Spotlight On: Martha McDonald, CCES Class of 2024

Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2024. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students! 

Martha McDonald ‘24 went into the college admissions process open-minded. She knew she wanted to go out of state but not too far, so schools in Virginia provided a plethora of options. Though she applied to multiple schools such as the University of Virginia and the University of Richmond, she immediately felt at home on the campus of Washington and Lee University. The tight-knit community, reminiscent of the one she cherishes at CCES, struck a chord; and conversations with current students and alumni further solidified her decision. Students and alumni alike loved the school – and in particular, one individual near and dear to Martha’s heart – her dad, Dr. Andrew McDonald ‘84. 

Though she certainly did not plan to follow in Andrew’s footsteps, she (and he) could not be more pleased with her decision. The school meets a variety of Martha’s desires, including the freedom to explore various majors until the second semester of her sophomore year. This opportunity to explore academically is especially valuable to Martha. 

At CCES, she has challenged herself by taking a wide variety of classes, including the highest-level class in each of the five core academic areas. She has accomplished this while maintaining one of the highest GPAs in the class. When asked to pick her favorite subject, she had trouble narrowing down her list. “I really like AP Biology this year with Ms. Unger, and I really enjoyed AP Environmental Science last year…and AP European History was really hard but very interesting too…” There is no doubt that she will enjoy the breadth of classes offered at Washington and Lee. 

In addition to her dad, Martha’s mom is another source of inspiration for her. Martha is described by  Associate Director of College Counseling, Bartley Sides, as a “a risk-taker who is willing to try new things.” When asked where this trait comes from, Martha did not hesitate with her response – “my mom.” 

Martha shared that her mother, Laura, has experienced a dynamic career journey, initially thriving as a lawyer for fifteen years before pivoting her focus to real estate. Despite this significant transition, Laura recently chose to recommit to her legal practice last year. Throughout these professional shifts, she gracefully juggled the responsibilities of raising three children – Martha, Mary ‘27, and John ‘29. 

Reflecting on her mother's resilience and unwavering support, Martha noted, "She does everything and has always been someone who is there for us. If she can do hard things, I can do hard things.” 

Martha’s athletic journey at CCES has reflected this belief. A competitive swimmer from 7th grade through 10th grade, she started to pursue running in her free time during her sophomore year. She found herself enjoying the challenge and wanting to improve. So much so that she considered making the switch to cross country during her junior year but hesitated at the prospect of upsetting her swim friends. She also worried the sudden switch might reflect poorly on her college applications. Despite all of these concerns, she realized, “a lot of the reasons not to make the switch were for other people. The reasons why I wanted to switch were for me.” 

At the end of the year, she decided to take the leap and join the cross country team. Though it was physically and mentally challenging at times, she has never once questioned her decision to take the risk. She has remained good friends with members of the swim team while making countless new ones through cross country. 

When she’s not running or hard at work studying, Martha can typically be found with her best friend, Lily Thomas ‘24. Both Martha and Lily have attended CCES for 13 years and started out their journeys together in the same primer class. Her fondest memory with Lily reflects Martha’s lightheartedness and sense of humor. “I remember one time in science class, we were making snowballs. Naturally, Lily threw some at me, knocking off my glasses, which then proceeded to be immediately stepped on by another student. We could not stop laughing.” 

Years later, they are still laughing together and even started their very own “Taylor Nation Club,” where members come together to listen to Taylor Swift songs, discuss the superstar’s latest developments, and most importantly – share desserts. She has also been a member of the Crochet Club, the Women’s Student Union, and the Running Club. 

Needless to say, Martha has taken full advantage of the opportunities available to her at CCES, and her journey epitomizes the importance of staying true to oneself while embracing new opportunities. As Martha embarks on this new chapter, she carries with her the lessons of resilience, authenticity, and friendship, poised to thrive in the vibrant community of Washington and Lee University.

Just for Fun: 

Top 3 bucket list travel destinations? Italy, Australia, and France 

Most recent book you’ve read? Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson 

Favorite coffee order?  Iced white chocolate mocha from Starbucks