Alumni gather at the Glenholme School

Glenholme’s 13^th Annual Alumni Day last Wednesday brought together former students and teachers for a heartfelt day of connections, advice and recollections. Following a morning of “catching up with each other,” participants were treated to a special sneak preview of the students’ summer theatrical production, “The Lion King Kids“.

The highlight of the day was an Alumni Panel. Current upper classmen asked the former students questions on how they moved from Glenholme into college, careers and life. While some of the alumni have received college and post graduate degrees, all were either employed, getting additional education or working towards a career. Questions included, “How do you keep moving forward without the supports you get here [at Glenholme]”

The alum responded openly. “When you are here, you develop routines. Use those routines and prioritize.” A young woman said, “You find an ambition and keep moving forward; keep moving towards it” Another voice chimed in, “Take the lessons you learn here to heart. These strategies become part of who you are.”

Glenholme is a therapeutic boarding school whose goal is to prepare graduates for post-secondary college and career opportunities. Youngsters diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression and learning differences attend. They are provided with emotional, social and academic supports.

Other questions asked were: “What was the best piece of advice that you ever got?”, “How do you cope with the college work load and social life?” and “What was the hardest part of transitioning from Glenholme?”

This exchange between the school population and alumni was well-received by the students. While transitions are not easy for the hardiest and most resilient, current students were inspired by the courage, fortitude and successes that alumni openly shared.

Organizer Courtney Delaney, Director of Development offered this observation, “The camaraderie between Glenholme Alumni and staff remains strong as demonstrated by the participation of Alumni spanning the five decades or our school’s history. Welcoming students back to campus where their journey first began is always a joy; especially to witness the gratitude and appreciation they have as they reflect back on their time spent at Glenholme.”