Singkhonket Wins First Place in State Art Show
Wilson Hall is proud to celebrate student creativity and talent, highlighted by Liz Singkhonket’s first-place finish in ceramics at the S.C. Independent School Assoc. State Art Fair and a total of 13 ribbons earned across multiple visual art categories. With 24 performing and visual arts classes offered, the arts remain a vital part of the curriculum, giving students meaningful opportunities to explore, create, and develop their unique talents as part of a well-rounded education. The art teachers are Mrs. Tara Breslin-Schumacher, Mrs. Rachel Brown, and Mrs. Renee Norton.
January Issue of the School Magazine, The Accolade
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Read about all the good things happening at Wilson Hall in the January issue of the school's magazine, The Accolade.
AP Honor Roll Platinum School
The College Board recognized Wilson Hall as a 2025 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 2026 exceeded the criteria to receive this high distinction: 87% of the graduating cohort have already taken at least one AP exam during high school (80% required), 69% of the graduating cohort scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam during high school (50% required), and 44% 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, 99 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 81%, above the average passing rate of 67%. There were a record 123 Wilson Hall students who took a total of 282 exams. Mrs. Susan Barfield, Director of Academics, coordinates the school’s AP program.
Lower School Shares Christmas Care with Croswell Home
The Lower School strengthened its partnership with the Croswell Home for Children this year by rallying together to support all 22 children in the home. With donations collected by each class, students helped provide new bedding, laundry hampers, towels, hygiene items, and Walmart gift cards to meet essential needs. The project was coordinated by the PTO, whose efforts helped ensure a meaningful and generous Christmas outreach.
Guiding with Purpose: Dr. Lowder Leads Second Session of Parent Series
We welcomed Dr. Milt Lowder ’90 for the second installment of our three-part Parent Series, offering families an evening of encouragement, practical wisdom, and faith-filled guidance. Dr. Lowder, a sport psychologist for the Clemson Athletic Department and a licensed counseling psychologist with AMPLOS, brings decades of experience helping individuals, teams, and organizations maximize their potential. His work is grounded in a practice committed to developing healthy mindsets, strong relationships, and intentional leadership.
The Parent Series invites families to embrace the calling to be the parent God intended, and Dr. Lowder shared Biblically grounded, scientifically supported strategies to help parents lead with clarity and confidence. He focused on “change the lens” using Romans 12:2 as a scriptural basis to shepherd children into who God intended them to be. The final session of the Parent Series will take place on February 2nd, and we look forward to welcoming families back for another meaningful evening.
Chess 4th in State; Sets Participation Record
Placing fourth out of 30 teams, the Chess Club proudly represented Wilson Hall at the S.C. Independent School Assoc. State Chess Tournament, also setting a SCISA record by bringing the largest team ever with 30 competitors. One of the most popular clubs on campus, the group is led by Mr. David Tuders and reflects Wilson Hall’s commitment to offering diverse activities where students can challenge themselves, build camaraderie, and pursue their interests beyond the classroom.
Naylor and Zitzke Elected Mr. & Miss Wilson Hall
Chosen by their classmates from a faculty-nominated slate, Harris Naylor & Bowen Zitzke earned one of Wilson Hall’s highest honors, Mr. & Miss Wilson Hall, recognizing above-average academics, meaningful involvement in athletics or extracurriculars, outstanding citizenship, and exemplary character. Underclass honorees were Mr. & Miss Junior: Griffin Jones & Caroline Moorman, Mr. & Miss Sophomore: Eashan Patel & Lilly Grace Przybyla, and Mr. & Miss Freshman: Samuel Brown & Emmie Williamson.
McLaurin & Zitzke Named Most Likely to Succeed
Congratulations to Austin McLaurin & Bowen Zitzke, elected by their classmates as Most Likely to Succeed in the Senior Superlatives. Additional honors include Most Athletic – Ella Sill & Ford Wilder; Most Dependable – Anna VanPatten & Walker Wilson; Friendliest – Paige Sanders & Stirling Tindal; Most Intelligent – Mary Ellen Thorne & Banks Smith; Most School Spirit – Olivia Russell & Bryce Hanson; Most Talented – Sanders Warrick & Harris Naylor; and Wittiest – Adalin Brown & Benson Elmore. These students were chosen by their peers for exemplifying the qualities that make the Class of 2026 shine.
Wilson Hall Earns Top State Rankings
Rising to the top in statewide recognition, Wilson Hall was named by Niche as the #10 Best College Prep Private High School in South Carolina in its 2026 rankings. The school also placed #14 Best High School for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), public or private, and claimed the title of #1 Best High Schools for Athletes in Sumter County. These distinctions are based on a rigorous analysis of data from the U.S. Department of Education, Niche users, and schools, along with student and parent reviews.
Russell Earns National Merit Commended Student Honor
We are proud to celebrate Olivia Russell ‘26 for being named a Commended Student in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program! Out of more than 1.3 million students nationwide who entered by taking the PSAT, Olivia placed among the top three percent. This impressive accomplishment highlights her hard work and academic talent. She joins about 34,000 students across the country being recognized for their outstanding potential, and this honor is a wonderful reflection of her dedication and achievement.
Palmetto Association of Independent Schools
Wilson Hall is now a proud member of the Palmetto Association of Independent Schools (PAIS). Joining PAIS allows us to further strengthen our commitment to excellence in academics and professional growth across the network of excellent independent schools in South Carolina. This new partnership is a wonderful complement to our longstanding membership with the South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA), which continues to enrich our students’ experience through athletics and student activities. Together, these affiliations reflect our dedication to providing Wilson Hall students with the very best opportunities, both in and out of the classroom.
Parent Series Launches with Dr. Milt Lowder
Wilson Hall welcomed Dr. Milt Lowder ’90 for the first session of the new Parent Series, a three-part program designed to inspire and equip families. He spoke on the powerful topic, “God is not going to ask whether or not your children liked you!” This parenting series encouraged parents to embrace the calling to be the parent God intended. Dr. Lowder shared Biblically grounded, scientifically supported strategies to help parents lead with confidence and clarity. Rather than striving to be their child’s friend, the class guided participants in teaching obedience to God and creating a game plan to shepherd their children into the people God created them to be. Dr. Lowder, a sport psychologist for the Clemson Athletic Department and a licensed counseling psychologist with AMPLOS, brought his expertise from a practice dedicated to helping individuals, teams, and organizations maximize their potential. Please stay tuned for information about his next visit to our campus for the Parent Series.
Building Wilson Hall’s New Archive
As Wilson Hall looks ahead to its 60th anniversary next year, new volunteer school archivists, Mrs. Meg Creech and Mrs. Katherine Williams, are helping preserve the school’s story. They are thoughtfully organizing and collecting treasured artifacts in the Archival Room of the Moulton Center, from publications and handbooks to newspaper clippings and memorabilia that capture decades of Baron history. Alumni and friends of the school are invited to share items, which may be dropped off at the main office or mailed to 520 Wilson Hall Road, Sumter, SC 29150.
58 Advanced Placement Scholars
Because of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement (AP) Exams, 58 students received recognition from the College Board. About 20 percent of students nationwide who took AP Exams performed at a sufficiently high level to earn an AP Scholar Award. In May, 99 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 81%, above the average passing rate of 67%. There was a record 123 Wilson Hall students who took a total of 282 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, Andy Cseh, Frances Mac Elmore, Josie Jackson, Shawn Michael Matthews, Jane McAdams, Diya Patel, Sara Hayes Ridgeway, Andrew Segars, Sara Helen Simmons and Camryn Wilmes. The following members of the Class of ‘26 received this honor: Cliff Bath, Austin McLaurin, Logan Pauly, Olivia Russell, Banks Smith, Mary Ellen Thorne and Sander Warrick. Andrew Brunk ‘27 also received this recognition.
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 ‘25) Annabelle Branham; (Class of ‘26) Muskaan Judge, Sophie MIller, Ella Sill, Michael Thorne, Stirling Tindal and Bowen Zitzke; (Class of ‘27) Abel Ayres.
The following students received the AP Scholar Award for earning a 3 or higher on at least three exams: (Class of ‘25) Abby Bradley, Lottie Bynum, Olivia Cogswell, Anna Kate Coker, Thomas Creech, Emma Howle, Molly Jones, Gavin Lamb, Michael Lauzon, Emily Mason, Alex Mut, Akshar Patel, Sydney Rinkleff, Logan Schumacher, Sophie Sweatman, Kadence Tuders and Michael Warrick; (Class of ‘26) Ella Dixon, Edna Lee Harris, Andrew Howle, Sam Leard, Ben Rabon, Joey Robertson, Carlisle Segars, McClain Segars and Liz Singkhonket: (Class of ‘27) Torien Byrd, Jose Diaz and Caroline Moorman.
Wilson Hall offers 22 AP classes, more than any school in the region, in the following academic disciplines: Arts, English, History & Social Sciences, Math & Computer Science, Sciences, and World Languages & Cultures. The classes are taught at the college-level by specially trained faculty. Mrs. Susan Barfield, Director of Academics, coordinates the AP program.
Fourteen AP Capstone Diploma Recipients
Because of their exceptional performance in the College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program, 14 students received the AP Capstone Diploma. Wilson Hall 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.
We congratulate the following students for achieving this honor: (Class of ‘25) Sarah-Jane Bates, Abby Bradley, Annabelle Branham, Andy Cseh, Frances Mac Elmore, Sara Hayes Ridgeway and Camryn Wilmes; (Class of ‘26) Austin McLaurin, Logan Pauly, Olivia Russell, Banks Smith, Mary Ellen Thorne, Sanders Warrick and Bowen Zitzke.
Six students received the AP Seminar and Research Certificate, which is granted to students who earn scores of 3 or higher in both AP Research and AP Seminar: Ella Dixon, Andrew Howle, Muskaan Judge, Sophie Miller, McClain Segars and Michael Thorne, Class of ‘26.
Rather than teaching subject-specific content, the AP Research and Seminar courses develop students’ skills in research, analysis, evidence-based arguments, collaboration, writing, and presenting. Both courses guide students through completing a research project, writing an academic paper, and making a presentation on their project. Students who complete the two-year program can earn one of two different AP Capstone awards (diploma or certificate) which are valued by colleges across the United States and around the world.
The College Board developed the AP Capstone Diploma program at the request of higher education professionals who saw a need for a systematic way for high school students to begin mastering these skills before college. Only 38 schools in South Carolina offer the program and Wilson Hall is one of only five private schools in the state to offer it.
59th School Year Opens with Record Enrollment
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Welcoming a record enrollment of 857 students, WH kicked off the first day of school for 1st-12th in grand style. Colorful balloon arches and cheerful signs set the scene as faculty members served as smiling greeters, making students feel right at home whether they were buzzing with excitement or battling a few first-day jitters. Parents & faculty enjoyed a morning pick-me-up from the Roast n’ Roll Coffee Truck, while students capped off their day with sweet after-school treats from SweetFrog Frozen Yogurt & Kona Ice. It was a joyful start to the school’s 59th school year guided by our vision that every student will be known, loved, challenged & safe.
Starting Strong: Assembly Inspires Integrity and Growth
With tradition and school spirit filling the air, 6th-12th grade students & faculty gathered for the first assembly of the year, standing to honor the members of the Class of ’27 as they processed into the gym. Senior Class Pres. Bowen Zitzke opened the program with a heartfelt prayer, followed by Student Body Pres. Walker Wilson who warmly welcomed everyone back to campus. Head of School Mr. Brent Kaneft then addressed the students, offering words of encouragement and challenging them to live out the school’s motto, Diligence and Integrity. He emphasized that challenges should be seen as opportunities to improve and that how we respond to them ultimately shapes our growth.
Barons at Top Colleges Nationwide
Alumni are attending 82 different colleges and universities across the country for the 2025–26 school year, representing a wide range of academic interests and career goals. From engineering and the arts to education and the sciences, Barons are pursuing undergraduate degrees in nearly every discipline. Many are also continuing their education through graduate studies in fields such as business, law, and medicine. Their paths reflect a commitment to excellence and a strong foundation built at Wilson Hall. Follow this link for the complete list of schools.
Opportunity Awaits: College Acceptances for Every Graduate
Every member of the Class of ’25 gained acceptance to a four-year college or university, a testament to their hard work, determination, and academic preparation. The 52 graduates received offers of admission to 57 colleges and universities spanning 15 states and Washington, D.C., showcasing the broad appeal and reach of a Wilson Hall education. From large public universities to prestigious private institutions, the Class of ’25 earned opportunities across a wide range of schools, reflecting diverse interests, talents, and aspirations.
Eighteen Selected for Boys & Girls State Leadership Program
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.
Jackson Valedictorian, Simmons Salutatorian
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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.
Matthews Presented Wilson Award
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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.
Jackson & Simmons Receive Nash Award
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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.
Duke Receives Lee Character Award
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.
Castro Receives Reynolds Award
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.
Sill Receives Unsworth Award for Leadership and Excellence
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
Bartlett Receives DuBose Award
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.
Smith Receives Brabham Award; Selects Brown as Honored Teacher
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.
Williams Receives Chappell Award for Excellence in U.S. History
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.
Elmore Presented Smith Award for Outstanding Service
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.
Patel Star Student/Matthews Star Teacher
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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.
Mason Receives Moersen Award for Service
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.
Five Inducted into Veritas in Unitate Society
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.
Bradley Receives Prestigious SCISA Watt Award for Academic Excellence & Service
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.
CPR Skills Learned in Class Save a Life
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.
Cseh & Newman Featured in The Sumter Item's Next Generation
Andy Cseh and Kadence Newman are featured in The Sumter Item's Next Generation. Please click on this link to read the full article.
Chalking the Future: Class of ’25 Celebrates Decision Day
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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.
Wilson Hall Voted Best of Sumter
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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.
Campus Expansion News
Big news! Wilson Hall is expanding with the acquisition of new property—exciting growth ahead! Please watch the video for more information: Video
WH Honored as Purple Star School During Month of the Military Child
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.
Honor Marshals Recognized
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.
Jackson Wins Good Citizen Award
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.