Speaker Series Welcomes Ellis Community Professionals
From seeing the technique and talent of a florist firsthand to hearing what it takes to make it as an NCAA referee, the Class of 2025 has learned about a variety of different professions from Ellis families and friends this year as part of the grade 5 speaker series. Throughout the year, parents and friends of Ellis have been welcomed into the fifth grade classroom to share their own paths and expertise with students as they begin to consider the age-old question, “what do I want to be when I grow up?”
“The speaker series is something outside of our curriculum that really extends students’ understanding of the outside world,” said Grade 5 Dean and Teacher Amy Sidari. “This year, the girls have learned about a diverse array of fields—from eCommerce and sustainability, to floral design and botany. They love to hear how the speakers got started and always ask a ton of great questions.”
Because students build and develop key skills in Middle School that will set them on the path toward college and career success, this early exposure is invaluable to students as they consider their own futures. The guest speakers serve as positive professional role models and encourage students to envision themselves as scientists, doctors, and entrepreneurs while they are at that crucial age of discovering their own passions and potential. A community-driven way of exposing students to traditional and nontraditional careers, the speaker series enriches students’ understanding of the professional world, so they can chase their dreams without fear of failure once they graduate.
2017–2018 Guest Speakers:
Name | Profession | Relationship |
Cristian Apetrei | Scientist | Parent to Anna, Class of 2025 |
Philip Bauerle | Botanist | Friend of Ellis faculty member, Kelly Gleason |
Dr. Anita Courcoulas | Doctor & Professor of Surgery | Parent of Tessa Gumberg, Class of 2025 |
Macon Finley | Head of School | Head of The Ellis School |
Dr. Ellen Gawalt | Chemistry Department Chair | Parent to Abby, Class of 2023 |
Dr. Crystal Fortwangler | Film director & former professor | Parent to Ruby, Class of 2025 |
Zaheen Hussain | Sustainability Coordinator | Friend of Ellis faculty member, Kelly Gleason |
Dr. Patrick Koeppl | Archaeologist | Parent to Katie, Class of 2022 |
Allison McGeary | Florist | Parent to Reese, Class of 2025, and Mae, Class of 2029 |
Amanda SWANK Sauer ’94 | NCAA Official | Parent to Cate, Class of 2023; Charlotte, Class of 2024; and Cate, Class of 2026 |
Dr. Ivan Tarkin | Orthopedic Surgeon & Professor | Parent of Lily Tarkin, Class of 2025 |
Berry Wanless | Entrepreneur | Parent to Maryella, Class of 2025 |
Envision Her at Ellis
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