Perspective from the Headmaster Careers of the Future

Crescent’s alumni are leading in professions that didn’t exist 20, 10 and even five years ago. The world is increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. As a school, it is our job to predict what the future holds and prepare our boys for work and life accordingly. Our focus on 12 essential character qualities, such as collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking, is one way we do this; offering a future-ready curriculum is another.

In this issue, we highlight alumni working in artificial intelligence (AI). Until recently, AI was a concept more likely associated with sci-fi movies than a career direction. And yet, we use it when unlocking our phones with our faces, helping us decide what to watch or listen to on streaming services, and interacting with merchant websites. And while these applications make our lives easier, AI is not without challenges. Schools are wrestling with processing tools like ChatGPT, while big tech and governments are worried about video and audio “deepfakes.” Our feature article profiles five Crescent alum who are revolutionizing their industries— and our world—with the assistance of AI while navigating some of the ethical issues that abound.

As you enjoy this issue of Past & Present, another school year has come to a successful close. The 2022–2023 school year was gloriously “normal” after three years of upheaval brought on by the pandemic. In-person instruction, co-curricular activities, international travel, and more returned with much excitement. The campus has never felt more vibrant.

Our alumni engagement also experienced a return to normalcy. Numerous alumni made special classroom appearances to share their journeys and expertise. We reconnected with alum at branch receptions across the globe and welcomed hundreds back on campus in June for the reunions. You don’t need artificial intelligence to know that the Crescent Brotherhood is alive and well. Enjoy your summer.

Michael Fellin P’24 Headmaster