Announcing the New Headmaster

I am deeply honored by the decision of the Search Committee and the Board of Trustees, and I am humbled by the prospect of leading this great institution. I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the search process — my colleagues on the faculty and staff, alumni, parents, trustees, students, and other friends of the School. The care, attention, and commitment that have been invested in this important decision only serve to affirm the strength of our community.

 

It has been a privilege to work alongside Arnie Holtberg for the past two decades — a truly exceptional man and a great leader who has skillfully and thoughtfully guided St. Mark’s to unprecedented heights. The partnership we’ve enjoyed has been the single most important professional association of my life. From our earliest days together,?Arnie has given me every opportunity imaginable to learn, grow, and contribute to the well-being of our school.

 

Like Arnie, I love St. Mark’s and am firmly committed to our mission of helping boys become good men. I have a deep appreciation for the work of my colleagues across our campus, in the classrooms, on the playing fields, in the art and music studios, in our labs, and on the stage. The passion, commitment, and energy of our teachers make St. Mark’s?an extraordinary place for boys. We are in the business of developing human potential, helping boys become well-rounded and well-educated men who are driven by character and focused on improving the world around them. I can think of no work more gratifying or rewarding.

 

When my family and I arrived in Dallas more than 19 years ago, I never would have imagined the impact that St. Mark’s would have on our lives. In so many ways this School has become our extended family. We’ve not only watched all four of our children grow up here, but also developed close bonds and friendships throughout the St. Mark’s community.

 

Being a part of the St. Mark’s community is special, clear and simple. Our history binds us together and reminds us that we’re all part of something much greater than ourselves. It challenges us to be our best. It inspires us to give freely to one another and to this School’s mission of helping boys reach their fullest potential.

 

St. Mark’s School of Texas was established with a vision to become a beacon of excellence, and I feel an important responsibility to make sure we carry that legacy forward. Our alumni are a constant reminder of all the good work that has occurred over time. The generosity of our predecessors — the School’s founders, our teachers, trustees, parents, alumni, and friends — has provided a foundation that we all enjoy and, yes, build upon today. It will take great care, commitment, collaboration, and intentionality to ensure that St. Mark’s becomes an even better institution in the years to come. Our boys deserve it. The world needs it.

I am so thankful for the support of the entire community. Nancy and I are thrilled about our continued involvement with St. Mark’s and look forward to helping further strengthen the foundation of this great School.

Sincerely,

 

David W. Dini