The D-E "Lifers" celebration dinner took place this week, an annual event in which all graduating seniors who have spent time in all three divisions of the School are recognized.  As is D-E tradition, the event included the Lifers in turn honoring a specific teacher or staff member who has been most influential and important to them during their experience at the School.  The event is typically a highly memorable but bittersweet experience for everyone in attendance, and this year's dinner was no exception. 

Head of School Dr. De Jarnett officially kicked-off the dinner with remarks of sincere appreciation and gratitude to the Lifers, their parents, and their extended families, for their extraordinary commitment to the School. For some families, their relationship to D-E has lasted for 12 or more years. Upper School Principal Joseph Algrant then proceeded to introduce each Lifer by referring back to illuminating, occasionally humorous, comments made by their teachers from their years in the Lower School.  Each Lifer then took over the podium (in some cases students shared the stage due to them honoring the same individual), in order to make personal remarks about the teacher or staff member they chose to honor.  The words of one Lifer held a common theme heard throughout:  "The personal interest you showed in me and the support you gave me helped to make me the person I am today:  thank you."

Congratulations and thank you to our Class of 2013 Lifers. We wish you good luck and godspeed in all your future endeavors!