During this year’s Alumnae Reunion, Spence alumnae returned to the Red Doors to celebrate long standing traditions, reminisce in classrooms and discover all the ways Spence continues to thrive and evolve.

 

President of the Alumnae Association Dana Wallach Jones ’93 addressed attendees during the annual Reunion Luncheon, speaking on her experience in the role: “It has been a tremendous privilege… to be able to get to know so many wonderful women who span the decades and call Spence home,” she said. She shared the stage with alumnae parents of Spence graduating seniors, Joan Cummins ’83, Molly Lukins Burke ’93, Laura Doyle Hammam ’96, Vice President of the Alumnae Association Brooke Williams ’84 and Secretary of the Alumnae Association Stephanie Cabrera Esenwa ’97, to hand out yellow roses to the graduating Class of 2023, welcoming them to the Alumnae Association. 

Senior Class President Bea H. ’23 took to the podium, addressing her soon-to-be fellow alumnae and remarking on their significant role in the community. “Whether it be five, ten or fifty years ago, alumnae paved the path to establish and shape the community that Spence is now. The joy, curiosity and ambition are what makes a Spence student, and it is reflected not only in my classmates, but in every single Spence alumna.” 

More traditions during luncheon included the presentation of the Distinguished Alumna Award, which was presented for the first time as the newly-named Judith Joseph Jenkins ’91 Distinguished Alumna Award. The award was renamed in honor of the late Jenkins, who was a parent, member of the Board of Trustees and the Alumnae Board. “She was a stalwart volunteer who wholeheartedly believed in the good Spence does for its students,” said Jones. Bonnie Jenkins ’78 and Lauren Kleinberg Levy ’93 both received the award this year in honor of their professional accomplishments and their continued service to Spence. Learn more about both recipients here. 

Head of School Felicia Wilks gave her inaugural “View from the Seventh Floor” talk that afternoon, sharing with attendees her reflections on the year and how important alumnae are to current students. “Our alumnae community is an entity in and of itself, where women make connections with graduates of the school they never knew when they were students,” she said. “You inspire all of us with your incredible work in the world. You set diverse and powerful models for current Spence students and to the adults who teach and support learning across the school. I am proud to be among you.”

Other highlights included a panel discussion with Director of Institutional Equity Rebecca Hong and student members of the Upper School Equity council, who discussed with alumnae their process in creating a Civil Discourse Statement for Spence; a Saturday brunch; a performance by Triple Trio; guided tours; class offerings with Spence faculty and squash clinics at the 412 Squash Association.

View more photos from Reunion here.