Honoring Susan Bush

by Laurence Geffin '69

For 50 years, Commonwealth School has relied on the careful and perceptive work of a cadre of editors, and Susan Bush is among the best of them. In her quiet but determined way, she has helped 30 years’ worth of Commonwealth writers shape their voices. Susan’s mastery of English syntax and sensitivity to the individual styles of each writer’s work give her special insight into the potential of each piece she edits.  From newsletter essays to headmasters’ reports to the Board, our writing is always better after being "Bushed." Susan is at her best, though, when it comes to reports about students who struggle. Those of her colleagues whose comment slips or advisor letters pound away at students’ failings without sufficient acknowledgement of the young people’s efforts are guided by Susan to temperance and encouragement. 

Celebrations of the senior class with the faculty and staff have been high points of the year since the school began, and among the most memorable were those hosted by Susan in her magnificent English garden just after final exams in June. Her skilled hand with nature mirrors the one she brings to her editing—she lets her shrubs, her flowers, and us do as we are inclined, freely wild, while she, the creative caretaker, looks over us, maintaining order and good taste.

Susan is a secret philanthropist whose generosity comes as naturally to her as breathing does to the rest of us. While it would be a thrill to see her publicly thanked and perhaps enjoying that celebrity, I am in awe of the purity of her motives.

After 50 years, thousands have by now helped shape the Commonwealth community. I am reminded of the rich variety of those contributions every time I pass the front office and see Susan at her desk. It confirms for me, as I know it does for others, that we are in the right place.

Next: Honoring Jacqelynne Curry