Three Students Share Summer Inspired Learning Grant Experiences

Four students applied for and received grants to begin their projects last summer. Three shared their challenges and successes during Morning Meeting presentations over the past few weeks.

Following are brief reflections from Chiara D. ’25, Wren E. ’26, and Raven L. ’26.

Chiara D. ’25 | How to Build a Business Like a Woman Interviews

“During my junior year, I was eager to spend my summer pursuing meaningful experiences aligned with my interests. The Summer Inspired Learning Grant offered the perfect opportunity to stay motivated, productive, and engaged during a long break. Through the grant, I had the privilege of interviewing inspiring women across various fields of business, including marketing, political strategy, communications, philanthropy, and management. These conversations not only improved my understanding of what it takes to run a successful organization, but also shed light on the challenges women continue to face in male-dominated fields.”

Wren E. ’26 | Wrenaissance Art Project

“For my Studio Art 3 class at Foxcroft, I was given the opportunity to research and propose my own ideas for my artwork. While studying art techniques, I stumbled upon chiaroscuro, a Renaissance style that utilizes contrast to create depth in art. This piqued my interest and led me to dive deeper into all things Renaissance. I fell in love with the art, the craft, and the hidden lives of the masters. 

“For my Summer Inspired Learning Grant, I wanted to share my passion for Renaissance art while making it fun and accessible for my age group. 'Wrenaissance' was a project dedicated to my personal rebirth as an artist. With the grant, I researched the art and artists of the Renaissance, took private lessons from local artist J Douglas, travelled to New York and Washington, DC to explore the art in person, and transformed my process into an interactive website. I built online 'dating profiles' with the artists, and chronicled my 12 Dates with the Greats on my blog. As part of my Fine Arts Concentration, I will continue my project and incorporate a digital marketplace where I will sell prints of my artwork. You can visit my website at: www.Wrenaissanceart.com”

Raven L. ’26 | Art Website and Animation Company Project

“When I first heard about the Summer Inspired Learning Grant, I knew that I was going to apply. I wasn’t sure what my project would be or even what path I would go down. All I knew was my strong passion for the arts, which I was never able to explore due to financial constraints. I’ve been running a small business on Instagram selling digital art commissions for a few years, but I knew I wanted to expand that. That was where my idea was born, I was going to start my own small business selling digital art and physical items that could be shipped and delivered around the world. The Summer Learning Grant was the stepping stone I needed to jump headfirst into my future. I’ve been learning and growing my skills while also facing new challenges and overcoming them. Thanks to the Summer Learning Grant, I was able to fulfill a life dream!”