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Matriculation
June 8, 2022
Kindness kills
The Merionite
Every moment counts
Caryl Shepard ’22 Editor-in-Chief
Victoria Bermudez ’22 Editor-in-Chief
As the year comes to a close, I find everything. Though it can be so easy to I’ve come a long way from the hardaround the school remained hidden by myself being asked the same question ships of my underclassmen years. When masks, we have demonstrated our resilget caught up in the loads of homework by peers, teachers, and family memI was a sophomore and had to stay up ience. After groggily waking up at 7:29 to and extracurricular activities LM offers, bers: How has your senior year been? late writing an essay or studying for a log into my first set APUSH Zoom class, I find that it is too easy to immerse oneDespite the fact that I’ve arguably precalculus test, I remember my older I’ve come to appreciate the half hour self in all of their tasks at the expense had many months to ponder this quessister would come into my room and before I drove to school, when I got of their character. At the end of the day, tion, I always struggle with coming up say, “You got this Vicky! Trust me, this dressed and sat at the kitchen table eating the goal you scored on the field or the A with an answer. It wasn’t great—that’s is as hard as it gets, just push through.” I Froot Loops. I appreciate the third floor you got on a test may bring temporary for sure, but it wasn’t the worst either. I always believed her, even though she was laps I took with my classmates between joy, but others will remember you by made and solidified great friendships and blatantly lying. Sophomore year wasn’t double sets for science classes. I apprehow you treated them more than your grew apart from others. I achieved great as hard as it gets, Junior year was the ciate the smiles and waves exchanged respective accomplishments. I remember successes and faced crippling rejections. worst … but I digress. In those moments, with friends as I passed them in the those who have graduated before me I saw the best qualities emerge in my I wanted nothing more than for it to be hallway. I appreciate the shared feelings not by their GPA, mile times, or writpeers during times of stress—like selflesover. I felt like I was holding my breath of nervousness, cramming our notes and ing ability, but how they treated others. sness and bravery—while simultanejust waiting for high school to end. But reviewing problem sets before a big As I move onto my next chapter in ously witnessing the most evil behavior when I reflect upon the past four years physics test. I appreciate all of the unlife, I hope to be able to prioritize kindin others: exclusivity, hatred, and anger. at LM, I realize now that those feelings likely friends I’ve made over the course of ness in the face of everything else when But I’ve come to realize that this of distress only enriched those unforgetmy four years. I appreciate all the times I dealing with others. I hope that the class phenomenon is not unique to senior year, table moments that I recall so fondly fell both down and up the atrium stairs. of 2022 can do the same—treating othbut emblematic of life as a whole. Life is when I hear the words “high school.” Although most of it was difficult, and ers with kindness and respect above all never easy or predictable. Everyone faces Our class, the class of 2022, is the last some of it embarrassing, the sum of each else, whether that be at college, in the adversity, some more so than others, but set of students at LM able to compare and every experience over the past four workforce, or wherever you may be. Uneveryone in some regard. And senior year the academic atmosphere in all stages years is what embodies high school. Not derclassmen, I’m not going to idealize has taught me that only through acknowlof the pandemic. Finishing our freshman a single second, no matter how stressful this: high school is rough, but being nice edging the existence of these adversities year normally, then enduring an everor disheartening, can go unrecognized as to others will make it much, much better. and challenges can we become stronger. changing virtual to hybrid to in-person we reflect and appreciate all we’ve been I hope that we, as the class of 2022, can I’ve further learned that the way in schedule, to finally having our last few through. We wouldn’t have been able to implement this kindness into our lives which one faces difficulties communimonths during our senior year return cherish those class parties and movies as we leave the halls of LM to truly live cates their true nature. You can have to “normal,” even though some faces before spring break if we hadn’t fun with almost everyone—but spent hours reviewing our notes the true nature of their character in preparation for the exams is revealed in the face of hardwe had the week prior. There ship. Do they shy away from the truly is nothing like having over problem or tackle it head on? a thousand teenagers together Do they consider how others are for seven hours a day, five days affected by the situation or put their a week, in one school building— own needs before everyone else’s? or two I guess, if you count the There are moments of senior year I’ll treasure—like late nights chem building. We may never in The Merionite room, long runs come across the close knit comduring cross country practice, and munity of LM in the same way we mastering the wheel in Ceramics. feel it now—it’s rare to be able to There are other qualities I will not see someone in the hallway and be upset to have moved on from— remember the precise moment like waking up early, and more when you scraped together a seriously, the sometimes relentless social studies presentation about competition that plagues LM. But Sir George Calvert with each the lessons I’ve learned in dealing other in seventh grade. Each day with these adversities will undenithat we pressed snooze before ably stick with me as I leave 315 double-checking the letter day East Montgomery Avenue, maybe on PowerSchool presented its more so than derivative rules, own challenges, but now we’ve chemical formulas, and anything earned a moment to distinguish pertaining to William Faulkner. Photo by Anika Xi ’23/Staff between the feelings of suffering I want to end with a reminder, or The Editors-in-Chief for The Merionite 2021-2022. From left: Caryl Shepard, Victoria and the feelings of satisfaction. a word of caution: kindness trumps
Bermudez, and Jonathan Xu.
Confronting your Goliath Jonathan Xu ’22 Editor-in-Chief Since that wistful last day of school for seniors drew to a close, I’ve noticed a certain lulling monotony has taken over my daily lifestyle. Gone are the stressful mornings where the snooze button is just out of reach, prompting me to scramble out of bed, and then realize with a startle that it’s a half hour before school starts. Gone too is the thrill and thrum of each school day, the mechanical march from class to class, and the “Which club meeting is today?” brain freeze before each lunch and the last bell. That previously restless, obsequious energy has instead been replaced with a sense of stillness, dare I say complacency, one that invites a rueful appreciation of having at last escaped the clutches of high school into freedom—or an enticing taste of it for now. In this state of limbo, one of the healthier indulgences I’ve returned to is the long-lost practice of reading books, foremost among them a novelty in modern psychology named David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell. In the text, the author recounts the fabled story of how a tiny, brave shepherd boy named David, armed with naught but his sling and stones, took on the monstrous warrior Goliath in a seemingly suicidal stand for the Israelites, pulling off a shocking victory in single combat—except it was far from shocking at all. The premise of the story is grounded in something we can all relate to: that underdogs are often the ones who triumph over their adversaries. The shadow cast by Goliath was daunting, but beneath the illusory aura of fear and failure,
David was the clear favorite for his strength of character. This made me think about how we can choose to be David against the Goliath in our own lives in school and beyond. As students and as young adults, we face the fear of Goliath on a daily basis. Maybe it’s at the grueling tryouts for the varsity team, or when the wave of stage fright hits you as you step into the audition for your first play. We have all been there, feeling small and fearing that facing Goliath will make us only smaller. This fear binds us to the defined limits of who we think we are, in turn causing us to resent the conditions that supposedly make us so constrained. Out of fear and jealousy, we judge others by their comparative privilege or conduct, without realizing we are merely reinforcing that weakness. It is precisely in these instances that instead of viewing ourselves as the longshot underdog whose inauspicious fate is sealed, we must choose to see ourselves as David, the providential hero whose discounted success will feel all the sweeter. Reflect now on the happiest and most fulfilling pinnacles of your life—were they ones automatically given to you, or instead involved overcoming hurdles, trying something new, and bouncing back from defeat? Were you on those occasions the favorite by a mile or the underdog who had to put in the extra mile? In these cases, the outcome is only worth it because of the challenges faced during the journey, and our mastering of the fear in undertak-
ing that journey is what transforms us from underdogs to indomitable favorites. Even if we should fall short in achieving our material objective, we gain something far more valuable: the moral victory of having conquered our inner Goliath, our most persistent rival. As Gladwell writes, “We are all of us not merely liable to fear, we are also prone to be afraid of being afraid, and the conquering of fear produces exhilaration”—exhilaration that is a sign not just of triumph, but of progress toward a better self. So why does this all matter? This is a moment to rejoice in the Goliaths we have overcome in arriving at this point. This also happens to be the most pivotal moment in determining whether we are capable of facing the many more Goliaths that lie ahead. Having reached a milestone as momentous as this, it is tempting to believe our greatest challenges are behind us and thus fall into the trap of thinking we need not break out of our comfort zone anymore. That rueful appreciation for crossing through the final gate of high school can either bathe us in the stillness and false security of complacency, straying far from our nemesis believing its shadow cannot reach us, or instead equip us with the stern resolve of David as we enter adulthood, higher education, the workforce, and beyond. For all the Goliaths out there waiting for you to stand up to them, and all the times you will have to manifest yourself as the unlikely underdog with destiny on the line, I say this: Don’t get comfy.
Matriculation
June 8, 2022
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The Merionite
The Merionite Official newspaper of Lower Merion High School since 1929 www.themerionite.org Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Crown 2013
Grow, don’t compete
Editors-in-Chief Julia Dubnoff ’23 Angela Ge ’23 Emmi Wu ’23 News Editors Vivian Collins ’24 Mia Hail ’23 Zoe Hassett ’23 Michelle Kelly ’23 Luke Shepard ’24 Opinions Editors Sam Abella ’24 Noah Barkan ’24 Joy Donovan ’23 Madeleine Fiks ‘23 Features Editors Ava Cohen ‘23 Crosby Johnson ‘24 Olivia Lee ’23 Lila Schwartzberg ‘24 Arts and Entertainment Editors Hadia Ahmad ‘23 Sebastian Havira ‘23 Siobhan Minerva ‘24 Gabby Tepper-Waterman ‘23 Sports Editors Shaine Davison ‘23 Sarah France ‘24 Nathan Grunfeld ‘24 Gideon Wolf ‘24 Copy Editors Ben Cromer ‘24 Jessica Dubin ‘23 Lela Miller ‘24 Senior Design Editor Ilana Zahavy ‘24 Graphics Editors Eliza Liebo ‘25 Matilda Szwartz ‘25 Julia Zorc ‘24 Senior Web Editor Katie Fang ’23 Web Editor Claire Wang ‘23 Business Manager Cam Gordon ‘23 Eli Gordon ‘23 Assistant Business Manager Anna Costantino ‘24 Photographers Aiko Palaypayon ’23 Anika Xi ’23 Social Media Dani Itkin-Ofer ‘24 Nolan Shanley ‘23 Outreach Julia Russel ‘23 Advisor Charles Henneberry The editors believe all facts presented in the newspaper to be accurate. The paper acknowledges that mistakes are possible and welcomes questions as to accuracy. Inquiries regarding accuracy should be directed to the editors of the paper. Editors can be contacted via e-mail at merionite@gmail.com or in Room 200A. To represent all viewpoints in the school community, The Merionite welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters can be sent via e-mail or dropped off outside The Merionite office. The
Ike Mittman ’22 Valedictorian A good friend of mine once told me while I was going through a stressful time to look at life as a marathon rather than a race. I am not too sure if I extracted the intended meaning, but I did take a few important lessons. Your goal in life shouldn’t be to beat everyone else; rather, you should focus on yourself and accomplish your own goals. When you run a marathon, you are thrown into a crowd with hundreds of other people. There will always be someone in that crowd that is bound to be better than you. Your only goal is to make it to the finish line faster than you did last time. By comparing yourself to everyone else you only distract yourself from the finish line ahead. Marathons are long fights of persistence, and a small loss isn’t not going to be the
end of your battle. Sometimes, you have to slow down and save your energy for a different part of your journey, but as long as you keep on going, you will be fine. Always remember that you will be fine. High school life has only gotten more competitive over the years. Every personal achievement can be broadcasted to the world through social media. With the rising competitiveness of college admissions, high school students have been pushing themselves even further—not towards achieving a personal goal, but to beating out everyone else. We should all take some time every once in a while to look around and find a way to help someone else prosper without fearing their success. In high school, its easy to find something that you are the best at, but when you enter the world beyond LM, you will see that there’s always someone better than you. You cannot let other’s success distract you from accomplishing your goals. When I was younger, I imagined myself playing piano pieces beyond my ability. I noticed quickly that I did not have the innate talent that some of my peers had. No matter how many times I felt I could never be as good as them, I kept on fighting. I may still not be as skillful as them today, but I made such substantial progress that my younger self would be in shock if he could see me now. Keep on working hard on your dreams, and do not let comparisons bring you down.
A class to remember
Eric Yang ’22 Salutatorian With my high school experience coming to a close, I’ve found myself spending more time thinking back on the past four years at LM. And boy, what an intense, insane four years it has been. For those of you in the graduating class of 2022, imagine if you could tell your freshman self that in less than a year the whole world would shut down. All of your peers would be concealed by a mask and school would no longer be conducted in classrooms, but in online meetings. I know my past self wouldn’t believe it. Yet, over the past two years, this unthinkable reality has unraveled before our eyes. The class of 2022 will be the graduating class with the most days affected by the restrictions put in place by the pandemic.
However, in reflection, I realized that these four years weren’t defined by the myriad of unprecedented difficulties thrown at us. Instead, they were defined by the overwhelming willpower of LM students, teachers, staff members, and administrators alike. Through one of the most trying times in our school’s history, this community persevered and thrived. As the last cohort of students to experience a “normal” year of high school, the class of 2022 held the responsibility of leading the student body and serving as role models like no other class before. And to that end, I would say we did a stellar job. It was the students in our cohort who led the winter track teams to nationals, won states for the tennis team, brought the swim teams to states, drove Technology Student Association to the national conference, trained the debate state competitors, and so much more. Because of the outstanding performance of the basketball team and its senior leadership, hundreds of students from all grades lined the bleachers to cheer and celebrate one of the greatest displays of school spirit in recent memory. Through our words and actions, we ensured that Mr. Hughes’ motto “Character Counts” was not only upheld, but reinforced into the very fabric of our school.
Salutations, Aces Nation! “Salutations, Aces Nation!” Those words mean a lot to me. They represent a beginning. The beginning of a speech, a morning announcement, or perhaps a Meronite article. But those words also represent how LM sees me. As I’ve heard, those words conjure the image of a “certain bow-tie wearing student body president.” This image of me—this persona —along with my morning announcements career and several crucial speeches has somehow made me one of the most known students at LM. I don’t know how it happened or any of the Leo Solga ’22 Student Body President possible long-term consequences, but what I do know is that meeting as many people as I have in the LM community has been a jolly old time. Firstly, regarding the students of LM, you guys are the best. This is an absolutely outstanding, completely sterling, and entirely excellent group of students. This year’s student body, led by the class of ’22, has been the best I’ve ever seen. We had school spirit on a level that I have never seen before
and created memories that I, for one, will never forget. Meeting the teachers of LM has been a great adventure. I think of it like this—I come to school for my fellow students, but stay for the teachers (and to avoid truancy). The teachers here have, for the most part, made school interesting. I’d like to quickly shout out Mr. Samulewitz, Ms. Fireman, Mr. Zimmerman, and all the other teachers who I’ve never had for class, but for whom I’d consider friends of mine. Before I conclude my piece, I want to highlight LM’s staff—the campus aids, custodians, secretaries, groundskeepers, nurses, librarians, tech support staff, and cafeteria crew. Meeting and becoming friends with members of the school’s staff has been one of the best decisions I’ve made here. They run this place, yet they often remain nameless. To all LM students, I highly recommend introducing yourself to the people that make your lunch, check your attendance when you come in late, protect your halls, and clean your classrooms. A huge thank you to Lis, Jared, Vern, Elane, Ms. Brown, Ms. Davis, Ms. Gillman, Janine, and Amy. I don’t regret meeting anyone at Lower Merion. It hasn’t all been sunshine and rainbows, but, at the end of the day, regret is only a choice. My time at LM is coming to an end and I’d just like to say; I have been honored beyond words to serve as your Student Council President this past year. It has been an absolute pleasure and I am so grateful to all of you. As the saying goes, old Student Council presidents never die, they simply fade away. With Love, President Leo Solga.
Goodbye LM “How are you? How’s High School now that you’re a senior?” Those were the first words that I read of my letter from my freshman self to my now senior self. The truth is, I can’t wait to embark on the newest phase of my life, but I know this new phase calls upon accountability and resilience. Because of this, I want to add one final question for myself going forward; “How do you plan to live your life despite the hand you are dealt?” Alana James ’22 The response to this quesStudent Body tion will define who I am, and Vice President who I will become. My freshman self wouldn’t have known how to answer this question and, evidently, didn’t even think to ask it. While I still don’t have the perfect response, after
completing my time at LM I can confidently say I would do a better job today at answering this question than I would have four years ago. A simple answer that comes to mind is the motto of a very dear friend of mine—character counts. I have learned time and time again that these two words hold true in nearly every aspect of life. Your resilience, your will power, and your strength to endure what life throws at you is dependent on keeping a level head, consistent empathy, and kindness through action and intention. I wish for my fellow graduates to embrace the changes that tomorrow will bring, and to learn from the mistakes that were made in the past. If you are willing to brush yourself off in the face of rejection, if you refuse to cower at the possibility of failure, you will become the person whom you wish to be—the person who receives that job offer, the person who exceeds the expectations of their counterparts, and the person who is able to accept a plethora of opportunities. Though many of us can say that our time in high school has challenged the heck out of us, I can attribute most of my growth into an adult to this school, to the people, and to the teachers. I will carry the lessons I’ve learned here throughout my life, and the relationships I’ve developed have nurtured me into the person I am today. Thank you all for everything, we made it!
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Matriculation
June 8, 2022
The Merionite
Endurance plus character...counts Dear Class of 2022: Seniors, you’ve made it! Congratulations to the Class of ’22, a group of proud seniors that has so much to celebrate, especially after enduring tremendous challenges and loss during your high school years. You’ve missed experiences and milestones because of the pandemic, and you’ve grieved the tragic loss of your beloved principal. Yet you have walked on bravely, Jim Scanlon boldly, and with optimism Principal through the past year. Your class has made its mark in the history of this excellent school district as one like no other – the one that triumphed. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” Daily, I see this lived in LM. The class and school pride that each of your possesses, and your willingness to come together as a community to support one another, through celebrations and heartaches, is un-
matched. You have truly worked to embody the motto and mantra of late Principal Sean Hughes: Character Counts. As seniors, you have spent much of your time at LM working diligently on academics, challenging yourselves to achieve at high levels. You’ve no doubt sacrificed social time and even sleep in the pursuit of excellent grades and test scores. The academic skills, accomplishments, and foundation you’ve gained are critically important, but equally so are the relationships you’ve built – with teachers, classmates, coaches, and even your school administrators. I hope you’ll continue to nurture and cherish these relationships as you move into the next phase of your life. I hope you will know and remember that Lower Merion High School will always remain a welcoming home base and a cheering section, eager to welcome you back. In addition to all the academic knowledge your teachers have spent so much time imparting over the last four years, I hope you will leave LM with the knowledge that the qualities your teachers and coaches have fostered are paramount: Endurance, Patience, Perseverance, Kindness, Respect, Responsibility, Courage, Creativity, Ingenuity, Collegiality, and Optimism. I’ve witnessed this senior class embodying all of these throughout the year in different ways and in different
moments. Each of these qualities will serve you well as you journey on through the next chapter of your life. If asked what each of us wants for our graduates, the staff and faculty of this high school will most likely point to happiness and success. A true measurement for both of these is elusive. Each of us must determine how we define them, and you may find that as you age, your definition evolves based on any number of factors and experiences. As you move into Life After LM, I challenge each of you to think about both happiness and success as not just what you’ve accomplished academically or athletically, or by how much money you’ll earn or how many diplomas you’ll hang on your wall, but rather by the way you impact those around you. Ultimately, it is the people we touch, the relationships we hold, and the impact we have on our world that brings the most enduring rewards. As you graduate you’ll be given lots of advice: Work hard. Follow your dreams. Pursue your passions. Make a difference in the world. Don’t give up. This is all excellent advice! I am confident each of you will find your own unique and wonderful path, and, along the way, I hope you’ll reflect back on your time at LM and know that you are valued, loved, and cared for, and that your success is our success. We are so proud of you. Congratulations!
The power of spontaneity
Charissa Howard Student Body Secretary
Every year of high school, I would waste money on a gorgeous Vera Bradley planner. I’d think, “this is going to be my year, the one where I stay organized,” and then would proceed to map out every hour of every day. Student council meetings, yearbook design sessions, cross-country workouts, shifts at work—all would be carefully penciled in, surrounded by allotted time segments for homework, babysitting, and eating. I’d usually make it about two days with this lifestyle, before my planner would be buried beneath folders, doomed to be forgotten about until my annual backpack cleanout. Students of LM, I am about to present to you the key to finding happiness in high school (and probably life): saving room for moments to just happen. My absolute best memories atLM weren’t the ones penciled into the planner, but were instead the ones that came about spontaneously. Grabbing Green Engine or Rita’s after school with someone from my last set. Painting eye black on my friends’ faces in the bleachers before a soccer game. Closing my laptop during a free to help make a video for the announcements. Sprinting through the rain with all of the other unfortunate back lot parkers
and laughing giddily upon reaching my car. These are the moments from high school that, years from now, I know I will remember. We are so lucky to have the plethora of resources that Lower Merion provides. Though some days I felt like the busiest person in the world, I don’t regret participating in any of the organizations that I joined here. In fact, while giving tours to incoming freshmen, I often encourage them to get on as many email lists as they can during the Fall activities fair, and to try everything that interests them. Sometimes, though, the endless lists of clubs or AP courses that one can participate in can make it seem like high school is only about bulking up your resume and looking good for colleges. It’s not. These four years are about learning what you love to do. They are about learning how to make mistakes, learning how to surround yourself with people that make you smile, and forming bonds that last a lifetime. For many of us, these are the final years that we will ever spend in our hometown. Instead of spending them hunched over your desk or your phone, I encourage you to turn towards the empty moments with arms open wide. Embrace spontaneity. It’s what makes life so special.
Celebrating resilience Dear Class of 2022, to say that your class is the definition of character, grit, and resilience would be an understatement. In your short time at LMHS, you have overcome some of the hardest obstacles that life can throw at you. First, there was the COVID-19 pandemic which we are still living in. Second, there was the tragic loss of a beloved teacher and Science Olympiad advisor, Mr. Stettner. Third, the soul of LMHS was taken away with the loss of our leader, Mr. Sean Hughes. Despite this, you have continued to rally around each other and help bring our community together as we heal and move forward. I am honored that I had a chance to work with you; you make me proud to be part of Aces Nation. You keep me laughing and young at heart. Not a day went by without at least one of you stopping by my office to say hello. I am grateful for your remarkable joy, astute insight and amazing talent. It has been a pleasure watching you find success academically, athletically, and in many other extra-curricular activities. Mr. Tyrone Ross 10th grade Principal
Allison Mellet Senior Class Sponsor
I am lucky to have many great memories and funny stories about your class; I hope one day you come back and visit so I can share them with you. I am so excited about your futures individually and collectively. The sky’s the limit for all of you. You completed high school in the midst of a global pandemic. Your life was disrupted in many ways and with multiple tragedies. Despite these challenges and because of them, you are stronger. You have overcome the unexpected, and persevered. You are stronger- individually and collectively-for that, and you will continue to be a model of ingenuity and resolution . Just so you know, I believe in each and every one of you. You are all going to achieve great things, and you all are going to change the world in some way. Character Counts is a special saying at Lower Merion. Your class is a model of character. I challenge you to continue to be the outstanding citizens that you are. Life will continue to be difficult at certain points. You have already proven that you can overcome anything.
A message of appreciation As freshmen, you were the babies of the building. You experienced the Radnor Week Pep Rally and Parents Night Out for the first time. 2020 started out smoothly with a Welcome Back Dance, second place in Radnor Week, and the “Kahoot of the Century”. Then, the world shut down. Quarantine disrupted the second semester of sophomore year in the building, but it didn’t dampen our spirit. Featured in episodes of “Aces Up”, LM stuck together to show school spirit and resilience. 2021 brought the promise of normalcy and a chance for our junior class to reconnect. We were back, masked and ever-shifting between virtual, hybrid, half day, synchronous, and asynchronous. We are officially the class of schedule-navigating experts, and we did it all in our Rugrats themed Junior class t-shirts, selling Bundt cakes and yard signs. Senior year was our year of redemption. We banded together to celebrate with traditions such as Senior Sunrise, the Welcome Back Dance, a third defeat in Maroon and White, and the Amazing Ace. Señora thoroughly enjoyed having estudiantes back in room 102, handing out dulces and chatting, en Espanol, por favor. Feeney thrived back in 204. His “funny” comments just don’t have the same impact unless he gets to see people’s reactions. Our class spirit was unparalleled as evidenced by Radnor Week, Maroon Madness, and the Dawg Pound. We had our share of heartbreak too. Losing our beloved Mr. Hughes was an unexpected tragedy. We leaned in together and found the spirit and support to push on. He would have loved to celebrate our Lip Dub this year. We have so many wonderful memories of the class of 2022. Thank you for letting us be a part of your time here at LM, for the laughter and tears, and for your spirit and enthusiasm. Thank you for unmuting yourselves and keeping your cameras on in a sea of Zoom blackness. We are hopeful that the next part of your journey won’t involve distance learning, but if it does, we are confident that you’ll be able to adapt to anything thrown your way. You have left your mark on LM, and now it’s time for you to forge your path ahead. We’ll always be here to celebrate your successes and reminisce about old times. Congratulations class of 2022!
Brian Feeney Senior Class Sponsor
Matriculation The Merionite
All graphics by Julia Zorc ’24/Staff
June 8 2022
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LM Matriculation 202
Nina Flynn Aagaard Muhammad Abdus-Salaam Lillian Abella Zoe Agiv Abdullah Al Hayani Nawaf Albarakati Cameron Allie Jinx Allison Jonathan Altman Aniket Annapragada Sulhee Antal Owen Applestein Lena Arany Samuel Aronson Ethan Aroshas Viktoria Asay Tarrie-Ray Atkinson Samuel Auerbach Morey Averill Samantha Axtell Lydia Aydemir Mara Azar Delaney Baer Stefan Bakula Nishi Bansal Henry Bard Luke Barnett Makai Beadle Joelle Beasley Sara Begelman Victoria Bermudez Kaden Blackwell Elijah Bloch Hannah Blodget Maxwell Bogan Benjamin Boland Madison Bondurant Ruben Bonilla Isabelle Bonita Amanda Booden Annice Booker Isabel Bowser Hassan Boyouk Nathan Bradway Monae Branch Carsyn Bress Ryan Broder Macy Bronte Zachary Brownstein Owen Bruno Elizabeth Bufalino Alexander Bullard Caroline Burchette Katrielle Byland Gabriel Cabrera Candice Cardenas Clara Carl Kyra Catt Nathan Cengel Leonne Chang Zev Charlson Benjamin Chestnut Marlene Chmielewski Julian Christopher Anne Cloud Emma Cloud Page Cloud Katherine Costantino John Coughlin Zacharius Craig Christopher Cruz Nicholas Curnow Mikaela Curyto Noa Cutler Luke D’Alonzo Olivia Dang Marcelo Delgado Anthony DelPezzo Mariana Di Luca DiCriscio Maiya Do Macy Donahoe James Dougherty Kelly Dougherty
Amherst College Unavailable University of Pennsylvania Gap Year, Northeastern University Unavailable Unavailable Work University of Rochester Unavailable Unavailable Unavailable University of Utah Bryn Mawr College Dartmouth College High Point University Pennsylvania State University Unavailable University of Delaware University of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania College of Technology Saint Joseph’s University University of Pittsburgh Continuing Studies at LM Unavailable Unavailable Duke University University of Florida East Stroudsburg University Unavailable Goucher College Stanford University Work Indiana University, Bloomington Rutgers University SUNY Cortland Unavailable Unavailable Unavailable Unavailable Unavailable Millersville University University of Pittsburgh Cabrini University East Stroudsburg University Unavailable University of Delaware Arizona State University George Washington University University of Vermont Unavailable University of Pittsburgh Washington University, Saint Louis Boston University The American University of Paris Unavailable Millersville University Oberlin College Syracuse University Unavailable School of Visual Arts Carleton College Continuing Studies at LM Saint Joseph’s University Unavailable Standford University Syracuse University Washington College University of Michigan Ohio University Unavailable Unavailable School of Visual Arts University of Pittsburgh Tufts University James Madison University Unavailable Unavailable Unavailable University of California, Irvine Unavailable Continuing Studies at LM University of Maryland University of Vermont Gap year
Deja Ebron Matthew Eichen Cas Ellenbogen Jamie Elman Caleb Epstein Elizabeth Esan Luis Euceda Grigory Fast Dawood Fayyaz Gabrielle Feaster Liam Feaster Olivia Feaster Khai Feldman Lara Fernandes Max Fishman Frances Fitzpatrick Leah Fox Sean Fox Alexa Fraiman Alexander Frankel Jared Fredrick Cadence Freeman Francesca Froio Benjamin Gabrieliants Evan Gaetz Martin Gallagher Phillip Gao Samantha Garrison Maya Genuardi Alan Ghosh Matthew Gillam Andre Gilmore Kyle Glover Evan Godfrey Katharine Goldstein Sofia Gonzalez-Recober Nathan Gooneratne Liam Gordon Joshua Green Nevaeh Green Cameron Greenberg Alex Greenblatt Emily Greenland Peter Gribbin Benjamin Guo Duncan Haines Logan Hall Jayde Harrison Luke Hendrickson Ryan Herrmann Andrew Hill Ryan Hillis William Hillman Alisha Holland Ava Holmberg Elle Holtermann Vincent Hong Charissa Howard Ethan Huff Zachary Huff Carina Hurok Charlie Hurwitz David Igwe Ezra Imaizumi Jamillah Jackson Katherine Jackson Alana James Krzysztof Jarocha Khalil Jeru-Ahmed Ella Johnson William Johnson Shahira Johson Johns Reid Joseph Sophia Kagan Lauren Kailis Sammy Kao Alexander Katzen Luke Keating Donyae Kellam-Mclever Lance Kim Rebekah Kleber Liam Knudsen Mia Kosich Stephen Kovach Eric Kreppel
Pennsylvania State University University of Pennsylvania Hampshire College University of Wisconsin, Madison University of Miami University of Pennsylvania Unavailable Unavailable Saint Joseph’s University Drexel University Syracuse University San Diego State University Unavailable Temple University Kenyon College Temple University Elizabethtown College University of Delaware Bryn Mawr College Pennsylvania State University Unavailable Temple University University of California, Irvine Unavailble Unavailble Saint Joseph’s University University of Pennsylvania Unavailable Emerson College Unavailable Unavailable Eastern University Continuing studies at LM University of Colorado, Boulder University of Alabama Tyler School of Art and Architecture Unavailable Unavailable Temple University Unavailable Skidmore College Wellesley College University of Pittsburgh Villanova University Continuing Studies at LM Unavailable University of Wisconsin, Madison Millersville University Ursinus Drexel University Unavailable Emory University Unavailable Copping State University Unavailable Franklin & Marshall College Unavailable University of Pennsylvania University of Delaware Unavailable Syracuse University Pennsylvania State University Unavailable Unavailable Unavailable Syracuse University Spelman College Drexel University University of Maryland University of Pennsylvania Temple University Unavailable Virginia Tech George Washington University Unavailable Unavailable Unavailable Continuing Studies at LM Unavailable Northeastern University University of California, Irvine University of Washington University of Arizona Unavailable Work
Jacob Krinsky Cecelia Kurland Sonia Laby Abiah Lane George Lauri Kendall Law William Lefebvre Talia Lehrer Aaron Levine Sean Li Paul Liang Anran Liao Katelyn Lieb Demetrius Lilley Pearl Lin Shuo Lin Maya Liston Mariah Littlejohn David Litvin Emma Liu Jack Lledo Andrew Louie Jenna Love Jacob Lowry Charlotte Mack Radhika Maheshwari Morgan Malloy LilyRuth Mamary Mackenzie Manko Connor Marsh Joshua McCormick Ryan McKenna Evelyn McKeough Kierson McLain Joshua McLymont Jack McMurtry Annabelle McQuilan Patrick Meany Ian Mernagh Jonah Messinger Matei Mihaila Jonathan Miller Ry Miller Benjamin Miller-Wilson Nicholas Milz Ike Mittman Roberta Moger Eden Molodetsky Delaney Morgan Andy Morocho-Sicha Clare Morrissey Sara Muderick Megan Murray Manami Nathuka Annika Naveen Codi Nelson Laila Newborn Eric Nie Luck Nieuwenhuijsen Alexander Nikolov Nina Nourizadeh Michael O’Gara Lucas Oberdiek Ariana Oduok Amanda Olin Grace Olley Dori Olson Giselle Ortiz Sophie Ostrich Margot Oxman Juliette Palasol Benjamin Panku Elizabeth Panku Kara Parker Matthew Patrone Charlottle Paul Jimmy Paz Cruz Anish Peddi Sianni Pendleton Thomas Penn Makhia Peoples-Johnson Jaysir Perry Benita Peters John Paria Petramfar Kylie Pettit
22: Go Forth To Serve... Vanderbilt University University of Vermont Washington University in Saint Louis Unavailable Unavailable Howard University Unavailable Johns Hopkins University Lafayette College New York University University of Rochester Unavailable Unavailable Pennsylvania State University Pennsylvania State University Pennsylvania State University Arizona State University Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg Syracuse University Northeastern University Ohio University Unavailable New York University University of Colorado, Boulder Northeastern University Unavailable Unavailable Temple University Oberlin College University of Pittsburgh Queen University of Charlotte Unavailable University of Vermont Unavailable Virginia State University Unavailable Pennsylvania State University Unavailable Drexel University University of California, Davis Unavailable Cornell University Temple University Purdue University Unavailable Unavailable Unavailable University of the Sciences University of Pittsburgh Unavailable Boston University University of Colorado, Boulder University of Pennsylvania Unavailable Massachusetts Institute of Technology University of Arizona Lincoln University Unavailable Work University of California, Santa Barbara University of Colorado, Denver Wheaton University, Illinois Swarthmore College Temple University North Carolina State University The College of New Jersey Rice University Unavailable University of Pittsburgh Curry Collge Drexel Unicerity Stony Brook University Gap year Unavailable Cornell University University of California, Santa Cruz Unavailable Continuing Studies at Lower Merion Unavailable Arizona State University Drexel University Unavailable Temple University University of Michigan West Virginia University
Hubert Phan Camilla Pheulpin William Pickering Ruth Pines Alex Pockers Charlotte Powell Samantha Probinsky-Murray Shoshana Promer Anisa Pugh Josephine Racz Riley Reece Benjamin Reed Emilia Reed Roya Reese Mark Riggio Autumn Robinson Kayla Robinson Neve Rodden Nohemy Rodriguez Simon Roling John-Nay Rollins Spencer Rosenbaum Amanda Rossello Ryan Rossman Eliza Rudy Noah Ruth Hina Sako Taylor Saunders Kit Savastani Zion Scarlett Caitlin Schafmeister Benjamin Scherluebbe Katherine Schlaak William Schlaak Simon Schmieder Bram Schwadron Gillian Schwartz Kathryn Schweickert Isaiah Scott-DeShields Keenan Scott Elisabeth Seidel Sophie Serruya Liam Shack David Shaffer Samuel Shaffer Elahna Shalish Jack Shapiro Tisya Sharma Sagi Shdaimah Daniel Shea Caryl Shepard Sophie Shin Jaiden Shippen Jaylen Shippen Makenna Sill Joanna Silverstein Rachel Simons Caroline Slattery Annabel Slogoff Skylar Smith Roxana Snavely Julia Sobel Leo Solga Janet Spingarn Jordan Spizer Daniel Stencel William Stephanou Jysiah Sterling Elizabeth Stern Jack Stockmal Nicholas Stoios Drew Stoner Maya Stricker Scott Stuart Joshua Sultanik Nicole Tan Ilan Tauber Ezra Thau Constantine Thoen Colin Thomas Philip Bryce Thompson Emma Thorne Ellen Tomlinson Kayla Tracy Lila Traynor
Temple University Temple University University of Hartford Ithaca College Tulane University Cabrini University Westchester University Yale University Howard University Unavailable Duke University University of Southern California Ursinus College Princeton University University of Pittsburgh Howard University Unavailable Unavailable Monmouth University University of Pennsylvania Unavailable Tufts University University of Florida University of Wisconsin, Madison Tulane University University of Oregon University of Pennsylvania Unavailable Hofstra University Columbus Crew Temple University Unavailable Emerson College Unavailable Middlebury College Unavailable University of Pittsburgh Georgetown University Unavailable Unavailable Lafayette College University of California, Santa Barbara Tufts University Rochester Institute of Technology Saint Joseph’s University Temple University University of Maryland Northeastern University New York University Marist College Northwestern University University of San Fransisco La Salle University Westchester University University of California, Irvine Skidmore College Pennsylvania State University University of Georgia Tulane University University of Virginia Unavailable Kenyon College University of Pennsylvania Smith College Pennsylvania State University Auburn University Unavailable Unavailable Montclair State University Continuing Studies at LM Unavailable Furman University George Mason University Pennsylvania State University Boston University Unavailable Gap year, Tufts University University of Virginia Unavailable Unavailable University of Hawaii Ithaca College McGill University Temple University University of California, Irvine
Amir Tucker Nicholas Tucker Vyomini Vakil Luke Vaughan Caroline Vo Evan Von Eck Justin Von Eck Benjamin Von Mahs Hope Wahrman Sofia Walczak Annie Wang Scott Wang Yvette Wang Evan Warden Ashtyn Webb Sherrod Webb Benjamin Weckstein Maxwell Weinstein, Daniel Wellner Esther Werbach Kenyatta West Sylvia Whang Benjamin Whitaker Sadie White Dustin Wilf Judea Williams Sydney Williams Marcie Williamson Ruth Woerdeman Ava Wolchuk Abigail Wolf Benjamin Wolf Jonathan Xu Eric Yang Shirley Yang Bowen Ying Taiyo Yubitani Eliana Zagdanski Jonathan Zhang Rachel Zhang Xinwen Zhang Caleb Zhao Jay Zheng Jessica Zhong Nasser Zolali
Continuing Studies at LM Unavailable University of Michigan University of Pennsylvania Drexel University Pennsylvania State University West Virginia University Unavailable Skidmore College Pennsylvania State University Pennsylvania State University Temple University Unavailable Unavailable Pennsylvania State University Work Drexel University unavailable Vassar College University of Pennsylvania Unavailable Barnard College Northeastern University Union College Rutgers University Rochester Institute of Technology University of Pittsburgh Hampshire College Drexel University Unavailable Bard College Davidson College University of Pennsylvania University of California, Berkeley Unavailable University of Pennsylvania Penn State University Unavailable Unavailable Northeastern University Unavailable Work University of Rochester New York University Continuing studies at LM
The matriculation plans as shown for the Class of 2022 are information volunteered to The Merionite by the members of the graduating class or publicly posted on social media. The Merionite or LM is not responsible for the accuracy of their reportings. Those students listed as “Unavailable” opted not to respond or were otherwise unable to be reached. The Merionite wishes our graduating seniors the best of luck in their future endeavors.
8
June 8, 2022
Matriculation The Merionite
“Treating every student and t e a c h e r w i t h re s p e c t a n d appreciation” - Ezra Thau
“Putting my whole heart and soul into everything I’m involved with at LM” - Janet Spingarn
“I’ve honored Mr. Hughes’ motto ‘character counts’ by living empathetically. I try my best to be selfless and consider others, and hope to create an impact on the world by making it a better place for everyone. I’ll strive to embody the values that Mr. Hughes instilled into every LM student as I move on from high school.” - Phillip Gao
“Mr. Hughes taught us that your morals and everyday intentions matter, and I try to live up to this lesson by treating everyone with dignity and respect, and by being honest.” - Macy Donahoe
“I try to leave everyone I interact with feeling at least a little bit more positive about their lives after our encounter.” - Benjamin Wolf
Character Counts “I have made an effort to check in on people even if we aren’t close.” - Lillian Abella
What does ‘Character Counts’ mean to you?
“No matter the circumstances, I have always chosen to treat those around me with the utmost kindness and respect. I have realized that you never know what someone may be going through, so even a small gesture of kindness may go a long way.” - Katharine Goldstein
“Treating others the way they want to be treated and doing the right thing when nobody is looking.” - Jaiden Shippen
“In everything I do, from music to school to athletics, I value more than just the final product. The journey towards that final product defines who you are in a much larger way, and being the best version of yourself during that journey is what builds character.” - Simon Schmieder “Having compassion for all despite fundamental differences; we all live in a weird confusing world.” - Max Fishman
“Being a supportive friend.” - Elizabeth Stern
“Being a positive role model to my teammates. Wearing the words character counts on both my basketball warmup and my lacrosse shooting shirt is something I do every game.” - Henry Bard
Graphic by Tilly Szwartz ’25/Staff
Matriculation
June 8, 2022
9
The Merionite
We’re all in this together
Nina Aagard ’22 President of Players
Phillip Gao ’22 News Editor
If you were in elementary school between 2006 and 2016, you know just how impactful the High School Musical franchise was. I mean, is there anything more iconic than Sharpay Evans singing “Fabulous” in High School Musical 2 or the cafeteria flash mob scene in High School Musical 1? While there are certainly many unrealistic aspects of High School Musical—notably a lack of graffiti in the bathrooms and profanity in the hallways, I would argue that LM encapsulates the energy of the movies. First, basketball is the lifeblood of both the East High Wildcats and the Lower Merion Aces. East High displays floor-to-ceiling posters of its players in the school hallways, while at LM we handpaint our own Dawg Pound signs and host elaborate theme nights. And East High’s two back-to-back championship titles are uncannily similar to the Aces’ back-to-back district championships wins. In addition to their athletic prowess, both LM and East High have formidable extracurriculars. While Gabriella and Taylor’s team of choice is Academic Decathlon, LM students regularly win awards in Science Olympiad, TSA, Debate, Mock Trial, and more. What most people point out as the biggest inaccuracy in High School
Musical is the amount of singing and dancing that takes place during school hours. But this year’s lip dub showed that Aces are more than ready to sing and dance to pop songs in the hallways, even sporting East High’s signature red and white colors. The lip dub was one of the traditions that brought LM together this year, and every student got to be a part of a musical display of LM’s clubs, sports, and school spirit. At the end of the day, the thing that stands out as the biggest similarity between the two high schools is revealed in the song, “Stick to the Status Quo” from the original High School Musical in which students sing about their diverse interests and deviation from traditional high school stereotypes. At LM, this could not be more true and represented. From star athletes who are also talented artists, to brilliant musicians that shine in a math classroom, to theater kids who love computer science, LM’s culture never limits students to just one “thing.” The people I have had the pleasure of spending the last four years with never reduced anyone to a single trope and always supported each other in trying brand new hobbies, which is what makes LM an outstanding community.
Tested positive for senioritis? Senioritis has hit some harder than others. I’ve seen students who have stayed dedicated to their schoolwork and clubs, even returning to LM for sports practices or club events during the Senior Project experiential phase, but I’ve also seen others who have checked out. I recall how my classmates and I used to play “over or under” when guessing if a senior would show up to computer science on time, or even at all. But in all seriousness, easing up in your senior year is a healthy, natural transition to post-high school life. Indulging in senioritis and wanting to move on from high school is reasonable. We’ve endured four years of grinding out homework late at night, stressing about college applications, doing too many clubs and sports, and not getting enough sleep. On top of all of that, we had to deal with two and a half years of the COVID-19 pandemic upending our lives. I personally had my fair share of senioritis moments. When working on school assignments and club work in these last few months, I can’t think of the countless times I thought to myself, “Why do I care anymore? I’ll be graduating soon.” There were so many points when I wanted to quit on my TSA group, skip newspaper layout, and ditch the swim team all because the work I had put in “wouldn’t matter” in the long run. However, while looking forward to the future is undeniably valid, staying present in the moment and valuing your current
Enjoy it while it lasts
Spencer Rosenbaum ’22 Opinions Editor Entering high school, I observed a plethora of my peers seemingly focus on something we would not face for another four years: post-secondary education. Namely, it seemed that while some of us dedicated ourselves to fully experiencing and appreciating LM, a more significant proportion only wished to look forward to college and envision their precise journey to it. Although college preparation is crucial, students should not solely be concentrating on it throughout their high school experience. Students and their families often neglect to accept that indulging in LM— through academics, extracurriculars, and social interactions—for the sake of amusement and personal growth, is perhaps the best way to enhance one’s preparation and profile for college. More notably, it unites our community and builds character. Over our class’ first year and a half of high school, the progressive adoption of this community-focused mentality set us up to overcome substantial obstacles and succeed not only at LM but for the rest of our lives. When LM’s most famous graduate
passed away, we responded, honoring Kobe Bryant for his impact on our community; when met with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, we responded, assiduously working through the changes in schooling, including shifts to virtual, hybrid, and in-person learning, as well as different masking stages; and when we lost our beloved principal Sean Hughes, we responded, helping the school move forward following the incident, memorializing his legacy, and demonstrating the same character and personal values that Hughes preached. Our commitment to and engagement with LM can also be seen through our triumphs. Ultimately, we have had tremendous success over the past few years, and much of it can be attributed to this shift in mentality. Our members of Technology Student Association, Science Olympiad, Mock Trial, Jazz Band, and all of our competitive clubs have proven time and time again how, with dedication, they can lead their clubs to victory, including achievements in district, regional, state, and even national competitions; our athletes’ devotion has further justified the elite status associated with the LM boys’ cross country, boys’ and girls’ soccer, girls’ volleyball, boys’ basketball, and boys’ tennis programs, as they have developed a collection of Central League, District, and State titles and runs. These accomplishments indicate what can happen when people truly indulge in a community. Even though there is value in preparing for one’s future, the character and community unification that we advance through participation enable us to persevere and excel at a level that otherwise would be unattainable. So yes, do plan for your future. But do not let it take away from keeping your present as the focal point. Whether at LM or down the line in whatever future communities we join, as more of us take the time to truly participate in them rather than leaving our futures as the center of attention, we will see immense achievement. Engage, LM. Engage, and we will see that the limit lies far beyond the sky.
opportunities are equally as important. When senioritis infected me, I thought about all of the people that I’d leave upon graduating. Think about all of the friends you’ll possibly never see again, all of the teachers that supported you at your lowest, and your coaches who hyped you up after winning a game. I also appreciated the final opportunities that I had to engage with the communities I loved. I’m so lucky to have led TSA students, swimmers, and other club members in my last year, and I’m thankful for all of the memorable experiences that they have given me. Let the fact that you have nearly finished high school sink in. I think the craziest realization for me is that I’ll never have the opportunity to walk in the LM halls as a student ever again. If you have gotten to this point without completely checking out, I applaud you, and hope you can go to college without regrets. And for all of you hardcore “let me out” seniors who wanted to leave since September, the time has finally come for us to move on. Regardless of your mindset coming into commencement, I wish that you all take some time to treasure your last few moments as a high schooler. As cliche as it might sound, tomorrow is not guaranteed. Even if it was, your time as an Ace certainly is not. I urge each and every one of you to cherish the moments you have here and now, and appreciate those you will have beyond high school.
Regret me not
Rachel Zhang ’22 Officer of Asian Culture Club Good morning LM. I’m Rachel Zhang, and let’s get started with today’s announcements. After four years of hard work, we’ve finally done it. How exciting! It’s already difficult to measure our emotions as graduation looms not too far in the distance—it’d probably be impossible to quantify the quarter of our lives that passed at Lower Merion in just a single piece of writing. So, forgive me as I try my best. I like to think about life as a series of decisions. We’ve made some good ones, maybe some bad ones, and hopefully, the good outweigh the bad. The beauty and the horror of decisionmaking both lie in the fact that you are in total control. The metaphorical ball is in your court, and it’s up to you now to not metaphorically fumble. After four years of decision making, I have to say, I feel like I fumbled a lot. I know, mistakes can be beautiful, and some things are meant to be, but come on, those are just things you say to reassure your friends that you don’t actually believe. Regret is such a real feeling. It hurts a lot and feels like it will never stop.
It’s like a fight that keeps on going, no matter how many students are staring from the upper atrium, or how many policemen are called to speak to the students sternly. Any choice is a risk for regret, and in my opinion, high school is, if anything, full of regrets. That can be regretting not auditioning for the Players musical, wishing you hadn’t missed the District Championship game, or putting too much trust in the cafeteria’s fish taco. It’s so easy to want to regret these past four years. To unwind the clock and do it over again and just hope things go better. But that’s just not possible, and it sucks. We can’t choose for life to go easier on us. However, there are other choices we can make. Regret is a choice. When you look back on your time here, choose to not regret the bad days along with the good. Choose to not regret the doors you left closed, because you opened another. When we choose to not regret, we choose to move on, and we choose to remember. To the class of 2022: As we prepare to leap out of the nest and finally test our wings in the real world, I implore you to do this as you fly high and far— approach everything as an active choice. You chose to learn, you choose to love, and you will choose to remember. Everything in your life is done with a purpose, and you’ve chosen to accomplish so many things, so be proud! Even if, as you spread your wings and leap into the big blue sky, you fall flat on your face, who cares! Look at you. You’ve already made it here, and I am so proud of you for choosing to come this far. You all amaze me. My friends, you are phenomenal. Even when all I recognize is a face and the inkling of a name, I feel distinct pride seeing your successes and I feel a fierce love from afar. There is no doubt in my mind that you will all go on to do good and great things, and I can’t wait to see it. Have a great day LM. Be kind to one another and remember that Character Counts.
10
June 8, 2022
Matriculation The Merionite
One last piece of deductive logic
Timothy Presser Mathematics
I cannot begin to express my pride and gratitude towards the class of 2022. Seeing each of you, your aspirations, your determination, and your passions grow over the years has been a sincere honor. From providing unsolicited advice about why you should all be using exponentials and logarithms to run calculations on loans and investments in Algebra 2 to making you skeptical of every percentage reported in the news in statistics, I want to thank you for all you did to make my introduction to LM a phenomenal experience. If you’ll allow me, I want to offer one last piece of advice that changed my perspective on life. Albert Einstein, the second greatest mathematician born on Pi-Day, once said, “The important thing is not to stop questioning.” Never stop asking questions, never stop challenging norms, and never stop seeking answers to the mysteries of this world and your life. Your way of thinking is like a building. If the foundation is flawed, built on a bedrock of assumptions and unchallenged notions, the building is doomed to eventually crumble. The very first principle of deductive reasoning, according to Rene Descartes, is to assume nothing, and to build up your understanding from nothing but certainties
and proven ideas. The systems, methodologies, and conventions that dictate the way the world operates have all been designed for a specific reason. Seek out these reasons. If these reasons seem logical and work towards the kind of world you want to live in, wonderful; if you find a flaw, it is your responsibility to amend it. Never assume the current status of our world is the best of all possible outcomes. If we continue to question, seek out the true reason behind everything, and avoid these assumptions, then this random sample we call life will surely be significant . The scariest and most exhilarating part of this next phase of life is that you are responsible for its outcome now; every success, failure, accomplishment, and struggle is now your burden to bear. You have the power to reject certain conventions, but only when you find sufficient evidence to do so. This is by no means an easy task, which is why you will all need each other. With more people sharing this goal comes less division and deviation, which in turn leads to an easier chance of achieving significance. In summary, thank you all for everything you have taught me and for challenging me to become a better educator and mentor. I wish you nothing but the best of luck in all of your future endeavors, no matter what they are.
Over the river and through the woods
Lawrence McAfoos Chemistry
“Character Counts” has become the core mantra of LM, seen on posters, T-shirts, and at the end of the daily announcements. I truly believe that character counts above all else. But the saying “Character Counts” risks becoming, like all mantras, a repetitious sound, devoid of meaning. So, I’d like to ponder the meaning of the phrase. Anyone who has had a class with me knows that I am undeniably a huge movie buff, so I’d like to start with the definition of character from The King’s Man—“Reputation is what people think of you. Character is what you are.” Although it is poignant, there is a trap in it. It is easy to mistake accomplishments with character. For example, there exists a difference between a student who works their tail off for a B+, and one who cheats for an A; between students who genuinely engage with the world around them, and those who pad their resumes for college applications; between a business owner who struggles to pay his workers a living wage, and one who gets rich breaking unions and avoiding taxes. Character cannot be defined by outward success. It is internal; our character constantly reveals itself in many little ways. Our actions expose our character in bright, vivid color. When someone trips in the hall, do you laugh, or help them up? When a waitress is short-tempered, do you try to make her day better, or do you grumble about it and leave a lousy tip? When a driver cuts you off, do you chase after them to cut
them off, do you give them the finger, or shake your head quietly and move on? All of these examples involve making a decision about how to act, and all of them reveal your character. Whether intentional or not, each of our actions and each of our decisions demonstrate our character. There is an easy test to help you judge your actions and decisions. Would you tell your grandmother? Your grandmother already knows that you’re smart, beautiful, talented, and wonderful, so impressing her, and making her proud is never about outward success. So, if you are throwing food in the cafeteria, would you tell Grandma? If you are cheating on your chemistry test, would you tell Grandma? If you are shoplifting gum at the Wawa or tripping the kid no one likes, or posting nasty things online about other students or your teachers, or using your “Finsta” to post stuff you don’t want your parents or future boss to know about, would you tell Grandma? And if you happen to feel your grandmother wince, you can be sure that the action is not who you want to be or who you think you are. Basing your choices and actions off of the grandmother test may not make you the richest, the most successful, or the most famous, but it will allow you to look in the mirror with confidence that you are the best you can be. To quote another movie–Batman Begins– “It’s not who you are underneath, it’s what you do that defines you.” So, go out and make your grandmother proud. Character counts.
Passing the baton
David Van Houten XC & Track Coach
Thirteen years ago, head cross country and track coach Megan Capewell asked me if I would consider being her assistant coach. I accepted the offer without hesitation. She was building a team and running program based on belonging. I witnessed these results up close. My son, Lucas, decided to go out for XC his freshman year. He was one of slowest runners on the team, but his new coach and teammates treated him as if he were one of the fastest. He quickly found where he belonged as a new high school student—a parent’s dream. Running soon turned into training and he was now the one welcoming and encouraging new team members each year. Megan and I eventually switched roles and I became head coach. Over the years, I’ve tried to build and develop what she started: a team that is open to everyone and a place where anyone can belong. Leg speed
does not matter, but a desire to improve is essential. Aerobic capacity is secondary to how much of your heart you are willing to share with your teammates. Winning races and championships are nice, but what will remain are the relationships forged while doing long runs with teammates at Valley Green and when bonding at races. I have no doubt that the LMXC tradition of belonging will continue. Neal Berman has been assistant coach for several years and is now taking over as head coach. He was a senior when I became assistant coach. When he was a student at LM, I know that he found a home on the team and has helped others do the same as a coach. As I leave coaching, I’m filled with gratitude for those who helped me find my place at LM. Seniors, I hope the same for you, and that you leave knowing what it means to belong. Go Aces—you belong!
Matriculation
June 8, 2022
11
The Merionite
Radnor Week
In November, LM kicked off a full-fledged Radnor Week to celebrate the school and help prepare the football team for Photo courtesy of the Saturday Radnor the Enchiridion game. The week was full of different themed spirit days, competitions during Lunch and Learn, and of course, the Friday pep rally and a tremendously successful homecoming dance.
“It was so cool being back to back Central League champs. Though the season ended sooner than we wanted, it was a great year with a great team!” - Amanda Rosello ’22, Captain Girls’ Soccer Wins Central League Champs Photo Courtesy of the Enchiridion
On November 15, students and other community members gathered in front of Hughes’ Photo courtesy office to share stories and memories of the Enchiridion from the late principal’s life. The memorial in front of his office showed various belongings and messages that commemorated Hughes.
Dawg Pound
Dr. Scanlon Arrives
Following the passing of Mr. Hughes, Dr. Jim Scanlon came out of retirement to serve as the Interim Principal for LM. Scanlon most recently served as the superintendent for the West Chester Area School District, after being the superintendent for both the Brandywine and Quakertown districts.
Photo courtesy of the Enchiridion
Photo courtesy of Jim Scanlon
Masks off The varying COVID-19 recommendations in the spring led LM to adopt a mask optional policy. For the first time since before the pandemic, both LM students and faculty were able to unveil their whole faces and full expressions in the halls.
Hughes’ Vigil
Photo by Anika Xi ’23/Staff
Boys’ tennis wins the state championship After an impressive undefeated season, boys’ tennis showed their dominance by repeating as the Class 3A State Champs. They defeated rival Conestoga to secure the title.
Photo courtesy of LM Aces’ Tennis
After lockdowns and restrictions prevented attendance at LM athletics, an extreme rise in student spirit was present in the 202122 school year. The founding of the student spirit organization, the Dawg Pound, grew student sections while also growing controversy around the spirit program.
Boy’s basketball wins Districts
For the first time in Coach Downer’s tenure, the boys’ basketball team went back-to-back as District champions. The team hoisted the trophy in front of a hyped crowd at the Liacouras Center.
Photo courtesy of Tom Weishaar
Godspell
Lip Dub
While still not being able to perform on the stage, Players put on their first musical since the start of the Pandemic in Blackbox: Godspell. With sold out shows and a livestream in the auditorium, Players had another successful year.
The various club leaders, athletes, and other members of LM’s student body came together to produce this year’s Lip Dub. To the tune of “Can’t Stop the Feeling”, the school united Photo courtesy behind the music of to raise money for Isabel Saler ’23 the Sean Hughes Children Trust.
Photo courtesy of the Enchiridion
Power to the students
A new era
“Hundreds of students from LM walked out “I am excited to be a part of a talented group of educators and leaders who care about of class to strike for reprostudents and want ductive rights at 12:50pm them to reach their on Wednesday May 18. aspirations. I am hopePartaking in a national strike ful that through commovement with fifty other munication, collaboraschools, LM marched to tion, and restoration, the the Lower Merion Township building where we protested Lower Merion commuand voiced our concern over nity can heal and move losing basic human rights. ” Photo courtesy of forward in inspiration Ally Treves ’25 and productive ways.” - Noa Fohrer ’23 Photo courtesy of - Mike Johnson Mike Johnson
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