A Letter from Rebecca

Dear Friends,

As you will read in this first issue of the new school year, autumn is off to a great start on 16th Street. In this issue, you will read about topics ranging from a new Grade 9 course requirement on Quaker values and practices to the launch of more than 40 clubs in Upper School.

The newly appointed Interim Head of School, Rich Nourie, has been given a warm welcome. Rich brings the wisdom of more than 40 years of Quaker educational experience and deep expertise in child and adult cognitive development. 

On September 17, parents had one of their first opportunities to meet Rich at an informal talk in the Lower School Cafeteria. In his remarks, Rich recognized the impact of Bo Lauder’s leadership, shared his priorities for ensuring students have the best experiences possible, and expressed his commitment to re-engaging the community in Quaker practices. Dedicated to ensuring a smooth leadership transition, Rich described how he is working with incoming Head of School, Chris Singler, with whom he has worked closely over the years.

During his talk, Rich also shared something that I am eager to pass along. He cited the work of Harvard art history professor Jennifer Roberts, who set the Three Hour Art Challenge, as a way to slow down and focus the mind. Jennifer invites her students to observe a work of art for three hours as an opportunity to engage in deceleration, patience, and immersive attention. As someone who would do well to slow down, I am intrigued by this challenge and share it with you as a fellow member of the Friends community. 

Reader, I am curious to know if you have taken up this challenge or if you might consider it. Let me know your thoughts! Meanwhile, happy reading, and thank you for your continued interest in and support of Friends.

In friendship,

Rebecca Holmes

Senior Associate Director of Institutional Advancement