(SAVANNAH, Ga.)Bethesda Academy, an independent private day school for boys and young men and the oldest child-care institution in the U.S., held its annual Senior Recognition and Blazer Ceremony and luncheon.
Mike Hughes, 5 seniors, Karleen Brown, Stephanie VanVleck
In honor of the start of the school year, senior students were given their navy blue blazer, khaki pants, white collared shirt, tie, belt, socks and shoes. The outfits were a gift from the Women’s Board of Bethesda.
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is an independent private day school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and cattle program and a college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
Bethesda Academy Receives $10,000 Grant to Study Historic Campus Grounds and History, Linking Past to Present
The General Society of Colonial Wars awards the requested sum to research, dig and maintain documentation on the school’s past.
(SAVANNAH, Ga.) Bethesda Academy, an independent private day school for boys and young men and the oldest child-care institution in the U.S., was awarded a $10,000 grant by the General Society of Colonial Wars for historical research and an archeological dig on the 650-acre Savannah campus.
Featured from left to right: Pearce Reeve, John Reddan, Paul Pressly, PhD.
Founded as an orphanage by evangelist George Whitefield in 1740, Bethesda Academy once boasted the largest building in the colony of Georgia. The actual location of that original building, made of bricks that had to be imported from the Northeast, is currently unknown. The historical significance of the building and its construction extends beyond the campus to the entire colony itself.
“That building saved the colony from bankruptcy because Mr. Whitefield went up and down the East Coast to Philadelphia, Boston, and New York, raising money for the project and keeping so many people working. It had a profound effect on Georgia way back then,” said Paul Pressly, vice-chairman of the board of Bethesda Academy and a board member of the General Society of Colonial Wars.
The board members agree the evolution of this historic institution also connects the present to the past. Bethesda Orphan House has the distinction of being the oldest child caring institution in the country. It was co-ed for a brief period at the start but eventually, in 1900, became the Bethesda Home for Boys, an institute educating and teaching trades to young men. In 1992, Bethesda School began educating students on the 600-acre campus, providing a wide range of learning experiences rooted in George Whitefield’s founding mission. In 2011, the school was officially re-branded as Bethesda Academy, an accredited private school that has since developed into a leadership academy, reflecting the school’s commitment to college preparatory learning.
“Our history isn’t individual segments, but an ongoing story. The school motto, ‘A love of God, a love of learning, and a strong work ethic,’ connects us to our past because that means as much now as it did in 1740,” Pressly added.
Knowing more about the school’s history is important to connect past and future, and telling the school’s story on a national level will help garner wider support. This endeavor won’t be the first time Bethesda Academy strives for a nationwide audience. It happened before, more than a century ago.
John Reddan, Director of Institutional Advancement at Bethesda Academy, explains that in the late 1800s, Col. William Estill, whose family owned the Savannah Morning News, was a board member of the school. He regularly wrote newspaper columns about the school, and the inspiring stories of Bethesda’s challenges and triumphs were occasionally picked up by the national news wire service.
“As a result, Bethesda in Savannah was getting donations from Maine to Chicago and from other big cities around the country,” Reddan said. “A national audience at the turn of the century was unheard of at the time. We would like to get one now, and this donation helps us let people know the difference we make in the lives of people in our care.”
The General Society of Colonial Wars holds conventions in areas with historical significance to the Revolutionary War. The group met in Savannah in February 2022, with representatives touring the Bethesda Academy campus to discuss its role in the Revolutionary War. The history and present of the school and its mission struck a chord with the organization. Five months later, the grant was awarded.
The General Society of Colonial Wars is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in New York in 1892 for the purpose of furthering the interest in and study of America’s Colonial history for the period between the settlement of Jamestown, Va., on May 13, 1607, and the battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775. The Society continues its mission by collecting and preserving manuscripts, rolls, relics and records; erecting memorials; hosting commemorations; and supporting academic research for the purpose of inspiring in the community a respect and reverence for those whose public service made our freedom and unity possible.
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is an independent private day school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and cattle program and a college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
(SAVANNAH, Ga.) Bethesda Academy held its annual Scholarship Gala at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 20, on the grounds of the historic school. “Under the Oaks” was the theme of the event, and all proceeds benefitted scholarship programs for students who would otherwise not be able to afford tuition. The festivities continued with the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2022 at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 21.
“This class is very special to the school. They had to overcome so much over the last two years with the pandemic and countless disruptions,” said Bethesda AcademyPresident Dr. Michael Hughes. “They showed their tenacity and I am so proud of what they achieved. We are confident they’re going to do great things in the future.”
On graduation day, the twelve students of the Class of 2022 took the ceremonial Reflection Walk with the faculty and staff. The group strolled across the campus, stopping at various buildings and outdoor locations to reflect on their time at Bethesda Academy. The students shared stories of lessons learned, friends they met, and memorable moments during their experience at the school. At the conclusion of the Reflection Walk, the graduation ceremony was held.
The Class of 2022 Valedictorian is Adrian O’Kee, who has received a scholarship to attend Savannah College of Art & Design to pursue graphic design. The Salutatorian is Charles “Chad” Grefski Jr. and he will attend Georgia Southern University.
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is a private day school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and cattle program and a college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
Bethesda Academy Holds Scholarship Soirée and Graduation Ceremony on CampusThe Scholarship Soirée Returns After Last Year’s Event was Cancelled Due to the Pandemic(SAVANNAH, Ga.)After a hiatus due to the pandemic last year, Bethesda Academy held its annual Scholarship Soirée outdoors on the school’s historic campus. The Class of 2021 continued the on-campus festivities with a graduation ceremony the following morning.
2021 Bethesda Academy Senior Class Savannah Scholarship Soiree
“We are very pleased to have been able to proceed with the Scholarship Soirée and honor our students the next day at the graduation ceremony. This graduated class endured and overcame so much over the last year, our faculty and staff are just so proud of them,” said Bethesda Academy president Dr. Michael Hughes. “The way they weathered the storm speaks to their character and determination to succeed.”
Griffith V. Lynch, executive director of the Georgia Ports Authority, was the soirée’s keynote speaker. A proven leader in the maritime industry for nearly 30 years, Lynch served as the chief operating officer of the GPA for five years before becoming the executive director. His appearance underscores the relationship between Bethesda Academy and GPA through the Y.E.S. (Youth learning Equipment and Safety) Program. Launched in early 2019, the Y.E.S. program has worked with Bethesda graduates, as well as graduates from other local high schools, on operations careers at the city’s growing deepwater shipping port.
As in previous years, all proceeds from the soirée benefit scholarship programs for Bethesda students who would otherwise not be able to afford tuition. The guests enjoyed an evening of food, music and fun while supporting a worthy cause. Sponsors of the event included The Trolinger Family, The Littlejohn Family, Gavilon Fertilizer, LLC, THA Group, South State Bank, Sterling Seacrest Partners, The Moore Family and Georgia Ports Authority.
Of the eight students of Bethesda Academy Class of 2021, seven will be attending college and one will be participating in the GPA Y.E.S. program. Many will have accumulated college credits, further reducing the cost of their higher education.
The Class of 2021 Valedictorian is Ian Eckmann, who has received a scholarship to attend SCAD to pursue screenwriting and acting. The Class of 2021 Salutatorian is Carlton Brown, who will be attending Shorter University In Rome, Georgia, where he will also be playing football.
Bethesda Academy Holds Scholarship Soirée and Graduation Ceremony on Campus
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is a private day school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and cattle program and a college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
(SAVANNAH, Ga.) Antjuan McKay, senior quarterback and defensive back for the Bethesda Academy Blazers, signed a letter of intent to attend Shorter University in Rome, Georgia.
Pictured Left to Right: Deandrea Savage, mother; Antjuan McKay, Bethesda Academy senior; Antjuan McKay Sr., father; and Kweisi Jones, brother, celebrate Antjuan’s collegiate football signing day.
In recognizing McKay’s potential for succeeding at the collegiate level, Shorter University has awarded him with a football scholarship to join their program next year.
“Antjuan’s accomplishments in the classroom and on the field represent the best of what the staff and faculty at Bethesda Academy aim for, and it’s wonderful to see all his hard work and determination pay off,” said Dr. Michael Hughes, President of Bethesda Academy. “We are all very proud of him.”
McKay led the 2019 football team to a 2A Regional championship and a runner-up position for the SCISA A State Championship. Earning a reputation as the first to arrive at practice and the last to leave, he also excels on the basketball court and with the school’s competitive track and field team. In the classroom, he has maintained a 3.0-grade point average.
In addition, McKay assists with Bethesda Academy summer youth camps and helps coach the Bethesda middle school football team. Off the field, he participates in the school’s Small Business Internship Program, Environmental Science Club, Chess Club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Bethesda Academy is a private day school for boys and young men in grades six through twelve. The diverse student body is served by a staff of 35 dedicated employees, with 70% of teachers holding a Master’s degree. Bethesda offers small class sizes, a structured environment and a strong sense of community.
Over his career at Bethesda Academy, Antjuan passed for 5,022 yards, rushed for more than 1,500 yards, threw 46 touchdowns, ran for 21 touchdowns, made 9 interceptions playing defense, and was named both a SCISA all-region and all-state athlete. He was also selected to play in the SCISA Blitz Border Bowl.
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY OF SAVANNAH Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is a private day and boarding school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and organic farming program and college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
Bethesda Academy Senior Accepts Football Scholarship During Social Distancing Signing-Day Ceremony Team Celebrates with Neighborhood Parade
(SAVANNAH, GA) Bethesda Academy held a signing day ceremony for senior Jaden Wright who accepted a football scholarship from Presbyterian College, which located at Clinton, South Carolina.
Wright has made stellar strides during his football career at Bethesda Academy, and his talents have been widely recognized. He has been named the South Carolina Independent Schools Association (SCISA) Region Player of the Year and the SCISA All-State Offensive Player of the Year. He was also honored at the Savannah Morning News‘ Best of Preps banquet as First Team All Savannah Offense.
To adhere to social distancing practices, Bethesda Head Coach Antwain Turner organized a signing day ceremony to take place safely at the Wright’s home. After the signing, teachers and Wright’s teammates celebrated by honking horns and waving streamers during a neighborhood parade.
Jaden Wright signs with Presbyterian College.
“Our 2020 seniors deserve the same, momentous send-off as their classmates before them,” said Turner. “We’re all so proud of Jaden, and we just had to think of a way for the Bethesda community to show him how excited we are for his scholarship because he has most certainly earned it.”
During high school, Wright made 420 Carries for 3,795 yards, 9 yards per carry, 97 yards per game and a grand total of 52 touchdowns for the Bethesda Academy football team. He was named the school’s Player of the Year for 2019-2020, in addition to earning a Player of the Week title from the Savannah Quarterback Club.
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is a private day and boarding school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and organic farming program and college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
Roberson has played on the Bethesda Academy football team as a lineman for three of his four years in high school, having missed his junior year due to a preseason knee injury. Highlights from his senior year include 64 tackles on defense and offensive blocks that accounted for 3,002 rushing yards and 2,017 passing yards. He will receive a full-ride scholarship to play at Savannah State.
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is a private day and boarding school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and organic farming program and college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
Craig Sherman and Jennifer Gilmour are the recipients of this honor. Sherman teaches social studies and history. Gilmour is a science and mathematics teacher, as well as a cottage teacher, whose responsibilities include ensuring all students staying in the cottage complete homework assignments, finish chores and are in bed on time.
“This is a major accomplishment for Mr. Sherman and Mrs. Gilmour, as well as for Bethesda Academy on several counts,” said Michael Hughes, president of Bethesda. “Firstly, an amazing amount of work goes into the application, so it is a lengthy and arduous process. Additionally, it is very rare for one school to have two master teachers named at once.”
The application process includes meeting rigorous teaching qualifications and submitting an entire portfolio for evaluation by a peer committee. It also entails presentations and exhausting interviews, endorsement letters from school officials and sample lesson plans.
“In their evaluation, SCISA staff also noted a ‘surge in professional development and teaching quality at Bethesda,’ because two of our teachers, Kim Godbee-Glisson and Elizabeth Peek, had been recent finalists for Teacher of the Year,” said Hughes. “This recognition is a tribute to our entire faculty and staff. Each consistently personifies Bethesda’s commitment to ensuring students receive a superior education that will enable them to mature into young men with the potential to lead exemplary lives.”
Having formerly been affiliated with the Georgia Independent School Association, Bethesda Academy has been a member of the South Carolina Independent School Association since 2014. SCISA is a non-profit voluntary association of independent schools responsible for establishing accreditation standards, coordinating athletic and academic competitions and providing professional development opportunities for member schools.
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is a private day and boarding school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and organic farming program and college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
Bethesda Academy Partners with Savannah Technical College to Offer Dual Enrollment Courses with an Early College Essentials Technical Certificate of Credit
Savannah Technical College also offers occupational program courses for students to take through Dual Enrollment. If students complete occupational courses, they may be eligible to graduate with occupational program certifications at the time of their graduation from Bethesda Academy.
“Bethesda Academy is proud to partner with Savannah Technical College to make additional college credit options available to our students,” said Michael Hughes, president of Bethesda. “Our focus is on college-preparatory academics, and this program gives us an additional transferrable college-prep path for our students. We are delighted with this new partnership.”
Savannah Technical College offers 28 general core courses that transfer to any University System of Georgia institution. General core courses include English, mathematics, natural sciences, humanities/fine arts, and social/behavioral science.
Dual Enrollment is open to any student in grades 9-12 who has a grade point average of 2.6 or higher in Georgia.
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is a private day and boarding school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and organic farming program and college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
Bethesda Hires Veteran Educator with State, National Credentials to Direct Admissions
(SAVANNAH, GA) Bethesda Academy has hired a director of admissions who is a veteran teacher with state and national credentials and nearly two decades in the classroom.
Tia Adkins joins the staff at the private college-preparatory day and boarding school for young men in grades six through 12.
Tia Adkins
“Ms. Adkins brings a wealth of experience to this position, and we are delighted that experience ranges from classroom teaching to statewide remediation to work with national curriculum publishers,” said Michael Hughes, president of Bethesda. “Her leadership will be invaluable to the students we serve.”
Her education career began in Gadsden and Pooler elementary schools, where she became a finalist for Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools’ teacher of the year and was named the 2006 Grammy Foundation Character Through the Arts national teacher of the year. She also served as the local school district’s literary specialist for two years.
At the state level, Adkins worked on a literacy project funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. In the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement, she led teams of teachers at struggling schools who were working to find innovative ways to teach in challenging situations. As a mentor to other teachers, she taught how to implement Common Core curriculum elements and other strategies and worked often with low-achieving schools in remediation efforts.
She also spent six years with Scholastic Achievement Partners, now Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, as a manager of professional learning. Plus, she has worked as an independent contractor writing content for a new pre-kindergarten curriculum and is the author of the forthcoming book “Setting the Standards for Centers.”
Adkins earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education at Armstrong State College and has a master’s degree in education from Cambridge College in Boston.
“It’s exciting to open a new chapter in my education career, working with older, college-bound students,” Adkins said. “Bethesda Academy fills a unique niche in Savannah education, and I’m proud to be a part of an education program with centuries of experience in serving youth.”
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. Now it is a private day and boarding school for young men in grades six through twelve and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The 650-acre campus features a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and organic farming program and college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
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