Senior Reflects on Growth during Hutchison Tradition
A special wave between our first graders and seniors brings back treasured memories for Ellie Bailey ’26, who came to Hutchison in first grade.
Ellie started at Hutchison as a shy girl who didn’t know what opportunities would come her way. At the start of her senior year, she is a confident leader of the Class of 2026, serving as senior class vice president, playing on the varsity soccer team, and exploring her interest in sports medicine.
“I was nervous because I moved from out of state, but when I came to Hutchison, everyone was incredibly welcoming. It’s a special place,” Ellie said. “I can truly be myself around everyone. The students and staff have helped me grow as a person.”
Like Ellie, some of our seniors stood where our first graders were almost 12 years ago. The wave between the Class of 2026 and Class of 2037 represents a powerful moment of reflection for our seniors as they start their final year at Hutchison, as well as a glimpse for our first graders of what their futures could be. This tradition touches our hearts every time!
“I remember feeling excited for the journey to come, since you can see every other grade sitting with you in the gym. I also remember looking forward to being a senior, since I felt so young at the time and ready to grow up,” she said.
“Hutchison helped me grow my confidence in myself. There are so many different leadership positions or opportunities to step out of your comfort zone and put yourself out there. I remember in first grade through probably middle school, I was really shy and really nervous, but now being a senior, I can definitely see a difference in my confidence, which I think I am most grateful for.”
Four rising seniors participated in high-intensity summer programs in subjects including international studies, technological innovation and business, education, and visual arts.
Hutchison Now highlights recent graduates early in their careers who embody how a Hutchison education can lead anywhere you can imagine. We spoke with Dorothy Oehmler, who works for Mischief Comedy in London.
Rising juniors who are part of four myExperience cohorts in Hutchison’s Institute for Responsible Citizenship – global civic engagement, entrepreneurship, STEM, and art and design – explored their respective fields of study on a trip to Miami.
Little Hive teachers Ms. Hollingsworth and Ms. Aguilar followed our youngest girls’ interest in the weather to expand their scientific knowledge and various skills, from creativity to storytelling to fine motor skills.
For her senior myExperience project, Haley Floyd ’25 combined her love of animals with a deep concern for the mental health of young women. Haley launched Pause for Paws, an initiative that brought therapy dogs to campus to offer comfort and connection. She received a 10<20 Youth Impact Award from “Memphis Parent” magazine for her work.
In these student-led R.E.A.L. discussions, our fourth graders sharpen their conversation skills while learning to support their ideas with evidence and think critically.
Through years of theatre, dance, music, and leadership in the arts, Chloe Simpson ’25 found confidence, community, and her voice. From the stage to the classroom, she embraced every opportunity to grow as a performer, student, and civic thinker.
Maggie’s interest in environmental science and forestry has grown through hands-on learning, inspiring mentors, and community involvement. After 15 years at Hutchison, she’s ready to turn her curiosity and love for learning into real-world impact.