News Summary
Gwyneth Parks has been honored as the May Queen during the 111th May Day celebration at Girls Preparatory School. The award is given to a student who exemplifies graciousness and camaraderie among peers. Despite rainy weather, Parks and her Maid of Honor, Ella Beth Wiedmer, stood with their classmates, reflecting the strong community spirit at GPS. Parks plans to study biochemistry and history at Washington and Lee University after demonstrating notable leadership and engagement in school activities, including mock trial and Student Council.
Chattanooga, TN
Gwyneth Parks has been crowned the May Queen at Girls Preparatory School (GPS) during the school’s 111th May Day celebration on May 1, 2025. The award is traditionally bestowed upon a student who embodies qualities such as graciousness, friendliness, loyalty, and service. Parks expressed her gratitude for the honor, emphasizing a focus on her classmates rather than her own recognition.
Parks, a student at GPS since sixth grade after transferring from Fairyland Elementary, has fostered strong relationships within her class, consisting of 72 students. This camaraderie was particularly evident during the voting and announcement process for the May Queen, where the students rallied together despite the challenges posed by the dreary weather on the day of the celebration.
The May Day event faced persistent rain, which did not deter the spirit of the occasion. Parks and her Maid of Honor, Ella Beth Wiedmer, chose to stand amongst their classmates in the rain instead of seeking shelter under a tent, demonstrating their commitment to making the experience memorable for everyone involved. Parks reflected on her feelings of nervousness during the procession but felt immensely honored by the support from her peers.
Academically, Parks has pursued a diverse range of interests, particularly in science and history. She intends to further her education by studying biochemistry and history at Washington and Lee University. Her academic journey has been marked by notable participation in various activities, including being a member of the GPS mock trial team, which reached the state regional finals. Additionally, she has engaged in extracurricular activities such as Student Council and the pep band, serving as the drum major for the combination GPS/McCallie Pep Band.
The motivation behind Parks’ interest in biochemistry stemmed from a school trip to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta during the pandemic. Moreover, she credits her Advanced Placement U.S. history teacher, Callie Hamilton, for sparking her passion for American history, which has influenced her academic trajectory.
The May Court for 2025 included other distinguished students: Maid of Honor Ella Beth Wiedmer; Crown Bearer Anika Elia Bhushan; Scepter Bearer Caroline Baker Grant; and Trainbearers Sadie Camille Buhrman and Eliana Noelle Tabibiazar. This year’s May Day celebration continues a long-standing tradition at GPS, which has occurred annually since 1914 and highlights the importance of character and school involvement in the selection of the May Queen and court.
Throughout her time at GPS, Parks has displayed a humble demeanor, reinforcing the significance of unity and support among her classmates. Her engagement in a wide range of interests, alongside her leadership roles, represents the values promoted by Girls Preparatory School.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: May Day at GPS
- Wikipedia: May Queen
- Chattanoogan: GPS May Queen Claire
- Google Search: Girls Preparatory School Chattanooga
- Companion Funerals: Dee Kessel Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: May Day
- Times Free Press: May Day Celebration Gallery
- Google News: May Day celebration
