Leadership

Bringing out the best in others

We believe that while everyone may not be born a leader, any student can become one. At Dana Hall, leadership isn’t about power—it’s about listening, following through, teamwork, and collaboration. Our commitment to help students learn how to bring out the best in others is one reason why so many Dana Hall alumnae take on leadership roles after graduation, where they use their skills to launch new companies, advance social justice, build effective teams, and make the world better.

Student leaders play a critical role in ensuring that Dana Hall continues to be a fun, challenging, dynamic, engaging, and active place. Whether it’s managing an athletic team, planning (and running) a school event, directing a play, serving as a class officer, or starting a club, leadership opportunities are everywhere. Our leaders benefit from a strong network of support, thanks to the training, coaching, and feedback they receive from caring adults who are committed to their success. Every other year, Dana Hall also hosts the She Sails conference—a full day of speaker presentations, workshops, and alumnae panels focused on fostering leadership skills in young women.

I support our School mission by being a community builder and hosting spaces to encourage advocacy, self and social awareness, and deepening the sense of belonging within our community.” AShleigh '22

Leadership Positions

Every year, leaders are elected or selected for the School’s major clubs and organizations. At the beginning of election season, students are encouraged to think about areas they have been particularly interested and involved in and consider if they would want to take on greater responsibility for that club or organization.

A hallmark of Dana Hall leadership is that most positions are shared, such as co-heads or co-presidents. It's an exercise in teamwork, and it also helps to lighten the workload. And at Dana Hall, don't forget that every leadership position is filled by a girl.

Leadership Workshops

Middle School SAIL

In Middle School, student government is called SAIL: Students Aspiring to Inspiring Leadership. Students self-nominate and present speeches to their grade, which elect SAIL representatives. SAIL members report back to their grade after SAIL meetings and also take leadership roles at all-school events such as Thanksgiving Convocation, Step Sings, pep rallies, social events and community service projects.

She Sails

In alternating years, Dana Hall hosts She Sails: Inspiring Dana Hall Women, a day-long conference on women and leadership. Participants create connections, learn from one another, share stories and encourage one another to be bold and dream big. The entire Dana Hall community is invited: students, alumnae, faculty, staff and parents. The day includes speakers, panel discussions, activities and networking opportunities.