There are few moments in life quite like the closing weeks of one’s Senior year of high school. A milestone marked by bittersweet reflection and anticipation, it brings the quiet realization that the most familiar faces and places will soon become cherished memories. Before departing for their Senior Survival—a rite of passage at The Webb School—the 68 members of the Class of 2026 gathered for a Senior Luncheon in the William Bond Library on Friday, May 15.

Hosted by The Webb School Alumni Board, the luncheon served as a meaningful reminder that lessons learned at Webb extend far beyond the classroom and remain with us throughout our lives. As they prepare to begin their next chapter, these Seniors will carry forward the School’s enduring values, making the people who have guided them prouder than ever.

The luncheon kicked off with welcome remarks from the Office of Alumni and Development Director Jonathon Hawkins P ’21. Afterward, Webb's Director of W.I.L.D. and Outdoor Programs, Joe Griggs '05, shared one 1991 Senior Survival log entry aloud. In addition to offering a small prayer, Griggs reminded the class that what they choose to carry with them from Webb is in their hands, whether it be the values they've learned, the memories they've forged or the friends they've met throughout their journey.

Following congratulations and advice from Webb’s 14th Head of School, Dr. Polly Parker, the soon-to-be graduates had the privilege of hearing from Alumni Board Member Deb Roberts Horst ’75 of Kennesaw, Ga. While preparing for her speech, Horst—a former boarding student—revisited her final Webb yearbook to see what her classmates had to say back then.

“Not surprisingly, the words that appear most frequently are Honor, Character, Integrity, Gratitude, Pride [and] Discipline, words still in use at Webb today,” said Horst. “However, in many other ways, The Webb School I graduated from 51 years ago bears absolutely no resemblance to The Webb School of today. The School is different… because faculty, administrators, teachers, parents, grandparents, and, yes, alumni have worked tirelessly to make that happen.”

Horst challenged every member of the Class of 2026 to “Take a Hand in the Game" as alumni of The Webb School. “Whether through effort, financial support, or both, you will enrich your own life while helping secure the future of the School,” she said, adding, “Let this School, which I know has meant so much to you, continue to inspire and support the students who follow in your footsteps.”

During the luncheon, Senior Class Advisor Hannah Byrd Little P ’17 announced the three students—JT Simmons, Charlotte Toy and Lien Phan—who will serve as Class Agents upon their graduation from Webb on May 23, 2026.

As they prepare to receive their diplomas before their family, teachers, and friends, each will become not only a graduate but the newest steward of Webb’s enduring legacy.

“You stand at a meaningful threshold,” Dr. Parker explained to the class. “In a few short weeks, you will walk across a stage and step into a new chapter. My hope for each of you is that you carry forward a strong sense of who you are, a commitment to doing what is right, and a deep appreciation for the people who have supported you along the way. Finish well. Be present. Choose integrity.”