What does it really feel like to be an Upper School student at Ashley Hall?
In our newest video, you’ll hear directly from the students themselves as they share what drew them here, what challenges and inspires them, and what makes this community feel like home. Their reflections offer an honest look at daily life in the Upper School—inside the classroom and beyond it.
From meaningful relationships with teachers to opportunities that encourage confidence, curiosity, and leadership, these voices reflect the heart of the Ashley Hall experience. We invite you to watch, listen, and learn more about what makes our Upper School a place where students are known, supported, and empowered to grow.
▶ Watch the video to hear their stories.
Learning came alive this week for Ashley Hall’s grade 11 and 12 botany students during a field trip to Sea Island Savory Herbs, a woman-owned and operated plant nursery on Johns Island specializing in herbs, succulents, perennials, and seasonal vegetables. What they encountered there—rigorous science, hands-on discovery, and inspiring female leadership—added new dimension to the concepts they’ve been studying in class.
At the nursery, owner Ella Cowen offered students a look into the history and daily operations of her working farm, as well as the science and tradition behind the many medicinal plants she cultivates. Students learned how common herbs are used in teas, salves, and toners—discovering firsthand how plants contribute to human health and well-being. From comfrey to mint, the group explored the rich connections between botany and everyday life.
The visit also provided a sensory adventure. One student sampled some of the more unusual plants, including the “eyeball plant.” After chewing one of its flower heads, she immediately understood why it has been used to relieve toothaches—the bioactive compound spilanthol temporarily numbs the mouth. The plant also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties, giving students a perfect example of the complexity of medicinal flora.
She also tried “miracle fruit,” known for its ability to make sour foods taste sweet by briefly altering taste receptors. Holding the vibrant red berry in one of the field trip photos, she later tested the effect by eating an extremely sour citrus fruit. “It worked!” she said. The protein responsible—miraculin—is currently being studied for its potential to influence food preferences.
Throughout the tour, students applied their classroom learning about plant families, morphology, and adaptations to identify species and make connections to recent lessons—including how botanicals can even support forensic investigations. Their experience culminated in hands-on horticulture as they propagated herb cuttings to bring back to campus.
Reflecting on the impact of the day, Upper School Biology and Botany teacher Allison Bowden shared, “As we planted our cuttings, one senior looked over at me and said, ‘I just might major in botany!’ This simple statement was reaffirming to hear, for this course introduces students to the important role plants play in our lives. This week, as we wrapped up our deep dive into plant adaptations, students applied their knowledge of plant morphology and species identification to explore how flowers can be used in forensic investigations. Whether a student studies the medicinal benefits of plants, botanical biochemistry, or simply chooses gardening as a life-long hobby, I have achieved my goal to instill in my students an appreciation and understanding of the botanical world.”
Students echoed that enthusiasm. Liza Ziel ’27 reflected on a moment that stood out at the end of the visit, sharing her memory of Ms. Cowen’s words: “Women can do anything, no matter what it is—if you love it, you can do it.”
Zahirah Muhammad ’27 also shared the following reflections: “The botany field trip was amazing and such a unique experience! This was my first time going to a savory herb garden, and it was really cool to look at the different characteristics of plants, such as the variety of succulents, the coffee plant, mint, and rosemary. I also enjoyed the process of learning how to propagate cuttings and being able to take some home.”
This field trip offered students a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of the plant world—and a meaningful connection to a local female entrepreneur whose work reflects both expertise and passion. For many, it opened new interests and possibilities, making the experience one that will continue to grow long after they returned to campus.
As the fall athletics season came to a close, our student-athletes demonstrated exceptional commitment, resilience, and talent. This season was marked by outstanding performances, meaningful milestones, and a strong sense of community across Ashley Hall Athletics. Here’s a look back at the achievements that defined our fall season.
Tennis Secures Consecutive State Championships
Our varsity Tennis team completed an undefeated season and claimed their second straight State Championship, closing out the year with a decisive victory over Trinity Collegiate. Their dedication and consistency set a remarkable standard for excellence. Special congratulations to Lily Sloan ’26 on being named SCISA Player of the Year!
Equestrian Opens the Season with Strong Results
The Equestrian team began the season with impressive momentum, earning second place in their first show and first place in the following competition. Their early success signals a promising season ahead. PQV!
Cross Country Demonstrates Competitive Strength
Cross Country earned a second-place finish at the region meet, highlighted by top-seven performances from Molly Mettler ’27 and Natalie Bennett ’27. Reflecting on the team’s progress, Molly shared: “It was such good vibes and I really felt all the team love… We’ve made a really big jump this season in intensity, and we’re all so supported by each other and by the Ashley Hall community.” The team now turns its focus to the State Meet in Columbia.
Swimming Earns State Runner-Up Finish
The Swim team delivered an outstanding performance at the state championship meet, finishing as State Runner-Up. Coach Cassidy Rindge reflected on the team’s accomplishments:
“We had four podium finishes and a new school record. The girls took a lot of ownership over their season… They came together as a team which was really cool. It’s such a positive trajectory.”
Celebrating Excellence: Charlotte Strickland ’26 Signs with Tulane University
A standout moment of the fall season was the celebration of senior Charlotte Strickland ’26, a leader on our Varsity Volleyball team, as she officially signed her National Letter of Intent to play Division I Volleyball at Tulane University. A special ceremony was held in the gym, where teammates, coaches, family, and friends gathered to recognize her achievement and witness this meaningful milestone. Charlotte’s commitment, both on and off the court, has been an inspiration to our community. We congratulate her on this well-deserved accomplishment and wish her continued success—all our best and PQV!
Thank you for following this month’s Panther Recap. Stay connected with @AshleyHallPanthers for ongoing highlights, announcements, and stories from across our athletic community.
We are proud to share Ashley Hall’s 2024–2025 Impact Report, a celebration of the generosity, vision, and commitment of our community. Inside, you’ll find stories of community involvement, growth, and the many ways your support fuels the Ashley Hall experience.
Click here to explore the full report and see how your investment makes a lasting difference.
The Upper School Writing Center is a hub of creativity, collaboration, and leadership at Ashley Hall. In less than two years, what began as a small initiative with just two teachers and seven students has transformed into a dynamic, student-led operation with all-day availability and a team of 17 peer consultants. The Writing Center now stands as a model for innovative academic support, embodying the School’s goal of cultivating confident, capable leaders.
“This team of students is a powerhouse of creativity, discipline, and curiosity, and they embrace risk-taking and challenges of all sorts. They have been model leaders in the Ashley Hall Writing Center since its inception last year; now, they can share their findings and strategies nationally.”
– Chris Hughes, Upper School Librarian
The Writing Center’s remarkable growth has been driven by student leadership from the very beginning. While three faculty members provide valuable support, the students run the show, spearheading initiatives, building community partnerships, and ensuring the Center remains a dynamic, student-centered space. The Center’s leadership team includes:
Charlotte Torrez ’25, Director of Logistics
Miya Brown ’25, Director of Teaching Assistants
Sadie Cowan ’25 and Clara Kirchner ’26, Directors of Development
Grace Taylor ’26 and Gemma Williams ’26, Directors of Marketing
Callie Richards ’25, Director of Communications
Director of Logistics, Torrez, led the facilitation of projects like a Calendly-based scheduling system, an informative website, and a dedicated email contact point, which became operational realities this year. These tools made the Writing Center more accessible and broadened its reach across campus.
In her role, Brown was excited to help shape the Center’s classroom integration efforts. She shared, “I’ve always gravitated toward the humanities, so when I was asked to join the Writing Center—to surround myself with other students who share my love of writing—it was a no-brainer.”
As Director of Communications, Richards ensured that every meeting and initiative was communicated clearly and effectively, and for her, the Writing Center’s impact goes beyond academic support. “The Center is such a vital part of our School because it provides a place of support and fellowship for all students,” she said, “I loved being able to see how creative our younger students are, and to support them in finding sources or transitions or new techniques.”
Cowan, who co-Directed Development, emphasized the community spirit that anchors their work: “The future of the Writing Center is something I think we are all excited for, even if we will not be there to see it. We all agree that the girls involved in this project are some of the most passionate, intelligent, and motivated people who truly strive for greatness. They are dedicated to helping their peers and helping each other, so I can only imagine what’s to come for the Writing Center.”
The leadership of Torrez, Brown, Cowan, and Richards has redefined what it means to run a Writing Center. Their combined efforts have built a space that fosters confidence, creativity, and community—a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of students at Ashley Hall. “I’m so glad I was able to be a part of this supportive community this past year,” shared Richards. “I’ve loved seeing younger girls find joy in completing their first research projects or excelling in their final essays.”
* This article appeared in the 2025 issue of Perspectives magazine. To read the issue in full, please click here.