Thanks to the remarkable contributions of numerous individuals within our Country Day community, both large and small, we stand as a beacon of educational excellence. Since its inception alongside our school’s 40th anniversary in 1981, the Honorary Alumni Association has served as a meaningful tribute to the parents, trustees, faculty, staff, and friends whose outstanding service and generous support have left an indelible mark. Each year, we gather for a dinner to welcome new inductees into this esteemed association. Additionally, we take this opportunity to acknowledge the Alumni of the Year and present the David L. Hood Jr. Award for Volunteer Service.
This year's event, held on February 20, 2025, was a celebration of advocates of the school whose dedication has greatly enriched our students' lives, advanced our mission, and strengthened our community, perpetuating the essence of Country Day's ethos in both life and learning.
- The Klein Family—Honorary Alumni
- Al Pearman—Honorary Alumnus
- William Byron ’16—Alumnus of the Year
- Parker and Stephen Shuford—David L. Hood Jr. Award for Volunteer Service
Honorary Alumni: The Klein Family
The Klein Family has made a lasting impact on Charlotte Country Day School through their generosity and leadership. Fred and Gené Klein, along with their children, Fred Klein III ’92 and Amy Klein Aznar ’89, played a key role in the Forefront Campaign, leading to the creation of the Klein Aquatic Center. This state-of-the-art facility supports student-athletes, including the 2024 and 2025 State Champion Girls Swim Team, and offers swim programs promoting water safety for young children.
Amy and Fred III continue their family's legacy, serving on advisory boards and leading community initiatives. Fred III was instrumental in designing the Aquatic Center, and his wife, Megan, has held leadership roles in the Parents’ Association, serving on the Executive Committee in significant roles.
Through their vision and generosity, the Klein Family has shaped Country Day’s facilities, athletics, and student experience, ensuring a strong foundation for future generations.
In honoring them, Katharine Atkins, Director of Advancement, said, “Fred and Gené clearly instilled a sense of service, philanthropy, and purpose in their family that has transcended to the rest of the family."
Honorary Alumnus for Faculty and Staff: Al Pearman
In his quiet and dedicated way, Al Pearman has shaped the Country Day community for over 35 years as an educator and coach. Currently a Lower School PE teacher and Varsity Track & Field head coach, Al has had a profound impact on the school's physical education and athletics programs. He has coached numerous state championship-winning teams, including the 2024 Girls Track & Field Team, and has served in various roles, from Admissions associate to PE teacher across all divisions and football coach.
Al’s contributions have been widely recognized, earning him accolades such as the Faculty & Staff Exceptional Performance Award and the Carl Bolick Coaches Award. His teaching and coaching philosophy centers on collaboration, working with colleagues to create a comprehensive and supportive program for students.
Al’s influence extends beyond athletics. He is beloved by peers, students, and families, especially known for his leading Lower School students in songs during the annual holiday visit to the Head of School’s house. Through his years of service, Al has made a lasting impact, nurturing the physical and personal growth of Country Day’s students.
“The first thing I think about when I think about Al Pearman is what a man of character he is,” said Logan Smith, Lower School PE teacher. Coach Bob Witman, fellow Honorary Alumni Association inductee, added, “Al Pearman is one of the most dedicated professionals that I have known."
David L. Hood Jr. Award for Volunteer Service: Parker and Stephen Shuford
Parker and Stephen Shuford have been steadfast supporters of Country Day, demonstrating exceptional loyalty through their consistent giving and hands-on leadership. As dedicated members of the Loyal Giving and 1941 Societies, they have played a vital role in the success of the Country Day Fund (CDF), particularly as co-chairs during the 2019–20 campaign.
During this pivotal year, Parker and Stephen navigated the challenges of the global pandemic with humility and dedication, uniting fundraising efforts to support the school’s strategic priorities of innovation and creativity. They continued their leadership as CDF Leadership Chairs in 2020–21, ensuring the program’s momentum.
Parker has also been a long-time volunteer with the Parents’ Association, holding multiple leadership roles, including Co-Chair of the All- School Celebration and Auction, Lower School Retail Chair, and 12th Grade Parent Representative.
Stephen, vice chairman of Shurtape Technologies, served on the Board of Trustees from 2016 to 2023, offering guidance on numerous committees, including Finance & Audit and Community & Culture. As Advancement Committee Chair, Stephen’s leadership was instrumental in shaping the school’s advancement strategy following the Forefront Campaign, helping to position the school for future success. Together, Parker and Stephen’s dedication has made a lasting impact on Country Day.
Interim Head of School David Mancos said, “I have been here for 26 years, and I've seen a lot of trustees and volunteers come and go, and they were the best I have ever worked with.”
Honorary Alumnus: William Byron ’16
William Byron ’16 has solidified his place among NASCAR’s elite, winning back-to-back Daytona 500 titles in 2024 and 2025. A driver for Hendrick Motorsports, he has quickly ascended the ranks to become one of the sport’s most exciting young stars. Now in his sixth full season in NASCAR’s premier series, he continues to shine behind the wheel of the iconic No. 24 car.
William’s passion for racing began at Country Day, where he followed NASCAR closely and honed his skills through iRacing, an online racing simulator used by professionals. By his senior year, he had already won NASCAR’s K&N Pro Series East and signed with top racing teams. His career has since been marked by major achievements, including winning the 2017 NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship and earning 2018 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year honors.
Off the track, William is dedicated to giving back. An Eagle Scout and recipient of the Good Scout Award, he has raised over $1 million for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Carolinas. He remains closely connected to Country Day, supporting Bucs Together Days of Giving and staying engaged with former teachers and coaches.
Tim Moxley, his former JV football coach, shares, "William embodies everything that Country Day is. He works incredibly hard; he is an incredibly likable person, generous, and genuine. I think he would have excelled at whatever he chose to do." Marshall Carlson ’92, President of Hendrick Companies, added, "He is only 7 years into the Cup Series. He is the hardest-working driver I've ever been around in my career.