NMH Magazine : Spring 2004

Opening Lines: Breaking New Ground

by President of the School Richard W. Mueller '62

I write as the music from the 110th Annual Concert of Sacred Music still sounds in our ears. This wonderful tradition has enriched us over the years and will remain a centerpiece event of NMH. The privilege and respite of sitting in our hallowed Auditorium, coupled with the memories of generations, always enhances the experience. Our tradition of reaching out to people from around the world is evident in the flags of the nations and the diverse music that fill the Auditorium. 

Many of you have expressed concern about whether we will carry traditions forward as we build NMH. Be assured that we are not reinventing the mission of our school; we are refining it for the 21st century in a way that will preserve our heritage and allow us to focus even more on the core values of the head, the hand, and the heart. We count on your presence and support to carry these forward in reality and spirit.

I’m happy to be able to share good news on several fronts as the school continues its transition to one campus. 

Our New Head of School
I commend to you the article in this issue about our new head of school, Tom Sturtevant, and his family. It captures very well the experience, energy, and enthusiasm he brings to NMH at this time of transition. I respect his leadership of our school and look forward to working closely with him as we move to one campus.

Northfield Committee
On May 8 the NMH Board of Trustees established the Northfield committee of the board. It is a standing committee to oversee stewardship of the Northfield campus and finding new uses. I will work closely with the committee to direct and plan future uses for the campus. Carol Ramsey ’70 will chair the committee. A professional management firm will be selected to advise and assist the planning group.

Next steps include creating and launching an advisory committee structure, a timeline, and a process for getting ideas and suggestions from alumni. These are underway now. There are many questions to consider, and we will be thoughtful and deliberate in this process. Our intention 
is to ensure that new uses of the campus will be in keeping with our school’s spirit and mission.

Northfield Renovations and the Moody Legacy 
The Birthplace is experiencing a rebirth, thanks to generous gifts from David Bolger ’50 and Mary Heist ’49. In the last year, workers have shored up its foundation, replaced windows and clapboards, done landscaping, and applied a 
fresh coat of paint. This summer the slate roof is being replaced. As we raise funds, we will turn to interior work that will create a user-friendly museum.

We invite those with a particular interest in financially supporting historical and other projects related to Dwight Moody and the Northfield campus to be in touch with us.

The insurance claim process for repairs to Sage Chapel is ongoing, so we do not have a definite timeline for its reopening. I assure you that, as soon as is humanly and financially possible, we will restore and preserve the chapel for future generations.

Building Projects
We’re moving full-speed ahead to build two new dormitories, using Sasaki Associates as our architects. Each dorm will have a cottage-like feel and house 28 students in a family-style arrangement. They will be an extension of Cottage Row and will be located on the upper side of the road just beyond Memorial Chapel. Groundbreaking will happen this summer.

Sasaki is updating the campus master plan. Meanwhile, the architectural firm of Michael Rosenfeld is developing plans for renovating Holbrook Hall, which will resume its traditional role as the admission office. We are also examining ways to limit automobile traffic on the campus and make it more pedestrian-friendly.

Preliminary program wish lists and conversations for a center for the arts have begun. As we refine programs and size needs, we will begin a search for the appropriate architect for this significant building, a magnet for the campus located closely to where Silliman and Recitation once stood.

On the Road
Another of my principal responsibilities is meeting with alumni, parents, and friends around the country and the world. In the past few months I have visited Florida, Virginia, Washington, DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and Boston. I look forward to continuing the conversation with you about the challenges, changes, and opportunities for NMH today and tomorrow.