Distinguished Women

Bright Ideas FROM DISTINGUISHED WOMEN

Harpeth Hall has always been a place that inspires and prepares girls to become what they dream. Perhaps it is a pilot, a paramedic, a poet, a president. There are no limits to the bright pursuits of our students. And the 6th grade Distinguished Women project sets them on their path. This year, the middle school students researched important women in all eras of history, learning what inspired them, the challenges they faced, and how they made a meaningful difference in the world. Then, as is tradition, the students brought spirits of their chosen women — Amelia Earhart, Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou, and other timeless female role models — to life through their project presentations. As they do each year, each 6th grade student learned what it takes to become a woman who turns ideas into reality.

Audrey Hepburn • CHOSEN BY ALESSANDRA NAVORI “Audrey Hepburn showed passion in her work, whether in the spotlight as an actress or traveling across the country to support children. The positive outlook she maintained each day inspired others and influenced them to pursue their dreams while giving back to society.” What big idea did Ms. Hepburn inspire in you? “Her devotion to UNICEF inspired me to help out with my community more. Since the future is computer-based, my idea is to create a program that collects donations of used electronics — computers, iPads, and more — and give them to the children in need to further their education. … Also, like Ms. Hepburn, when I reach 7th grade I’ll face my fears of being on stage and start auditioning for musicals.”

Katherine Dunham • CHOSEN BY KENNEDY SANDERS Katherine Dunham, a noted dancer and choreographer with a Ph.D. in anthropology, is celebrated for her innovative interpretations of African American, Caribbean, African, and South American movements and for incorporating those dance styles and themes into her ballets. She was active in human rights causes, and in 1992, she staged a 47-day hunger strike to highlight the plight of Haitian refugees. Ms. Dunham received a Kennedy Center Honor in 1983 and the National Medal of Arts in 1989.

What big idea did Ms. Dunham inspire in you? “Through her career, she danced in all different types of cultures, has traveled, and made incredible projects to help the world. She taught me that you can do anything — you just have to break through barriers. She has inspired me to write books and short stories.”

Nancy Lopez • CHOSEN BY LUCY OLIVER Nancy Lopez was a professional golfer known for being a major force in the sport in the 1970s and 1980s. A lifelong student and instructor of the game, Ms. Lopez was recognized during the LPGA’s 50th anniversary in 2000 as one of the LPGA’s top-50 players and teachers. She was presented with the 2003 Billie Jean King Contribution Award from the Women’s Sports Foundation, and in 2004, she became the first woman to receive the Frances Ouimet Award for lifelong contributions to golf. What big idea did Ms. Lopez inspire in you? “My distinguished woman was known for having the best attitude and always being so kind to others. She has inspired others to always have an awesome attitude even when they're having their worst day. She also gave me the bright idea to play in more golf tournaments with people who are better than me so I can continue to improve and love the game even more.”