Watts, who was in the National Press Building that morning, was on his way to Capitol Hill when news broke of the attacks. He was at his bureau when the Pentagon was struck, and the Capitol was swiftly evacuated. Speaking to students, he described the “fog of uncertainty as people tried to figure out what was going on,” as news reports came in rapidly, and misinformation spread in the chaos of the moment.

While inside the National Press Building—just three blocks from the White House—Watts and others felt the impact of the plane hitting the Pentagon. The force of the explosion shook buildings in the heart of Washington, leaving many to wonder whether the White House or Capitol might be next.

Beyond the immediate devastation and loss of life, Watts also emphasized the stark impact on the financial system, along with the real sense of sadness and danger that lingered in the days and weeks after the attacks. Markets were thrown into disarray, with banks and financial institutions paralyzed by uncertainty. He spoke about the ripple effects of the disruption, as Wall Street ground to a halt and global markets reeled.

To give students a sense of how the media documented this unprecedented event, Watts shared MarketWatch’s front page from September 11, 2001, as well as coverage from the following week—when his Washington bureau office received an anthrax-laced package, part of a second wave of terror that further heightened national fears.

Students engaged in a thoughtful Q&A session, asking Watts about the feeling on the ground in D.C. and how people reacted in the moment. He described a city caught between shock, fear, and resilience, as journalists, government officials, and civilians all struggled to comprehend the scope of the attack.

The visit was organized by Humanities faculty member Ross LeBlond, whose students have spent the trimester exploring themes of change in American lives. As part of their coursework, students have been reading Reluctant Hero by Mike Benfante, a survivor who carried a woman in a wheelchair down 68 flights of stairs in the North Tower. By hearing firsthand from individuals who lived through 9/11—including several members of our South Kent Community, and now a journalist who covered the event—students are gaining a deeper, more personal understanding of the tragedy’s lasting impact.

“Even though this happened before they were born, the impact is still felt by those who lived through it,” LeBlond said. “By bringing in guests who experienced 9/11 in different ways, we’re helping students see that this isn’t just a chapter in a history book—it’s a moment that shaped the world they live in.”

For many students, Watts’ visit was an eye-opening experience, offering a direct link between history and its long-term consequences.

As one student, originally from Korea, reflected, “I knew about 9/11, but hearing about it from someone who was actually there made it feel real in a way I hadn’t understood before.”

South Kent continues to emphasize the importance of understanding history through personal narratives, ensuring that students see events not just as distant moments in time, but as experiences that shaped the world they live in today. Bill Watts’ visit reinforced that 9/11 is not just history—it is a story that still resonates, still teaches, and still matters.

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“At South Kent, we are called to be men of service—to recognize need, to act with compassion, and to uplift our community.”

South Kent School has always stood by its commitment to service, and this year, we are once again taking action to support our neighbors in need. Food insecurity continues to affect families in Kent and beyond, and South Kent School is responding with the fourth annual South Kent Feeds the Need initiative, a community effort to collect monetary donations, nonperishable food, and personal care items for the Kent Community Fund and Kent Food Bank.

In Kent, where the median household income is approximately $101,023, over 100 individuals (or 55 households) currently rely on the local food bank for support. The Kent Food Bank has recently called for donations as its shelves are running low due to a significant increase in families seeking assistance. Last year, South Kent School raised cash and online donations and collected hundreds of essential items. This year, we aim to make an even greater impact.

How You Can Help
📍 Student Volunteers at Davis IGA
South Kent students will be stationed outside Davis IGA on Saturday, February 15, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. They will collect food and personal care donations while distributing lists of the food bank’s most-needed items to shoppers.

In advance, please find a SHOPPING LIST OF MOST NEEDED KENT FOOD BANK ITEMS.

🏒 Hockey Fundraisers for the Kent Community Fund on Saturday, 2/15 and Sunday, 2/16
Our hockey games on February 15th and 16th will also serve as drop-off events for non-perishable goods for the Kent Food Bank. The games are at 12:45pm, 3:00pm on Saturday (2/15) and 9am, 11:15am on Sunday (2/16) at South Kent School’s Stockdale Arena. Spectators are encouraged to bring as many non-perishable items as they can. Cash or online contributions for the Kent Community Fund will also be accepted at this time and the students will be using any funds raised to go shopping for items to donate.

At South Kent, service is not just an expectation—it’s a way of life. As Father Klots reminds us, we are all called to serve, to recognize need, and to make a difference. Through South Kent Feeds the Need, our students are not only providing critical resources, but also upholding the values of empathy, responsibility, and leadership that define our school community.

Thank you for joining us in this mission. Together, we can ensure that no neighbor goes without.

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As the Lunar New Year festivities continue, South Kent School reflects on the vibrant celebrations that brought the Hillside community together. The Lunar New Year, which began on January 29, 2025, marks the start of the new year according to the lunar calendar and is one of the most widely celebrated holidays across the world.

Observed primarily in many Asian cultures—including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Singaporean, Malaysian, Filipino, and Indonesian traditions—Lunar New Year is a time of family reunions, festive meals, and cultural traditions that vary from country to country. A key aspect of the celebration is gathering with loved ones to share meals and welcome the prosperity of the new year.

South Kent students shared personal insights into how their families celebrate the holiday. George Wu ’27, a student from Southern China, explained that chicken is a significant dish in his family’s Lunar New Year feast. “The main thing we eat is chicken,” he shared. “Cantonese people love to eat chicken, and it is always on the table during Lunar New Year.”

For other families, the focus is less on specific dishes and more on the time spent together. Jason Zhou ’27, another South Kent student from China, described his family’s traditions: “There isn’t a typical big event for us. We simply prepare a larger meal than usual, take our time at dinner, and enjoy conversation with family.”

In the spirit of inclusivity and cultural appreciation, South Kent School embraced the Lunar New Year with special events designed to bring the community together.
• Lantern-Making in the Dining Hall – Students created vibrant paper lanterns to decorate the dining hall, symbolizing reconciliation with the past and prosperity for the year ahead.
• Cultural Dinner Experience – The dining hall featured traditional Asian dishes, giving students and faculty the opportunity to experience and appreciate the rich culinary heritage of the holiday.

By incorporating these celebrations, South Kent School honors the diversity of its student body while fostering a deeper understanding of global traditions. As South Kent celebrates Lunar New Year, the School is also preparing for a historic moment—our first-ever alumni reunion in Asia, as part of our Centennial celebrations. The trip will begin in Shanghai on March 29, 2025, followed by alumni gatherings in Seoul and Tokyo, strengthening global alumni connections.

To kick off this exciting journey, Professor Sukehiro Hasegawa ’62 will deliver a special talk on Friday, February 7th, sharing memories from his time on the Hillside and insights from his distinguished career in international diplomacy. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, “South Kent instilled in me a deep sense of curiosity and resilience. I am honored to share my journey and discuss how the lessons I learned on the Hillside have shaped my work in international diplomacy.”

For more information about the Pathways Series Talks, please contact Lara Barrett, Director of External Affairs.

This upcoming trip will be an opportunity for alumni to reconnect, celebrate South Kent’s lasting impact, and reinforce the strong ties within our global community.

With the Lunar New Year celebrations bringing students together on the Hillside and the upcoming Asia reunion set to strengthen alumni connections worldwide, South Kent School continues to honor tradition while embracing the future.

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We are launching the event in February with a special talk by South Kent alumnus Professor Sukehiro Hasegawa ’62, who will share stories of his time on the Hillside and insights from his esteemed career in international diplomacy. Reflecting on the upcoming event, Professor Hasegawa said, “South Kent instilled in me a deep sense of curiosity and resilience. I am honored to share my journey and discuss how the lessons I learned on the Hillside have shaped my work in international diplomacy.”

Joining us from the Hillside will be Head of School Brian Sullivan, The Reverend Steve Klots, and South Kent alumni leaders Dillon Duncan ’04 and Rich Brande ’88. Reflecting on this milestone event, Brian Sullivan shared, “South Kent’s influence extends far beyond the Hillside, and it’s truly special to bring our global community together to celebrate a century of excellence. This reunion is a testament to the lasting impact of a South Kent education.”

The Shanghai event will feature a variety of exciting activities, including a scenic boat cruise and an evening of karaoke. The highlight of the weekend will be a dinner hosted by Ron Xin Wang ’11 at his renowned restaurant, the Shanghai Yichun Garden Seafood Restaurant. Attendees will have the chance to reconnect with fellow alumni, share memories, and celebrate South Kent’s enduring spirit.

Following the gathering in China, the team will travel to Seoul and Tokyo for additional alumni events, further strengthening the bonds within our international community.

The Reverend Klots emphasized the significance of this reunion, stating, “The spirit of South Kent is one of lifelong brotherhood, and it’s incredible to see that bond transcending borders. This journey will not only reconnect alumni but also inspire future generations of South Kent students.”

We are excited to bring the South Kent family together in Asia for the first time. Stay tuned for more details, and we look forward to seeing you there!

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This week marks the beginning of South Kent School’s second annual Experiential Learning Week, a highly anticipated tradition that debuted in 2024 and quickly became a hallmark of the South Kent experience. Designed to spark curiosity, foster self-reliance, and break up the long New England winter, this week provides students with the opportunity to engage in hands-on, dynamic learning outside the traditional classroom setting.

For South Kent, Experiential Learning Week is about more than just trying something new—it’s about connecting to the simplicity and directness of purpose that underpin our school’s values. As Jesse Brennan, Dean of Mastery Learning & Curricular Innovation, explains, “Whether it’s building something with your own hands, discovering self-reliance on a hike, or mastering a new skill, this week is a chance for students to grow in meaningful and intentional ways while bringing energy to the winter season.”

Students will have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of courses that cater to diverse interests and spark exploration.

A small sampling of the offerings for 2025 include:

– Tapas: A Regional Tour of Hispanic Cuisine
– Exploring the Litchfield Hills Through Hiking
– Tastes (Culinary Arts) of Upstate NY
– Introduction to Bitcoin
– Mastering Chess
– Carpentry
– Introduction to Stage Combat
– Acting, Communication, and Media Techniques
– Spaces for God: Exploring Diverse Religious Traditions

Beyond the daily courses, the week is packed with engaging evening activities designed to bring students together in the spirit of camaraderie and competition.

Highlights include:
– A week-long 6v6 intramural tournament
– A “Chopped” cooking competition at the North Campus kitchen, culminating in a Friday “Tournament of Champions”
– An esports tournament
– DIY pizza-making
– Casino Night
– And other fun and interactive experiences

Experiential Learning Week is a reflection of South Kent School’s commitment to providing a holistic education that goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. It’s about helping students discover new passions, build practical skills, and create lasting memories in a supportive and dynamic environment.

As the second year of this tradition begins, the entire Hillside is buzzing with excitement for what lies ahead. Stay tuned for updates and highlights from this exciting week of exploration, creativity, and growth.

We look forward to seeing our students dive into these unique experiences and embrace the opportunity to grow in meaningful ways during this special week. More photos and updates will be posted at the end of the week – stay tuned.

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Maggie was a cornerstone of South Kent School during her family’s tenure on the Hillside, where her husband, George Bartlett, served as Headmaster from 1969 to 1989. Beyond the many formal roles she held, Maggie became a surrogate mother to countless students, providing emotional support and creating a sense of family for those navigating the challenges of adolescence and life away from home. Her instinctive kindness, unwavering compassion, and selfless dedication helped to shape the fabric of South Kent School, fostering a community rooted in care and connection.

This past summer, we had the privilege of welcoming Maggie back to campus for Centennial Weekend, where her warm smile and vivid storytelling brought joy to all who crossed her path. Maggie shared cherished memories and reminded us of the rich history that binds us together as a community. Seeing her back on the Hillside was a gift, as she embodied the spirit of South Kent in every way.

We will forever be grateful for Maggie’s lasting contributions to South Kent School, from the guidance and care she offered to generations of students to her commitment to building a community where everyone felt valued and supported. As we celebrate her life, we also commit ourselves to continuing the legacy of kindness, compassion, and service she exemplified.

To her family, friends, and all who were touched by Maggie’s love, we extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt appreciation for sharing such a remarkable person with us. Maggie’s legacy will live on in the hearts and actions of all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held at a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, Maggie’s family wishes that you continue to help keep her spirit alive by being kind to your neighbors. Donations may be made to Aids Support Group of Cape Cod, P.O. Box 1522, Provincetown, MA 02657
Servant, well done.

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The team will meet every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM in the state-of-the-art Gaming Room on the lower level of the Martin Henry Building. The room is equipped with five brand-new gaming consoles featuring the latest technology. Students may also bring their own equipment, with the flexibility to play either in the gaming room or remotely.

A Thriving Industry with Real-World Impact
The esports industry is a global phenomenon, boasting a market revenue of over $1.8 billion in 2023 and a dedicated audience of more than 500 million people worldwide. Competitive gaming has evolved into a professional and collegiate landscape, with major leagues like the Overwatch League and League of Legends Championship Series offering multi-million-dollar prize pools and scholarships. The ind

Beyond entertainment, esports is a training ground for essential life skills. Players develop advanced hand-eye coordination, strategic thinking, teamwork, and communication abilities. These competencies are in demand across various fields, from STEM careers to the military and intelligence sectors, where precision and quick decision-making are critical.

Program Details and Vision
The program, which was recently launched, will officially kick off in the first semester of 2026, with plans to announce team captains and a tournament schedule soon. Led by a qualified faculty member, the esports team will evolve from a club activity into a competitive league team, ensuring age-appropriate games and a safe, structured environment for all participants.

“Esports is a forward-looking initiative that prepares our boys for the demands of a digital world,” said Brian Sullivan, Head of School. “Gaming builds advanced technical skills, enhances cognitive abilities, and requires precision, strategy, and rapid decision-making—skills that are highly sought after in fields like the military, intelligence services, and beyond. Most importantly, it fosters teamwork and inclusivity, core values that are central to South Kent’s mission.”

Opportunities for Students
Esports opens doors to numerous career paths, including game design, event management, and broadcasting. Colleges and universities now offer over $15 million in annual esports scholarships, and students involved in gaming often excel in STEM-related disciplines, thanks to their exposure to technology, analytics, and problem-solving.

With the exponential growth of the esports industry and its potential for scholarships, career pathways, and personal growth, this program promises to be a game-changer for students and the South Kent community.

Stay tuned for updates on team developments, tournaments, and additional opportunities within this exciting new program.

For more information, please contact Aron Kowalski: kowalskia@southkentschool.org

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South Kent School presented Elissa Potts, owner of Kent’s beloved Fife N’Drum restaurant, with a framed watercolor by local artist Diane Meier and a certificate of gratitude and recognition from the School. The formal presentation, held at the Fife N’Drum, highlighted the restaurant’s decades-long partnership with the School and its vital role in fostering a sense of connection with students, families, alumni, and employees.

The watercolor, titled The Northern Lights Grace St. Michael’s Chapel, captures a rare and stunning moment on the Hillside when the Northern Lights illuminated the skies above South Kent this past October. The artwork, along with the certificate, symbolizes the deep appreciation South Kent School holds for the Fife N’Drum’s exceptional hospitality and unwavering support.

Head of School Brian D. Sullivan remarked on the enduring relationship, “Visiting the Fife is like coming home to friends—a place where cherished memories are made and shared. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a gathering spot that fosters camaraderie, connection, and a sense of belonging. At South Kent, we believe

deeply in the power of people and place, and the Fife exemplifies this spirit. It bridges the School and the town, bringing together individuals whose passion and dedication profoundly shape the lives of our students and strengthen our entire community.”

The Fife N’Drum has been a steadfast supporter of all the area schools for years, welcoming students, families, and faculty alike with warmth and generosity. The certificate presented to Elissa Potts reads, in part:

“In heartfelt recognition of your exceptional hospitality and unwavering support of South Kent School and the South Kent community. Your years of generosity and dedicated service have fostered a sense of belonging and inspiration within us all.”

The relationship between South Kent School and the town of Kent has long been one of mutual respect and collaboration, with establishments like the Fife N’Drum playing a pivotal role in enriching the lives of the School’s students and broader community.

As South Kent School looks to the future, it remains committed to nurturing these vital bonds, ensuring that the spirit of partnership and gratitude continues to illuminate the Hillside and the town it calls home.

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South Kent School mourns the loss of Robert “Bob” John MacLean, a devoted educator, leader, and advocate for young men’s education, who passed away peacefully at his home in Wilson, Wyoming, on December 14, 2024, at the age of 87.

Born on February 18, 1937, in Coronado, California, Bob’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to education, athletics, and service. A graduate of Bronxville High School and Colby College (Class of 1960), Bob began his distinguished career as an educator, excelling in teaching, coaching, and mentoring. His time at Rye Country Day School is remembered for his impact as an English teacher, head coach of Varsity Hockey and Lacrosse, and architect of the Gerald LaGrange Field House—a lasting tribute to his dedication to athletics.

Bob’s love of hockey was a hallmark of his life. From founding the Wildcat Hockey Camp to his influential roles in coaching associations and clinics, his passion for the sport left an indelible legacy. His leadership extended beyond education and athletics; as co-owner of World Championship Motorsports, Bob brought the same drive and vision to international motorsports.

At South Kent School, Bob’s profound legacy is etched into the fabric of the Hillside. Serving on the Board of Trustees from 1990 to 1999 and as Board President from 1995 to 1999, Bob’s leadership helped shape the School’s path forward. His dedication, vision, and generosity left an indelible mark on the School’s community and mission.

The School’s most distinguished honor, The Robert J. and Mary Anna MacLean Distinguished Service Award, was established in 1999 in recognition of the extraordinary effort, achievement, and service exemplified by Bob and his wife, Mary Anna. The inscription on the award reads:

“The Robert and Mary Anna MacLean Distinguished Service Award was established in 1999 by the Board of Trustees of South Kent School to recognize the extraordinary effort, achievement, and service of a person or persons on behalf of South Kent School. The award is named after its first recipients, two individuals who set the standard for service in the modern history of the School.”

Bob’s unwavering commitment to South Kent School was matched only by his passion for education and his belief in the transformative power of the School. His leadership and generosity during his tenure as Board President helped strengthen the foundation of the School and pave the way for a brighter future.

Beyond South Kent, Bob served his community in myriad ways, including his work on the boards of the Teton County Sheriff’s Auxiliary and the New York Shakespeare Globe. In Wilson, Wyoming, he found joy in fly fishing, time spent on his ranch, and supporting local causes such as the Jackson Hole Land Trust and the National Museum of Wildlife Art.
Bob’s contributions to South Kent were monumental, and his belief in the mission of the School continues to inspire us. We are deeply grateful for all Bob did to ensure South Kent’s enduring legacy. He will always be a part of our Hillside story.
Servant, well done.

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Brian D. Sullivan, Head of School, expressed his pride in these accomplishments, saying, “These recognitions are a testament to the incredible efforts of our dedicated students and Hillside Community. South Kent has always been about more than just academic success—it’s about developing thoughtful, resilient young men who are ready to take on the challenges of an ever-evolving world. We are honored to be acknowledged for our commitment to preparing students for college and beyond.”

Founded in 1923, South Kent has a long history of blending rigorous academics with values like self-reliance, resilience, and leadership. “From the start, it was about giving boys more than knowledge,” Sullivan notes. “It was about teaching them how to take on responsibility and face the real world.”

South Kent’s approach to education is both timeless and progressive. In its second century, the School continues to innovate, introducing programs like Future Literacies, a curriculum focused on artificial intelligence, finance, and entrepreneurship, to ensure students are prepared for a rapidly changing world. Additionally, the Stockdale Leadership Program, inspired by Vice Admiral James Stockdale, guides students through core leadership principles, preparing them for future roles across various fields.

Beyond academics, South Kent places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, offering students hands-on opportunities at the reimagined North Campus, where sustainability projects and culinary arts experiences take place. The campus also serves as a living laboratory for environmental science, giving students real-world, impact-driven projects that deepen their understanding of the world around them.

As Sullivan explains, “South Kent students aren’t just learning concepts—they’re applying them in real-world settings, preparing to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society.”

South Kent also takes pride in its strong sense of community and its focus on holistic student development. Whether through academics, athletics, media arts, leadership opportunities, or service, students are encouraged to engage in activities that foster personal growth, responsibility, and a sense of belonging.

With an enrollment that draws students from across the U.S. and around the world, South Kent School has become a thriving and diverse environment where young men are challenged to grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally.

“We are honored to be recognized not only for our academic excellence but for the strong community we’ve built here,” Sullivan adds. “Our alumni are living proof of the Trinity of Values that South Kent stands for—Simplicity of Life, Self Reliance, Directness of Purpose.”

As South Kent continues to grow and evolve, it remains steadfast in its mission to provide students with a well-rounded, impactful education that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

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