Martine Fortune ’15
Currently Attending: Georgia Institute of Technology
Years at Shipley: 4

Activities, Positions, Awards: Varsity Cross Country, Varsity Girls’ Basketball, S.U.R.E. (Students United for Racial Equality); Spectrum/Shipley Gay Straight Alliance Co-Head, Girls’ Basketball Co-Captain; Merry Tropp Sportsmanship Award

Shipley’s the One
I remember the moment I knew I wanted to attend Shipley. I had been invited to Community Supper by Jordyn Turner ’12 to ascertain the “Shipley experience.” That night I met a lot of Shipley students, ones from the Middle, Lower, and Upper Schools. I had an opportunity to see the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams in action, and I got a feel for the sense of community. The atmosphere that night was amazing. Everyone was very friendly and my first experience in the Shipley Swamp was both hilarious and invigorating. I knew after that night that I wanted to be a part of such a warm and lively community.

A Place to Grow
Shipley was a place where I could grow emotionally and academically and where I could expand my understanding of people different from myself.

Preparation for the Future
I believe Shipley’s curriculum and staff did everything possible to prepare me for my academic future and for life beyond Shipley.

Most Influential Teacher
The teacher who most influenced me is Mrs. Sterling. She integrated herself into the community very well and immediately she was my go-to teacher. She is very warm and receptive; I could always count on her for a new perspective whenever I needed advice.

Working through Adversity to Leave a Legacy
My most memorable experience at Shipley is my last basketball season. As a team we faced a lot of adversity losing our head coach so soon before the season and having so many injuries throughout the season. We had a tough start and a lot of bumps along the way. I think I will carry that loss in the Friends Schools League final with me forever. However, we still ended the season on a tremendous note, when we won the third state title in School history. I am glad to leave that legacy and I’ll always carry that pride, I just wish our whole season could have reflected the wonderful end.

Plans for Fall 2015
My plan for the fall of 2014 is to attend Georgia Institute of Technology and begin a wonderful career with their women’s basketball program.

Future Ambition
My ambition is to work in marketing for a Fortune 500 company then eventually start a non-profit organization to benefit homeless LGBT+ youth.