The Arrow Fall 2021

President’s Paragraph Following of the text of Dr. Groves’ Convocation Address: August 30, 2021 Good morning and welcome to Oak Hill Academy’s 143 rd school year. I have one question for you, the students of OHA: “What do you want?” Do you want to be surrounded by adults who won’t let you settle for being less than you should be? I hope so, because that’s what happens here. Do you want to grow and reach new levels of success, academically, athletically, socially? I hope so, because that’s what happens here. Do you want to build a circle of friends and classmates and teammates you will know and love for the rest of your life? If so, that’s good, because that’s what happens here at Oak Hill Academy. I commend you all for choosing to come to Mouth of Wilson, Virginia, to live and go to school. With this choice, you have set yourselves apart from your peers all over the world—those who choose to settle for less, who may take the easier path. Here at Oak Hill Academy, we all know that hard work, dedication, and sacrifice are the keys to great success. Collectively, I challenge us all to rise to the occasion befitting this moment, starting right here, right now. You, students, you are the lifeblood of our school. Know that you are joining a legacy of alumni stretching for generations. This is my 23 rd year at Oak Hill Academy; and I am 58 years old; so I understand from your perspective that folks like Rev. Turnmire,

Coach Smith, me … and perhaps a few others in this room—we may present to you as antiques. But I want you to think about this fact: Oak Hill Academy was here for 85 years before I was even born. You should take comfort in such an awesome legacy, take pride in it. There is a reason OHA is so successful and has been so for so long. So, I encourage you—trust us … especially when you hit a bump in the road or encounter difficulty. No, we are not perfect, but come rough times or high water, we shall be right here walking alongside you. We believe in you and we believe in our school. Lastly, let us make no mistake: God is here with us each step of the way, calling upon me to reaffirm in word and deed that you, the students of Oak Hill Academy … you are Children of God, Loved by God, and Created in God’s Image. The historic academy bell sits atop the tower in this chapel. It chimes only three times per year. Once to honor alumni who have died; once for each of our graduates on graduation eve (May 13, 2022), and today, for Convocation, the official start of the school year. OHA Alumnus, Mr. Chris Hill (‘94) will toll the academy bell, signaling the start of Oak Hill Academy’s 143 rd year. Welcome!

Follow Dr. Groves on Twitter @DrGrovesOHA.