MBS Celebrates Start of 2025-26 Academic Year with Convocation

Morristown Beard School marked the beginning of the 2025–2026 academic year with a Convocation Ceremony in Founders Hall on Wednesday, September 3.

This year’s theme, Tenacity, was woven throughout the program. Interim Head of School Philicia Levinson P’19 spoke about perseverance and the importance of staying the course even when outcomes are uncertain. “Tenacity is also about finding the ability to keep going even when you don’t know what the endpoint is. When we have a specific goal that we are working towards, that goal can help keep us motivated to work through any setbacks. In the absence of that, sometimes it can be difficult to keep going,” she said. Ms. Levinson reminded the community that the journey holds equal value to the destination: “You may not know what some of your short-term goals are. Be tenacious. Keep working hard, trust the process, and you will create opportunities along the way.”

The theme of tenacity was echoed by faculty and alumni speakers. Andrea Deventer P’08 of the Performing Arts Department reflected on how resilience has defined her MBS experience, from the evolution of community service trips to the opening of Founders Hall and the expansion of the arts program. Brandon Jefferson ’09, a member of the Center for Teaching & Learning, spoke about how his time as a student at MBS shaped the trajectory of his life.

Students also took the stage to share their perspectives and hopes for the year. Upper School SGA President Daniel Raimer ’26 highlighted the supportive and collaborative nature of the MBS community, while Middle School SGA President Vansh Kakaria ’30 expressed excitement about new opportunities for connection between divisions. Olivier Phanord ’26 delivered an inspiring poetic reflection, and Lilly Espinal ’29 shared her enthusiasm for the year ahead.

The ceremony also showcased the extraordinary talents of MBS performers. Maya LeVasseur ’26 and Cameron Weil ’26 captivated the audience with a moving duet of "Get Happy/Happy Days Are Here Again", while the recessional was performed by the Upper School Jazz and Percussion Ensembles, bringing the program to a celebratory close.