Celebrating Lee-Yardley Day: Honoring Service to Chatham Hall

The day is named in remembrance of two remarkable Rectors, Dr. Edmund Jennings Lee and Dr. William Woolsey Yardley, whose combined 43 years of leadership transformed Chatham Hall into a beacon of excellence in independent education. Their back-to-back tenures helped establish Chatham Hall’s national reputation, and their legacy continues to inspire us.

Dr. Edmund Jennings Lee became the seventh principal of Chatham Hall in 1928, at a time when the school was on the verge of closing. Through his vision and leadership, Chatham Hall not only survived but thrived. Lee guided the school through the Great Depression, expanding its facilities and enrollment. He oversaw the construction of new dormitories, a modern kitchen, an expanded dining room, and a music wing, setting the stage for Chatham Hall’s future. He also launched the school’s equestrian program by building new stables.

Dr. William Woolsey Yardley, recruited by Lee himself, became Chatham Hall’s first “Rector” in 1949, continuing the mission of growth and improvement. Under his leadership, the school added new faculty housing, welcomed male teachers, and introduced Chatham Hall’s first African-American students in 1969. Yardley also led successful funding campaigns that resulted in the construction of Yardley Hall, the Lee Library, and the Virginia Holt Science and Art Building, ensuring that the school remained on the cutting edge of education.

We proudly present the Alice Overbey Award to Susan Bower. Susan has been a warm and welcoming presence in the town of Chatham and the Chatham Hall community for many years. Her generosity shines through in the way she has opened her home, The Bower House, to countless visitors, making each stay unforgettable. Susan’s hospitality goes beyond delicious breakfasts—she creates meaningful connections with everyone she meets, embodying the spirit of love and openness that defines our community.

Rector Stephenson shared, “On a personal note, my family experienced Susan’s kindness during our first visit to Chatham Hall. She made us feel instantly at home, calming the nerves of my young sons as she engaged them in conversation about her love for Tennessee. Her warmth and sincerity made a lasting impression on all of us.”

Susan’s impact extends far beyond her home. She has supported new employees moving to Chatham Hall, welcomed families on move-in days, and is an active member of the Baptist Church of Chatham. Her heart, faith, and love have touched countless lives, and we are honored to recognize her today.

As we celebrate Lee-Yardley Day, we are reminded of the legacy of service and dedication that has shaped Chatham Hall. Susan Bower’s contributions reflect the same commitment and generosity that defined the leadership of Dr. Lee and Dr. Yardley, and we are grateful to have her as a part of our community.

We were grateful to welcome many friends and families to Chatham Hall for this year's event.