The Profile of a Proctor Graduate describes the traits we hope each graduate possesses as they leave Proctor and move into other communities. In order to take these characteristics with them, students must first be exposed to how they are put into action here. Today was a day driven by core values as the effort of students, faculty, and staff allowed Proctor to serve as the host to the 2nd Annual Rail Trail Rally.

Beginning months ago with the efforts of Athletic Director Gregor Makechnie ‘90 and leadership at Special Olympics New Hampshire, the groundwork was laid for Saturday’s Rail Trail Rally. More than 300 faculty and students then stepped up to help with set-up, food preparations and race details. Others served on cheer squads, ran the race, or helped clean-up. Regardless of their role in making the event a success, students had the opportunity to see a community in action supporting a cause far greater than itself.

These lessons are valuable ones. Unfortunately, too often adolescents are told the value of these lessons and do not have the opportunity to experience them first hand. Our goal at Proctor is not only to talk about the ideals of our community, but to model them daily.

Watching students run alongside Special Olympic athletes, set up tables, clean up trash, and work incredibly hard to make the event a success is a refreshing reminder that it takes an entire community to truly BE a community. We each need to remember to regularly think beyond ourselves and our immediate desires. At the same time, we need to be cognizant of the responsibility we have to use the gifts, resources, and talents afforded us to serve others.

Thank you to everyone in the Proctor community for making the 2nd Annual Rail Trail Rally a day to remember!