Honoring Our Past, Inspiring Our Future: The Installation of Emma Ferek
On October 23, members of the Sabot community gathered at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture to celebrate the installation of Emma Ferek as Sabot’s fifth Head of School. The evening marked a meaningful moment in the life of our school, bringing together parents, grandparents, alumni, and friends to honor our history and look ahead to Sabot’s future under Emma’s leadership. We were especially pleased to welcome VAIS President Betsy Johnson; Education Group Consultant Margaret Moore, who supported Sabot’s Head of School search; several fellow VAIS Heads of School; and community partners from across the greater Richmond area.
The program featured remarks from several members of our community, including Brooke Purcell, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and parent of Riker ’27; founding Head of School Irene Carney; Board Chair Grant Shivelight, parent of Solace ’26; and Associate Head of Academics and Research Carol-Margaret Bitner.
In her remarks, Emma reflected on Sabot’s enduring spirit of curiosity, connection, and courage, expressing gratitude to the Board of Trustees, the administrative team, and Sabot’s extraordinary faculty and staff for bringing the school’s mission to life each day. She shared her belief in the transformative power of education and her vision for strengthening Sabot’s impact through joyful inquiry, collaboration, and the continued growth of the Sabot Institute for professional learning. Emma emphasized that Sabot’s commitment to its approach prepares students not only for school, but for a lifetime of meaningful engagement with the world.
Throughout the evening, guests explored an exhibition of student work that highlighted the depth of children’s inquiry and creativity. An interactive community art project invited everyone present to contribute to a collective piece that will live on as a symbol of connection and care. Together, these elements reflected the spirit of Sabot, one rooted in relationships, reflection, and joyful learning.
We are deeply grateful to Board member and parent Dave Kunnen for his support in bringing this event to life, and to our Board of Trustees and Administrative Team for their partnership in making it such a success.
Special thanks to the Atelieristas, Paige Archer, Jāna Vītols, and Richard Garries, for their creativity and contributions, and to the Installation Committee, Carol-Margaret Bitner, Maggie Barrett, and Kelsey Donegan, for their thoughtful planning and execution. Additionally, we extend our gratitude to Brandon Archer for his generous support behind the scenes and to the Virginia Museum of History & Culture for so graciously hosting us. It was an evening that celebrated where we have been, who we are, and all that we are becoming together.
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