Rawson announces plan to retire in 2026

In a brief address to students, which was met with a long and loud standing ovation, and in a letter to the Exeter community, Rawson said it was “understandably bittersweet” that he informed the Trustees of his intentions to step down after next year.

Rawson was formally appointed the school’s 16th principal on Jan. 25, 2019, after serving in the position in an interim role. As he spoke to students Friday in Assembly Hall, he referred to his remarks that day and the deep personal significance the moment held for him.

“I spoke about how my time at Exeter as a student had transformed my life, and how it was deeply meaningful to me to have the opportunity, as principal, to help Exeter do the same for all of you,” Rawson said. “It has indeed been deeply meaningful to me to serve this school as your principal and help all of you learn, grow and thrive in all the ways that make Exeter so special.”

Rawson told the students, “I say to you all the time that you all belong here. I have felt since my days as a student, and now as your principal, that I too belong here. But what was initially intended to be a two-year assignment has become an eight-year assignment, and I feel the time is right for me and for the school to make the transition to new leadership.”

“Since his arrival in 2018, Bill has provided steady, thoughtful leadership, guiding Exeter through both challenges and progress with an unwavering dedication to our mission and values,” Trustee President Kristyn McLeod Van Ostern ’96 wrote in a letter to the community.

“Under Bill’s guidance, Exeter has thrived as a place where knowledge and goodness live together. His commitment to inclusion has strengthened our sense of belonging, while his forward-thinking approach to sustainability and campus stewardship has positioned Exeter for long-term success. His constant presence at student performances, athletic competitions, and academic events reflects his deep joy in seeing students shine — not just in the classroom, but in every aspect of their Exeter experience.”