Few days on the school calendar are as special as Grandfriends Day. Filled with hugs, smiles, and Baron pride, the 37th annual celebration welcomed more than 750 grandparents and special guests to campus for one of the year’s most beloved traditions. Beyond classroom visits and student performances, Grandfriends Day celebrates the important role grandparents play in students’ lives and the Wilson Hall community.
The celebration began in the Nash Student Center with an invocation by Sarah Burns Brown ’34, followed by Easton Bass ’34 leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Students in grades 1–5 performed the upbeat “Better Together,” complete with colorful ribbon wand choreography, and closed the program with a rousing rendition of “Thanksful for the U.S.A.,” waving hundreds of American flags. On behalf of the school, Brayden Trueblood ’34 thanked veterans and families of those currently serving or who have served in the military. Preschool and kindergarten students charmed the audience with “You Are My Sunshine.” The performances were directed by Mrs. Julia Sims-Owens, music teacher, while Mrs. Frankie Eldridge provided piano music as guests entered the Nash Student Center. Mrs. Jen Alford Reimer ’00 managed the sound board.
The program also featured reflections on the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren. Cameron Kohl ’27, Fellowship of Christian Athletes President, shared her positive experiences at Wilson Hall and the important role her grandparents have played throughout her school years. Dr. Mark Crabbe, a parent of alumni and current grandparent, spoke about what the school has meant to his family and the essential role grandparents play in the Wilson Hall community. Mr. Brent Kaneft ’00, Head of School, thanked grandparents and special friends for their steadfast support, highlighted the importance of the Future Fund, and reaffirmed the school’s mission that every student will be known, loved, challenged, and safe.
After the program, students eagerly welcomed their guests into classrooms, sharing writing and art projects and introducing teachers. Guests also enjoyed guided campus tours, visiting co-curricular classes in art, STEM, library, music, and physical education, along with the Founders Chapel. Throughout campus, smiles and conversations reflected the joy of generations making memories together.
The Baron Ambassadors, chaired by Bee Smith ’27 and advised by Mrs. Martha Jo Smith Johnson ’99, helped welcome guests throughout campus. These student leaders provided directions, distributed welcome gifts, kept the popcorn popping, and offered golf cart transportation for those needing assistance. The PTO Hospitality Committee, led by Mrs. Melissa Shaw, prepared beautiful hospitality tables with floral arrangements, coffee, and a generous assortment of pastries.
Sponsored by the Development Office, the celebration was coordinated by Mrs. Martha Jo Smith Johnson ’99, Director of Development, and Mrs. Caroline Zitzke, Development Associate. Grandfriends Day is a reminder that the Wilson Hall experience extends far beyond the classroom. Grandparents are among the school’s most devoted supporters, enthusiastic cheerleaders, and treasured members of the Baron family. Their love, encouragement, generosity, and involvement help make Wilson Hall the special place it is. The day brought generations together, giving the Baron community more than 750 very special reasons to celebrate.