Six Students Attend SDLC Conference

Six St. Albans students, accompanied by a group of faculty members led by Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Rev. Kristin Elliott, traveled to St. Louis, Mo., for the National Association of Independent School’s Student Diversity Leadership Conference.

The conference theme this year was Bending the Arc Toward Justice: Radical Optimism, Transformational Joy, Resilience, and Brilliance.

According to the Upper School DEI Coordinator Kyle Money, this flagship conference brought together 2,023 students from across the United States, and even abroad. The conference curriculum included large-scale activities, small-group workshops, and affinity groups for the students.

Describing the experience, Mr. Money noted: “Listening to the genius and joy of the student attendees helped me consider tangible ways we can empower our students and improve St. Albans for the entire community. Most of all, collaborating with other independent school educators pushed me to grow, and I am incredibly appreciative for this professional development opportunity. (A special shout out to the STA faculty who covered my class while I was away!)”

The experience appeared to be empowering for the Upper School students who participated. Ms. Bharti Vural, DEI coordinator for the Lower School, has been attending the conference for a decade, but chaperoned the Upper School students for the first time this year. 

Vural shared: “This year was particularly special because it was my first time chaperoning the Upper School boys. To feel their excitement, to hear their experiences, and to witness their engagement was palpable. Their astute feedback, genuine reflections, and thoughtful ideas only enriched my own experience, both on a personal and professional level.”

Next year’s conference will take place in Denver, Colo. — and St. Albans looks forward to participating again!