Faculty Tribute - Enithie Hunter

My first time meeting Ms. Hunter was in my III Form fall, but I can still clearly recall the details that were telling about her personality. Her headwrap and elegant flared dress were symbols of her eccentric yet deeply-rooted mind.  She knows what she likes and refuses to cave to modern trends unless they truly suit her. When she began the class by sharing openly about her family, lifestyle, and extensive career in teaching, it became clear to me that she was always communicative and happy to answer questions. She then transitioned to her plans and expectations for the term, because although she enjoys being lighthearted, she is serious about her role as a teacher and expects each of her students to excel. Over the course of the term, I was captivated by the texts she introduced us to, which brought me and my classmates closer together. Although no longer my teacher, I have stayed connected with Ms. Hunter, who is always open to giving feedback on my poetry, giving me tips for the English APs, answering questions about Scholastic Arts & Writing Competition submissions, or just hosting me in consultation for casual conversation. I would talk with her about managing our hair, about the neighborhoods where we grew up, or about surprisingly similar challenges we had in our early schooling. Once, I got so caught up in speaking with her after a class that I accidentally skipped the entirety of the School Meeting and needed to have the absence excused. Over time, I’ve realized that there is something special about how unflinchingly real Ms. Hunter is. She is a firm believer in open discussion no matter the circumstances—even when conversation is awkward and uncomfortable, though oftentimes her ideas will bring thought-provoking discussion that reanimates the entire class. At times when I felt insecure about standing out on campus, Ms. Hunter went out of her way to share resources with me and make sure that at least in her classroom, I always felt welcome. Her character is such that any effort in keeping in contact with her will not go unappreciated, and if you reach out to her she will provide unwavering support for you and your ambitions—as a mentor as well as a teacher. Ms. Hunter has helped me believe in myself as a writer, and I hope that her insights from a life spent in keen observation of the world around her will continue to be shared.