Trinity-Pawling knows how to plan, and there’s no more important task ahead than planning for a smooth Headmaster transition.
Arch Smith and Bill Taylor have communicated throughout this school year to prepare for the changeover. With deep roots at Trinity-Pawling, Taylor is ahead of the game. Between 1988 to 2001, Taylor served as a history teacher, dorm parent, and coach of varsity tennis and JV basketball. He later worked in the Admission office and ultimately served as Associate Headmaster. Bill and his wife, Jennifer, raised their two children (Wilson and Allyson) on campus.
“It’s been fun to collaborate again with Bill,” says Arch Smith. “We spent nine years in adjacent offices, and it’s comforting to know that he will pick up the mantle of leadership. I feel great confidence in his ability to move the School forward.”
Taylor has been on campus several times to meet with faculty, administrators, and trustees. He remains impressed with the student body. “I went down to brunch one Sunday and wandered table to table. Each boy offered a firm handshake and looked me in the eye. That speaks of their maturity and bodes well for the years ahead. T-P is known for the strong interaction between students and faculty, and it’s wonderful to see that bond again.”
Taylor was also gratified to see the structural changes across campus, such as the Arts Center, Scully Hall, faculty homes, and the athletic facilities. “This is what we dreamed of in our 2000 Long Range Planning Committee, and it’s terrific to see it come to fruition.”
The Taylors will move to campus in late June. Over the summer, Taylor and the faculty will read Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck. The book examines how one’s mindset plays a role in learning, growth and achievement. It also reflects on our attitudes toward effort—a timely choice as the School prepares to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Effort System next school year.
The trustees have established a transition committee, which will orchestrate Taylor’s formal installation ceremony on October 10, during Reunion Weekend. “I can’t wait to return to this community where I began my career in education,” Taylor says. “I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve this School once again.”