“It’s snowing!” Few phrases capture the joy of childhood more perfectly. Now, imagine hearing those same words, not as a lifelong New Englander like me, but as a boarding student from Liberia experiencing winter for the very first time. Double the magic, double the wonder. As the season’s first snowfall arrived on the day we returned from Thanksgiving break, I was reminded once again of how extraordinary it is that Fay is home to students from 25 different countries, many of whom are enjoying a host of new adventures here.

 

And lucky me, to enjoy reciprocal adventures. One week after that magical snowfall, I was packing my bags for Beijing and Bangkok to meet with Fay families and alumni. (Planning for 30°F weather in one city and 90°F in the other was its own adventure!) Whenever I am off campus while school is in session, I feel like my heart is in two places. Before I departed, I shared with students at Morning Meeting why I travel on behalf of Fay: to strengthen relationships, to broaden my perspective, and to deepen my understanding of the cultures our students bring to this community.

 

Wherever I go, I try to immerse myself, visiting historical sites, sampling local cuisine, enjoying the music, asking questions, and learning as much as I can. Time and again, I found that values I hold dear are shared by people I meet the world over. Academic excellence, earnest effort, honorable conduct, dedicated service, and wellness of mind, body and spirit are deeply resonant for families everywhere who want to instill these qualities in their children. While abroad, I meet with current and former parents, alumni, and families considering Fay for their children. I also visit local schools when I can. This year I visited the American School Foundation in Mexico City, Edgeborough School in Surrey, and International School Beijing—three very different educational environments united in their commitment, like Fay, to provide mission-driven education. Each visit brings me closer to understanding the unique childhood experiences of our students.

 

We are a multicultural community. It is my absolute favorite thing about Fay. I love our diversity and believe it is our greatest strength. It holds a truth as old as the phrase itself: out of many, one. Or as beloved Fay Latin teacher Mr. Blanchard would prompt me: e pluribus unum. We are united in our shared belief in the value and power of a Fay education. This understanding enriches my appreciation of our community and helps me strengthen the relationships I build with students and their families, near and far.

 

Mortimer and I will continue to travel on behalf of Fay, though the best part will always be coming home, with new friendships forged and memories made, back to 48 Main Street. And when I watch a new student revel in the joy of their first snowfall, I’ll feel that joy right alongside them, remembering the firsts I’ve shared with Fay community members all over the world.