Lower School Students Learn About "Turning Adversity into Opportunities"

On January 18, Dr. Kevin Churchwell, CEO of Nemours/A.I. duPont Children's Hospital, and his wife Gloria talked with Tower Hill 3rd and 4th graders about "Turning Adversity into Opportunity."

Dr. Churchwell highlighted the life of his father Robert Churchwell who grew up during the Depression and became a pioneer in integrating a prominent southern newspaper. Robert was bullied as a child and faced unpleasant obstacles during his career. However, his mental toughness, self-confidence as a gifted writer and acknowledgement of the importance of his education helped him overcome difficult times and become a successful journalist. He won a number of awards and interviewed famous people such as Martin Luther King, Jr.

Gloria Churchwell shared her children’s book Robert Churchwell: Writing News, Making History – Southern Journalism Pioneer, which will be published later this year. The book is about a young girl's struggle after losing her father and attending a new school, Robert Churchwell School, named after Dr. Churchwell's father. The book was written to inspire children to be good role models, and like Robert Churchwell, to work hard, excel and serve others. Mrs. Churchwell shared practical strategies with students who encounter adversity, including remaining confident, practicing eye-to-eye contact and using positive words. However, the highlight for students and faculty was doing the "turn adversity into opportunity" salsa dance.

The Churchwells are parents of Alexandria '13 and John '17. The Tower Hill Lower School Diversity Committee organized the event, in conjunction with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, to empower 3rd and 4th grade students.