Leadership and service came to life for 18 Barons who were selected by the American Legion or American Legion Auxiliary to attend the Palmetto Boys & Girls State Conventions in June. During the week-long leadership and civics immersion program, students explored government in action, built leadership skills, participated in themed schools like law and media, and took part in teamwork, friendly competitions, and appearances by prominent civic leaders.
Students, who submitted an application and were interviewed by the organizations, were selected based on the following criteria: demonstrated interest in government, leadership, character, scholarship, and loyalty and service to their schools. The following were selected to attend Girls State at Presbyterian College: Morgan Aycock, Addie Griffin, Lucy Hayes Mims & Paige Sanders. The following were chosen to attend Boys State at Anderson University: Andy Cseh, Benson Elmore, Milling Galloway, Cooper Hill, Andrew Howle, Henry Jones, Austin McLaurin, Ben McLaurin, Logan Pauly, Banks Smith, Michael Thorne, Stirling Tindal, Ford Wilder & Walker Wilson.
Congratulations to Salutatorian Sara Helen Simmons and Valedictorian Josie Jackson for delivering outstanding speeches at the graduation ceremony. Their words, infused with humor, heart, and inspiration, perfectly captured the spirit of the Class of '25. Josie will be attending Georgetown University in the fall, while Sara Helen is headed to Northwestern University.
Congratulations to Shawn Michael Matthews, recipient of the 54th John S. Wilson Award, the highest honor a Wilson Hall student can receive. This award recognizes a senior who exemplifies the ideal qualities of a Wilson Hall student—academic achievement, leadership, character, and service to the school, community, and church. The award was presented by Mrs. Helen Wilson Taylor ’76 during the graduation ceremony.
Congratulations to Sara Helen Simmons & Josie Jackson who were named recipients of the Shephard K. Nash Scholar Award. This award honors their achievement as National Merit Finalists, Semifinalists, or Commended Students. They were presented with a specially minted U.S. silver dollar featuring Mr. Nash’s likeness, a tribute to his legacy of academic excellence, generosity, and instrumental role in the founding of our school.
In honor of Mrs. Mary Lou Lee’s 56 years of extraordinary service to Wilson Hall, the new Mary Lou Lee Character Award is presented to a second-grade student who reflects her legacy of quiet humility, unwavering dedication, and boundless love. The recipient demonstrates hard work, humor, dependability, good manners, humility, and care for others—qualities that capture the heart and soul of Wilson Hall. This year’s recipient, Andrew Duke ‘35, received the award at the Lower School Awards Program and was honored with a $1,000 scholarship and a plaque.
Maria Castro ‘33 received the Lynn H. Reynolds Award at the Lower School Awards Program. The award, established by Dr. and Mrs. Phil Brandt in memory of Lynn, honors a fourth-grade student who meets life’s challenges with positivity, has a zest for life, an appreciation for music, and a love for nature. Maria received a plaque and a $1,000 award applied toward tuition.
Ella Sill ’26 was named the recipient of the Barbara Moses Unsworth Award during the Upper School Awards Program, an honor presented annually to the most well-rounded member of the junior class. Established by the Class of 1973 in memory of their classmate Barbara Moses Unsworth, the award recognizes a student who exemplifies the ideal qualities of leadership, academic achievement, and strong character.
Recipients are selected by a committee composed of an administrator and two faculty members who teach juniors. From a list of faculty-nominated students, the committee carefully considers which individual best represents the balance of scholastic excellence and personal integrity that defined Barbara’s legacy. Ella’s selection for this meaningful award reflects her leadership in the classroom and beyond, as well as her commitment to excellence and service within the Wilson Hall community
Luke Bartlett '29 was honored with the James M. DuBose Award at the Upper School Academic Awards Program, a distinction presented to the eighth-grade student who exemplifies Christ-like character, academic and athletic effort, positivity, encouragement, and compassion for others. Established by the Class of 1998 in memory of Jamie DuBose, the award reflects the values that Jamie embodied during his time at Wilson Hall. A committee of administrators and faculty members selected Luke from a pool of faculty-nominated eighth graders. In addition to the award plaque, Luke received a $500 check to be applied toward tuition or designated for an academic or athletic need at Wilson Hall.
Banks Smith ’26 was honored with the John M. Brabham III Award during the Upper School Academic Awards Program, a meaningful recognition awarded to a student who embodies the values of compassion, leadership, and a sincere dedication to the Wilson Hall community. The award was established by the Brabham family in memory of John M. Brabham III, a beloved student who would have graduated with the Class of 2011.
The criteria for the award include a sincere love and compassion for classmates, intellectual engagement with faculty, enthusiasm and positivity among peers, and a willingness to contribute meaningfully to life at Wilson Hall. The recipient must also demonstrate an appropriate balance between having fun and being competitive, and serve as a role model, much like a big brother, within the school community.
In addition to the honor, the award includes a $1,000 gift that may be directed toward an academic, artistic, or athletic need at the school, or used for tuition by the recipient or another student. As part of the tradition, the award recipient also selects a faculty member who has greatly influenced their education. Banks chose Mrs. Lori Brown, who taught him Advanced Placement U.S. History and 8th Grade History, recognizing her impact on his academic journey. Banks’s selection as this year’s recipient reflects his exemplary character and dedication to uplifting others and enhancing the Wilson Hall experience.
Campbell Williams ’27 was presented with the John W. Chappell Award during the Upper School Academic Awards Program, an honor that recognizes a student who demonstrates exceptional achievement and a deep appreciation for U.S. History. The award is given annually to a student who maintains at least an A average in the course, exhibits a genuine love for the subject, and upholds the highest standards of moral character and citizenship.
Established in memory of Mr. John W. Chappell, who served on the Wilson Hall Board of Trustees and was the father of three graduates (Laura Chappell Bauknight ’83, Cile Chappell Wildrick ’85, and Molly Chappell McPhail ’87) the award reflects his enduring legacy of intellectual curiosity and integrity. Campbell’s selection for this meaningful award highlights not only his academic excellence but also his character and enthusiasm for learning about the nation’s history.
Frances Mac Elmore ’25 was honored with the Charles T. Smith Award, presented annually to a student who has demonstrated outstanding service to the school, community, and/or church. Established in honor of Mr. Smith, who served as Wilson Hall’s athletic director for 30 years, the award includes a $250 gift and reflects the values of dedication and selfless service that he embodied.
Diya Patel ’25 was named this year’s Star Student, an honor awarded to the senior with the highest SAT score who has a minimum 4.0 GPA and has attended Wilson Hall since at least the 11th grade. Diya selected Mrs. Molly Matthews, who taught her AP English Language and Honors English I, as her Star Teacher. Both delivered heartfelt speeches during the Senior Awards Program.
Emily Mason ’25 was honored with the Lisa Moersen Service to School Award, which recognizes a senior who has actively and selflessly served Wilson Hall throughout their school career. Presented by Mr. Neal Moersen ’06 in memory of his mother, a beloved long-time parent, volunteer, and supporter of the school, the award celebrates a student whose dedication reflects the same heartfelt commitment that defined Mrs. Moersen’s decades of service to the Wilson Hall community.
During the Senior Awards Program, Abby Bradley, Frances Mac Elmore, Emily Mason, Akshar Patel, and Kadence Tuders were inducted into the Veritas in Unitate Society, a prestigious honor established by the South Carolina Independent School Association. The society recognizes senior students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and a strong commitment to community service.
To be considered for induction, students must be nominated by their school and recommended by their head of school. Eligible students are required to have completed a minimum of 50 documented hours of community service between June of their junior year and October of their senior year and must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. In addition to meeting these qualifications, nominees must submit a 500-word essay on the importance of community service and provide three letters of recommendation from school or community leaders who have directly observed their service efforts. The five honorees exemplify the values of leadership, academic excellence, and meaningful service that the Veritas in Unitate Society seeks to recognize.
Abby Bradley ’25 received the prestigious Larry K. Watt Award, one of the highest honors presented by the South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA), in recognition of her outstanding academic achievements and commitment to community service. Among more than 130 SCISA member schools, Abby is the only recipient from a 4A school to earn this distinction. To be considered for the award, a student must be nominated by their school, recommended by the Head of School, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and complete at least 50 hours of documented community service after June of their junior year. Nominees must also submit a 500-word essay on the importance of community service and provide three letters of recommendation from school or community leaders who have directly observed their service efforts. Abby’s selection for the Larry K. Watt Award highlights her dedication to making a positive impact both in the classroom and in the broader community.
What sophomore Lexi Fox learned in the classroom made a real-world impact in a truly heroic way. Lexi put her training into action when she administered CPR to an unconscious 44-year-old man, sustaining life-saving efforts until paramedics arrived. She learned the proper techniques for CPR in her Health & Human Development class taught by Mrs. Allyson Sanders. Lexi’s quick thinking and calm response in a critical moment are a powerful example of how classroom lessons can translate into life-saving skills.
Andy Cseh and Kadence Newman are featured in The Sumter Item's Next Generation. Please click on this link to read the full article.
To celebrate National Decision Day, the Class of ’25 brought color and college pride to campus as they “Chalked Their Choice” on the walkway in front of the Upper School. Dressed in t-shirts repping their future schools, seniors marked the milestone moment with music, donuts, and plenty of chalk-filled creativity. Inside, college pennants featuring the names of accepted students will line the hallway—thanks to College Counselor Mrs. Sarah Smith—serving as a festive tribute to a successful admissions season. With the 52 seniors earning acceptances to 60 unique colleges in 14 states and the District of Columbia, the Class of ’25 is ready to take the next big step.
For the 18th time, Wilson Hall has been named Best Private School in the Best of Sumter contest, reaffirming the community’s continued confidence in the school’s excellence. With more than 305,000 votes cast in the annual competition sponsored by The Sumter Item, this honor reflects the strong support of students, families, alumni, and friends. In addition, congratulations go to Wilson Hall’s own Coach Kurt Wilson, who was named Best Life Coach, a well-deserved recognition of his positive impact both on and off the field.
Big news! Wilson Hall is expanding with the acquisition of new property—exciting growth ahead! Please watch the video for more information: Video
WH proudly celebrated its official designation as a Purple Star School during the Month of the Military Child, a national observance each April that honors the strength and resilience of military-connected children. This prestigious recognition highlights the school’s ongoing commitment to supporting the unique needs of students whose families serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The designation ceremony took place on April 23 in Founders Chapel, where students, faculty, and military families gathered for a meaningful celebration. Mr. Brent Kaneft, Head of School, welcomed the guests before Middle School Principal Mr. Lee Gandy opened the program with a prayer. Fifth-grader Lexi Bowen led the Pledge of Allegiance, and senior Patrick Norton shared heartfelt remarks about life as a military student. Dr. Kim Priester of the South Carolina Department of Education formally presented the Purple Star designation, while Sumter Mayor David Merchant issued a proclamation honoring the school’s support of military families.
The event, coordinated by School Counselor and program leader Mrs. Day Caughman, also coincided with Purple Up! Day, with students and faculty wearing purple to show their support for the over 20% of WHstudents with military ties. Mrs. Jennie Bowen, the Military Family Representative for the PTO, provided festive balloon arches and decorations throughout campus, and a reception followed the ceremony.
By earning the Purple Star status, WH joins a distinguished group of schools recognized by state education departments and the Military Child Education Coalition for creating a welcoming and supportive environment. This designation reflects a comprehensive approach that includes staff training, accessible resources, a designated liaison, dedicated support systems for transitioning families, and community events that celebrate military service. With this honor, WH reaffirms its deep respect for military families and its mission to ensure every student feels seen, supported, and valued.
Sara Helen Simmons has been named a National Merit Scholar, the only student in Sumter County to receive this prestigious honor and one of just 7,140 students selected nationwide. The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the most esteemed academic competitions in the United States, recognizing students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and potential for success in college. Selection is based on top PSAT/NMSQT scores, academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, leadership, and a personal essay. Sara Helen’s achievement not only reflects her dedication and intellect, but also highlights the strength of Wilson Hall’s rigorous college preparatory curriculum, which continues to prepare students to excel at the highest national levels.
The following members of the Class of 2026—Muskaan Judge, Austin McLaurin, Olivia Russell, Banks Smith, Mary Ellen Thorne, and Bowen Zitzke—have been named Junior Honor Marshals, a distinction awarded to students who have attended Wilson Hall since the tenth grade and hold the highest grade point averages in their class. Announced by Mr. Brent Kaneft ‘00, Head of School, and presented with blue sashes by Mrs. Susan Barfield, Academic Dean, during a special ceremony for students, faculty, and parents, these exceptional scholars exemplify the academic excellence for which Wilson Hall is known. As members of one of the most academically competitive classes in recent years, they have distinguished themselves not only through their outstanding academic achievements but also by balancing numerous leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and service commitments. Their dedication, intellect, and work ethic are a testament to the rigorous and enriching educational environment Wilson Hall provides. The Junior Honor Marshals will proudly represent their class during the Senior Awards Program and Graduation Ceremony.
Please follow the link to the video card celebrating the life of Mrs. Wilson, one of our school's greatest supporters throughout its history. Thank you, Mrs. Wilson, for all that you did for our school. Your legacy endures.
Josie Jackson is the Chapter Award Winner for the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Program in Sumter. She will represent Sumter in the state-level competition. The DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest, created in 1934, recognizes and rewards individuals who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. Each school in Sumter County was invited to nominate one senior for the competition. The nominees submitted a resume and academic transcript, wrote an essay on patriotism, and participated in an interview with members of the DAR.
Rising 9th through 12th grade students and their parents attended the Curriculum Information Night coordinated by Mrs. Susan Barfield, Director of Academics. As the 2025-26 course scheduling process approaches, the event provided a valuable opportunity to explore the curriculum and Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings in an engaging setting. After a brief overview, families met with AP teachers and department chairs, asked questions, and gathered key information about course expectations and academic planning. Whether considering one of the 22 AP courses for the first time or building on their academic journey, attendees left with insights to guide their course selections for the upcoming school year.
Wilson Hall has earned the College Board's Advanced Placement Computer Science Female Diversity Award for expanding young women’s access to AP Computer Science Principles. This award acknowledges schools for their work toward equal gender representation during the 2023-24 school year. The honor recognizes the outstanding work the school is doing to engage more female students in computer science; Wilson Hall is one of 23 schools in South Carolina and the only school in Sumter County to receive this recognition. Schools receiving the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award have achieved either 50% or higher female exam taker representation in one of or both AP computer science courses, or a percentage of female computer science exam takers that meets or exceeds that of the school’s female population. In addition to the AP Computer Science Principles class, Wilson Hall offers AP Computer Science (JAVA Programming) and 12 other technology classes to high school students.
Over 120 juniors and their parents gathered for the college admissions meeting hosted by Mrs. Sarah Smith, our College Counselor. Representatives from Clemson, Furman, Presbyterian, USC, and Wofford shared valuable insights into the admissions process and answered questions to help students plan their next steps.
Senior Lottie Bynum was featured as October's selection for Sumter's Next Generation in The Sumter Item. Please click on the link to read the article: Lottie Bynum
The College Board recognized Wilson Hall as a 2024 AP Honor Roll Platinum school, the highest recognition, for developing an Advanced Placement (AP) program that creates a college-going culture and gives students opportunities to earn college credit and to maximize their college outcomes. Only six percent of the eligible schools in the nation receive this award, and the recognition reflects Wilson Hall’s mission of providing a rigorous college preparatory education.
The Class of 2025 exceeded the criteria to receive this high distinction: 88% of the graduating cohort took at least one AP exam during high school (80% required), 73% of the graduating cohort scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam during high school (50% required), and 34% of the graduating cohort took five or more AP exams during high school with at least one being taken in the 9th or 10th grade (15% required).
The AP is a global academic program in more than 100 countries. AP Exams, which students take after completing challenging college-level courses taught at their high school, are graded on a five-point scale (5 being the highest). Most of the nation’s colleges and universities award credit, advanced placement, or both for grades of 3 or higher. To qualify to teach an AP course, teachers must attend an intensive AP workshop held during the summer. Wilson Hall offers 22 AP courses, more than any school in Sumter, Clarendon and Lee counties.
In May, 95 Wilson Hall students became eligible to receive college credit by earning a score of 3 or higher on at least one exam. Wilson Hall's average passing rate is 86%, above the global average passing rate of 60%. There were 111 Wilson Hall students who took a total of 255 exams. Mrs. Susan Barfield, Director of Academics, coordinates the school’s AP program.
The website Niche included Wilson Hall among the top 10 schools in South Carolina for its 2025 rankings, listing the school as the #8 Best College Prep Private High School in the state. It was also named #14 Best High School for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, public or private, in the state. Wilson Hall is the only school in Sumter, Clarendon and Lee counties, public or private, to earn these recognitions. Additionally, Wilson Hall was ranked #1 Best High Schools for Athletes in Sumter County. The ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and reviews from students and parents. Ranking factors include SAT/ACT scores, the quality of colleges that students consider, student-teacher ratio, private school ratings, and more. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education, Niche users, and schools directly.
Josie Jackson ‘25 was recognized in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program as a Commended Student. Commended Students placed among the top three percent of more than 1.3 million students who entered the 2025 competition by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The program recognizes high school seniors who have excelled in academics and have the potential to succeed in rigorous college studies, and about 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise.
Shawn Michael Matthews & Jane McAdams received the honor of Mr. and Miss Wilson Hall. Each fall, the upper school faculty nominates students for Mr. and Miss Wilson Hall and the Mr. and Miss for grades 9-11. When nominating a student, the faculty considers the following factors: above average academics, participation in athletics and/or extracurricular activities, outstanding citizenship, and excellent character.
From the list of faculty nominated candidates, students in grades 9-12 voted for their own class. While voting, students consider the same criteria the faculty considers when choosing the most well-rounded representatives of their class and of Wilson Hall. The following underclassmen received this honor: Junior - Andrew Howle and Charli Bonser, Sophomore - Abel Ayres and Livie Pedersen, and Freshman - Wilkes Burnette and Harper Burke.
Congratulations to Shawn Michael Matthews & Sara Helen Simmons who were selected by their classmates for the title of Most Likely to Succeed, as well as to the other superlative seniors: Most Athletic - Owen Meyers & Molly Jones, Most Dependable - Thomas Creech & Annabelle Branham, Friendliest - Parker McLeod & Emma Howle, Most Intelligent - Andrew Segars & Josie Jackson, Most School Spirit - Michael Lauzon & Camryn Wilmes, Most Talented - Logan Schumacher & Sophie Sweatman, and Wittiest - Knox Buxton & Lucy Buxton.
Military Appreciation Night was August 30 at the varsity football game; military families received free admission. To commemorate the night, 30 American flags, on loan from Sumter Museum, were placed around Spencer Field. Red, white & blue balloon arches decorated the entryway, and fans dressed to the spirit theme of U.S.A. The Shaw Air Force Base Honor Guard presented the colors, Chaplain Jacqueline Peppin offered the invocation, Senior Airman Savannah Emile sang the National Anthem, and Col. (Ret.) Brian Jackson did the coin toss. Approximately 19% of Wilson Hall's student body and faculty are associated with the military.
The following members of the Class of ‘25 were chosen by the American Legion or American Legion Auxiliary to attend the Palmetto Boys State and Girls State Conventions: Thomas Creech, Frances Mac Elmore, Josie Jackson, Molly Jones, Shawn Michael Matthews, Owen Meyers, Parker McLeod, Logan Schumacher and Andrew Segars.
Students, who submitted an application and were interviewed by the organizations, were selected based on the following criteria: demonstrated interest in government, leadership, character, scholarship, and loyalty and service to their schools.
The boys convention was held at Anderson University and the girls at Presbyterian College from June 8-14. The conventions were unique ways for rising high school seniors to learn about the American system of government and politics by participating in a mock governmental system. Delegates also had the opportunity to explore potential career paths through the different programs including the Performing Arts School, Criminal Justice Academy, and Law School.
Josie Jackson, Jane McAdams, Diya Patel & Sara Helen Simmons are Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma Candidates. WH is the only school in the area approved by the College Board to offer the AP Capstone Diploma Program, which is based on two, yearlong AP courses: AP Seminar and AP Research. The AP Capstone Diploma is granted to students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on four additional AP Exams of their choosing.
Because of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement (AP) Exams, 47 students received recognition from the College Board. About 20 percent of the 2.2 million students worldwide who took AP Exams performed at a sufficiently high level to earn an AP Scholar Award. In May, 95 Wilson Hall students became eligible to receive college credit by earning a score of 3 or higher on at least one exam. Wilson Hall's average passing rate is 86%, above the global average passing rate of 60%. There were 111 Wilson Hall students who took a total of 255 exams.
The AP is a global academic program in more than 100 countries. AP Exams, which students take after completing challenging college-level courses taught at their high school, are graded on a five-point scale (5 being the highest). Most of the nation’s colleges and universities award credit, advanced placement, or both for grades of 3 or higher. To qualify to teach an AP course, teachers must attend an intensive AP workshop held during the summer. Wilson Hall offers 22 AP courses, more than any school in Sumter, Clarendon, Kershaw and Lee counties.
The following members of the Class of ‘25 received the AP Scholar with Distinction Award, the highest offered, for earning an average grade of at least 3.5 on all exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on five or more exams: Sarah-Jane Bates, Josie Jackson, Jane McAdams, Diya Patel, Sara Hayes Ridgeway and Sara Helen Simmons. Also receiving this honor were the following members of the Class of ‘24: Grayson Alexander, Jacob Bostic, Helen Fitzpatrick, Jennings Frerichs, Mary Margaret Griffin, Bella Grudzinski, Jeremiah Jones, Rhayne Owens and Mary Parish Williams.
Receiving the AP Scholar with Honor Award for earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on four or more exams were the following students: (Class of ‘26) Austin McLaurin, Olivia Russell and Banks Smith; (Class of ‘25) Abby Bradley, Annabelle Branham, Shawn Michael Matthews and Andrew Segars; and (Class of ‘24) Elizabeth Busch and Bennett Wilson.
The following students received the AP Scholar Award for earning a 3 or higher on at least three exams: (Class of ‘26) Andy Cseh, Andrew Howle, Logan Pauly, McClain Segars, Mary Ellen Thorne, Sanders Warrick and Bown Zitzke; (Class of ‘25) Thomas Creech, Frances Mac Elmore, Gavin Lamb, Akshar Patel and Camryn Wilmes; and (Class of ‘24) Dillon Bartlett, Olivia Beasley, Slade Custer, Landon Gilley, Dylan Jones, Clark Kinney, Davis Lee, Ben Reynolds, Maury Shuler, Victoria Singleton and Addison Thornton.