Without a doubt, everyone on campus knows about Mr. Allan. For just over twenty years, he has touched students’ hearts with his kindness and warm personality. Mr. Allan has not only contributed to the webb community through being a teacher, but also by being an advisor, head of WSC freshman dorms, and a football coach. Webb boarders will have a strong and steady role model who will guide them to the end of the year.
On January 31st, Dr. Smith sent out an email to student news announcing that Mr. Will Allan, who teaches in the humanities department, will become the new interim head of dorms. In the email, Dr. Smith explained how Mr. Allan has agreed to be head of dorms for the remainder of this year as well as the 2021-2022 school year. He has been a powerful yet humble role model to students for over 20 years, whether it was in the classroom or on the football field.
At the beginning of the school year, Webbies experienced heartbreak after learning about the retirement of Javier Valera, Spanish teacher, and previous head of dorms. But hearing that Mr. Allan will be taking over his duties for the next couple of years does bring a bit of joy back to students. Obviously with COVID-19 and quarantine, being head of these dorms is a daunting task. But there is no doubt in any Webbie’s mind that Mr. Allan will step up to the challenge and thrive.
“I don’t know who else would have done it. Once Señor Valera retired, it seemed inevitable that Mr. Allan was going to become the head of dorms,” said Aidan Helgason ‘23. “He seems to have been putting in a lot of work with the freshman, and his work shows. At this point, he deserves the job.”
Mr. Allan started as a student back in 1990 and graduated in 1994. He later decided to go back to Webb and teach. He was beloved by his students, which prompted him to eventually start coaching the football team, where he taught the players humility, as well as how to play football. And over 20 years later, he is still teaching and coaching with the same love and passion he has always had. He will be able to bring a unique point of view as head of dorms because he was able to experience dorm life as a student himself.
“I am happy that he has become the interim head of dorms, but I have to admit I am a little sad that I won’t be able to experience him as head of the dorm in person,” said Clifford Kwara ‘21. “During the time I knew him at Webb, he was a very warm and welcoming person. If I ever had questions, he was the first person I would talk to. I think he will do great as the head of dorms, and I am excited to see what he will do.”
Mr. Allan has contributed a lot of his time connecting with students, and it shows. He always attends Webb events, even if it is not required of him. His presence brings a sense of calm throughout the dorms, which helps the freshmen transition into the dorms. He has great ideas about how to make sure every boarding student gets the most out of their experience, and Webbies are excited to see what they are.
