During Athens Academy’s Upper School Honors Day in May, Head of School John Thorsen and Upper School Director Susan Zalac were pleased to recognize several members of the Class of 2019 for their outstanding performance during their Upper School years.
Eden Avolio and Kate Williams received the Robert F. Marion Award for Service, which is presented to those seniors whose outstanding service to the school and community as their actions reflect the selfless devotion to the ideals and philosophy of Athens Academy as manifest in the spirit of lifetime trustee Robert Marion (1925-2009). This fall, Eden will attend the University of Miami and Kate will attend the University of Georgia.
Congratulations to recent graduates Lexye Hill and William McLanahan, who were honored with the Richard J. Patterson Spartan Award during Athens Academy’s Upper School Honors Day in May. This award, named in honor of longtime biology teacher Richard Patterson, is presented those seniors who loyally exhibit school spirit and radiate that special enthusiasm that inspires other students. Through conscientious academic initiative and participation in school activities, these students best exemplify the finest personal qualities of honor and concern for their fellow man.
This fall, Lexye will attend the University of Forida and William will attend Georgia Tech. Way to go, Spartans!
During Athens Academy’s 49th commencement exercises on Sunday, May 19, 2019, several members of the Class of 2019 were recognized for their outstanding character, citizenship, and school spirit:
Students’ Award for Excellence: Alex Branch
This award, given by the students of the Upper School, is presented to the senior who best exemplifies the qualities of scholarship, leadership, character, and school spirit. Alex was recognized for contributing significantly to the life of the school while setting an example for others. He will be attending the University of Georgia in the fall.
The Head of School Award: Cooper Camp & Charles Clarke
This award is presented to two seniors who, through the influence of character and unselfishness, have made significant contributions to the life of the school. This fall, Cooper and Charles will both attend the University of Georgia.
The Kirk B. Oliver, Jr. Award: Mason Harvill & Tommy Warner
These seniors’ involvement has had a significant impact in many areas of school life throughout their years in the Upper School. With total commitment and without expectation of recognition, both have shown dedication and support for the common good, willingly taking on challenges with dignity and courage. This fall, Mason will attend Oxford College of Emory University, where he has signed to play soccer. Tommy will attend Emory University.
During Athens Academy’s 49th commencement exercises on Sunday, May 19, 2019, several members of the Class of 2019 were recognized for their outstanding performance as student-athletes during their Upper School years. The awards, and those who received them, include:
The Andrew B. Swan Award: Will Hays
New this year, the Andrew B. Swan award is named in honor of Drew Swan, a 2017 Athens Academy graduate who, exhibiting perseverance, a tireless work ethic, and a generosity of spirit, came to personify the sporting ideal of engaging in intense competition while maintaining respect and appreciation for one’s opponents. This year’s award was presented to Will Hays for demonstrating unwavering commitment to personal improvement and true sportsmanship. Will will attend the University of Georgia this fall.
The G. William Thurston Athletic Award: Greer Moseley & Jack Thomas
This award is presented to a senior boy and girl athlete whose keen sense of sportsmanship combined with superior athletic skill reflects the merits of Mr. Thurston. These athletes consistently portray competitive excellence with honor in attitude, effort, and performance. Greer will attend the University of Georgia, and Jack Thomas will attend the College of Charleston, where he is signed to play baseball.
The Scholar-Athlete Award: Alyssa Baugh & Alex Branch
This award is presented to a senior boy and girl who have achieved outstanding records in both academics and athletics. This fall, Alyssa will attend Brigham Young University—Hawaii, and Alex will attend the University of Georgia.
Athens Academy has received the Strength of America Award from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition for the ninth consecutive year.
Led by Coach Bryan Pulliam, Athens Academy’s strength and conditioning program was measured in four major categories: supervision, education, program, and facilities. The award will be presented during the NSCA’s National Conference Awards Banquet on July 12, 2019, in Washington, D.C.
