This morning, Saints of all ages gathered in Memorial Chapel to honor the life and legacy of Walter Lindsey ‘75, the first Black student to graduate from St. Christopher’s. In a moving service, StC alumnus George Dunston ‘87 encouraged Upper School students to show understanding, courage and respect for each other and to work together to create a welcoming, equitable school community. 

Recalling Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech, Dunston looked to a hopeful future.“If there is any generation of students able to make Dr. King’s dream a reality, I believe it is the one I see before me today,” said Dunston. “Born in this new century and tested by the greatest crisis in recent history, you have within you the qualities to build a true table of brotherhood here at St. Christopher’s.” 

Following the service, the Black Student Union joined Lindsey’s family and StC alumni in attendance to dedicate a young pine tree and gathering space. Friends and family members remembered Lindsey fondly, recognized the challenges of being one of the first Black students at StC and shared their thoughts with current StC students of color. 

“It’s so important for us to elevate and illuminate history”, said Director of Community and Inclusion Edwin Cowell. “It’s important to the fabric of this institution, and it’s extremely exciting to see Walter’s friends and family here. They just bring so many stories with them to help us bring a deeper understanding of St. Christopher’s history.”