JANUARY 23, 2024

With the sharp clap of a gavel on the podium, Lydia Fenet, author and professional auctioneer, called the attention of everyone at a Middle School assembly in January. She began by sharing a few life lessons, recalling her first internship at Christie’s, where she remained for 24 years. Ms. Fenet emphasized the value of a strong work ethic, taking advantage of public speaking practice, and the power of saying ‘yes’ to opportunities in your life. Ms. Fenet then hosted a Mock Nightingale Live Auction, where students pretended to bid on Taylor Swift Eras Tour backstage passes.

Ms. Fenet, The Most Powerful Woman in the Room is You author, then answered questions from Middle School Co-presidents Ryan A. ’28 and Beatrice K. ’28. Ms. Fenet shared how she found her purpose, if there were ever times where she questioned what she was doing in her career, valuable soft skills (specifically, networking), how to avoid the expectation of perfection, and more.