A Message From the Head of School

Welcome to Purnell!  

I often talk about my love story with Purnell.  I talk about how each day, I fall in love with it over and over again and how I always find new things to love about it.  Purnell is a place where one grows and learns in the most significant ways because of the relationships that are developed here.  I fell in love with Purnell because of its mission and I stay because of the people.  At Purnell, our staff create, develop, and implement programs with such care, enthusiasm, and dedication. We create a school that allows young women to explore, expand, and engage in their strengths. We are the preeminent strengths-based boarding school in the country, with award winning programs featured on national television. Purnell's faculty are creative with their classes, responsive to the needs of adolescents, and dedicated to the founding mission of the school.  Purnell's diverse and unique students come here so that they can be a part of a community and share in a journey of discovery.  Our students graduate ready to take their stand in the world as women and leaders who are successful, confident, and educated.  It is here at Purnell where leaders are made.

Being a graduate of an all-girls school myself, I appreciate the camaraderie of a sisterhood; Purnell is a place where students will discover their strengths, explore their talents and live their passion.  The students change from year to year, but the mission stays the same.  Our website will give you the general information about our programs, but to really understand and get to know our school, you must come and meet the people who make up this community.  We invite you to come to campus to see for yourself, and to fall in love with Purnell over and over again. 

We hope to see you soon!

Ayanna Hill-Gill
Head of School 

Recent Messages from the Head of School
A Message Following the Sandy Hook Elementary School Tragedy
Fall 2012 Convocation Speech

2011-2012 Messages from the Head of School
Winter 2012 New Year Greetings
Fall 2011 Convocation Speech