When sharing details about his time at The Webb School so far, Hudson Webb ’27 doesn’t begin by talking about his own accomplishments; he starts with gratitude. He points back to the people, like English teacher Buck Smith, who have shaped him through classroom expectations that encourage students to think deeply.
Hudson is quick to make connections between the success he’s found and the skills he’s developed throughout his tenure at Webb. He describes his mantra straightforwardly: show up, do the work, and keep going even when it isn’t easy. This tireless work ethic, a cornerstone of The Webb School's mission since 1870, has become one of Hudson’s defining qualities.
He’s the kind of student who leans into his education, stepping forward wholeheartedly with a willingness to learn and discover the unknown. At the start of the 2025–26 academic year, Hudson found himself unable to participate in football, a program he had hoped to once again join. Though initially unsure what he’d do next, that uncertainty didn’t last long. Soon, he had a new plan in place.
He joined the stage crew during Webb’s Fall 2025 theatre production, Pride and Prejudice, as well as the Ethics Bowl and Youth & Government Clubs at his school. What began as a pivot quickly turned into an opportunity. In each of these spaces, Hudson thrived, sharpening his reasoning skills and continuing to stretch his intellectual curiosity in new and exciting ways. Although he humbly admits he felt like a “rookie” joining several new activities this school year, it’s clear that Hudson is wired for growth. He leaned in with an open mind, ready to learn, and encouraged others around him to do the same.
“I’m learning a lot. There’s no downside. When you’re at Webb, this is your time,” said Hudson, noting that there’s no use in waiting and wishing you had done things differently. “This is your number one time to try things out. Webb is built to support you.”
Through his participation in the Ethics Bowl, Hudson was also able to put into practice an activity he genuinely enjoys and wants to pursue further: public speaking.
Just this week, Hudson took his skills to the main stage in a TEDxMurfreesboro presentation before hundreds of people in his hometown. As the youngest speaker at the TEDx, he spoke about his experience growing up in Murfreesboro, Tenn., and why he thinks it’s the ideal place to be. In recent years, Murfreesboro has consistently been ranked one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. Born and raised in Murfreesboro, Hudson has witnessed its growth firsthand. He speaks fondly of the “unique Chinese place” to grab a yummy bite, the “growing opportunities” that bring more jobs, and the diversity that Murfreesboro embraces to this day, as its small-town feel remains consistently true.
When asked how he felt about speaking before such a large group, Hudson reflected on his experience in Webb’s Emerging Voices program since the sixth grade. “I like speaking in front of people. I’ve spoken in front of people before, and I feel like that really helps.” As he advanced through the grade levels and his Emerging Voices curriculum steadily progressed, Hudson met the growing challenges with confidence and ingenuity: “It’s more of a step up…you’re sharing your ideas more than just reciting.”
Hudson, who one day hopes to pursue a career in the legal profession, attended a Law and Public Policy academy at Georgetown University in the summer of 2025. “I learned a lot, and it was a great experience,” he said.
While studying in Washington, D.C., Hudson also observed how helpful it was to have this college-level foundation. This, along with his experiences at Webb, has left him feeling prepared to navigate campus life, manage his time wisely, and confidently handle rigorous coursework while living independently. This summer, he will continue exploring his interests through an Advocacy Law class at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Hudson is an active member of the Honor Council, Best Buddies Club—where he enjoys helping children with special needs—and Diversity Council, where, as he says, “there’s always something going on,” from heritage months to special presentations.
Whether in the classroom, on stage, or branching out in his local community, Hudson leads by example every day. He accepts challenges, trusts the process of taking risks, and makes the most of each opportunity that comes his way. At Webb, Hudson isn’t just preparing for college; he’s discovering who he is, creating a lasting legacy, and confidently stepping into the future.