Phillips Exeter Academy Campus Plan, A Framework of Opportunities

The resulting plan identifies a series of near- and long-term programmatic opportunities that emphasize environmental stewardship and the renewal and adaptive reuse of historic buildings, with limited new construction only where necessary. The variety of physical improvement opportunities support all members of the Exeter community, promoting access, inclusion, and diversity of experience, and addressing improvements to academics, student experience, residential life, faculty needs, and administrative space.

One of the top priorities that emerged from the plan is the renovation and expansion of the Academy Building, a campus icon and the heart of the academic experience. It includes full envelope, interior, and systems upgrades, along with a four-story addition that will increase the capacity of the Assembly Hall from 950 to 1,300 seats to accommodate the full student and faculty population, along with other education spaces.

The plan was developed based on engagement with over 700 members of the Exeter community in workshops, open houses, online surveys, alumni and parent events, and focus group meetings. Building on the Harkness method of learning pioneered at Exeter, the process ensured a thorough understanding of lived experiences and campus issues and built consensus around a vision for the future.