The Berkeley Carroll Lower School recently gathered in the BC Athletic Center for a special assembly celebrating Women’s History Month. The event honored the achievements and influence of women both within the BC community and beyond.

Students and faculty began the celebration by sharing reflections about influential women in their own lives, from family members and teachers to Olympic athletes. Their stories highlighted the many ways women inspire leadership, creativity, and courage.

The assembly also featured a lively trivia game in which students tried to identify women from the Berkeley Carroll community, learning about their accomplishments along the way.

Student presenters spoke about several remarkable BC alumni and leaders, like Margaret Farrar, Class of 1916, who became the first crossword puzzle editor at The New York Times in 1942. Farrar helped design puzzles that were clever, fair, and fun, building a beloved tradition that millions of people still enjoy today.

Students also learned about Celia D. Costas, Class of 1961, a highly accomplished film producer whose work in television and film has earned major honors, including Emmy Awards. Her projects have generated over a billion dollars in revenue and created thousands of jobs in the entertainment industry. In addition to her work as a producer, Costas supports the next generation of filmmakers through partnerships with colleges and film schools.

The assembly also recognized the legacy of Bongsoon Zubay, who served as Berkeley Carroll’s Head of School from 1976 to 2001. During her tenure, the Berkeley Institute and Carroll Street School merged to form the Berkeley Carroll School as we know it today. In honor of her leadership and lasting impact, the school’s Athletic Center is named after her. Zubay also co-authored a book that encourages educators to make thoughtful, ethical decisions in their work.

Finally, students celebrated alumna Shahna-Lee James, Class of 2005, who holds the record for the most points ever scored by a basketball player in Berkeley Carroll history. Today, she continues to support young people as a Dean of Students at a New York City school.

Through stories, games, and shared reflections, the assembly reminded students that the achievements of women, past and present, continue to shape communities, inspire leadership, and open doors for future generations.

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