Durham, North Carolina
- Rebecca Pomery Shores
Why did you choose to attend EHS?
The moment we drove up the tree-lined drive, I knew it was
the place for me. Gorgeous campus, kind students, and involved teachers (and
administrators) made it easy to choose.
Tell us about your most recent visit to Episcopal.
Unfortunately, it was far too long ago! I missed the
five-year reunion, but I had returned a few years after graduation to check
things out. I’m eager to see the new buildings!
What is your favorite EHS memory?
My first Woodberry game. Becoming part of such a long-going
tradition was unspeakably cool.
What is the most important lesson you learned while at Episcopal?
That my actions reflect my community and vice versa. This
lesson is particularly important for me as a teacher at UNC, and it’s vital
that I lead by example – whether I’m on campus or in another country.
How did your EHS experience impact your life?
EHS was the perfect place to grow intellectually and
emotionally. I teach at thecollege level now, and I still use teaching methods
I observed (and learned) at Episcopal. I try to impress upon my students that
what they do matters, not just to me, but also to their classmates and
community. I was so surprised by how many freshmen undervalued their own voices
and am glad that I was always heard during my high school years.
Tell us something we probably don't know about you.
A frequently asked question is if it’s hard having one
degree from Duke and earning another from UNC. It isn’t – I root for Duke
unless my students are playing.
What's your philanthropic philosophy?
Every bit counts!
Why do you give to Episcopal?
I’m lucky to have learned about the importance of giving
from my grandparents and parents, who all support organizations and schools in
different ways. If Episcopal gave me a place to develop, push myself, make
mistakes, learn from my choices, and succeed, it stands to reason that EHS
would be my priority. My greatest decisions were informed by my experiences at
Episcopal – by the person I became at Episcopal – and for that I will always be
grateful.