During Reunion Weekend on September 26, 2026, generations of Newark Academy women including alumni, current parents and faculty, came together for the Women of NA Tea, a conversation that celebrated the relationships and experiences that continue to shape members of the NA community long after graduation. Moderated by Assistant Head of School for Teaching and Learning Nancy Celente, the panel featured Trustee Emerita Kim Hirsh ’80 and her daughters, Elana Widmann Schoenbrum ’10 and Sara Widmann ’15, who reflected on Newark Academy through the perspectives of alumni, family and community members. Across their stories, a common theme emerged: the importance of communication and connection. From teachers who recognized students as individuals and challenged them to grow, to the confidence built through classroom discussions, writing and presentations, the panelists reflected on how NA helped them develop their own voices while giving them the confidence to use them.

The conversation also highlighted the broad perspective a Newark Academy education can provide. Sara reflected on the ways her experiences at NA exposed her to global perspectives and opportunities beyond her immediate community, while Elana discussed how the communication skills she developed at NA have carried into her professional life. That connection between an enduring educational foundation and a changing world was particularly evident when a current parent asked about artificial intelligence. Elana, who works professionally in the AI field, shared her enthusiasm for seeing Newark Academy thoughtfully integrate AI into its curriculum and prepare students to engage with emerging technology. Together, the discussion reinforced something familiar across generations of NA students: while the world students are preparing to enter continues to change, the value of strong teachers, intellectual curiosity, meaningful communication and a supportive community remains constant.

The afternoon also provided an opportunity to look toward Newark Academy’s next chapter. As the conversation turned to philanthropy and what inspires families to give back, Kim Hirsh ’80 announced the kickoff of the Ad Lumen Campaign, a $30 million comprehensive campaign supporting three priorities central to the School’s future: expanding financial aid, supporting faculty and staff, and investing in sustainable spaces. The announcement was a fitting conclusion to a conversation rooted in the impact of an NA education across generations. That impact was evident even after the panel ended: attendee and Satya Narisety P’27, ’31 shared that when her son later called for help with his college essay, she immediately found herself drawing upon ideas she had heard during the discussion. It was a small but meaningful example of the afternoon’s larger message — that the conversations, relationships and lessons fostered at Newark Academy continue well beyond the classroom and are carried forward from one generation to the next.