Springer Memorial marks 61 years of girl power, resilience and excellence

Springer Memorial School marked its 61st anniversary on Wednesday, commemorating six decades of nurturing women of strength, purpose, and achievement. The celebration, themed ‘Steadfast and Motivated: Soaring to Success,’ highlighted the school’s enduring legacy in Barbados’ educational system. Founded on October 1, 1964, and named after trailblazing educator Florence Springer, the institution remains the sole secondary school in Barbados dedicated exclusively to the education and development of young women. Starting with just 300 students and 13 teachers, Springer has grown into a beacon of academic excellence, athletic prowess, and leadership, producing generations of influential women who have made their mark locally and globally. The Founders’ Day service featured distinguished alumni, including Assistant Commissioner of Police Sonia Boyce and guest speaker Dr. Nikita Maynard-Hinds, a medical doctor and motivational figure. Dr. Maynard-Hinds emphasized the school’s ethos, stating, ‘Springer women are steadfast because we come from a tradition of resilience. We are motivated because we know that when we put our minds to something, nothing can hold us back.’ Principal Sonja Goodridge linked the school’s resilience to its symbol, the eagle, saying, ‘The eagle teaches us to soar above every storm. At 61, we are more resilient, more purposeful, and more motivated than ever to achieve excellence.’ Over the years, Springer has won 16 national athletic championships and produced leaders in various fields, including politics, education, healthcare, and business. The school’s motto, ‘Members One of Another,’ continues to inspire unity and sisterhood. Dr. Maynard-Hinds concluded, ‘Springer Queens are living proof that with faith, resilience, and determination, there is no limit to what women can achieve.’