Head of School Caroline Erisman welcomed the community and shared several ideas and goals for the coming year. “While it is a good thing to plan your life year by year, please understand that generally these plans will change, that life will get in the way and take you in different directions—and that these digressions and changes in direction will make you a better person and, indeed, define who you are,” she told the assembled group.  “I have learned that seeking new opportunities and keeping an open mind are critical to a rich and varied life.”

After a musical performance from M. Lee ’10 and greetings from All School Co-Presidents H. Hoar ’09 and C. Taylor ’09 and Middle School Co-Presidents E. Fiskio ’13 and M. Hoar ’13, Director of Choral Music David Coleman introduced the 2008 Dana Hall Convocation Song, an original composition he entitled Hey! “Today is our convocation/It’s a time for celebration/So let’s sing with dedication/We’re the heart of the Dana Nation,” echoed from the Shipley Center gymnasium. Co-Director of College Counseling Jacquie Serafino shared closing remarks, and encouraged students and faculty to stay present in their surroundings.

Beginning on Thursday, September 4, all classes will participate in class retreats, both on campus and at off-site locations. Students in the Middle School will be involved in a variety of activities to that focus on areas of trust, communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution. The Class of 2012 will spend time on-campus learning about different aspects of the Upper School and then take the Commuter Rail into Boston, as well as participate in team building and problem solving activities at the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA Outdoor Center. The Class of 2011 will engage in hands-on community service learning projects, group discussion, and interactive workshops surrounding social justice issues like homelessness and poverty. The Class of 2010 will head to Maine for a rafting trip organized through North American Whitewater Expeditions, Inc. The Class of 2009 will stay on campus and prepare for the college application process as well as for senior traditions.