A New Academic Year Begins

Westminster’s new academic year got off to a successful start Sept. 4-5 with the arrival of 401 students hailing from 22 states and 30 countries.

 

During opening days’ activities, they completed registration in Armour Academic Center, picked up textbooks in Cushing Hall, moved into residence halls, met with their advisory groups, and participated in form events and all-school activities. Classes and afternoon activities began Sept. 6.

 

At the first assembly of the year Sept. 7, Headmaster Bill Philip welcomed everyone and gave special recognition to all new students and the Class of 2019. Members of the Prefect Board then shared the Class of 2019 flag that will signal Hill Holidays throughout the year.

 

Head Prefect Scoobi Wilson began his remarks by introducing members of the Prefect Board. He spoke about how Westminster is “a place full of kind, good-hearted people” and encouraged students and faculty to promise one thing: “be you.”

 

He then focused comments on students in each form. For Third Formers, he advised them to keep an open mind about their peers and to immerse themselves. “Whether you find yourself trying out for a varsity team or competing on a fourths team, try and embrace everything that Westminster throws at you because opportunities like these don’t come very often,” he said.

 

For Fourth Formers, he told them their workload will increase and asked that they welcome all new Fourth Formers. “I trust you to welcome them and hope your sophomore year bridges the gap into your growing leadership position,” he said.

 

To Fifth Formers, he encouraged them to “stay on top of things” and added, “This was easily my favorite year at Westminster and can be yours, too, if you keep your priorities in check and have a little fun along the way.”

 

For his fellow Sixth Formers, he proclaimed, “This is our year.” He urged them to enjoy the year and to work to improve themselves and others. “Try new things you never had the chance to do as underclassmen and, most importantly, be remembered for the right reasons,” he said.

 

Following the assembly, members of the Sixth Form gathered on the Sixth Form Lawn to receive their Class of 2019 pin or pendant from alumni and honorary alumni. The class had designed the pin and pendants, and their enthusiasm for Westminster’s traditional Pin Ceremony was not dampened by light rain. After the ceremony, all new students entered Andrews Memorial Chapel where they signed the book signifying their formal entrance into school and shook hands with Headmaster Philip and members of the Prefect Board.