School Year Abroad (SYA) is proud to announce that Sarinda Parsons Wilson FR’83 FR’13P, a dedicated French Instructor and SYA Coordinator at The Hotchkiss School, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Stephen M. Foster ES'65 Exemplary Service Award. This prestigious award is presented to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and exemplary service to SYA. She attended SYA as a senior from Bishop Stang High School in Massachusetts.

Sarinda’s connection to SYA runs deep, having first experienced the program as a student in Rennes, France. Her daughter, Maren, followed in her mother’s French footsteps through her own journey with SYA when she became a student in the 2012-2013 academic year. Sarinda’s passion for French language and culture has been a driving force throughout her career, inspiring countless students to embark on their own SYA journeys. "Sarinda Wilson lives and breathes the spirit of SYA," says Laurence Webber FR’16, who worked with Sarinda during his tenure as a member of SYA’s admissions team. "Her dedication and care go beyond kindness; she treats those around her like family."

Over the years, Sarinda has played a pivotal role in fostering a strong relationship between Hotchkiss and SYA. She is known for her unwavering support of students before, during and after their time abroad. Rebekah Oppenheimer FR'23 reflects on her experience with Sarinda: "Madame Wilson made the idea of studying abroad real for me. She piqued my interest, assuaged my fears and remained a pillar of support throughout the entire process. Her impact on the Hotchkiss community and beyond is immeasurable."

Sarinda's influence extends far beyond the classroom. Her efforts to promote SYA have resulted in a significant increase in Hotchkiss students applying to the program each year. Laurence credits her for the strong relationship SYA now enjoys with Hotchkiss, stating, "Sarinda is more or less single-handedly responsible for the tremendous relationship we have with Hotchkiss now. Her dedication to keeping in touch with students while they are abroad and ensuring their continued connection to SYA is truly remarkable."

Sarinda's commitment to second language proficiency, cultural exchange and inspiring academic excellence is evident in everything she does. "Madame Wilson's passion for French and cultural exchange is contagious," says another former student. "Her energy and enthusiasm in the classroom have instilled a greater appreciation of SYA values throughout the Hotchkiss community."

In addition to her work as a French Instructor and SYA Coordinator, Sarinda is also known for her personal touch. She often sends handwritten letters and care packages to students abroad, ensuring they feel supported and connected to home. Her kindness and empathy have left a lasting impression on everyone who has had the privilege of knowing her.

SYA is honored to recognize Sarinda Parsons Wilson FR’83 FR’13P for her decades of unwavering commitment to the organization and her profound impact on generations of students. Her dedication to fostering a love of language, culture and global understanding exemplifies the values of SYA and makes her a truly deserving recipient of The Stephen M. Foster ES'65 Exemplary Service Award.