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Trailblazer, Record-Setter, Storyteller: Jennifer Pharr Davis Visits Baldwin
This week, The Baldwin School is thrilled to welcome adventurer, author, and speaker Jennifer Pharr Davis for a two-day campus visit that promises to inspire students and faculty alike. Known for her record-breaking hikes and compelling storytelling, Jennifer brings with her a world of experience — both on and off the trail.
A National Geographic Adventurer of the Year and former member of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, Jennifer is no stranger to pushing the limits of what’s possible. She has hiked over 14,000 miles on six continents, including three thru-hikes of the Appalachian Trail. In 2011, she completed the iconic 2,190-mile trail in just 46 days — averaging a jaw-dropping 47 miles per day, and shattering expectations of what women (and mothers) can do in the outdoors.
Supported by The Ruth Fackenthal & Elise Tompkins Partridge '76 Fund for Engagement in Art & Writing, Jennifer will meet with Middle and Upper School students, engage with faculty and staff, and join classes and assemblies to share her unique journey and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
A Full Schedule of Inspiration
Jennifer’s visit is part of a multi-day engagement that includes:
- Assemblies for Middle and Upper School Students
In her keynote titled “The Trailblazer: Lessons from the Appalachian Trail”, Jennifer will share personal stories from the trail that explore themes of resilience, courage, and personal growth. Students will “choose their own adventure” as they select stories ranging from getting lost in a blizzard, to dealing with difficult trail companions, to being struck by splash lightning—all reframed as powerful life lessons about goal-setting, communication, and self-belief. - Meeting with an Upper School Creative Writing Class
Upper School writers will explore nature writing under Jennifer’s guidance with an Outdoor Narrative class. She’ll discuss the publishing process, lead a “show-don’t-tell” writing prompt, and invite students to share their responses — making literature as adventurous as her own journeys. - Health & Wellness Class Visit
In this hands-on session, Jennifer will translate her trail-tested techniques into everyday health strategies. Students will be encouraged to design their own “training plans” for life, focusing on sustainability, self-care, and strength of mind. - Student Athlete Session
Drawing from the physical and mental endurance required in her record-setting feats, Jennifer will connect directly with Baldwin’s student athletes, offering advice on mindset, discipline, and how to thrive under pressure.
Survival Skills for Young Women (and Educators)
Jennifer’s second day on campus will be devoted to Baldwin’s Professional Development Day, where she will deliver the keynote address. Titled “Survival Skills for Young Women — and Faculty,” this workshop will use six powerful stories from the trail to introduce executive functioning and resilience strategies tailored specifically to the needs of today’s students. Through interactive activities and storytelling, Jennifer will lead faculty in exploring topics such as:
- Challenging stereotypes and helping students think outside the box
- Developing routines for resilience and stress management
- Building mental toolkits filled with affirmations, mantras, and motivators
- Prioritizing tasks and cultivating focus
- Standing one’s ground with confidence
- Embracing small acts of self-care that lead to sustainable success
The session is not just about surviving the hardest days — but thriving through them.
While few of us will ever hike the entire Appalachian Trail, Jennifer’s message is one that resonates far beyond the wilderness. At its heart, her visit invites Baldwin students and educators to reflect on their own paths: the risks they’re willing to take, the strength they may not yet see in themselves, and the importance of persistence, community, and voice.
As Jennifer puts it: “Don’t quit on a bad day. Don’t give up when you’re tired, frustrated, or doubting yourselfv… Because later, when you look back, you’ll see the journey wasn’t just about numbers, grades, or trophies — it was about the friendships, the strength, and the self-knowledge you discovered along the way.”
We are honored to host Jennifer Pharr Davis and grateful for the opportunity to learn from a woman who has not only blazed trails but opened doors for others to follow.
