116th School Year Begins

On the morning of August 23, the St. Mark’s campus came to life as 903 Marksmen arrived for the first day of the 2021-2022 school year. From Lower School to Centennial Hall, boys and teachers filled the classrooms, studios, and playing fields. This year’s return was especially exciting as parents were on campus for the first time in many months, assisting boys in the cafeteria, library, and student store.

The School held its traditional Opening Convocation outdoors this year with boys seated in the grass on the Perot Family Quadrangle.

Convocation began with a welcome from Kathy Crow, President of St. Mark’s Board of Trustees. “Every year we commemorate a fresh start. Our renewed energy toward this year highlights our possibilities and potentials and the difference we will make this coming year in ourselves and for each other. These relationships will be one of the most important things you take away from St. Mark's when you graduate. It is what makes all of you brothers for life.”

Student Council President Alex Geng ’22 welcomed his fellow Marksmen with a special greeting for the 124 new students, and encouraged everyone to embrace the coming year. “The 2021–2022 school year will no doubt be remembered for its challenges. But more importantly, it will be remembered by how we respond to them as a community. So go out there, take it all in, and leave your mark.”

Eugene McDermott Headmaster David W. Dini offered gratitude to his fellow faculty and staff members and challenged the boys to take inspiration from the landmark statue in front of Centennial. “Just like that statue, the Path of Manhood is about carrying the future on your shoulders and setting a positive example for those who follow in your footsteps.”

In closing, recent graduate Daniel Sanchez ’21 returned to campus to deliver some words of wisdom to the students. Over this past summer, Daniel served as an intern in the Office of Development & Alumni Relations, where he gained a unique perspective on the lifelong passion of St. Mark’s graduates. “You all are in such an incredible environment where you can grow and become your best self. So, I challenge you to strive to be your best this year. Say hello to people in the hallway, walk into class with a bright smile. Check in on your friends who are struggling. And throughout the chaos of the school year, take a second to step back and just appreciate where you are.”