Designed for Her: How Baldwin Builds Confident, Capable Young Women

As The Baldwin School enters its 138th year, it does so under the powerful theme of “Designed for Her.” More than a slogan, this year’s theme captures the essence of what makes Baldwin extraordinary: its intentional commitment to an all-girls education that empowers students to become leaders, thinkers, creators, and changemakers.

 

At the school’s opening assembly on September 5, senior student leaders reflected on what this theme means to them. Their stories painted a vivid picture of a school community that uplifts, challenges, and listens to every voice — starting from the earliest years of education through graduation.

Sienna Yocom ’26, Head of the Baldwin Senate, described Baldwin not just as a school, but as a place “designed for her” — a space where students are encouraged to lead, take initiative, and make meaningful change.

 

“It was not until I came to Baldwin freshman year that I knew how to be a leader,” she shared. “Baldwin gave me the opportunity to grow into who I wanted to be from the first day I stepped into the school.”

 

Her words highlighted a key Baldwin principle: leadership is not reserved for a few — it’s cultivated in everyone. “By being a school ‘designed for her,’ we are given the opportunity to make changes and connect this community in impactful and often imaginative ways,” she noted. Whether running for senate, planning events, or changing a rule in the student handbook, students at Baldwin learn that their voices matter.

For Nina Heverin-Alvarado ’26, this supportive environment has been life-changing. As the Head of Service League, she reflected on transferring to Baldwin in third grade and instantly feeling seen and heard.

 

“In a world where we’re constantly told our voices matter less because we’re girls, Baldwin is refreshing,” she said. “Every day, we’re supported by our faculty and teachers to become better critical thinkers, compassionate classmates, and curious learners.”

 

Nina’s journey through Baldwin — from joining the robotics team in Lower School to embracing sports in Middle School, and eventually stepping into leadership in Upper School — illustrates how Baldwin allows students to explore passions in a space where trying, failing, and succeeding are all valued.

 

“This year's school-wide theme of ‘designed for her’ reminds us of how lucky we are to be part of the Baldwin community,” she shared. “Over my 10 years here, I am constantly reminded of how our School provides a unique space where each student can thrive and follow their passions.”

 

She encouraged her peers to combine their passions with service: “If you love to dance, perform for a nursing home. If you love reading, organize a book drive. There are so many ways to do service in a manner that is meaningful to you.

Sophia Chen ’26, the Head of Arts League, connected the theme “Designed for Her” with creative potential. As a student who joined in ninth grade, she spoke about how Baldwin gave her the space to say “yes” to new challenges and grow into herself.

 

“Whether you enjoy theatre, music, fine arts, design, or creative problem-solving, art is about sharing your perspective,” she said. “That’s what leadership is about too.”

 

Sophia emphasized that creativity lives in everyone and encouraged students to find the artist — and the leader — within themselves. Her message was a powerful reminder that expression and voice go hand in hand.

Ayesha Sayeed ’26, Class of 2026 President, took the audience back to her early days at Baldwin as a shy third grader unsure of how she would fit in. What she found, however, was a sisterhood that embraced her.

 

“This environment helps us grow as confident people,” she said. “Whether you are in Pre-K or a senior, you’re always encouraged to speak up, take risks, and push yourself without fear.”

 

She reminded the community that while Baldwin is designed for its students, the students also shape Baldwin every day through kindness, collaboration, and leadership.

Ambea Nmah ’26, Head of the Athletic Association began by admitting that leadership didn’t always feel like a natural role for her. “I was more focused on finding my place and building strong friendships,” she said. “For a long time, I didn’t even see leadership in myself.”

 

But Baldwin, she said, has a quiet way of transforming that narrative — by trusting students before they trust themselves.

 

Leadership, as she’s learned, isn’t about being the loudest in the room. “It’s about being willing to try. To learn. To care. And to keep showing up,” Ambea said.

 

Through her years as a dance captain, choreographer, and athletic association leader, she’s discovered that Baldwin didn’t change who she was — it helped her become more fully herself.

 

From the arts to athletics, service to student government, the stories shared by these senior leaders make one thing clear: Baldwin’s strength lies in its intentional design — a place where young women are encouraged to lead.

 

“Designed for Her” is not about limiting what girls can be. It’s about removing limits entirely.

As the 2025–26 academic year begins, Baldwin students are reminded that this school was built with them in mind — but it is also theirs to shape, improve, and expand. In the words of Ayesha Sayeed, “We also design Baldwin with the choices we make.”

 

And if this year’s assembly is any indication, the future of Baldwin is bright — and boldly led by young women who know their worth, use their voices, and uplift others along the way.