editor’s note
The LA Experience I attended an independent school conference recently at which one of the keynote speakers made several sobering points, substantiated by empirical as well as anecdotal evidence, about the future viability and sustainability of the traditional independent school model, given changing demographics and economic realities. Rising tuition rates, increased requests for financial aid by all economic classes, the rising cost of living, slower financial growth rates, and a tighter job market, combined with a dropping American birthrate, have created a scenario never Dave Casanave before experienced by independent schools. This scenario highlights the need to clearly define and articulate the uniqueness—the “value-added,” in business terms—of what it is we do. Never before in the history of private education has it been more necessary to clearly define who we are, what we do, and why what we do is especially good for students. In this edition of the Academy Journal, we celebrate those value-added elements of a Lawrence Academy education. They range from unique classes and outstanding sports and arts programs, to memorable learning experiences and unique mentoring opportunities. LA is truly the sum of its parts, much like the quilt on the cover of this edition of the Journal, which was stitched together by students in a Winterim this year. In addition to designing and sewing their own quilts, they each contributed one square to the larger quilt, which was auctioned off this past spring. The elements that make up an LA education are varied and individual, but they share a common purpose: to help young people discover and develop their individual talents, capabilities, and interests. The student profiles of Alex Vassilakos and Mike Lero, for instance, highlight how, through the theatre program and Winterim respectively, LA has helped them to define and gain confidence in who they are. The profile of alumnus Damon Corkin ’95 further amplifies how deeply students are influenced by their LA education. Damien writes, “I am frequently reminded that my experience at Lawrence Academy changed my life forever. I would not be running a travel company in Quito, Ecuador, if it weren’t for LA’s excellent and dedicated faculty …” Speaking of faculty, you’ll enjoy reading about Theatre Director Joel Sugerman and science teacher and coach Katie Quist. While these have very different stories to share, both speak to the strong threads of growth and expectation that stitch the many-colored pieces of the LA quilt firmly together. As you browse through the commencement pictures, read about the winter and spring sports seasons, peruse the Class Notes, and read the other articles in this edition of the Academy Journal, you’ll recognize familiar LA themes—LA as a place to be challenged both in the classroom and out; a place to try new activities; a place that gives students the skills to think for themselves; a place that actively supports one’s development as an individual; and a place that is rigorous and challenging, yet supportive and caring. The value-added isn’t hard to find or feel at LA. I hope that with each edition of the Journal and the Elm Tree, as well as the ongoing stories posted on the website (www.lacademy.edu), you’ll realize how each of us associated with LA—whether a student or faculty member, alum or friend—plays an important part in creating the rich, unique, vibrant quilt that is the LA experience. Enjoy this issue of the Academy Journal. If you have story ideas or comments, please email us at: dcasanave@lacademy.edu. – Dave Casanave, Director of Communications & Marketing
ACADEMY JOURNAL / FALL 2011
X 2
