This afternoon, we held a tree dedication in memory of faculty member Steve Broy, who died suddenly last winter. The tree and accompanying plaque are located on the "island" of grass just below the Middle School parking lot. The idea for the tree came directly from the members of the Class of 2011. My comments at the dedication are below.
Welcome everyone on this Sunday afternoon to this tree dedication ceremony here at Calvert School in memory of our beloved friend, colleague, and teacher Steve Broy, whose life was taken far too suddenly and far too short last winter. The turnout here is a testament to the power and influence Steve had over so many people—from all ages and all walks of life. And the fact that this event immediately precedes a Ravens young alumni event is perfect because of Steve’s affinity of sports. I am sure he is smiling down on as us and very happy that we are together and about to stay and see a game.
To be very honest, I am just getting to grips with the fact that Steve is not coming back. For months, I expected to see him in the gym, to bump into him in the hallway, or to see him in the Atrium having lunch. Although we do not have Steve with us anymore in body, we do have him in spirit, and we do have his memory and his legacy. And that legacy was of a man who valued simplicity and I say that in the most complimentary way. Steve knew what was important, and he focused on those things. First and foremost, he was a great father, husband, son, and brother. Family meant everything to him and guided his actions and words. He always bragged about his wonderful daughters and told the latest stories and showed the latest pictures. Second, Steve loved his students. He was so happy teaching at Calvert and forged genuine, meaningful relationships with his advisees, players, and students. And finally, Steve loved sports. He valued teamwork, competitiveness, effort, and physical fitness. Those three things—family, students, and sports—made Steve who he was, and I think we can all learn from that—to do a few things—a few very important things—very very well and to do them with joy, passion, and love.
