The day-long conference, modeled after the energy and spirit of the Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC), brought together students from independent schools across the region, including Emma Willard School, The King School, Pierrepont School, Ethical Culture Fieldston, The Calhoun School, Greenwich Academy, Greenwich Country Day School, French American School of New York, School of the Holy Child, Rippowam Cisqua School, Sacred Heart Greenwich, Rye Country Day School, and The Masters School.

Throughout the day, students participated in interactive workshops and affinity group sessions exploring how diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice shape school communities. The Summit offered a space for honest dialogue, empathy, and connection, reminding students that meaningful change begins with listening, learning, and leading with purpose.

Emma students reflected on shared challenges and opportunities across schools, including the importance of student voice, faculty diversity, and continued DEI learning for both adults and students. They also left inspired by the idea of hosting a student-led DEI conference at Emma, one that invites local schools to collaborate through student-to-student dialogue and interactive workshops. 

“I’m continually inspired by the students who use their voices to make our community stronger and more inclusive,” said Head of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Prince Botchway, “Gatherings like this remind us that the work of equity and belonging is never finished; it grows with each conversation and each act of courage. I’m deeply grateful for our community, for our affinity group mentors, advisors, and for the students who lead with compassion and purpose every day.”

The students who attended are Eni A. ’27, Tani A. ’27, Alankrita B. ’28, Kamryn D. ’26, Rachel D. ’26, Christine I-K. ’27, Masouda K-A. ’27, Paloma L. ’27, Iris L. ’26, Riwo O. ’26, Marigold P. ’27, Ava S. ’28, and Sariah T. ’28. They returned to campus energized, grateful to have represented Emma Willard School, and eager to bring back new ideas that will help strengthen inclusion and belonging across the community.

This blog was written by Head of Institutional Equity and Inclusion Prince Botchway.