At a recent student panel event hosted by Principia’s Howard Society and 1898 Legacy Society and moderated by Jan (Mosteller) Duke (C'82), Howard Society co-chair, four Principia College students shared reflections on their Principia experiences. Their stories, rich with growth, gratitude, and transformation, showcased the impact of Principia supporters.
Amarachi Ejimadu (US’23, C’26), a junior from Nigeria double majoring in biology and chemistry, shared how she found more than she imagined at Principia. “I was looking for a school to advance my academic life, but I found a nurturing environment that advanced my athletics, social, and spiritual life.” This summer, she’s interning at the world-renowned Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. With guidance and funding support from Principia’s Career Center, she navigated a competitive application process to land this prestigious opportunity.
William Hagenlocher (US’21, C’25), a 2025 graduate, shared how Principia helped him discover both his intellectual identity and spiritual foundation. “I discovered that I love to learn, and I want to inspire other people to learn.” From rugby and Dance Production to an abroad in Ecuador and attending Annual Meeting this year, William reflected, “I feel like much more of a whole man coming out of Principia.”
Annabel Hinchman (US’21, C’25), a biology major and outdoor education minor, wasn’t sure about attending Principia College after having grown up on campus. “What brought my spark back for Principia was the biology faculty,” she said. “They opened gateways and gave me opportunities to try so many different things. I've caught salamanders in the Smoky Mountains, tracked rattlesnakes, and even tried doing genetic modifications on plants. Any biology activity you could imagine doing in the real world, we get to try it here.”
Alfredo Boly (C’26), a junior from Argentina, spoke about the community that has embraced him. In addition to rugby and tennis, he has distinguished himself in campus leadership roles, honed his skills in data analysis, and found unexpected inspiration at a Hymn Sing. “That event was something that I had never felt before. It was an incredible experience for me.” Reflecting on his Principia journey, he said, “From alumni, advisors, and coaches, everyone at Principia gives and helps you.”
Members of Principia’s Howard Society (those who give $1,000 or more annually) and 1898 Legacy Society (those who name Principia in their estate plans) make stories like these possible. As one student shared in his concluding comments, “There’s so much opportunity at Principia, and we’re firsthand examples of the many things students can do here because of you.”