On Sunday, May 28, 2023, The Frederick Gunn School will graduate 85 students, representing 18 states and 11 countries, in the Class of 2023. This year will mark the 173rd Commencement of the school, which was founded in 1850 by Frederick Gunn, a pioneering educator, courageous abolitionist, and rugged outdoorsman, who is recognized by the American Camp Association as the founder of recreational camping in the United States.
Commencement Exercises will begin at 10 a.m. on campus. The ceremony is open to students, faculty, family members, and invited guests only. All families will have reserved seating under the Commencement tent and are asked to please check in with a staff member upon arrival to be escorted to your assigned seats. Parking is available on campus for families and invited guests, and parking attendants will be available on-site to assist visitors and direct traffic. For those who are unable to attend in person, the event will be live streamed. The school’s current Visitor Policy can be viewed here.
Head of School Peter Becker will deliver the Commencement Address and will present the school’s three top awards: The Gunn Cup, the Brinsmade Prize, and the Head of School’s Prize. Prior to the granting of diplomas by Incoming Head of School Emily Gum, Head Prefect Ashleen Hay ’23 will deliver the Head Prefect Address.
Additional prizes will be presented during the Prize Night ceremony on May 27, which also will be live streamed. The Prize Night ceremony is open to students, faculty, family members and invited guests only.
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About The Frederick Gunn School
The Frederick Gunn School, founded in 1850, is a co-ed boarding and day school for 325 students in grades 9-12 and post-graduate, located in Washington, Connecticut. Frederick Gunn was a pioneering educator, courageous abolitionist, and rugged outdoorsman. He inspired generations of students to be curious and thoughtful, to be active members of their communities, and to stand up for what they believe in. He was a transformational leader. Our students become principled, active citizens and lifelong learners who will be entrepreneurial forces for good in the world.
Media Inquiries
Please direct all media inquiries to Jennifer Clement, Associate Director of Strategic Communication and Marketing,
at 860-350-0177 or clementj@frederickgunn.org.