2025 Ashley Hall Alumnae Association Awards
Left to right: Franny Rivers Slay ’80; Lauren Smith ’10; Molly Dingledine ’00 (Not pictured: Elizabeth Gouldon Mooney ’04)
The Ashley Hall Alumnae Association is pleased to announce the 2025 Alumnae Association Award Winners including the Dewar Gordon Holmes ’26 Distinguished Alumna Award. Please join us in congratulating these alumnae who embody the mission of Ashley Hall both professionally and personally.
2025 Alumnae Award Winners
Given to an Ashley Hall alumna who exhibits outstanding volunteer and community service, this award honors Fern Karesh Hurst, Class of 1964.
MOLLY DINGLEDINE ’00
Molly Dingledine ’00 has dedicated her career to empowering women, uplifting communities, and creating change through action. At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched Sisters in Circles. This grassroots initiative produced and sold over 5,000 face masks, employing resettled refugee seamstresses and donating hundreds of masks to those in need. The profits funded Sisters Uganda, a nonprofit supporting health education and economic empowerment for women and girls in rural Uganda. Through sewing programs, menstrual health education, and psychosocial support, Molly has helped countless women gain the confidence and tools to thrive.
Molly’s impact reaches beyond global borders. In Asheville, NC, she played a vital role in Hurricane Helene relief efforts, organizing clean water deliveries and housing first responders and volunteers. She continues to support local artists and refugees, building networks of care and opportunity wherever she goes. Known for her compassion, creativity, and drive, Molly is a connector—bringing people together to solve problems and inspire hope. Her work exemplifies the values instilled at Ashley Hall and reflects a deep belief that when women support one another, communities grow stronger.
Given to an Ashley Hall alumna who exhibits outstanding achievement in her chosen profession, this award honors Crandall Close Bowles, Class of 1965.
FRANNY RIVERS SLAY ’80
For four decades, Franny Rivers Slay ’80 has been a driving force behind Ashley Hall’s athletic success. As Head Volleyball Coach, she led her teams to 825 victories, 12 South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA) State Championships, and numerous runner-up finishes. In 1994, she became Athletic Director, overseeing 12 sports with a commitment to excellence, character, and inclusion. Known for her fairness and heart, Franny mentors both students and coaches, building a program rooted in discipline, resilience, and sportsmanship.
Franny’s contributions extend far beyond wins and titles. In 2015, she was named SCISA 3-AAA Volleyball Coach of the Year, and in 2019, the South Carolina Senate honored her outstanding coaching career. Her greatest legacy, however, lies in the generations of young women she has inspired—athletes who return to Ashley Hall to cheer on new teams and thank the coach who helped shape their lives.
Given to an Ashley Hall alumna who has been recognized by her peers for outstanding work in the performing or visual arts, this award honors Mrs. Martha Rivers Ingram, Class of 1953.
ELIZABETH GOULDON MOONEY ’04
Elizabeth Gouldon Mooney ’04 has built a celebrated career in the visual arts as a talented photographer and filmmaker. She co-founded the creative team Sean Money + Elizabeth Fay, known for their evocative work in weddings, fashion, architecture, and portraiture. Their artistry has been featured in many notable publications.
Elizabeth’s creative reach extends beyond photography. She and her husband also designed Ashley Hall’s Centennial Exhibition, showcasing their shared commitment to storytelling through design. A cum laude graduate of the College of Charleston, Elizabeth combines technical skill with an eye for beauty and authenticity. Her work celebrates connection, emotion, and the everyday moments that shape our lives—making her a standout recipient of the Martha Rivers Ingram ’53 Excellence in the Arts Award.
Given to an Ashley Hall alumna, 35 years old or younger, who personally and professionally exhibits the mission of the School, this award honors the memory of Tonisha Bell Alston, Class of 1999 whose life and independent spirit embodied the key pillars of the Ashley Hall mission.
LAUREN SMITH ’10
Lauren Smith ’10 has always known she wanted to teach—and she’s made that dream a powerful reality. After earning her master’s in elementary education, Lauren moved to New Orleans, where she teaches in an under-resourced school, often managing classrooms of 25 or more students without an aide. Despite the challenges, Lauren creates a nurturing, structured environment rooted in high expectations and individualized support. Her commitment to improving student literacy has earned her notable recognition, and she regularly tutors after school to ensure every student succeeds.
Beyond the academic year, Lauren continues to serve. She has participated in several summer educational programs, including the Horizons initiative at Ashley Hall, where her leadership and dedication shine. A true embodiment of the School’s mission, Lauren blends compassion with determination, inspiring students to believe in themselves and their potential. Her work is a testament to the lasting influence of passionate educators and the power of one teacher to change lives.
The Dewar Gordon Holmes Award honors an alumna who has demonstrated dedicated time, insight, talents, and volunteer service to Ashley Hall.
FRANNY RIVERS SLAY ’80
A dual 2025 Alumnae Award Winner, Franny Rivers Slay ’80 was also awarded the Crandall Close Bowles ’65 Award for outstanding professional achievement. Please see her complete bio above.