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.