Dr. Coleman expressed her genuine excitement and sincere appreciation when she received the invitation. “When I received the call about serving as Hockaday’s Commencement speaker, I was not only very honored but very humbled to have been chosen to speak to the distinguished Class of 2017, and I am thrilled that I will have an opportunity to share this momentous occasion with them. I have been fortunate to have had an opportunity to meet with many of the seniors to understand their perspectives about Hockaday, the impact this incredible School has made on their lives, and their confident outlook as they begin their unique paths. The esteemed young women in the Class of 2017 are both individually exceptional and unified in spirit, and it is a privilege to have this opportunity as I move into my new role.”

 

Senior Class President Malini Naidu was delighted by the selection of Dr. Coleman as the Commencement speaker. “As a class, we have a unique bond. For years, we have celebrated each other for our achievements and supported each other through our failures. I admire each of my classmates for who they are, their interests, and I truly believe that we are exceptionally prepared for our lives after we leave Hockaday. For years, I have looked forward to Commencement and eagerly anticipated this occasion having watched the girls who have come before me. Now Dr. Coleman, a lifelong educator, will share her experiences and, as a class, we look forward to learning from her guidance and wisdom.

 

Eugene McDermott Headmistress Liza Lee shared the same enthusiasm when Dr. Coleman was named as this year’s Commencement speaker. “We are incredibly fortunate that Dr. Coleman was free to accept our invitation. She is a superb speaker who models strength, grace, intelligence, and warmth. The Class of 2017 will always recall their memorable graduation speaker and will have a bond with her that will endure.”

 

Before being named Hockaday’s thirteenth head of school, Dr. Coleman led the strategic direction at the University of Chicago in the Department of Campus and Student Life to support students, faculty, and staff. As an officer of the university she was a trusted leader who oversaw several campus departments, which included 350 staff members and a budget of $80 million. Prior to the University of Chicago, Dr. Coleman served as Associate Dean of Students at the University of California, Berkeley. In this role she was responsible for matters related to student affairs and student services; developing university policies and protocols to address student discipline and grievances; and collaborating with other departments to meet students’ needs. Early in her career Dr. Coleman held student affairs positions at the George Washington University, the University of Vermont, and Hobart and William Smith Colleges.

 

Since 1915 when Hockaday's first students graduated, Hockaday’s Commencement has been a time-honored tradition at the School. This year's graduates have been recognized with distinction for their achievements, and the Class of 2017 collectively has 15 National Merit Scholarship finalists and 25 National Merit Scholarship commendees. For the remainder of the school year, the Class of 2017 will celebrate their time together and anticipate their futures having been already accepted to more than 100 colleges and universities around the world.