In the Upper School’s Gator Congregation Storytellers, students and faculty take the stage to share personal stories that matter—honest, vulnerable, and true. This program is rooted in the belief that storytelling builds empathy, courage, and connection. Dean of Students Rachael Jennings describes the initiative as an intentional space to “rehumanize” relationships in a busy, often fragmented world. “It takes courage to know people and to let yourself be known,” she reflects. Through five-minute stories—drafted socially, practiced communally, and delivered without notes—students and teachers reveal moments of transformation, curiosity, and growth.

While the program is still a “young sapling,” as Jennings describes it, its impact is clear. A senior recounts his first encounter with a host family during a school trip to Costa Rica. A teacher shares a joyful yet nerve-rattling experience founding a theater company. Others tell of encounters with nature—face-to-face with a barracuda—or life-changing injuries, highlighting hope and resilience. The program is more than a series of speeches; it’s an exercise in trust and community-building. The social drafting process, where stories are shared and refined in small groups, has become as meaningful as the final storytelling moments, fostering quieter, authentic connections.

In Middle School, 5 Minutes of Wisdom achieves a similar magic during weekly assemblies. Assistant Head of Middle School Dr. Bill Lyon explains that the program provides a platform for teachers, students, and community members to share wisdom not often imparted in the classroom. From personal tales of failure and growth to unexpected moments (like learning the Eagles fight song in Mandarin), these brief, heartfelt exchanges break down barriers and humanize adults and peers alike. As Dr. Lyon puts it, “Stories build relationships and provide grounding—a touchstone for students as they start their week.” Through storytelling, both programs remind us of our shared humanity, fostering a sense of belonging that is at the heart of Shipley’s community.