New Memories, Full Hearts

On November 21, 2024, Marlborough’s ever graceful halls were filled with a little extra joy and warmth as students welcomed loved ones to campus for a cherished annual tradition: Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day. From the moment guests arrived on campus—some traveling from as close as down the street, and as far as Maine, New York, Canada, Beijing, Nigeria, and places in between—the day became a beautiful reflection of the love and joy shared between students and their special guests. 

The beauty of this event lies in the firsthand glimpse into the magic of Marlborough it offers to students’ guests. Grandparents and special friends step into the world of their students and understand what makes their Marlborough experience so extraordinary. Walking alongside their hosts to each of their classes, grandparents and friends witnessed the curiosity and sparks of purpose that animate the campus daily. 

The All-School Meeting (ASM) provided a deeper glimpse into their students’ life at school. Head of School Jennifer Ciccarelli gave a brief history of Marlborough’s 135-year history, and the All-School Council shared a video which captured some of the magical moments of Marlborough that occur throughout an average school day. During the ASM, students and guests were invited to share some of their most cherished memories with one another. When asked to share, one grandfather’s reflection on how this event has become some of his most treasured memories with his granddaughters resonated profoundly, prompting nods of agreement and smiles across Caswell Hall. 

During the day, guests and their hosts were invited to participate in a wide range of activities showcasing the myriad programs on campus. The activities included bookmark-making in the Shari and Edward Glazer Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, competing in Marlborough trivia, and adding their contribution to a school-wide gratitude tree; each moment offered a chance to experience the creativity, community, and excellence that define a Marlborough education. 

Beyond the activities, the day was also about the quiet moments of pride in the classroom, the laughter shared during lunch, the warm introductions to their students’ friends and their loved ones, and the tender hugs as the day came to a close. It was about giving grandparents and special friends a glimpse into why their students love Marlborough so ardently. 

Grandparents and special friends left campus with not only a greater understanding of the magic of Marlborough but also a deeper bond to the students who call it home. This tradition continues to remind us that, at its core, Marlborough is a place where excellence thrives, extraordinary connections are forged, and those who share in its experience understand what makes this community truly exceptional.