Congratulations to Sophie Kavalali '23 on receiving the Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award from the University of Rochester for her work in the field of social justice.
By Pat Miletich, HS History Teacher
Sophie Kavalali '23 received the Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award from the University of Rochester.
According to the university's website, the award criteria include a "demonstrated commitment to understanding and addressing social issues, leadership and dedication to community action, and strong grades and rigorous courses taken in the humanities and social sciences."
Sophie serves on the Mayor's Youth Council, where she has focused on issues of housing and homelessness. Sophie has worked on projects addressing poverty, the impact of I-40 on Nashville's Black community, and gentrification.
Sophie's award puts her in the tradition of pioneers for justice and equality.
On August 25, 2026 at 6:30 p.m., USN counseling department invites 10th grade parents and families to attend a virtual parent education event, Introduction to Human Sexuality Seminar Series and being an askable parent. Register to attend here.
By Kalen Russell Assistant Director of Communications
Allison Van Konynenburg returns to USN as Interim HS Dean of Teaching and Learning. Taking on additional responsibilities this academic year, Justin Fitzpatrick is now Interim HS Dean for Academic Affairs and Laura Snow is the High School Academic Operations Manager.
Please join us in welcoming to USN: LS Spanish Teacher Connor Mitchell, LS Music Teacher Marisa Frank, LS Learning Support Specialist MacKenzie Grant, Fourth Grade Teacher Alexis Novotny, Second Grade Teachers Cara Bishop and Lindsay Moates, First Grade Teachers Marisa Depke and Molly Roth '10, and Kindergarten Teacher Ellen Haber '00. Also, Naturalist Carrie Riley transitions to LS from the HS Science Department.
USN Mission: University School of Nashville models the best educational practices. In an environment that represents the cultural and ethnic composition of Metropolitan Nashville, USN fosters each student’s intellectual, artistic, and athletic potential, valuing and inspiring integrity, creative expression, a love of learning, and the pursuit of excellence.