benazir
Serna and Hanna Swidler.
54 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Broadcast of Love Heals
The final week of the Festival saw the production of
three One-Act plays, “Actually,” “Agamemnon,” and
“Declaration” over three consecutive nights. The
Festival concluded with the Music Conservatory juniors
and their theatrical journey titled “Love and War.”
This aggressive foray into using new technologies
proved to be incredibly successful with posts reaching
15,000+ views and growing daily. Performances are
still available on the Montverde Academy Fine Arts
Facebook page. Factually, the scope and reach of our
program has never been greater than at this moment.
These performances represent more than 36 sold-out
houses of our theatre, a feat which would have been
unprecedented under normal circumstances.
Borne out of the desire to ensure our leadership in the
Arts continued, MVA has embraced this “new norm.”
We continue planning to provide the highest quality
Arts education and performances for our students
and community. We appreciate your support and look
forward to seeing you – whether in an auditorium,
socially-distanced performance, online presentation, or
other possibility yet to be imagined.
Applause Award nominees for
“Mamma Mia”
• Outstanding Musical
• Outstanding Orchestra
• Outstanding Lead Performers – Kaylin Gines, Peytann
Tamasi, Isabella Crider, Judy Hassanein, Aidan Fracker
• Outstanding Supporting Performer – Anthony Morehead
• Outstanding Dance Performer – Hanna Swidler
• Honorable Mention in Performance – Hanna Swidler
• Outstanding Music Director – Dean Bell
• Outstanding Stage Manager – Valarie Kutemeier
• Outstanding Set Designer – James Erwin
• Outstanding Lighting Designer – Kelly Lemos
• Outstanding Sound Designer – Cynthia Lu
2019-20 Top Conservatory Awards
Music
• Top Music Conservatory Female Student – Yilin (Selina) Xu
• Top Music Conservatory Male Student – Dylan Truenow
Theatre
• Featured Actress – Maya Mills
• Featured Actor – Lucas Brown
• Supporting Actress – Kaylin Gines
• Supporting Actor – Joshua Brown
• Best Actress – Peytann Tamasi
• Best Actor – Anthony Morehead
• Outstanding Technical Theatre – Sara Khan
• Outstanding Composition and Music Direction – Aidan
Fracker
• Outstanding Thespian – Benazir Serna
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 55

MONTVERDE ACADEMY
2020-21 THEATRE SEASON
written
by
Bruce
Norris
FALL 2020
The Songs of Leiber and Stoller
FALL 2020
FALL
2020
By William Shakespeare
A TEENAGE PANIC ATTACK ON
NATIONAL THEMES
By Ezra Brain and J. Andrew Norris
56 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020
SPRING 2021
The 2020-21 Season is dedicated to the memory of William Daniel Mills (,22)

REMEMBERING
DANIEL MILLS
Daniel as Quasimoto
By Andrea Colby, Director of Communications
It is with deep sadness and regret that we share the news of the passing of
Daniel Mills, a Montverde Academy student, who tragically passed away in
an accident in May 2020. Daniel began at MVA as a Lower School student
and would have entered his junior year this fall. He was a very fine student,
gentleman and talented actor and singer who was well-liked by his peers
and theatre “family.” An avid Theatre Conservatory student, he counted
performing in “Mamma Mia” as his 10th show and fourth show as part of
the production team. He earned a leading role in the 2019-20 season’s
production of the “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” played Rapunzel’s
Prince in the 2018 production of “Into the Woods,” and performed as
Arpad alongside his sister, Maya (’20), in the 2018 production of “She
Loves Me.” He was also a passionate singer who participated in Choral
Cabaret productions and earned many nominations and awards for his
theatre participation.
“Daniel was smart, intuitive and a very empathic young man,” said Ms.
Roberta Emerson, theatre director. “I got to spend a lot of time with Daniel.
As his theatre director first and then as a friend of his family. He always
knew when and how to say the right thing and he could change the energy
of any room he walked into with just that sly smile. He was a center piece
of our theatre troupe who made us all work harder. Because he cared
so much, so did we. So, when I speak about Daniel, it is with a joy that
matches that in which he brought to all of our lives. We will remember his
smile, his talent, his stubbornness, and his incredible ability to make a
friend in the first 10 seconds of knowing them. When we speak of Daniel,
we will speak about his endless goodness so that it continues to have a
lasting effect on this world that needs it so badly.”
His memory will live strongly at Montverde Academy – his voice pervasive
in the walls of the theatre and his many characters etched in memories. His
sense of humor and joy for life will be treasured by those privileged to have
known him.
Daniel in “She Loves Me”
The Mills Family
The Montverde Academy community offers our deepest condolences to
the Mills family, who have been extremely active in the MVA community
with Harold and Rosy being dedicated supporters of MVA’s Fine Arts
and Athletic programs, and wonderfully supportive cheerleaders of their
children, Vanessa (’19), Maya (’20) and Daniel.
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 57

UPPER
SCHOOL
Teacher of the Year
Jeff Wexler
By Rebecca Martinez, US ESL teacher
When asked to write this tribute to Mr.
Jeff Wexler, I was so honored because
Mr. Wexler isn’t just a good teacher, he is
a great teacher. I have worked with many
good teachers during my career, but very
few great teachers. Great teachers have
something special which sets them apart.
Great teachers don’t just teach; they
inspire, motivate, encourage, and demand
greatness from others.
Respect is what really makes Mr. Wexler stand apart. I
remember having a teacher like Mr. Wexler in high school.
At first, this teacher seemed to demand almost impossible
things in class. Until one day I suddenly found myself
succeeding in class. All because my teacher saw our
potential as learners and believed in us even when we didn’t
believe in ourselves. Mr. Wexler does that in his classes,
managing to make the impossible happen in his classroom
daily. His students leave his classroom better for having
been taught by him.
There are more than just high academic standards in Mr.
Wexler’s classroom; many students also learn responsibility
the year that they take his class. He doesn’t just teach
English, he also teaches those important life skills these
young adults need to be successful: integrity, honor and
a willingness to learn. This is because in Mr. Wexler’s
classroom, there is a mutual respect between the teacher
and student. He treats his students as professionals who
deserve to have the best education possible.
Mr. Wexler is also respected and admired by his colleagues.
He routinely interacts with all departments about best
practices for teaching ESL students. His door is always
open to answer questions. I know this because I seek
his advice or help almost weekly. I know that I can go
with any questions; from how I should group students, to
advice on how to present new material, and Mr. Wexler will
always have the answer. Other teachers also seek out Mr.
Wexler for professional advice, calling him, dropping by his
classroom or seeking him out at lunch. He always has the
time for others.
Our job as educators is “to inspire students to become
leaders with a passion for knowledge, global vision and
innovation while developing character in a nurturing and
diverse community.” This is our mission and you could find
no better example than Mr. Wexler. Congratulations to him
as our Upper School Teacher of the Year.
‘”Teachers teach because they care. Teaching young people
is what they do best. It requires long hours, patience, and
care.” – Horace Mann
58 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

STUDENT
SPOTLIGHT
By Andrea Colby, Director of Communications
Students leaders are plentiful at Montverde Academy. In the Class of 2020, two young
women stood out as leaders, Carolina “Nina” Chaves, who was head prefect, and
Adeline “Addie” Mizelle Gerken, Student Government President.
Nina, a native of Brazil, was chosen Head Prefect for the 2019-20 school year.
In the role, she served as point person for all prefect projects, worked as the
administrative liaison and helped engage all of the Upper School students in the
MVA culture. Prefects in general are leaders and excellent communicators in
their class, leading activities, getting student body feedback and participating in
student activities, athletics and/or fine arts, and Nina was outstanding.
One event in particular, the Halloween Dance, demonstrated Nina’s ability to
lead. She was able to bring all the volunteers together and partner with the
Student Government Association in a congenial way to create an amazing
Scare Zone. Though there were many different ideas and strong personalities,
her ability to compromise, respect different perspectives and redirect the group
made the event run smoothly to become a tremendous success.
“Nina has a sensibility and way with people that is caring, positive and
compassionate,” said Mr. David Bernatavitz, Dean of the Upper School. “Any
task she was given she accomplished with tact, grace and understanding
in a manner that always created consensus. She always brought infectious
enthusiasm, embodied positivity and would always figure out ways to get the
job done where everyone was included and happy, which resulted in fun events
for everyone.”
Carolina Chaves
Addie Gerken, Class of 2020 Student Government President, is a strong
leader and compassionate person who took her role seriously and worked
hard to help build school spirit. She was instrumental in making the Halloween
and Homecoming dances fun and exciting events for students that certainly
enhanced the student experience.
With ambition to succeed, she was a member of the Montverde Academy
Energy Team and the Academic team, and was a member of the Key Club, a
Distinguished Scholar and a member of Montverde International Futbol Club
(MIFC). She used her communication and organization skills well as a passionate
voice to make changes that benefitted the student body as a whole whenever
possible. She was selected the MVA Female Scholar Athlete of the Year.
Adeline Gerken
“There are few students who are a better examples of hard work and
determination than Addie Gerken,” said Mr. Kyle Clapper, Upper School –
History/Educational Technology Coordinator. “Though many leaders possess these traits there are none whose striking
character has inspired so many within the MVA Community. Addie is a shining example of hope, reliance and courage.
Through the many challenges faced, she carries herself with a quiet confidence and fiery spirit that can overcome
obstacles, and breaking down barriers of expectation and false understandings. There are few students who I would trust
more than Addie.”
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 59

RELATIONS
By Mark Wright-Ahern, Alumni Relations Coordinator
The Montverde Academy Alumni Association is a vital part of our continued growth
and plays an important role in maintaining and creating life-long relationships with our
graduates. The Class of 2020 overcame unprecedented challenges to finish the school
year strong. We are proud and happy to welcome the Class of 2020 to the Alumni
Association. Life brings on many challenges that are sometimes unplanned and this
year our graduates have shown what great leaders and world changers they are.
In the spring, we relaunched our class agents’ program
and have had several alumni become class agents.
Class Agents play a vital role in developing connections,
encouraging other alumni to participate, planning events,
and highlighting alumni who are making a difference
in their communities. With approximately 4,000 MVA
graduates all over the world, the best way to connect
and grow our network is through our existing alumni.
Please contact me at mark.wright@montverde.org for
more information about the association or to become
a Class Agent.
This summer, we will introduce our new Alumni
Association Board for the 2020-21 school year. It is my
goal to keep alumni engaged and excited about all the
great things taking place this upcoming school year.
There are four alumni-only events lined up for this year,
and we invite you to be a part of what’s happening on
campus and around the world. Stay connected by joining
the alumni Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn social
media pages for updates.
We are also planning to roll out a mentor program this
fall. The mentor program will partner alumni with current
seniors to share knowledge with each other. Some plans
I am working on will include a dinner for seniors and
alumni and guest speaker workshops. I’ll share more
details as they become available.
As the saying goes, “time flies!” We want to celebrate
and share our alumni’s milestones. While we may not
catch all of them, we can do better with your help.
Please connect with us through an email or social media
to share your news with your MVA family. If you are
getting married, starting a new job, launching a company,
purchasing a new home, welcoming a child, receiving
an award, or more – WE WANT TO KNOW! We will
celebrate and share your news via social media and The
Tower magazine.
Stay well and Go Eagles!
60 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

ALTERNATIVE BREAK
By Dolly Rath ’18
In November, I decided to go on an “Alternative Break”
with my school, Xavier University. An “Alternative
Break” occurs over spring break for different groups
of students to travel across the country and immerse
themselves in communities. I was chosen for the Washington
D.C. trip. The National Coalition for the Homeless is in charge of
this experience and believes that by immersing oneself into the homeless community,
people will gain a better understanding of what it is like to have nothing. The group
stays at the Father McKenna Center, a facility that provides a rehabilitation program
for homeless men. Our group would clean, cook and work in the food pantry, and also
experience homelessness by immersing ourselves in the homeless community for 48
hours. This means that we are sent out with no money, no food and no shelter.
My group consisted of three guys and three girls. We
split into pairs for the first 24 hours and would meet up at
9:00 p.m. at Freedom Plaza to find a place to sleep. I was
paired with a guy named Desmond who was extremely
enthusiastic about this immersive experience.
All three pairs were sent in different directions, and
Desmond and I decided to go to a park. There was a
group of homeless people there, so we sat next to them.
Eventually, they noticed us and came to talk to us. They
mentioned that we looked young, and we explained that
we had left foster care together. The National Coalition for
the Homeless advised us to make up a story so we would
look believable as homeless people. One woman, Dana,
was completely heartbroken because we were so young.
She went into her bag and gave us two sandwiches, two
oranges and a cookie. The man next to us gave us $10.
These two people, who were homeless and had been
through some rough times, gave us their money and food
so that we would be okay for the day. I was taken aback
by their generosity and so was Desmond. We tried to
refuse the money and food, but they demanded we take it.
Desmond and I left the park feeling equally grateful
and guilty.
We stopped to panhandle for three hours in the business
district of D.C. and we earned $2. The worst part about
panhandling was not that we did not earn enough money
for dinner or that we wasted three hours, it was that the
people who walked past us refused to acknowledge us. It
was as though we were invisible.
That night, Desmond and I met up with everyone else
and went to sleep in Freedom Plaza. Nothing could have
prepared me for that night. Rats scurried along the ground
and it was freezing. I felt like I was going insane, and I even
told Desmond that I would rather be stabbed in the thigh
than continue this experience. I got an hour of sleep the
whole night and woke up feeling like a madwoman.
The next 24 hours were spent panhandling and napping on
benches because of how exhausted we were. When we
returned to the Father McKenna Center, all of the men were
curious to hear about our experience. I told them that they
were the hardest 48 hours of my entire life, and I was so
grateful for it. I have reached a higher level of thankfulness
for my family, education and community.
The men at the McKenna Center treated me with the
utmost respect. When I was cleaning the floors, they would
cheer me on. When I was serving them dinner, they were
always sure to thank me. Before this experience, I would
have gone to the other side of the street if I saw a homeless
person. I would have thought that the person was just lazy
and a drug addict, which is why they were homeless. Now I
understand that people that find themselves in this situation
are may be just like me, but they have just fallen on hard
times. I would encourage anyone who finds themselves
walking past a homeless person to just smile at them and
say hello, because that will mean the world to them.
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 61

Meet Gloria Katuka ’15
By Mark Wright-Ahern, Alumni Relations Coordinator
Gloria Katuka (’15) has had an amazing life journey that
began with a flight from Zaria, Nigeria to Montverde,
Florida in 2011. Nine years later, as a graduate from the
University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in information
systems and a master’s degree in information systems and
operations management, she attributes her academic and
personal achievements to the firm foundation that her four
years at MVA provided her. She attributes her presence at
MVA to Dr. Kesselring, Dr. Pyke and Mr. and Mrs. Bergin,
who made it possible for her to attend the Academy.
Following in her brother’s footsteps, literally, Gloria boarded
a plane for the first time and travelled thousands of miles
away from home to MVA’s dorm, which she called home for
the next four years. Despite fear and uncertainty, she was
excited about the opportunity that attending the Academy
offered and the prospect of being closer to her brothers,
Joseph Katuka (’07) and Daniel Katuka (’13), who were
attending and playing basketball at MVA. Gloria also played
basketball and enrolled in the STEM program, where she
was one of two girls to complete the STEM accreditation
in her senior year. She credits the STEM education as the
foundation of her passion to pursue a career in IT.
While at MVA, Gloria navigated many culture differences
in which she had to adapt, but one in particular stood out.
“In my country and many other cultures, it is considered
improper to look adults and people of leadership in the
eye as a sign of respect,” said Gloria. “When I first arrived
in the U.S., people would think that I was being rude or
disrespectful for not looking them in the eye when speaking
with them. It took me some time to adjust as it was such a
part of my culture and how I was raised. I worked to change
that while in the States. It was a small thing, but embracing
change helped me navigate through American culture
and made me realize that I had to make other lifestyle and
cultural adjustments in the future.”
In addition to the embracing the change and diversity, Gloria
says that one of the most important things she learned while
at MVA was mentorship. “Mentorship is the gift that never
stops giving. I have received that gift all through my life and
am blessed to give back in a similar way,” said Gloria. At
MVA, she was blessed to encounter teachers, staff and
dorm parents who helped build the foundation of her lifelong
development. “Ms. Judy, my dorm parent for many years,
helped me navigate the dorm life and made it a home for us,
Mrs. Hopman encouraged me to be kind and resilient, and
Mrs. Bekemeyer was my core in navigating through tough
challenges and continues to be a constant role model in my
life,” said Gloria.
Even after graduating from MVA, she continues to seek
mentorship opportunities and has been inspired by the
strong women around her. She is blessed to have two
strong and outstanding women mentors, Sheila Jordan
and Dr. Kristy Boyer, who were instrumental in helping her
follow her dream to pursue a successful career in Computer
Science (CS) and Information Technology (IT).
Gloria saw the huge disparity gap in CS and IT education,
especially for minorities all around the world, and within the
Photo courtesy of Harvard University
62 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Gloria assisting students
Gainesville community. She created TECHarge, a non-profit
organization that plays a vital role in integrating information
technology into public schools’ curriculum from elementary
to high schools. As a leader in her field and through her
community development programs, she is driven to see
more people of color get involved in CS and IT academics
and careers. Through TECHarge she has reached hundreds
of middle and high school students in Gainesville, and
works closely with the Reichert House, a program that
teaches programming to middle school boys run by the
Gainesville Police Department, through her “Tech Tuesdays”
afterschool program.
“I founded TECHarge to inspire students in the Gainesville
area to expand their thirst for STEM education. Building
a nonprofit to help others was an opportunity to combine
my passion for what I do with others and pay it forward for
the opportunities I had. Our mission is to bridge the gap in
the education system by providing students with a full IT
package, including a sustainable curriculum, where they
can acquire valuable technical skills while networking and
building relationships with successful members of their
community in the same field through the “TechConnect”
mentorship programs,” said Gloria.
Gloria will transition to the UF Herbert Wertheim College of
Engineering in fall 2020 to pursue her Ph.D. in computer
science, continue to follow her passion for CS/IT education
and serve her community through development initiatives.
“
Don't be afraid to try new things
like moving to a new country or
challenging yourself. If you make
a mistake, it's okay, but don't stop
creating experiences that will build
your life.
”
Gloria Katuka ’15
Gloria’s advice to MVA students is to live in the moment.
“Don’t be afraid to try new things like moving to a new
country or challenging yourself. If you make a mistake, it’s
okay, but don’t stop creating experiences that will build your
life. As you go through life make sure you are building strong
relationships with everyone you come in contact with. Life
is meant to be celebrated and when you can, rejoice with
others,” said Gloria.
We congratulate Gloria on all that she’s achieved and wish
her continued success.
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 63

Meet Kailin Kesselring ’13
By Mark Wright-Ahern, Alumni Relations Coordinator
There are Montverde Academy alumni who are boldly taking
on roles as leaders in the world every day. One such alumn
is Kailin Kesselring (’13) who has channeled her passion
for fashion and entrepreneurial spirit to launch K. Ellen
Boutique, a successful boutique in Shelbyville, Tennessee.
Kailin’s experience at MVA is a little different than a typical
student, being the daughter of the headmaster. “Having
lived there for nearly 20 years, Montverde Academy was not
only a school to me, but a home,” said Kailin. “My teachers
and peers were more like family. My studies and teachers
taught me discipline, the culturally diverse environment
provided me with a more worldly perspective and sense of
community, and the high standards of character instilled in
me the importance of integrity and moral values.”
With a love of fashion and self-awareness that she wanted
to work for herself, Kailin worked in retail throughout college
and quickly learned that helping others came naturally
to her. She attended Middle Tennessee State University
and majored in fashion merchandising, with a minor in
entrepreneurship to prepare her for managing a business
and sharing fashion expertise with others.
To grow as a leader in her field, she strives to differentiate
herself in the variety her store offers, from mens’ to
womens’ clothing, accessories and gifts, as well as price
points and age range. “I have been expanding my gift
lines and I’m always looking for the next cool and different
thing! I hope to make a difference in the environment and
experience I provide here at K. Ellen. I want people to come
back because they felt comfortable or because I made them
feel good, not just because I had a good sale that day.”
“
My teachers and peers were more like
family. My studies and teachers taught me
discipline, the culturally diverse environment
provided me with a more worldly perspective
and sense of community, and the high
standards of character instilled in me the
importance of integrity and moral values.
”
Kailin Kesselring ’13
Mentors have helped her achieve her goals. “My parents are
definitely my mentors as they have taught me the morals
and values that make me who I am and without that it
doesn’t matter what my business is or isn’t. Watching my
dad build Montverde Academy over the course of the last
25 years is a prime example of what I hope to do with my
own business. The way my mom has supported and guided
him over the years is exactly how they both are helping
me now. In addition to them, my dear friend Laura Lester,
owner of The Farmer’s Daughter Boutique in Hopkinsville,
Kentucky, has helped and advised me in more ways than
I can count! She is a great business woman, fashionista,
friend, and her store is amazing. I can only hope to be half
the woman she is and have half as fabulous of a boutique
as her!”
64 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Kailin has fond memories of MVA with her fondest being
winning the senior speech award. “I just gave an honest
account of my experience and everything Montverde
Academy meant to me and how it developed me into a
young adult over the course of nearly 10 years. It was very
emotional and special to me to be honored for it. Besides
that, memories with some of my very best friends that I met
at Montverde Academy are ones that I'll cherish forever and
friendships that will last a lifetime.”
Though she has been in the working world for a short
time, she has opened a successful boutique and launched
an online presence that is growing. She has incorporated
different tactics such as pop-up shops into her business
strategy, and continues to educate herself in business and
fashion. Advice she shares with MVA students is, “There
are so many things I could say! Number one, don’t be a
jerk. The rules may seem dumb sometimes, but I promise
one day you’ll look back and be grateful for Montverde
Academy, and wish you hadn’t smarted off to your
teacher or your parents. Number two, build and maintain
strong relationships. A classmate now could become a
colleague later, and a teacher now is a great resource or
recommendation letter in the future! Number three, for the
seniors especially - IT IS OKAY NOT TO KNOW. It’s okay to
change your mind, to not know what you’re doing or where
you’re going as long as you keep going until you figure
it out!”
Congratulations to Kailin on the success of K. Ellen Boutique!
“
It is okay to not know. It's okay to change
your mind, to not know what you're doing or
where you're going as long as you keeping going
until you figure it out!
”
Kailin Kesselring’13
Kailin at the grand opening of K. Ellen Boutique
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 65

Meet Renata Martins ’16
By Mark Wright-Ahern, Alumni Relations Coordinator
People often dream of changing their life by going for what
they envision it could become, but many others don’t have
the courage to follow after their goals. Renata Gomes
Martins, a native Brazilian, did not allow her circumstances
determine her future. Her family life was very humble as
a child, and having an opportunity to attend Montverde
Academy was a dream come true.
While growing up, Renata never imagined the probability of
attending a school in the United States. Her father began
working at 12 to help provide for the family, and her mother
worked with her family in local farms. They worked hard
to provide their family with a very humble life, saving every
penny to provide food and a quality education in Brazil.
It was her parents who instilled the belief that you can
achieve your dreams if you worked hard enough and were
humble enough.
Renata played sports at a young age, developing her
gift and passion for volleyball. At 12 years old, she was
recruited to play competitively. The coach connected
Renata with coaches at MVA, who poised the possibility
of attending and playing at MVA, prompting her to work
even harder.
With her parent’s support, Renata pursued the dream over
the next seven months, navigating the application and
immigration processes, getting a passport and visa, and
buying a plane. She prepared for the adventure, asking
for help from her English teachers, coaches, mentors, and
future MVA teammates at MVA who she knew in Curitiba,
her hometown in Brazil. When the MVA acceptance letter
arrived in the mail, she was thrilled to accept.
The first year at Montverde Academy was the most
challenging year of her life. She didn’t speak English fluently,
which made communicating difficult and relied on team
teammates to translate for her. She persevered though the
challenges, to develop an amazing support system that
included her coach, Dr. Adams; dorm parent, Ms. Cathy;
teammates and their families; teachers; and new friends.
“
The opportunity to become friends with
people from all over the world broadened my
horizons. What I learned from each person and
being able to immerse myself in their cultures
made me a new person.
”
Renata Martins ’16
“Everybody encouraged me and helped me adjust,”
said Renata. “I had such an amazing support system
who helped me become the best version of myself. The
opportunity to become friends with people from all over the
world broadened my horizons. What I learned from each
person and being able to immerse myself in their cultures
made me a new person. It helped me realize that studying
Global Business was the right path for me.”
66 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

In the last semester of her senior year, Renata pursued an
ambitious dream of learning to play the piano by taking
piano and music theory with Mrs. Mincy. “Mrs. Mincy is
an incredible pianist and accompanist at MVA, and an
extraordinary teacher who made the classes challenging
and fun. She helped me learn to play my favorite piano
piece, “Nuvole Bianche,” by Ludovico Einaudi in only 14
weeks. I’m grateful to her for helping me surprise my family
with my performance of the piece for them after graduation.
What a special moment that was – on top of graduating
from MVA!” said Renata.
“There are so many great moments and people to thank
for my time at MVA. I remember shaking hands with Mrs.
Walsworth before every English 4 class, being the first
Brazilian to take AP Government (and pass it!) with Mr.
Clapper – which was the most difficult class I’ve ever taken,
but the donuts he brought everyone on Thursday made
it so worth it! And becoming the first “Queen of the Eagle
Beach” at the MVA Sand Volleyball Courts – there’s so
many memories,” shared Renata.
Her time at MVA taught her that it is the life relationships
that will help us achieve our goals. She believes that
without a support system, it is very difficult to achieve but,
with a strong foundation, she has been able to accomplish
some great things. Renata graduated in May with a
bachelor’s degree in global business from the University of
South Florida.
Renata has learned that giving back is the most important
thing someone could ever do and that it’s ok if you don’t
have financial resources right now. You can donate what
you have, which is time and energy sometimes. She feels
incredibly blessed have earned the opportunity to learn all
of this and feels that it is her duty to pass this knowledge
on. This past summer, she spoke with 400 teenagers at the
volleyball NGO, where she started her volleyball “career,”
and at her hometown high school in Curitiba. She shared
the story of her journey and the important things she
learned, and visited she got to speak in each class room,
student-to-student, athlete-to-athlete.
Renata believes in a generation that appreciates the
opportunity to study. She wants to help better this world
through education because she knows it is possible and her
life is the proof. For now, her goal is to continue this project
around the world as a mentor while also calling on inspiring
personalities to become mentors to 2020 graduates.
The advice she shares with MVA students is this, “The
people you will meet while at MVA are some of the greatest
gifts you could wish for. Cherish them!”
Renata speaking at the Volleyball NGO program in Brazil
Education project in Brazil
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 67

1 2
3
4 5
ALUMNI CLASS NOTES
1946
(1) WILLA POPEJOY
recently celebrated her 91st
birthday. We wish her the
best!
1981
(2) ANNETTE LORA
ALFONSO then and now!
1984
(3) INGRID
HOFFMANN then and
now!
(4) ER RADCLIFFE then
and now!
1990
(5) JENNIFER SNIDER
then and now!
2006
Congratulations to REXY
ROLLE on being featured
in a Forbes magazine
article discussing her career
as a vice-president of a
Bahamas-based airline, an
attorney and a music artist.
2007
(6) Alumnus and former
MVA middle school teacher,
JORDAN FOLEY (Web
Editor at Stetson University)
visits one of his former MVA
middle school students RJ
ROGERS ’17 on campus.
RJ is a Political Science
major at Stetson University
and is involved in the Army
ROTC program.
2009
Congratulations to
JEANNIE HÒA
NGUYEN and her
husband. They're expecting
a baby boy in October!
2010
The MVA Alumni Association
understands the adversities
of COVID-19 challenges
us to evaluate and reaffirm
our faith, to reconnect
with the things in life that
are most precious to us –
most especially our family
and friends. The Alumni
Association would like to
celebrate with GEORGIA
PTOHOPOULOS for
overcoming COVID-19.
She shared her personal
moments with us as she
left St. Joseph’s Hospital in
Tampa.
2013
(7) VICTORIA TORRES
came out to support the
MVA Theatre department's
production of “Mamma
Mia.”
2014
(8) Dr. Kesselring and
Coach Kevin Boyle caught
up with D'ANGELO
RUSSELL in NYC
while he played for the
Brooklyn Nets. He currently
plays for the Minnesota
Timberwolves.
Congratulations to SIMA
alum DIEGO CAMPOS
on signing a multi-year
professional contract with
FK Jerv in the Norwegian
First Division.
2015
BEN SIMMONS is
using his time to help those
affected by COVID-19. He
is raising money for Fight 2
Fund with other celebrities
and professional gamers.
CHRIST KOUMADJE
was named the G-League’s
Defensive Player of the Year.
Congratulations!
2016
(9) HEATHER HOLM
graduated from the
University of South Florida
with a engineering degree.
She is working as a civil
engineer at Eriksson
Technologies. Congrats!
68 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

6 7 8
10 11
9
CASSIE RATHIE
stopped by campus
recently. She will
be graduating from
Shenandoah University
Conservatory program with
a BFA in acting. Cassie can
be seen in a Netflix original
movie, “Santa Girl” and will
be in the upcoming movie,
“A Cupid for Christmas.”
(10) The COVID-19 crisis
can’t stop celebrations of
love. Congratulations to
DESTINY NICOLE who
married Dalton Hanger in a
small ceremony in March.
Congratulations to IGOR
SCHATTAN for being a
recipient of the 25 under 25
program for the University of
South Florida Muma college
of business!
The SIMA team hosted
special guest speaker and
MVA alumna MARIAH
BASTOS in a zoom
conference call.
Congratulations to SIMA
alum BRUNO LAPA on
signing with Birmingham
Legion FC in the USL
Championship League! Lapa
came to the SIMA program
from Brazil before heading
to Wake Forest where he
had outstanding seasons
receiving honors such as
2018 ACC Midfielder of the
Year, MAC Hermann Trophy
Semifinalist and more.
SIMA alum MALICK
MBAYE signed a
professional contract with
North Carolina FC in the
USL Championship league!
He had an all-star senior
season with the Clemson
Tigers in the ACC.
SIMA alum ESTEBAN
CALVO signed a
professional contract with
FC Tucson in USL League
One after graduating from
NCAA DI University of
Portland.
Congratulations to
SIMA alum ERNESTO
APPLIEFIELD who
just signed a professional
contract with FC Eurotours
Kitzbuhel in the Austrian
Regionalliga League.
DAVONTA JORDAN
started all 32 games for
the University of Buffalo
and named MAC Defensive
Player of the Year!
Pro golfer ANA PAULA
VALDES saved a woman
from drowning in a lake
after a practice round at
a mini-tour event in Bella
Vista, Arkansas. “I feel like
it has touched me for life,”
said Valdes. “I don’t want
to sound crazy, but it was
spiritual and emotional for
me, being able to do that for
someone else.”
Congratulations to HALLE
LU PITNER. She will be
attending the University of
TN, Knoxville in Fall 2020 as
part of the dual MBA/MSBA
program!
(11) Congratulations to
MICAH POTTER on his
recent engagement!
2017
RJ ROGERS did a great
job working with community
members and coordinating
the peaceful protest in
Clermont for Black Lives
Matter.
Congratulations to
SIMA alum ENRIQUE
FACUSSE who was called
to the preliminary U23
Honduran National Team
roster as they compete in
Olympic Qualifier matches.
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 69

12 13 14
15 16
ALUMNI CLASS NOTES
Facusse currently plays for
the NCAA DI University of
Kentucky as a goalkeeper.
Congrats to SIMA alum
EDWARD KIZZA on
winning Male Performance
of the Year as a member of
the Pittsburgh roster.
2018
Congratulations to
SIMA alum SHELOVE
ACHELUS on being called
to the U23 Haitian National
Team to compete in the
Olympic Qualifier for the
CONCACAF Region.
Congrats to SIMA alum
and goalkeeper NIKO
HARTMANN. He received
the FAR Character Award at
LSU Shreveport for his work
on and off the field.
(12) Congratulations to
BRUNO PESSOA
on being named 2020
Intercollegiate Tennis
Association NAIA All-
American. Pessoa finished
the year nationally ranked
No. 16 and met the criteria
of finishing in the top 20 of
the final Oracle/ITA national
rankings for singles.
Congratulations to SIMA
student-athlete FARIS
MOUMBAGNA on
signing a three year
professional contract with
KB Kristiansund in Norway's
top flight league!
(13) Congratulations to
SIMA alum ABDOULAYE
DIOP on signing his first
professional contract with
Atlanta United 2 in the USL
Championship League! This
midfielder came to SIMA
from Senegal and went on
to play at Eastern Florida
State College before singing
professionally.
2019
(14) Big congrats to SIMA
alum PHILIP MAYAKA
on winning Male Rookie
of the Year at Clemson
University's #CLEMMY
awards!
(15) PRECIOUS
ACHIUWA is the
first Memphis Tiger to
win American Athletic
Conference Player of the
Year and Rookie of the Year
since 1982!
Congratulations to SIMA
student-athlete ATES
DIOUF on signing a
professional contracts with
Austin Bold FC in the USL
Championship League!
2020
Congratulations to
SUMMER FOSHEE and
BERNADO SILVA on
their engagement!
(16) Congratulations to
SIMA student-athlete
OMAR CISS on signing
aprofessional contracts with
Austin Bold FC in the USL
Championship League!
If you have news to submit for Class
Notes, email alumni@montverde.org.
70 THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020

Join us for Montverde Academy’s first annual family
Saturday, November 14, 2020
SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!
Email Kalena Meyers for more information.
kalena.meyers@montverde.org
TITLE SPONSORS
LACE UP THOSE SHOES,
HAVE SOME FUN
AND STAY SIX FEET AWAY FROM EVERYONE!
THE TOWER | SUMMER 2020 71

Montverde Academy
17235 Seventh Street
Montverde, Florida 34756
FRIDAY
OCT. 23, 2020