Educators Gather at Belmont Hill for IBSC Annual Conference

Every year, the International Boys School Coalition (IBSC) gathers to continue its mission of  connecting educators from around the world to advance the learning experience of boys. The esteemed non-profit organization has a long history with Belmont Hill, as the initial gathering of North American boys’ school heads and educators that sparked the organization's founding occurred on the School’s Chapel lawn. Over thirty years later, Belmont Hill had the privilege of inviting members of this robust community to campus as hosts of the 2025 IBSC Annual Conference.

Unphased by the early summer heat, the conference set multiple records for IBSC with 659 educators in attendance representing over 175 schools and countries. Representatives from institutions as far away as England, India, New Zealand, Thailand, and South Africa gathered with their peers from across the United States, including schools from the surrounding area such as Roxbury Latin, St. John’s Prep, St. Sebastian’s, and Xaverian.

The conference theme, “Better Together,” highlighted the power of connection, collaboration, and community, essential components for a meaningful conference but also vital for the work IBSC schools commit to on behalf of their boys. 

Attendees heard from an incredible line up of thought-provoking keynote speakers such as Retired General Mark Milley ’76, educator and humanitarian Shabana Basij-Rasikh, biotech entrepreneur Noubar Afeyan P ’16, author and psychologist Dr. Niobe Way, mental fitness activist Gus Worland, and a panel of local higher education presidents including Dr. Alan Garber (Harvard University), Dr. Joseph Aoun (Northeastern University), and Dr. Maud Mandel (Williams College). These speakers, and others, examined topics critical to the education and development of boys, sparking discussions that continued throughout the week. 

Delegates also had the opportunity to experience Belmont Hill traditions firsthand by rowing on the Charles River, working in the woodshop studio, and exploring the Audubon surrounding campus. Each morning, attendees could be found in the Hamilton Chapel as distinguished guests such as psychologist Dr. Michael Thompson, sportswriter Jason Gay ’88, and members of the Belmont Hill Multicultural Alumni Partnership modeled the School’s frequent Chapel Talks.

Conference events stretched from Belmont Hill into famous Boston locales, culminating in a celebration at the Museum of Fine Arts. The most essential work, however, was done in classrooms each day in the over 120 workshops and presentations. Over the course of the week, educators shared their experiences and findings on developing character, belonging, and leadership in their students through thoughtful and innovative practices.

By building connections and revealing progress made on the challenges facing their own students, attendees demonstrated firsthand the meaningful impact of working together to enhance and celebrate the education of boys across the world. 

Click here to see more videos and pictures from the event.