Background:

I graduated from HHCA in 2009 after attending HHCA from preschool all the way to senior year. I currently live in Washington, DC with my husband, Judd, where we recently relocated after spending three years in Geneva, Switzerland. I have a background in nonprofit management and fundraising, recently graduated with a Masters in Behavioral Science from the London School of Economics, and work as a leadership consultant with SpencerStuart, helping leaders improve team culture and organizational effectiveness.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to current HHCA students?

Two things: (1) Don't take your teachers (and other staff and faculty) for granted! It's a special gift to have adults who care about your academic, personal, and spiritual growth. (2) Don't be afraid to ask questions and dig into doubts. In a time when our world is quite polarized, research shows that curiosity is key. So avoid black-and-white answers, look for nuance and alternate viewpoints, and always stay curious.

How has HHCA shaped you spiritually?

HHCA provided a strong foundation of faith — both in the classroom and through the community of teachers, mentors, and peers it provided. Since graduating, I've been able to build on this foundation and deepen my faith by joining a campus ministry in college and diving into church communities both in Washington, DC and in Geneva.

HHCA provided a strong foundation of faith — both in the classroom and through the community of teachers, mentors, and peers it provided.

- Mary Grace Short Kennedy (Class of 2009)