12/02/2025
-Mayor Woodfin Brings Warmth to a Gloomy Day at Phillips Academy
Excerpt from an Article written and photographed for by
arrived at Phillips Academy on a gloomy Wednesday morning. The school was hosting a parent–student luncheon. Among the students excited to share a meal with their parents was one student in particular- Mayor Woodfin’s own son was in line for a special surprise.
Despite the undesirable weather, Mayor Woodfin’s smile and presence brightened the atmosphere of the large Phillips Academy auditorium. Staff members greeted the mayor warmly. As he entered, he made eye contact with everyone he saw, extending a firm handshake to those nearby. To those too far away to greet physically, he offered a generous wave and an intentional smile that made them feel seen.
Guided through a side entrance to avoid drawing too much attention, Woodfin visited several classrooms, beginning with Ms. Traweek’s first-grade class. The students were quiet, the room decorated with shapes, colors, and a string of yellow lights. On the board was a writing prompt: “I Am Thankful For.” A few students approached the Mayor, receiving hugs and high-fives. After interacting with each child, he picked up a pencil and paper, sat at a small desk beside three students, and began to write. Curious smiles and awkward giggles filled the room as the tall Mayor squeezed into their small space. Soon, those shy smiles softened into genuine excitement as his warm demeanor relaxed them. Before leaving, he gave the class more waves and high-fives.
