February 15, 2008 – “Friendship” was the theme of today’s All-School Assembly and it was addressed in a variety of ways. As a prelude, the Dance Team performed to One Republic’s “Apologize.”

Dean of Studies Peter Hess read a speech – given at his college commencement 25 years earlier by a cherished English professor – that had deeply affected him and offered his reflection on the content. A photo of the professor was projected on a screen behind Hess and he concluded, “Friendships are what’s most important in life; for romantic love to last, you must become friends; family members must be friends if a family is to function. Be attentive to your friends, and make new friends whenever you can.”

Dean of Residence Life Jaime Laurent in her introduction of the next speakers mentioned how nice it is for the faculty and staff to see the continued friendships at Brewster’s alumni events; how later in life, those who were close at Brewster seem to stay close, no matter where they go or what they do.

Ryan Cooper ’09 spoke of how difficult it is to define friendship; philosophers have tried for ages to no avail. He advised, “Cling to your friends and they’ll pull you through.” As his speech progressed, the audience became more and more still in an effort to hear his every word. “As you go out into the world, remember that friendships transcend time and borders. Make an effort. Make a change. Make a friend.” His words were rewarded with appreciative hoots and applause.

Chris McKeown ’08 apologized for not having anything written prepared, but he got his message across. He told of an incident last year when he was very ill from an asthma attack late at night; his friends notified those in charge and stayed by him to make sure he was taken care of, for which he was grateful. “Your best friends are those you can depend on when you need them,” he stated.

Guitarist Steve Patterson, husband of Brewster’s Director of Student Health Services Cindy Patterson, treated the audience to a musical conclusion. “I know you don’t believe it, but the bonds and friendships you form here at Brewster will be with you for a lifetime,” he said. He went on to talk fondly about his long friendship with his high-school buddy Chris, and how they continue to get together when they can, even though Chris lives in Canada. “When we do get together, we sing the following song, which I hope you’ll sing along with me,” and he launched into “You’ve Got a Friend” by James Taylor. Students joined in on the chorus, with a group swaying in time to the music, their arms around each other.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Cooper thanked the speakers and gave this advice: “Those friends who make a difference to you in your life, who are in your thoughts … tell them. Tell them now before it’s too late – let them know what they mean to you.”

Prior to the “Friendship” presentation, Director of Athletics Doug Algate called the 2007 Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Team on stage to accept the banner celebrating their Northern New England Lacrosse League and Lakes Region League Tri-Championship. He then called the 2007 Girls’ Varsity Soccer Team to the stage to present their New England Class C Championship banner. Both teams presented their banners to Dr. Cooper to be hung in the Smith Center.