To the Editor: Your coverage of the financial crisis and how Andover is responding was welcome. In a time of such significant challenge, all members of the community, both internal and external, should understand the problems we face, because we must all be involved in the solution. Your editorial complimented the administration for handling the situation well. Thank you, on behalf of all who have worked to ensure that necessary changes do as little as possible to affect adversely a Phillips Academy education. This is, truly, a team effort. The Board of Trustees, members of the administration, faculty and staff all deserve credit for their unfailing dedication to this community and, above all, to the quality of teaching and learning here on Andover hill. Alumni, parents and you students, too, do your part to help us, as your editorial says, “weather the storm.” For over 230 years, this Academy has not only endured, but thrived. It has emerged successfully from many financial crises: from the economic and monetary crisis of the early republic, through the boom and bust periods of the nineteenth century, to the Great Depression, and the “stagflation” of the 1970’s. We have come through all successfully because earlier generations remained true to our mission, stewarded our resources responsibly, and gave generously. I have no doubt that this generation and those to come will carry on, based on a deep love for this place and its clear and compelling mission: to educate “youth from every quarter for “THE GREAT END AND REAL BUSINESS OF LIVING—that is, to live lives of non sibi. Barbara Chase Head of School
