The Arrow Fall 2022

as President to this day. In reflecting with Ed about his time on The Hill, two things are clear. He is genuinely humble about his own contributions to the life of the school, and he continuously and effusively praises those who have come after him. He cheers for Oak Hill. He encourages those who serve here today. He continues to love the students who come here from around the world each year. And even in retirement, he remembers those who lived on The Hill while he was working here. And they remember him too. Ed took a big step and joined Facebook at the age of 84, and quickly connected with the Oak Hill Alumni group. It seems daily there are new posts in that group that mention the influence that Ed and Carolyn Patton had while serving at Oak Hill. Each account is personal and memorable, and each reflects the heart of service that Ed Patton showed for his students during his tenure on The Hill. During the summer Alumni Reunion in July of 2022, dozens of former students volunteered stories of his influence on their lives. These alums, many now parents and grandparents themselves, recounted story after story of how Ed and Carolyn Patton gave them a chance, took them in, steered them straight, helped them, mentored them, and cared for them. Several of these students recounted with tears what the Pattons meant and still mean to them. Many mention how he changed their lives and showed them the way. And they seek him out when they return to campus. This summer, a large group gathered at his home after the on-campus portion of our celebration, and just visited with the Pattons. This is what families do. And Ed and Carolyn Patton will remain part of the Oak Hill Academy family for generations to come.

boys’ dorm on campus, was completed in 1991 following the unfortunate loss of Hash Hall. The Gold Team won its first national title in 1993, and student uniforms were required first in 1994. In 1998 Noonkester Park was dedicated. Its trails, lake and pavilion remain among the most popular recreation facilities on campus and are used nearly daily by our students and staff for boating, swimming, and social gatherings. In 2000, a modern science wing was added to the English Academic Building, today housing our two most attractive classrooms. No doubt Ed Patton’s leadership positively changed the fabric of Oak Hill Academy. But beyond his strategic institutional thinking, he was among the most influential mentors to ever serve in this community. After 34 years on The Hill his legacy among those who know him--both students and colleagues--is iconic. The influence that he and his wife Carolyn had on thousands of young people can’t be understated. But even among those who worked with him and for him, his inspiration resonates to this day. One current staff member, who was originally hired by Dr. Patton, recently described him as the “person I turn to for wise counsel, a good laugh, or to share a story. I trust him and love him.” Ed and Carolyn are still active in the local community, and Ed serves as the current chairperson for the deacon body at Young’s Chapel Baptist Church. In 2002, Ed and Carolyn Patton retired from service at Oak Hill Academy, handing the leadership of the school to Dr. Michael Groves, who continues to serve

Ed Patton and Ron Dunbar greet students at Halloween Party, 1972-73