REMARKS FROM GEORGIA S. ZAISER

HEAD START

Graduation Ceremony Remarks from Head of School Georgia S. Zaiser

“While this year looked different, what matters most is the bond and the togetherness we have as we gather today. Today we honor our graduates in this milestone that marks the gateway to young adulthood. Facing the enormous uncertainties and disruptions brought on by the pandemic, the Class of 2021 responded with remarkable determination, passion, and resilience.

“I stand here so very proud of our community. Teachers—you are incredible educators—with unwavering dedication and compassion. Parents, grandparents, and friends, your support system provided a safety net for our graduates that is crucial in times of uncertainty. Graduates, I am thrilled to see you here on the stage today, crossing over the bridge for the very last time. You are ready. We are proud.

“Today, I am honored to share some thoughts with you.

“Last week, while surfing the alumni page of my high school, I learned that one of my favorite teachers, Mr. Kelly, passed away. I wish he knew how much he impacted my life as an educator. I felt it fitting to share this memory today, so his impact lives on through my words.

“I vividly recall my AP French class, as languages didn’t come easy for me. My spoken French, at the time, was tarnished by a wicked Long Island accent. I struggled in class but wanted to succeed. Mr. Kelly made learning fun. He stood on desks, sang songs, and truly showed he cared by meeting with students regularly and pushing us to be our best both in and out of the classroom.

“As a senior in high school, I made a poor decision and decided to ‘cut’ class and head to the beach for the day. This was out of character for me, and I recall how disappointed he was with my behavior when he learned about my misstep. Mr. Kelly was my advisor, so he had to notify my parents. As you can imagine, this news didn’t go over well at home. At the time, I was upset and embarrassed. I wanted to put it behind me—rather quickly. Alas, that didn’t happen, and we revisited the incident as I sat in the Assistant Principal’s office with Mr. Kelly. I heard a standard 1980s lecture on behavior which, of course, regaled all the amazing things my three siblings had done—it isn’t easy being the youngest of four!

“Fast forward to present day. I will tell you, I learned from this mistake and understood that I had broken Mr. Kelly’s trust and lowered my standards to be ‘one of the crowd.’ Knowing I disappointed someone who believed in me was tough to handle. “As I reflect on that difficult conversation today, I recall the emphasis on character. Mr. Kelly always asked, ‘What kind of person do you want to be when you grow up?’ Not, ‘What career do you want to pursue?’ I found his focus rather interesting, as I often heard my siblings and parents say, ‘What do you want to be when you grow up, Georgia?’ I can tell you now that most people don’t know what they want to be as an adult until they are well beyond their high school and even college years. I wanted to work in radio, and here I stand as a Head of School. Light years away from hosting a radio show!

“So, you never know where your life will take you and what life will throw at you. This year delivered that message loud and clear to all of us in this room. No matter what, focusing on what kind of person you want to be: kind, caring, compassionate, even driven, will help you determine your path. I encourage you to try new things in high school. Listen and learn from your mistakes. Life is about those teachable moments and what you do with the knowledge you gain. Take risks, stay focused but always be a good person.

“The opportunity in front of you is great, and the support and care you received from Far Hills is like no other. Far Hills is all of us. And when I think about this, I feel hopeful. I feel hopeful that our graduates, as a rising generation, will move forward with empathy, love, and kindness. Using the foundation of the five pillars to strengthen your resolve no matter what comes your way.

“Congratulations, Class of 2021! You have grown exponentially during your years here, and I look forward to learning about how you will build on your Far Hills experience in high school and the years to come. Stay in touch, come back often, and remember you will always be a Falcon!”

Georgia S. Zaiser Head of School