Reflections of Havergal: 1994-2019

O V E R V I E W

Guiding Lights “The task of the leader is, of its essence, moral.” —DR. SUSAN DITCHBURN

A guiding light is someone who inspires and supports an individual or a group, and Havergal has been blessed with a succession of exemplary leaders, each one understanding well the responsibilities that came with their positions. During her tenure, Dr. Susan Ditchburn, Havergal’s ninth principal, succinctly defined the role of leaders at the school: The task of the leader is, of its essence, moral. As a leader, I am required to intervene in the lives of others. I must constantly consider questions prefaced by “should” and “ought,” to engage others in questions of “what if?” As a moral enterprise, relationship with members of the Havergal community is central—the ethic of care, trust, and integrity must undergird relationships that constitute our community. On her first appearance at an Evening with the Principal, held in the Ellen Knox Library early in fall1997, Dr. Ditchburn invited members of the audience to consider some of the paintings of the principals on the walls of the room.

A plaque of Havergal’s Principals since 1894.

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