The Heart Behind The Flashback: Our Yearbook Editors-in-Chief

This morning of May 16, the Cannon community gathered for one of the most anticipated events of the year: Yearbook Dedication & Distribution Day. Volume 56 of The Flashback was officially unveiled, carrying the 2024 theme: Small Moments, Big Memories. And true to its name, this year’s edition honored the everyday experiences that become unforgettable, all brought to life through the creativity, vision, and heart of three talented seniors—Editors-in-Chief Lily Wittgraefe, Maryanne Lewis, and Claire Nelson. 

For four years, these students were an integral part of the yearbook program, mentored by yearbook director Michelle Zelaya. From their first days on staff as freshmen to their final moments as leaders, they poured themselves into every detail—design, theme, photography, captions, and countless behind-the-scenes decisions that transformed The Flashback into more than a book. It became a living time capsule of the school year, something that will endure long after graduation. 

The creation process remained a tightly held secret. The theme, cover, dedication, and layout were kept confidential until the May 16 reveal—no sneak peeks, not even for faculty or staff. “We want it to be a true surprise,” Lily said, estimating that she and her fellow editors devoted close to 400 hours to this year’s volume. Planning began before the school year even started, with brainstorming sessions and a long list of possible themes. Once class was in session, the real work began and never let up. 

This year brought new challenges. With several new staffers joining the team, the editors spent extra time teaching, guiding, and building a sense of community. They rose to the occasion with focus and grace, organizing, delegating, and setting clear goals to ensure the book came together on time. The result was a beautiful, cohesive volume they were incredibly proud of. 

Each editor had her own perspective on what made Volume 56 special. For Maryanne, it was the senior section, “designed exactly how we wanted,” she said. Lily highlighted the meaningful incorporation of the theme throughout each page. Claire pointed to the subtle details that made the book inclusive and representative of every student. “There’s something for everyone,” she said. 

Their passion ran far deeper than meeting deadlines. For Lily, the yearbook was “a tangible representation of the school year”—its emotions, successes, and challenges. Maryanne hoped students felt a burst of joy the first time they flipped through the pages. And Claire, who plans to major in Graphic Communications in college, reflected on how yearbook shaped her love of design and storytelling. 

As they looked back on the four volumes they helped create, the editors reflected on their growth—in creativity, confidence, and collaboration. Their advice to future yearbook staffers? “Don’t be afraid to try new things,” said Claire. “Be open to listening,” added Maryanne, “because everyone’s opinions matter.” And Lily summed it up best: “Be open to feedback—and have fun!” 

As the school flipped through The Flashback, Vol. 56 for the very first time, every page reflected the energy, passion, and vision of three students who made yearbook not just their class, but their legacy. 

A special moment during the ceremony was the announcement of this year’s yearbook dedicatees—a tribute to individuals who have made a lasting impact on the school community: 

• Danielle Robinson, Lower School dedicatee 

• Donnie Hayes, Middle School dedicatee 

• Jennifer Weakland, Upper School dedicatee 

• Danny Scurlock, Staff dedicatee 

Congratulations to Lily, Maryanne, and Claire—and heartfelt thanks to our honored faculty and staff—for making this year’s edition a celebration of small moments and big memories.