Hope in Action: Advisory Brings the Mission Theme to Life This year, Gilmour’s mission theme of hope has taken root in advisory in creative and intentional ways. Each advisor received a “Hope Chest” — a collection of activities, resources and simple tools designed to help advisors foster connection, gratitude and encouragement within their advisory groups. The kits themselves were assembled by members of the freshman class during their summer Mission Morning, making the project a powerful example of students creating hope for others before the school year even began. Inside the chests are resources that spark meaningful conversations and small acts of care — from affirmation prompts and gratitude exercises to instructions for handwritten “Hope Letters” students write to their future selves. Advisors have also been using everyday moments, even the tradition of sharing snacks during Advisory, as opportunities to build community and reinforce the spirit of hope. The Freshman Food Bank trips by advisory are a longstanding tradition. This year, however, the experience was intentionally connected to the mission theme of Hope, with advisory discussions before the visit and reflections afterward inviting students to consider how acts of service can restore dignity, strengthen community and bring hope to others.
A TIMELESS GAME, A LASTING LEGACY Mary Lynn Byrne, widow of Gilmour alum Thomas Byrne ’55 , generously donated her husband’s beautiful marble chess set to the school in his memory. The set now has a special place with the Chess Club, where students regularly use it during meetings and matches. It is a fitting tribute — a timeless game played on a timeless board — honoring Thomas’ legacy while continuing to bring members of the Gilmour community together.
Reflection from one of our freshmen after his Advisory’s visit to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank:
“We went to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, and we were making packages of food that would then be distributed to the seniors in the six counties they service. We completed nine palettes, and 360 packages total. That's 360 entire people who get to put off their food insecurity for a while. People like my Grandpa, who can barely walk or see, being able to get food to make it another day. That's as rewarding as it can get to me. And I get to know I was a part of it. That's what this was to me. Giving hope to those who had lost it, and truly living our mission and focus for this year.”
Thomas Byrne '55 and the Chess Club in 1954 Members of the Chess Club enjoying Mr. Byrne's chess set
Gilmour | SPRING 2026
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