Having lived and dwelled as a four-year boarding student many years ago, I would consider myself an alum who has fond memories of their Darlington experience. However, it wasn’t until recently that I realized just how much this place means to me, how it has shaped me as a person, and how much I value its connection and people.
I recently had the pleasure of returning to my alma mater for my 10-year class reunion, as well as speak to current Darlington students about careers in marketing for Career Day. However, the most transformative experience and something that rekindled my connection and love for this place was the opportunity to be a part of Leadership Darlington.
Leadership Darlington afforded me the ability to not only reacquaint myself with the Darlington I once knew, but now the chance to dive deeper into the Community from a new vantage point. Over the course of two days, we were fully immersed into the school’s inner workings, challenges, opportunities, and what keeps its leaders up at night. We learned of its advances in academics, technology, fine arts and athletics. I was blown away by the transparency and honesty provided by the faculty and students, and was truly inspired by Darlington’s continued commitment to excellence.
However, for me, the most valuable part of Leadership Darlington was the feeling that I was a part of something much bigger than myself. This particularly resonated with me during the retreat keynote speech delivered by the honorable Jere Drummond (’57, and honorary Leadership Darlington chair). Mr. Drummond encouraged us to look at where we started, where we are now and where we are going to be, and then asked us the question: “Have you gotten the most out of yourself daily?”
His words reminded me of what I took away from my time at Darlington as a student, and what still plays out in my life as an alumna. Darlington taught me to challenge everything, to never be satisfied with the status quo, to crave learning, to be curious, to push boundaries, and to never stop seeking. Darlington taught me to never congeal, and I am thankful for my Leadership Darlington experience for helping me to remember this.
Sharing this time with alumni that spanned different generations, professions and backgrounds—each with their own unique Darlington experience, but all coming together for the greater good of the school—was truly something special. We each got something unique out of Leadership Darlington, but we walked away closer and more connected than ever to each other and to Darlington. We walked away realizing we were a part of something bigger than ourselves. Most importantly, we walked away with a deeper desire to give back to a school that continues to give to us.
Kristen Rachels ('05, LD'16) is based in Atlanta and currently serves as vice president of marketing and communications for StarMobile, Inc.
Click here for more information about the Leadership Darlington program.
