Seeing the Possible

of who he is, and is ever present in his use of metaphor,” explains former Director of Integrated Outreach Kris Light, adding that the language of “Our Watershed Moment,” the seminal capital campaign that Gemmell launched, was certainly a product of this devoted naturalist’s worldview.

Though a science scholar by training, Gemmell also brought his love of literature to his role, often quoting notable scholars, from authors Wendell Berry and C.S. Lewis to contemporary poet Billy Collins and fellow head of school Albus Dumbledore. Not one to keep his door shut, Gemmell’s accessibility was (and is) his trademark. He famously gave out his cell phone number to the assembled group of parents at Orientation each year and said, sincerely, “Text or call at any time.” (This was a move his early colleagues admit they deemed “completely nuts,” until they witnessed the bonds that it built.) He made sure students knew that door was open to them, as well, and they took him up on the invitation, often stopping in for free-flowing conversation and just to check in. These seemingly small gestures and practices only bolstered what his new community of students, families, employees, alumni, and donors came to know of Gemmell’s warm charm, crisp humor, and

“Craig has an uncanny knack for seeing the possible in all things, and through his own energetic pursuit of aspirational goals, he inspires others to follow. Whether that means convincing colleagues to join impossible running challenges or setting timelines for projects that feel out of reach, his conviction and eagerness make everyone believe in the success of the endeavor—and that belief generally wins the day. Though at times I think his goals made even him nervous, he wasn’t afraid to go out on a limb for initiatives he cared about and believed were best and right for Brewster.”

—Kristy Kerin, Brewster Academy Head of School