This article is dedicated to a faculty member leaving this year, Mr. Lakey. He is a beloved member of our community who has worked here for nearly 22 years. Throughout these years, he taught Science, Honors Biology, Fourth-Form science, Earth Science, Flyfishing, and Woodworking, and coached the Mountain Biking and Varsity basketball teams for 20 years. He also coached wrestling for one year and Thirds lacrosse for eight. His presence was always a lively addition to the campus, and he treats all students with as much care and respect as he does his own children. 

He has led the Mountain Club Committee in offering students endless weekend opportunities to have fun in nature and go on adventures. For example, white-water rafting, biking at Thunder Mountain, campouts, the Mountain Coaster and ziplining trips were all made possible by the hard work of Mr. Lakey. Around campus, he started many fascinating projects, such as building his own house and constructing various mountain biking trails. He said his best memory at Eaglebrook was when his own dorm, Halsted, won the tug-of-war.

In my memory, he has always been a father figure who interacts with students with both toughness and care. He is someone who holds many useful qualities and experiences, a faculty member who will always make you enjoy your time out in nature with him.

Finally, one piece of advice that he would give to future students is “Fail Fast.” Don’t let a bad moment turn into a bad day, a bad week, or a bad year. Rectify the situation as best you can and move on. When you get a chance, thank Mr. Lakey for his contributions to Eaglebrook during his time here and give him your best wishes for his future endeavors.