Upper School Intersession 2025

Learn from activists across disciplines, from political leadership to social justice, as they reflect on their decades of experience and their perspectives on the future of social equity. If you’re interested in learning about grassroots organizing, community activism, or a career in public service, this panel is for you! Our speakers will include the executive director of Women’s Building SF, founder of FundHer Valerie McGinty, a local director of Public Allies (former collaborators with Michelle Obama), and other E&I leaders!

Through this session, you will:
- Hear why the Peace Corps is often described as “the toughest job you’ll ever love,” along with the challenges and unique experiences associated with this role.
- Discover the power of community empowerment and entrepreneurship through the firsthand experiences of a former Peace Corps Volunteer.
- Learn about microfinance programs and initiatives that support small businesses in Panama.
- Explore the significance of Panamanian indigenous crafts in preserving cultural heritage. Beautiful crafts created by artisans from the Ngobe-Bugle, Kuna Yala, and Embera communities will be showcased, and Anne will discuss how these crafts reflect the country’s rich culture and creativity.
- Understand the impact of learning a foreign language on building connections, fostering trust and becoming a unique candidate for work. 

This session is for anyone interested in global citizenship, cultural exchange, unique crafts and community-based entrepreneurship. Let’s explore how we can empower communities and celebrate diversity together!

This session will modestly attempt to explain some of the forces that shape today's world through the study of maps. We will likely focus on 20th century and recent conflicts and look into their geography for answers to why these conflicts took place.