Chapel Talks: A Culminating Moment

Senior Chapel Talks are one of the most cherished Stuart Hall traditions, and this year's talks kicked off with Theoren G. '25 speaking about "finding your person." 

These 7-10-minute talks connect personally significant topics to the community. The exercise draws upon the writing skills developed during students' time at Stuart Hall, as well as their creativity, communication, and critical thinking skills. 

Historically, Chapel Talks revolved around a theme selected during the Senior Retreat. While the purpose of the talks remains to spark introspection, pose questions, and foster communal reflection, today's talks now focus on one of three areas:

• Holidays or occasions, like Women’s History Month, Lunar New Year, or the anniversary of the birth or death of a loved one
• A focus on the value of building community
• Life lessons

In addition, each student asks a member of the faculty, staff, or administration for a formal introduction. 

When alumni were asked about the meaning of Chapel Talks, their responses included: 

“Writing, preparing, and practicing my Chapel Talk was my first experience with talking in front of a large group, which was invaluable.”

“From the time I began at Stuart Hall I looked forward to giving my Chapel Talk, and I was overly excited when I was able to give mine on my 18th birthday. Chapel Talks are a way for seniors to reflect on their adolescence and time at STU before they take their next steps. I couldn’t see Stuart Hall without Chapel Talks.”