By encouraging students to be inquisitive, innovative, and resilient, they learn to lead with not just their minds but also their hearts. Inspired by the groundbreaking work of others before them, they understand that impacting the world can be as massive as being the first woman in space or as simple as spreading joy and kindness to a neighbor in need.
February 11 marked the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. First introduced by resolution of the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, the day recognizes the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. At Wellington, middle school students have spent the last trimester studying and researching different scientists in their Dive class “Women in Science” with faculty members Me-Chelle Burkhalter P ’22 and Chris Fischer P ’24 ’26. Their work was prompted by the fact that less than 20% of the biographies on Wikipedia are women. Joining the nation in improving representation and quality of articles about female scientists on the site, Wellington students were committed to researching current female scientists because most featured were no longer living.
According to Burkhalter, the diverse group of scientists the class found most inspiring included Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, Joy Buolamwini, Dr. Katherin U. Jansen, Dr. Lean Wen and Dr. Tu Youyou. Last week, in keeping with the UN’s 2021 theme of highlighting women scientists at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19, Burkhalter shared with classes inspiring examples of trailblazers, past and present, in the field of science. From Rosalind Franklin and Katherine Johnson to Mae Jemison and Jennifer Doudna, women around the world have changed it in countless, extraordinary ways.
“It doesn’t matter who you are,” Burkhalter told students, “you can pave the way for others.” See more photos on Vidigami.
February has also been a month about giving back and spreading the love for community. Under the guidance of faculty members Jayne Young, Gina Spicer P ’24 ’26, and Jamie Bennati, Wellington students created an astounding 420 pieces of art, crafts, and Valentine's Day cards for Upper Arlington residents living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The thought and care students put into the Upper Arlington Civic Association “Spread the Love Art Drive” lifted the spirits of local seniors that have been negatively impacted by COVID-19.
To support the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, students organized a Super Bowl Food Drive & Kick-Off on the Friday before the Big Game. The Wellington community donated more than 350 canned goods for a chance to participate in a friendly kick-off competition. See more photos on Vidigami.
Upper school welcomed in the Year of the Ox with students unable to spend Lunar New Year with their own families. They celebrated with dumplings and traditional red envelopes filled with encouraging notes from faculty and friends. It was a wonderful reminder of what makes Wellington so special. During the coldest month of the year, coming together to share a mutual appreciation for each other, is always cause for a heart-filled celebration. See more photos on Vidigami.