Dear Deerfield Alumni

by Joshua B. Binswanger '80

In the fall of 1998, Bink Garrison '66, P'94, '00, convened his first meeting as president of the Executive Committee. During this gathering, he stressed the need for every organization to have a vision, noting that while it may not be possible to fulfill that vision in its entirety, doing so would provide an ideal toward which to strive. After lengthy and spirited discussion, the committee agreed to the following vision statement: "To lead and represent the most informed, enthusiastic, involved and supportive alumni body in the world."

Today, thanks to our uniquely dedicated alumni and the tireless efforts of Mimi Morsman and the folks in the Alumni Office, a growing number of initiatives are bearing fruit. Regional Deerfield clubs are quite active, bringing, cross generations of the Deerfield family together to share experiences that are both enlightening and entertaining. The Pathways program provides outreach from the academy's alumni to its current seniors. The Summer Institute brings people back to campus to stimulate the intellect and expand cultural horizons. Next fall the first-ever "Women of Deerfield" weekend will be celebrated, September 23 - 25, 2005. And there is more to come.

As our work continues, you can help. Our alumni body is more than 10,000 strong and growing, and in our ongoing efforts to be advocates for this diverse constituency, the Executive Committee and I encourage you to visit, the Deerfield website and share your thoughts and suggestions with us, and keep us informed with news of yourself and your alumni friends. Your involvement provides an important asset for the work that lies ahead.

Besides, Bink and I are Red Sox fans. And if dreams can come true for Red Sox Nation...then anything is possible!