3 minute read
Head of School Message
Dear Members of the Country Day Community,
In many ways, it has been a year of transition – a new head of school, a beautiful new athletic facility, a new academic schedule, and our emergence from a constant state of pandemic emergency.
We’ve come a long way, but we aren’t “back to normal” – we are pushing forward. One way that is evident is with the unveiling of Country Day’s new mission statement that the board of trustees adoptedlast summer: creating leaders who, through the discovery of their own abilities, kindle the potential of others and better a dynamic world.
We have been quietly living our new mission all year to ensure it serves its purpose as a call to action rather than mere words on a page. And while we have plenty of exciting opportunities to grow this mission in the future, we can already see that it is authentically embedded within our community. Th e pages of this magazine show several examples of leadership, self-discovery, collaboration, and service to the world that our mission calls upon us to provide:
Leadership p– readhow CCDX Weeklet Country Day students lead cutting-edge, experientiallearning projects; or how Zach Corbin’s steadying leadership helped the student body thrive during a time of great tumult; or how Country Day became a leader in early childhood education when Helen Asbury founded Children’s Corner in 1984.
Self-discovery y – read how Jade Abu Bakr ’22 pushed beyond her comfort zone and discovered leadership skills she never knew she had; or how Cole Harten ’22 discovered his manifold talents for science and technology and humor on his way to Harvard; or how Shane Jones ’22 grew into the best version of himself as a scholar, athlete, artist, and fi sherman.
Collaboration – read how educators Emily DiMatteo, Rhoda Weston, Amy Thonnerieux, and Tom Powers kindle thepotential of students in classrooms, libraries, practice fi elds, andbeyond; or how International Night brought together our community in celebration of our rich diversity of cultures.
Service to the world – read how Madeleine Morales ’18 fi ghts for menstrual justice and human rights; or how Michael Strauss ’90 works with d the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to help provide economic support for countries transitioning to democracy and market economies; or how Country Day’s long-standing partnership with Breakthrough Cincinnati expands educational opportunities for under-resourced communities and serves as an engine of social mobility.
Of course, our work is not done. Next year we will develop a new strategic plan that will build on our mission and sharpen our strategic identity to lay the foundationfor a second century of excellence at Country Day. Andbefore youknow it, our centennial celebration in 2026 willbe here.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy the stories in this edition of Connections, but don’t get too comfortable – we’re always moving forward at Country Day!
Sincerely,
Rob b Zimmerma m n n ‘98 H Head a of f Sch hool l
SCAN HERE TO WATCH A VIDEO ABOUT OUR NEW MISSION STATEMENT
On February 26, the Country Day community gathered at TQL Stadium for CountryDate 2022.
It was a wonderful night, marked by theatrical spectacles and the chattering and laughter of over 300 guests, reveling in the chance to reconnect. In addition to those present, almost 200 more participated virtually through the online games and silent auction. We substantially exceeded our fundraising goal, raising over $200,000. Thank you to everyone who supported CountryDate 2022!
