The Bridges We Cross

Every journey begins with a single step. For Lower Schoolers, that journey begins across the bridge — home to Luck and Reynolds Hall, the Watt Library and the Weinstein Wing. It’s where students built their foundation. And, both symbolic and literal, that journey continues as Lower Schoolers cross the bridge to the Middle School. This year, that crossing took on deeper meaning.

This year’s ceremony marked a new tradition for the School. On what would have been her birthday, the Collegiate community gathered to dedicate the bridge in honor of late Lower School Head Debbie Miller. With parents, teachers, students, members of the Miller family, and special guests in attendance, the event was both joyful and reverent, a moment of celebration and reflection. 

Gentle sunlight splashed across the newly named Miller Bridge as the 4th Graders stepped from the Lower School to the Middle School, marking a significant moment of growth in their Collegiate experience. 

The bridge has long served as the passageway for Collegiate’s 4th Grade students as they transition into the next chapter of their academic journey. This rite of passage is steeped in the values that anchor the Collegiate experience. “This crossing marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another,” Head of School Jeff Mancabelli told the 4th Graders. “It is a celebration of all that you have learned and the ways you have grown, hopefully with a deeper understanding of our core values: honor, respect, love of learning, excellence, and community.”

In every classroom, hallway, and corner of Collegiate, everyone felt Debbie’s presence. Now, dedicated in her honor, the bridge serves as a symbol of the growth Debbie has helped instill in countless students. For Debbie, the students always came first. This is how she led, made decisions, and lived her vocation; she always focused on the needs of the students entrusted to her care. As Lower Schoolers cross the bridge, named the Miller Bridge, they will do so with Debbie’s steadfast guidance. On the Lower-School side of the Miller Bridge stands a plaque bearing a handprint, symbolizing Debbie’s hand, which was always there to guide each student. “This plaque is a quiet but powerful reminder of her presence and the legacy she leaves behind,” Mancabelli said. “By touching [the plaque], you are symbolically receiving a final gesture of encouragement from someone who believed deeply in your potential. Let it remind you that you carry a piece of Mrs. Miller’s kindness and joy with you as you step forward into your next adventure.”

In addition to the naming of the bridge, Collegiate announced two meaningful initiatives to further honor Debbie’s legacy. First, thanks to the generosity of the Parents’ Association and Collegiate families, the bridge will undergo thoughtful renovations this summer. Second, a new endowment fund has been established in her name through the support of the Parents’ Association, parents, alumni, and trustees.

“This fund will support financial assistance for students at Collegiate,”  Mancabelli said. “This was a passion for Mrs. Miller, and we are grateful to everyone who supported this endeavor.”

Debbie leaves behind a community that was enriched by her presence. Her spirit will always continue to inspire and guide students and teachers alike. This new tradition is yet another symbol of her enduring legacy, and no matter where the journey takes the Class of 2033, the lessons Debbie and the rest of the Lower School faculty instilled in these students will guide them. “As you take your steps today, carry that spirit with you,” Mancabelli said. “Know that you are ready. Know that you are supported. And know that your Lower School family will always be cheering you on, wherever your journey leads.”