Last night the GDST celebrated its 150th birthday with an Evening of Celebration, recognising all those who contribute to helping GDST girls become tomorrow’s changemakers.
Over 300 guests attended the evening at London’s Science Museum, including GDST Trustees, School Heads, alumnae volunteers and bursary recipients, including Bromley High Sixth Form pupils Joan and Bethany.
The GDST’s Chief Executive Cheryl Giovannoni delivered a powerful opening speech reflecting on the history of the GDST since it was founded 150 years ago by four pioneering women who dedicated themselves to giving girls a first-class education.
“It is an honour for me to be stewarding the GDST at this time in our history. A time when we are not just celebrating our beginnings in 1872 but a time when I feel we are poised for take-off into a very exciting future.”Cheryl Giovannoni, GDST CEO
During the evening, the GDST 150 Awards were launched in celebration of the 150th anniversary, offering an additional 150 life-changing bursaries over the next four years. The GDST aims to inspire new collaborations and investment in the bursary programme to ensure more girls across England and Wales can access a GDST education.
The 2022 Alumna of the Year Award was also presented to Newcastle High School alumna Dr Ellie Cannon, broadcaster, health writer and NHS GP. Ellie is a champion of public health, particularly levelling up intergenerational women’s health.