Reunion Weekend Brings Nearly 200 Holton Alumnae Home
During a weekend filled with conversation, learning, and celebration, generations of Panthers came together to honor shared experiences and create new memories.
Head of School Penny B. Evins welcomed alumnae: "Coming back through our Open Door is a cherished and hallmark tradition for Holton. Being in your company and experiencing the sights, sounds, and stories of the collective you is a reminder not only of the powerful relationships formed here, but that today's students will look forward to their lives ahead knowing that Holton will be a touchstone and a throughline."
Throughout the weekend, alumnae stepped back into the rhythm of campus life, participating in classroom sessions that sparked curiosity and creativity. From art history to ceramics, and a lively AI Tasting led by students in the AI Innovators Club, alumnae engaged in hands-on learning experiences that reflected the dynamic Holton curriculum.
Weekend festivities also included student-led campus tours, the Alumnae Association Cocktail Party, the Blue & White Cookout, cookies and conversation between the third graders and their Class of 1976 Pen Pals, affinity group receptions, and class parties.
Honoring Milestones and Looking Ahead
Evins offered special recognition to the Class of 1976 during the 50th Reunion Luncheon: "Each of you helped shape this school and this community, and Holton is better today because of the mark you left here. Over the years, you have given your time, your talents, and your generosity, and the Holton we know and love has been shaped in countless ways."
During the luncheon, Evins also shared a State of the School update, highlighting key priorities within Holton's strategic plan. She spoke about ongoing efforts in investments in academic innovation, student well-being, and community engagement, as well as the school's commitment to preparing students to lead with purpose in a changing world.
Celebrating Alumnae Impact
A highlight of Reunion Weekend is the presentation of the Distinguished Alumna Award and the Rosemary Wire Anderson Award, also known as "The Rosie Award."
The Distinguished Alumna Award, established in 1973 to recognize an alumna for exceptional career or volunteer accomplishments, was presented to Courteney Freedman Monroe ’86. Monroe currently serves as the President of National Geographic, where she oversees the brand's print, digital, social, and television platforms, as well as content for Disney+ and Hulu. She has led a major transformation of the 138-year-old brand, modernizing it for the digital age and cementing it as a destination for ambitious storytelling. [Click here for more]
"Courteney's words and career reflect so many of the qualities we strive to cultivate in every Holton graduate—curiosity, creativity, leadership, and a sense of purpose," said Evins. "She represents our goal for every graduate not only to be prepared for the future, but to shape it. We are so very proud to call Courteney a Holton alumna."
Speaking to alumnae, faculty, and the Upper School, Monroe credited Holton with shaping her leadership philosophy: "Holton helped me develop a strong sense of confidence and self-knowledge. I learned early on that my voice mattered and that I should use it thoughtfully and with conviction."
The Rosemary Wire Anderson Award, established in 1990, honors an alumna's extraordinary service to Holton-Arms. This year, the Alumnae Board proudly presented the award to Catherine Johnson Butz ’87. [Click here for more]
Presenting the award, Evins shared, "Cathy lives what we aspire to in our Portrait of a Graduate. She is a connector who builds meaningful relationships and fosters belonging. She engages the world with curiosity and purpose, and she approaches challenges as an opportunity to think deeply, act thoughtfully, and make a lasting impact. At every turn, she demonstrates a deep appreciation for the responsibility and opportunity to leave things better than she found them."
Giving Back, Together
Every year, the Reunion Class Giving Championships are a spirited expression of alumnae support. The Champagne Cup, awarded to the class with the highest participation in the Holton Fund, went to the Class of 1976, who achieved an impressive 46% participation rate.
The Presidents' Cup was awarded to the Class of 1961 with a generous contribution of more than $64,000.
In total, Reunion alumnae gave $144,404 in support of Holton—an inspiring reflection of their enduring commitment to the school and future generations of students.
Thank you to the nearly 200 alumnae who returned to campus to celebrate Reunion Weekend. Their stories, friendships, and continued engagement reflect the lifelong connections forged at Holton and the enduring strength of a community rooted in belonging and shared purpose.
