2026 Commencement Welcome from the Board of Trustees, Steven Romick P'26

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, welcome to the 2026 Millbrook Commencement.

Thank you to the faculty, administration, and everyone whose dedication creates the community that makes Millbrook so extraordinary. My wife, Eden, and I appreciate the thoughtfulness, wisdom, and steady presence you have given not only to our daughter, Ella, but also to every student who has found a home here.

What you do is far more than a profession. You have chosen to live alongside more than 300 young people as they navigate the emotional and transformative years of becoming who they are. That takes uncommon patience, generosity, humor, and heart, and we are profoundly grateful that all of you answered that calling.

Of course, Millbrook would not be Millbrook without its students, as represented by this remarkable Class of 2026. And none of you would be here – or, for that matter, anywhere – without the love and support of your families. Thank you for entrusting your children to Millbrook.

When Mr. Downs invited me to join the board, he assured me I was "known and needed." I thought that line was just fluff, but it quickly became clear that he had assembled a talented, caring, and committed group, exemplifying the passion and compassion that is Millbrook's DNA. I was all-in.

What makes this place truly distinctive is that it prepares its students not simply for success, but for lives of meaning and consequence. While many schools aspire to lofty objectives, Millbrook genuinely lives its mission—"not for oneself, but for all"—fostering an unparalleled culture of kindness. And of course, while most schools can feel like a complete zoo… Millbrook actually has one.

As a board, our most important responsibility is to ensure we have a capable head of school. Class of 2026, I ask you, do you think we have the right person?

We also have an obligation to ensure that Millbrook continues to evolve and adapt—offering outstanding academics and extracurriculars, essential student support, a talented and engaged faculty, and facilities worthy of this community. We owe so much to the generations before us, whose stewardship built what we enjoy today, but achieving our best-in-class goals means paying that goodwill forward.

This fall, a new boys' dorm will open, and we hope to break ground on a new athletic facility in the near future. While you may not directly benefit from these projects, they reflect the same spirit of generosity that helped create one of the most beautiful independent school campuses in the country. So, graduates and families, I hope you will help ensure Millbrook’s future for those still to come.

Class of 2026: Embrace the present while planning for your future. Social media promotes living for today, but wise choices now shape your path ahead. Stay open to change and commit to lifelong learning. Remember, knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad.

Good luck, graduates. Give more than you take, and you will find that you will receive more than you give. Maintain respect and affection for each other and the common cause. I have every faith that you will carry forth the values and curiosity instilled here at Millbrook. The world needs your kindness—now more than ever.