In my first few months at SMUS, I have been making a strong effort to get to know our teachers, staff, alumni and families. I’ve had the opportunity to meet many of you in the hallways, in classrooms or at community events. Often, I have asked for your SMUS story – how you came to the school and how long you have been here. In hearing your stories, what stands out most for me is the deep sense of connection and overwhelming pride that exists in every aspect of our school. I’ve heard from grandchildren whose families have been here for decades, teachers who grew up on campus as the child of a staff member, and people who first heard about SMUS from a friend living on the other side of the world. During Alumni Weekend I also heard many stories of the life-changing difference that SMUS has made, enriching lives across generations.
The longevity of connection has also surprised me. I have heard from alumni who returned as teachers (often remaining for careers that span 25+ years), parents who stay involved with the school long after their children have graduated, and students who continue returning to campus 60 years after they first left, all telling me that the SMUS journey really is a journey for life. In every story, it is clear that this is a place that takes care of people and has a tangible impact on lives. It’s a community, and a family, in every sense.
This week, we welcomed our new day families to our community, starting their SMUS journey with an opportunity to meet, make friends and begin experiencing that same sense of pride and connection. They will soon have their own SMUS stories, and I’m sure they will be just as impactful as the ones I have been hearing.
Over the past couple of months, I have also been taking an in-depth look at our communications tools and systems. Many of you have participated in our recent survey, and some of you were invited to have an in-depth conversation with a consultant. Data also tells a story, and I can tell you that most parents, students, alumni and staff identified a referral – someone sharing their SMUS story – as a top reason for deciding to apply to this school.
Clearly we are all storytellers, and we are telling stories that inspire action. Mine is short, but I can tell you that the sense of pride and belonging is already deep, and I am sure it has already encouraged more than a few people to consider joining our community.
I will have more stories to share with you from our communications survey when we return in the fall, but as we move into this season of gratitude, giving and considering our legacy at the school, I would ask you to reflect on your own SMUS story, and to share it in whatever way you can. You may choose to post a Google review, submit an Our Kids testimonial or simply speak with family and friends as you rest and reconnect over the summer. Keep telling your stories, I can’t wait to hear and help share more of them.
