The Merrill Series
Created in 2006, The Merrill Series features an annual panel discussion highlighting the diverse talents and interests of Commonwealth community members. The Commonwealth School Alumni/ae Association (CWSAA) named these spirited discussions as a fitting way to honor the educational philosophy of Charles Merrill.
We invite you to watch recent Merrill Series recordings below and to check this page for upcoming events in the future.
Upcoming Events
#Storytelling for a Modern Audience
Featuring Diantha Parker '90, moderated by David Kravitz ’82
March 29, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. EDT.
The Merrill Series is back! This time we’re talking about crafting stories that hold the attention of digital readers and listeners. Diantha Parker ’90 will share her experiences from podcasts, NPR, and The New York Times. Join us for this fascinating virtual event.
Past Events
Building Community-Scale Renewable Energy
Featuring Raphaela Hsu-Flanders ’11, moderated by David Kravitz ’82
We were delighted to welcome Raphaela Hsu-Flanders ’11 as our 2022 Merrill Series speaker. She discussed her work as the Renewable Programs manager at the Bonneville Environmental Foundation, where she leads the development and implementation of community-scale renewable energy for low-income and tribal communities across the Pacific Northwest. Many thanks to our moderator David Kravitz ’82 as well!
Building Inclusive Technology
Featuring Cecily Morrison '98, moderated by David Kravitz ’82
Cecily Morrison ’98, Principal Researcher at Microsoft Research, joined us on February 27, 2021, to discuss her work in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Human-Computer Interaction designing accessible technology for people who are blind or low vision. Our sincerest thanks to Cecily and to David Kravitz ’82 for serving as our host.
A Conversation about the Courts—What's at Stake?
Featuring David Kravitz ’82 and Trustee Charles Fried P’79, ’81, GP’19, ’23
On December 3, 2020, we were delighted to welcome David Kravitz ’82 and trustee Charles Fried P’79, ’81, GP’19, ’23 as our first Uncommon Conversations speakers, as they discussed the future of the courts, inspired by Professor Fried’s recent opinion piece on the Supreme Court in The New York Times.