The strength of Blair connections was on prominent display at the installation of former Blair faculty member Laurie (Johnson) Lambert, who was installed as head of school at the Stoneleigh-Burnham in Greenfield, Massachusetts, this fall. Mrs. Lambert’s transition from inspiring teacher to visionary leader comes as no surprise to those who had the privilege of working with her at Blair. In the 1990s, Ms. Johnson, as she was then known, quickly became beloved as a Blair English teacher and assistant theatre director. Directing three productions per year, she formed close bonds with many students, so much so that students dedicated the 1992 yearbook to her “with great admiration and gratitude.” Recognized as a mentor with patience and perseverance, she brought theatre to life with her infectious spirit. 

During her installation ceremony at Stoneleigh-Burnham, Mrs. Lambert was honored with an introduction from Rachel (Spierling) Stone, head of school at the Canterbury School in New Milford, Connecticut. The pair first crossed paths in 1994 when they were both young teachers at Blair, a period during which they met their husbands and formed the foundations of their careers alongside a dynamic group of fellow faculty. Since leaving the hilltop, the two have found ways to stay connected and Mrs. Stone was especially pleased to offer her support as Mrs. Lambert assumed the role of head of school at an all-girls institution. “It is a powerful opportunity to inspire, support and advance the voices of these talented young women,” Mrs. Stone told those assembled at the ceremony. “Laurie’s career has been marked by her willingness to roll up her sleeves in order to tackle whatever and whenever the next challenge surfaces….This is the perfect partnership.” All of us at Blair are excited to see Mrs. Lambert’s vision for the Stoneleigh-Burnham School come to life, and we look forward to cheering her on in her well-deserved new role.