John and his wife, Julie, both grew up in Maryland but have lived in Wheaton since they got married in 1997. John studied business at Wheaton College and has worked in the Exchange Traded Fund business for most of his career. Seeking an alternative to public schools, the Southards were introduced to Clapham School during its infancy, sending their children when its doors opened in 2006. Four of their five children attended through 8th grade, and their youngest daughter graduated from Clapham School in 2021.
