Alexa Frandzel '12

While gazing upon the portraits of Aunty Cathryn, Uncle John, and John Thomas Dye III inside of John Dye Hall, I realize that I am part of a family, and this very special family has taught me so much more than just reading, writing, and arithmetic.  I have learned the importance of upholding traditions and honoring our founders' extraordinary visions.  I did not learn to simply memorize the 5C's, but rather, to incorporate them into the manner in which I navigate my way through life.  I learned that the spirit of competition is not about winning, but it is about putting my best foot forward and growing from the lessons that come from my experiences.  I have made mistakes and gone through some difficult and challenging times, but JTD has always given me the guidance and support needed to develop the confidence to hold my head high and feel proud of who I am.  There have been rare moments when I have had the opportunity to be alone in John Dye Hall, and it has been silent enough to hear a pin drop.  During one of those moments earlier this year, I sat listening to the crackling fireplace in the Inglenook while enjoying its warmth and rustic aroma, and I inhaled all that this spiritual moment offered me.  I thought about how unusual it was to be sitting there without the voices and laughter of children surrounding me, so I decided to dream about all of the children of the past who have been and who continue to be members of the JTD family.  In that moment, I realized that JTD is timeless.  Throughout the years, classrooms have been updated, buildings have been built, and technology has changed the world in more ways than we are even aware of today, but JTD has remained timeless because it has a soul.  Aunty Cathryn and Uncle John had a dream and a vision, and the traditions they started and exceptional leadership throughout the years have allowed their legacy to live on.  At JTD we know who we are and what we stand for, and we have known it for a very long time.  I feel both prideful and spiritual that the person I am today is an extension of the Dyes.  I am extremely grateful to have been a part of this incredible family, and I hope that JTD feels the same way about having had me as a member of their family.

 

As I am preparing to leave John Dye Hall and walk the brick path as a graduate, I realize that I am not leaving my beloved school and all that it has been for me behind.  Instead I will walk the brick path knowing that I am part of a family whose dreams, visions, values, and morals will be carried along within me for the rest of my life.  I would not be the person I am today without JTD, and John Thomas Dye is forever embedded in my heart and soul.