GPS Celebrates the Class of 2026 at 120th Commencement

On Saturday, May 16, Girls Preparatory School celebrated its 120th Commencement, honoring the Class of 2026 in a ceremony marked by reflection, resilience, and the enduring strength of sisterhood.

Families, faculty, staff, trustees, and friends gathered to recognize 67 graduates as they crossed the stage and joined the global community of GPS alumnae. The ceremony opened with a warm welcome from Head of School Megan Cover, followed by an invocation from Georgia Mae Anderson and a musical performance by the GPS Singers.

In keeping with school tradition, the Commencement program centered on student voices. Valedictorian Lola Lawless addressed her classmates, reflecting on the shared experiences that defined their time at GPS. Using the progression of class colors—from navy and light blue to purple, green, pink, yellow, and finally white—she described the uniform as a symbol of their journey together and the sisterhood formed along the way.

“Today, we say a final goodbye to our white,” Lola said, marking the transition from students to alumnae. While the uniforms may change, she reminded her classmates that the values and connections they built at GPS will remain. She encouraged the Class of 2026 to carry forward a spirit of honor, integrity, and purpose as they step into new environments.

Lily Bernard followed, reprising her Chapel Talk, as selected by her peers. She reflected on the joy of being fully present with friends and the realization that growing up does not mean leaving that spirit behind. She encouraged her classmates to carry forward the sense of curiosity, connection, and joy that defined their time together at GPS.

Board of Trustees Chair Ashley Davenport ’97 delivered the Commencement address, celebrating not only the academic achievements of the class but the character forged throughout their time at GPS. She reflected on the unique experience of this class, many of whom began their middle school years just before the disruptions of 2020.

“And yet—you endured,” Ashley said. “You endured as a class!”

Her remarks emphasized the GPS values of honor, respect, and relationships and encouraged graduates to carry those principles forward.

“Strong women do not diminish others; we empower and celebrate each other,” she reminded them.

The presentation of diplomas followed, a moment made especially meaningful as several students received their diplomas from family members who are part of the GPS community.

With the turning of tassels and rings, the Class of 2026 was officially welcomed into the ranks of GPS graduates. In her closing charge, Megan encouraged the graduates to embrace both confidence and curiosity as they step into the future.

“Be unapologetically yourself. Lead with empathy. Choose purpose over perfection,” she said. “And above all, know this: You belong. Wherever you go, you belong.”

The ceremony concluded with a benediction from Bennett Brown, the singing of the Alma Mater, and a joyful recessional, as faculty and staff lined the way to celebrate the newest alumnae.

As the Class of 2026 begins its next chapter, they carry with them not only the lessons of their education, but the enduring spirit of GPS, rooted in tradition, strengthened by community, and full of unlimited possibility.