Greetings from Hightstown! I am of two minds as I write this letter. One reflects the moment when this magazine will arrive in your mailbox in May. Spring has arrived. Campus is in full bloom. Commencement and reunion events are on the horizon. For alumni reading this, I hope this issue inspires you to return in early June to reconnect with friends and the school.
The second perspective comes from when I am writing this letter. We have reached the end of the winter trimester. It has been the snowiest winter in recent memory. I thought my days of calling snow days were behind me, but instead, we had two, which I am told is unprecedented.
Winter also brought a remarkable stretch of achievement across the community. Our athletic programs produced standout performances. Peddie swimmers and indoor track athletes set several new school records, some of which had stood for many years. The boys basketball team had a great run in the PSIT, finishing second. Our wrestling team continues its strong resurgence, with great results from both boys and girls. At Prep Nationals, one team member — who also happens to be a ninth-grader — earned all-American status.
The arts also filled the winter months with energy and talent. The musical, “Mamma Mia!,” brought the community together for three packed performances. The winter concert, which featured 140 students, showcased the depth of our music program and the commitment of students who devote hours of practice to their craft. These performances, and the performances we see at every chapel, remind all of us of how much talent and creativity thrive on this campus.
In a few short weeks, we will celebrate the Class of 2026 as they cross the stage at commencement. This class, like those before them, is a wonderful mix of talented and hardworking students, artists, athletes and leaders who have benefited from the guidance of the incredible Peddie professional community. Soon they will carry what they learned into the wider world.
Spring also brings Alumni Weekend. It will be my first as head of school, and I look forward to meeting so many of you and hearing your Peddie stories. Your experiences over time form the living history of our school.
As you read this issue, I hope you see spring as a symbol of what lies ahead. Growth. Renewal. Energy. My hopes for Peddie mirror the season as well. The school stands strong. We move forward with purpose, and the future holds great promise for this remarkable institution. I look forward to seeing many of you on campus soon.
Ala Viva!
Jim Hamilton
Head of School