Turning Purpose into Impact

When Sophie D. ’28 arrived at Chatham Hall, she brought with her more than ambition; she carried a deeply personal purpose. Today, that purpose is taking shape through The Tommy Doss Initiative, founded in loving memory of her father. Its mission is clear: to fund research and bring hope to families affected by Glioblastoma (GBM), an aggressive form of brain cancer. What began as an idea has grown into something far more powerful.

That idea first took root at her previous school, where Sophie was challenged to develop a project. But what could have remained an assignment became something enduring when she chose to continue and expand the work. “I didn’t want to do something just because it was a school project,” Sophie shared. “I wanted to do something that mattered.”

A Story of Strength, A Call to Action

Sophie’s father faced his diagnosis with remarkable strength and optimism. Even in the hardest moments, he remained focused on what mattered most: his family, his faith, and hope for the future. That perspective left a lasting imprint, and today, it fuels Sophie’s leadership.

This spring, she is channeling that inspiration into action through Tommy’s Trek: Boldly Running for a Cure, a 5K run/walk and children’s fun run designed to raise both awareness and critical funding for GBM research.

More than a race, the event is a reflection of something bigger: a community coming together around resilience, hope, and purpose. As Sophie puts it, “I don’t want this to just be about my dad. I want it to help other people, too.”

Expanding the Circle

That sense of purpose is already reaching beyond campus. Sophie is working to bring together not only the Chatham Hall community but also to expand awareness and invite others into the mission.

Because at Chatham Hall, learning doesn’t stay contained within a classroom. It grows into something larger:

Join the Movement

Sophie’s work is a powerful example of what happens when students are supported in turning personal experience into purpose-driven leadership. She is honoring her father’s legacy while building one of her own, one defined by courage, compassion, and impact.

Join us in supporting Sophie and The Tommy Doss Initiative:
👉 https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Danville/TommySTrekBoldlyRunningForACure

Together, we run for hope.
Together, we create impact.