By all measures, 2025-2026 has been another exceptional season for Blair admission—and I'm delighted to share our latest highlights. Each year, we are attracting stronger applicants, with 1,450 applications for this school year, reflecting the rising strength and diversity of our applicant pool. This outstanding interest speaks to what families value most about Blair: our commitment to academic excellence, our strong dual-advisor support system, and our culture of kind, high-character students.

This fall, our admission team is once again preparing to travel the globe, sharing Blair’s story with prospective families. Last year, I spent over three weeks in Asia hosting receptions, conducting interviews and meeting with current parents. Many expressed their belief that the United States continues to offer the best education system to prepare their children for college and beyond. Notably, there is a growing emphasis on achieving a balance between academic excellence and personal well-being. Families are increasingly seeking schools like Blair—places where students are not only challenged but also cared for deeply.  

This shift in perspective reflects a new generation of international families, many of whom have experienced the benefits of an American education themselves—often, at the college or graduate level and, in some cases, even during their secondary-school years. These parents now value factors beyond rankings, such as dynamic school culture and mental health support, and are drawn to institutions that both challenge and support. This evolving mindset aligns well with Blair’s strengths. As we continue our work, we will further emphasize our commitment to providing top-tier academics within a connected, warm and welcoming community.

In fact, one of the most visible and well-received examples of this holistic approach— academic rigor balanced with care—is our beautiful new Center for Health and Well-Being. During campus tours over the last year, families consistently expressed their appreciation that Blair is tangibly committed to integrating academic rigor with a strong focus on wellness.

Thoughtfully designed with students at the center, the space is welcoming and accessible, encouraging connection, self-care and easy access to a range of services. The layout fosters collaboration among counselors, nurses, health educators, and importantly, it allows us to support students in more integrated and effective ways. The new space offers the privacy and flexibility students need—whether for a quiet moment before class, a medical appointment on Zoom, an in-person visit with a clinician or a yoga class that promotes mindfulness. And, student-led initiatives like Project Ally are already thriving here, using the space to host events and promote mental health awareness around campus. 

It is no surprise, then, that the students most drawn to Blair, who excel and realize their full potential here, are those who value this balance between challenge and support. I am often asked what Blair looks for in an applicant. Although there is no single “golden ticket,” we consistently seek students of kindness, high-character and curiosity—young people who will contribute meaningfully to our community and grow from all Blair has to offer. As we continue to introduce families to Blair—on campus and around the globe—I remain deeply grateful for all that you do to bring these exceptional students to the hilltop.