From One Head of School to Another: “The future is bright”

Dear Derrick,

As you take the helm of Ravenscroft as the 15th Head of School, I wanted to share a few thoughts to help you get off to a great start! I am committed to your success and have no doubt you are prepared for this moment.

First of all, let me say that I believe that any transformation begins with trust. The Board of Trustees and I have trust in you. We know that trust is vital to our community and is never more important than when organizations deal with change. At Ravenscroft, we admire leaders who are honest, fair and forward-thinking. 

The Ravenscroft community is inspired by the belief that everyone can respond to and benefit from the opportunities the school provides — that everyone can be fulfilled by our robust mission in their own unique and meaningful ways. Robert Evans, author of “The Human Side of Change,” writes, “Leaders who are followed are authentic; that is, they are distinguished not by their techniques or styles but by their integrity and savvy.”  

What I have come to know about you is that you are authentic, and that authenticity will inspire trust and confidence. 

At right, Willard and Kelly walk together to the Olander Center for Student Life at the A.E. Finley Activity Center on Jan. 29, 2024, where they both address faculty and staff at their second-semester schoolwide meeting. This photo of their walk through the rose arbor recreates for Kelly a moment from the school’s 2003 leadership transition, when Kelly was the incoming head walking with then-interim Headmaster Ned Fox. See that image here. 

On a more practical level, I offer you a few points to help in your transition:

1. The Ravenscroft mission statement is, I believe, one of the most beautiful independent school mission statements in the country. It will challenge and compel you. The statement is a polarity, so keep the balance and leverage the upside of both our legacy and our future. 

2. As Mrs. Pugh will no doubt remind you, “It’s about the kids!” There is always joy to be found on this campus! Look for the joy; it will sustain you!

3. Some important traditions and gatherings I know you’ll thoroughly enjoy: 

   • First Day of School Flag-Raising, Senior Breakfast and Senior Parade

   • Soccer Invitational Tournament

   • All-School Gatherings

   • Veterans Day (thank you for your service!)

   • Lower School Grandparents and Special Friends Day

   • Hosting Special Olympics

   • Lifer Photo

   • Yellow Rose Ceremony during Commencement 

4. Kindergartners will tell you the truth. However, keep a mint handy before visiting them, especially after lunch. My years in the Lower School taught me that they will tell you if you have bad breath — but they will also hug your legs affectionately!

5. Enjoy the school song, “Behold Our Banner Waving Aloft.” Our talented colleagues in Fine Arts will help you learn it.

6. Find the chocolate! There are great spots for chocolate around campus, and Chris Kay is known to keep a good stash in the Head of School suite, too!

7. Lastly, find time to laugh when you can! This work can be consuming and stressful at times, so it’s good to find the humor amid the complexity.

I look forward to remaining part of the community and being an involved grandparent, and I have confidence that the future is bright for all of us. I am especially looking forward to supporting you going forward. I wish you and Jenny every success as you lead self, lead with others and change your world. Every Raven, Every Day!

Sincerely,

Doreen