Some time has passed since the presidential election, and I’ve had many conversations about Bryn Mawr’s experience and response. Now, I want to share my reflections and hopes for how we face the future together as a school community.

As you know, Bryn Mawr was founded by early feminists whose vision of a school guides us still: a place for fiercely intelligent young women who would become well educated, outspoken and engaged citizens. That there were many members of our community championing the first female nominee of a major party for president should come as no surprise, given our history and our essential founding principles. At the same time, there is significant support for other political positions and many voices that are at risk of being trampled if we duck behind our feminist founding and our passion for girls’ education. We declare in our mission statement that we want to educate girls who will go on “to live considered and consequential lives.” Our feminist principles must be matched by principles of inclusivity, community and compassion.

On campus, post-election emotions have run high. While I am proud of the girls’ genuine enthusiasm and interest in national politics, strong feelings have been expressed both via social media and on campus, some of which have made members of our community feel uncomfortable. We are steadfastly committed to making Bryn Mawr a place where all students feel safe to explore and express their views and where diverse viewpoints are valued. We will accept nothing less. We are a community; we are the Mawrtian Nation and we will move forward together.

The day after the election, I addressed the faculty, asking them to help interpret the results of the election and to support all of our students. I also spoke to the girls in the Upper School and said:

You are all Bryn Mawr girls – powerful, smart and assertive girls – and you all believe not only in a woman's right to the highest offices but also in the power of our democracy, the power of men’s and women’s votes. I urge you to respond to your classmates and your friends as I know you always do: with respect, compassion, thoughtfulness and kindness…Let's not be divided as a school. With respect and compassion, let's support each other and our leaders. Goodness will ultimately prevail.

One week after the election, our seniors led small-group student discussions to encourage productive and respectful dialogue. These student-led discussions continue within our Upper School, with the aim of healing our community and fostering an environment of mutual respect. Yes, some of this is difficult work, but we see the challenge and are moving through it. We will lean into the discomfort and will ultimately come out stronger.