Dear Baldwin Community,
Douglas Pennock, Chairman of the Baldwin Board of Directors and President of the Baldwin Corporation, is stepping down after more than 32 years of service to the school in order to attend to his personal affairs. Words cannot express what Douglas has meant to our community. He, like his father before him, occupies a central position in the history of our school. Frankly, without the Pennocks, there is no Baldwin as we know it today.
I can speak most intelligently about what Douglas has meant to me personally and professionally. His was the first face I saw in my preliminary Skype interview; his was the voice that introduced me to the Board. He welcomed me to Puerto Rico, led a tour of the island for my wife and me during our recruiting visit, and offered me my current position.
For nearly three years, Douglas and I have been constant partners. I know him as a thoughtful and decisive problem solver, and a gifted leader. Baldwin is his preoccupation. He bleeds burgundy and silver. Board Chairs don't normally come to campus nearly every day. They don't normally labor over every detail. They don't normally work tirelessly to support school leadership. Douglas did all of these things, and his efforts have resulted in many of the school's most important and transformational achievements. He is Baldwin's biggest fan, staunchest supporter, toughest critic, and most loyal ally. Douglas has made me a better leader, and I am profoundly thankful for his support, guidance, and friendship.
Douglas is a proud and humble man, and I expect him to resist any attempt to publicly acknowledge his good work on behalf of Baldwin these past three decades. We will celebrate his legacy nonetheless. We'll give him some time, and then we'll properly thank him for his service.
When someone of Douglas's stature retires from service, their communities are prone to worry. I can assure you that all is well, and that Baldwin will continue to flourish. We have a veteran Board who will ensure continuity. Our reputation and financial standing is excellent. Douglas is leaving us in great shape. The Board has appointed Lawrence Duffy, a former Board member and long standing member of the Corporation, as Vice President of the Corporation. Veteran Board members Sonia Latimer de Caso and Dr. Enrique Arsuaga were elected Co-Chairpersons of the Board of Directors.
So, on behalf of a grateful Baldwin School of Puerto Rico--its staff, faculty, administration, and families--thank you so very much Doug for your dedication, loyalty, service, and leadership. We look forward to seeing you around campus as husband to Trudy and proud grandfather of two Baldwin students. I look forward to spending time with my friend and mentor, and sharing in his legacy.
James Nelligan
Headmaster