Q&A

Q&Q With Board of Trustees President Mike Cummings and Head of School Dave Farace '87

As you reflect on the school year, what makes you most proud?

[DAVE] This was an incredibly productive year for our community. We celebrated our 150th Anniversary, completed the largest philanthropic campaign in School history, and developed a draft of a comprehensive academic strategic plan (which will be finalized in the coming school year). We also welcomed the Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools (AIMS) accreditation team to campus for a multi-day visit and were reaccredited for the next 10 years. In their summary report, the AIMS team noted the following:

The centrality of “joy in work and play” is evident across campus. McDonogh has a longstanding reputation for innovation. LifeReady focuses on developing self-reliant, critical thinkers prepared to do good in a diverse and ever-changing world. And with its Freedom of Expression and Civil Discourse statement, McDonogh has taken a national lead in creating a policy that articulates the democratic necessity of exposure to diverse viewpoints.

I’m also proud of our Seminar for Transformational Leadership. Under the tutelage of Director of LifeReady Dr. Kevin Costa, the 10-month course of study is designed for early- to mid-career faculty and staff. This type of high-quality professional development is crucial to our future success and differentiates McDonogh at a national level

As Dave noted, this was a big year for McDonogh; we celebrated our 150th Anniversary and closed a historic capital campaign, surpassing our $90 million goal by raising $96.6 million! How do these two pivotal moments help illustrate the strength of our School community?

[MIKE] It is not a coincidence that McDonogh celebrated its 150th Anniversary the same year the largest campaign in the history of the School closed. McDonogh has been in existence for 150 years because of the generous philanthropic giving of former and current members of the School community. It is this philanthropic spirit — the commitment to do the greatest possible amount of good — at the core of our McDonogh culture that inspires community members to provide the financial support necessary for future generations to benefit from the McDonogh experience.

Eagle Day, a new tradition, was a big hit with the students. What is your impression of the day?

[DAVE] As a school that finds “joy in work and play,” Eagle Day exemplified our community spirit and energy. I was particularly pleased that the seniors embraced the sense of play and were so encouraging to our younger students. This new tradition is definitely a keeper!

This edition of McDonogh Magazine focuses on everyday joy. What’s something in your daily routine that brings you joy?

[MIKE] Most weekday mornings I am up by 5:15 a.m. and headed to the gym in our basement or to a hotel gym if I am traveling for work. I purposefully do not bring my phone or access my laptop. I find solitude in the quiet of the early morning when my mind is free to think — not react in the moment to whatever chaos is reigning down. Rather, I can thoughtfully and contemplatively explore questions or problems that are top of mind. In a world where everything now seems to happen at hyperspeed, the early morning silence (broken only by my labored breathing) is an opportunity to use my brain more, my mouth less, and in the process formulate thoughts reflective of careful consideration and not spontaneous reaction.

Being a Head of School is hard work! What’s something in your daily routine that brings you joy?

[DAVE] I like to get to work a little earlier than most. The walk from my car to the front of Allan Building is a special ritual for me. The campus is serene, and as an alum, it is my daily moment to offer thanks for my student experience and the opportunity to lead McDonogh.

I also love watching students play pickleball outside my office. Their skill level has improved dramatically over the year!

Finally, I love eating lunch in Paterakis Dining Hall. It’s one of the most joyful hours on campus as students, faculty, and staff come together for food and fellowship. I think we have the best salad bar in town!

What have you been reading this summer?

[MIKE] I just finished reading “No Heart to Kill,” the second book I have read by C.W. Wells (aka Charlie Britton, former McDonogh Headmaster). While I wait for his next book, I will enjoy finishing the Detective Josie Quinn series by Lisa Regan. My wife, Carol, got me started on this series last summer, and I am now on book #17 out of 20. My pleasure reading is sporadic so it may take me longer than the summer months to finish the series.

Team colors orange and black not only belong to McDonogh but also to our hometown O’s. Who’s your favorite player and why?

[DAVE] Gunnar! He is a dynamic and dominant player who competes every day with a sense of joy.

I also love that he was a three-sport athlete in high school and believes that exposure was critical to his development. I wish more high school athletes would follow suit and wait to specialize!