56 S G M A G A Z I N E | W I N T E R 2 0 1 7 - 2 0 1 8 School in 2000. “As an alumna and current member of the administration, I am proud of our history and the diligent leadership of those in our community that support our institution. I am excited to see what is in store for Valwood’s next 50 years.” Dover said seeing the pride that Valwood’s alumni have for their alma mater is overwhelming. “Over the past few years, Valwood has put a concerted focus on locating alumni and boosting the alumni programming,” she said. “We have seen an enormous increase in alumni pride and participation.” The 50th anniversary is a time to reminisce about the past and start new traditions, including the Athletic Hall of Fame and Alumni Athletic Reunion scheduled for March 10, 2018. The Valwood Parents Association (VPA) will host the 50th Anniversary Gala on April 14, 2018, at The Patterson in downtown Valdosta. According to Suzanne Tyrone, VPA president, the gala will feature live music and dancing, an auction, and a raffle sponsored by Steel’s Jewelry. “The purpose of the gala is to celebrate our 50th anniversary and serve as a fundraiser as well,” Tyrone said. “Our goal is to have as many alumni present as possible.” Valwood School’s Headmasters Mr. H. Ferrell Singleton 1969-1979 Mr. J. Albert Barrett 1979-1984 Mr. Wes Smith 1984-1985 Dr. Noel Carroll 1985-1986 Mr. John McRae 1986-1988 Mrs. Emily Shaw Anderson 1988-1997 Mr. Scott A. Wilson 1997-2003 Mr. J. Cobb Atkinson 2003-2010 Dr. Lee Cox (Interim) 2010-2011 Dr. Darren Pascavage 2011-2016 Dr. Nan Wodarz (Interim) 2016-2017 Mr. John L. Davis Sr. (2017-Present) Charlotte Blanton Thomas, class of 1974, Curry Thomas Anderson, class of 2002, and Brooker Anderson, current first grader, represent three generations of Valwood students. Headmaster John L. Davis Sr. takes time to read to John Henry Wetherington, a pre-kindergarten student at Valwood School.