Head's Weekly Message — Jan. 15, 2021

Dear Mayfield Senior School Parents,

Today marks the birthday of two of my most beloved heroes—Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Cornelia Connelly. That these two amazing leaders were both born on January 15th —albeit 120 years apart—seems to me both poignant and appropriate, and I think they both have a lot to teach us right now. Both lived lives of deep and abiding love and derived their strength from their unshakeable faith. Both spoke truth to power while preaching compassion, empathy, and forgiveness. Both show us today how to face adversity with courage and resilience—never giving in to despair because we know that we are guided and protected by our God’s immeasurable and enduring love.

The Mayfield community celebrated Cornelia’s 212th birthday on Wednesday through a beautiful prayer service during advisory. Together we had time to reflect on how we all might use the example of Cornelia’s life to further our “Actions Not Words” motto as we work to build kindness and mutual respect in all we do. As a nation, we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 92nd birthday on Monday, praying in faith that our country will move forward towards justice, unity and healing inspired by his example of non-violence and love.

Today we also mark the end of the first semester of a school year like no other. I continue to be so proud of our community during these extremely challenging times, and I am inspired every day by what I see and experience. With the amazing support of our faculty and staff our students just keep on keeping on, continuing to grow and staying engaged. With the vaccine in the near future, we see the light at the end of the tunnel.

In the meantime, we are looking forward to being inspired by some of our incredible alums who will be presenting on Wednesday, Jan. 27 at our Virtual Career Day. This year we will be welcoming Mayfield grads from around the country to talk with our students about how they are spreading the spirit of Cornelia Connelly in all they do. I can’t wait!

With Love and Gratitude,

Kate Morin
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Established in 1931, Mayfield Senior School in Pasadena, CA is a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school for young women grades 9-12. Noted for its rigorous academic program, which includes 28 Advanced Placement and Honors courses, Mayfield’s curriculum is underscored by a philosophy of educating the “whole child,” which also encourages commitment to and excellence in the arts, athletics, community service and spiritual growth. The nurturing environment at Mayfield Senior School allows each student to flourish in an atmosphere of personal attention.