Fall Convocation 2025

On August 27, 2025, the Chatham Hall community gathered in St. Mary’s for one of our most cherished traditions: Opening Convocation. This special service formally launches the academic year and invites every member of our community to pause, reflect, and step into the year ahead with intention and hope.

The service began with a handbell offering by Jane W. ’26, before Chaplain Barksdale welcomed the entire community. She reminded us that convocation means “a formal assembly with a purpose,” and ours is to begin again, together. Drawing inspiration from the phrase “Always we begin again,” she invited each of us to embrace the possibilities of the year with courage and imagination. Mr. John Scott offered a beautiful prelude. 

Throughout the service, students led us in prayer, scripture, and readings drawn from a range of traditions and voices. Addy A. ’27 shared our gathering words from Ephesians, Lexi W. ’26 offered the Opening Collect, and Anushree A. ’27 led us in an invitatory centered on wisdom and community.

The Opening of School Litany, led by Saniah P. ’27, brought forward voices from students, faculty, and staff. Together, we pledged to cultivate curiosity, creativity, courage, and compassion both inside and outside the classroom.

Readings on the theme of community were shared by Bella C. ’27, Dr. Melissa Mitchem, Lainey R. ’27, and Ms. Kimber Keating, offering wisdom from Catholic, Islamic, Buddhist, and Christian traditions. These interfaith perspectives highlighted the shared values of love, unity, and care for one another that guide our lives at Chatham Hall.

Nicole H. ’28 and Becky Y. ’27 led the Passing of the Peace, a meaningful exchange of greetings and blessings that reminded us of our deep connections to one another.

Rector Sara Stephenson delivered the Convocation Address, focusing on the importance of building and sustaining a positive school culture. She also presented awards to students recognized on the Dean’s and Rector’s Lists, recipients of Scholastic Medals, and the Virginia Henry Holt Award.

The service closed with communal prayer, led by Anaiah C.G. ’26, the Lord’s Prayer offered by Emily S. ’28, and the singing of the Alma Mater. Together, the community was sent forth with Chaplain Barksdale’s blessing: “Go in peace to love and serve. Amen!”

Opening Convocation is more than the start of a new year—it is a reminder of who we are as a community and who we aspire to be. With joy, gratitude, and anticipation, Chatham Hall has begun another year of learning, discovery, and growth.