Chris Ludbrook, Dean of the Class of 2025, Writes to His Students

Chris Ludbrook, Dean of the Class of 2025, was supposed to address his students at Senior Night. The evening was unfortunately canceled after severe weather impacted St. Louis. Here is what Dean Ludbrook wanted to say.

How fortunate I am.

Four years ago, you were snot-nosed toddlers. Well, at least it seemed that way. You know it’s true…when the Class of 2028 first walked through the door, you said “we were never that small,” or ”why do they look so young,” or “why do they act like that?” But I have had the privilege of watching you grow into the incredibly impressive young adults in front of me tonight. It would be hard for me to count the number of times I had to remind you, “Freshmen, quit acting like freshmen.” Senior year was a lifetime away for you. But you didn’t sit still. You chose to learn and grow, and four years later, here we are. No longer having to be reminded to stop acting like freshmen, but instead you have to be reminded about much more important things like, “Seniors, give me your phone.” It’s not too soon to joke about phones, is it?

We have had quite the four years. So many of you (and your parents) have asked, “Are you going to miss us?” Without a doubt, the answer is “yes.” Who doesn’t like being greeted with “Hi, Luddy” every single morning, including the occasional “you’re late” thrown in because, well, I was late. Or pretending to enjoy my witty banter as an excuse to check your socials in my office. The collective amount of time we spent in the office, whether voluntary or involuntary, is staggering. We’ve written papers, finished countless Derivitas to a satisfactory 80%, conducted last-minute interviews, and, my personal favorite, spent countless hours reflecting on the value of being on time for class. We’ve examined the ebb and flow of adolescent relationships and weighed the pros and cons of college options. You’ve tolerated my increasing love of Spanglish (and my 298-day Duolingo streak), listened to me waffle on about my kids at home, laughed at jokes that weren’t really funny, and politely not judged me for that jersey hanging in my office.

Here’s the kicker. Most of you probably don’t realize what an impact you have had on me over the past four years. My wife has gotten sick of hearing me tell stories about your accomplishments and disappointments. My kids think it’s weird that you seemingly enjoy our conversations. One in particular often reminds me, “They only laugh at your jokes because they feel sorry for you.” I brag on you whenever I get the chance. I have exploded with pride for your successes and, when you’re not around, shed more than a few tears for your losses and setbacks. Just like each of you, some days are better than others, but those morning greetings, your friendly, “How you doing, Luddy?”, your laughs, your smiles. They have turned my day around more times than I can keep track of.

It has been a journey, hasn’t it? You didn’t walk through these doors for the first time like this. Slow and steady. The growth, day to day, is seemingly imperceptible. And to be honest, sometimes the day-to-day change is not always in the positive direction. But that growth over the weeks, the months, and the years of high school has the amazing ability to sneak up on you. If you look back at your freshman self, it’s more than a little bit amazing how far we have come. It was not easy. That’s one of the value-addeds of your time at MICDS. Knowingly or unknowingly, you’ve learned how to “handle hard better.”

With that, I’m going to leave you with my only bit of advice tonight. Do not, whatever you do, do not peak in high school. You still have a long way to go, and there are many great adventures to be had. I know you will do amazing things. Things you may not even dream of today. That’s the really great part of being in your position…you have no idea what the future holds, but I’m sure that, whatever it is, it will be great.

Parents, families, and friends, thank you for entrusting your most valuable treasure with us. It has been a journey not void of nicks and scrapes, but I have always appreciated your support and partnership in our shared goal of helping these seniors reach their goals.

Advisors, thank you. You are the ones who have encouraged, supported, guided, and redirected the Class of 2025 on a daily basis. You have been the front line of care for these seniors. You are the reason they are here today.

And seniors, thank you. Each and every one of you. You have made the last four years something incredible.

How fortunate I am.