Winter Convocation was held on January 18, 2024 in the John D. Solomon Gymnasium. Students in Middle School and Upper School participated in this special day. Students in fifth to eleventh grade gathered and the morning began when the class of 2024 processed into the gym. Everyone joined in the singing of “America the Beautiful”. This was followed by a welcome by Mr. David Lourie, Head of School. Preston Z. ’31 performed Music Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum by Claude Debussy on piano. Then for the first time, two seniors gave speeches reflecting on their time at Collegiate. Both speakers reflected on their impending graduation and who they have become as the result of being students at the School.

Eli R. ’24 spoke first about his 13 years as a Collegiate student, noting, “Throughout my early years at this school, older students supported me with kindness, and now, as a senior, it is my turn to give back to the younger generation of Dutchmen, even if it means as little as helping them place the last blocks on the top of their towers.”

Then, Niranjan D. ’24 shared his thoughts on joining the Collegiate community in third grade. He said: “Because I have spent the greatest part of the last ten out of my eighteen years with Collegiate people, my class has literally shaped me into who I am today; the size of the school has made it possible for me to know everyone around me at all times well enough to feel truly comfortable and at home.” 

The morning ended with the singing of the Alma Mater.