From Bulls to Beacons

In this episode, Kelsey Berry talks with Ben Neely, Chief Academic Innovation Officer at Revolution Prep, about the changing landscape of standardized testing, including the SAT and ACT. They cover recent SAT updates, timing and strategies for test prep, common mistakes, and how students can navigate college admissions effectively. The conversation highlights the importance of full-length practice tests, the types of students who benefit from test prep, and the life skills gained through the process. They also discuss accommodations for students with special needs, the mechanics of testing, and why strong academic skills matter. Overall, they emphasize a balanced approach and the value of test preparation beyond college admissions.

What happens when students meet college reps without knowing which school they represent?
In this episode, we explore the bold experiment of the Anonymous College Fair — an event that flips the script on traditional admissions. Host Kelsey Berry speaks with students and college representatives about what it’s like to focus on fit, not fame.

This conversation reveals how anonymity sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and leads to more meaningful college searches. Whether you're a student, parent, or admissions professional, you'll want to hear how this innovative event unmasks college choice and shifts the way we think about finding the right school.

In this conversation, Kelsey Berry and Jordan Graham discuss the academic challenges and support systems in place for students at Holderness School across different grade levels. They explore how the school aims to stretch students' capabilities while avoiding overwhelming them, emphasizing the importance of personalized support, innovative courses, and experiential learning opportunities.

In this episode, Host Kelsey Berry and Academic Dean Jordan Graham discuss the holistic approach Holderness takes to student development. Their conversation covers innovative course offerings, the course selection process, unique academic support programs, communication and feedback mechanisms, and the holistic approach to student assessment. The episode emphasizes the importance of academic rigor, character development, and finding the right fit for students in their educational journey.

Season Two starts with a deep dive into what makes Holderness School’s approach to education truly different.

Director of College Counseling Kelsey Berry and Academic Dean Jordan Graham unpack the school’s student-centered philosophy by exploring Alison Gopnick’s “Gardener vs. Carpenter” parenting metaphor. They explore how Holderness cultivates an environment where students grow purposefully—balancing academic challenge, community connection, and personal well-being.
Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about what it really means to support students on their journey to college and beyond.

🎧 #EducationPodcast #CollegeCounseling #StudentWellbeing #IndependentSchools #BoardingSchoolLife #GardenerVsCarpenter #HolisticEducation #HoldernessSchool #FromBullsToBeacons #AcademicLife #TeenMentalHealth #CollegePrep

In this episode of From Bulls to Beacons, Head of School John McVeigh speaks with Reverend Pete Woodward, who led Holderness from 1977 to 2001. They reflect on the school's transformation under his leadership—from campus expansion to the introduction of co-education and signature experiential programs like Artward Bound, Project Outreach, Out Back, and Capstone. Through it all, the core values of faith, service, and community have remained at the heart of Holderness. Tune in for a conversation on leadership, tradition, and the enduring spirit of the school.

"If you can own the moment between stimulus and response, you're king of the universe."

In this episode of From Bulls to Beacons, Head of School John McVeigh sits down with Bill Burke III, who recently retired after 34 years as Headmaster of St. Sebastian's in Massachusetts. Before his tenure at St. Sebastian's, Mr. Burke dedicated 12 years to Holderness as an English teacher, Director of Studies, hockey coach, and dorm head. In total, he has devoted 50 years of service to independent school education. In this highly engaging conversation, Bill speaks about the role of community, the importance of expressing gratitude, and the value of inclusion at faith-based schools.

In this episode of From Bulls to Beacons, Head of School John McVeigh sits down with former Head Phil Peck, a transformative leader whose nearly 40-year journey at Holderness helped shape the school's culture and direction. Beginning his career at Holderness in 1984, Phil brought an extraordinary background as a Dartmouth graduate, NCAA champion skier, and World Cup coach. He served as a teacher, coach, and eventually Head of School, leading through pivotal events, including 9/11, the Great Recession, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Phil reflects on his journey of resilience, strategic growth, and community-centered leadership, sharing insights on mentorship, adaptability, and the unique Holderness culture that encourages lifelong learning and collaboration. This episode offers an inspiring glimpse into the experiences and values that have made Holderness a "we school," grounded in integrity, humility, and a shared commitment to fostering future leaders.

In this episode of From Bulls to Beacons, John McVeigh catches up with Mike Henriques, a lifelong educator whose journey began at Holderness School in 1981. Mike spent two decades at his alma mater, serving in roles like Director of Out Back and Dean of Faculty, shaping programs that immersed students in experiential learning. Mike pursued advanced degrees from Bread Loaf School of English and Warren Wilson’s MFA program alongside these roles. He became a certified NOLS instructor, equipping him with tools to foster independence and leadership.

In a surprising career shift, Mike left education to serve as Copy Chief at LL Bean, gaining invaluable insights into brand identity and mission-driven leadership. His three years in the corporate world sharpened his understanding of how values align with strategy, a perspective that would profoundly shape his tenure as Head of School at Proctor Academy from 2005 to 2021.

Now retired, Mike reflects on his leadership journey from his home in a historic schoolhouse in Sandwich, NH, where he and his wife, Betsy Paine—a Holderness alumna and district court judge—pursue creative projects and personal growth.

In episode seven, Head of School John McVeigh sits down with Peter Rapelye, an educational leader with over 40 years of experience in independent schools. They explore Rapelye’s career journey, which began at Holderness, where he held multiple leadership roles, including History Department Chair, Director of Athletics, and Director of Financial Aid. Rapelye reflects on the value of mentorship, the transformative experiences he encountered at Holderness, and the lasting impact of community service.

Holderness alum and head of school at Mercersburg Academy Quentin McDowell joins John McVeigh for episode 6. In this interview, Quentin reflects on the transformative power of his postgraduate (PG) year at Holderness, which shaped his path as a student, coach, educator, and administrator. He emphasizes the importance of relationships, fostering civic engagement, and the role of global experiences in shaping student growth. McDowell shares how his year at Holderness was pivotal in opening new doors and perspectives. He offers advice for new students, educators, and those considering a boarding school experience. This conversation highlights how vulnerability, joy, and commitment to service can lay the foundation for meaningful educational impact.

In episode three, Head of School John McVeigh interviews Chris Day, a former Holderness history teacher, coach, and administrator who now is the head of Cardigan Mountain School. Chris shares his deep connection to Holderness, shaped by his 14 years of service and as a parent to two alumni.

Reflecting on the school’s unique ability to cultivate leadership, Chris discusses how Holderness instills a culture of attention to detail, community, and stewardship. The conversation explores the lasting impact of Holderness’s programs, including his development of the Senior Thesis into the year-long Capstone project, now a requirement for every senior to graduate.

Additionally, Chris reflects on the personal and professional growth he experienced at Holderness. Now at Cardigan, Chris continues to draw on his Holderness experience, emphasizing the importance of fostering resilience, responsibility, and joy in education. This episode offers a deep dive into what makes Holderness special and how its values continue to shape future leaders in education.