On a beautiful September morning, members of the Class of 2027 walked hand-in-hand with first graders into Dann Gymnasium on Edwards Campus — continuing a longtime First Day tradition — as Head of School Thomas W. Philip welcomed students and faculty to the opening of Brunswick’s 124th academic year.

Philip began by reflecting on the change in rhythm that comes with summer — a time to travel, explore, and make room for things that may not fit into the school year. But as August arrives, he said, his thoughts turn to the beginning of a new school year and all that comes with it: new friendships, new teachers, new teams, new activities, and new opportunities to become involved in the Brunswick community.

“Other than school life, there really are very few times when you get a chance every year to push the restart button,” Philip said. “To begin again. To make your life, experience, and reputation whatever you want it to be. Today is one of those moments.”

With that fresh start in mind, Philip offered several suggestions for making the most of the year ahead.

He encouraged students to think about others before themselves, particularly new students who may be finding their way into a new community. He challenged them to look for ways to make someone else’s day better and, in doing so, help preserve what makes Brunswick special.

Philip also urged students to take full advantage of the opportunities around them — to be curious, get involved, work hard, and embrace the chance to explore. 

“You never want to look back and wish you’d done more,” he said.

He reminded students, too, that making mistakes is an inevitable and important part of growing. Strong character, he noted, becomes stronger when it is tested, and those moments provide opportunities to be honest, accept responsibility, and learn from experience.

Finally, Philip encouraged the Brunswick community to appreciate its good fortune and to recognize that everyone is part of something larger than themselves. The school works best, he said, when everyone is “all in it together” and understands that individual actions reflect on the entire community.

“For all of us, move forward,” Philip said in closing. “Whatever you did last year, do more and do better this year. If you aren’t moving forward, you’re moving backward. If you aren’t getting better, you’re getting worse. Momentum in life is a powerful force.”

With a reminder that the faculty is here to support its students, Philip officially welcomed the Brunswick community to the 2026–2027 school year.