Celebrating Diversity: A Glimpse into Culture Day at Heathwood Hall
On Friday, March 28, 2025 students in grades 5 through 8 at Heathwood Hall gathered for a vibrant and enriching experience: Culture Day. This event was not just a chance to learn about different countries and traditions; it was a celebration of the diverse cultures that make up the fabric of our community. Culture Day provided an inclusive and engaging opportunity for students to explore the varied backgrounds, perspectives, and traditions that exist both within and beyond our walls.
The idea for Culture Day was born out of the Middle School Culture Club Leadership, Zahra Garrick, ‘28, Gray Powell, ‘28, Deana Williams, ‘28, Evy Engh, ‘28, and Hannah Coney, ‘28, whose hard work and dedication made this event possible. In 2023, their vision was to create a space where students could learn and appreciate global cultures, fostering cultural awareness and respect.
Upper School representatives Zahra Garrick, ‘28, Gray Powell, ‘28, Deana Williams, ‘28, kicked off the day’s event sharing that they felt introducing Culture Day to current Middle Schoolers allowed for a deeper understanding to see how we’re more alike than different, and how those similarities help create a sense of belonging. They shared that they felt the day was a reminder that we all share common experiences, whether in their thoughts, actions, religions, or traditions, and that this shared experience helps build empathy and stronger connections moving forward in life.
The day was filled with exciting, hands-on learning opportunities and meaningful interactions that encourage open-mindedness and curiosity about the world. Students had the chance to explore a wide array of cultures and traditions, each presented by experts and community members. Presentations included in-depth looks at countries like Ukraine, Venezuela, Mexico, and Brazil, along with topics like Native American history, the Geechee Gullah culture, indigo production, and Catholicism. Students also learned about other global cultures including those of Jamaica, Korea, Aboriginal Australians, Judaism, and China.
The breadth of the event spanned various aspects of culture, from the arts to religion, language to food, history to modern-day life. Other highlights included baseball as a cultural phenomenon, the African Methodist Episcopal Church, African American culture, and Southern history and culture. Additionally, students learned about Colombia, Vietnam, and the rich traditions of Trinidad & Tobago, as well as the importance of indigo production in South Carolina.
One particularly special moment came when students had the opportunity to learn about Saudi Arabian culture, thanks to the participation of three international students from the University of South Carolina (UofSC) who, despite observing Ramadan, chose to share their rich cultural heritage with the students. It was a moving example of dedication to building bridges and sharing knowledge across cultural boundaries.
Culture Day Appreciation
None of this would have been possible without the support of the many presenters, volunteers, and faculty who dedicated their time and energy to make the event happen.
Special thanks go to the following speakers, whose insights and enthusiasm contributed to the success of Culture Day:
Eva Foussat
Holly Selvig
Lyuda Falter
Rev. Chery
Yevheniia (Jenna) Bazaliy
Dr. Boutte
Rabbi Uriarte
Dr. & Mrs. Luke Learie
Rev. Joi Artis
Peggy Jacobs
Ben Jett
Mark Smith (American Southern Cultural History)
Mariel Ferrell
Victoria Abrantes
Trevor Wright
Skeeter Ashman
The day was a true testament to the power of cultural exchange and understanding. It reminded everyone that no matter where we come from or what traditions we hold dear, we are all part of the same global community.
Culture Day has left a lasting impact on all who participated. The lessons learned will undoubtedly guide students in their interactions with others and in their approach to navigating an increasingly globalized world.
As we move forward, let us continue to be more thoughtful and understanding in how we connect with those from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
A World of Connections: Flags in the Robinson Center Celebrate Global Ties
Mon, 15 Dec 2025
A World of Connections: Flags in the Robinson Center Celebrate Global Ties
PEAK Program
PEAK Program | Outdoor Adventure Programs | Heathwood Hall
PEAK Program | Outdoor Adventure Programs | Heathwood Hall
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PEAK
Adventure. Leadership. Growth.
Through curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular programs, the PEAK (Pursuits in Experiential Adventure and Knowledge) program offers every Heathwood Hall student—from age 2 through 12th grade—opportunities to push their limits, grow as leaders, and develop a lifelong love of adventure and the natural world.
PEAK, founded in 1998, offers hands-on opportunities for wilderness exploration, environmental education, outdoor adventure, and leadership development. PEAK began as an opportunity for Heathwood Hall students to challenge themselves and gain confidence through experiences in nature and on high ropes elements. Today, PEAK continues to serve students EC-12, while also having grown to offer event services and programming to the broader community.
PEAK is for Every Highlander
Empowering students of all ages to grow as leaders, adventurers, and stewards of the natural world.
Through curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular programs, PEAK presents every single student at Heathwood Hall, from 2-year olds to 12 graders, with opportunities to push their limits, to become better leaders, and to develop a love of adventure and the natural world. In addition to curriculum-based formal Outdoor Education classes, PEAK offers after-school adventure programs, multi-day adventure outings and expeditions for Heathwood students, programs and events for special interest and non-profit groups, community education programs, corporate leadership training and team building programs, and summer camps and expeditions.
promote an understanding and appreciation for the natural world,
develop and enhance specific sets of outdoor and wilderness skills, including those associated with paddling, climbing, mountain biking, backpacking and Leave No Trace wilderness ethics,
encourage positive and meaningful decision-making, communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills,
expand self-imposed circles of comfort and ability by promoting safe opportunities for healthy risk-taking,
inspire feelings of confidence, qualities of leadership, and a willingness to compromise,
encourage social responsibility and engage the local community to improve the quality of life for others.
PEAK by Division
Early Childhood
Our youngest adventurers in EC3 and EC4 paddle the campus pond, hike the Weston Nature Trail, and don climbing gear for special seasonal adventures—like “flying like reindeer” during the holidays.
Lower School
In Lower School, students enjoy after-school PEAK enrichment clubs that introduce foundational outdoor skills such as hiking, climbing, and paddling, all while learning the values of teamwork and persistence.
Middle School
Middle Schoolers participate in a dedicated PEAK class focused on outdoor adventure, personal challenge, and healthy risk-taking. Class trips and outdoor learning experiences help build confidence, self-awareness, and strong peer connections.
Upper School
Upper School students can take their PEAK journey to the next level by becoming PEAK Student Leaders (PSLs), mentoring younger students while honing their leadership skills. Students also participate in Wild X, join the Outdoor Club, and take part in domestic and international expeditions offered during Winterim and summer months.
Exploring Futures: Heathwood Hall's Middle School Career Day Brings Alumni and Experts Together
Heathwood Hall welcomed alumni, parents, and friends to campus for Middle School Career Day. Highlanders in grades 5-8 had the opportunity to hear about a wide variety of professions and the paths that led our speakers to their careers. From what it takes to fly a commercial jet to how it feels to perform a heart transplant, our guests shared valuable insight into why they chose their respective careers and the challenges and rewards they encounter on the job.
Career exploration in Middle School offers many benefits for students. From developing more self-awareness to gaining a better understanding of future opportunities, Middle School is the perfect time to explore familiar and new possibilities
Stacy Gross, ’95
Middle School Counselor
Special thanks to the following guests for sharing their time and valuable insight with us!
Sally Cheung- Owner, Alley Street Eats
Dr. Bear Coney- Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Gene Dinkins ‘96- Engineer
Paige Edwards- Realtor
Mark Van Essen- Professor, USC
Judi Gatson- Journalist
Paul Gowder- Digital Creator
Jaime Harrison- Attorney & Politician
Dr. Cashena Hastie ‘96- Psychiatrist
Thomas Hipp ‘08- Commercial Realtor
Ashley Lindler - Owner, A Little Happy
Alissa Marchione- Research Scientist
Maxwell Oliver- Commercial Pilot
Matt Riddle- AgSouth Bank
Rebecca Smith & Matt Faile- RCSD Gang Unit
Steph Sox ‘00- Nurse & Medical Administrator
Andrew Wagoner ‘07- Owner, Capital Karate
Click here to view our photo gallery.
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A Wild Night of Giving: Heathwood's Annual Wild Game Dinner Success
What a "wild" night! The annual Wild Game Dinner to support Heathwood Athletics was a huge success. Folks will be talking about this one for a while!
Wild Game Dinner: Powered by Volunteers
Did you know the Wild Game Dinner is organized entirely by volunteers? Please join us in giving a big round of applause to all our Highlander Athletic Booster Club (HABC) members, chefs, and volunteers for their hard work!
About the Highlander Athletics Booster Club
The HABC supports Heathwood Hall's student-athletes and athletic events. Membership is open to parents, grandparents, alumni, and friends of Heathwood.
How HABC Members Make a Difference
Volunteering time and expertise to build community and raise funds
Selling concessions at sporting events and tournaments
Providing advertising opportunities in:
Sports programs
The athletics website
The digital video board
The mobile concessions unit
Impact of the HABC
Each year, the HABC raises over $100,000 to support student-athletes, coaches, trainers, and athletic facilities.
Thank you to our members and community for your generosity and commitment—you make Heathwood stronger!
