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The Hollenbeck "Children"

Over the years we have had many wonderful Davidson College International Students in our home. Officially, we have been "host parents" to many fantastic students who let us be their home-away-from-home parents for a year, or more. Thirteen of the students were one-year students from either the University of Wurzburg, in Germany, or the University of Tours, in France. Four students, (one from Ireland, one from Nigeria/Germany, one from Botswana, and one from China/Jamaica) were in our home for several years and drew us closer to Davidson College and Davidson's Division I basketball team. It is hard to keep up with all of our "children", but here is an update on a few of them from us as we go off to "herd up some more".

Click or Double click the pictures below to enlarge.

. . . . . . Zeynep - 1998 . . . . . . . Zeynep's Mother & Father - '98. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zeynep with Jerry & Gwyn - '99

Guli (Zeynep's Sister), Gwyn & Zeynep - '01 . . . . Zeynep, Cihan, and Guli (April 2005) . . . . . Zeynep, Ufuk, Carrie, Guli, Mother

. . . . . . . . Sirin (born June 2007) and Cihan (born March 2005) . . . . . . . . . . . . Sirin & Cihan 2009

On our 2012 trip to Europe we got to spend an afternoon with our very first "host child" Zeynep! She prepared a fabulas lunch for us and we got to spend some time with Cichan & Sirin. We were so busy visiting and talking, we weren't taking pictures. Unfortunately the children went off to play with friends before I thought to pick up my camera :-( With Gwyn's accident, she wasen't crazy about being in pictures anyway! Another "downer" was that Ufuk was out of town on business. Zeynep also has two very interesting cats, one shown above!

Zeynep Erkeneken from Wurzburg, Germany (Host Student 96/97).

May 2012 - We had a great visit with Zeynep and her children. Two dissappointing things; (1) Ufuk was out of town, and (2) the time was way too short!
June 2007 - Zeynep and Ufuk now have a daughter, Sirin. We have not had an opportnity to meet her, but hope to someday soon.
In March of 2005 Zeynep and her husband Ufuk brought us our first "grandchild" Cihan Yakub Sen a beautiful healthy boy! How fitting that our first host child should give us our first grandchild!!!
April 2004 - Gwyn got to spend time with Zeynep and her wonderful husband, Ufuk while in Wurzburg--in fact, the flat she stayed in while there, was just a couple of blocks from her!! She also got to see Guli and Zeynep's mother. Her father was too ill to visit, but he sent his regards.
July 2002 - When we last talked with Zeynep she told us she is currently working for a large consulting firm in Frankfurt.
In Sept. 2001 Gwyn & Jerry made a surprise (E-Saver) visit to Germany and got to spend and afternoon with Zeynep and her sister. They took us to a fantastic Italian restaurant for dinner. Zeynep has finished her studies and is looking for full-time employment in her field.
In Oct. 2000, Jerry got to see Zeynep and her sister Guli a couple of times. Zeynep is doing well, has met a young man that has attracted her interest. Zeynep is working on her thesis, and hopes to complete her studies (Masters) by the first of 2001.
In Nov. 1999 we got the chance (USAir E-Saver) to return to Wurzburg for a quick visit. Zeynep's family was again kind enough to share a delicious meal with us.
Sept. 1998 - We visited with Zeynep, and had dinner with her family when we were in Germany in September of 98. Although we had not stayed in real close contact (about every three months), it was wonderful to see those beautiful brown eyes again. Her younger sister looks just like her. They get their beauty from their wonderful parents whom we really enjoyed meeting. The first picture was taken in the Residence Platz garden in Wurzburg. We lived two blocks from this location when we lived in Wurzburg in 1974. Zeynep continues her studies at the University in Wurzburg. In talking with our new host daughter for 1999-2000 we found that she and Zeynep went to high school together.

Johannes 5/98 . . . . . . . . Andrea and Johannes - 10/2000

Andrea and Johannes in August of 2006 when they came for a visit

Anastasia (born September 2008) hardly a handfull (now) but already a Davidson fan! and in 2009.

On our 2012 trip it looked like Gwyn was competing with Anastasia on the face art. The only problem was Gwyn's was real, whereas Anastasia could wash hers off! Their lovely home is on the edge of a vineyard and they have a great flat for guests!

Johannes Staab from Heigenbrucken, Germany (Host Student 97/98).

May 2012 - We were able to spend several nights with Johannes, Andrea, and Anastasia. Great fun visiting old places in Wurzburg and seeing some new places.
September 2008 - Johannes and Andrea gave us another grandchild--Anastasia. She is beautiful and hopefully we will meet her soon!!
August 2006 - Johannes and Andrea spent a week with us while they were visiting the U.S. We took a day trip to the mountains and had a wonderful time. The weather was much better this trip!
August 2004 - Johannes and Andrea were able to come to the U.S. for almost a month, and spent a week catching up with us. Since they got engaged in Blowing Rock, NC, they enjoy going back to this special place. We took a trip to the mountains and did not let the rainy weather spoil the day.
April 2004 - Gwyn & Debbie had a wonderful visit with Johannes and Andrea on their visit to Germany. They have a beautiful home in Wurzburg. Johannes is enjoying teaching and Andrea still manages her father's law firm. They plan to visit to the U.S. in August and we will get to visit!!
December 2001 - Johannes and Andrea spent two weeks with us at Christmas. Johannes has completed his Master's Degree and is now out in the working world teaching and Andrea manages her father's law firm.
Sept. 2001 - Our visit to Germany on such short notice really caught Johannes and Andrea by surprise. We did catch up with them for lunch one day and were able to spend the afternoon walking the streets and gardens of Wurzburg with them.
Oct. 2000 - Jerry spent several days with Johannes and Andrea. They are doing great. Andrea continues to manage her father's law practice, and Johannes hopes to complete his Masters degree in early 2001. He is also teaching English on Saturdays in a town near Wurzburg.
During our November '99 visit we got to see the beautiful flat that Johannes and Andrea share in Wurzburg. We were treated to an afternoon tea prepared by Andrea, and then had a delightful walk in the vineyards adjacent to their property.
10/23/99--Johannes, Andrea, and Heiko did in fact come to visit in September. We had a great visit to the North Carolina mountains (Grandfather Mountain), and even took in a Knights baseball game. A great time with a great group of friends, - - unfortunately, the visit was way too short. Johannes and Andrea are (were) scheduled to move into a flat in Wurzburg mid October, but we have not had an update recently!!! Johannes has one more year at the University.
6/23/99--What a coincidence we were working on this web page, the phone rang and it was Johannes!! He and Andrea and Heiko (one of their friends) are planning a trip to the U.S. in September. He called to say he received the travel information we sent him. All are excited about the upcoming reunion.
Johannes lives at home and he has an apartment in Wurzburg, where he continues to study at the University in Wurzburg. When we were in Germany in the summer of '98 his family and friends made us feel right at home in their beautiful small town. We really enjoyed meeting his family - a wonderful group.

. .. . . .Celine 5/98 - - and - - 10/2002 (in Boulder City, Nevada with Gwyn and Pierre Bonnat) - - Second Row is in 2006 in Las Vegas (with Vanille = the Yorkshire Terrier).

Our 2012 trip also took us to Switzerland, as Celine, Pierre, and Eloise live right on the Swiss French border. We were able to spend several days with them and one day when Celine and Pierre were working, their au pair, Lindsey, showed us around Geneve. The day was extra special because we got to spend so much time with Eloise. Another day Gwyn & I drove to Shamonix and had lunch in the restaurant where Myriam's (2006/07 French host daughter) sister is a chef. What a small world we live in! Unfortunately, the gondolas were not running so we could not go to the top of Mt. Blanc.

Celine Vignal from Chambord, France (Host Student 97/98).

May 2012 - We spent several busy days with Celine, Pierre, and Eloise filled with fun and adventure.
September 2008 -Gwyn got to spend great time with Celine when Gwyn visited our niece Carrie in Las Vegas. Pierre was in Paris on business and Carrie's husband, Mark was working long hours, so there was LOTS of "girl time" with Celine and Carrie.
October 2006 - Celine and Pierre are living in Henderson, NV (on the fringe of Las Vegas) continuing to build their business. They live five minutes from our niece and nephew, Carrie and Mark, and have gotten to know each other and dog sit for each other.
April 2005 - Life is interesting for Celine!! She and Pierre are still in Vegas and their business is thriving!! Jerry & Gwyn went to visit Carrie and Mark and, of course, spend some time with Celine and Pierre! It was too short a visit, however, and we are begging Celine to bring Pierre to Davidson for a visit!!
October 2002 - Gwyn finally got to see Celine (after 4 long years) and meet her business partner and close friend, Pierre Bonnat. They are living 30 minutes outside Las Vegas, in Boulder City, building a new company. Celine is as pretty as ever and Gwyn really liked Pierre - a great looking couple.
We have not had an opportunity to see our sweet "French daughter" since our visit in '98, however, we do keep in touch via E-Mail, and continue to hope for a visit from she and Pierre. They were in the US last year, but unfortunately the wrong coast - San Francisco.
10/23/99--A recent E-Mail said Celine may be moving to New York, NY to expand the music business with Pierre. We are keeping our fingers crossed!
Celine is back in France and was a perfect guide and entertainer when we spent a week with her and her family in October of '98. We had met her parents and sister when they visited the US. Her family treated us like royalty and we really enjoyed renewing our friendship. Celine is currently living in Macon, France (in the southern region - Burgundy region) where she is working for a music company. Her current job may bring her to the US on occasion - and we hope to the East Coast!

. . . . . . Markus 5/98 . . . and 10/2000 . . . . . Markus & Gwyn 9/2001

..Jerry, Gwyn and Markus 9/2001 . . . . . . In July of 2006 Markus & Tomoka Came to Visit

So much fun getting to know Tomoko!

. . . . . . . . . . . . .. .Pictures from September 2007 of Tomoko, Markus and Claudius

In April of 2011 Markus, Tomoko, Claudius and Aurelius came for a visit. We spent time in Davidson and the mountains!

There were two main events that prompted this fantastic 2012 trip! One was the christening of Markus' and Tomoko's second son, Aurelius! We spent several days in Niederstetten reuniting with Markus' parents (Siegrid & Friedemann), meeting Tomoko's parents and friends. Tomoko was absolutely stunning in her kimono, and the boys were precious in their lederhosen. Another bonus of the trip was getting to see Nicole and Michael and their son Louis. Naturally we got to see a number of Markus' old friends that we have gotten to know over the years!

Markus Kraemer from Niederstetten, Germany (Host Student 97/98).

May 2012 - An absolutely fabulas visit with special people that have become very dear to us!
April 2011 - Markus, Tomoko, Claudius and Aurelius came for a visit. We spent time both in Davidson and in the mountains.
September 2007 - Gwyn & Jerry visited Munich to meet our new grandson, Claudius. We spent a wonderful holiday with Markus and Tomoko and took a side trip with them to Reith, Austria (which was the first trip we took when we were stationed in Wurzburg 34 years ago!!!).
June 14, 2007- Tomoko and Markus gave us another grandchild!!! Claudius was born healthy and happy and the joy of his parents' lives
July 2006 - The BIG news with Markus was that he and Tomoko (from Japan) got married in May of 2006. Markus is still consulting with Accenture and now the couple lives in Munich, Germany. In July Markus and Tomoko were in Chicago on business and they came to visit us. From "Cow Girl" to "Race Car Driver" Tomoko is one talented and beautiful lady.
January 2006 - Many changes have taken place with Markus since our last update!!! He completed his Master's Degree from the University of Mannheim, became a consultant with Accenture, spent a year in New York on an assignment, returned to Germany for a short time, then was sent to Tokyo, Japan on an assignment. He has been there a year and just recently finished his assignment to return home. We don't know what his future holds at this point, but it sounds exciting!!!!!
April 2004 - Gwyn and Debbie spent the Easter Holiday with Markus and his family in Neiderstetten, along with many relatives. It was a wonderful holiday and fun to be wit the family again.
July 2002 - Markus joined the working world in April, and is now a consultant with Accenture, one of the largest consulting firms in the world. He currently is working on a project in Fankfurt.
March 2002 - Markus and his friend, Dora, visited with us for a month in March. They went with us to the Southern Conference in Charleston, where the Wildcats claimed the Southern Conference Championship!
Sept. 2001 - I feel sure Markus' family wishes USAir would stop offering E-Savers!! Again, the family opened their home to us with open arms. We spent all but the first night with the Kraemers. Markus is on his final leg of schooling - working on his thesis.
Oct. 2000 - Markus was Jerry's "weekend" host for the three weekends he was in Germany in October. He worked TWO internships this past summer. Three months in New York at Deutsche Telecom, then flew home over a weekend and started work on Monday with a consulting firm (Kienbaum) in Gummersbach, Germany. Markus will miss the first three weeks at the University in Mannheim as he finishes his Kienbaum internship. Still a "go-getter" who will hopefully finish his Masters in late 2001.
May 2000 - Markus was the perfect tour guide during our week long visit in Norway. Catch the link off of our home page to see and read about the trip! He had two weeks between finishing at the University in Bergen, Norway and starting his three-month internship in New York - He spent it with us as our tour guide!
Oct 1999--Regular phone and E-Mails from Markus keep us up to date. He is enjoying his studies in Bergen, Norway, and talked so much about the beauty of the country, that Gwyn and I are strongly considering a trip to Norway in the Spring (2000).
June 1999--Markus has recently been accepted to the University of Norway for another year abroad. He will be continuing his studies in Business. Regular e-mails from Markus keep us up to date on his family and his studies.
Markus also lives at home and has an apartment in Mannheim, Germany where he is continuing his studies at the University. He changed universities (he was in Wurzburg) and really seems to enjoy his classes. Markus was the middle man and cross country driver on our trip to Europe. We met Markus and Zeynep in Wurzburg, and he played tour guide for the middle part of the trip. We had also met Markus' parents and sister when they visited the US. We really enjoyed visiting with the family and the eating the German foods we remembered from so long ago. Markus was kind enough to drive us across the country to Paris, where we met Celine and Eric Schlotterbeck, and spent a night in "the city of lights". -

. . . . . Alex 1998. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Father, Mother, Alex & Sister - 1999. .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 2004 trip to Germany

In March of 2010 Alex could no longer resist the pull of Davidson and brought his lovely wife Hannah to see where he had spent a year of his life! As seen above we spent time on campus, eating at The Soda Shop shooting guns, and playing golf, plus much more. I love that Alex is a planner and that he had a whole list of things he wanted to show Hannah and do while they were here!

Our 2012 trip didn't have enough days for us to spend a night with Alex, Hannah, & Jonathan, but we did get up early enough to have breakfast with them and spend the day. Jonathan wasen't feeling well, but as cute as he is, you can't tell it in the pictures. We had two great meals and got to go see the school where Alex teaches in Wiedenbach before we had to dash back for a pre-christening dinner. There home is brand new and just beautiful.

Alexander Weiss from Ansbach, Germany (Host Student 98/99).

May 2012 - Spent the day in Wiedenbach with Alex, Hannah, and little Jonathan!
March 2010 - Alex brought Hannah to Davidson so she could see the places she had heard of so often! We had so much fun playing while they were here. Alex went to campus several days and got to see many of the faculty and staff that he remembered. It was like watching a kid in a candy store!
August 2008 - Alex married Hannah!!!! We have not had the privilege of meeting our new "daughter-in-law", but do know that she and Alex are both teaching in Ansbach and enjoying it. Hopefully, Alex will bring her to meet us on one of their holidays!!
December 2006 - Alex remains extremely busy, living in Ornbau and teaching in Wurzburg. The commutes, althoug long, allow him time when he is at home to be involved with concerts at the church.
April '04 - Alex has finished his Master's Degree and is currently teaching some courses at the University of Wurzburg. Gwyn had a wonderful visit with him while in Wurzburg. We hope Alex will take a break and come back to Davidson soon!!
July 2002 - Alex is on the "down-hill stretch", working on his thesis. He plans to be finished in March of 2003 and already has an offer from an Insurance Company in Munich, as well as the military talking to him about Officer training with the rank of Lieutenant.
Sept. 2001 - Alex was extremely disappointed about the fact that he would not be seeing us. He was in Munich working an internship and had already made plans for the weekend. We tried to work Munich into our short week, but in the end had to settle for phone calls. Short trips on short notice do have their drawbacks!
March 2001 - Alex again returned to Davidson for his version of "March Madness". He spent two weeks in Davidson (a good part of it on campus - experiencing living in the Senior Appartments) catching up with friends and his adopted family. We hope Alex can make it again next year, making it four years in a row!!!
Oct. 2000 - Alex gave Jerry the VIP Treatment in Wurzburg. Alex allowed Jerry to spend several days in his room at the University. Great accommodations and the price was perfect (it only cost a few fabulous meals out with excellent wine - a five star recommendation! Alex and Katrin continue to study hard and make a lovely couple.
March 2000, -- Alex coordinated with us a surprise visit to Davidson. He spent 10 days in Davidson, visiting with us in the early evenings and weekends, and with friends on campus into the wee hours. He took many people by surprise and was quite pleased about sneaking into town undetected. He then flew to Chicago to visit with his aunt and family for 10 days.
Nov. 1999 - WOW! What a great experience visiting with Alex and his family in Ornbau. We had heard about his beautiful small village and finally got to see it in person. His parents, Gerhard and Monika, and his sister Victoria opened their home to us and in just eight short hours fed us three times! If you ever visit, go hungry!!!
10/23/99--Alex continues his studies in Wurzburg and is planning a return trip to Davidson during his spring break.
Alexander Weiss was a one year student at Davidson studying math. During the year we got to enjoy Alex's talents of singing in the Davidson Choir, and playing the piano and organ. He did acquire two new skills at Davidson--juggling and golf!! He and Jerry enjoyed many fun evenings on Davidson's three-hole golf course. Alex plans to resume his study of math at the University of Wurzburg when the next semester starts in the fall.

. . . . . .Britta 4/2000 - and - her brother (Tomas) and parents - 5/2000

Gwyn & Britta in Germany, April 2004 . . . . . .Britta August 2006

Unfortunately, Britta arrived on Gwyn's "Pole Butting" day! Britta had gotten up before dawn to ride a train 3-1/2 hours to eat lunch with us and spend the afternoon. She came out of the train station only to find Gwyn sitting with strangers with a huge knot on her head after running into a pole. Britta's visit went from pleasure to "Nursing". We were so thankful to have her their to help, but so sad that she ended up spending more hours on the train to and from, than hours visiting and playing. In the picture, Gwyn turned her head to hide the big knot. Even with the unfortunate mishap, we still enjoyed the time we spent with Britta!

Britta Steinhanses from Rimpar, Germany (Host Student 99/2000).

May 2012 - We had a short visit with Britta in Wurzburg and learned more about her job at the University of Hof, which is northeast of Wurzburg.
December, 2008 - Britta gave us some very sad news--her beloved brother and best friend, Thomas, died of complications of pnewmonia very unexpectedly. The family is devastated by his loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
August 2006 - Britta finally came back "Home" for a long overdue visit. She was in the U.S. attending a Six-Sigma class for the U.S. Army with whom she works. She got to spend 12 days with us (and the dogs) for some much needed and most enjoyable catch-up time.
April 2004 - Gwyn, Debbie and Carrie got to spend time with Britta when they visited Germany on a short Holiday. Britta took them to Rothenburg and spent the day...it was wonderful!!
July 2002 - Britta continues her studies at the University of Wurzburg and has caught the eye of a young man. She would not give details (she does not kiss and tell) - Said we should look for another e-saver and come meet him!
Sept 2001 - We did not get to see Britta during our short stay, but did talk to her on the phone. Unfortunately for us she was working the second shift at a factory (earning a little college spending money) and we were unable to see her smiling face.
March 2001 - Britta called to say she is moving to Wurzburg, and starting an internship. Good luck with both!!
Oct. 2000 - Jerry got to have lunch and spend a short afternoon with Britta along with a host family dinner. Britta is back at the University in Wurzburg, and hitting the books (in German, not English, this year! Although, her major is English)
May 2000 - Gwyn and I had the honor of meeting Britta's family during our May visit. We spent a lovely afternoon with her family and enjoyed tea outside under the gazebo. We also got to see Britta's lovely flat.

-. . . Anne-Laure '00 - Bois Family (Aurelien, Christian, Martine, Anne-Laure) Summer 2000

June 2006 - Gwyn & Anne-Laure - Bois Family (Christian, Aurelien, Martine)

Charlotte, Jane, Anne-Laure in June 2006

Anne-Laure Bois from Cerelles, France (Host Student 2000/2001).

June 2006 - Gwyn and Jerry went to France and Spain for two weeks and were treated like royalty by the "children" and families. We got to spend several days with Anne-Laure (day trip to Villandry and a day trip to Amboise) and stay with her family. Anne-Laure continues to teach the future leaders of France, and seems to really love her work.
July '02 - "Back to the USA" - Wow these young people travel! Anne-Laure will be returning to the US in August to teach (French of course) at a university just north of the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.
March '02 - Anne-Laure and her brother Aurelien returned to the U.S. for a short visit. While here they toured some of the East Coast, going to the Outer Banks, Charleston and Orlando.
May 2001 - Anne-Laure returned to France and took a "summer camp" job to earn a little money before returning to the University in Tours, France.
March 2001 - Anne-Laure's family visited us for Spring Break and toured parts of the East Coast.

- Jasmin Bluhm '01 . . . . . . . . . '02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . '02

Jasmin's Parents (Bernd & Brigitte) Sept. '01 in their home

.Gwyn & Jasmin in Germany, April 2004

Jasmin Bluhm from Waldbrunn, Germany (Host Student 2001/2002).

December, 2008 -News from Jasmin is that she will be spending the next six months in Sydney, Australia! I'm sure Jasmin will enjoy her time there since she has such a love of life and joy in learing new things.
January ' 06 - We called Jasmin to wish her a Happy Birthday!! She is doing great--studying for her exams is keeping her quite busy and does not give her much time for parties!!
April '04 - Gwyn took three weeks to visit our German children while she was out of work. She had time to visit with each child and spend time with their famiies.
July '02 - Jasmin and her family decided to vacation on the West Coast (San Francisco to Los Angeles) prior to Jasmin going back to Germany. Her current plans are to fly back August 10th.
January '02 - Jasmin's parents came for a visit and to celebrate Jasmin's birthday. We had a great time visiting and taking them to the local "Hot" spots, like Hooters!
Aug. 2001 - Jasmin (a one year Sports & Math major student) Jasmin comes to the U.S. for the first time leaving her parents, Brigitte and Berndt, and her brother Roman (who is two years older) to look after the family business. Her father owns a sign design business and her mother has her own hair dressing business.

Emeka Erege '01 . . . . TV Star . . . . and . . . . Radio Personality (With his mother in the background)

Emeka's Dad & Mom after Graduation - May '02

. . .Dec '05 Gwyn & Emeka at Michael Bree's Wedding

Emeka Erege is from Lagos, Nigeria (Host Student 1998/2002).

Summer, 2007 - Emeka came for a wonderful visit as he toured the U.S. seeing several friends. We had a good time catching up with him. He has started an MBA program in Ulm at the University and still plays with his basketball league.
December '05 - Gwyn got to see Emeka at Michael Bree's wedding in Sligo, Ireland, where he attended as Michael's Best Man. Em is playing professional basketball for Ulm, Germany, as well as beginning Law School.
July ' 02 - We called Emeka last week only to find from his Mother, Jutta, that is is currently playing on the German National team and was in Norway and Sweden with the team. We are anxious to hear about Emeka's future plans, as he currently has an agent who is searching for a contract for him to play professional basketball with one of the European leagues.
May ' 02 - Emeka graduated from Davidson on May 19th. Emeka's parents were both able to be here for this wonderful event. We had a fun celebration for Emeka, Michael and some of their friends.
March '02 - Southern Conference!! Emeka was back from an injury just in time for the conference and made a strong contribution to the team, however, did not get to play in the final game due to an eye injury in the semifinal game. The Cats still claimed the conference Championship!!
Emeka , our host son for the last four years, continues his studies in Economics. Emeka had a good 1998-99 season playing on the Davidson "Wildcat" basketball team. However, due to a previous injury he sat out the 1999-00 season. He worked hard with the team and now is in "top" shape and looking forward to the 2000-2001 season. As Gwyn and I are avid basketball fans, we will be watching Emeka's and Michael's every move this year. The pictures show Emeka being interviewed on radio and television during the 1998-99 season.

- Michael Bree '00 . . . . . . . '01 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . '02 . . . . . . . . . . Michael & Mom '02

. Joe, Michael, (Nephew Niall), Robert, Martina, Rorie, Antoinette, & Paschal (brothers & sisters) '02

From weddings come children, and here is Mikaela and Michael in 2009 and Mikaela at 4 months in March 2010

Michael Bree is from Sligo, Ireland (Host Student 1999/2002).

Summer, 2008 - We got to see Michael while he was helping with one of Coach McKillop's summer camps. He had a young basketball player from Ireland here working out on campus. Michael and Jayme are in Sweden where he signed a two year contract to play basketball.
December '05 - Gwyn and our neice, Carrie, traveled to Sligo for Michael's wedding!! He married his college sweetheart, Jayme Pleasants. The wedding was beautiful and the visit with the family was great. Gwyn also got to see Emeka, who was Michael's Best Man and Martin Ides, who had a reading in the wedding mass. Jayme and Michael will live in Sweden, where Michael is playing for a Swedish league.
June ' 02 - We had a great opportunity to visit Ireland for Paschal and Angela's wedding (Michael's brother). We had a grand time--three days of wedding festivities, three days in Sligo (Michael's hometown) and the rest of the trip on our own. We had a GREAT time--Ireland is a beautiful country!
May '02 - Michael graduated from Davidson on May 19th. His Mother, Rita, flew in from Ireland and his sisters, Martina and Antoinette came in from New York for the wonderful event. We had a fun celebration for Michael, Emeka and some of their friends.
March ' 02 - Southern Conference!!!! Michael had an entourage from Ireland--two brothers, two friends and a former coach!! It must have worked--the Wildcats claimed the conference Championship!!
Michael is the youngest of seven children. We've had the pleasure of meeting Michael's Mother, Rita, his brother Joseph and his wife Onya and their son Nil and his brothers Robert, Paschal, and Rorie and his two sisters, Marie and Antoniette. Now all we have left to do is visit their beautiful country of Ireland!! (Maybe for Paschal's wedding next summer???) The pictures show Michael being interviewed after being named "Player of the Game" in one of Davidson's games, and relaxing at our house over Christmas break. Michael is returning to Davidson this year as a Senior. He went home to Ireland for the summer and played for the Irish National Team for a bit, then worked in a bank in Dublin for the remainder of the summer. Michael will be a starting point guard with the Davidson Wildcats and will share the honor of Co-Captain of the Wildcats with Emeka.

Charlotte '02 . . . . . . . . . . Charlotte & Jimin - 04 Graduation . . . . . Charlotte, Diane & Sylve - June '06

Charlotte, Jane & Anne-Laure - June '06 . . . . . . . . . .Charlotte, Thanksgiving '06

Charlotte LeForestier from St. Symphorien, France (Host Student 2002/2003).

2008 - Charlotte continues her teaching position at the University of Tours. She and Guillame have an apartment in Tours near the school. She enjoys teaching, as well as spending time with her family and her new nephew!!
November' 06 - Charlotte took time from her teaching positon at Harvard to spend Thanksgiving with us here in Davidson. She brought her friend, Caroline to visit as well and we did the annual Christmas Tree Hunt the day after Thanksgiving.
June '06 - Gwyn & Jerry visited Charlotte and her family at their beautiful country home! We got to spend time with her Mom, Dad & sisters, as well as eat GREAT food and swim in their wonderful pool!
March '06 - News from Charlotte!!! She has been chosen for a teaching assistantship in French at Harvard!!!!! We not only are so proud of her, but ecstatic that she will be in the states and come to see us!!!
May '04 - Charlotte returned to Davidson for Graduation. It was a surprise to many of her friends and she had a wonderful time catching up with them. Stateside for two weeks was not long enough for us!
August '02 - Charlotte (a one year student) is a History major. Charlotte had been to the U.S. five times prior to attending Davidson, so her arrival on August 15, 2002 was "old-hat" to her. Her parents and two younger sisters, Sylve and Diane have a beautiful farm on the edge of Tours..

Kathi 2003 .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2003 Parents came to visit Mannfred, Kathi, and Ute

April '04 visit to Germany . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . Kathi and Stephan came for a visit in August 2008

Kathi & Stephan in the NC Mountains

Katharina (Kathi) Schallmaier from Wurzburg, Germany (Host Student 2003).

Summer, 2008 - Kathi and Stephan came for a visit and we had a wonderful time. We took a short trip to Virginia Beach to visit family, then they headed on their own to the Outer Banks and had a lovely time.
December, 2006 - Kathi called to wish us a Merry Christmas--she is living in Wurzburg and teaching in Ansbach and really enjoys it. She did her "student teaching" in a small town near Munich, but is happy to be back home near her family and friends.
April 2004 - Gwyn got to go on a three week visit to Germany between jobs...what a wonderful trip!! Kathi's Mom had a friend who was kind enough to let me use her flat in downtown Wurzburg--right in the middle of everything. It was so kind and made it so easy for all the students to keep up with me!!
October 2003 - Kathi and Tobi came back to the U.S. for a visit. They were here for Halloween and went to a costume party--Kathi and Mini-Mouse and Tobi as Goofey!! They were a cute pair!!
January 2003 - Kathi is a one year student from Germany who is a Sports and English major at the Univeristy of Wurzburg. She hopes to teach both in Germany when she returns home to finish her Master's Degree. Kathi's parents came for a visit while she studied here and we really enjoyed spending time with them--what great people!

Jerry, Jane, and Gwyn 2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. .Dany & Jane, June '06 . . . . . .. .. Jean-Emile, Jane & Alexi, June '06

May 2008 - Jane, Teddy, Alba, & Darry .- - JJane, Danny, & Jean-Emile at the White Water Park in Charlotte & in the NC Mountains

Jane Mazer from Tours, France (Host Student 2004/2005).

May, 2008 - Jane and her parents came back to Davidson for Teddy's graduation!! Alba also got back--it was a wonderful reunion!! We went to the North Carolina mountains for the day and enjoyed spending time with the Mazers and Spasovas at the Cheesecake Factory! The girls also planned their trip to Spain to Alba's wedding!!
December '06 - We heard from Jane! She is doing an internship in a law practice in Paris.
June '06 - Gwyn & Jerry visited Jane and her Mom & Dad in Paris & Tours. We were treated to two beautiful Chateaux - Villandry and Ambois - by Danny; and two wonderful Parisian restaurants - Le Procope and Laduree - by Jean Emile! Jane found out shortly after we visited that she got accepted into her second year Law School. She is looking for a new flat in Paris.
March ' 06 - Jane has a flat in Paris where she is continuting her studies at the Sorbonne. We hope to see her in June, 2006 when we visit our French children!!
Jane (a one year student) is a pre-law major. Althouth Jane had been to the U.S. several times prior to attending Davidson, she had never been to the great state of North Carolina. Her parents and older brother and sister, Jean Emile & Dany, Benoit and Charlotte I'm sure miss her while she is here.

Will is a man of all seasons, as you can see above. (Also looks like he likes older women!)

Will Scheffers from Botswana (Host Student 2004/2006).

January, 2009 - we heard from Will, who is doing well. He has applied to graduate school here, so hopefully he will be back on our side of the world and we will get a visit!!
May, 2007 - Will returned home to Bostwana and began teaching at his old high school. He enjoyes spending time with this family and friends
May '06 - Will graduated and accepted a teaching position in Spanish at Charlotte Country Day. He really likes teaching and I'm sure is an asset to the school and students. He is living in Charlotte and we get to have dinner with him occasionally and see him at home basketball games!
Will came to us his Junior year. He is a Psychology major with a minor in Spanish. We are enjoying spending time with him whenever we can.

Clelie & Jerry at Lake Campus - April '06 . . . . Clelie, Michel & Marie-Laure - June '06

Clelie Rosa from Tours, France (Host Student 2005/2006).

2007 - Clelie completed her Master's degree and moved with her parents to Provence
June 2006 - Clelie flew back to France with us after her year here in Davidson. We had the opporunity to meet her parents and have a lovely lunch with them.
Clelie is a one year student who majors in English and African/American culture at the University of Tours.

Myriam 2006 . . . . Myriam & roommates Laura, Verena and Isabel

Myriam as her character "Elbo" in a Davidson play, and a road trip to Grandfather mountain (Caroline, Laura, Isabel, Myriam's mother, Marie Noelle, Natalia, and Myriam.

Myriam Genest from Tours, France (Host Student 2006/2007).

Myriam was a one year student from a small village near Tours. She was active in a theater group, as well being in a musical group in her home town. Those interests carried over to Davidson where Myriam appeared in the Shakespeare play "Measure for Measure". We went to two of her performances and she was wonderful!! Myriam was so fortunate to bond with her roommates--Laura, the one year student from China, Verena, the one year student from Germany and Isabel, the one year student from Spain. We are sure they will see each other in the future.
May '07 - When Myriam returned home she got a job working as a day camp counselor for the summer. She is working with 50 children ages 4-8 years old. We think she is very brave!!
July '07 - We learned that Isabel is flying up from Spain to visit Myriam in Paris and then go to Myriam's home to meet and visit with family and friends.
January, 2009 - Myriam continues here studies. She has applied for a teaching position in the U.S. and will know in February if she gets back on our side of the world!! We're keeping our fingers crossed.

Sabine (2007). . . . May 2008 = Sabine and her parents (Gerd & Marietta) came for a visit and trip to the NC Mountains

Jerry & Sabine on top of the world

Sabine Hemberger, from Hainstadt, Germany (Host Student 2007/2008)

January, 2009 - Sabine plans a trip to the U.S. to see her friends and some Wildcat basketball. She will be with us about three weeks and we are really looking forward to spending time with her!
May, 2008 - Sabine's parents (Gerd & Marietta) came for a visit after she completed her year here. They traveled to the West Coast and had a wonderful trip. She and her parents returned to Germany in June.
The college gave us the privilege of a letting us have the German student from what may be the last class of exchange students from the University of Wurzburg, where we lived in our third year of marriage.
Sabine Hemberger lives in Hainstadt, Germany and is a student at the University of Wurzburg. Her major is English, with a minor in physical education, and she is excited about coming to the U.S. for the second time and having the opportunity to study at Davidson and get to understand and experience the American culture. Sabine's father is a retired policeman, her mother a laboratory assistant and she has one sister, Christine, that is two years older than herself. She loves sports, both watching and participating and is very excited about her soon to be year abroad.

Kin and Myriam (2006) . . . . . . Kin, mother (Maize) and sister (Tiffany) (2006)

Kin parents (Kwong & Maize) visit in 2009

Kin Lau, from Hong Kong / Jamaica (Host Student 2006/2010)

Kin was born in Hong Kong and moved with his family to Jamaica when he was two years old. In 2009 his family moved back to Hong Kong.
January, 2011 - Kin graduated with a Biology degree and is now in a Ph.D. program in Agronomy at Perdue University in Indiana.

Salah Mohammed from Addis Ababa, Ethopia (Host Student 2010/14)

Salah followed his older sister and two older brothers to Davidson!
He will complete his Bachelor's Degree at Davidson in Physics in May of 2014 and is applying to graduate schools here in the states in Civil Engineering.
Salah Mohammed, a Senior (a Physics major) is a four year student who was born and raised in Ethiopia. He follows his three older siblings to Davidson! Upon learning that Salah had been accepted at Davidson we immediately sent a note to the college asking if we could please be his host parents. His oldest sibling (Samia who graduated in 1999) was very close to Gwyn's sister Brenda, and of course we knew her as well. We also knew Nejib (I have great stories of a canoe trip we took down the New River) who graduated in 2001. We became even closer to his brother Fethi, who spent a lot of time in our house, who graduated in 2006.
Salah flew into Charlotte on August 14th, 2010 with his brother Nejib and has been a joy from the first moment. With his charm and quick wit he has fit right in at the Hollenbeck House.
Salah was a joy to have the four years he was at Davidson. He graduated in May, 2014 and returned home to Ethiopia for three months
January 2015 - Salah is currently back in the U.S. attending an intensive IT program after which he hopes to find work here in the States.

Adele Cenier from Anet, France (Host Student 2012/13)

Adele spent most of her early years in Paris, before her family relocated to Anet, which is about one hour west of Paris. Adele came to Davidson in August of 2012, but in June of 2012 Gwyn and I were in Anet, France with one of our former French students (Myriam Genest) as she performed in a parade! What a small world!
In August of 2013 Adele returned to the University of Tours (France) to continue her work on her Masters.
March 2014 - Adele has been accepted into several PHD programs (at four universities in the U.S. so far) and is waiting to hear from several other universities before making her final decision!
January 2015 - Adele is currently in a PhD program at Tulane University in New Orleans

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Maria Turunova from Saratov, Russia (Host Student 2013/14)

Maria Turunova (a Fulbright Scholar) arrived mid-August (2013) from Saratov, Russia. Saratov is between Moscow and Sochi.
Maria was in Boston in 2009 for three months, so this was not her first trip to the U.S. At Davidson she worked with the Russian professors and taught the language labs as well as taking a few classes.
Prior to coming to Davidson she taught in an elementary school in Russia for two years.
After her year at Davidson, Maria planned to travel with a friend throughout Asia

This page last updated January, 2015.