News & Events 2006-2007

Alumni Weekend 2007
Jack Bogle '47 Speaks; Peter Amerman Honored

All weekend long, cars lined the pathways of Blair with license plates from Texas and Georgia, as former classmates gathered for Alumni Weekend 2007.

One of the highlights of the event was a presentation by Jack Bogle ’47 (founder and retired CEO of The Vanguard Group) in – of all places – Bogle Hall, followed by a signing of his latest book, The Little Book of Common Sense Investing, from John Wiley & Sons. Click here to read Jack Bogle’s speech. Jack, who returns for his 60th class reunion, was asked to speak on three topics, including his two years spent at Blair, his 35 years as a member of the School’s Board of Trustees (he also served as Chairman), and the fact that two of his grandchildren are past/current Blair students.

Calling his time at Blair “one of the seminal events of my life,” Jack noted that his success here was a matter of determination, rather than a product of his “modest IQ.” As for the success of Blair Academy since his graduation, he praised current Headmaster T. Chandler Hardwick for his fine leadership and Dr. J. Brooks Hoffman ’36 for “bringing Blair back to life” through his tremendous fund-raising efforts. Like Jack, Brooks served the School as a long-time Trustee and Chairman of the Board. As for his grandchildren, Jack noted that their decision to come to Blair was not the result of any undue pressure, but rather, their strong desire to be educated at this School. He answered questions from the audience, noting that at least 100 Blair students have been recipients of Bogle Brothers Scholarships since these funds were first made available.

Numerous events followed, including a golf scramble and 50th Reunion Dinner on Friday evening. The festivities continued on Saturday with the All-Alumni Parade and Headmaster’s Assembly, where the retiring Peter Amerman was honored for his service as school chaplain for the past 38 years with a scrapbook presentation and video by Judith Kampmann. A luncheon barbeque, athletic events, benefit car raffle drawing (won by Rob Sigety ’75), cocktail reception, dinner and dancing rounded out the event.

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Updated 6/19/07

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