Phillips Exeter Academy
Principal Rawson’s virtual assembly remarks

“Exeter lives within each of us and forms around us, no matter the distance between us," said Principal Bill Rawson in a historic virtual...

  • By Bill Rawson '71; P'08
  • July 25, 2024
Our values in action

Recently, an alumnus asked me to share what is most meaningful about serving as Exeter’s principal. For me, it starts with the students. Spending time with them, supporting their experience here, means everything to me. That is especially true now, as we...

  • By Principal Bill Rawson ’71; P’08
  • July 25, 2024
Individual growth and public purpose

As we prepare to welcome our students back to campus this month, we do so with a deep sense of purpose and gratitude. Our students bring an incredible thirst for knowledge, a desire to excel in every aspect of their Exeter experience, and a great sense of joy...

  • By Principal Bill Rawson '71; P'08
  • July 25, 2024
Exeter lives within each of us

Quite a few years ago, returning to the Exeter Inn from an alumni volunteer dinner with the senior class in Love Gym, I found myself walking alone a few paces ahead of an older couple. I stopped to introduce myself, and to my utter astonishment, Mickey...

  • July 25, 2024
2021 Graduation Remarks

On June 6, 2021, Principal William Rawson ’71; P’08 delivered his Commencement address in Phelps Stadium. Before him sat the graduating seniors, in chairs six feet apart. Watch his speech or read the full...

  • July 25, 2024
Principal Rawson’s 2020 Opening Assembly Address

On Sept. 10, 2020, Principal William Rawson ’71; P’08 broadcast his Opening Assembly address to a virtual audience from the steps of Phillips Hall, with a few socially-distanced students in attendance on the quad. Watch his speech or read the full...

  • July 25, 2024
2022 Graduation Remarks

On June 5, 2022, Principal William Rawson ’71; P’08 delivered his Commencement address in front of the Academy Building. Watch his speech or read the full...

  • July 25, 2024
Principal Rawson’s 2021 Opening Assembly Address

On Sept. 10, 2021, Principal William Rawson ’71; P’08 delivered his Opening Assembly address to an audience in Love Gymnasium. Read the full text of his...

  • July 25, 2024
A letter to our community

July 1, 2023 Dear Exeter community, On Thursday, the Supreme Court issued a decision addressing consideration of race in college admissions decisions. While the Court’s decision does not apply directly to Phillips Exeter Academy, this seems an appropriate...

  • July 25, 2024
2023 Graduation Remarks

Members of the Class of 2023: I am pleased to deliver this farewell address. Soon you will be graduates of Phillips Exeter Academy. With diplomas in hand, you will be fellow Exeter alumni. In that sense, we will be peers, members of the same extended...

  • July 25, 2024