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Ripples of Change: Diversity Conference at St. Luke’s School
“Hundreds of students and teachers came from around Connecticut; through speakers and workshops, we spent the day building community, increasing dialogue across differences, becoming more aware of our blind spots, and strengthening our shared commitment to equity work in independent schools.” -Liz Perry
St. Luke’s School hosted the annual Connecticut Association of Independent Schools Student Diversity Leadership Conference. The event, attended by 600 people, was headed by Upper School Music Chair Dale Griffa who is Chair of the CAIS Commission on Diversity In Independent Schools. Griffa was supported by a team of St. Luke’s students, faculty, staff, and facility workers.
This year’s theme Ripples of Change: Building Awareness and Taking Action came to life through student speakers and performers from around the state. Many shared reflections on topics such as colorism and read original poetry. St. Luke’s student leaders were fully engaged. Volunteers from the choir sang a beautiful medley of spirituals while Raven Sead ‘20 danced, Jordan Robinson ‘20 and Madison Sead ‘19 served as emcees, DJ Dylan Johnson ‘20 provided music for the transitions, Cierra Kitt ‘19 sang a solo, and many students served as small group facilitators. Adults who attended the conference appreciated the thoughtful student presentations. While the students worked in small groups, adults listened to Dr. Alberto Fuentes, speak about intersectionality.
Kenny Soares ‘21 summed up the feeling of spending the day connecting and listening: “I enjoyed talking with students from schools around Connecticut. It was interesting to hear their different perspectives and learn about their school cultures. It was a really eye-opening day.”
St. Luke’s School is a secular (non-religious), private school in New Canaan, CT for grades 5 through 12 serving over 35 towns in Connecticut and New York. Our exceptional academics and diverse co-educational community foster students’ intellectual and ethical development and prepare them for top colleges. St. Luke’s Center for Leadership builds the commitment to serve and the confidence to lead.
