FROM THE DESK OF DR. AUTUMN A. GRAVES DEAR ST. ANNE'S-BELFIELD COMMUNITY, I?m four months into my tenure at our School, and each day I learn something new about our people, program, and traditions. It?s been an extraordinary beginning and I long to have more in-person conversations with each of you. Since I am unable to have the number of in-person conversations I wish to have, I am choosing this medium to share with you the work I am leading at our School. You are reading the inaugural edition of a quarterly newsletter where I focus on some aspect of our community. In light of the current challenges our society faces as it relates to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), I think it best for me to focus my first newsletter on this mission critical subject. St. Anne?s-Belfield has been devoted to diversity for many years. Our board of trustees adopted our Diversity and Inclusion Statement in 2016 (p. 5) and adopted additional DEI-specific goals in our Strategic Plan 2017-2022. Each day my colleagues aspire to educate our students to become exemplary citizens and visionary leaders (p. 6-7). And while some efforts have been made to accomplish these strategic goals, we have come to a moment when we need to become more intentional and specific (video, p. 5). My hope is that we continue to grow as an inclusive community, for 04
we know that a sense of belonging is critical to a child?s development. It creates the fertile soil for young people to explore the boundaries of their minds and the world. As we go about this work together, I hope we will grow more excellent as a community, one in which every student may reflect on their St. Anne?s experience and feel that overall sense of belonging. I would like you to know that your sense of belonging and perspective is also important to me. Yes, as it relates to DEI, but also to the multifaceted aspects of your relationship to the School. I will be reaching out to students, alumni, parents, teachers, and staff to get your input and advice throughout my tenure (see parent survey, p. 10). I hope that when I do, you will answer that call. Be well, Dr. Autumn A. Graves Head of School P.S. I am launching this newsletter without a title in hopes you will help me name it! I welcome your votes by clicking here.
