Celebrating the Grand Opening of the Community Commons

The atmosphere was electric with anticipation as Kingswood Oxford officially unveiled its Community Commons, a transformative addition to its historic campus. Although the space has been in active use since the school year began—quickly becoming a second home for students—the official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on September 11, marking a milestone in KO’s ongoing journey to foster connection and collaboration.

An esteemed group of board trustees, donors, alumni, administrators, local politicians, Mayor Sheri Cantor, and West Hartford Chamber of Commerce executives gathered for the event. Guests toured the newly renovated space, marveling at its sweeping transformation. “Before” photos provided welcome context, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the aesthetic and functional upgrades.

Board Member and Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Mary Martin ’77, P’17, ’20 speaking on behalf of board chair Jeff Gitlin ’85 P’11, ’13, ’17—absent for joyful family reasons—reflected on the building’s journey. She underscored the symbolism of the event, noting Gitlin’s double celebration of his grandson’s birth and the rebirth of the former library dining hall into the vibrant Community Commons. Martin also offered a moment of reflection on the significance of September 11, honoring the memory of those lost 24 years ago, including KO’s own Jeffrey Bittner ‘92. Attendees paused for a moment of silence to pay their respects.

The Community Commons stands as an emblem of KO’s 116-year mission: providing students with an education rooted in integrity, leadership, and community. Martin spotlighted the collaborative spirit behind the project, thanking the Board of Trustees for their dedication—bringing the vision to life debt-free, under budget, and on time despite industry-wide challenges. She credited Head of School Tom Dillow and the entire KO team for actualizing the project from the 2019 strategic plan as part of the Seize the Day Campaign.

Centerbrook Architects played a pivotal role, with Todd Andrews ’91 serving as principal architect. Andrews spoke with pride and emotion, sharing how his time at KO initially sparked his passion for design. “Working with KO on this project was seamless—a true partnership. Every architect dreams not only that the work will be finished, but that it will truly serve the people for whom it was designed,” Andrews remarked. The Community Commons is both a physical and symbolic tribute to KO’s enduring spirit.

Head of School Tom Dillow recognized the invaluable stewardship of Martin and Meghan Ouelette P’18, ’20, presenting them with bouquets in gratitude. “It’s meaningful to me that this project was completed fully debt-free and under budget—an accomplishment in these challenging times. This speaks to our community’s perseverance and careful planning. I especially want to recognize the thoughtful, tireless efforts of Mary Martin, Meghan Oulette, and so many others who shepherded this initiative to completion. Thank you for your leadership and vision.” Dillow expressed his honor in serving as Head of School in this remarkable new space—a testament to KO’s path toward excellence and student engagement. Bouquets were then presented to Martin and Ouelette, recognizing their central role in bringing the project to fruition.

Dillow delivered an impactful speech, reflecting on the broader significance of the project. He began,  “When we first envisioned the Community Commons in our 2019 strategic plan, we imagined a flexible, welcoming environment—a place not just for study and dining, but for conversation, collaboration, and creativity.” He explained how the space was designed for the learning styles of today, which are more collaboratively driven, and elaborated on the significance of our interdisciplinary IMPACT courses.

He continued, “The journey to this day required the collective will of our community—our trustees, families, alumni, architects, and staff—each providing indispensable wisdom and support. Today, what was once a dream is now a living reality. Our students have already begun making memories here—from organizing study groups and spirited club meetings to simply relaxing with friends. Their excitement and sense of belonging confirm that we’ve delivered more than just a building; we’ve created a true home for student life.” He enumerated the various people who were instrumental in the project’s success, including Brian Woerlen at Sage Dining, who relocated to a temporary kitchen and provided hot meals, as well as the students displaced from their dining hall for a year. He also thanks the town officials who approved the project and the neighbors who tolerated trucks and construction for a year. Dillow presented flowers to Librarian Nancy Sololom, who offered insights throughout the project.

Ever the history teacher, Dillow quoted from one of his favorite historical figures, Winston Churchill, who said, “‘We shape our buildings, and thereafter they shape us.’ What he meant was that the spaces we design reflect who we are, but they also influence who we become. The Community Commons does just that. It bridges our past and our future. It honors the look and feel of our campus, while giving our students a modern, collaborative, student-centered space to learn and grow.”

He concluded, “Let us celebrate what we’ve achieved together, and let this marvelous space inspire us to deeper learning, richer connection, and lasting memories. The best days for KO are ahead, and this Community Commons will be at the heart of it all.”

Following the speeches, the attendees filed out of the building onto the lawn in front of the Commons as the board members surrounded Dillow for the official ribbon cutting. Holding an oversized pair of scissors, Dillow and the board were waiting for the countdown to slice the red satin ribbon, which marked the official opening.

The grand opening of the Community Commons marks more than just the unveiling of a building—it is a celebration of KO’s enduring mission, community, and pursuit of excellence. With space for meeting, learning, gathering, and growing, this new hub set the tone for the next era of life at Kingswood Oxford School.