Community, Freedom, and Growth
At The Governor’s Academy, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and unified community where every student—whether they call a campus residence hall home at night or head home after their academic and afternoon program commitments are done—feels equally valued, included, and empowered.
While there are differences in the day-to-day experiences of boarding and day students, the heartbeat of Govs is the same: a shared sense of belonging and connection. As Dean of Students, I see firsthand how our intentional programs and spaces bring students together, creating an environment where all feel welcome and supported.
Shared Spaces That Inspire Connection
Our campus is designed to bring students together in meaningful ways. Spaces like the Peter Marshall French Student Center and Pescosolido Library are hubs of activity throughout the day and evening. Our student center, equipped with student lockers and single-occupancy bathrooms with showers, ensures day students have everything they need to feel at home while on campus. Whether students are grabbing a snack at the Grille or Bookstore, collaborating on a group project, or playing a game of ping-pong, this space provides comfort and convenience for all.
The Alfond Dining Hall, accessible to students all day, is more than just a spot for meals. It’s a space where students gather for group study sessions over snacks, deepening friendships while tackling academic challenges together.
Leadership Opportunities for All
At Govs, leadership knows no bounds. Whether a day student or a boarder, every student has access to the same opportunities to grow as a leader.
Our Proctor program exemplifies this commitment to leadership and mentorship. Dorm Proctors, long a vital part of our boarding community, serve as role models and guides, helping their peers navigate residential life and fostering connection in the dorms. This year, we introduced a Day Proctor program to extend that same opportunity to our day student population. Day Proctors connect new and returning day students, offering mentorship, guidance, and support to help them feel fully integrated into campus life. Whether in the dorms or among day students, our proctors are leaders who strengthen our community.
Similarly, our Future Leaders at Govs (FLAG) program invites juniors— both boarding and day—to come together for leadership training. Through FLAG, students practice vital skills like communication, decision-making, and collaboration, preparing them to lead confidently within our community and beyond.
Residential Life That Extends to All
Our residential buildings are more than just places where students sleep—they are vibrant spaces filled with programs that unify our community. From movie nights to discussions on empathy and engagement, the Residential Life Curriculum fosters connection and shared experiences that benefit every student.
Day students are always welcome in the dorms after the academic day and during weekends. Whether they’re waiting for afternoon programs to begin, sharing a meal with friends, or joining in on evening activities, this access ensures that all students, regardless of where they rest their heads at night, feel integrated into the life of the school.
A Commitment to One Govs Community
We’re constantly looking for ways to enhance the experiences of all students. Listening to student feedback is a cornerstone of our approach. With an open-door policy in the Dean of Students’ Office, we invite students to share their thoughts, ensuring their voices are heard, and their needs are met. When challenges arise, we focus on finding solutions that strengthen our community.
Ultimately, the Govs experience is defined by its people—day and boarding students alike—who come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. While where students sleep may differ, the connections they form, the lessons they learn, and the memories they make are what unite them.
At Govs, we believe that every student has a place, a purpose, and the opportunity to thrive. That’s the heart of our community, and it’s what makes Govs a home for all.
Author: Erin Davey, Dean of Students