Ms. Michaela Chipman, English Faculty and current Dorm Head of Howe Hall,  never loses her beautiful smile and brighten everyone’s day. After spending six years with unforgettable memories at Loomis Chaffee, she departs to embark on a new chapter of her life. 

Ms. Chipman talks about her experiences here at Loomis. “Before I came [to Loomis] as a teacher, I came right from [being an] undergraduate student and I did a summer here for the intern in the summer program.” 

She quickly learned the ways around teaching at Loomis and was inspired by numerous talented colleagues surrounding her. “I was the beneficiary of a great deal of mentorship by my colleagues and the English department.” Ms. Chipman shared.

As Ms. Chipman observes the pedagogy of her fellow faculty members, she continuously adapts her own teaching style as well as furthering her own interests by developing new curriculums and initiatives.

She goes on to elaborate, “I would describe myself as a relational teacher. I really appreciate the relationships I have with students in the way that it allows us to have a high caliber [and] meaningful discussion.” 

Ms. Chipman’s passion for her job permeates every corner of the Island. “I loved being a dorm head and living with the upperclassmen girls. [As well as] the Chaffee Leadership Institute, being able to spend time with those girls has been gratifying and my time in the dean’s office this past winter, ” Ms. Chipman reminisces on her favorite memories as she reflects back to her seven years at Loomis.

She emphasises “healthy relationships” as a part of her new initiatives, hoping to spark students’ acknowledgement in these important topics that are seldom discussed.

Yichen Liu ’28, a student in Ms. Chipman’s seminar class provides a detailed insight in the way she makes students feel and think. “Even though it is a seminar, she still encourages us to go deeper in learning and [fosters] an inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy.” 

Ms. Chipman’s warmth invites students to participate in discussions, allowing them to openly express themselves and contribute their ideas. Her classroom environment stresses the concept of belonging and inclusion. “When she sees someone who is not joined in, she would go and ask, and check to bring them into the conversation,” comments Liu.

Ms Chipman’s impact is felt across the entire student body, not only as a remarkable teacher, but also as an amiable dorm head. 

Sydney Hallowell ’25, a Residential Assistant in Howe Hall, emphasises “She has been an incredible resource, she is just such a special presence in our dorm [as] she makes everyone feel welcome and [shows the importance] of community.” 

In Hallowell’s words, “Mrs. Chipman is caring, kind, and bubbly.”

“I will miss sharing my life with such imaginative, creative, vivid people. Without them there is no me. I would encourage [my students]  to keep reading, keep writing and most importantly,  keep talking to people who disagree with them” Ms. Chipman fondly recalls