Who are the people that help to shape you? What events and experiences make you who you are? What do you value most? Where do you see yourself in twenty years?

Every Moravian Academy seventh grader reflects on these important questions through an annual English class assignment. Through this project, designed by seventh-grade English teacher Mr. Bud Brennan, students share their most important life stories with one another toward the goal of greater awareness, empathy, and understanding. The early Moravians called it a Leibenslauf, or "Life's Course". In seventh-grade English class, it takes the form of an oral presentation and slide show.

On February 12th in Chapel, students and faculty from across the Middle School were invited to hear two of these presentations from Ben Greenberg '25 and Leann Villa '25. These thoughtful reflections are part of an ongoing exploration of identity at the Middle School, which students have explored through Chapel, grade-level activities with our Director of Community and Inclusion Mrs. Karen Washington, and advisory circles dedicated to this topic. Sharing our stories with one another leads to a greater sense of belonging, less judgement, and a stronger sense of community.

Thank you to Ben and Leann for your willingness to pave the way, encouraging us all to get to know one another better. Watch their speeches below: