The summer began with the arrival of a brand-new cohort of Foley Graduate Fellows, Julie Capone, Kendall Childs, Jorge Marquez, and Everett Najarian. Coming from different places and backgrounds, these four individuals all found themselves in the heart of Avon, ready to begin the next chapter of their journey at Walking Mountains. While they each brought unique experiences and perspectives, it didn’t take long for them to discover that they shared the same excitement for learning, teaching, and building community.
Their first impressions of one another reflected that shared purpose. Everyone immediately stood out as knowledgeable, passionate, and deeply intentional about creating meaningful experiences, not only for the students they would teach but also for one another. From the beginning, there was a sense that this would be a group eager to collaborate, support one another, and grow together over the next two years.
As with any new team, friendships developed gradually. One of the biggest surprises has been just how naturally everyone’s personalities fit together. Although this cohort initially came across as quiet or reserved, their shared sense of humor quickly emerged. Whether they’re teaching lessons or prepping programs, they find themselves feeding off each other’s energy, making teaching both collaborative and a lot more fun. Creativity has become one of the defining characteristics of the group, with ideas bouncing from one fellow to the next in ways that are playful, thoughtful, and anything but ordinary.
Every great team also needs a name, and this year’s cohort found theirs during a memorable evening together. Their first time hanging out outside of work took them on a sunset hike through the West Avon Preserve, with some ice cream from Sundae. As they walked, an unexpected sound echoed through the evening, a loud “boom” that reminded everyone of a race car. Curious, they looked around to find the source and soon spotted a nighthawk soaring overhead, diving dramatically through the sky and creating its signature booming sound. The bird seemed determined to put on a show, circling above them throughout the evening. It felt like one of those spontaneous, magical moments that only happen when you’re fully present in nature. Although they agreed on the name that night, they decided to wait and see if another experience would top it. Nothing did. The memory stuck, and so did the name, Nighthawks.
Since then, many of their favorite memories have happened outside of the classroom. Hiking together, spending evenings crafting, cooking meals together, and relaxing on the porch after a long day. Those shared experiences have created the trust and friendship that they carry over into their work each day.
Looking ahead, each fellow is excited for something a little different, but one theme rises above the rest: building a deeper connection to this place. As they settle into their fellowship, one thing is already clear; this cohort isn’t just learning alongside one another, they’re building a community. Through shared adventures, plenty of laughter, and a commitment to creativity, they’re laying the foundation for two years of growth, friendship, and unforgettable experiences.
Written by Maggie Roszko. Maggie Roszko is a Walking Mountains Foley Graduate Fellow and is excited to get to know the Night Hawks, cheer them on, and share lots of laughs as they begin their fellowship journey.
