BEYOND THE HEDGE
EXPLORING HOW OUR STUDENTS LEARN BEYOND TACOMA AVENUE
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOLS
Dear AWS Community,
As I reflect on the 2024–2025 school year, I find myself feeling deeply grateful, not just as Head of Schools, but as a parent.
Earlier this month, my wife Stacey and I drove our son Gus, a Grade 10 student, to the Sea-Tac Airport. He had decided to participate in AWS’ Spanish-language exchange with Colegio Pestalozzi in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Until that moment, the exchange had felt theoretical to me, but watching Gus walk confidently, and very much alone, toward security—and then disappear into the crowd—I was struck with a powerful realization: He’s ready. I might not be, but he is
On the drive home, my wife Stacey and I reflected on the many experiences that brought him to this point. We found ourselves full of gratitude for the journey he’s taken through Annie Wright Schools.
That journey began in the Lower School, where purposeful Inquiry Visits—whether to the Port of Tacoma or the Nisqually Delta—brought learning to life and built confidence beyond the classroom. The Grade 4 overnight and the NatureBridge trip gently exposed Gus to being away from home, adding another layer of independence, excitement, and growth.
In Middle School, experiential learning became the norm. While COVID delayed some adventures, Gus explored the American Southwest and Costa Rica. Each experience stretched his comfort zone. His confidence was further shaped by the Community Project and the school's robust commitment to service. And while Gus missed HATCH Week, our younger son Luke, now in Grade 8, has gained so much from it.
Upper School expanded the world even further: Grade 10 Expeditions ventured to Italy, Belize, and Iceland. The Great Outdoor Adventure Team, which we lovingly call GOAT, hiked, climbed, and camped across the Northwest. (s)Electives traveled to Japan, Brazil, South Korea, and the Netherlands (you can learn more about that on page 10). The Global Alliance brought students to Namibia and Australia, and language-based exchange programs offered students immersive experiences in Mexico, China, and Argentina.
What makes this program truly extraordinary is Annie Wright’s unwavering commitment to equity: with the exception of exchange programs, these travel experiences come at no additional cost to families. Every trip—across the state, country, or world—is fully covered by tuition. This is almost unheard of in the independent school world.
Why? Because we believe that experiential learning is essential, not optional. We believe that stepping beyond the classroom provides students with context about other people’s lives and about their own. We believe it deepens academic learning and builds empathy, perspective, and confidence. And by embedding these trips into our operating budget, we ensure that every AWS student can benefit.
I am proud to lead a school that so fully invests in its values, and prouder still of what it has done for our family. Gus’s decision to travel across the world, speaking only conversational Spanish (at best) and living with a host family he’s never met, speaks volumes about the kind of young person AWS has helped him become.
With immense appreciation for the educators, programs, and community that make this possible, thank you. Annie Wright has made a profound difference for our students, just as it has for so many others.
Sincerely,
Jake Guadnola Head of Schools
Congratulations yellow ties!
You Say Goodbye...
CELEBRATING OUR FIRST TACOMA SCHOLAR GRADUATES AND WELCOMING NEW YELLOW TIES TO GRADE 9
In the fall of 2021, the first cohort of the Tacoma Scholars program walked through the doors of Annie Wright Schools. Created to better reflect the rich cultural diversity of Tacoma, the Tacoma Scholars program welcomed eight students on campus to begin their journey as AWS Gators. Now, the Class of 2025 marks a major milestone as the program’s first graduating class, highlighting both the growth of the program and its vital role in our community.
In April 2025, Tacoma Scholars from all tie colors, as well as their friends and families, gathered to share a meal, reflect on the upcoming graduation of the Yellow Ties, and welcome the next class of Yellow Ties—current Grade 8 students from across the city—into the community. As part of the celebration, Yellow Tie Zuri Smith ’25 delivered a heartfelt speech to usher in the next generation of Tacoma Scholars, which you can read on page 32. ☺
...and I Say Hello!
A Note from Ms. Alicia, Director of Community Engagement
My journey with Annie Wright Schools started in 2012, as a parent. My daughter Kayla, Class of 2020, began Grade 5 that year, and I joined the staff in 2015.
Directing the Tacoma Scholars program is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do. I often describe my role as part auntie, part coach, and part connector. I help them navigate school, celebrate wins, access resources, and stay rooted in who they are while growing into who they’re becoming.
This graduating Yellow Tie class of Tacoma Scholars holds a special place in my heart. They are the first group I got to journey and build with. I’ve seen their growth, their resilience, their pain, and their joy. I’ve seen them become leaders in our school, in their communities, and in their own lives. They are a powerful reminder of why the Tacoma Scholars program exists.
Meeting the incoming Yellow Tie class this spring was equally as meaningful. There’s something magical about watching a new cohort come together. Each student brings a different story and a fresh energy that motivates the work we do. I look forward to the fall and witnessing them begin to connect with each other and with us.
To the graduating Yellow Ties, my message is simple: You did that. You have what you need, and the world needs what you have. Be a curious, caring, and risk-taking leader. Ask for help when you need it and share what you have to give. I love you! ☺
MORE THAN A TRIP: CARIE WARD'S VISION FOR GLOBAL LEARNING AT AWS
transitioned from the Middle School to a newly created role: Director of Student Experience and Global Initiatives—a position born from AWS’s 2021–2025 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes global alliances and outdoor learning.
While she may appear to be a travel planner extraordinaire, Carie’s work goes far beyond logistics. With intention and heart, she designs programs that extend student learning into the real world, crafting meaningful, immersive experiences for Upper School travelers.
She now oversees a robust slate of travel opportunities, including (s)Elective travel, the Global Alliance Exchange, Spanish and Mandarin Language Exchanges, and the GOAT (Great Outdoor Adventure Team). All of which are included in tuition with the exception of the language exchanges.
“The main goal for my first year in this role is ensuring that parents, students, and faculty all understand that Annie Wright’s travel programs are not tourism,” said Carie. “These trips are so intentional as learning experiences. Students might take a cooking class or go see a hockey game, but we are aiming to make community connections and engage in hands-on learning related to lines of inquiry.”
Carie joined Annie Wright Schools in 2022, initially teaching Middle School Language and Literature and Individuals and Societies. Before that, she spent 23 years teaching at the elementary level and leading outdoor programming, making her no stranger to learning beyond the classroom.
Given the breadth of AWS’ travel offerings, careful planning is essential. “It’s one of the reasons they created this position,” Carie explained. “When there's not someone who can take the lead on all of the thought and planning that goes into these trips, I think it’s easy to lose that intentionality.”
One of the most distinctive programs is (s)Elective Travel. Early in the year, students in their (s)Electives identify their lines of inquiry, and Carie works with them to find domestic or international trips aligned with their goals.
“I think the (s)Electives program is unique. I don’t know of anything quite like it at other schools. They are like a cross between a class and a club. They have the rigor of a class and the expectation of commitment,” she said.
The topics covered in (s)Electives—such as Automotive Arts, Business, and
Fashion, to name a few—are not part of the traditional curriculum. Instead, they provide a dedicated space for students with serious interests in these fields.
“Each (s)Elective has a dedicated faculty member ensuring that actual learning and growth occur, making it different from a club, where students might simply gather for fun activities. This structure allows students to explore their passions without the added stress of grades while still maintaining the depth of a structured learning environment,” Carie explained.
At the start of each school year, students attend a (s)Elective pitch session, where current participants share their experiences before new students make their selections.
“Once a student commits, we expect them to remain engaged. If they find that a (s)Elective isn’t working for them at the end of their first semester or first year, they can switch, but after that, we encourage long-term commitment.”
If a student is involved in their (s)Elective program for one school year, they are encouraged to attend their (s)Elective trips. Since these trips are funded by the school, Carie ensures the trips align with the three to five major learning objectives identified by the (s)Electives at the beginning of the year.
“For example, this spring, the Business (s)Elective traveled to South Korea and visited Samsung, Hyundai, the National Bank, the Korean Parliament, and the Port of Pyeongtaek. The Auto Arts (s)Elective traveled to Detroit, where they explored the Model T plant, an innovation lab for cutting-edge car design, and the history of car culture. Each trip is designed to deepen students’ understanding of their field while also fostering personal and cultural growth,” said Carie.
Beyond (s)Electives, Upper School students can also travel through the Global Alliance Exchange, Language Exchanges, Grade 10 Expeditions, and outdoor education programs.
“We experience the world differently when we step out of our comfort zones, and I believe travel is essential in helping students discover who they are, how they relate to the world, and how they engage with others,” Carie said.
She continued, “One of our school's guiding principles is to prepare students to take courageous, independent action in the world. Travel plays a key role in fostering independence, responsibility, and meaningful interactions with diverse communities. Beyond practical skills, travel helps students develop empathy,
cultural awareness, and adaptability— skills that are crucial for becoming thoughtful, engaged citizens of the world.”
In every aspect of her work, Carie is focused on helping students connect classroom learning with the wider world— building curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning in the process. ☺
BISHOP PADDOCK AWARDS
RECIPIENTS: JAN BUENNAGEL, MALCOLM DAVIDSON, AND JEAN YOUNG
The Bishop Paddock award honors members of the Annie Wright Schools community who have given time, service, and support for the greater good of Annie Wright Schools through outstanding leadership and commitment to our mission. These speeches were originally written and delivered by AWS current and former faculty and have been edited for length.
Jan Buennagel
Presented by Jake Guadnola, Head of Schools
When I was a Grade 4 student at AWS, my class was told, “You’re with Mr. B.” We were a little motley crew down in the library, and in comes this bearded and slightly bellied man. I remember someone said, “You’re going to love him. He’s going to be a great teacher.”
Jan started here in 1985, and there are few parts of this school he hasn’t touched: Grade 4 and 5, the dorms, the boarding program, math, advising—he’s done it all. And even after three years in Turkey teaching abroad, he came back. I remember how special that felt to have him return and finish his career here, with us.
Jan, the families you’ve impacted span continents. Your love and care have shaped generations of students and parents alike. As you take your final walks through these halls, I hope you know your legacy at this school will echo for generations.
Through leadership shifts, curriculum changes, and more classroom moves than anyone should have to endure, you remained grounded and steady. That full-circle journey, ending up back in your original room, feels fitting. It mirrors who you are: reliable, thoughtful, and quietly powerful.
Something else stands out: your teaching partnerships. While many of us have had a rotating cast of colleagues, your list is short and meaningful. From Jan to Sarah to Jamie, people want to teach with you. They stay. That says everything.
They were right. Jan was that teacher. He told wild stories—did you know he went to divinity school? Every day with Jan felt like an adventure. He made us laugh, made us think, and sparked a lasting curiosity and wonder in us.
Jan has been an anchor in my life—from Grade 4 through middle school, and even now. Both my boys, Gus and Luke, had Jan too—and if you’ve had your kids taught by your own teacher, you know how powerful that is. That’s legacy. That’s community.
Like me, they remember his warm, joking seriousness—and yes, they too remember Gator Bucks.
Malcolm Davidson
Presented by Ann Dicks, Director of Lower School
Malcolm has been teaching Grade 5 at Annie Wright for 28 years—twenty-eight! That kind of longevity is rare, and it speaks volumes. Year after year, you’ve welcomed new students, some joyful, some challenging, and shown up for every one of them with belief, care, and consistency. You’ve helped launch them into middle school with hope.
You care for your teammates as much as your students—bringing the coffee, sharing ideas, supporting new teachers, and offering your insight freely. You are a deep thinker and a generous one. Whether in staff conversations or student discussions, you create space for big questions and wonder.
You’re also playful, like when you signed up for lifeguard certification just in case a swimming trip came up. That mix of preparation and adventure is so you.
And then there’s NatureBridge. Watching you out at Lake Crescent, completely in your element, it’s clear how deeply connected you are to that experience. It’s hard to imagine it without you.
Finally, one word rises above the rest: tender. The gentleness, empathy, and care you bring to your classroom and to your colleagues are a rare gift, especially as a male educator of young kids. Malcolm, your presence, thoughtfulness, and quiet magic have left a mark. We will miss you deeply, but your legacy will live on in all the ways you’ve shaped this community.
Jean Young
Presented by Jack Fallat, Former Faculty Member
Truly the Swiss Army knife of educators— or better yet, the Swiss Army Knight—it’s only fitting we celebrate Jean Young.
Jean’s journey at Annie Wright began in the early ’80s, shortly after graduating from the University of Puget Sound. Starting as a tutor, she quickly moved
into part-time teaching, then full-time, eventually becoming a beloved Grade 2 teacher and a cornerstone of our school.
But Jean’s legacy stretches far beyond the classroom. When asked to take on Odyssey of the Mind—later Destination Imagination—she didn’t hesitate. That “absolutely” turned into years of guiding students through wildly creative challenges, building elaborate projects with cardboard, wire, and duct tape. Her DI coaching was legendary—equal parts chaos and brilliance—and yes, always in costume. She also took on the less glamorous tasks with enthusiasm: DI gift drops, summer camp leadership, and launching House Colors, which turned our school into a Hogwarts-like world of friendly competition. Many traditions, like the House Cup and our unforgettable May Day celebrations, bear her touch.
Speaking of May Day, perhaps no Jean story captures her spirit better than May Day 2011. It was Christian Sullivan’s first year as Head of School, and when asked who made the final call about holding May Day indoors or out, the answer was simple: “Jean Young will make the decision.” Jean, ever gracious, told him, “Mr. Sullivan, I’ll make the decision in your office—and you’ll be the first to know.” And she did—balancing weather, logistics, and student hopes with ease. The call was perfect, and the day was beautiful.
Jean, thank you for being a mentor, a creative force, a calm in the chaos, and a guardian of tradition. Annie Wright is immeasurably better because of you. ☺
To learn more about Jean’s time at AWS, see the Summer 2024 issue of Strength
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RETIREMENT!
Jan Buennagel:
I first came to Annie Wright in 1985 after being introduced to Bob Klarsch and Jack Fallat by my wife, right after a Powder Puff football game. That Friday meeting turned into a substitute PE job by Monday, followed by a full-time Grade 4 position in the spring. Aside from a threeyear teaching stint in Istanbul, I’ve been here ever since—37 years in total.
Over the years, I’ve taught Grades 3, 4, and 5, and worked as a math specialist, ran our Summer International Program, and spent 19 years in the dorms—one as head of dorm. I also coached Middle and Upper School Girls Basketball. I’ve seen the school transform from spiral staircases and grass fields to major campus expansions, but the heart of AWS has always remained the same: awesome students, great parents, and an incredible teaching crew.
Some of my favorite memories include coaching alongside Rhondi Adair and Jake Guadnola, faculty get-togethers, and
Malcolm Davidson: I came to Annie Wright because of Bob Klarsch, my dad’s college roommate and a key mentor, who inspired both my move to the University of Puget Sound and ultimately a career in education. I’ve now spent 28 years here teaching Grade 5, drawn by a love of learning and curiosity about how students think.
The school has grown tremendously—once small enough to fit in the chapel for opening day, it’s been under near-constant construction over the past decade. The shift to PYP and IB has transformed us as a learning institution, and I think Greater Tacoma increasingly sees us for what we are today, not what we were.
Some of my favorite memories include the “Wednesday morning show”—faculty breakfast catchups filled with laughter—and of course, the joy of former students returning to say I made a difference. That’s what stays with me.
working closely with students in both the classroom and dorm. I especially cherished the Lower School Christmas Program in the Chapel—it was always my favorite event of the year.
Throughout my career, I’ve held onto the belief that it’s all about the kids. They each want to learn, and in time, they’ll find their own path—we’re just here to help guide them. They’ve taught me patience, trust in my instincts, and reminded me that even if you’re called “mom,” “dad,” or once, memorably, “grandpa,” you’re making an impact.
As I look ahead to retirement, I’m not entirely sure what’s next—probably
MAY DAY AWARDS
The
Sullivan
“Strength in Leadership” Award
to a member of the AWS community whose leadership has actively enhanced the mission of the schools, and demonstrably advanced the institution from strength to strength. Key characteristics of the award recipient include vision, creativity, accountability, intellectual curiosity, and decisiveness in matters familiar and challenging.
Jeff Barber is the well-deserving recipient of the 2025 Sullivan “Strength in Leadership” Award. For over seventeen years, Jeff has embodied principled, student-centered leadership—balancing high standards with deep empathy and always leading by example. His vision was key in developing a sustainable, responsive staffing model for residential life, ensuring students and staff alike feel supported and empowered. Whether he’s racing down ski slopes or playfully roaming the dorms with a Nerf gun, Jeff leads with a rare blend of care, integrity, and joy. His impact on the Annie Wright community is lasting and profound.
The Beverly Brown Excellence in Teaching Award is given to the faculty member who most successfully challenges, motivates, and supports students.
For the past 20 years, Laura Kiely-Kukreja has been a guiding force at Annie Wright Schools, shaping the Learning Support program into the robust, student-centered resource it is today. What began as a team of three is now a thriving department of ten—thanks in large part to Laura’s vision, dedication, and expertise. Her work has always centered students: offering compassionate support to Lower School learners as they build foundational skills, and serving as a trusted advocate for those in the intermediate grades. Families find in Laura both insight and empathy, gaining a clearer understanding of their children as learners. Her impact is lasting, and her care has set a powerful example for our entire community.
HATCH WEEK: BRINGING INTERDISCIPLINARY LEARNING TO LIFE
A core element of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program is interdisciplinary learning—encouraging students to see how different subjects connect and apply to the real world. In the Middle School, that idea sparked the creation of HATCH Week, a program now in its second year.
“It came out of a desire to make sure we were truly living out the philosophy of interdisciplinary learning, which is so key in the IB,” said Kelly Ward, the IB Middle Years Programme Coordinator. “Technically, interdisciplinary units are a requirement for the MYP program. We took a look at how we could strengthen that element of our middle school education by having a week dedicated to doing that together as a community.”
HATCH is an acronym for Harness Innovation, Activate Curiosity, Think Deeply, Cultivate Understanding, and Highlight Connections. During this dedicated week and a half, students pause their regular schedules and immerse themselves in a single project, culminating in a final showcase in the Kemper Gym.
“We literally push pause on everything,” said Kelly. “Every HATCH class has at least one field trip , many have more , so we’re really trying to get kids out into the community and interacting with people who are working in these fields.”
HATCH units are designed to be engaging, hands-on, and rooted in real-world experiences. Students have participated in everything from snowshoeing at Mount Rainier to practicing wilderness first aid and search and rescue techniques. Others visited local thrift stores to collect materials for upcycled fashion design projects or learned how to play the ukulele before building their own instruments in class.
One group focused on salmon restoration, working with a local nonprofit to plant trees and explore how healthy forests support aquatic ecosystems. Another class studied sustainable tourism, with students visiting Climate Pledge Arena for a behind-the-scenes tour and exploring environmentally conscious business models—right down to sampling ice cream from a sustainable local parlor.
Grade 6 students choose from three units focused on Indigenous knowledge and environmental stewardship, including native plants, the Lushootseed language, and restoration efforts grounded in Coast Salish perspectives. Grades 7 and 8 choose from six interdisciplinary classes and work in mixed-grade groups.
“What’s really key about these relationships is helping students understand how the topics they’re learning on campus are relevant out in the community,” said Kelly. “Putting faces to that is such a big part of why we involve community partners. These people are living what we’re studying.”
The immersive format, spending multiple days focused on one topic, offers students a different way of learning that many find energizing. “It’s a really different experience to be doing one course intensively for a week and a half instead of moving around from class to class,” Kelly said. “For some kids, things click in that space that don’t always click in a traditional setting.”
That excitement was clear when Kelly overheard a student during a wilderness cooking activity say, “Oh my gosh, this is the best week of my life. I love this. This is so much fun!”
“That’s why HATCH Week is so important,” said Kelly. “It gives students opportunities to see learning in a different way, where different disciplines come together to strengthen one another. It’s not just about covering content. It’s about helping students understand how knowledge connects and how it shows up in the world around them. ☺
“I was in the Wander Wisely group focused on eco-friendly travel. Our field trip to Climate Pledge Arena and Molly Moon’s Ice Cream helped us see how they were eco-conscious. I learned that Climate Pledge Arena is the first carbon-neutral arena and how to travel sustainably on a budget.” — Robyn Reed ’30
“I participated in the Growing Native Plant Knowledge group, and I enjoyed learning facts about plants. One fascinating thing I learned is that some plants “talk” to each other. They release chemicals into the air or soil to communicate. For example, when a plant is attacked by pests, it can release chemicals that warn nearby plants to boost their defenses. One thing that I learned about them is photosynthesis. This is the process where plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to make their own food and produce oxygen.” — Allie Cai, ’31
COMMUNITY PARTNER SPOTLIGHT:
Elise Bill-Gerrish
“I worked with the Restoring Wild Waters Hatch Group. My favorite part of HATCH Week was the interactive pieces. We made fish traps and trapped Swedish Fish in them. It was also fun to eat them afterward. I learned about the ways native people trapped fish, weaved, and developed their culture even when it was almost taken away because of the assimilation of European Americans.”
— Penelope Deem ’31
“I was in the Learning Lushootseed HATCH group, and our final project was making a video story that was inspired by Native American stories. We used some Lushootseed words in our story. Something that I was surprised by was the language itself! I love how it feels in your mouth to speak the Lushootseed language. It feels very natural and soothing. I am very interested in linguistics, so I was happy to learn that the spelling was phonetic!” — Nate Farach ’31
My daughter Lily will be in Grade 2 at AWS, and during our first year, when Lily was in Kindergarten, some middle school teachers invited me to share my background as a Muckleshoot Language teacher and traditional plants educator during HATCH Week. I love teaching, so I was honored and excited to contribute in this way.
Throughout our sessions, I introduced students to the Muckleshoot Language alphabet, common phrases, plant names, and deeper cultural context. We explored aspects of local Native history and traditional plant knowledge, including Lushootseed words and uses for local plants. A favorite activity this year was creating bath salts using cedar and wild rose—a hands-on project that connected language, culture, and land in a memorable way. The student’s excitement and enthusiasm reminded me why I love teaching so much. It’s been a rewarding experience. The middle schoolers are respectful, curious, and genuinely excited to learn. Whether practicing the Lushootseed alphabet or crafting their own bath salts, they engaged thoughtfully and brought great energy to each session. Shout-out to their amazing teachers for making the magic of HATCH Week possible!
“Inquiry visits are so important for our Lower School students because they allow them to take their learning out of the classroom and extend their learning by making these important connections,” explained Lower School Director Ann Dicks. “It’s also an important vehicle that allows our students to see themselves as part of our broader community, as members of a community beyond Annie Wright. They are fun and engaging and add a dimension to the units of inquiry that makes them even more special.”
—Ann Dicks, Lower School Director
LOWER SCHOOL TAKES LEARNING OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
Whether they’re sketching wetlands at Nisqually, building instruments in the Toolbox Lab, or performing with the Seattle Symphony, Annie Wright Lower School students are learning that the world is their classroom. Through hands-on inquiry visits tied to their units of study, students from Kindergarten through Grade 5 step beyond the walls of their school and into the broader community—connecting ideas, sparking curiosity, and discovering their place in the world around them.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten students engaged in a rich, interdisciplinary exploration of storytelling, homes, and life cycles through hands-on learning experiences that sparked creativity and curiosity. During a special visit from Tacoma Little Theatre, students saw how stories come to life on stage, inspiring them to express themselves in new ways. In connection with their study of homes, they visited the Toolbox Laboratory to build musical instruments and discovered how orchestras, like families, bring together diverse voices under one roof. Their exploration of how the world works continued at M.P. Acres Farms, where they observed the cycles of nature firsthand—gaining insight into how living things grow, change, and thrive in their environments.
Grade 1
This year, Grade 1 students explored big ideas about who we are, how we live, and the world around us through hands-on adventures across their community—and beyond! They studied public art and identity by viewing colorful murals in downtown Tacoma, and then followed the journey of food
from farm to table with a tasty trip to the Tacoma Farmer’s Market. At Joint Base Lewis-McChord, students got up close to helicopters and military vehicles while learning how transportation supports communities. Their curiosity soared even higher during a visit to the Pierce College Planetarium, where they traveled through stars and galaxies, sparking wonder about our place in the universe.
Grade 2
At the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge, they sketched wetlands and wildlife, using nature as both inspiration and subject, and then returned to study local ecosystems up close— discovering how plants, animals, and habitats work together to thrive. Their journey continued at the Pierce College Planetarium, where they traveled through time and space to learn how navigation and exploration have shaped our understanding of Earth and the stars. At the Museum of Flight, students rolled up their sleeves to investigate the forces behind motion and flight, connecting big physics ideas to real-world inventions. Whether with pencils, telescopes, or hands-on experiments, students explored how our world works—and how they fit into it.
Grade 3
Grade 3 students engaged in a rich exploration of the world around them. At Dune Peninsula Park, they studied the geography of western Washington—examining coastal landforms, volcanic impact, and the influence of Mount Rainier on regional climate—which sparked comparisons to eastern Washington’s distinct landscape. Their curiosity extended to the natural world, where visits to Northwest Trek, Voight Creek Hatchery, and the Puget Sound Natural History Museum offered firsthand encounters with native animals and the adaptations that help them survive in diverse ecosystems. Students also expressed themselves through music, participating in “Link Up” with the Seattle Symphony, where weeks of recorder practice culminated in a joyful performance alongside peers from across the region. Finally, field trips to the Pierce County Emergency Operations Center and Joint Base Lewis-McChord gave students insight into how individuals and systems respond to challenges, deepening their understanding of community, responsibility, and resilience.
Grade 4
Their inquiry into caring for the planet took them to the Compost Factory, where they examined the path of organic waste and reflected on sustainable practices. A visit to the Washington State Capitol brought government studies to life, as students explored the three branches and considered their role as active citizens. At the Washington State History Museum, students investigated how design and innovation have evolved over time, deepening their understanding of how creativity shapes the world around us.
Grade 5
Grade 5 students engaged in a year of inquirydriven learning that connected entrepreneurship, environmental impact, and the power of personal voice. Their study of how societies organize themselves began with visits to three small
businesses owned by AWS families, where students heard directly from entrepreneurs about the innovation, resilience, and passion that fuel successful ventures. They then turned their focus to the environment, exploring how human choices shape ecosystems through visits to Voight Creek Hatchery, the LOTT/WET Science Center, and Nisqually Wildlife Refuge. These experiences culminated in a threeday overnight trip to NatureBridge in Olympic National Park, where students investigated the ecological and cultural effects of dams, particularly on salmon populations and Native communities. Rounding out the year, a visit to Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop) inspired students to consider the role of voice in sparking change. Through music, media, and storytelling, they reflected on how individuals make a difference—and how they, too, can use their voices to advocate for a better world. ☺
In Grade 4, students connected brain science, civic engagement, environmental stewardship, and local history. They began by exploring how we learn, with a community-building day at Point Defiance Park followed by a visit to the University of Washington’s Neurosciences department, where they discovered how scientists study the brain and what current research reveals about growth and learning.
Join the AWS Heritage Society
The Heritage Society honors alumni, parents, and friends who have made a planned or deferred gift to Annie Wright Schools.
Through planned giving, you can ensure that future generations of students thrive thanks to your thoughtful investment.
By becoming a member of the Heritage Society, you play a vital role in shaping your legacy while providing lasting strength and stability to the school.
If you’ve already included Annie Wright Schools in your estate plans or would like to explore simple ways to do so, please reach out to Director of Development Grace Finch at 253.284.8604 or grace_finch@aw.org.
“I have Annie Wright Schools in my will because the school has been an important part of my life and this will be one last chance to give back and help it continue in its mission.”
Kate Dorr ’96 with children Gwen ’30 (right) and Lee ’27 (left)
HERITAGE SOCIETY MEMBERS
Jae-Chan Ahn and Young-Sun Nam
Shirley Anderson* ’52
Sally (Peterson) Atherton ’66
Grace (Brynolson) Atkinson* ’33
Elaine (Tubbs) Austin* ’36
Martine Baker-Anderson* ’57
Anne (Murray) Barbey* ’38
Ruth (Nunan) Bartells* ’26
Sue (Spiegle) Batema ’61
Rex J. Bates*
Barry and Susan Bauska
Mildred Anne (Campbell) Bechtel* ’45
Florence Behnke*
Catherine (McPherson) Bernhard* ’30
Suzanne (Baker) Bethke* ’55
Kay Bishop* ’60
Ruth Bishop* ’63
Ann Bogrette*
Dzidra Briedis*
Betty Lou (Ervin) Broderick ’53
Beverley Brown* ’41
Samuel Brown*
Alma (Corry) Campbell Fleet ’64
Laura and Mark Carlson
Patricia (Sutherland) Carver ’45
Michael Churng and Kate Dorr ’96
Tad Ellis*
Mary (Turrill) Ellis* ’39
Anne Field*
Judith (Yengling) Forkner ’63
Jane (Spencer) Foster* ’56
Will and Anne (Middleton) Foster ’70
Joan Gardner-Johnston*
Katherine (Parks) George ’61
Barbara Glasgow* ’36
Tamar Griggs* ’60
Stacey and Jake Guadnola ’90MS
Dorothea (Cragin) Hanich ’63
Pamela Hanson ’70
E. Harvey Headland*
Greta (Shaw) Heide* ’24
Allan and Melissa* (Sallee Sheldon) Hess ’63
Henry and Barbara Hewitt*
William and Anne (Fisher) Hofius* ’55
Susanne (Fisher) Hubbach* ’37
William and Elizabeth (Doud) Hyde* ’38
Mildred (Russell) Jensen* ’50
Barbara (Roberts) Kenney* ’38
Helen (Edwards) Kenney* ’46
Rebecca Kirkpatrick ’97
Susan Kirkpatrick
Janet (Ferris) Koltun-Titus ’53
James Mack Koon Jr
Elizabeth (Allen) Koons* ’36
Sally Briggs Leighton
Phyllis Lewis
Sharon Levy
John and Sara Long
Rose Magrini*
Susan* and David Manger
Patricia (Gibson) McAvity* ’60
Amy (Schanno) McCarthy* ’54
John and Burdette (Craig) McClelland* ’36
Edward and Adele (Houx) Miller* ’49
Kathryn Monroe*
Derry Ann Moritz* ’53
Allen and Elizabeth (Ayrault) Moses* ’48
Kimberley Munson ’82
Lynne (Rubush) Nickel* ’60
Marjorie Oda-Burns ’66
Yu Chin Pan*
J. Bruce and Laura (Gonyea) Partridge ’70
Cordelia (Hartwell) Puttkammer ’57
Linda (Waldherr) Riggio ’67
Marlene (Westfall) Robbins ’73
Peggy Lou (Stebbins) Roberts* ’35
Jean (Harriett) Roskos*
Frances (Young) Rushton* ’38
Ruth (McFarland) Rystogi* ’31
Robert and Eleanor Sanders*
Veronica Sauer ’86
Rand and Lynn (Beaty) Sealey ’61
Grace (Rexroth) Seaman* ’48
Kathryn (Works) Schipper ’79
Lance and Marion (Williamson) Shipley ’89
Jay and Peachy Smalling
Pamela Hyde Smith ’63
Suzanne P. Smith* ’82
Ann (Terteling) Sparks* ’53
Barbara (Brooks) Spaulding* ’34
Mary Jane Stamm* ’42
Susan (Backus) Stoller ’66
Waldo and Norma (Gjertsen) Stone*
Herman Tenzler*
Eleanor (Walker) Threlkel ’55
Camilla Titcomb*
Mary Trodden ’69
Bob and Emily (McFadon) Vincent ’49
Kristen Wallerich ’75
Marilyn (Muckey) Walter* ’44
Barbara Jean White Eckles
Peter and Karen (Warren) Wickstrand ’60
Holly (Hewitt) Wight ’61
Wilbur Woodhams*
Virginia (Baker) Woolf* ’36
*Heritage Society members noted with an asterisk have already left their legacy at Annie Wright Schools.
The Dorr Family
Oh, what a night!
Thank you to all of our Gator community who joined for this year’s Crab Feed and Auction! On March 15, 2025, nearly 400 community members gathered to “Crab” a paddle in support of AWS. Thanks to our auction chair, Amy Condon, committee, and sponsors for an unforgettable evening. See you next year for Gator Gala!
250 lbs
1
370 ˜200 1 of crab live guests photobooth great band captures party!
??? & ??? INVITE YOU TO PLEASE
September 19–20
Get ready to come home for Alumni Weekend 2025! Enjoy a weekend filled with campus tours, special events foryour class, and plenty of opportunities to catch up with old friends and make new connections. While all alumni are welcome, we especially look forward to celebrating milestone reunions with the classes ending in 5 and 0.
— SCHEDULE —
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
4:00 pm Campus tours, browse treasured items from the archives, and more opportunities to connect and explore.
6:00 pm Alumni Cocktail Party
Portland, Oregon
These fabulous Portland area alumni gathered for wine flights and dinner at Amaterra Winery, where they shared updates and laughter. We caught Sasha mid-move to Eugene for a new job, but she was still able to join us between loads of furniture and clothes, and we are grateful. Christy and Ruby are particularly eager to grow this Portland area gathering, so Annie Wright Alumni in the Portland area can look forward to hearing from them directly.
Oakland, California
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
10:00 am Alumni Chapel 11:00 am Alumni Champagne Brunch
Visit aw.org/alumni for schedule updates, class events and community engagement opportunities.
This Oakland crew soaked in some California sunshine while enjoying a patio brunch and exchanging updates and stories. From weekend trips to roommate woes, balancing workload and interests between humanities courses and science labs, and keeping track of classmates across the country and world, the conversation covered a lot of ground.
Seattle, Washington
Jarrod Larse, Thao Nguyen “Jenny” Hoang ’24, Monica Huggins, Kiran Hutchinson ’23, Amelia HerrmannScholbe ’24, Connor Enebrad ’22, Samantha Salamone ’22, Fanya “Lilian” Yuan ’22, Clara Kingsbury ’24, and Sophie Nguyen ’24
We had a wonderful time reconnecting with our Seattle-area alums from the University of Washington and Seattle University at Piatti’s in U-Village! The evening was filled with laughter and great conversation as we shared stories from college life, from surviving midterms and enjoying Greek life to discovering new communities through clubs and student organizations.
Qiying “Bebby” Liu ’23, Yizhou “Flora” Hu ’24, Griffin Chen ’23, and Kyra Mungia ’09
Ruby McConnel ’88, Sasha Chang ’18, Christine (Smith) Griffiths ’95
On the Road
with AWS Alumni
Baltimore, Maryland
Max Bessler ’14MS & Alexandra Bessler ’20
Siblings Max and Alex joined Director of Development Grace Finch in Baltimore. It was great timing to catch up with the siblings as Max was visiting his younger sister in her new city. Alex is working on her Masters at Johns Hopkins, and Max, who has been in the D.C. area for a while now, is in between things and exploring his opportunities.
Washington D.C.
Nicholas Cefalu ’23, MaryAlice Parks ’04, Regan (Armstrong) Lamb ’92, Lucy Gregory ’04US, and Nina Ye ’20
Our DC crew chatted for nearly four hours over a tasting menu of tapas, generously sponsored by Regan. They all shared how they landed in Washington, D.C., how they fell into their careers and education paths, and memories from their time at AWS.
Chicago, Illinois
Karen (Smith) DeBolt ’92, Safa Saeed ’17, and Audrey Leonard ’20
Karen hosted a wonderful gathering in her Chicago home. The group enjoyed champagne, updates, and lots of laughter. Personal and professional connections were made, and it is just the beginning for our small but mighty (and already growing) Chicago cohort.
Ketchum, Idaho
Hurlaine "Hurley" (Johnson) Hamilton ’69 & Julie Johnson
Sisters Hurley and Julie planned a lovely outdoor dinner at Knob Hill in Ketchum, Idaho. The sisters are thirdgeneration Annie Wright alumnae (though Julie ultimately graduated elsewhere) and shared some of the funny stories and memories that come with multigenerational connections and interactions on campus.
Sun Valley, Idaho
It was a sunny lunch in Sun Valley for these three alumnae. We all swapped stories and comparisons from the 1960s, early 2000s, and 2020,s including chapel, uniform, athletics, and travel.
Palo Alto, California
Charles Stringfellow ’23 & Sasha Zhang ’23
Charles and Sasha took a break from midterm prep for brunch in Palo Alto. These two Green Ties are enjoying Stanford University and the beautiful Palo Alto weather.
Alexandria, Virginia
Jessi Ruth Macleod ’60
Jessi was happy to hear highlights and updates from her alma mater and share lunch in her condo building that overlooks the Potomac River.
Christina (Engl) Carroll ’60, Margund “Gundl” (Primus) Haskell ’61, Lucy Gregory ’04US
CLASS NOTES
Lynn (Beaty) Sealey ’61
I am co-director with artist Keiko Hara of the Mokuhanga Project Space, founded by Keiko in 2016. We host one-day workshops and ten-day residencies. In June, four artists will come to Walla Walla from Edinburgh, Scotland, Italy, Alabama, and Chicago for a residency. Otherwise, I stay busy with a Wednesday walking group I started at the beginning of COVID. Birding is good over here, and the local Audubon members are active. Not so much wine tasting for me these days without Rand.
Dr. Marie (Dodge) Eaton ’64
I joined an online writing group at the beginning of the pandemic. Five years later, we are still writing together six days a week. Ginger Glawe (class of '64) is also a member, and it's been wonderful reconnecting with her. After five years of writing most days, I have published four volumes of poetry, with another due out this fall. I also continue to work with the Palliative Care Institute at Western Washington University. Our mission is to provide education around serious illness and end-of-life care to providers and community members.
Maurine (Roper)
Butterworth ’67
Gerry and I just celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary! We retired and moved to the Big Island in 2011, enjoying a lovely home in Captain Cook and learning how to raise coffee. In 2013, we retired from that and are now living in Kona. Our sons and families from Seattle and Taiwan visit yearly. I’m very thankful for technology to keep up with them in between.
Carolyn Burkhart ’69 MS
I am excited to be heading off to Nepal in March to trek in the Himalayas with Brown Gal Trekkers for two months. Then I’ll be teaching English to elementary students just east of the Altai Mountains in Mongolia. Maybe Kazakhstan after that. I’m following the maternal DNA path of my ancestors from long ago, starting in the Altai Mountains and trekking west, eventually northbound to Norway. I am so thankful Annie Wright encouraged me to follow my dreams, one step at a time.
Karen Gundersen-Nutting ’82
Karen stopped by campus with her son Jacob to show him around. They took a peek into the Great Hall, Raynor Chapel, and Bamford Commons before posing for a photo on the “Senior Stairs.”
Amy Wildt ’84
My family and I moved back to Washington last September. We love being close to my dad, who lives on First Hill, and two of my daughters, who are attending Seattle University. We also love being back in the Pacific Northwest, enjoying the natural beauty and all four seasons. We moved from Houston after living there for 10 years, and the only season seemed to be summer.
Merritt (Klarsch) Pulliam ’92
I live in Houston with my husband, Travis, and daughter, Georgia. Last year, I was
lucky enough to take some wonderful trips. Here is a photo from a family trip to Italy to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary.
Safa Saeed ’17, Audrey Johnson ’23 & Karen (Smith) DeBolt ’92
These three alums reunited on May 9, after meeting one another at our On The Road event in Chicago, to celebrate Audrey’s completion of her MCAT. It is good to have fellow alumni to mark milestones, near or far!
Julia Henning ’21
Julia graduated magna cum laude from Northeastern University with a degree in Journalism and Political Science. While there, she co-oped in Guatemala with the Education for the Children Foundation and with UCSB Athletics, where she discovered her passion for collegiate sports. She also traveled to London to produce a documentary on the Premier League. On campus, she was active in Social Media Ambassadors, Husky Ambassadors, and No Limits Dance Crew. Julia is now pursuing an M.A. in Public Relations and Advertising at USC, where she’ll also serve as a Graduate Assistant in Athletic Communications.
Elizabeth (Ellie) Park ’23
Ellie is currently studying neuroscience and bioethics at the University of Washington. As an undergraduate researcher, she worked on neuropathology research with the UW Laboratory Medicine team. She was able to connect with the team as they visited and gave a talk when she was a sophomore at AWS. For her project, she looked at the correlation of Tau and TDP-43 copathology, which hopefully helps to provide a new avenue for neurodegenerative disease research and treatments. She looks forward to studying more on this topic over the next year!
8 Rae Wartelle ’23
I’ve just completed my second year of film studies at Connecticut College, where I co-captain the volleyball team, play bass in the orchestra, and host a campus radio show. This summer, I’ll return home to Tacoma to film a documentary on the local housing crisis over the course of eight weeks, funded by the Sharis ’86 & Thorn ’88 Pozen Endowed Fund for Excellence in Journalism, Writing, and Media. I look forward to sharing the finished work!
Reese Wang ’24
Reese is currently a freshman at UC Berkeley and exploring various professional interests as an undecided major. She recently participated in the Goldman Sachs virtual summit and is looking forward to working on projects with the consulting club she joined. Additionally, she started her own college counseling service with her close friends from Annie Wright!
WELCOME!
NEW BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Suzanne Messinger
With nearly 25 years in education across Massachusetts, Hawaii, and Washington, Suzanne has extensive experience in consulting, teaching, coaching, and leadership, including over 20 years in independent schools. Since 2017, Suzanne has been the head of Hyla School, a 6–12 school on Bainbridge Island, Washington.
Before leading Hyla, Suzanne was the Assistant Head of School at the Jewish Day School of Metropolitan Seattle for nine years, following her tenure in Kauai, Hawaii, where she worked as a teacher, coach, and Athletic Director. Suzanne works to cultivate and strengthen the practices that foster inclusivity, community, and belonging, alongside engaging academic programs where students can thrive. Suzanne is also deeply engaged in association and volunteer work in the field of education. With a longstanding appreciation for NWAIS—its mission, values, and people—she has served as a governor on the NWAIS Board since 2022, currently chairs the Accreditation Committee, and will begin her term as Vice President/President-Elect of the Board of Governors on July 1, 2025.
Dianne Matthaei
Dianne came to Annie Wright Schools as the first Learning Specialist in the Upper School for Girls in 2009. In 2017, she became the first Learning Specialist and one of the first faculty members in the new Upper School for Boys. In 2015, Dianne was awarded the Beverley Brown Excellence in Teaching Award at Annie Wright. Before coming to Annie Wright, she operated her own business, Lighthouse Learning, LLC, which provided assessment and instruction of atypical learners. In her spare time she enjoys reading, hiking, water skiing, and most of all spending time with her family, especially her children.
Amber English
Amber English is the President of Digital and Online at The Estée Lauder Companies, where she has led transformative digital initiatives for the past three years. In her role, she oversees the global digital strategy, e-commerce growth, and technology innovation across the company’s prestigious portfolio of beauty brands. Prior to joining Estée Lauder, Amber spent 14 years at Amazon, where she held various leadership roles across business units and technology teams, helping to shape and scale some of the company’s most impactful digital platforms. Her earlier career included roles in the fashion industry with Gap Inc. and Giorgio Armani, blending her passion for design and commerce. Amber is also a committed advocate for diversity in technology and currently serves as the Executive Sponsor of Women in Tech at Estée Lauder Companies, where she champions initiatives to support and advance women in technical and digital roles.
She studied at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and now lives in Gig Harbor, Washington, with her husband, Michael, and their two children, Harper and Hudson, who attend Annie Wright Schools.
Kalyan Kanneganti
Kalyan Kanneganti, MD, joined the Annie Wright Schools Board of Trustees in 2025. He is a gastroenterologist with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. From 2004 to 2011, Kalyan completed his medical training—including residency and fellowship—at BronxCare Health System in New York City, an affiliate of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He remained there as a member of the teaching faculty before relocating to Tacoma in 2017. He also served on the medical advisory board for Franciscan Digestive Care Associates. Kalyan is the parent of two middle school students at Annie Wright, who will graduate in 2031 and 2032. He is a strong advocate for experiential learning and for preparing students to become empowered, responsible global citizens. He looks forward to serving on the Governance Committee.
With strength in our hearts, we remember those we have lost from the Annie Wright Schools community.
Shannon Grant—’96MS
Virginia (Brown) Liebergesell Faculty
Nadira (Adatia) Gularte ’04
Sheila (Hancock) McKay ’65
Phyllis Ann (Snyder) Ebersole ’59
Sharon (Ryder) Lekas ’56
Paula Feddersen ’54
Marilyn (Wotton) Louderback ’54
Marilyn (Earley) Lepape ’52
Senior Leadership Team
Jake Guadnola ’90MS, Head of Schools
Sandra Forero Bush, Assistant Head of Schools
Jeff Barber, Director of Residential Life
Eireann Corrigan, Director of Upper School for Girls
Ann Dicks, Director of Lower School
Grace Finch, Director of Development
Mike Finch, Director of Athletics
Annie Green, Director of Arts
Alicia Grover Pugh, Director of Community Engagement
Jeremy Stubbs, Director of Upper School for Boys
Clare Wagstaff-Brown, Director of Middle School
Jean Webber, Director of Finance and Operations
Board of Trustees
David Overton—Chair Janelle
Guirguis-Blake—Vice Chair
Alana Zautner—Secretary
Kevin Sanders—Treasurer
Jim Defebaugh—Prior Chair
Sally Atherton ’66
Diane Bai
Thomas Baker
Troy T. Bailey
Medina Broadenax
Tenley Cederstrand
Bill Driscoll
Amber English
C’Ardiss Gardner Gleser
Editor
Gena Wynkoop
Graphic Designer
Lillian Austin
Photographer
Sy Bean
Lisa Blackmore
Oona Copperhill
Gena Wynkoop
Jason Griffiths
Kalyan Kanneganti
Manuel La Rosa
Martha Lantz
Damani Leech ’90MS
Dianne Matthaei
Suzanne Messinger
Kyra Mungia ’09
Marjorie Oda-Burns ’66
Monica Torrez-Pfister
Jennifer Vertetis
Brian Prior (ex-officio)
Jake Guadnola (ex-officio) ’90MS
Contributors
Sandra Forero Bush
Penelope Deem ’31
Ann Dicks
Jack Fallat
Nate Farach ’31
Angela Ferguson
Grace Finch
Grace Franco
Allie Gai ’31
Alicia Grover-Pugh
Jake Guadnola ’90MS
Monica Huggins
Lindsey Joyce
Jarrod Larse
Robyn Reed ’30
Zuri Smith ’25
Shelli Strate
TACOMA SCHOLARS SPEECH
BY ZURI SMITH ’25
To my fellow Tacoma Scholars, and especially to the new Yellow Ties walking into this moment for the first time.
Let me start with this truth: You were chosen for this.
And no one is chosen lightly.
This program… it is not a handout!
It’s a handoff. A baton passed to you by every scholar who came before you. And when someone passes you the baton, that’s not just about trust, it’s about belief.
It means they saw something in you. And maybe… just maybe… you’re starting to see it too.
Let me tell you something:
You don’t need to have all the answers right now.
You don’t need to pretend like you’ve got it all figured out.
You don’t need to wear confidence like armor or hide your fear like shame. What you do need…
Is to be real. Be present. Be hungry.
I remember being new here.
That silence in your chest when you sit in the room and wonder if they made a mistake picking you.
The voice that whispers, “Don’t let them down. Don’t let yourself down.”
But here’s the truth I had to learn the hard way:
You’re not here to be perfect. You’re here to grow. To stretch. To fall. To rise.
And to keep rising, even when it doesn’t make sense to.
And when you finally rise, when you really find your footing, you will stand taller than you ever thought possible.
Not because someone pulled you up. But because you built yourself from the ground up, piece by piece.
To the new Yellow Ties, we’ve tried to leave you a path.
We’ve kept the light on.
We’ve shown you what it means to fight for something that’s bigger than yourself.
We didn’t get everything right, but we stayed in it. We held the line.
Now it’s your turn.
And I’m telling you: walk through these doors like you were meant to.
Because you were. You are. While you’re here, don’t play it safe.
Safe will keep you in the same seat. Safe will keep you quiet when you should speak.
Safe will keep you close to the crowd when your destiny is out there alone, waiting for you to meet it.
Playing it safe might protect you, but it won’t grow you.
Take risks. Ask questions.
Raise your hand.
Raise your voice. Fall forward.
Because falling forward means you’re still moving toward the goal.
It means you cared enough to try. It means you were brave enough to put yourself out there, even if you didn’t have it all figured out.
And every time you fall forward, you’re falling closer to who you’re meant to be.
And that? That’s how you win. Let me tell you something else.
There will be moments, quiet moments, when no one’s watching, when it feels easier to walk away.
When it would be so easy to settle for average… because excellence is just too hard.
But that’s the moment.
That’s the turning point. That’s where you decide who you really are.
Success isn’t about luck.
It’s about choice.
The choice to show up. The choice to do the hard thing. The choice to care when it would be easier not to.
You don’t get to excellence by convenience.
You get there by commitment. By the tiny, invisible decisions you make when no one is clapping for you.
When it’s just you and the grind. That’s what builds greatness. That’s what creates legacy.
And yes, there will be moments when you’re tired.
When you’re unsure.
When you’re standing at the crossroads between what’s easy and what’s right.
In those moments, choose the path that makes your heart beat louder.
Choose the path that scares you. Choose the one that challenges you. Because fear is not your enemy.
Fear is the gate that stands between you and everything you were meant to become.
So don’t run from it. Walk through it. Own it.
You will stumble.
You will doubt. You will fall.
But you’re not alone.
Every one of us in this program, in this room, we are bound not just by scholarship or school but by purpose.
We are not competitors. We are each other’s keepers. When you rise, we rise. When you struggle, we carry the weight with you.
This isn’t just about academics. This is about becoming. About building something in you that can never be taken away.
You’re going to get advice, good and bad. Take it in.
Weigh it against your soul.
Learn from everyone.
But let no one speak over your spirit.
You have to live with your choices. So choose boldly.
Because comfort never made anyone legendary.
Sometimes, the most important decision you’ll ever make… is simply to keep showing up. Not because it’s easy. Not because you feel ready. But because deep down, you know this is your moment.
You are not waiting for the world to hand you your legacy, you are building your own. Brick by brick. Book by book. Day by day.
And one day, someone will look at you and say:
“Because you made it, I know I can too.”
That’s the power you hold.
As for me, I’m stepping into a new beginning.
A senior now, soon to be a freshman again.
And yeah… I’m nervous. But I am not afraid.
Because what I’ve learned here, what I’ve earned here, is in my bones now. And I will use every ounce of it to become the best student, the best advocate, the best human I can be.
Not just to succeed.
But to stand for the ones who didn’t get the chance.
To speak up for those who were never heard.
To fight for what still matters. So, to every Tacoma Scholar and especially you, Yellow Ties, here is your promise:
You will not waste this gift.
You will not let fear write your story. You will not wait to be told who you are. You will decide. You will define. You will deliver.
And when the world asks what you stand for?
Say it with your chest:
“I was chosen for this. I rose to the challenge. I built something real.
I was never afraid to be excellent. And I will never stop becoming.”
Because this right here?
This isn’t just a scholarship. This is the proving ground.
This is the legacy. This is the moment.
And it’s yours.
ANNIE WRIGHT SCHOOLS
827 North Tacoma Avenue
Tacoma, Washington 98403
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