On Oct. 19, 2024, a diverse team from Windward attended the annual Pollyanna Conference, an event that brings together representatives from over 30 schools to explore diversity, inclusion, and equity. The conference aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to become change agents in their communities.
The Windward delegation included Assistant Head of School Eric Mandel, Associate Director of the Collegiate Division Dahlia Morrone, Associate Director of Middle School Emily Dawe, Dean of Students Garret Tyau, Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning Sarah Clark, Science Department Chair Gage Loveless, Trustee Michelle Alvarez Taub, and Windward parents Sharon Eshagoff and Renee Yang. Current 7th Grader Evie A. and alum Brooke Rosenthal '15 also participated, alongside 8th Grader Elisa E. and 9th Grader Dominic Yang, who represented their elementary schools as alumni.
This year's theme, "Exploring Gender in 2024 and Beyond," featured keynote speaker Lily Zheng, author of DEI Deconstructed and Reconstructing DEI. Following her address, attendees engaged in meaningful discussions with colleagues from various schools, including Heads of School and trustees. Students created presentations to help adults better understand the student experience in independent schools.
In the final session, the Windward team collaborated to share insights, assess the School’s current initiatives, and brainstorm additional steps to enhance inclusivity within the community. This conference offered a valuable opportunity to further advance Goal 1 of Windward's Strategic Plan, reinforcing the School’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all.