Since its inception in 2021, the International Board of Governors has met virtually, with the purpose of building an even stronger Blair Academy brand across the globe, speaking firsthand with families about their international experiences with the School, attracting the best prospective students from around the world and increasing philanthropic support. For the first time, members met in person on April 15 in Singapore during Blair’s recent trip to Asia.

“The Blair community is built on connections, so it was refreshing to finally share a room with the International Board of Governors and engage face-to-face with current parents and alumni,” said Susan Long, Associate Director of Advancement.

Mrs. Long was joined by Head of School Peter G. Curran and Chief Advancement Officer Craig Hall to attend the meeting with the board of international parents and alumni. International Board of Governors co-chair William Bao Bean ’91 P’23 ’25 opened the meeting by thanking those in attendance for joining them and aiding the board’s mission. As a current Trustee and alum, Mr. Bean furthered the Board’s message, stressing the importance and strength of the Blair network and how each member plays a vital role.

Throughout the meeting, Mr. Curran addressed the Board on the state of the School, sharing news of the most recent admission cycle that concluded in April and the upcoming events that will take place through the end of the school year. Mrs. Long took time to connect with current international families, sharing resources available to them and discussing the needs many encounter as a growing population within the Blair community. Currently, Blair students represent 29 countries and 17 percent of enrollment is international students.

“Over the past few years, this Board has been instrumental in opening avenues of access for Blair Academy to educational and cultural opportunities,” Mr. Hall noted. “I am grateful for all the members who have supported the School and assisted the advancement office by advocating for the needs of Blair today and in the future.”

Also on the agenda for the Board meeting was an update on the All In campaign. Mr. Hall shared the details of this dynamic and evolving blueprint for Blair’s future as we look to celebrate Blair’s 175th anniversary in June and beyond. Honoring and amplifying the core values of relationship-based learning and superior academic preparation, more than 60 Trustees, parents, alumni and faculty members collaborated to create this plan, which focuses on four key priorities: faculty talent and excellence, forward-thinking programs, our historic and state-of-the-art campus, and Blair’s long-term financial strength. The International Board of Governors looks forward to supporting Blair in their efforts to achieve the vital objectives of our 2018-2025 Strategic Plan and ensuring that the Blair experience continues to be enriching and impactful for generations of students and that the School is stronger than ever.