PHOTOS: Candlelighting Ceremony Marks the Passing of Leadership in the Upper School

The cherished St. Margaret’s Upper School tradition of Candlelighting took place on Thursday, as leadership of the Upper School student body was ceremoniously transferred from the Class of 2023 to the Class of 2024 inside the Chapel. 

Each member of the senior class lit a candle of a junior class member, illuminating the otherwise dark Chapel with beautiful flickering light. The candles symbolized the passing of leadership, as the tradition takes place during the senior class’ final days on campus. 

The ceremony began as outgoing Associated Student Body president Devin Thomas lit the candle of incoming ASB president Elise Peffer. The rest of the students in the junior and senior classes followed.

“To the classes of 2026, 2025 and especially 2024, take a moment to reflect on how you’ll follow in the footsteps of the seniors,” said Devin, before adding, “It all comes down to three points: Be patient. Be open-minded. And above all, be kind.”

The ceremony included a memorable instrumental performance of “Enchanted” by Ali Botuchis, Tina Mai and Kaitlin Tam, as well as a vocal performance of “Go Light Your World” by Malcolm Matthew. 

After the students finished their ceremony, there was one extra candle to be lit—by Head of School Will Moseley, who passed his flame of leadership to Upper School Principal and Head of School-Elect Jeneen Graham. Dr. Graham will officially start her role as St. Margaret’s fifth Head of School on July 1.

After the final musical performance, the Class of 2023 extinguished their candles, symbolizing the end of their time leading the St. Margaret’s student body with the privilege of leadership now resting with the Class of 2024.

“As you pass the light of leadership onto us,” Elise said to the senior class, “I hope that we, all of us gathered in this special place together, but especially the Class of 2024 as we rise to fill your shoes, continue to shine your light on this special community.

“I hope that we carry with us your ambition, your radiance, your creativity and curiosity, your resilience, humility, and your success.”