Faculty & Staff Appreciation Service

At Chatham Hall, it is often said that the people are what make this place extraordinary. That truth was felt deeply during this year’s Faculty and Staff Appreciation Service as the community gathered to honor the dedication, care, and lasting impact of employees celebrating milestone years of service.

The service recognized faculty and staff members whose commitment has helped shape the Chatham Hall experience for generations of students. From those completing their fifth year to those who have devoted decades to the School, each honoree represents the heart of this community.

This year, Chatham Hall celebrated employees marking 5, 10, 15, and 20 years of service.

Among those recognized for five years of service were Ms. Samantha Blankenship, whose warmth and humor help prospective families immediately feel at home; Ms. Vicky Cruz ’10, whose deep connection to Chatham Hall is reflected in her care for students and daily operations across campus; Mrs. Amelia Kolach, an exceptional academic leader known for her thoughtful guidance and support of faculty; and Mr. Boyd Motley, whose quiet dedication and steady presence have supported the community in numerous roles over the years.

Celebrating ten years of service were Mr. Cameron Ayres and Mrs. Pamella Harbin. Mr. Ayres was recognized for enriching the community through his passion for the arts, intellectual curiosity, and generosity toward students and colleagues alike. Mrs. Harbin, described as the steady force behind the Enrollment team, was honored for her unwavering support, organization, and warmth that have helped guide countless families through the admissions process.

Ms. Olivia Brooks was recognized for fifteen years of service and praised as a true backbone of the Chatham Hall barn. Her tireless work ethic, care for students and horses, and willingness to tackle any task with grace and positivity have made her an invaluable part of the equestrian program and the broader community.

Celebrating twenty years of service was Ms. Maureen Webb, whose stewardship of the Chatham Hall gardens has filled campus with beauty in every season. Her dedication and talent continue to make a lasting impression on all who walk the grounds.

A particularly meaningful moment of the service was the presentation of the Class of 1996 Employee Service Appreciation Award, established to honor a member of the staff who serves the Chatham Hall community “with selfless example and great love.”

This year’s recipient was Ms. Olivia Brooks.

Described as trustworthy, hardworking, deeply dedicated, and someone who “never stops until the job is done, and done right,” Olivia was recognized not only for her exceptional care of the School’s horses and students, but also for her steady leadership through times of transition. Whether maintaining the arenas, mentoring new employees, or solving problems before others even see them, Olivia’s impact reaches every corner of the equestrian program.

As the community rose in applause, one sentiment was clear: Chatham Hall is stronger because of people like Olivia Brooks and every faculty and staff member who pour their time, talent, and heart into this place each day. The service served as a reminder that while buildings, traditions, and programs shape a school, it is people who bring it to life.