Unity Day: "Reflections on Unity"

March 8, 2002 was Unity Day at Western, and the Western family celebrated the occasion with an outstanding assembly and a day-long collaboration of students, staff, and alumnae. Activities included the assembly, a reception for guests, a student art contest, and a photography workshop. Unity Day was a collaborative effort spearheaded by teacher Karen Hodges, student Lael Ensor, Donnice Brown (President) and other members of the Alumnae Association.

Over 100 alumnae joined us for the assembly and reception, and many stayed to speak to individual classes in the afternoon about their education and professional experiences. Alumnae also chose winners in the art contest. At least 39 graduation years were represented, going back to the Class of 1932 (see the full list) and including 4 mother/daughter pairs and one grandmother/daughter/granddaughter trio of Western alumnae.

Guest speaker Julia Chance ('80), author of Sisterfriends, a collection of essays and "portraits of sisterly love" by photographer Michelle V. Agins, spoke of her experience at Western and how it enabled her work as a successful writer for numerous prestigious magazines as well as her own publications.

Another special guest, Charles Wasche, formally presented his great-grandmother Elsa M. Lucas' 1898 Western diploma and handwritten valedictory speech to the school (see special news page). Mr. Wasche praised the girls for their spirit, academic success, and sense of unity, which he likened to qualities of his great-grandmother.

As is customary at Western assemblies, students led, serving as emcees, presenters, and performers of dramatic readings, music, and dance. Performances by the Western Band, the Concert Choir, the Gospel Choir, and the Modern Dance Team highlighted the program.

Please view our photo album of Unity Day events (photographs by Nikeita Moore ('04) and Andrew Tomlinson, staff).