Episcopal Knightly News

The PreK-4 Butterfly Parade: A Celebration of Early Childhood Learning

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

My Hopes and Dreams for this Year are:

To learn about turtles
To learn about animals. Really, rhinos.
To learn how to be a doctor
To learn about spider webs
To learn all the big kid things

Nobody says it quite like PreK-4 students, and recently, they showcased the growth they’ve experienced this school year with the annual PreK-4 Butterfly Parade. A year that began with a butterfly release nears the end after significant development for these now big kids.

The butterfly parade featured a slideshow highlighting the year, songs performed by students wearing handcrafted butterfly wings and a colorful display of artwork. Students also shared the “Becoming a Butterfly” book they created as a class, and in a nod to all they’ve learned, the little Knights took turns signing their names in each other’s copies.

Tremendous growth occurs in early childhood. Students develop social/emotional skills and learn to be at school through purposeful play inside and outside of the classroom. They also begin working on the foundations of learning that prepare them for a lifelong love of learning.

Congratulations on a great year, PreK-4! We can’t wait to see how far you soar.

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2025-2026 application is now available! For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at enrollment@ehsbr.org or 225-755-2685.

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Future Artists in the Making: Honoring Our College Bound Creatives

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

This year’s arts signing ceremony featured a spider, a house, flowers, lights, balloons, cakes and school-colored M&Ms. It was a fitting and creative setting to celebrate seven student artists as they announced their continued commitment to arts education.

Arts education is a key component of the Episcopal experience, beginning in PreK-3, and students in all divisions benefit from a range of arts opportunities that encourage creativity and expression. Each year, art faculty members are pleased to recognize students who will continue to develop their talents and explore the arts. This year’s group of students includes students who will major in and/or minor in an artistic field.

Please join us in congratulating this year’s senior student artists as they take the next step in their educational journey. Share a message with them in the comments section below.

Madison Paige Andrews
Hampton University
Minor: Fashion Design & Merchandising

Autumn Baldridge
Louisiana State University
Minor: Art History

Marshall Elliott
Ithaca College
Major: Musical Theatre

Colleen Newton
University of Richmond
Minor: Musical Theatre

Ella Palfi
Louisiana State University
Minor: Theatre/Film Acting

Annie Wilcox
Auburn University
Major: Interior Design
Minor: Music

John Harper Wilkinson
Loyola New Orleans
Double Major: Theatre/Voice

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College Announcements 4.24.26

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Adam Chittom
Louisiana State University
Major: General Business

Rece Davis
Wake Forest University
Major: Undecided

Maeve Dolan
Amherst College
Major: Psychology

Sammy Gadi
Louisiana State University
Major: Biology

John Hall
University of Arkansas
Major: Finance

Sofia Leo
Texas Christian University
Major: Marketing

Jeremy Mitchell
Loyola University New Orleans
Major: Entrepreneurship

Timothy Namikas
Princeton University
Major: Mechanical Engineering

Mattie Ray
Hollins University
Major: Psychology with a concentration in counseling

Maximo Santana
Texas A&M University
Major: Undecided

Braxton Stacy
University of Louisiana Lafayette
Major: Sports Science/Kinesiology

Grace Waguespack
Wake Forest University
Major: Biochemistry/Molecular Biology

Darren Weng
Cornell University
Major: Chemical Engineering

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College Announcements 4.17.26

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Regan Danos
University of Georgia
Major: Journalism, Concentration in Sports Media

David Dickerson
Texas Christian University
Major: Biology/Pre-Med

Porter Eglin
University of Mississippi
Major: Accounting

Marshall Elliott
Ithaca College
Major: Musical Theatre

Caroline Frey
Wofford College
Major: Biology/Philosophy

Will Garrett
Auburn University
Major: Civil Engineering

Aiden Grassmann
University of Florida
Major: Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience

Reece Hinton
Louisiana State University
Major: Business Accounting

Jacob Hutchinson Johnson
Trinity University
Major: Business

Kate Janney
University of Arkansas
Major: Biology/Pre-Med

Hope Johnson
Louisiana State University
Major: Bioscience/Pre-Med
Minor: Nutrition

Virginia Kirkpatrick
University of Georgia
Major: Public Health

Foster Lambert
Washington and Lee University
Major: Finance

Annabel Laugier
Louisiana State University
Major: Kinesiology

James McIlwain
Louisiana State University
Major: International Trade and Finance

Colleen Newton
University of Richmond
Major: Journalism

Laurel Roberts
University of Mississippi
Major: Public Health

Eloise Tharp
College of Charleston
Major: Undecided

Caroline Watson
Louisiana State University
Major: Chemical Engineering/Pre-Med

Annie Wilcox
Auburn University
Major: Interior Design

Oscar Worrell
Washington University in St. Louis
Major: Undecided

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Celebrating the Power of Arts Education through the Lindley Spaht Dodson Speaker Series

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

“Everything you learn here will stay with you forever.” Lisette Oropesa

International opera sensation Lisette Oropesa returned to Episcopal’s campus for the first time in 30 years as this year’s featured speaker in the Lindley Spaht Dodson Endowed Speaker Series. Oropesa, who has performed on stages around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera, Teatro alla Scala, Wiener Staatsoper, Opera National de Paris, and the Royal Opera House – Covent Garden, remembered the exact location where she sat as a fourth grader in the Episcopal Greer Center. With authentic enthusiasm, Oropesa discussed her years at Episcopal, how they shaped who she is today and how students should stay true to what brings them joy.

With attention to detail, Oropesa easily shared her story with students in all three divisions. In Lower School, she presented slides featuring relatable cartoon characters and was eager to answer a range of questions from the younger Knights. Later, with Middle and Upper School students, she offered a brief sample of her talent and provided encouragement on teenage topics such as belonging, leadership and the importance of giving to others. In a breakout session with aspiring Episcopal artists, Oropesa even led a vocal exercise demonstrating the difference between diffuse and focused sound. Common to each presentation was Oropesa's sense of gratitude for the career that allows her to travel the world doing what she loves. The world clearly loves her back as Oropesa has earned recognition as “Best Female Singer of the Year” from Oper! Magazine, the “Tranco Abbiail” Award from the National Music Critics Association of Italy and the merit of “Chevalier de L’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres” from the French Ministry of Culture.

The Formative Years

Oropesa attended Episcopal from fourth through seventh grade. In that time, she played the flute in the band and participated in choir. “I went to school right here, and this is where I learned to sing,” she advised Lower School students. She pointed out that her first real part on stage was as one of the seven children in an Episcopal production of “The Sound of Music.” Even now, she remembers her drama classmates as the group was once tasked with memorizing each other’s names in alphabetical order. As Oropesa recited the names, Lower School students and fellow drama classmate and current Lower School Religion Teacher Jenny Heroman Koenig ’01 were impressed with her skill. Oropesa noted that the memorization skills she developed here at Episcopal have served her well as a performer, helping her memorize lines and notes. After all this time, Oropesa also remembers the positive influence of teachers David Galasso, Paul Taranto, Lorren McGee Rhea and Tommy Rhea. She enjoyed a reunion with the educators that was years in the making.

Having Oropesa’s teachers and Lindley’s family present highlighted the sense of community and the celebration of the arts that the Lindley Spaht Dodson Speaker Series was intended to create. Like Oropesa, Lindley was active in Episcopal’s performing arts program and is remembered for her talent and passion. “The performing arts allowed her to find herself,” recalled her brother Holden Spaht ’92. He elaborated that he and his family will always remember Lindley’s smile and the way she inspired others to be their best.

The Power of Arts Education

Lindley and Oropesa are both extraordinary examples of the power of arts education. Generous with her time, Oropesa encouraged today’s students to keep learning, never be afraid to make a mistake and to hold tight to the things they love. She also emphasized that healthy habits last a lifetime and are important to every career and every life goal.

Regardless of where life takes today’s students, the Episcopal community supports them as they make the world a better place. The connections created here last a lifetime as the Lindley Spaht Dodson Speaker Series illustrates. Thank you to the Spaht family for supporting arts education and to Lisette Oropesa for taking the time to encourage the next generation of Knights.

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Foster Lambert to Run for Washington and Lee Next Year

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

“Episcopal has played a huge role in preparing me for this next step, and the support from my coaches, teachers, and teammates has pushed me to keep improving.” Foster Lambert ’26

Coaches, classmates, family and friends packed the Field House to celebrate Foster Lambert as he announced he’ll continue competing in track & field next year at Washington and Lee University. Foster, who has had tremendous success as a Knight in the 400m, 800m, 1600m and the 4X400 and 4X800 relays, looks forward to continuing his athletic career at the next level. “Washington and Lee is the right school for me because it fits everything I’m looking for both academically and athletically,” he says. “This opportunity means a lot to me because it reflects the work I’ve put in over the past four years. It gives me the chance to compete at the next level and continue pushing myself.”

A Leader Among Athletes

Foster has been involved in Episcopal track & field for three years and is also a member of the cross country and baseball teams. Foster’s coaches expressed their appreciation for his efforts during the signing announcement. Coach Claney Duplechin complimented Foster’s work ethic and determination, highlighting that Foster is driven to win and has broken numerous personal records. “He’s a tremendous athlete,” he told the signing day crowd. “He makes us look good.” Head Baseball Coach J.T. Blair is equally impressed with Foster’s commitment and ability to earn a starting position on the baseball team. He praised Foster for being a leader in communicating with coaches and teammates.

Foster says what he loves most about track & field is the competitiveness. “When you step on the line, it’s just you and your competition-there’s nothing to hide behind,” he says. “I also value the relationships I’ve built with teammates and athletes from other schools over the years. Being a team captain has also been one of the most meaningful parts of my experience, and it’s taught me a lot about leading by example.”

Stay Consistent, Push through the Challenges

After giving it his all in athletics and academics, Foster offers the following guidance for classmates with a similar goal. “My advice would be to stay consistent,” he says. “That’s what helped me get to where I am. There will be challenges, but learning how to push through mental blocks is just as important as the physical side.”

In addition to his athletic success, Foster has also participated in the ESTAAR program and was a member of the Mu Alpha Theta team. “I’m excited to continue growing at Washington and Lee, both in the classroom and on the track,” he says. At Washington and Lee, Foster plans to study finance.

Foster is sure to have a positive impact at Washington and Lee. Join us in congratulating him. Share a message in the comments section below.

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Zach Hu to Continue Baseball Career at Johns Hopkins University

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

“The combination of high-level athletics and rigorous academics is exactly what I have been working toward, and it puts me in an environment that will challenge and push me to grow.” Zach Hu ’26

There was a strong sense of gratitude as senior baseball player Zach Hu announced he’ll continue competing next year at Johns Hopkins University. Surrounded by family, coaches, teammates, alumni, and even his kindergarten buddy, Zach expressed his appreciation for everyone who helped him achieve his dream. “This opportunity means so much to me, and I recognize how fortunate I am to have it,” he says. “Being able to attend a world-class university like Johns Hopkins University, surrounded by talented and driven peers from around the world, is something I do not take for granted.”

A Linebacker’s Mentality

Zach has played baseball competitively since he was eight years old. In that time, he has impressed coaches with his athleticism and commitment to excellence. Head Coach J.T. Blair noted that Zach is always mentally and physically prepared and works hard every day. He praised Zach’s academic success, saying academics and life will take him far.

In addition to baseball, Zach has been the Knights' starting quarterback for three seasons. Offensive coordinator Wally Stevens complimented Zach for his passion and emotion. “He has the mentality of a middle linebacker trying to play quarterback,” he said. Head Football Coach Travis Bourgeois also thanked Zach for the leadership he’s shown on the field and outside of athletics.

Be Coachable, Stay Disciplined and Embrace Challenges

Given baseball's importance in his life, Zach looks forward to continuing his career at the next level. “What I love most about the game is the opportunity to compete and constantly improve,” he says. “Baseball challenges you in so many ways. It is both mentally and physically demanding, and there is always something to learn or refine. I enjoy the process of getting better every day, whether it’s working on my skills, understanding the game at a deeper level, or competing with and against talented players.”

In addition to baseball and football, Zach has been active in the Episcopal student community. He was part of the track team this season and is a member of Knights for Christ, the Business Club and the Asian Heritage Club. He is also the Episcopal Student Body President. He encourages classmates with athletic goals to work hard every day and take advantage of the resources available to them, especially those provided at Episcopal. “Consistent effort and a commitment to improving, even in small ways, really add up over time,” he says. “Be coachable, stay disciplined, and embrace the challenges that come with competing at a high level. Finally, surround yourself with the right people. Seek out mentors and listen to their guidance, especially older students who have already gone through the process.”

Zach is sure to serve as a positive example for future Knights. At Johns Hopkins, he plans to study Moral and Political Economy. Join us in congratulating him on this next step. Share a message with him in the comments section below.

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Alumni Weekend Celebrates Community Coast to Coast

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

The recent Episcopal Alumni Weekend proved that community connects us all regardless of geography. To celebrate the strength of the Episcopal community, alumni weekend organizers hosted events in Baton Rouge and across the country. “So many of our alumni go on to do amazing things outside of Baton Rouge, and we want to celebrate that,” says Alumni Relations Coordinator Lindsay Turner ’97. “This year’s format allowed us to meet alumni where they are. We really want our alumni to feel that Episcopal cares about what they are doing, whether they are right here in our neighborhood or miles away.”

In addition to the Baton Rouge festivities, alumni participated in Athens, GA; New York City; Los Angeles; and New Orleans. Locally, members of the classes of 1980, 1981, 1982 and 1996 celebrated their reunions. Turner hopes to see this new alumni weekend format expand in the future. “We are excited to see this community Knight format grow and add more cities across the world,” she says. “Whether you get together to go for a run with two people or have a large crowd gather for a fun Knight Out we want to celebrate the connections Episcopal creates right here on this campus and for years to come - no matter your location.”

Los Angeles alumni

New York alumni

Athens alumni

New Orleans alumni

Don’t miss future alumni activities. Stay connected to Episcopal by updating your contact information here or show your school pride by purchasing our new alumni t-shirt. There are also numerous ways to get involved with your alma mater. Learn more about those opportunities here.

If you are interested in hosting a community Knight in conjunction with next year’s Alumni Weekend, contact Lindsay Turner at turnerl@ehsbr.org to ensure you have all the details for the 2027 Alumni Weekend.

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Student Success 4.2.26

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Episcopal students are accomplishing outstanding things! Join us in celebrating success and look for more success articles in the future.

2026 Mu Alpha Theta State Convention Results

Episcopal placed 4th overall at the Louisiana Mu Alpha Theta State Convention held March 26th – March 28th in Baton Rouge. Episcopal brought 53 students that competed against 823 students from 30 schools across Louisiana.

Individual Test Awards:

Theta Algebra – 5th – Dafi Weng, 21st – Christian Tucker

Alpha Precalculus – 3rd Evan Sanders

Mu B – 6th Nate McLean, 8th Darren Weng, 11th Maximo Santana, 12th Autumn Baldridge, 14th – Timothy Namikas

Area Test Awards:

Theta Geometry – 6th Kyra Chilekar, 11th Callie Ghere

Alpha Trigonometry – 2nd Leo Abraham, 8th Lila Awad

Mu B – 1st Darren Weng, 3rd Maximo Santana, 15th Michael Zhang

Potpourri – 4th Nate McLean

Game/Team Awards:

Descartes Alpha – 2nd Tarik Avci

Mu B Gemini – 3rd Timothy Namikas and Airi Homma

Hustle – 1st Dafi Weng, Evan Sanders, Autumn Baldridge, and Leia Weng

Theta Math Bowl – 4th Nneoma Mbagwu, Rowen Berry, Lee Busekist, and Christian Tucker

Mu A Math Bowl – 3rd Jordan Harvey, Andrew Richard, Jack McConnell, and Oscar Fenske

Overall School Awards:

5th Theta Interschool

6th Alpha Interschool

2nd Mu Interschool

2nd T-shirt design

3rd Banner Design

4th Sweepstakes

Middle School MATHCOUNTS

Congratulations to the Middle School MATHCOUNTS team who earned fifth overall in the state! In addition, seventh grader Sylvia Weng will represent Louisiana at the national competition after finishing fourth in the individual and second in the countdown rounds.

Team Members:

Sylvia Weng
Akari Koyama
August Cloud
Matthew Zhang

Middle School Youth Legislature Success

The following students were inducted into the Youth Legislature Hall of Fame:

David Dampf
Peter Doherty
Juliette Haynie
Ava Rowe
Zane Froelich

Congratulations to the following students for successfully passing bills:

Banning Breed Specific Dog Slaughtering by Ava Rowe and Kate Reeves
Homeless Shelter Bill by Eric Hyde and Peter Doherty

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Frozen Adventures & French Connections: Episcopal Students Explore Quebec

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

A group of Episcopal explorers braved the Quebec winter for a French-Canadian immersion experience filled with adventures not seen on the Gulf Coast. Students bundled up for sledding and ice skating and even dined in a frozen restaurant. The trip was also intentionally packed with learning opportunities, with students exploring the area’s culture, history and language through hands-on experiences, guided visits and real-world interactions. Overall, the trip reinforced classroom learning and promoted global awareness.

Eighth grader Avery Yale says she learned a lot about the culture of Quebec and Montreal. “I am studying French right now and it did help me when we would order something to eat or meet new people and be able to talk to them and understand what they were saying,” she says. Avery says her favorite part of the experience was ice skating in Quebec City and experiencing the beauty of the region.

Middle School Counselor Katie Carpenter and French teacher Isabella Runge served as chaperones and also appreciated the opportunity to dive deeper into another culture. “It was a fabulous trip,” says Carpenter with her signature enthusiasm. Runge was pleased to offer students the opportunity to practice their French skills. “I really enjoyed seeing the students interacting with the community in Quebec, understanding what was being said, and becoming more confident in using the language,” she says. “Watching them make new friends, step outside their comfort zones, and genuinely engage with the culture was incredibly rewarding. I was especially proud to see how they supported one another, asked thoughtful questions, and showed curiosity and respect throughout the trip. The experience helped them grow not only linguistically, but also socially and personally.”

Prioritizing Global Learning

Preparing students for purposeful lives in a changing global world is a strategy in Episcopal’s strategic plan to continue to lead, innovate and develop exceptional educational programming. International travel at Episcopal reflects that commitment to global education and experiential learning that fosters curiosity, empathy and a broader sense of responsibility in an interconnected world. Travel experiences are intentionally designed to promote learning and self-reflection in meaningful ways.

Learn more about Global Studies and travel opportunities here.