To Phillips Academy Class of ’55
From Dave Harrison, class secretary
September 5, 2025
Never more needed than now
From the enthusiasm and thankfulness of our 70th Reunion organizers, Steve Clarkson and John Doykos, to the part two of us have played in shaping and narrating the histories of other countries, Peter Parsons and the late Richard Cowles, there was ample evidence of lives lived, thoughts worth listening to, and differences made in the latest edition of our class notes. The difference between us and generations looking up to us being one of perspective. Moved and moving when, in one instant of spontaneous reflection, we take it all in. So much to be taken in and — how is it possible? As Steve Kaye put it after he looked back and tried: “I can’t explain it. I really can’t.”
His but one of many remarkable journeys through life reflected in our class notes. Owing to many causes but one for sure is Andover. Where we were taken seriously as individuals and given a serious education. We took ourselves and our responsibilities seriously, and the result was uniquely arresting stories. Of lives lived with purpose. Not lived out and wasted but put to good use. Then and now. As role models of talent, discrimination, sensitivity, and resolve. Character combined with humanity that can’t take itself too seriously. The signature of Dave Gunn. Relatability.
Everyone a voice worth hearing and needing to be heard. Thoughtful and heartfelt: the voice of experience that’s never more needed than now. By each other. By those less experienced. By our country.
Is nothing sacred?
When you’re so moved, email your thoughts before October 3. Our draft Fall/Winter notes already feature four guys who didn’t let the grass grow underfoot, including three whose impact was personal. There’s room for more. The wealth of goodwill and hell-raising among us has hardly been tapped!
Please include your current contact info or update it at https://www.andover.edu/alumni/alumni-connect. I’ll try to update email addresses by phone or regular mail. Adding my number to your iPhone contacts will help it recognize me: (303) 746-5983 (Redondo Beach, CA). Thank you!
Our 70th reunion class photo wasn’t scrapped. It just got bumped by all the commotion over the class of ’20 to the next issue. And have you heard? GW Hall is being turned over to students! Administrators are being kicked out! Is nothing sacred? What’s to become of us!
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Steve Kaye suggested that I introduce myself, so you can blame him for what follows. Around GW Hall I was known as “Spike’s mistake.” Referring to Mr. Adriance, the admissions officer. I was let into Andover because my older brother earned his way into Exeter. A record-setting track star plus varsity football (center / linebacker) and varsity baseball (catcher). I stunk at everything except effort, so Steve Sorota took pity and tried to get me a varsity ‘A’ anyway. To put on the handsome Elander & Swanton sweater that I craved and never got. Harvard took pity too, which is how I became their mistake.
So on I went to the patchwork of accidents and mistakes that became my life story. That, like Steve Kaye, I can’t really explain. But all anyone needs to know is that it will be a pleasure to keep the spirit of our 70th Reunion alive if I can help my PA classmates connect. As your class secretary and friend.
Power to you!
Dave Harrison
(303) 746-5983
74apollo350@gmail.com