Dana Hall began its 130th academic year on Tuesday, August 31 with registration and Opening Convocation. Students and faculty gathered in a steamy Bardwell Auditorium where Head of School Caroline Erisman welcomed new and returning members of the Dana Hall community.

Erisman shared a story with the students, and encouraged them to move toward their objectives and desires for the academic year one step at a time. “Work hard and be persistent in the pursuit of your goals,” Erisman offered.

All-School Co-Presidents W. Manly ’11 and T. Witter ’11, as well as Middle School Co-Presidents N. Panahi ’15 and E. Roberts ’15 also shared greetings. Manly and Witter

revealed the theme of the school year: “Be an ally, be more…” Every month Manly and Witter will change what comes after “be more” so that each month is met with a new challenge.  In September, they are asking students to be more welcoming.

Students and faculty sang the Opening Convocation song written by Choral Director David Coleman. After closing remarks by M. Lafferty ’11, the assembly came to a close with the Alma Mater. Students then headed to class meetings before ending the day with the first Step Sing of the year.

The school year begins with 489 students, 372 in the Upper School and 117 in the Middle School. Along with 229 day students, Dana’s six dormitories will be home to 143 boarding students. Girls represent 15 states, including California, Florida, Texas and Wyoming, and 16 countries, including Bermuda, Egypt, Indonesia and Thailand. Dana Hall continues to have a multicultural study body, with 15% international students and 17% women of color.

All students are participating in class retreats for the remainder of the week, and will set sail on the traditional Harbor Cruise on Monday, September 6.