Waterford School recently conducted its 2/026 Upper School Closing Award Ceremony, an event dedicated to honoring the achievements of the Class of 2026 and various student leaders. Associate Head of School Brandon Bennett opened the ceremony by stating that the school's mission focuses on inviting students to participate in the challenges of a demanding liberal arts experience rather than simply issuing awards.
Defining Excellence at Waterford
Bennett emphasized that the school defines excellence through elevated standards of knowledge, performance, and character, noting that the community celebrates the excellence of effort seen daily.
Class XII Dean Harmony Button addressed the graduating seniors using a sports metaphor, describing the Class of 2026 as a team that learned to find success through collective achievement. Button noted that for this class, success was defined by long-term happiness and a practice of being rather than just personal status.
Honoring Student Government Leaders
Student leadership was also recognized by Jessie Lund, Associate Dean of Students for Upper School. Lund thanked the Student Government Leaders for their work in elevating student life, specifically acknowledging representatives from Classes IX through XII, including Ruby Entwistle, Henry Murray, Raneem Alsolaiman, and Ciel Paul.
Recipients of Dean's Awards
The ceremony featured the presentation of the Waterford Dean's Award to several students for their meaningful contributions to the Upper School community. Recipients included Clara D. and Everett J. from the Class of 2029; Brendan B. and Cecily S. from the Class of 2028; Maya P. and Joaquin P. from the Class of 2027; and seniors Molly Cook and Charlie Groberg.
Induction into Cum Laude Society
Academic and departmental excellence was a central theme of the awards. The Cum Laude Society inducted several scholars, including Raneem Alsolaiman, Grant Brady, Sadie Hutchinson, and Fiona Jiang, among others.
Recognition of Departmental Prizes
Departmental prizes were awarded to students for specialized achievements:
Visual Arts: Diane Jung was recognized for her artistic exploration and commitment to the program.
Computer Science: Fiona Jiang received honors for her leadership in the Computer Club and work with neural networks.
Dance: Katelyn Cummings was honored for her dedication and various choreography roles.
English: Evie Hershkop was recognized for her deep engagement with literature and myths.
History: Abi Quinn was celebrated for her intellectual curiosity and scholarly approach.
Math: Liam Reddy received the award for his extraordinary mathematical talent and coaching of teammates.
Music: Grant Brady was recognized for his artistry as a violinist.
Athletics: Whitney Spanos was honored for her leadership as a multi-sport captain.
Science: Jerry Xie was cited for his excellence in robotics and science olympiad.
Theater: Truman Christensen was recognized for his extensive work in numerous productions.
World Languages: Danyou Tang was awarded for her interest in linguistics and cultural exploration.
Presentation of Waterford Awards
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the Junior Book Award to members of Class XI and the prestigious Waterford Awards. Kenzie Sevy and Phoenix Sheranian were named as Waterford Award recipients, recognized for their character, leadership, and positive impact on the school community.
Academic Dean Casey O'Malley also presented the Junior Book Award to students including Aaron C., Matthew D., and Blythe H., among others, for their academic performance and intellectual curiosity.
