The first Friday of the school year, our seniors gathered in the Harris Performance Gym for the annual Senior Convocation, a long-standing tradition that officially marks the beginning of their senior year. After warm welcomes from Senior Class President Nile Collins-Friedland ’25 and Head of Upper School Nidhi McVicar, our Director of Alumni Relations Drew Witman ’06 welcomed Sallie James Weart ’09, who returned to share her wisdom and experiences with the Class of 2025.
Sixteen years ago, Sallie sat where today’s seniors sit, filled with a mix of emotions as she faced her final year at Country Day. Drawing from her own journey, she spoke passionately about the importance of playing with heart, a motto that guided her to numerous successes, including a thrilling field hockey state championship win in 2007. She encouraged the seniors to find their own passions and to approach their final year with the same dedication and spirit.
As a leader in public policy at the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Sallie shared how taking a leap of faith in her career, driven by her personal connection to the disease, has allowed her to pursue her passion with purpose. She urged the seniors to embrace curiosity and openness, qualities cultivated during their time at Country Day, as they navigate the unknown paths ahead.
In addition to personal drive, she emphasized the importance of the people around them—friends, family, and the Country Day community—who will support and encourage them as they tackle the challenges and opportunities of senior year and beyond.
As the seniors prepare to embark on their final chapter at Country Day, Salllie left them with a simple yet profound piece of advice: play with heart. Whether in academics, sports, or personal pursuits, she reminded them that this guiding principle will not only shape their senior year but will also carry them forward into the new beginnings that await.
The Senior Convocation concluded with a sense of anticipation and pride as the seniors reflected on the journey ahead, supported by a community that believes in them and inspired by the words of an alumna who has walked the path before them.
The first Senior Convocation was held on September 20, 1991, to mark both the School’s 50th Anniversary and to recognize the Class of 1992. The tradition has continued as a way to officially mark the beginning of the senior journey at Charlotte Country Day School.