Officially Opening a New Year

Dana Hall’s 146th school year kicked off at Opening Convocation on Monday, August 31, where Head of School Katherine Bradley welcomed 439 students as well as faculty and staff to the 2026-27 year.

Bradley began with sharing about her summer retreat rafting and camping next to a stretch of the Salmon River in Idaho with 25 other heads of school. Despite some cold and rainy weather, she talked about the attitudes of her counterparts who refused to let an uncontrollable element like weather ruin their experience.

“As you begin this new year, I encourage you to use your own power to control the controllables and to be the sort of person who helps to create collective cheer,” Bradley said. “There is no one in this auditorium who does not have a key role in shaping their own experience and the experience of others, and I want to welcome you into joining in this great work.”

Pianist M. Glick ’27 played Mozart’s Sonata No. 11 in A Major before All-School Co-Presidents A. Che ’27 and A. Hassanein ’27 introduced this year’s student theme, B.L.O.O.M.: Belonging, Loyalty, Openness, Ownership and Making Connections.

“Dana gives us so many opportunities to grow, but a lot of that growth begins with really small choices,” Hassanein said. “Try the activity even if you’re not sure you’ll be good at it. Sit next to someone you don’t know. Ask the question you have in mind because chances are, someone else is wondering the same thing. New experiences often begin with a little uncertainty, but taking that first step might lead you to a new passion, a new friendship or even a new side of yourself.”

Middle School Co-Presidents L. Brandt ’31 and D. Osorio ’31 also spoke along with L. Collins ’27, who shared about her summer volunteer experience. Convocation wrapped up with a singing of the Alma Mater before students headed off to their first day of classes.