From the Headmaster
In my 39 wonderful years at Gilman, I have been so blessed in so many ways. I have been present to witness some of the great events in Gilman’s history, and, of course, much of who I am stems directly from the influence and teaching of the men and women of Gilman. I learned at the feet of masters, and I also had the privilege of working side by side with many of them. Gilman is a great school, but it is not the excellence of the academics, athletics, arts or facilities that makes it that way. The students, teachers, alumni, staff, trustees and families create this special place, and they make it so difficult for me to leave. Each day I witnessed so many inspiring unselfish acts: Whether it was a teacher putting an arm around a tearful child, coming in early to help a student prepare for a test or quiz or attending a student’s little league game, time and time again I saw our faculty go out of their way to support their students. I saw staff members stay late to make sure that things were set up for the next event, cleaned thoroughly and ready to go. I watched crews tend our grounds immaculately, apply fresh coats of paint and line fields — all done with incredible pride and all done for the boys. I saw parents give up hours of their own time to help inside and outside the classroom, and I watched alumni and trustees do all that they could to support and further the Gilman mission. But most of all I watched the boys, and what a pleasure that was. I saw such genuine goodness demonstrated over and over again in so many ways. Inevitably, there were rascals who acted impulsively, but I saw them learn from their mistakes and share
their knowledge with their peers. I watched boys support each other at the most difficult times, had fun with them as they came up with great ways to promote spirit, and learned from them as they shared their perspectives with me. And all the while, the Gilman Five — Honor, Integrity, Respect, Humility and Excellence — thrived in this community, as I know it always will. It has been a great ride, but now it is time to hand over the reins. The School is in great shape, and it will become even better under Henry’s leadership. My wife Janet and I thank all of you for reaching out and supporting us six years ago when this Headmaster journey began, and I know that you will give that same support to Henry Smyth and his lovely wife Elizabeth. I could not be happier for Gilman, and I look forward to watching the School grow and prosper under his leadership. I know that the support he will receive from this community — faculty, staff, students, parents, trustees and alumni — will provide ballast to his efforts. I shall miss Gilman and all of you more than you will ever know. Keep the Five alive! Go Hounds! With deepest gratitude and affection,
summer 2013
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7/23/13 5:47 PM