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Why Gunn
About
The Frederick Gunn School has always been a place for students to take risks. We want you to push yourself because you are the kind of student, the kind of person, who can achieve remarkable things. We will challenge you and will insist that you push yourself. We don’t believe in letting students default to a comfort zone. You will learn just how much you can accomplish. And you will be astonished.

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Admissions
Students at The Frederick Gunn School spend their high-school years growing up, growing wiser, and growing more confident. They form lasting friendships by supporting each other as they step outside of comfort zones alongside faculty who truly believe in them. Coming to Gunn is a choice to dig a little deeper, to get past the shiny surface of so much that surrounds us. We would love for you to become a Highlander.
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Academics
The Frederick Gunn School prepares students for college and global citizenship by integrating academic learning with the immersive experiences of boarding school life. By extending education beyond the classroom, we equip students with the leadership skills needed to thrive in an interconnected world.

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Arts
At The Frederick Gunn School, we invite our students to be creators and makers. Whether you are interested in the visual or performing arts, you will have the chance to leave your mark on the world, to challenge others to see the world in a new way, and to express your perfectly unique point of view.

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Athletics
Inspired by Frederick Gunn’s belief that athletics builds both "muscle and character," our program offers 36 teams across 16 sports. Whether you are a high performing athlete or a beginner, this is where you can master new skills, discover new passions, and contribute to the tradition of being a Highlander, in and out of competition.

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Student Life
At The Frederick Gunn School, the best moments often happen between the bustle of academics and co-curriculars. Whether it’s sharing lunch, hosting a movie night, or sledding behind Teddy House, you will find opportunities to gather, relax, and build lasting friendships across our campus. It's why students and alumni refer to Gunn as home.

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Giving
From experiential learning opportunities and faculty development, to student life activities, athletics, and financial aid, gifts of all sizes — from alumni, friends, faculty and staff, students, and families — collectively ensure the school can maintain our standards of excellence and improve where needed.

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Ogden D. Miller H'69 P'50 '54 '55

1946-1969

Ogden D. Miller H'69 P'50 '54 '55 was appointed Headmaster in January 1946, following the death of Russell Bartlett.

Born in Southington, Connecticut, he attended Lewis High School and Williston Academy.
He graduated from Yale in 1930 and received an honorary M.A. in 1938. Prior to becoming Headmaster, he worked for 15 years at Yale University, as Associate Dean of Freshmen, Assistant Secretary of the University, Chairman of the Board of Athletic Control and Director of Athletics.
He and his wife Anne raised three boys at The Gunnery, Ogden D. Miller, Jr., '50, David Miller '54, and Dwight Miller '55.
During his tenure, the school campus was nearly doubled in size through the annexation of the Bourne estate. The acquisition was part of his administration's "Second Century Campaign," which raised funds to support several significant additions: The PO (1949); a second gym (1953); the old Barnes estate and South Street water supply (1958); the construction of three “temporary” dormitories, Emerson, Butler and Bache (1964); and the Science Building (1967).
Miller increased the academic reputation of the students and prepared the school to meet the challenges of the civil rights movement.
He raised the level of athletic participation and promoted the success of Gunnery teams, which enjoyed great success during this time.
He redesigned the school crest and oversaw the school's Centennial in 1949-50. The weekend celebration was attended by 600 alumni, students, faculty, townspeople and friends as well as many headmasters from area schools, and many members of Mr. Gunn’s family, including his grandchildren.
He sought to cement the school's relationship with Washington by encouraging faculty and serving himself on many town volunteer committees, participating actively in town events, and pitching in with his students, faculty and his facilities when needed.