The heart of Principia was on display as alumni and students came together for career perspectives and conversations. From the class of 2022 to the class of 1980, alumni across four decades returned to campus to lend their time and expertise with Upper School students. 

The alumni-student collaborations began, rather fittingly, at the annual Upper School career fair. Alumni and other professionals from the St. Louis area came to campus (or joined virtually) to help students explore various careers and industries. Participants represented a variety of fields, including software engineering, the Christian Science practice, and business development. Students gathered in classrooms, around picnic tables, and in front of video screens to learn insights and hard-won lessons from fellow Principians.  

“Principia alumni are some of the most unselfish, involved, and compassionate people, and I think it’s important to engage them in our career fair,” said Kelly (Bingham) Brown (C’00), Director of School Counseling. “It broadens the students’ view of how Principia alumni can help them network and learn about opportunities they might not have been aware of. They start to see the value of being part of this community and how supportive alumni can be.” 

The following day, the multi-generational partnership continued over lunch, as Upper School seniors picked the brains of Principia’s Alumni Association Board. And after an afternoon of laughter, thoughtful discussion, and honest sharing, both students and alumni left with a deeper appreciation for the power of community.  "I thought the lunch was just going to be speeches,” said a member of the senior class, “but the alumni were really cool! They’ve done so much in their careers, and they really listened to us.” 

“It felt special to ‘pay it forward,’” said Principia Alumni Association Board member Amanda Soden (US’97, C’01). “I remember how supportive Principia alumni were when I was a student, and I was so grateful to have the opportunity to support students who are contemplating next steps for college and their career trajectory.” 

And while from the outside, these collaborations may only seem like mentorship opportunities, Principians know a different story—one of shared connection, selfless support, and love for their fellow Principians. “It made me even more grateful for my own Principia experience,” said Soden. "It highlighted just how much I have benefited in my life and career from having a Principia education.”