MIKE MACINTYRE '84
Head Football Coach, Florida International University
Throughout his career, Mike has received numerous accolades which are evidence of his outstanding achievements and contributions to college football. Notably, he was recognized as the Bobby Dodd National Coach of the Year, awarded to coaches whose teams excel on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.
Mike MacIntyre is deeply interested in the mission of Brentwood Academy and demonstrates a dedication to the institution that helped shape his path to success. Mike doesn’t shy away from his core Christian values in an industry known for limitless challenges and constant evolution. He is a true testament to the importance of integrity, perseverance, and commitment.
This Outstanding Alumni of the Year award reflects Mike's dedication to both Brentwood Academy and his professional endeavors and is a celebration of his accomplishments and the positive impact he has had on the lives of others.
MARY CRAIG TORTORICE '01
Development Director, The Covenant School
Mary Craig Tortorice’s background as a student and teacher at Brentwood Academy equipped her with the knowledge and experience necessary to excel in her current role at The Covenant School. The Outstanding Alumni of the Year award reflects Mary Craig’s faithful service and dedication to her students and The Covenant School’s mission. This was evidenced in her calm and thoughtful demeanor while she played a vital role during the critical and tragic situation at The Covenant School this past year.
Mary Craig demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility and care for her school community as she nurtures and challenges students in order to help them grow academically and personally. Mary Craig prioritizes her faith, a testament to her character and values. This commitment to faith has a positive impact on the school environment where she finds herself, creating a sense of community and moral guidance for both students and colleagues alike.
REAGAN HEATH '13
Metropolitan Nashville Police Officer
Reagan Heath '13 has an unwavering dedication to the Nashville community. His selfless service goes beyond the call of duty, demonstrating Christ-like love for the less fortunate. His commitment to the law, including but not limited to his academic achievements in the profession and his receipt of the prestigious Nashville Police Academy Law Award, reflect his dedication to the BA triangle philosophy which focuses on nurturing and challenging each whole person – body, mind, and spirit – to the glory of God.
Reagan’s achievements in academia, ranging from earning two bachelor's degrees to authoring a fantasy novel in his spare time, also highlight his exceptional abilities.
Reagan's humility and quiet dedication to his duty are qualities that set him apart. He serves with integrity and a deep commitment to his community. The Young Alumni of the Year award recognizes Reagan’s remarkable accomplishments.
SARAH-CATHERINE MARTIN '17
Student, Belmont University
Sarah-Catherine Martin consistently radiates joy and sets an example for those around her. She demonstrates excellence in her endeavors and stands as a shining example of strength and faith.
Earlier this year, Sarah-Catherine exhibited unwavering strength while navigating the sudden loss of her father. Her resilience and commitment to faith were truly inspiring, as she approached the loss with grace and focused on glorifying God through this experience. Despite her own mourning, she intentionally served and supported her friends and family, spreading positivity and love in a time of deep sorrow and need.
Brentwood Academy’s Young Alumni of the Year award recognizes Sarah-Catherine’s vibrant faith and her inspiration to other young alumni.
CARISSA PEREIRA
Community Volunteer
The honor of The Brentwood Academy Friend of the Year is awarded to Carissa Periera for her unparalleled dedication to the Brentwood Academy community. Carissa consistently demonstrates a servant's heart, tirelessly supporting those in need. Her commitment extends beyond typical expectations, as she hosts events, accommodates faculty or friends when needed, and inclusively reaches out to families even beyond the BA community. Carissa's selfless nature is evident in her unwavering support, as she rarely declines an opportunity to help others. Her loyalty as a BA parent, parent of alumni, and advocate shines through, making her a pivotal force behind the scenes. Carissa's profound impact is widely acknowledged, and her name resonates as a testament to her genuine advocacy and love for the school and its community.
LEIGH ANN WITT
Community Volunteer
Brentwood Academy parent, parent of an alum, and volunteer Leigh Ann Witt demonstrates her loyalty and support of BA through her significant volunteer efforts. In addition to the time she dedicates to numerous community and non-profit organizations, Leigh Ann has served on the Brentwood Academy Parents Association (BAPA) board for many years, successfully planning and managing the annual Barn Bash and auction, providing profound support to our school and faculty. In addition to the gift of her time, Leigh Ann and her family have given sacrificially to both the BA Fund and the Forward in Faith capital campaign. She truly desires to see Brentwood Academy succeed in its mission and ministry and demonstrates her love for both our school and our God through her actions.
RON AND KAYE KNOX FAMILY
The Ron and Kaye Knox Family are recognized with the Family of the Year Award for their unwavering commitment and contributions to the Brentwood Academy community. Ron and Kaye's extended family can claim an incredible 11 Brentwood Academy alumni! The Brentwood Academy community does, in many ways, seem to be an extension of the Knox family.
Kaye has supported BA since the school's founding, in fact, her younger sister Kathy was present on the first day of class in 1970. When Kaye's three children attended BA, she rarely missed an activity or school function. Ron's past trustee role, ongoing service on the Headmaster's Advisory Council, and generous donations showcase the family's dedication to advancing the ministry and mission of Brentwood Academy. As parents and grandparents of alumni, their familial ties extend across generations to three children and seven grandchildren.
Beyond their institutional support, the Knox family exemplifies strong faith, fostering a values-driven legacy. Their impact resonates not only through the many roles they have played at BA over the years but also through the interconnected bonds of family and faith, making them truly deserving of the honor of Family of the Year.
WILL '10 AND CHANDLER '10 BLALOCK FAMILY
Will and Chandler’s courage and perseverance after Will's sudden ATV accident in 2022 have inspired the entire BA community and others who love the Blalock family. Chandler and Will continue to encourage countless people who have followed their journey by demonstrating their faith while walking through a deep valley. Through daily blogs, Chandler sowed seeds of faith and connected a community of BA family members who prayed for and supported the young couple and their daughter, Ruth. Chandler shared her foundational faith not only in her posts but in person with others, including the medical staff who cared for and treated Will through his ongoing medical journey.
SCOTT AND AMY COLE FAMILY
The Cole family are true and loyal friends to Brentwood Academy and are therefore recognized with the Family of the Year award. Contributions of their time, talents, and treasure are gifted generously and always with a loving attitude. Through their kind, considerate, and humble actions, the Coles serve in many ways, both within and outside of our BA community.
Their family commitment to fostering newborns is a remarkable gift to so many babies and mothers in our community, loving the children as if they were one of their own and maintaining relationships with many long after their foster relationship has ended. In a similar manner, the Coles have stepped in to help many Brentwood Academy families. Does someone need a place to live? The Coles have room! Does someone need a place to host a BA or church gathering? The Coles will do it! Do the BA Dads need a grill for their meetings and events? The Coles will donate that! Their actions truly demonstrate the hands and feet of Jesus and that is why they are recognized as The Family of the Year.