The Phillips Lecture on Integrity in Action was established in 2000 by Headmaster Rob Hershey, John Burress ’54, John Walker ’79, and Ed Walker ’85 to honor Allen Carleton Phillips, Jr.
Mr. Phillips was a longtime, distinguished faculty member whose devotion to character, integrity, and sacrifice is legendary at Episcopal High School. Mr. Phillips came to Episcopal in 1951 and, with the exception of a two-year stint at St. Albans School, remained at EHS until his retirement in 1994. While at Episcopal he taught English, served as dean of students for 26 years, was faculty advisor to the Honor Committee, and coached football, basketball, and baseball.
Mr. Phillips embodied the School's commitment to academic excellence, the dignity of each individual, and the enduring importance of honor. This annual award recognizes and brings to campus an individual who has led a life based on these values.
Mr. Phillips was my senior year English teacher at Episcopal High School. Through reading, analyzing, and discussing literature, Mr. Phillip's changed my life's path, and, as Robert Frost said, 'that has made all the difference.' Eventually I realized that Mr. Phillips had inspired me to invest in the raw talent and undeveloped potential of human capital, specifically, teaching children. Mr. Phillips inspired me to continue my studies, major in English literature, and teach. In addition, during his 40-year legendary career at Episcopal, he inspired all of his students, including me, to do their very best - academically, socially, and most importantly, ethically.
When I was a senior in high school, in addition to English master, Mr. Phillips served two other roles, faculty chair of the Honor Committee and dean of students. If one got in trouble, one had to meet with Mr. Phillips, and I was one of those students. I can't remember what I did, but I do remember it was one of those disciplinary events that wasn't clearly defined. My character and actions were called into question, and rightfully so. I was up to something no good, but the no good had not happened yet. Mr. Phillips knew. I think he could read my soul. He called me into his office to tell me that as humans, our character is all that we have. He pointed out that people will believe in us if they can trust us. He felt that everyone had a bank or credit line of character (he knew the finance metaphor would work best on me), but once it was spent and people lost that trust, there was little one could do to earn it back. He noted that we all make mistakes and poor choices, but true character is defined by how we behave and act after we have made a mistake. He urged me to face it honestly and straight on. I can still see that look of disappointment in his eyes. It hurt me more than any punishment or raised voice ever could have. When faced with character issues to this day, not only do I look myself in the mirror, but I think of Mr. Phillips. I try not to disappoint.
I had Allen Carlton Phillips as my English teacher in 12th grade, and that has made all the difference.
Chuck Baldecchi '89