On a warm late-summer evening, the 2016 Convocation ceremony officially opened the 176th academic year at the Williston Northampton School during an event held on the Quadrangle on September 16.

Class President Natalie Aquadro ’17 spoke about the “Williston magic” that will shape the year ahead. Her full speech is here.

Head of School Robert W. Hill welcomed those assembled and introduced keynote speaker Austin Sarat. Read a transcript of his speech here.

Professor Sarat, the William Nelson Cromwell professor of jurisprudence and political science at Amherst College, gave the keynote address. Read his remarks here.

Peter Valine presented chairs to three members of the faculty. The text of his remarks is here. At an assembly that morning, Valine awarded instructorships to four teachers. His introductions are here.

Following the event, students shared a special dinner with their classes. They then attended a party in the Athletic Center.

Photographs of the event are on Flickr (here). The link to video is here.