A Community United

Maclay’s 58th Annual Convocation

Photo by Deborah Mayer

Maclay is built on traditions, such as Homecoming Week, dress-down-days or high-fiving Rowdy at a pep rally. On Aug. 12, 2026, one such tradition took place to begin Maclay’s 58th school year. This tradition is Convocation, which brings the students, faculty and staff together to celebrate the beginning of the school year.

As per Maclay tradition, Convocation began with the seniors entering Webster Gym hand-in-hand with the first graders, representing the beginning and end of a student’s journey at Maclay.

“It was super sweet to get to walk with the first graders, and it felt very nostalgic,” senior Antonia Nowels said. “Convocation is special because you get to see children at the start of their school journey and kids at the end of it. It has been a great way to start the school year.”

After the seniors and first graders sat down, Maclay’s student leaders came up to the podium. Class President Jediah Stewart and Student Council Co-Presidents Layla Hafez and Avery Campbell delivered speeches about Maclay’s values, culture and history. Head of School James Milford then followed with remarks about growth and taking opportunities.

“I was definitely a little nervous at first, but once I got up there, I really enjoyed it,” Stewart said. “I am really honored to have the opportunity to do something that few people can.”

Convocation also featured a number of student performances. This year’s performances included Bhavya Ramakrishnan performing “Violin Sonata in G Major” by Mozart; sisters Chiara and Genevieve Lemmon performing “Shostakovich’s Prelude” by Dimitri Shostakovich; Georgiana Couch singing “Follow the Stars” from “Dreamland: The Musical”; and Kai Okui, Bleakley Shettle and Zach Revell performing “Concerto for Two Violins in D Minor” by Bach.

“Every time I perform at Convocation, I find it quite exhilarating,” Okui said. “I am always grateful to be able to perform music I enjoy in front of the entire school.”

Finally, to “ring in” the new school year and wrap up Convocation, the annual ringing of the Headmaster’s Bell took place. This honor is given to the longest-serving current faculty member at Maclay, and kindergarten teacher Barbara Cairns continued the tradition by ringing the bell to start the 2026-2027 school year.

“It was special because it was actually my first time attending the convocation,” Cairns said. “I love seeing the seniors with the younger students. It was an honor and privilege.”

Convocation is a beloved tradition, and holds a special place in many students' hearts. The feeling of community and coming together makes it one of Maclay’s most special moments.

“Knowing this is my last Convocation has made me realize how special this place is to me,” Stewart said. “When you’re a freshman, senior year feels so far away, but it really does go by fast. Being at Convocation for the last time makes me appreciate the people, traditions, and opportunities I’ve had at Maclay and reminds me not to take this last year for granted.”

Now that Convocation is complete and the 2026-2027 school year is underway, students and faculty alike are looking forward to making connections and exploring new opportunities.