The Rowland Hall community kicked off the 2025–2026 school year on Friday, August 22, with a Convocation celebration centered on this year’s theme, Better Together.

The theme, which will tie into learning opportunities and gatherings throughout the year, was identified through conversations with Upper School student leaders and divisional leaders, as well as feedback from faculty and staff. Together, these groups identified a top need in our community, and in the broader world: more time together to learn, collaborate, and grow.

Three students—Sarah Gibbons (12th), Milo C. (8th), and Noelle B. (5th)—and alumnus Alex Tokita ’21 joined Head of School Mick Gee to speak about this theme at Convocation. Each person thoughtfully reflected on what it means to be Better Together and encouraged those gathered to look for opportunities to come together and strengthen the community.

“All of our student speakers used their voices to demonstrate why putting our students at the center of community events is so powerful—their words articulated what the Rowland Hall community means to them and why we need each other now more than ever,” said Director of Equity and Inclusion Dr. Chandani Patel. “It was a beautiful start to a year of being Better Together.”

Enjoy this year’s student Convocation speeches by watching the event recording.