Following the Fall Board of Trustees meeting, members of The Webb School community gathered at the newly renovated outdoor classroom adjacent to the Big Room to dedicate the Josephine Jenkins Hardin Memorial Outdoor Classroom. The dedication honors the memory of Josephine Hardin ’15, who, along with her mother, Alyson, tragically lost her life in the Central Texas floods over the July 4th holiday earlier this year.

The Josephine Jenkins Hardin Memorial Outdoor Classroom is designed to be a space where students can gather, reflect and grow—a fitting tribute to a young woman who exemplified these qualities during her own time at Webb. Josephine, a graduate of the Class of 2015, is widely remembered for her joyful spirit, enthusiasm and love of learning. The dedication ensures that her energy and light continue to inspire current and future Webb students.

The dedication program included welcome remarks from Director of Family Giving Beth Cope P ’32, and the Webb School Parents’ Association (WSPA) President Ashlea Shepherd P ’22, ’30. Melora Turner ’80, Board member and family friend, also offered personal reflections on behalf of the Board of Trustees and the School. Several of Josephine’s classmates, family friends, and Trustees likewise attended to celebrate her life and legacy.

The renovation of this and another outdoor classroom earlier this year was made possible by support from the WSPA and proceeds from the 2025 Belles and Buckles Gala, which funded enhancements across both outdoor learning spaces. One of the classrooms was generously named in Josephine’s honor. A plaque now marks the space, ensuring that Josephine’s memory will remain a part of the campus for generations to come.