Page 6 - Spelman50thReunionBook

FOUNDERS DAY

by Pamela O’Bryant Wells

Founders Day at Spelman is a beautiful and wonderful tradition that spans the realm of time. It is an opportunity to
reflect on, reaffirm and embrace the values and principles for which our school was founded. When we entered as freshmen
in September,1965, we were introduced to
those principals as prescribed by our founders. These principles, coupled with parental values of performance and
responsibility, laid the ground work for who we would become.

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Founders Day is on April 11 where the founding of Spelman is celebrated, and the founders are recognized. We all
were familiar with founders day celebrations, but none quite like Spelman's—the traditions, the pageantry, a sea of white
dresses, and an island of black robes. From our first celebration April 11,1966, to our last, we grew and absorbed the true
meaning of commitment. We better understood and appreciated the homage paid Miss Giles and Miss Packard. On April
11, 1969, our last celebration. We had become that "island of black,” a dress rehearsal for that big day in May. Yes, we
were reverent, but equally joyous and excited about the upcoming graduation. Donning our robes meant we were one month
from beginning our lives beyond the ivied walls

Because of the vision and work of Miss Giles and Miss Packard, we were well educated young black women with a
sense of purpose and determination. Thank you, Miss Giles. Thank you, Miss Packard. Spelman women have made a
significant difference in the world because of the foundation you laid. Thanks to those who followed and will follow because
Spelman gave/gives the same level of commitment that left us believing that “service is the rent we pay for living.”