“Welcome to the Goel Center for Theatre and Dance.” The houselight dims as a hush falls over the crowd. Programs rustle softly as Exonians flip through the notes, their whispers fading into anticipation. Onstage, the familiar termly introduction begins as the curtain rises on another performance of the Phillips Exeter Dance Company. Dance is a sport

It’s yet another beautiful, crisp mid-autumn day at Phillips Exeter Academy. Since my awakening at six a.m. sharp, I have caparisoned myself in a selection of Harkness hierarchy-indicators: yet another smartly ironed suit (ash-grey, but I also own a deep cerulean and light sage, for the occasional special event), a tie in vivid maroon, and a huge metal watch to slip around my wrist, of course.

“Welcome to the Goel Center for Theatre and Dance.” The houselight dims as a hush falls over the crowd. Programs rustle softly as Exonians flip through the notes, their whispers fading into anticipation. Onstage, the familiar termly introduction begins as the curtain rises on another performance of the Phillips Exeter Dance Company.

For over seven years, Principal William K. Rawson ’71, P’08 has provided steady leadership that defined life at Phillips Exeter Academy. He constructed the pillars of the community with a focus on belonging, integrity, and unwavering dedication to non sibi in times when the Academy was learning how to heal and rebuild trust.

Phillips Exeter Academy was named after the founder of the Academy, John Phillips, as well as the town it is situated in: Exeter, NH. Despite being one of the town’s landmarks, the Academy is not the only secondary education institution in town. Located on Blue Hawk Drive, less than 5 miles away from PEA, Exeter High School serves more than 1,300 local students from the town of Exeter and the surrounding area.

Thump. Whoosh. A soccer ball cuts through the air, a group of girls pursuing it down the field to win possession. Their voices echo across the turf—commands, encouragements, and quick calls that reveal both precision and passion. At the heart of this energy lies the four girls’ varsity soccer captains.

Wack. Wack. Wack. Upon entering the squash courts, you are immediately greeted by the repetitive strikes of a squash ball against the glass wall. Squash is a decisive sport—one of patience, persistence, and grit. The sport’s devoted players are prime examples of how endurance and passion can be molded — with dedication and passion. Our new Director of Squash, Sharon Bradey, represents the very spirit of the sport.