2017 Distinguished Alumnus

Jacob Edward Peavy ‘99

Jacob Edward Peavy is a 1999 graduate of St Paul’s who led the Saints to a state baseball championship under Coach Andy Robbins. Jake was named Alabama high school player of the year in 1999 and declined an offer to pitch for Auburn University in order to accept a major league baseball contract from the San Diego Padres. He played with the Padres farm teams, including the Mobile Bay Bears until 2002. He won the 2007 Cy Young Award after recording the Pitching Triple Crown that year. He has played for the Chicago White Sox and in 2013 for the Boston Red Sox where he helped win a World Series title. In 2014 he was traded to the San Francisco Giants where he also helped win a World Series title. He became the first starting pitcher in Major League history to win two consecutive World Series with two different teams in two different leagues. An avid Crimson Tide fan, Jake was a guest on ESPN’s College Game Day in 2013.

Jake is known for being a leader both on and off the field, and his spirit for giving back to others resulted in the 2012 creation of the Jake Peavy Foundation. Through his Foundation Jake hopes to positively impact lives and strengthen the local communities where he has had the privilege of playing baseball. His recent work, Focus Forward: A financial literacy program, was awarded the 2017 Education Innovation Award by NASDAQ.

He has also been instrumental in the development of music venues in downtown Mobile, such as Ten Sixty Five. Jake’s love of music inspired him to learn to play the guitar and with his group, The Outsiders, to perform at benefit concerts. He also maintains a close partnership with the Boys and Girls Club and Create Change: A Mural Arts Program.

Jake enjoys life on his family property, Southern Falls Plantation in Wilcox County. He is the proud father of four sons, Jacob, Wyatt and Judd St. Paul’s students, and Waylon who is two.

2017 Distinguished Alumna in the Arts

Leigh Jordan Brown ‘78

Leigh Jordan Brown is a graduate of St. Paul’s class of 1978. After graduation, she attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas where she graduated with a degree in political science and French. Leigh’s plan was to attend law school after college, until her senior year when she took a photography class and discovered her passion.

Leigh’s love for photography continued after graduation leading her to a job at PMT Publishing doing photography for Alabama Magazine and Business Alabama. After having children, Leigh decided to do freelance photography before landing her dream job teaching photography at St. Paul’s. After teaching part time for a couple of years, Leigh began full time in 1998 and has loved every minute of it.

Along with Leigh’s love of photography, she chose to teach rather than further her freelance career for a reason; she enjoys instilling a purpose in her students to be creative in whatever career they choose for their future. She is proud of her students that follow their passion and love of photography. Leigh resides in Mobile with her husband, Paul. They have two daughters and a son-in-law, Jordan Brown and Caitlin and Mike Marshall, who are also St. Paul’s graduates.

2017 Distinguished Service Awards

Lydia Knizley Johnson ‘01

After graduating from St. Paul’s in 2001, Lydia Knizley Johnson attended Auburn University where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Communication. Lydia is currently the Director of Christian Education at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. In 2012, Lydia helped create and implement the Raise the Roof Project with a colleague. Raise the Roof Project is a home repair ministry partnership of Dauphin Way United Methodist Church and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mobile. They connect people in need with groups willing to repair roofs and build relationships in the South Broad Street community of Mobile. Lydia has also been a Diocesan Commissioner for youth and young adults since 2015.

While serving the Mobile community, Lydia has also been an avid volunteer for St. Paul’s. She has been involved in many alumni activities as well as a volunteer coach for the Junior Varsity Track and Cross Country team and Girls on the Run. Most recently, Lydia helped establish a scholarship at St. Paul’s in memory of her classmate, Josh Justice. Last spring, with the help of some classmates and the Justice family, the first Josh Justice Memorial Scholarship was awarded to a rising senior who showed interest, promise and desire to explore in the performing arts. The student was also sought to embody characteristics that bring people together and bring out the best in others, much like Josh demonstrated during his lifetime.

For her commitment to her community, Lydia was a member of the 2012 Mobile Bay Monthly’s 40 under 40 class. She further serves our community through her involvement with Ransom Ministries, Salvation Army Mother Daughter Tea, and Sunset Rotary Club. Lydia and her husband, Wyatt, reside in Mobile with their son, Will, and their daughter, Lisee, who is due September 27.

The E. E. Delaney Foundation, Inc.

The E.E. Delaney Foundation, Inc., was established in 1982 in honor of E.E. “Bill” Delaney, the founder of Delaney Development, Inc. Its purpose is to give back to the Mobile community in the form of charitable contributions and services. The Foundation currently supports the American Cancer Society, Dauphin Way United Methodist Church, the Infirmary Foundation, the Mitchell Cancer Institute, the Village of Spring Hill and St. Paul’s Episcopal School. Many of the partners of Delaney Development, Inc. continue to be an integral part of St. Paul’s. The Delaney/Frost families are alumni, current parents, grandparents, parents of alumni, Board of Trustee members and, of course, volunteers. The Foundation acknowledges St. Paul’s for providing the basis for students to develop, learn, grow and ultimately better Mobile. The Foundation has supported St. Paul’s in athletics for decades with the E.E. Delaney Stadium, press box and scoreboard and the Jim Tate Field House. Most recently the Foundation extended its support to the new Student Commons Building with a generous gift. St. Paul’s is indebted to the Delaney Foundation and families for their continued support and service.

Meghan Elizabeth Austin

Meghan was an enthusiastic and vital part of both the basketball and track and field programs at St. Paul’s. Meghan was recognized as a St. Paul’s Bryant-Jordan Recipient, A.S. Mitchell Female Athlete of the Year, St. Paul’s Athlete of the Year, and received both All-State athletic and academic honors. Meghan’s four-year letterman basketball career included over 1000 points scored, all area and all regional basketball teams, serving as basketball team captain for two years, as well as being St. Paul’s Gatorade Rookie of the Year in 2004. Meghan was selected to represent Team USA in the National Scholastic Sports Federation International Competition in Puerto Rico and placed 1st in javelin. She was 2005-2007 state champion in javelin, as well as a runner up in discus in 2006 and 2007. She currently holds the all-time, all-classification state high school record in javelin with a throw of 150-02. She received All-County and All-State track team selection for three years, as well as all metro outdoor track team selection for 2007. Meghan went on to accept a track and field scholarship to The University of Alabama where she continued to excel in athletics. She received repeated NCAA recognition for Outdoor All-SEC 2008 through 2011, All-SEC All-Academic Honor Roll, Outdoor SEC Championships Runner Up in javelin, selection for NCAA Mid-East Region Team, and All-American. Meghan is currently ranked #3 All-Time in school history for women’s javelin at The University of Alabama. Meghan graduated from The University of Alabama with a degree in exercise and sports science minoring in nutrition. She continued her education in graduate school at the University of South Alabama earning her Master’s in Exercise Science. Meghan now lives in Mobile, where she continues to positively impact others, working for The American Heart Association as their Youth Marketing Director, or as most know her, “The Jump Rope for Heart Lady.”

Shawn Michael Collins

Shawn was a valuable part of both the baseball and football programs at St. Paul’s, winning the Mostellar Award in 2007, and being recognized as the 1st & 10 Club’s Defensive Player of the Week in 2005. He was also named Fellowship of Christian Athlete’s Defensive Player of the Week in 2006, and Most Valuable Special Teams Player in 2005. Shawn was an explosive player with a positive impact on his teams. Shawn went on to receive baseball and football scholarships from Birmingham-Southern College. He is currently working as a CNA at Grand Bay Convalescent Home and Assistant Manager of DJ’s Diner. Shawn resides in Grand Bay with his wife, Bethany and their one year old daughter, Kennedy.

Jordan McMullan Diaz Ledesma

Jordan was an integral member of the volleyball and soccer programs at St. Paul’s throughout her high school experience. In 2006, Jordan was part of both a runner up volleyball State Championship team and a State Championship track and field team. While excelling athletically, Jordan was also a talented asset to the strings program, playing violin for the duration of middle and high school. Jordan went on to play volleyball at the University of South Alabama where she was a defensive specialist and received a degree in business with a concentration in human resources. She also attended graduate school to earn her MBA with a concentration in HR. Jordan resides in Mobile with her husband, Yadier. She currently works as a Human Resources Business Partner with Chevron Corporation.

Morgan Johns Eddins

Morgan participated in track, swimming, tennis, and volleyball. While an all-around athlete, she was most recognized for her impactful role on the St. Paul’s volleyball team. Morgan was a part of the First Team All-State and All-State Tournament Teams both her junior and senior years. She was recognized as a Super 12 player her senior year, and was selected to play on the South’s team in the North/South Volleyball All Star Game. In 2006, Morgan was a part of an outstanding St. Paul’s volleyball team that brought home the State Championship for the first time since 1995. Morgan received a scholarship to play volleyball at Auburn University, where she continued to gain recognition on the volleyball court and studied communications and public relations. She went on to be 2010 volleyball team captain, was awarded MVP on her team of 23 players, was selected by the SEC to the All SEC Team, and helped lead the Auburn Tigers volleyball team to their FIRST NCAA tournament in history, making it to the top 16. Morgan now resides in Mobile with her husband, Bart and their three year old son, Knox.

Richard Mark Foster

Richard was an impactful asset to the basketball team while he was at St. Paul’s. Lettering in basketball for 2004-2007 as well as serving as the Varsity Basketball Career Assist Leader. Richard was also involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Key Club, and Chorus. He graduated from Auburn University where he earned a degree in Accounting. Richard currently resides in Fairhope and works as a Physical Therapy Technician at Azalea City Hand and Rehab, and a Personal Fitness Trainer at Crossfit Saraland.

Carter Owen Franklin

Owen was an asset to the St. Paul’s golf team and was a part of the 2004 State Championship team. Owen was also involved in the St. Paul’s Student Government Association, as well as The Fellowship of Christian Athletes. After graduation, Owen went on to play collegiate golf at Birmingham-Southern College, earning a degree in mathematics. He continued his education at Auburn University where he received a degree in mechanical engineering. Owen and his wife, Tiffany, now reside in Huntsville where he serves as President of Franklin Creative Solutions, LLC.

Haley Wilson Goodman

Haley was an avid and talented tennis player during her high school career. She received recognition as All-County from 2002 to 2007. Haley brought home both individual and team State Championships for 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007; as well as runner up for both individual and team in 2003. Haley was involved in National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish National Honor Society, and more, all while maintaining Headmaster’s List status. Following graduation, Haley attended The University of Alabama, where she earned a degree in elementary and special education. She continued her education at The University of West Alabama, earning her Masters in elementary education. Haley and her husband, Parker, reside in Southaven, Mississippi where she works as a reading specialist at Horn Lake Intermediate School.

Hannah Lynn Griffin

Hannah Griffin was an asset to the St. Paul’s softball program from 7th grade through her senior year. She was named to the All-State Softball Team and the Mobile Press Register Super 12, along with earning 4A/5A All-County honors for the third time during her senior campaign. She went on to play softball at The University of Southern Mississippi and at The University of West Alabama, where she graduated with a degree in physical education and special education. She attended graduate school and coached at Union College in Kentucky. Hannah currently serves as Head Softball Coach at Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire.

Angelica Elyse Howard

Angelica played a vital role in the success of the volleyball team, as well as the indoor and outdoor track and field programs during her time as a Saint. Angelica’s accomplishments are endless and include being named Mobile All-County Track & Field, as well as Mobile All-County Volleyball for 2006 and 2007. Angelica was an A.S. Mitchell Award recipient for Outstanding Female Athlete of the Year, a two-time recipient of The Optimist Club Athlete of the Week, as well as All-State Selection for both volleyball and track and field for 2006 and 2007. Angelica earned four individual state titles for her shot put and discus talents in indoor and outdoor track, as well as an individual runner up State Championship placement in 2006. Angelica played a role in five team State Championships and one runner up State Championship, including the indoor and outdoor track and field State Championship titles of 2006, a runner up volleyball State Championship in 2006, the indoor track and field State Championship of 2007, outdoor track and field State Championship of 2007, and the volleyball State Championship in 2007. She served as Junior Class President, was involved in chorus, SGA, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She went on to accept a track and field scholarship from The University of Alabama where she was an SEC champion, team captain, All-SEC 1st team, SEC Honor Roll, Dean’s List, and an SEC Championship Silver and Bronze medalist. Angelica earned a degree in telecommunication and film, minoring in mass communications. She has furthered her education at the University of South Alabama, earning her Master of Arts in communications. Angelica currently resides in Mobile and is self-employed as a communications consultant and entrepreneur.

Jory Kennedy Johnson

Jory participated in both basketball and football while he was at St. Paul’s. He served as team captain in football and received the Crichton Optimist Club Scholar Athlete Award in 2006 and was named 5A All-County and All-Academic in basketball for 2006 and 2007. While Jory excelled on the court and the field, he also maintained an impressive GPA and was a leader in the classroom, being inducted into the National Honor Society. Jory went on to play football at the University of Connecticut, where he continued to be recognized for his leadership and athletic abilities. He started in 28 of the 46 collegiate football games that he played. During his football career at UConn, he served as a team captain, was named Defensive Player of the Week, and received the Scholar Athlete Award in 2012. He was also named Big East All-Academic from 2010 through 2012. He went on to play in the Indoor Football League for the 2014 and 2015 seasons. During his professional career, he started in 24 of the 26 games he played and received honorable mention for player of the week three times consecutively in 2014. Jory now resides in Mobile working in sales.

Omar Montrez Johnson

Omar has always been an avid athlete with a strong drive to win. He participated in varsity football, as well as varsity indoor and outdoor track for the duration of his high school athletic career. He received recognition as an Optimist Club Player of the Week, as well as Honorable Mention for All-Region. In 2004, Omar began his track career with St. Paul’s as a runner-up at state in both indoor and outdoor track. Later in his career, Omar was a part of multiple State Championships with both of those teams. In 2007, he placed as an individual runner-up in the State Championship 4x400 competition. Omar was also involved in Key Club, and mens chorus. He went on to Samford University to play football and earn a degree in political science. While at Samford, Omar was recognized for his excellence on the field as a defensive captain and a team captain in 2011. Omar was involved in Mixed Martial Arts where he also found success. Omar is currently a professional MMA fighter ranked #18 lightweight in North America, titled Atlas Fights Lightweight Champion, FFI Lightweight Champion, and Strike Hand Welterweight Champ. He resides in Birmingham with his wife Kayla and their two year old Kyler.

Kalin James Krause

Kalin participated in multiple sports at St. Paul’s and was consistently recognized for his strength, commitment, and leadership. He was part of the wrestling team in 2002 and was an asset to the football team for the duration of his high school career. He played a role in the runner-up state championship team for indoor track in 2006, and won a state championship in outdoor track that same year. Kalin received numerous accolades including, but not limited to, being a part of the 5500 lb club, being recognized as The Optimist Club’s Player of The Week, and Defensive Player of The Year for 2006. Kalin went on to utilize his skills on and off the field at the United States Naval Academy, playing football for one year, earning a degree in history, and currently serving as a lieutenant in the United States Navy. He and his wife, Kelly, reside in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Kalin plans to begin graduate school in 2018 at Penn State to earn a degree in engineering management.

William Morrow Latta

William participated in wrestling, cross-country, indoor track, and soccer while at St. Paul’s. He was named All-County and All-State for both soccer and cross-country. Bringing a consistent determination and competitive spirit to everything he did, William also received recognition as most improved MVP for cross-country and MVP Offensive Player of the Year for Soccer. While at St. Paul’s, he was involved with Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Ultimate Frisbee Club and the Sierra Club. William earned a degree in civil engineering from Auburn University. He now resides in Mobile with his one year old son, Scotty and works as a civil engineer for Clark, Greer, Latham & Associates.

Michael Wardell Rebarchak

Michael was a dynamic part of the St. Paul’s basketball program during his high school career. He lettered in basketball from 2005 to 2007, was recognized as an Optimist Club Player of the Week, was selected to the All-Mobile County Team for 2006-2007, and was a consistent positive asset to his team and their performance. Michael excelled academically as well, earning induction into the National Honor Society. Michael went on to letter in basketball at Birmingham-Southern College from 2007-2009, where he earned a degree in accounting. He and his wife, Brooke, reside in Birmingham.

Allison Kneip Stanford

During high school, Allison exceeded in her cross country and indoor and outdoor track career. She received countless honors, including but not limited to: ten All-County selections, four All-Metro selections, nine All-State Awards, and the 2007 Mitchell Award for Female Athlete of the Year. She is an eight-time recipient of the Optimist Club Runner of the Week award. Allison gained individual recognition as a State Champion, placing first in the 800 meter run multiple times in both indoor and outdoor, 1st in the 3200 meter relay all four years, 1st in the 1600 meter relay in 2005 and 2006, as well as several 2nd place finishes in those same events. Allison was a valuable part of the cross-country teams’ State Championship victories from 2002 to 2006, a runner-up indoor track team placement in 2005, the 5A State Championship indoor track team win for 2006 and 2007, as well as a track and field State Championship in 2006 and 2007. Allison maintained Headmaster’s List grades for all of her years at St. Paul’s. She served as her Freshman Class Vice President, Sophomore Class President, Junior Class Vice President, National Honor Society President, and was a member of the Spanish National Honor Society, St. Paul’s Strings Program, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Junior Interact and Interact clubs. She went on to accept an academic and athletic scholarship for track and field from the University of Mississippi, where she continued her dedication and success to earn induction into the M-Club for both cross-country and track, four-time SEC Academic Honor Roll and Chancellor’s Honor Roll among other honors. Allison earned a degree in biology with a minor in psychology and continued her education at The University of Alabama- Birmingham earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy. Allison and her husband Drew currently reside in Madison, Alabama, where she is a physical therapist at Johnson and Hayes Physical Therapists.

Mrs. Susanne Smith McAvoy '89 

Susanne Smith McAvoy '89 is the executive vice president of marketing, creative, and communications for Crown Media Family Networks, home of Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, which is owned and operated by Hallmark Cards, Inc. Based in New York, McAvoy reports to Bill Abbott, president and chief executive officer. 

McAvoy's oversight includes every facet of marketing and communications initiatives and social media strategies for both networks. She also leads the company's creative services team and was responsible for spearheading the rebrand of Hallmark Channel in 2012 to include a new look and tagline, "The Heart of TV", as well as the 2014 brand transition of Hallmark Movie Channel to become Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

In 2016, McAvoy was named one of Advertising Age's Women to Watch as well as Marketer of the Year by Cablefax. In addition, she was included on the 2016 Cablefax 100 List as a part of "Crown's Dream Team". McAvoy was also honored by Multichannel News as a 2015 "Woman to Watch" and has been named as one of Cablefax's "Most Powerful Women in Cable" for four consecutive years (2012-2015). In addition, she was designated to Multichannel News' "40 Under 40" list in 2011. Her many industry accolades include PromaxlBDA Awards, CTAM Mark Awards, the Ad Council Silver Bell Award, a Cable Advertising Bureau Award, and two ACC (Association of Cable Communicators) Beacon Awards.

Currently, McAvoy is serving her fourth year as director-at-large on the national board for Women in Cable Telecommunications (WICT). Recently, McAvoy was director-at-large for the New York WICT board and served 8 years as a board member for the New York Chapter. She joined the board as the membership chair, and served a two-year term as chapter president, followed by a two-year stint as immediate past president. McAvoy is also an active member of PromaxlBDA.

McAvoy began her tenure with Crown Media Family Networks in 2007 as vice president of ad sales marketing. Previously, McAvoy has held positions at Bravo, Comcast, Oxygen Media and MTV. McAvoy began her career with Turner International in Hong Kong.

She graduated cum laude from Vanderbilt University with a bachelor's degree in human development. She is also a Betsy Magness Leadership Institute graduate, Class XXIV. McAvoy resides with her husband and two children in Darien, Connecticut.

Distinguished Alumna in the Arts

Mrs. Sarah Haas Otts ‘03

Sarah Hass Otts is a profound local artist whose art is sold not only in galleries in the Mobile Bay area but also in Atlanta, Dallas, and New Orleans. For as long as Sarah can remember, becoming an artist has been her clear and main objective and the ideal career choice. After graduating from college in 2007 with a BFA in painting, Sarah moved back to Mobile, AL where she began to establish herself as a working artist. As an artist, she is motivated by the Abstract Expressionist movement. With highly energetic, impulsive brush strokes, she uses fluid lines to develop a foundation from which she builds her many layers. There are no preliminary sketches, just gestural, reactive markings. A finished painting is composed of layers of texture and color that have been repeatedly eliminated and rebuilt. By scraping and washing away areas of the painting, she is able to reveal portions of its original structure and various stages along the way. Each series she develops is a focused reaction to a personal emotion and experience. In recent years, the joys and challenges of being a mother have been a heavy influence on her art. Sarah resides in Mobile with her husband Robert two children Lelia and Sonny. 

Distinguished Service Award

Mrs. Erin Burns Schwant ‘98

Erin Burns Schwant successfully established the Early Education Center (EEC) at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church which opened its doors in 2013. The EEC was founded with the goal of providing children with a safe, loving and nurturing environment where they can grow spiritually, emotionally, physically and academically. As the EEC Director, this is exactly the type of environment Erin has created.  In less than one year of operation, under Erin’s direction, the unique, cutting-edge learning environment was voted “Mobile’s Best Nursery School” and has since expanded to serve 90 families.

Before opening the EEC, Erin graduated from Rollins College with a Psychology degree that emphasized child development.  After college she obtained a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi.  Following graduate school, Erin remained in Jackson and maintained a private practice where she counselled individuals and families and provided play therapy for children.  Erin was a member of the 2014 Mobile Bay Monthly’s 40 under 40 for her commitment to the community and the EEC.  She further serves our community through her involvement with Mirror Lake Racquet Club, Adoption Rocks and St. Paul’s Church. Erin has also served on the St. Paul’s Alumni Council. Erin and her husband Troy reside in Mobile with their four sons Jack, Charlie, Sam, and Robert and baby number five on the way.

The Dr. Monte L. Moorer Foundation

The Dr. Monte L. Moorer Foundation’s mission is to provide funding to support the operations of innovative programs that improve the health and quality of life for children and citizens in the surrounding area. Throughout St. Paul’s history, the Dr. Monte L. Moorer Foundation has supported the school in various ways. By providing grants to assist in the construction of building projects and renovations, the Dr. Monte L. Moorer Foundation has assisted St. Paul’s in becoming the school it is today. Most recently, the Foundation provided a grant to fund the construction of the new Student Commons Building. The building will feature the new technology and innovation lab, a writing center, admissions office, guidance and counseling offices, community service space, the campus store and the cafeteria. Not only does the Foundation have a profound impact in the St. Paul’s community, but it supports the greater Mobile area by providing assistance to hospitals, schools, universities, colleges and numerous community organizations, making our region stronger.

Distinguished Alumnus - Dr. Colby Jubenville

Colby Jubenville, a 1990 graduate, was honored as the 2015 St. Paul’s Episcopal School Distinguished Alumnus at the third annual Athletic Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni Banquet on October 15, 2015.  Over 150 people gathered at the Country Club of Mobile to celebrate Colby and the other honorees.  Colby was honored for his career achievements and community contributions.  Colby's acceptance speech gave tribute to his coaches, his teachers and his parents for guiding him in his path in life. 

Colby B. Jubenville, Ph.D. is an accomplished author, speaker, professor, entrepreneur and inventor.  He holds an academic appointment at Middle Tennessee State University as Special Assistant to the Dean for Student Success and Strategic Partnerships and is Principal of Red Herring Innovation and Design, an agency specializing in helping people and organizations become better known, better understood for their unique value.  In 2015, Colby accepted an invitation from the Washington Times to write about self-reliance and developing the entrepreneurial mindset teaching people how to “go their own way”.  Also, in 2015 he received the Nashville Emerging Leaders Impact Award presented by the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals Nashville honoring those who have made a significant impact on Nashville’s YP demographic.  He regularly speaks on his book Zebras & Cheetahs which teaches others how to look different, run faster and stay agile in the business jungle.   In addition, Jubenville has published over 35 peer-reviewed trade articles and is the founder of The Journal of Applied Sport Management.  Also in 2015, Colby secured a $1,000,000 gift and launched The Center for Student Success and Coaching, a high-profile student success initiative focused on coaching students, enhancing professional preparation and developing soft skills.  He serves as the Director of the Center.

Colby and wife Katie live in Murfreesboro, TN and have two children, Jack and Mary Burke. 

Distinguished Alumnus in the Arts - Michael Knight

The 2015 Distinguished Alumni in the Arts was presented to Michael Knight from the Class of 1988.  Michael is the author of two novels (Divining Rod and The Typist), two collections of short stories (Dogfight and Other Stories and Goodnight, Nobody) and a book of novellas (The Holiday Season).  His most recent novel, The Typist, was selected as a Best Book of the Year for 2010 by The Huffington Post and The Kansas City Star, among others.  His fiction has appeared in magazines and literary journals such as Esquire, The New Yorker, Oxford American, Paris Review, Ploughshares, The Saturday Evening Post and The Southern Review.  In addition, his work has been included in Best American Mystery Stories and New Stories from the South: The Year’s Best.   He is the recipient of a Special Citation from the PEN/Hemingway Foundation (1999) and the Robert Penn Warren Award for fiction (2013).  Michael teaches creative writing at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville where he lives with his wife Jill and their two children Mary and Helen.

Distinguished Service Awards

This year, two alumni were the recipients of the Distinguished Service Award.  Ashley Graham Brown, from the Class of 1984, was recognized for her service to St. Paul’s and her community.  Ashley is actively involved in the community and has served on the Providence Hospital Foundation’s Festival of Flower Committee and served as Chair for two years.  She was also the Junior League of Mobile’s Christmas Jubilee Chair, the American Heart Association’s Heart Gala Chair, Mobile Ballet’s Nutcracker Ball’s Silent Auction Co-chair, and the Hurricane Katrina Relief Housing Chair at her church.  She is also actively involved at St. Paul’s.  Ashley has served as a grade level representative for many years, an Academic Boosters’ volunteer, a Teacher Appreciation volunteer, the Saints’ Night Silent Auction Co-chair for four years, and the Middle School/Upper School Parent Council Chair.  She is on the Used Uniform Committee and is serving as the Campus Store Volunteer Chair this year and is working part-time in the St. Paul's Campus Store.  Ashley is married to Dr. Chris Brown, also a graduate of the Class of 1984.  She has two children, Madelyn and Mary Stirling. 

The Distinguished Service Award was also being presented to Dr. Grant Zarzour from the Class of 2002.  Grant is currently Chief Resident at the University of South Alabama Medical School in Orthopaedics with an expected graduation date in June 2016.  Grant was the Corporate Relations Chairman for Hearts Everywhere Reaching Out (H.E.R.O.) for Children from 2003-2006.  He helped raise over $300,000 and established the largest collegiate philanthropy in the Southeast while focusing on quality of life improvement for the over 9,000 children affected by HIV/AIDS.  He participated in a four-person panel at an international conference on HIV/AIDS that included Vice-President of World Bank, Vice President of the George Soros Foundation, and Association Internationale des Étudiants en Sciences Économiques et Commerciales (AIESEC) Kenya President and planned and managed a meeting of over twenty AIESEC African presidents.  From 2008 to 2009 Grant was the chairman of the “Gumbo Chili Showdown” for the Regan Robinson Young Scholarship Fundraiser.  He managed 10 committees, recruited 42 teams, and raised $15,000 in 2008 and $30,000 in 2009.  In 2011, he was an ambassador for the Addo Institute where he planned and strategized to create trips to Cuba for cultural understanding and service.  Currently, Grant is the marketing director for the GO Kickball South Alabama which engages over 2,700 young professionals a year through athletic activities.  He is the organizer of an exploratory committee for the Mobile Chamber of Commerce Innovation PortAL.  The group aims to create a downtown incubator space to attract new business growth.  He is also Co-founder and Chair of the Executive Board of the Fuse Project, a non-profit based in South Alabama that significantly benefits specific children’s projects.  To date, Fuse Project has raised $350,000 with a goal of $1,000,000 annually by 2020.  Grant lives in Mobile with his wife Brie and son Wyatt.

Distinguished Alumnus- Michael Allen

Michael Allen, a 1991 graduate, was honored as the 2014 St. Paul’s Episcopal School Distinguished Alumnus at the second annual Athletic Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni Banquet on October 23, 2014.  Over 185 people gathered at the Country Club of Mobile to celebrate Michael and the other honorees.  Michael was honored for his achievements in his career and for his service to our country.  Michael's acceptance speech gave tribute to St. Paul's for preparing him to excel in his career and life.

Michael served in the White House for seven years in a variety of national security policy and legislative roles.  At the National Security Council, he served as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counter-proliferation Strategy from June 2007 to January 2009 under National Security Advisor Steve Hadley.  As Senior Director, he contributed to the development of the U.S. Government’s policy on counter-proliferation issues, including the Iranian, Syrian, and North Korean nuclear files; missile defense; civilian nuclear cooperation including the U.S.–India Civilian Nuclear Cooperation Agreement; U.S. exports controls; bio-defense; WMD and terrorism.  From 2011-2013, he served as the Majority Staff Director of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.  Michael was also the Intelligence Team Leader for the “Romney for President” Transition Team.  He is the author of Blinking Red: Crisis and Compromise in American Intelligence After 9/11.  

Presently, Michael is a Founder and Managing Director of Beacon Global Strategies, LLC in Washington D.C.  Michael and his wife Diana reside in Washington D.C. with their three sons, Joe, Will, and Henry. 

Distinguished Alumna in the Arts- Zoe Fishman Shacham

This year the Alumni Council introduced several new awards at the Athletic Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni Banquet.  The Distinguished Alumna in the Arts Award was presented to Zoe Fishman Shacham from the Class of 1994.

Shacham is the critically acclaimed author of Driving Lessons, Saving Ruth, and Balancing Acts as well as a writing instructor and coach.  She worked in the New York publishing industry for years in the Random House Editorial Department, the Simon & Schuster Rights Department, and later as an agent for two boutique literary firms. 

In Zoe's speech, she recognized the impact St. Paul's and in particular her English teachers had on shaping her life as an author.  In Zoe's words, " Thank you so much to St. Paul’s for this lovely dinner and surreal honor.  To be recognized twenty years after graduating by the very school at which my writing voice was nurtured is a gift for which I am very grateful.

I also have to thank my parents, Ethan and Sue Fishman, without whose encouragement, support and careful planning I would not be here tonight. As a relatively new parent myself, I am now, more so than ever, infinitely appreciative of the sacrifices they made for my education and the values they worked so hard to instill in me.

I came to St. Paul’s late, in my junior year of high school, and was immediately impressed and intimidated by its rigorous academic standards. The teachers were smart and sharp, and the way in which they imparted their knowledge made me want to be a better student.  English had always been my strong suit, and both of my English teachers, Mrs. Strachan and Mr. Courie further cemented my interest and passion. Both of them provided me with invaluable insight into the works of some of the greatest authors and poets of our time, and taught me how to thoughtfully critique their writing; a skill that, as an English major in college, proved incredibly useful.  Furthermore and perhaps most importantly in regard to this award, Mrs. Strachan motivated me to submit a short story to The Friends of the Mobile Public Library contest. To my great surprise, I won. Although I had always loved to write, I had never before been publicly recognized for it. Her encouragement made a huge impact on my life, and gave me the confidence needed to plant the seeds of my dream  - to one day become a published novelist. After many stops and starts, that dream has come true, and for the role she and St. Paul’s played in its realization, I am truly thankful."

Zoe resides in Atlanta with her husband, Ronen, and son, Ari.  She is currently at work on her next novel which will be published in 2016.

2014 - Distinguished Service Awards

The J. L. Bedsole Foundation is one of the recipients of the 2014 Distinguished Service Award.  The Foundation ’s mission is to ensure the continuing health, welfare and prosperity of the citizens of Southwest Alabama by providing greater post-secondary educational opportunities for our worthy youth and by supporting expanded civic, cultural, artistic and economic development opportunities for all citizens of our area.

Throughout St. Paul’s history, the J. L. Bedsole Foundation has supported the school in various ways.  By providing grants to assist in the construction of building projects and renovations, the J.L. Bedsole Foundation has assisted St. Paul’s in becoming the school it is today.  Most recently, the Foundation provided a grant to fund the Lindamood-Bell® Reading program.  The Lindamood-Bell® instructional programs strengthen reading, comprehension, and math skills by developing the sensory-cognitive functions that form the foundations of learning.  Not only does the Foundation have a profound impact in the St. Paul’s community, but it supports five counties of Southwest Alabama by providing assistance to hospitals, schools, universities, colleges and numerous community organizations, making our region stronger.

Louise Glover Houston, a 1976 St. Paul’s alumna, is also the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.   She is actively involved in the community and most recently served as the Chairman of the Alumni and Parent Tennis Tournament raising over $5,700 for the St. Paul’s Girl’s and Boy’s Tennis Teams in addition to supporting alumni activities.   Houston serves on the Ethelyn Hays Foundation Board which is partnered with Mitchell Cancer Institute.  She is currently a member on the American Cancer Society Board of Trustees, and was the Woman of the Year for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in 2012.  Houston also volunteers with the Realtor Community Relations Committee.  Houston has been a realtor for 24 years and is currently a Sales Associate with LLB&B Real Estate.   Louise and husband Robert have two daughters, Hill Houston Aeiker and Frances Houston Wilkinson, both graduates of St. Paul’s.  Louise is a member at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.  Her hobbies include tennis, golf, sewing, painting and caring for her granddaughter, Lila Aeiker.

Mr. Alan Franco

Mr. Alan I. Franco ’80 was honored at the annual Alumni Luncheon as the St. Paul’s Episcopal School Distinguished Alumnus on April 10, 2013. The Culinary Club under the direction of Elizabeth Galanos Gregory ’99 catered the event where Alan’s former classmates and teachers, the St. Paul’s Alumni Council, Board of Trustees and friends celebrated Alan’s achievements. 

Alan continues to support St. Paul’s with special interest in the Community Service Program where he was instrumental in creating the Rutledge Fellows of Philanthropy, a unique and special group of students who serve as the ambassadors for community service and philanthropic endeavors school-wide. The group was named in recognition of former headmaster Bob Rutledge who spearheaded the creation of the Community Service program.

Alan addressed the group with a heartfelt speech alluding to his years at St. Paul’s, Bob and Martha Rutledge, Mrs. Marsh and Roger Miller. He thanked his mother Reita, wife Diane, Martha Rutledge, Leslie Lerner, the faculty and staff at St. Paul’s, and his friends from the Class of 1980. “I never dreamed the Rutledge Fellows would become such an integral part of the life of St. Paul’s. But then again, I am not surprised that it has. For this School, in talking about educating the complete person, realizes that it isn’t just about what takes place in the classroom, it is the total experience that makes the young men and women who walk through these doors.” 

Mr. Tom Davis, former president and CEO of the Community Foundation of South Alabama and husband to St. Paul’s Lower School Director Anne Davis, was the guest speaker at the luncheon and expressed how honored he was to be a part of the Foundation to award a grant to St. Paul’s to start the Community Service program 12 years ago. He is proud of how St. Paul’s students and teachers change the lives of others.

The luncheon was hosted by the Alumni Council, the Rutledge Fellows of Philanthropy and the Culinary Club.

About Alan I. Franco

Alan is co-Chairman of Goldring Family Interests in New Orleans, which oversees interests in Real Estate, Beer Distribution, Distilled Spirits manufacturing, and other investments.

Born in Atlanta in 1962, Alan spent his formative years in Jacksonville Florida, San Juan Puerto Rico and Mobile Alabama.  He is a graduate of St. Paul’s Episcopal School where he attended from 1974–1980, and is a graduate of the University of Alabama.  

Moving to New Orleans in 1997, Alan has been active in numerous community and civic activities. He currently serves as President of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans.  Alan has served on numerous community boards, including AIPAC, The Jewish Community Center of New Orleans and the National World War II museum.  Alan also co-chaired Jewish Leadership Forum, a series of programs that dealt with next generation philanthropy in 2005-2006 and 2010.

Alan is married to Diane, and is the proud father of Eli, age 4.

Dr. Chris Park

Dr. Christopher A. Park, a 1993 graduate, was honored as the 2013 St. Paul’s Episcopal School Distinguished Alumnus at the inaugural Hall of Fame Banquet on September 26, 2013.  The banquet was held at the Country Club of Mobile where Chris’ family, former classmates and teachers, the St. Paul’s Alumni Council, Board of Trustees and friends celebrated his achievements.

Chris is a Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Mobile.  He is the owner/president of Mobile Plastic Reconstructive Surgery and Dermatology, The Park Clinic for Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery, and the Medspa at the Park. He continues to support St. Paul’s Episcopal School in many capacities and was instrumental in the development of the recently dedicated Robert H. Rutledge Memorial Athletic Complex.

Chris addressed the group with a heartfelt speech describing his years at St. Paul’s and his special relationship with Bob Rutledge.  When trying to decide where to live after medical school, Chris said, “Obviously my kind family and my wonderful friends as well as my now fulfilled hopes of a sweet and talented staff, all of whom are sitting here tonight, ran through my head as we contemplated the options of where to live.  But in my head, memories of Mobile are best characterized as a warm and happy glow, that joy and comfort is very strongly rooted in the Experience that was St. Paul's for me.  St Paul’s is Mobile to me.  I loved St. Paul's then and I love St. Paul's now.” 

When talking about being honored for his work on the Bob Rutledge Memorial Arch, Chris said, “I know I'm also being recognized for my contributions to the Rutledge Memorial.  However, I can only say that that was a team effort and easy work to perform.  As great as what we have done is, I still will always think that even more should be done in recognition & honor from St. Paul’s and its alumni for what Bob Rutledge built.  In terms of school character, morale, leadership, and heart.  We and St. Paul’s would not be what we are today without him.” 

About Dr. Christopher A. Park

Chris was born in Wichita Falls, TX but moved to Mobile as an infant.  After graduating from St. Paul’s (1980-1993), he completed his undergraduate education at the University of Virginia as an Interdisciplinary Echols Scholar.  He returned to Alabama for medical school at The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s School of Medicine. Chris then trained as a resident and Chief Resident at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in all aspects of Plastic Surgery including Reconstructive Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery with additional traveling fellowships in breast reconstructive surgery, facial cosmetic surgery, and body contouring.  Chris then returned to Wake Forest University School of Medicine and served as faculty, educating plastic surgery residents and performing cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery during which time he expanded the comprehensive reconstruction program to include the latest options for breast reconstruction.

Chris’s practice of plastic surgery is multifaceted including the full breadth of cosmetic surgery, nonsurgical aesthetic services, and the reconstruction of defects due to cancer, trauma, and degeneration.   While he does enjoy the general cosmetic surgery components of plastic surgery, he spends much of his time and achieves great personal satisfaction with his extensive work in helping many through difficult times by reconstructing patients to normal form, especially those patients afflicted with breast cancer, skin cancer, congenital deformities, and traumatic/burn defects.
 

Chris and his wife Elizabeth have lived in Mobile since 2009.  Their children, Ashley and Alden both proudly attend St. Paul’s.

On April 25, 2012, Dr. Sidney Ball Brevard '79 was selected as the Distinguished Alumnus for the year.  Sid Brevard was raised in Mobile and graduated from St. Paul’s in 1979. He was the senior class president and was on the football and wrestling teams, and participated in numerous extracurricular activities, from being a charter member of Mu Alpha Theta Math Honorary to the Senior Class Play. He attended Birmingham-Southern College and graduated cum laude in 1983, and was commissioned an officer in the United States Air Force. He returned to the University of South Alabama College of Medicine and graduated in 1987. Sid began his surgical training at Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. He completed his residency in general surgery at Louisiana State University in Shreveport in 1992. 

From 1992 until 1999, Sid was assigned to military bases in Portugal, Germany, and Florida. During this time, he was deployed to Africa with United Nations troops in response to the genocide in Rwanda, cared for troops injured in the “Black Hawk Down” situation, and treated victims from the ethnic war in the Balkans. In 1999, Sid became a flight surgeon with the Air Force Special Operations Command. In 2001, he was appointed the Group Surgeon for the 353rd Special Operations Group. During his 4 years in special operations, he was deployed across the world in the Global War on Terrorism. This included deployments in Afghanistan, Oman, the Philippines, the African Coast, Korea, India, the Middle East and other locations. In 2002, he was named the Special Operation’s and the U.S. Air Force Global Health Officer of the Year. In 2003, Sid assumed command of the 15th Medical Operation Squadron and became the Chief Operating Officer of a clinic providing health care to 10,000 military personnel and their families at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. 

Sid returned to his surgical background in July of 2005 and started a fellowship in trauma surgery and critical care at Charity Hospital in New Orleans. Just two months later, Hurricane Katrina struck and Dr. Brevard and his wife, Jennifer, an Air Force Reserve Nurse, spent the next five days in Charity Hospital taking care of patients with no electricity, no water, no toilets, and limited supplies of food and medicine, an experience that was chronicled by another St. Paul’s alumnus, Eddie Curran, in an article in the Mobile Press Register.

The entire St. Paul’s family thanks Dr. Brevard for his service to our country and setting the greatest example for our students of the difference that one person can make in our world.

Sid’s family has a long history with the School; his sister Adair was in the first graduating class of St. Paul's Episcopal School in 1974, and his sister Anne is an alumni and former intermediate school teacher. Sid’s mother, Liz was also a substitute teacher here for many years. 

In 2010, Sid and Jennifer chose the Mobile area to settle in and raise their children, Brandon and Meena, who are now 5 years old. Sid and Jennifer have been married for 14 years. He joined the surgery department at the University of South Alabama Medical Center as an Associate Professor. His current duties involve teaching medical students, training surgical residents, and providing trauma care for the citizens of the Gulf Coast. He was recognized by the graduating medical students with the “Scarlet Sash Award” which recognizes the attending physicians who had the most meaningful input into the student’s education. 

After 27 years in the military, Sid retired as a full colonel in 2010. His retirement ceremony, on May 27, was also the retirement ceremony for his wife Jennifer, a highly decorated Lt. Col. in the Air Force. During his time in the military, he was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, six Meritorious Service Medals, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Commendation medal, and several more. Sid was also part of a surgical team that responded to the earthquake in Haiti. 

After completing his fellowship, Sid was appointed the director of the Air Force Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills. His program was responsible for preparing Air Force medical personnel to take care of casualties in war zones. In addition, he trained civilian surgeons to be trauma qualified and was selected the Attending Trauma Surgeon of the Year in 2009. While at the center, he deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan, and was the Chief of Trauma for all US troops in Afghanistan in 2008. Under his watch, 99% of troops injured in combat survived their injuries, the highest percentage in the history of warfare.

2011 - Robbie Baker

In 2011 the Distinguished Alumnus Award was presented to G. Robert “Robbie” Baker, Jr. ’83 at the 6th Annual Alumni Luncheon May 5, 2011.  Robbie is South Alabama region president and senior vice president for Whitney National Bank. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Rhodes College where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and the recipient of the National Football Foundation Scholar Athlete Award, among others. He earned a master of business administration degree from Tulane University in 1994. Robbie received Whitney’s Golden Clock Award for Management Excellence in 2001. He is active with the United Way of Southwest Alabama, the Rotary Club of Mobile Sunrise, Mobile Arts and Sports Association and the Mobile Touchdown Club. Robbie is currently chairman of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce, and is a member of the Chamber’s Board of Advisors. He is the treasurer of Vestry at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and serves on the St. Paul’s Finance Committee of the Board of Trustees.  Robbie is married to Melissa Hayes Baker, former Lady Saints Basketball Coach and current Lady Saints Tennis Coach, and is the proud father of Ellie (Class of 2021) and Hayes (Class of 2025).

Kathy Miller

The first St. Paul’s Episcopal School Distinguished Alumni Award recipient was M. Kathleen “Kathy” Miller ‘74.  The Valedictorian of the first graduating class, Kathy has been St. Paul’s greatest advocate. Her dedication, love and affection for our school are without compare.  After graduating from St. Paul’s in 1974, she graduated from Newcomb College of Tulane University in 1978 and the Tulane University School of Law, cum laude, in 1980. She began her practice with the Armbrecht Jackson law firm in 1980 and is the managing partner there now. Her professional affiliations include the Alabama State Bar Association, American Bar Association, Mobile Bar Association (President 2007), Alabama Defense Lawyers Association, Maritime Law Association of the United States, Southeastern Admiralty Law Institute and the Paul W. Brock Inn of Court (Past President).  Her dedication to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is best evidenced by her service as Senior Warden, Secretary and member of the Vestry, and she has served as the Chancellor for the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast.  She serves on the Board of the Mobile Bar Foundation, was the first female President of the Rotary Club of Mobile, and is a Sustaining Member of the Junior League of Mobile. She has served on the Board of Trustees of St. Paul’s since 1981 and has served two terms as the Board Chair. Her desire to see the school progress, to get better in every way, has challenged all of us to make St. Paul’s what it is today.  Kathy is married to Charlie Fleming and they have two daughters Maggie (Class of 2010) and Mary Bryant (Class of 2013).