Former Principal Bill Rawson

Bill Rawson ’71; ’65, ’70 (Hon.); P’08 was appointed Exeter’s 16th principal in January 2019 after six months of leadership as the Academy’s interim principal. Rawson’s return to Exeter followed a 32-year career at the international law firm of Latham & Watkins in Washington, D.C. He volunteered in nearly every capacity at the Academy during that time, from leading class reunions to serving as trustee from 2004-16.

While taking time away from Stanford Law School, Rawson served as an Admissions officer at PEA, where he lived on campus, advised students and coached lacrosse. “I then took a 40-year leave of absence,” he quipped to students during a special assembly announcing his appointment.

Rawson announced his retirement in 2025. He concluded his tenure June 30, 2026 and was succeeded by Jenny Elliott.