2026
ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL
The Delphian 2026
01
Letter from the Head of School
02
Dive into the Archive
Our Mission Annunciation Orthodox School, having grown from a ministry of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, celebrates the diverse and individual qualities of all children and their families.
03
Faculty & Staff Years of Service
04
AOS Retirees
07
Understanding the Meaning of Name Day at AOS
AOS provides a superior education in a secure and stimulating Christian environment which encourages the individual child to achieve academic, spiritual, emotional, social and physical excellence, and to become a responsible member of our society.
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08 A Year in Review: Special Events 10
The AOS Volunteer Service Award
12
Congratulations, Class of 2026!
14
Parting Thoughts
16
A Peek Into the Future
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The Silver Pillar Award: Sabrina Espinoza The Triantafilou Award: Julia Crowder
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Alumni Spotlight: Rick Clark ’13
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Teacher Feature: A Wonderful Adventure
24
Class of 2022 College Matriculation
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Alumni Class Notes
29
Save the Date
LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL Dear AOS Community, This year, our community truly lived our annual priorities of grace and gratitude. Although construction limited parts of our campus, it never diminished our school spirit. In many ways, this season of transition deepened our appreciation for every corner of AOS and every member of our community. The sounds of construction became part of the rhythm of the school day and a daily reminder that we are building something meaningful together. Throughout the year, students embraced new routines, teachers creatively transformed every available space into places of learning, and parents navigated changing logistics with extraordinary patience and support. Thanks to the generosity of our beloved Cathedral, students crossed the street for PE classes and treasured AOS traditions such as the Olympics opening ceremony. I remain deeply grateful to our entire community for the grace, flexibility, and positivity everyone demonstrated every day. One of my favorite examples of gratitude came from several Jones Center students, who created pictures and letters for the construction workers helping build the future of AOS. As our new arts and athletics buildings rose from the ground, these students took time to recognize the many people whose hard work is shaping these exciting new spaces.
Their thoughtful gestures reminded all of us that gratitude matters most when we express it directly and sincerely, especially for the blessings taking shape right here on our campus. Together, we have proven that buildings may house our mission, but people give it life. These new spaces will create extraordinary opportunities for learning and growth, but the character, kindness, and spirit of the people within them will always remain the true foundation of AOS. As you will see on the back cover of this issue, construction continues to move quickly, and our new facilities are taking shape before our eyes. If progress continues as expected, students will return from Christmas break to begin 2027 in a beautiful new building filled with new opportunities. We remain deeply grateful to every individual, past and present, whose generosity, vision, and commitment continue to shape the bright future of AOS.
Dr. Sam Fragomeni Head of School
From the Editor A new era of growth is just around the corner for AOS, and there’s no better time to reflect on the roots that have kept our community grounded for over 55 years. This issue features a cover from our Name Day celebration, a new, and delightfully nostalgic, section titled “Dive into the Archive,” and an article by Fr. Efstratios on the importance of The Annunciation. These features and more highlight what it truly means to uphold tradition and carry the early years in our hearts. AOS YES!
Penny Angelo Communications & Content Manager
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SCIENCE CLASS 1983 Left to right, back row
Cynthia Melarelis, Fiona Philis, Lee Ann Willett, Scott Zivley, Maria Gorham, Thalia Christy, Vicky Tsokos, Dimitri Fetokakis Left to right, front
Charlie Dixie, Aki Exezides, Antonio Ramos, Tina Dacus, Paxton German, Nicky Servos, Brandon Roberts Do you have a great photo from the early years of AOS? Send it to communications@aoshouston.org for a chance to be featured in the next issue!
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FACULTY & STAFF YEARS OF SERVICE 5 Years
Penny Angelo Deb Figueroa-Cruz Amanda Jocz Rebecca Morgan Nancy Kate Prescott Justine Simmons Alyssa Smith
10 Years
Karen Craft Tricia Dutherage Meredith Wise
15 Years
Amy Ailor Bianca Condon
20 Years
Christian Begg Rhonda Fraizer-Brooks Cindy Schumacher Dale Shelton
30 Years
Susan Grygiel Connie Koinis Amy Williams
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AOS RETIREES With a collective 39 years of dedication to our school, this group has left a lasting impact on AOS. From the front desk to the library, we honor their commitment to our mission and wish them well on their next chapter! To read the full interviews, visit aoshouston.org/retirees.
CINDY SCHUMACHER
20 Years
KAREN CRAFT
10 Years
AMY SABLATURA
9 Years
Tell us the story of how you arrived at AOS. CS Well, I always say, I “fell across the street and landed at AOS.” I was a full-time student at the
University of St. Thomas late in life, and I needed extra income because my work-study job was not sufficient. My friends at the Registrar’s Office, where I worked, suggested I go to AOS and see if they needed subs. The day I inquired, I met Julia Crowder at the front desk, who sent me to Debbie Elam’s office inside the Head of School’s office. She signed me up, and the rest is history.
KC I have known Susan Grygiel for a very long time, and when I was pregnant with my first child, she told me I needed to see AOS. When I saw the school, I knew we had to come here. Later on, when I decided to go back to work, I began working at the lower school front desk, and when Ms. Crowder retired, I filled in at the middle school desk. AS My daughter started PK here in 2010. We chose AOS for our daughter, Ella, because of the
concept of hearts and minds. When we visited, we felt that motto played out in the people we met. It became a foundation for our child’s growth. To this day, her very best friend is a classmate she met at AOS. I was very involved as a parent, so when the time was right, becoming an employee seemed to be a good next step for me. I enjoyed the people who became my friends and the connections I made.
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What will you miss most about AOS? CS I will miss all the little moments — the “Hi, Miss Schumacher” from a passing student, the
spirited book chats I have with students and faculty at my desk, the shared “good morning” greetings at the start of the day . . . all the little things that make my day great. This I will miss.
KC I will miss the faculty, staff, and kids. I have made many friendships here. AS I will miss the library. I started volunteering at the library weekly in 2013 as part of the
Library Guild, was selected as the Book Fair co-chair in 2017, and became the cataloger in 2019. I have touched every book in both libraries multiple times.
How do you plan to spend those first few months of retirement? CS I will be moving to Virginia, outside of Washington, D.C. to be close to my oldest daughter and
her family. Then, I set off on a big adventure aboard a cruise ship with a friend of 40 years around the British Isles.
KC Retirement will be filled with a lot of travel with my fiancé, and I will be working out and playing pickleball at the gym. Eventually, we also plan to move to the Hill Country. AS We have plans to travel to Japan and Peru. We recently purchased a house in Utah, so I will
spend time there, too.My big project will be to purge my house of excess. Not relaxing, but I will feel accomplished after this project is done.
Share a special AOS moment with us! CS One time, when I was the Lower School librarian, and I was with the Middle School librarian,
we returned our dishes to Mr. Sunny in the cafeteria at the same time with our usual “thank you.” He did a major double-take — “but I thought you were . . .” Turns out not only did our last names both start with “Sch,” we could pass for sisters! Twenty years later, when I return my lunch items, Mr. Sunny and I share a big smile.
KC Both of my children were torchbearers and extinguishers for the Olympics. I was very proud of them! AS The Class of 2020 parade during COVID was so special in honoring the eighth graders. I got to experience this as a mom, but seeing my coworkers and her teachers work so hard to give something special to this class will stick with me.
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UNDERSTANDING THE MEANING OF NAME DAY AT AOS REV. FR. EFSTRATIOS J. MAGOULIAS
Dean of the Cathedral
If there is any reason for mankind to rejoice and celebrate and sing with a cheerful heart; if there is any moment to consider that there is something amazing and brilliant that makes one feel he is a part of something special; it is the great feast day of the Annunciation of the Theotokos. The Annunciation of the Theotokos refers to the biblical event in which God sent His Archangel Gabriel to announce to the Virgin Mary that she would carry and bear the Christ, the Messiah, the Son of God, our Lord and Savior, Jesus, as recorded in the Gospel according to St. Luke the Evangelist (1:26-38). The Annunciation of the Theotokos is a Great Feast day of the Lord, as well as a Feast day dedicated to the Mother of God. The moment that the Virgin Mary accepts to do God’s Will, she conceives by Grace the Holy Spirit. At that moment, the Son of God, Jesus Christ, begins His life in her womb. It is from this moment that God’s divine plan for our salvation is enacted. By Mary accepting to be, “The handmaiden of the Lord,” with the response, “Let it be to me according to your word,” she assumes the role as the Mother of God, and through her, our Savior and salvation comes into the world. This is the beginning of the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham that He would send the Messiah and Redeemer to save mankind. This is the beginning of our liberation from sin and death. We have many reasons to celebrate on this day. We celebrate this great feast and the beginning of our salvation. We also commemorate, in conjunction with the Annunciation, the beginning of the Greek war for independence from the Ottoman-Turks. After 400 years of
slavery, the Greek people proudly proclaimed that they would no longer be slaves to their oppressors. For those who are the descendants of an ethnic race and Church without comparison, we believe that only the struggles which are undertaken for Christ, for the holy Faith and for the freedom of one’s homeland, eventually prevail. To the Christian Orthodox Greeks, this redemption, this liberation, was achieved through the conscientious manifestation of the true meaning of freedom and the resolute commitment to fight under the protective presence of God until it was achieved! This Feast, the patron and name of our Cathedral and School, is thus when we all celebrate, as we all carry this name! With both spiritual and political freedom, we thank God for our redemption from a life of slavery to one of freedom. Let our motto and prayer always be “In God we trust” and the hymn “The Invincible Champion” (Ti Ypermacho), which we sing in our Chapel Service during this season, and our life be one of that freedom which was sanctified by Christ. It is with fervent prayer that we beseech the Theotokos, the Mother of God, to always intercede with her Son and our God so that our faith may direct us from victory to victory and from glory to glory! To this day, we as the children of God, are called to be participants in this Annunciation of our Faith! We are called to announce and to share, Agape — complete, sacrificial, Christ-like love to all the world.
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2025-2026: A Year in Review
SPECIAL EVENTS
Back-to-School Breakfast Book Fair & Spaghetti Dinner Father Son Night Out Daddy Daughter Night Out Golf Tournament Tsiknopempti Gala Eikon Art Show Grandparents & Special Friends Days AOS Olympics
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THE AOS VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD By Kelley Elliott For many years, students at AOS and across the country had the opportunity to be recognized for their volunteer efforts through the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, a national program that celebrated individuals who dedicated their time and talents to serving others. When the program was paused at the federal level, we saw this as an opportunity to make it our own. To ensure that our students’ commitment to service continued to be celebrated, AOS created the AOS Volunteer Service Award, an annual recognition program designed to honor students who demonstrate outstanding dedication to serving others. The AOS Volunteer Service Award recognizes the positive impact students make within the AOS community and the greater Houston community through volunteerism, leadership, and acts of kindness. Open to students in Kindergarten through eighth grade, the AOS Volunteer Service Award recognizes different levels of achievement based on the number of verified volunteer hours completed during the award year. Students are encouraged not only to record their hours but also to reflect on their experiences and the impact of their service. In doing so, they gain valuable lessons in responsibility, empathy, and leadership. What makes this award especially meaningful is that it reflects the heart of our school’s mission. While volunteer hours can be 10 ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL
counted, the true value of service extends far beyond a number. Each hour represents a student who chose to help someone else, solve a problem, or contribute to a cause greater than themselves. The success of the program was evident this year as twenty-seven AOS students earned the AOS Volunteer Service Award. Together, these students contributed more than 1,700 hours of volunteer service to our community, supporting causes and organizations that made a meaningful difference in the lives of others. This year also marked a special milestone for the program. For the first time, six lower school students earned the award, demonstrating that a commitment to helping others can begin at any age. Their achievement serves as an inspiration to fellow students and highlights the growing culture of service throughout the AOS community. As the AOS Volunteer Service Award continues to grow, it serves as a reminder that the spirit of volunteerism remains strong within our school. The combined efforts of this year’s recipients show that even small acts of kindness can create a lasting impact when multiplied across a community. By recognizing these students and their accomplishments, we hope to inspire future generations to lead with compassion, generosity, and a commitment to serving others.
For more information on how your child can participate, please contact Kelley Elliott.
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Congratulations to the
CLASS OF 2026!
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Episcopal High School 19 Students
Strake Jesuit College Prepatory 15 Students
St. Thomas High School 3 Students
Denver South High School 1 Student
St. John’s School 10 Students
The Kinkaid School 10 Students
St. Agnes Academy 9 Students
Phillips Academy 1 Student
St. Stephen’s Episcopal 1 Student
The Bishop’s School 1 Student
Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart 4 Students
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PARTING THOUGHTS My first memory of the class of 2026 is very clear. It is actually from when you were still in fourth grade. At the Intro to Middle School preview event, you made such an impression on me. We had just hired Mrs. Rusk to be the new Assistant Head of Middle School, so she was there. As fourth graders, not yet quite fifth graders, some of you were sitting on the floor being a bit wiggly and chatty. Mrs. Rusk looked at y’all and raised one eyebrow. Immediately, every single one of you sat up straight, got laser-focused, quiet, and ready to listen. I thought, “Wow! This group of kids is amazing and so ready to learn!” The impression has only deepened and strengthened since then! You are amazing and so eager to learn new things! You are going to conquer high school just like you have repeatedly impressed us over the last four years. You are consistently kind, you are curious, and you demonstrate agape. Be brave, stay kind, stay curious, and hold on to hope. You have Philotimo, and I know you will continue to act with kindness, respect, gratitude, and integrity.
Heather Haas
Head of Middle School
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I cannot imagine who I would be without AOS, and without all the things I have learned since joining this community. From the very first day, I felt like I had a place here. Like I belonged. Whether it was sailing on the Potomac River in Washington D.C., competing in Olympics, or simply just being at school on an ordinary day, we have made memories that will last forever. And I wish we could experience them again. But even though we cannot go back and relive our time at this school, we can do something even better. We can take the values AOS has taught us—kindness, respect, gratitude, and integrity– and use them wherever we may go. If we do, we will still carry a piece of this school with us, into high school and beyond. Transitions aren’t always easy, and finding your footing can feel difficult. But no matter what happens, just know that you will find your rhythm, find your friends, and thrive, no matter where you are. It’s all part of God’s plan. He brought us together at AOS, and he will be with us as we move on to high school.
Zareena ’26
This year, we had many lasts: our last Greek Festival, our last Book Fair and Spaghetti Dinner, our last class trip, and–everyone’s favorite day of the year–our last Olympics. But to me, the most important memories are all the “in betweens” that made my time at AOS so special: Holding my popsicle sticks while running Lap Day with Coach Carr, then turning them in to see if I had enough to earn one of her coveted Lap Day charms. Standing in darkness as we closed the Lower School Christmas program by singing “Silent Night” in Greek, the candles in our hands casting a warm glow across the entire cathedral. Hearing the sound of the red Easter eggs cracking in the cafeteria, and hearing everyone say “Christos Anesti!” and “Alithos Anesti!” Holding my Chapel Buddy’s hand, as we walked across the street each Thursday for chapel, smelling the aroma of the incense as we walked into the Cathedral. I will always cherish these feelings and memories and know that although some of the memories may fade, these will stay with me forever.
Jack ’26
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Class of 2026
A PEEK INTO THE FUTURE
“After graduating college, I’ll try to get a job at NASA, or at least become an intern. In my free time, I’ll write books and explore the world with my family.” Emily
“Twelve years from now, I see myself going to college and practicing law while keeping all the lessons AOS has taught me in just three years always close to my heart.” Caroline
“I see myself as an orthopedic doctor or surgeon who also played field hockey during my time in college and high school. I want to be surrounded by all of my friends, and I just hope that life will lead me in the right direction.” Sloane
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“I will graduate from college and be employed in tech or science industries, or maybe start a business of some sort.” PK
“I see myself getting my master’s degree at the University of Notre Dame, obviously.” Zach
“I will probably be trying to compete in national meets or completing more college for history, and maybe becoming a history teacher or professor.” Bryce
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THE SILVER PILLAR AWARD Each year, the Silver Pillar Award is given to an outstanding AOS volunteer. First awarded in 1996 to the founders of the school, Father Nick Triantafilou, his wife Presvytera Diane, and to the founding Head of School Katherine Veletsos, The Silver Pillar Award for Outstanding Service is Annunciation Orthodox School’s top volunteer honor.
Sabrina Espinoza 2026 Recipient For over 20 years, Sabrina has been a constant thread in the fabric of AOS. A proud mom to Brianna ‘17, Sophia ‘19, and Zaden ‘26, she has shared her many talents to give back to our school. Sabrina has been an active member of the Parent Teacher Club for the past two decades and has held many volunteer positions at AOS. She was a Room Parent for countless years, Chair of the Care Committee, Team Sports Chair, Gala Chair, and she served on the Executive Committee of the PTC as the Secretary. Through the years, she has faithfully given her time and talent and has made a long-lasting 18 ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL
impact on AOS in meaningful ways that will always be remembered. Whether she was leading the PTC Executive Committee as Secretary or quietly tending to our community’s needs as Care Committee Chair, Sabrina’s heart has always been at the center of her work. She doesn’t just show up; she pours her heart and soul into making AOS a better place for every student and teacher. We honor Sabrina for her unwavering generosity of time, talent, and spirit, and for a commitment to AOS that will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
THE TRIANTAFILOU AWARD The Triantafilou Award was introduced in 2021 as part of the school’s 50th Year Anniversary Celebration. This award is given to someone who embodies and promotes the mission of Annunciation Orthodox School. The Triantafilou Award is named in honor of Father Nick Triantafilou and his wife Presvytera Diane, the founders of AOS.
Julia Crowder 2026 Recipient For over 20 years, from 1996 to 2016, Mrs. Crowder served as the Middle School front desk receptionist. But to describe her by that title alone is to miss the essence of who she was to this community. She was not just the first face you saw when you walked through the doors, she was the face of the Middle School. More than that, she was its heart.
It is only fitting that the Middle School front desk now bears her name. It stands as a daily reminder of the standard she set, not just for what we do for one another here at AOS, but for how we treat one another. Her contribution to AOS was far greater than any job description could capture. She didn’t just support our mission, Julia lived it every single day. And for that, and for her lasting legacy of love, connection, and care, we are deeply grateful.
Every single person who crossed her path was met with something rare and powerful — genuine presence. She didn’t just greet you; she saw you. She made it a point to have a meaningful conversation with everyone, no matter how busy the day was. And in those moments, she created a connection. THE DELPHIAN 2026 19
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT RICK CLARK ’13 CAA Sports Trainee, Brand Consulting
How has an AOS education shaped who you are today? What core values do you carry with you in day-to-day life? I learned a lot of valuable lessons during my time at AOS that I didn’t realize until I got older. When I started high school at Strake Jesuit, I realized just how challenging and demanding the AOS curriculum was. Most of my peers weren’t accustomed to the workload and balance of school and athletics. I found myself overly prepared for my first few years of high school, while a lot of my classmates really struggled with that initial adjustment. The core value I appreciate the most about my time at AOS is just how strong the foundation of my faith in Christ is. That foundation is extremely hard to break, and I often find myself leaning on those values in times of confusion or disappointment. I still remember all of the times we went to Chapel. AOS did such a good 20 ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL
job of tying all of our teachings back to our relationship with Christ. Looking back, those days were really important. What are your favorite memories from AOS? What makes them special? I can’t ever forget the AOS Olympics! I vividly remember just how exciting those games were and how much stake went into them all year long. I loved how competitive the entire school got, even the teachers. You couldn’t tell us it wasn’t the real deal! Once my siblings got a little bit older, every year it was a competition to see whose team did the best. I think I still have a few of my AOS Olympics t-shirts back at the house. I have too many great memories to count — from the Greek festivals, the Scholastic book fairs, the yearly class field trips, to just playing with my friends at recess and during PE — AOS shaped so many aspects
of my childhood that I feel extremely blessed to have been a part of it all. Do you recall a specific teacher who made an impact on you while you attended AOS? There were so many different teachers that impacted my time at AOS, but I’d like to give a special shoutout to both Coach Begg and Coach Bell. They both poured a lot into me during my time playing football and basketball at AOS, and they held me to a high standard of performance. They wouldn’t accept anything from me other than my best effort. It didn’t matter if we won or lost, as long as they knew I left everything I had on the field or the court. I still carry that same mentality to this day. There are so many things in life that are outside of my control, but I can always control just how much work I put in. What inspired you to pursue a career in sports? In high school, I suffered a series of shoulder injuries that ended up cutting my time playing football short. When I first got to the University of Texas, I had no clue what I wanted to pursue. My major was “undeclared,” and I was, for the most part, just going through the motions. It was the first time in my life my identity wasn’t that of an athlete, and I really struggled at first. It wasn’t until I landed an internship opportunity with the Minnesota Vikings that everything changed. I worked in Eagan, Minnesota for the duration of the 2019 Vikings Training Camp, and it opened my eyes to an entire world of sports business that I had never really considered. At that time, the only success I could identify in the sports world came from local athletes who turned professional. Growing up in Houston, there weren’t many people or opportunities in the world of sports business, and I personally didn’t know a single person who worked in that field. Once I got back to Austin after that internship, I had a new sense of direction and ambition. I applied and was accepted into the Sports Management program where I also pursued a minor degree in business. When I graduated from Texas, one of my best friends from Strake Jesuit had a job at CAA in the mailroom and submitted my resume for review. A recruiter from the company reached out to me a few days later and the rest is history! Describe the major parts of your job and what you do.
First LitMag Cover
Angeles office. I directly support two of our senior executives over a variety of different lanes. My current role can mainly be summed up into three buckets — innovation, new business, and business operations. When we think about innovation and new business, we’re focused on new and unique ways for our brand clients to bring their sponsorships and partnerships to life at the intersection of all things sports, entertainment, and culture. These responsibilities change on a day-to-day basis based on specific client needs and ongoing developments in the wider landscape of the sports and entertainment world. I’m currently tasked with supporting one of our top clients to activate their sponsorship and brand strategy alongside the 2026 FIFA World Cup. When we think about business operations, I mainly handle all correspondence that comes through our group in Los Angeles, from setting meetings with external guests, greeting clients as they arrive, onboarding new clients and employees, coordinating in-office events and meetings, and really anything else that takes place within our brand consulting team in Los Angeles.
I have a rather unique role within our Los THE DELPHIAN 2026 21
What is your favorite career-related memory and greatest professional accomplishment thus far? My move to Los Angeles still feels like a scene out of a movie. I was on vacation with my family in Mexico when I got my job offer, and I was told I needed to be in Los Angeles the following week. Over the span of about five days, I had to quit my job in Austin, pack up my entire apartment, break my lease, drive my dog Gumbo from Austin to Houston to stay with my parents, and move across the country from Texas to California with nothing but two suitcases. I slept on an air mattress in my best friend’s studio apartment for several months before finally getting my own place. It was a crazy time in my life, but looking back on it, I really appreciate all the lessons I learned about sacrifice, resilience, and just betting on yourself. It was a move I wanted to make, and I knew the life I wanted wouldn’t create itself. My greatest professional accomplishment, I would say, is just moving from CAA into CAA Sports and getting to the point that I’m at today with the Brand Consulting team. It’s extremely competitive to find work in the sports world right now, and my path was not linear at all. I still feel extremely fortunate to be in the position that I am in. I have a lot more work to do and many more goals to achieve, but I can’t help but remember all the days I didn’t know where things were headed. What advice do you have for the next generation of AOS students who might be interested in a field like yours?
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
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The best piece of advice I can give to the next generation is to believe in yourself and chase your dreams. You can create a career for yourself that you never thought possible through hard work, determination, and a bit of creativity. When you mix what you’re good at with what you love to do, you’re destined for success. There are niches and lanes for everything you could think of, and if there isn’t one currently, there’s an opportunity for you to create one. In today’s world, there are so many distractions and so many things that will prevent you from getting to where you want to go, but if you can block out the noise and find a way to combine your skills with your passions, you’ll have success anywhere you end up.
Teacher Feature
A WONDERFUL ADVENTURE Sally Douglas, her husband, Bob, daughter, Emily ‘05, and sons, Nick ‘08, and Charles ‘18 enjoy SCUBA diving together around the world! This summer, Sally, Bob, Emily, and Charles went on an adventure to the island of Grenada where they dove the world’s largest underwater sculpture park and one of National Geographic’s 25 Wonders of the World! Because of Sally’s love for children, diving to the sculpture of Vicissitudes, a circle of children holding hands, held a special place in her heart.
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Class of 2022 College Choices
OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO American Musical and Dramatic Academy Myles Patterson
Colby College Horatio Wilcox
Howard University Valentina Doss
Auburn University Ava Airhart Jonathan Mathews
Colorado School of Mines Gavin DiBella Isaac Drake
Louisiana State University Leiah Begg
Cross Country and Track & Field
Institutional Scholarship
Academic Heritage Scholarship
Evie Smith Alex Stilwell Barnard College, Columbia University Georgia Pulliam
National Merit Scholar
Case Western Reserve University Luke Burguieres*
Merit Scholarship
Merit Scholarship
Durham University Grace Bowling
Inspiring Excellence Scholarship
Emory University Keira Bigman Avery DiNardo Georgetown University Christopher Harris Gemma Huang
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Howard University Leadership Scholarship
Loyola Marymount University Daniel Makulski
LMU Achievement Award
Middlebury College Tommy Hetherington
Football Northeastern University Will Prout Northwestern University Claire Adkins
University of Notre Dame Neve Merideth
Texas Tech University Farid Doumani
Parsons School of Design at the New School Scott Putman
The New School Riko Adachi
Pennsylvania State University Finley Wiesedeppe Pomona College Caroline Basu Princeton University Porter Collins
Rowing Sewanee Will Garvey Southern Methodist University Chloe Kennedy
SMU Founders Scholarship
Southwestern University Zoe Drake
Merit Scholarship
Stephen F. Austin University Leah Williams
Cheer Texas A&M University Christine Agrons
Dance Team
Nicolas Broyles Aidan Paek Joshua Petrick Milan Shelton
Corps of Cadets Scholarship
Texas Christian University Lily Ana Hilpert Garvey O’Brien
Faculty Scholarship
Lizzy Stabell
Faculty Scholarship
United States Naval Academy Maryn Wise
Crew/Rowing USNA Full Scholarship
University of Alabama Emma Georgiou University of Arkansas Cal Kirkpatrick
New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award
Luke Robbins
Frannie Herndon Kate Jurkash Nicholas Khalil Grace McGinty Benjy Metry Aliki Michael Luke Michael Alyssa Psifidis
Tennis Mayuk Sadhu Sarah Jane Suell Evan Tsigos Jocelyn Valencia University of Texas at Arlington Ereeni Bernitsas
Dance Team Dance Scholarship
University of Chicago Marcos Clark
University of Wisconsin Madeline Klopp
University of Florida Addison Conner
Vanderbilt University Laela Aboudaher Grace Manuel*
University of Georgia Lane Bumgarner Aaron Griggs
Vassar College Langdon Chu
Sloan Rippstein Amelia Youtt
Wake Forest University Henry Caputo*
University of Michigan AJ Patterson*
Washington University Akash McKracken
Merit Award
Presidential Scholar
University of Southern California Sofia Kennedy
Field Hockey
Track & Field
Oliver Tsao *National Merit Semifinalist
University of Tennessee Ella Utterson
Volunteers Scholarship
University of Texas Charlie Bartley Saila Davis Reid Dellinger THE DELPHIAN 2026 25
THE LITHOS SOCIETY
ALUMNI CLASS NOTES
Planned giving provides donors with the opportunity to make a more substantial gift than would otherwise be possible and to create a long-lasting legacy at AOS. Annunciation Orthodox School has a rich tradition of generous philanthropic support. One way to show your support for our school is through a planned gift. The Lithos Society was created to recognize and express gratitude to alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends who have established a charitable gift for AOS in their estate plans. Planned gifts provide critical funds to strengthen and sustain the school’s future. By including AOS in your long-term planning, you become part of setting the lithos (foundation) for the school’s future generations.
Three AOS alumae were elected to serve as Student Body Officers at Episcopal High School.
Juliet Egan ’23 (President), Mary Sam Khalil ’23 (Vice President) & Olivia Bailey ’23 (Parliamentarian)
Examples of planned gifts include naming AOS in your will or as a beneficiary on a life insurance policy, pension, IRA, 401(k) plan, or charitable remainder trust. If you have already included AOS in your estate plans, please let us know so we can appropriately acknowledge and thank you for your gift! If you are interested in learning more about the Lithos Society and how you can give a gift to AOS that will last a lifetime, please contact Jill Buja, Director of Advancement, at jbuja@aoshouston. org for more information.
The word lithos means stone, but throughout time its connotation has evolved into a broader meaning. Most commonly, lithos is used to refer to the foundation of new construction. In the Orthodox Christian language, the word lithos is used to describe Christ as the founder of the Church.
Samford University student, Yianni Rokas ’20 (third from the left), earned national recognition at the 2026 National Opera Association Robert Hansen Collegiate Opera Scenes Competition in Boston. He won first place in the Musical Theatre Division for his performance of “Carried Away” from On the Town.
Olivia Adams ’25 won the 2026 Maverick Award
and the Brenda Aquino Memorial Award at St. John’s Upper School Award Ceremony this past spring.
26 ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL
Matthew and Jessica
(Wimberley) Solcher ’10, welcomed Luke Shepherd Solcher on May 23, 2026. He joins big brother Brooks (2).
Chris and Bailey
(Teas) Mongeon ’04, along with big
St. John’s students from the AOS Class of 2022 gathered for one last photo together before
sisters Millie and Eloise, welcomed Etta Grace Marie Mongeon, on June 28, 2025.
heading off to college! Front Row: Claire Adkins,
Caroline Basu, Laela Aboudaher, Grace Manuel, Neve Merideth, Georgia Pulliam, Grace Bowling, Valentina Doss. Back Row: Andrew Christensen, AJ Patterson, Drew Kalapatapu, Porter Collins, Henry Caputo, Christopher Harris, Akash McCracken, Andrew Wasserman. Not Pictured: Horatio Wilcox Chapel Buddies
Jessica (Wimberley) Solcher ’10 and Hannah Johnston ’17
found themselves together again in the halls of AOS! Jessica teaches first grade, and Hannah was filling in as a substitute teacher.
Marisa Papell ’13 is a 2020 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America where she received her BA in Food Business Management. She was ordained as a rabbi by Hebrew Union College (Cincinnati) in May 2026. Marisa will serve as the rabbi of Congregation Kol Ami in Flower Mound, Texas. She is engaged to Neal Taibel.
Katie (Gartell) Henkes ’14 married
Kendall Henkes in Austin, Texas on March 15, 2026. Six
bridesmaids (Allana
Webb, Kathryn Disch, Ruby Kelley, Emily Sullivan, Lia Onisiphorou, and Katie Perini) were from Katie’s graduating class at AOS!
Meagan O’Shaughnessy ’04
and Luis Alonzo were married at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church on November 15, 2025. They were surrounded by family and lifelong friends, many from AOS!
THE DELPHIAN 2026 27
ALUMNI CLASS NOTES Carolyn (Hammond) McNamara ’15
married Garrett McNamara on March 29, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The couple lives in Houston with their dog, Casey, and they recently purchased their first home. Episcopal High School students from the AOS Class of 2022 gathered for one last photo before heading off college! Back row: Caleb Schultz, Sloan
Julia Sullo ’21
was awarded 2026 Softball All-UAA Rookie of the Year! She attends Washington University in St. Louis.
Gabriel Papazis ’28
Rippstein, Luke Michael, Reid Dellinger, Lane Bumgarner, Nicholas Khalil, Tommy Hetherington. Front Row: Amelia Youtt, Lizzy Stabell, Evie Smith, Garvey O’Brien, Emma Georgiou, Addison Conner, Ava Airhart, Ella Utterson, Jocelyn Valencia, Leiah Begg, Kate Jurkash
saw his Chapel Buddy,
Evan Fry ’21, at Anonymous Cafe in Houston. Evan currently attends The University of Texas.
Clifton Gillock ’03
(right) joined Pinkerton’s Barbecue as Director of Retail Operations and Brand Development. In this role, Clifton is working alongside pitmaster and founder Grant Pinkerton to scale the Pinkerton’s brand, with a primary focus on the company’s line of BBQ sauces and rubs currently sold in HEB & Walmart stores across Texas.
28 ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL
May Their Memory be Eternal Kate Hughes, 1957-2026 Faculty Annunciation Orthodox School celebrates the lives of and acknowledges the loss of our dear alumni, trustees, faculty, and staff. This list is taken from friends and family who have shared this news with us during the previous school year. Please reach out to AOS Communications (communications@aoshouston.org) to honor your loved ones in our next issue of the Delphian Magazine
SAVE THE DATE Join Us!
October 14, 2026
Mrs. Nikkie’s Spaghetti Dinner
December 7, 2026
Golf Tournament hosted by the AOS Dads Club For more information, please contact the Advancement Office at advancement@aoshouston.org.
THE DELPHIAN 2026 29
APPLY TO AOS You already know what makes AOS a unique and special place. The AOS Admission Team can’t wait to see you back on campus!
Application Opens August 5 Application Deadline December 1 Tours Begin September 15
Maria Maricevich ’26 and Nicole Shtereva ’33
REGISTRATION January 20, 2027 Current AOS Families
2027
June 7-21 July 12-30
30 ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL
January 27, 2027 Returning Camp Families
February 3, 2027 Open to the Public
THE DELPHIAN
FALL 2026
The Delphian is published annually by the Communications Office, with support from the Advancement Office. It is sent to alumni, current parents, Grandparents and Special Friends Club members, and friends of the school who wish to receive it. We have made every effort to ensure accuracy in this publication. For information or questions regarding The Delphian, please contact communications@aoshouston.org. Editor in Chief Penny Angelo
Assistant Head of Middle School Johna Rusk
Contributing Editors Sarah Dennis Katherine Koinis Monk ’01
Director of Admission Molly Khalil
Photography Penny Angelo, Chris Sanchez, MD Turner, AOS Community Members Graphic Design Danielle Garbouchian Leadership Team
Head of School Dr. Samuel V. Fragomeni Assistant to the Head of School Colleen Wade Head of Early Childhood & Lower School Ashley Mejia Assistant Head of Early Childhood & Lower School Michelle Staller Head of Middle School Heather Haas
Director of Advancement Jill Buja Director of Communications Sarah Dennis Director of Auxiliary Programs Emily Benton Director of Finance & Operations Bryant Richardson Director of Fine Arts Mike Murdoch
To learn more and to make a contribution to AOS, visit
aoshouston.org/giving
Director of Physical Education & Athletics Ron Robinson Director of Technology Patrick Foye Director of School Life Kelley Elliott
THE DELPHIAN 2026 31
The Delphian ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL 3600 YOAKUM BOULEVARD HOUSTON, TEXAS 77006-4240
713.470.5600 aoshouston.org