On February 18, the historic Belle Meade Country Club served as the backdrop for a significant milestone in The Webb School’s 156-year history. Hosted by Clare and Vance Berry ’72, Brigitte and David Wiley ’73, and Jessica ’82 and Lee Woosley ’78, the evening brought together nearly 90 alumni, trustees, and friends of the School to celebrate Webb’s evolution and its first female head, Dr. Polly Parker.

The gathering represented a powerful cross-section of the Webb family, with attendees spanning classes from the 1960s through the 2000s. The presence of former Head of School Jon Frere and former Dean of Studies Stan Rupley underscored a theme of continuity, bridging the School’s storied past with its vibrant present.

The "Snack Rule"

In her remarks, Dr. Parker reflected on her first eight months as head of school at Webb, sharing insights into the daily life that makes our School unique. 

She charmed the audience with a story about her "open-door" snack policy, which has become a cornerstone of building relationships with the student body. She explained that students are encouraged to stop by her office for snacks, but with one ironclad rule: if she isn’t in her office, they must leave a note. These handwritten messages have provided Dr. Parker with a candid, joyful window into the personalities of the students she leads. “The students are fun, and they are funny,” she said.

Innovation Rooted in Tradition

While celebrating the culture of Webb's campus in beautiful Bell Buckle, Dr. Parker also highlighted the School's new and improved "Signature Programs," which continue to garner attention:

• Computer Science & Interactive Media: A cutting-edge curriculum integrating engineering, design, and production.
• Health & Human Performance: Integrating fitness science into daily learning and athletic preparation.
• Leadership: Programs designed to cultivate the next generation of global citizens.
• Tennessee Flight Training: A rare and rigorous preparatory aviation program.
• W.I.L.D. (Wilderness Instruction and Leadership Development): Webb’s premier outdoor character-building program.

Known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on character education, Webb—with the help of college coaches from Blue Ivy—continues to graduate leaders who embody the School’s enduring values of honor and integrity. “It is inspiring to see the legacy of Webb demonstrated in the work of its alumni and friends. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this community,” said Dr. Parker.