News Bites

A RESILIENT SPIRIT

FFor a decade, I have watched strength, flexibility, and resilience in action. Bullis has evolved through adversity as well as success. When I first arrived, following economic challenges throughout the country, Bullis was ready for growth. We have expanded programs, enrollment, the campus, and our community, earning a reputation as one of the finest schools in the region. Within the macrocosm of independent schools, Bullis is a perfect microcosm of surviving and thriving no matter the situation. That is resilience.

Part of that is heart and spirit, qualities this community has in abundance. In 2011, I remember the last football game of the year vs. Episcopal High School, when we filled the stands for an exciting game. Bullis students spontaneously stood and sang the Alma Mater—I have never seen anything quite like it elsewhere. Their camaraderie, loyalty, and joy that day perfectly expressed what makes Bullis extraordinary. Lately we have found ways to celebrate and carry on traditions despite unexpected hurdles. Bullis will be here for a long time—this school knows how to change and transform when needed. Once a small postgraduate program, it has expanded, but its culture of caring and resilience remain the soul of this school.

These past months, Bullis has not been in crisis. Our community simply circles the wagons to take care of our own, protecting what’s in the middle: the school and its students. Even with change, the strong chain of this community will never break.

As I leave here, I know Bullis will be in the capable hands of its new Head of School. I know Bullis is steadfast, always growing and changing for the better. I have had the pleasure and privilege of leading this great School for 10 wonderful years, and I thank you.