Grandparents and Grandfriends Gather at Winsor Once More

November 22, 2022—For the first time since 2019, Winsor hosted a special grandparents and grandfriends luncheon with more than 100 in attendance in the Lubin-O’Donnell Center’s Wildcat Room. It was a special treat to welcome so many special guests after three years of pandemic-induced hiatus. 

Director of Advancement Erika McMahon welcomed the crowd and introduced Head of School Sarah Pelmas. In her remarks, Ms. Pelmas spoke a bit about the lively culture at Winsor where the guests’ grandchildren and grandfriends are engaged day to day. Touching on belonging, the theme of this academic year, Ms. Pelmas spoke about beloved traditions such as Spirit Week and Under the Lights, detailing the ways that students show their spirit with creative costumes, fiercely competitive cheers, and gathering to cheer on the athletes at Head of the Charles. She spoke about the deep history of the school and of its founder, Mary Winsor, who came from a family of abolitionists who “ardently supported the cause of equality and freedom.” 

Ms. Pelmas went on to talk about the powerful Winsor community, its diversity, and how students from many varied backgrounds are able to call this school home. “Every single day, at this school, our students look around and they see young women being smart, starring in the school play, being the captain of the soccer team, running student government, speaking their minds, hugging a friend in need, and fighting for what matters to them. Every day they see the power of young women running things, together, with and for one another…!”

Appealing to the grandparents’ role in supporting their grandchildren, Ms. Pelmas reminded the guests that their students often turn to them for steadfastness and support when they are afraid they will disappoint their parents. By being present in their students’ lives as wise adults, grandparents “can help them ride the ups and downs of their experiences just by asking about their day, about their friends, activities, successes and goals…You have the wisdom of experience, and the generational gift of not being their parents. You are basically magical,” Ms. Pelmas added among chuckles. 

The guests dined on squash bisque, chicken salad sandwiches, and autumn salad, with a special treat of Winsor brownies for dessert, with students joining from Lower School and Upper School during their lunch periods. Thank you to our beloved grandparents and grandfriends for joining us and we look forward to welcoming you to Winsor again soon!