Woven together with kindness, courage, and strength

Class of 2029 celebrates Honor Day and the plaid that unites them

By Gabby Welhoelter ‘22

For Harpeth Hall’s 8th grade students, crossing the lawn from the middle school to the upper school means stepping into a new chapter with confidence, joy, and the unmistakable strength of their sisterhood, woven tightly together — just like their plaid. 

"In our plaid, there are many different colors and shapes, and each and every square has a unique story to tell, just like every girl up here on stage," 8th grade student speaker Bryn Johnson said as she addressed the Class of 2029 at the Harpeth Hall’s middle school Honor Day celebration. "We all take our individual backgrounds, personalities, and cultures to make the plaid we wear. In the same way that the various colors and lines of the plaid come together to make a beautiful pattern, we, the individual students, assemble to create the whole, beautiful Class of 2029." 

That metaphor extended beyond the fabric of their skirts; it was reflected in their friendships, leadership, daily interactions, and the legacy they leave behind. The Class of 2029 has spent their middle school years stitching together memories and milestones: learning to lead with kindness, speak with courage, and celebrate each other's strengths. 

Middle School Director Elizabeth Ecker '00 reflected on the honor of guiding the first graduating class under her leadership. "Your enthusiasm knows no bounds," she said. "I say to you, on behalf of all of your teachers, for all that you have accomplished, for all the ways that you have grown, and for all the joy you've brought to our school, we are so proud of you. We know that you have all the skills and passion that you need to bring the same joy to the upper school that you have brought to us during your time in middle school." 

Not only did the Class of 2029 walk through the middle school with joy, but they also did so with honor and integrity. Seventh grade student speaker Jackie Barajas Clark addressed the older class, saying, "You've shown us that true honor isn't measured by perfection. It is measured by how you show up for one another. Thank you for showing the rest of us what it means to be gracious, encouraging, and honorable — not just in big moments but in everyday ones." 

The class has carried a unique energy and joy throughout their time in middle school.

Now, as they cross the lawn, they take that vibrant spirit — and their Harpeth Hall plaid — with them into the next phase of their journey.

2025 Middle School Awards

Elizabeth Hausman Award   
Briar King

Director's Award
Jordan Bentley

Head's Award
Charlye Walker

Polly Fessey Award
Abigail Page

Lindy Sayers Award
Ani Kate Bashian

Carol Clark Elam History Award
Helen Jane Thompson

Daugh W. Smith English Award
Audrey Fulwider

8th Grade Speaker Award
Bryn Johnson

Louise Wills Algebra I Award
Palmer Reynolds

8th Grade Class Spirit Award
Alexa Sarb

7th Grade Class Spirit Award
Hayes Young

6th Grade Class Spirit Award
Helen Burkhalter

5th Grade Class Spirit Award
Beau Ewald

Patty Chadwell Award
Emma Randolph

MS Athlete of the Year
Violet Ortner