Emily McKay ’26 has been skating for as long as she can remember. What began as group lessons at age four turned into solo training and competitions after a coach recognized her potential. “I started competing shortly after,” Emily says. “I’ve been doing it ever since.”

Today, Emily is co-captain of Team USA’s Theatre on Ice —a unique figure skating discipline that combines the athleticism of figure skating with the storytelling of theatre. Theatre on Ice is popular in Europe, where it's known as ballet on ice. “It’s mostly trying to convey a story through the skating,” she explains. “It does have elements of jumping and spinning, but most of it’s trying to express something through the motions of skating, dance, and acting.”

As co-captain, Emily’s role goes beyond performance. She helps run practices, supports younger teammates, and offers guidance when things get difficult. “Most of the skaters are either eighth grade or ninth grade—they can be shy,” she says. “Being able to connect with them and be like, ‘Hey, I’m not just your captain—I’m also your friend,’ helps them feel more comfortable, especially when asking questions to the coach.”

Between practices, weekend rehearsals, and international competitions, Emily manages a demanding academic schedule that includes several honors and advanced classes at Shipley. “It’s definitely a lot,” she says. “My rink is about 40 minutes away, so between travel and schoolwork, time can get tight. But Shipley has been really supportive. My teachers understand how much time I put into skating. If I have a competition and need more time on something, they’ll work with me.”

Her teachers and advisors also take a genuine interest in her life beyond the classroom. “They’ll ask how a performance went or which competition is next,” she says. “It makes me feel like they see me as more than just a student.” That balance—between excellence and understanding—is what Emily values most about Shipley.

Emily’s approach to leadership reflects that same care and connection. “I don’t want to be the type of leader who just gives orders,” she says. “I want to be someone who supports others and makes them feel confident.”

With focus, kindness, and quiet confidence, Emily embodies what it means to lead with courage and grace—on the ice and at Shipley.

Photos by Janet Diane Photography