Memories shared. Friendships formed. Opportunities gained. What we love about Mercersburg is as varied and unique as the individuals we are. As Head of School Quentin McDowell P ’25, ’27 shared in his opening letter on page 2, it’s challenging to name only one thing that we love about our school. What should come first or have greatest significance? That varies from person to person and is dependent on timeframe and situation. We’re not going to rank any of these. We’re simply sharing them so you can reflect and remember. Take a look through the next few pages, and as you wander through this alphabetical journey, you might be tempted to take a side trip down memory lane. Go ahead. Indulge and enjoy!

A

Alma Mater

A program nears its end. Students rise from the Irvine Memorial Chapel pews, place arms around classmates’ shoulders, and prepare to sing. Introductory notes of the Alma Mater fill the air. The singers realize the shared sense of community, especially when it’s time to shout the last phrase, “With full hearts and loud swelling cheers!” It’s a tradition that never fails to inspire, as noted by Director of Executive Services De-Enda Rotz P ’25. “There’s something so moving about being in the chapel when the community sings the Alma Mater.”

B

Boys’ Garden

A longtime campus fixture, the Boys’ Garden—so named because Mercersburg was an all-boys’ school until the 1960s—sits at the base of a beautiful stone staircase adjacent to Traylor Hall. Alex Kaplan ’28 shared that he likes the Boys’ Garden because “it is always nice down there, and it offers peace and quiet.” It’s easy to understand why, with its elegant location and lofty trees. The garden is a popular spot for weddings and for the annual spring Stony Batter outdoor performance. To read more about the Boys’ Garden, see From the Archives on page 79.

C

Carillon

When thinking back to his time at Mercersburg, Chris Spurry ’66 remembered the sights and sounds of the changing seasons. “My fondest memory is walking across campus on a crisp fall morning listening to the chapel bells. This felt meaningful and uplifting.” The Swoope Carillon bells in the Irvine Memorial Chapel are made of metal donated by alumni and friends from around the world and include shavings of the Liberty Bell, copper coins that belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte, and fragments of the USS Constitution. The carillon is played during most chapel events, most Sunday afternoons during the school year, and for some school meetings. 

D

Dining hall tables

A staple of the Mercersburg experience, meals in the dining hall provide connection and a sense of community, even to those who have only recently stepped onto campus. For Christopher Bright, who became a member of the science faculty in 2024, conversations around the dining hall tables have become something to love because of all the interesting students, faculty, and staff who can be found there. “Each time I sit down, whether it be a buffet meal or family-style meal, I learn something new. I learn from a colleague about the Archimedes principle and how cement boats float. I discuss season goals with a track athlete, or I learn about the traditions at this school. I am thankful for the conversations that happen around our dining hall tables.” 

Looking back, dining hall memories float to the surface for Al Meyers ’74, who recalls “sitting at the dining table drinking hot tea out of huge dented metal pitchers with friends long after dinner was over.” To read about plans to renovate Ford Hall into an upgraded dining center, see page 42.

E

Excellence

An education based in excellence pays dividends for a lifetime. “Mercersburg provides us with amazing sources to pursue our dreams that aren’t offered in other high schools,” said Margaux d’Arabian ’25. “I love the community and the special family that is so strong and incredible.” At Mercersburg, financial aid makes that excellence accessible to everyone, noted Will Willis P ’22, ’24, a member of the science faculty: “I love that about half of our student body is on financial aid, because we are able to attract the best students from all walks of life and so many parts of the world.” While students are encouraged to pursue excellence in and out of the classroom, that pursuit extends well beyond graduation. Our alumni continue to reach the heights of their careers and enable others to do so as well. 

F

Friendships

As Mercersburg students get to know each other and resident faculty members in the dorms, lifelong friendships are formed. “One of my favorite things is that I can walk up to my friends’ dorm and hang out with them or see my teachers and adviser more often and form a closer bond with them,” said Mary Maurer ’28. Her classmate, Eve Gunkelman ’28, also shares that feeling: “Having lived here my whole life, the school isn’t really new to me, but one thing I love is the family-like feeling you get when you walk in the doors of your dorm. I love that people in the dorms are so kind. They share, laugh, hug, and spend time with one another. It’s a truly wonderful thing.” Teagan Mewett ’27 said she loves “the family that I’ve found at Mercersburg. From dorm faculty to friends and teammates, I’ve come to love so many people here.” It is the people–students, alumni, faculty, staff, and families–who make Mercersburg a truly special place, said Assistant Dean of Academics Stephen Fowler, mathematics faculty member.

G

Games in the Simon Student Center

From billiards to table tennis (or pool and pingpong, if you prefer), there’s always a chance to unwind with friends at the Simon Student Center, or the SSC, as we call it. After finishing a “nice game of pig” on a Friday night inside the SSC, Hadley Frey ’26 loves to take a walk with friends. The Simon Student Center opened in 2013 and was named by Board of Regents president emeritus Deborah Simon ’74 in honor of her parents and all parents who send their children to boarding school.

Geography

The location of our school makes a difference, said Andrew McCabe ’84, P ’25. “Geographically, where the school is located allows students to focus on development and learn about each other, learning to care and learning to live as a community, which is a lifelong skill, and something to take with you the rest of your life.”

H

Head of School

As a leader, the head of school needs to relay the educational mission to a variety of groups, from students and parents to faculty and staff, all the while connecting and updating alumni on the progress of the school. To be able to accomplish this task with a composed demeanor is no small feat, but one that is received with appreciation. Sophia Jin P ’26 related how it’s comforting to know that Quentin McDowell P ’25, ’27 is leading our school: “What I love about Mercersburg is its sense of calmness, whether it’s the campus, the students, the faculty, or especially Head of School Quentin McDowell. This is especially important for a leader. When the world is noisy and fast-paced, with information flooding in from all sides, Mercersburg can maintain and preserve its calmness and composure, without rushing, and that is its charm.”

I

Irving-Marshall Week

Around campus, plans are being made for the beloved Irving-Marshall Week, which will be at the conclusion of winter term in March. From public speaking auditions for Declamation to strategy meetings on team rosters for each sport, the student body is plotting and planning for spirited competition. Every student is a member of either the Irving Literary Society or the Marshall Literary Society. The two societies compete in volleyball, dodgeball, board games, and other contests. The winning society is announced at a school dance on the final night. Annie Mohr ’26 views the week as a bonding experience for team members: “I love Irving-Marshall Week and the spirit and love that I share with my society members and officers.”

J

Jim Malone, science and mathematics faculty member

Thomas McNeil ’25 listed “Mr. Malone’s physics class” as one of the things he loves about Mercersburg. Every school has a teacher like Jim Malone P ’01, ’03 who connects across the board with a diverse range of students. When that teacher also has the ability to incorporate fun into learning, the outcome becomes memorable. Malone, who has been employed at Mercersburg since 1979 and is the longest-tenured current faculty member, has that appeal for current and former students. Walk into his classroom to be caught up in collaboration among peers. Just know that you might find him conducting class in the hallway or outdoors. Physics has no boundaries, after all, and his classes learn this firsthand.

K

Kindness

School Minister Rev. Dr. William Whitmore loves the kindness present in our community. As the featured speaker during Convocation in September, Whitmore emphasized the importance of developing virtues that frame our lives. Whitmore challenged the students to “develop as a person of character who’s more than just something a résumé or a transcript can quantify. I hope you practice kindness. I hope you’re mindful of others, and are willing to give grace, both to yourself and those around you.” 

L

Leaves and Laughter

From changing leaves to snow-covered branches, Mercersburg’s 300-acre campus is a place where students can discover and explore new paths. Our wide-open spaces provide a respite from the rigor of boarding school life. As noted by Mark Pyper ’83, the beauty of campus can be both calming and inspiring. Stop and listen to students’ laughter as they walk to class. It’s certainly something to love, noted Jessica Doubell, director of operations for the Burgin Center for the Arts. “I love the peace I feel as I walk around campus, while the leaves are changing on the trees and the wind is blowing softly in my hair. Everyone belongs somewhere, and it’s great when they find their place.”

M

Marshall Society 

Because we put Irving-Marshall Week under “I,” we have to give some love to the Marshall Society here. No bias. We promise. 

Mentoring

Mentors are provided to new students to help them adjust to boarding school. At weekly group meetings throughout the fall and part of the winter term, 9th graders participate in Peer Group programs, and new 10th graders take part in Mentor Leadership programs. Discussions cover homesickness, use of technology, exam preparation, use of time, treatment of others, drugs and alcohol, and self-reflection, plus there’s a healthy dose of games and fun activities thrown into the programming each week. Director of Peer Group and Mentor Leadership Betsy Cunningham P ’22, ’24, a member of the science faculty, loves the Monday night meetings she has with the student leaders: “So much laughter! Just an organic connection every week. It makes me look forward to Monday nights.”

Magical Mixture

“Mercersburg Academy is the best of people, wrapped in the most beautiful of places, crowned by limitless opportunity. The mixture is sublime,” said Chip Cutler P ’23. “My Mercersburg moment was watching a video orientation of the school, featuring totally unscripted student testimonials. The students were bright, happy, articulate, respectful, and witty. I thought, ‘I want my daughter to go there and meet them!’ Well, she went there and through the Mercersburg magic, she became them. No one can put their finger on the exact mixture of ingredients that makes Mercersburg Academy so extraordinary, but it’s truly a magic recipe.” 

Move-in days

“I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE move-in days! The anticipation and excitement when new students arrive on campus for the first time is like no other energy throughout the year!” said Kristi Magalhães, mathematics faculty member and dormitory dean. “And when returning students come back, the smiles, hugs, and joy of reconnection are visible across campus. It’s like we are all collectively saying ‘we’re home again, and all is right in the world again.’” 

N

Networking

Even though Mercersburg “is tucked away in its very own small-town oasis, as you get out into the world, you realize how far-reaching and connected Mercersburg is,” shared Assistant Director of Admission Electa Willander ’18. The relationships formed at Mercersburg continue to flourish throughout life. Rache Brand ’99 likened it to having a leap forward in a career. As founder and CEO of Superstruct, Brand said Mercersburg is “my forever institution of growth. Mercersburg is a chance to keep broadening my horizon and using the network effects to leapfrog forward in my life and career. I have best friends all around the world from so many classes. Mercersburg keeps showing me how infinite the possibility of exchange can be–the more you give in time and energy, the more you get back in value; there is mutuality.”

O

Opportunities

From unique class options to community engagement to global travel, opportunities abound for students willing to try new things. Each term can bring a fresh perspective for those eager to explore. “I love the opportunities my children have to take enriching classes and to be involved in athletics, the arts, and leadership roles,” said Angela Killinger P ’26, ’28. “I love the independence my children are getting and the confidence that is being developed in them to take on risks and not be afraid of failure.” Killinger and her husband, Krister, chair the Executive Council of White Key, our parent volunteer organization which seeks to utilize a network of volunteers to promote communication, philanthropy, relationships, and support between families and the school. Krister said his favorite thing as a parent is seeing his kids “so happy in everything they do there. They love the students, the teachers, the activities, and their classes.”

P

PGAs

At the end of the school day, it’s PGA time! Performance Group Activities provide students with opportunities to work within teams, casts, and offices to excel in athletic, artistic, and preprofessional pursuits. Each term can provide new options for those wanting to try new things. To Riley Choi ’28, PGA activities are a great way to spend the afternoon: “I love the PGA activities, so that we can exercise every day

Q

Quad

The Prentiss-Zimmerman Quadrangle, or “the quad” for short, is a favorite gathering place for students, faculty, and staff. While most learning begins in classrooms, it continues throughout the intentionally designed landscape of campus. Architect Jeff Blanchard, who worked on Mercersburg’s most recent campus master plan, credits founding Headmaster Dr. William Mann Irvine for his practical and enduring form and organization, that of the “street” and the “square”—two planning forms that have connected people and ideas for thousands of years. At Mercersburg, this campus form and organization have sustained more than 130 years of growth and change.

R

Reunion Weekend

In June, alumni return to campus to reconnect with classmates, teachers, staff, and their memories of the school. The weekend includes educational sessions offered by alumni who have excelled in their fields, time for socializing, and an opportunity to relive their boarding
school days by staying overnight in the dorms. Director of Strategic Initiatives
Jenn Flanagan Bradley ’99 related that her class had “an amazing 25th reunion.” See
“W” to learn how they keep in touch. 

S

Step Songs

Each fall, the campus welcomes students’ family members and alumni back to campus for class visits, athletic contests, and an evening with a pep rally feel, Mercersburg-style. Students line the steps of Main Hall to cheer, sing, and show their school spirit before being led by team captains to a bonfire celebration like no other. It’s a great way to get pumped for the next day’s athletic events. Ed Friedman P ’25 expressed the sentiments of many students, alumni, and parents when he shared, “Step Songs is a fantastic all-school tradition that is unique, emotional, and tremendously fun.” 

T

Transformation

To Flynn Corson ’99, Mercersburg was unlike any school he attended previously: “Prior to enrolling at Mercersburg, I had never experienced academic success or developed any intellectual confidence. Mercersburg wrapped its arms around me and committed itself to ensuring that my experience there would prove to be a transformational one. For the first time in my life, teachers made me feel smart, like I had something to contribute to their class that was meaningful and relevant. They also made sure I could not avoid or escape a rigorous process of learning that required deep and careful thought,” said Corson, vice president for school and program development at HH4K, which owns and operates private schools for students with special needs, primarily affected by autism. “My first day at Mercersburg was almost 30 years ago, and I haven’t left school since.”

Trails

These trails were made for walking, and biking, and skateboarding.

U

Uniqueness

The uniqueness of our school transcends expectations and defies description. Dean of College Counseling and Outcomes Michael Conklin sees daily evidence of individual humility and collective pride, which is “unique and essential to the ethos of Mercersburg Academy.” 

V

Value

Mercersburg places value on the abilities of the individual. Xiomara Del Rosario ’26 said she appreciates this emphasis: “I love Mercersburg’s incredible effort to value each student’s strength, which is shown through the school’s academic and athletic achievements.”

W

Warm Welcome

Being new at a school can be challenging, but Mercersburg knows how to put out the welcome mat, said Associate Director of Admission Tia Afa P ’27, who joined the faculty at the start of the 2024-2025 school year. “I love how kind, warm, friendly, and truly welcoming people in our community are,” Afa said. “Our community helps our members feel valued and cared for, and not every school successfully accomplishes this!” 

Y

Yourself

We encourage students to “Define Yourself Here.” The emphasis truly is on the individual. Imagine your future. Change your world. You have extraordinary qualities. How will you use your talents? We believe everyone has something to bring to the community, and we encourage all to do so. Jack Hawbaker P ’10, ’14, faculty emeritus, said he receives “great joy watching our student body that represents such a wide diversity of nations, ethnicity, religion, etc., socializing and loving each other as equals.” 

X

X-Block

OK, so no one said they love X-Block, but students would have to admit that the Wednesday afternoon sessions they attend with fellow students in their grade do promote camaraderie. Where else would they learn all the practical, essential adulting information? Plus, their advisers are on hand to provide additional support. 

Z

Zone

A community that is focused, energized, and engaged is staying on course by being in the zone. Whether it’s an academic pursuit or an athletic contest, “in-the-zone” living enables individual and collective goals to be met. The process at times takes all of us out of our comfort zones, which might be exactly what we need to face the challenges life brings.

Z

Zzzz’s

Students love their sleep-in days. When will the next Head’s Holiday be?