Leadership Darlington was definitely a valuable experience. The program provided comprehensive information in a comfortable and collegiate atmosphere. I came away with a much better understanding of the opportunities that Darlington has to offer students, faculty, parents and the community.
The organization and execution of the program was superb, in my view. I enjoyed the fast pace, the articulate presenters and especially the student participation. The campus tour was very much appreciated by me since I graduated from Thornwood and never went to school on this campus. The effort to include Thornwood alumni was smart and will greatly benefit Darlington.
I was impressed that (Darlington's Head of School) Brent Bell remained present during almost the entire two-day program, despite the considerable demands of his job. His presence brought home the importance of the event. Brent’s explanation of Darlington’s objectives was organized, concise and jam-packed with valuable information. The objectives were clear and obviously encapsulated countless hours of thought and research. Brent gave encouraging responses to some important questions, particularly the question as to whether Darlington is a “Christian School." Brent responded that Darlington is a diverse school based upon Judeo-Christian values, and is a school that respects and encourages all cultures and religions. This was very refreshing. Brent’s combination of congeniality, knowledge and dedication is unique. It was great hearing from Brent.
Linda Owens ('79) did an excellent job of explaining the function and operation of the Board of Trustees. She explained the terms of service and efforts to get more diversity on the Board. She also commented on the importance of the Board’s dinner with the senior class, which I have attended in the past. Linda’s enthusiasm was infectious and encouraged the participants to serve.
The concepts in the pamphlet “Good to Great and the Social Sectors” were fascinating. Our break-out session moderator was John Wagshul, teacher and tennis coach. We discussed the leadership hierarchy in the book, including the importance of finding leaders who will enthusiastically give of their time, without compensation, and who have an ability to confront the brutal facts even if those are not the “preferred facts.” We discussed that Darlington can be promoted for its diversity of curricula, including the arts, athletics, and academics, as well as its focus on the individual student, community service, and honor society. We noted that Darlington strives to create well-rounded students who become confident contributors to society and remain connected to the school for life. The session elicited multiple viewpoints from the participants, focusing on what makes Darlington “the best in the world.” We discussed Darlington’s efforts to compete in an environment filled with other private schools. We discussed the sports academies, the learning center, the teacher-to-student ratio, and the fact that some faculty members can live on campus.
I have known Bill Smith ('72) since high school (although he was at Darlington and we were at Thornwood); we both graduated in the class of 1972. Bill is one of the nicest people you could ever meet. His dedication to service in every aspect of his life is instructive to all of us. His talk was easy and fun. A person like Bill doesn't have to recite statistics, his presence was enough to inspire.
These sessions brought to light the dynamic curricula, such as robotics and "Rumpus" which helps bring day students and dorm students together. The house system helps school spirit and fosters an environment where individual students can speak out. I especially appreciated the students' musical performance. the students' hard work and dedication was obvious. It was really the highlight of the day.
The program directors were articulate, interesting and passionate about their subject matter. It was great hearing the details and being introduced to some of the faculty. I was impressed with the “open door” policy of campus life. The Learning Center could make such a difference for prospective students. The community service requirements, the sports academies, the AP computer science, the honor council, providing iPads to the elementary students and MacBook Air computers for the sixth to twelfth grade students, a tech team for safe use of technologies, “game of drones”, digital citizenship, and building character are all aspects of Darlington that make it a unique and attractive school.
The students were engaging and insightful. They answered questions easily and their comments seemed to come from the heart. They certainly came across as the best and the brightest and their participation was delightful and fun. The students were a major highlight of the program, in my view.
This program brought me much closer to the school than ever before, since I never attended school on this campus (I was a Thornwood graduate). The program has encouraged me to become more involved with Darlington personally and financially. I now have an enthusiasm for Darlington’s future growth and prosperity that I did not have in the past. The program will also lead me to reach out to more Thornwood graduates and encourage their participation as well.
The quote from the program that struck me the most is that “it’s not so much how we feel about Darlington, but how Darlington makes us feel.”
Deborah Harris (‘72T) has been practicing law for over 30 years and is based in Marietta, Ga.
Click here for more information about the Leadership Darlington program.
