Alumna Amanda Good ’03 Leads Upper School Discussion on Mental Health

At this week's Upper School assembly, Creating Balance for Health and Wellness​​​​​, students gathered in the Lewis Theater to hear from alumna Amanda Good ’03, now director of The Sibley Group. Returning to Holton felt "surreal," she shared, as she reflected on how much—and how little—time had passed since she sat in the same seats. Good spoke candidly about stress, capacity, and the importance of noticing what truly matters. Holding up a family photo taken before she faced a serious illness, she reminded students that images don't always reflect reality and encouraged them to ask, "How do I, as an individual, want to balance whatever comes at me?" She urged students to "hold on to what lights you up," practice pausing, and re-evaluate what they carry in their metaphorical "backpacks" by identifying what is essential and what can be set down.

Good was joined by Phyllis L. Fagel, LCPC, counselor, author, and journalist, along with student panelists Journey S. ’27, Chelsie C. ’26, and Betty Rose B. ’26 for a thoughtful Q&A led by the Mental Health Club. Together, they discussed redefining success, recognizing when coping strategies need to change, and finding practical ways to create balance—whether by zooming out to regain perspective or zooming in on one small thing that brings joy. The assembly also highlighted the many resources available to Holton students. As the community looks ahead to Mental Health Day on January 23, the program underscored that wellness is a continuous practice and no one has to navigate it alone.