GPS Celebrates the Class of 2025 at 119th Commencement Ceremony

On Friday, May 17, Girls Preparatory School celebrated the 119th Commencement ceremony, honoring the achievements, growth, and spirit of the Class of 2025. With 72 seniors receiving their diplomas, the event marked a joyful milestone for students, families, faculty, and the broader GPS community.

Head of School Megan Cover opened the ceremony and welcomed senior Gwyneth Parks to the stage to offer the invocation. Gwyneth reflected on the ways faith and perseverance have shaped the class’s journey: “God, you have guided our steps to where we are today ... we praise you for the ability to enjoy another day and celebrate such an important milestone for the GPS Class of 2025.”

Following a performance by the GPS Singers, Megan returned to the stage with a message of inspiration and gratitude for the graduating class, recognizing both the legacy of the school and their unique contributions to it. "Today you step forward into the next chapter of your lives," she told the seniors. "And while change is inevitable, your legacy and belonging at GPS will never waver as you join the ranks of thousands of bold, brilliant, and brave GPS Bruisers who carry with them a legacy of purpose, integrity, strength, and voice."

Megan also honored outgoing Board Chair Amy Arrowsmith for her remarkable leadership and dedication, calling her “a true champion of our mission and vision.”

Introduced by Head of Upper School Beth Creswell Wilson '96, PhD, two students addressed the class: Valedictorian Charlotte Parsley, who honored the deep bonds formed over the years, saying, “To the Class of 2025, I have been shaped by each of you and inspired by each of you,” and Brie Wallin, who reprised her senior chapel talk in the form of an original song that walked the audience through her seven-year GPS journey with humor and heart. “This wasn’t just my story,” Brie said. “It is our story.”

Board Chair Amy Arrowsmith offered final words of encouragement before diplomas were distributed. “Now, as you step beyond the walls of this beloved school, you leave not only as learners but as leaders,” she said. “GPS will always be your home.”

The class of 2025 includes daughters, granddaughters, and even great-granddaughters of GPS alumnae—strengthening the school’s long legacy of women supporting women. Several diplomas were presented by proud GPS alumnae, faculty, and board members to their daughters and granddaughters, further connecting generations through this special milestone.

Following the traditional moving of tassels and turning of class rings, Megan Cover gave the class one final charge: “Be unapologetically yourself... Use your voice—for yourself, and for those who haven’t yet found theirs. And above all, know this: You belong. Wherever you go, you belong. And your future? It is unlimited.”

The ceremony concluded with a benediction by senior Caiden Williams, the singing of the GPS Alma Mater, and a joyful recessional as faculty, staff, and families gathered to celebrate the new grads.

Congratulations to the GPS Class of 2025!