Photography by Trevor Brown. www.trevorbrown.com
To view a gallery of photos in this book, please visit http://goo.gl/MgP8V or email Trevor at trevor@trevorbrownphotography.com
The Colorado Academy Class of 2013 is the first class to graduate from the new Upper School Building, which was opened January 7, 2013. This class of 80 students includes a Daniels Scholar, an opthalmic researcher, a Women in Technology award winner, a Tlaxcalteca dancer, three National Merit Finalists, seven Commended Scholars, several recruited college athletes, members of the All-State Choir, editors of CA’s award-winning student publications, portfolio artists, engineering enthusiasts, film makers, photographers, poets, and 23 students who have been part of the CA community since Kindergarten or Pre-K.
Each of these students is devoted to causes and communities beyond CA, whether helping homeless youth or the families of cancer patients, or providing birth kits to pregnant women in Third World countries.
Late this summer, these students will depart for destinations from Seattle, Washington to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as all 80 of them enter four-year college programs.
Said one CA student, “You’ll be a part of lots of things and places throughout your life, but only a few places will always be a part of you.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2013.
Andrew S. Allan
Chris Bittman
John S. Burstein ’89
Andrew L. Chaikovsky
Laurence J. Chang
Stephanie G. Comfort
Peter Culshaw
Mike Davis, ex-officio Marc L. Ducnuigeen
John C. Fenley
Gail N. Fritzinger
Olga J. Garcia
David M. Jones ’95
James A. Kidder
Margaret M. King
Gary B. Lutz
Sharon A. Maffei
Brooke Bansbach Maloy ’90
Heather Kemper Miller
Terrence P. Murphy
Liz Buckingham Oertel ’93 ex-officio
Sara Resnick
Bryan M. Ritz
Robert Sadler
Celia Sheneman
Maribeth Younger, ex-officio
ENTRÉE:
Home-Style Chicken Tenders Macaroni & Cheese
Carrots & Celery Sticks or Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta
Buttered or with Marinara Sauce
Carrots & Celery Sticks
Chocolate Pudding with Non-Dairy Whipped Topping Catering
Thursday, June 6, 2013 • 9:30 a.m.
Prelude Music - Performed by the Boulder Brass Processional (Audience Stands)
“Pomp and Circumstance,” Sir Edward Elgar Performed by the Boulder brass Welcome
Michael Davis, Ph.D., Head of School
“O Light, Awaken,” Mark Patterson
Colorado Academy Men’s Chorus, Women’s Chorus, Chamber Choir, Senior Instrumental Ensemble
Board Chair’s Remarks
John C. Fenley
Principal’s Remarks
Jonathan Vogels, Ph.D.
“Hold On,” Mark Sirett Colorado Academy Chamber Choir
Class of 2013 Elected Commencement Speakers Evan Liu & Maeve Moynihan
Presentation of Diplomas
Michael Davis, Ph.D., Head of School Recessional (Audience Stands)
Performed by the Boulder Brass
Brunch for all attending Commencement will be served in the Campus Center
Senior Memory Boards on display in the Campus Center Dining Hall.
Restrooms are located in the SW corner of the Carolyn Smith Center
Bailey Rose Abernathy ................................. 6
William Alexander Baird .............................. 6
Regan Nicole Beall ......................................... 7
Hayley Noble Bittman .................................. 7
Ethan Ross Black ............................................. 8
Jason Roarke Blatt.......................................... 8
Cole Alan Bortz................................................ 9
Margaret Hannah Bost................................. 9
Marcos Jacinto Bottenbley ......................10
Eva Ellen Bray .................................................10
Margo Ilyse Brown .......................................11
Wilson Holland Burchenal ........................11
Maya Esperanza Carter ..............................12
Katherine Secrest Chaikovsky ................12
Alison Lindsay Clarke..................................13
Alicia Nicole Danielsen ..............................13 Anna Taylor Dennis .....................................14
Ryan Patton Dumais ...................................14
Clay Winton Edwards..................................15
Kathryn Grace Eliot......................................15
Tucker Carlson Ellsworth ..........................16
Courtney McKnight Ergen .......................16 Sara Ann Shaban Esfahani .......................17
Ulysses Estrada ..............................................17
Nicholas Andrew Fahrenkrog .................18
Gustavo Flores Sanchez ............................18
Stanley Frederick Fox .................................19
Katherine Bailey Fritzinger .......................19
Aylin Lisa Gann ..............................................20
Michelle Danielle Gershovich .................20
Jared Daniel Gilliam ....................................21
Anne Caroline Gilmore ..............................21
Samuel Alexander Givray .........................22
Emma Suzanne Grueskin .........................22
Tess Bronwyn Hamilton ............................23
Alexandra Lillian Hutt.................................23
Ingrid Hill Ingebretsen ...............................24
Kathryn Rogers Jacaruso ..........................24
Jasmine Eugenie Jans ................................25
Sarah Miller Johnson ..................................25
Charles James Kelly .....................................26
Amanda Taylor King ....................................26
Megan Elizabeth King ................................27
Mark Maximillian Lies .................................27
Evan Ming Jun Liu........................................28
Lauren Bailey Luke.......................................28
Kate Hannah Magid ....................................29
Sarah Wynne Magid ....................................29
Donald Lee Marjerison II ...........................30
Eric Tatum Mault ...........................................30
Anjali Nalin Mehta .......................................31
Rebecka Leah Mintz....................................31 Jared Troy Moskowitz .................................32
Trent Jacob Moskowitz ..............................32
Maeve Lernan Moynihan..........................33
Caroline Helene Nichols ............................33
Griffin James O’Brien ..................................34
Jessica Jackalyn Pardos .............................34
David Ian Peterson ......................................35
Dylan Joseph Price ......................................35
Taylor Lauren Rabb .....................................36
Robert Alexander Ramos..........................36
Jonathan Michael Reisch ..........................37
Jesús Cristopher Reyes Rodriguez ........37
Erik Lee Rivera................................................38
Rachel Anne Rockford................................38
Emma Blair Rosenblum .............................39
Ryan Jackson Sachar...................................39
Ariana Melis Savci ........................................40
Anna Rose Schwartz ...................................40
Darby Maryline Shockley..........................41
Lucas Terry Sims............................................41
Peter Rowland Sisk ......................................42
Hannah Grace Skadow ..............................42
Nicholas Paul Stevens ................................43
Tyler Chase Jeffry Strauss IV ....................43
Zachariah Dakota Patrick Turner ...........44
Elsa Saskia van Hall ......................................44
Gianna Marie Vecchiarelli .........................45
Tia Sabrina Yang ...........................................45
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. I have absolutely loved my time in choir at Colorado Academy. I can’t imagine my time here without the amazing memories I have from all of the choir concerts and rehearsals with peers from all grade levels. I made so many friends in different grades thanks to working toward a common goal in choir.
SENIOR SERVICE: I volunteered with another student for the Blue Shoe Run. We set up a silent auction that raised more than $10,000 for prostate cancer awareness.
CA TRADITION: I love the Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program. My Kindergarten buddy always put a smile on my face, and I think it is so cool that CA fosters relationships between the oldest students and the youngest.
CA MEMORY: My favorite memory at CA is the first day of senior year standing outside on the bleachers welcoming the freshmen. I felt really close with my fellow seniors that day, and I’ll cherish that memory forever.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Division I Gymnastics.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with other students, we designed plans to complete the running path that exists on the perimeter of campus.
CA TRADITION: The “Brotherhood.” It is a lacrosse tradition to help make the lacrosse team feel more like family. The team becomes so close with each other throughout each season, and CA lacrosse has and will always be a special part of my life.
CA MEMORY: Not being able to remember beating Regis on our home field in lacrosse because I got hit in the head. It is one of the biggest wins I can remember...
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Colorado College, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Psychology and Business major, and Division III Lacrosse player.
AT CA SINCE: Third Grade. Some of my most meaningful activities include running Cross Country, and participating in yearbook, and photography.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked to create a partnership between a local homeless shelter and a local bakery whereby the bakery would donate unsold baked goods to the shelter at least once a week.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Giant Relay Day, because it is a time when the whole school comes together, and there is no separation by grade or division. Furthermore, it is fun to see the Giant Relay and watch the continuing competition from year to year.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas to study Business.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. Some of the most meaningful activities I’ve participated in at CA are the specialty groups in choir. I’ve learned so much from Mrs. Jordan, and I’ve made incredible memories during the rehearsals!
SENIOR SERVICE: For my service-learning project, I’m working with the local Salvation Army and YMCA to host multiple canned food drives.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is when the Seniors get paired with their Kindergarten buddies. I absolutely adore my buddy and I love spending time with her.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado.
AT CA SINCE: Tenth Grade. Some of the activities I’ve most enjoyed include Ultimate Frisbee, Photography, Theatre, Colorado Academy Kazoo Ensemble (C.A.K.E.), and Mock Trial.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with two other CA students on a project to teach underprivileged children the importance of nutrition and hygiene.
CA TRADITION: Senior Kidnap Day
CA MEMORY: Crawling out of the trap door fully “zombied-out” in Zombie Prom.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: The University of Texas at Austin, Texas, Plan 2 Honors Program.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I have always enjoyed my experiences in the theater department. From “The Complete History Of America: Abridged” to “CAskits,” every show was a great experience that I will look back upon fondly.
SENIOR SERVICE: Several classmates and I are working to extend a portion of the running path around campus as well as to devise a strategy for future extensions.
CA TRADITION: Senior Kidnap Day has always been a great time. There’s nothing quite like sitting in class and suddenly hearing a screaming wave of seniors running down the hall to bail you out of class and throw candy at you.
CA MEMORY: One thing that I will never forget is winning a state championship in soccer with my three fellow senior teammates in our final year together.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Hendrix College, Conway, Arkansas, will play Division III Lacrosse.
AT CA SINCE: Seventh Grade. Some of my most meaningful high school activities have been taking part in photography, soccer, baseball, basketball, Community Council, and the Colorado Academy Kazoo Ensemble (C.A.K.E.).
SENIOR SERVICE: For my service-learning project, I helped organize and host a Grassroots Soccer Tournament at CA. The Grassroots organization uses soccer to educate and mobilize communities against the spread of HIV.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is most definitely advisory. Not only did I forge strong friendships with eight other peers, but our advisor, Mrs. Todd, also taught us many invaluable ‘80s pop-culture references. It really is an underrated decade.
CA MEMORY: The stars aligned one day when discussing current events in my freshman history class. I got to recite the “Loch Ness” monologue from Napoleon Dynamite in its entirety. Opportunities like that don’t present themselves too often.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont.
AT CA SINCE: Kindergarten. Some of my most meaningful activities at CA were writing letters every week with Amnesty International, being a member of the Philanthropy Board, and helping Griz (Dr. Rich Griswold) out in the training room.
SENIOR SERVICE: Created new crafts that are being used in the Discovery Zone of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. The activities are designed to inspire children’s creativity while challenging them to approach art and science in a new way.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Senior/ Kindergarten Buddies. I’ve looked forward to having a Kindergarten buddy ever since I had a Senior buddy as a kindergartener, and my buddy has been so much fun. It’s really brought my CA experience full circle.
CA MEMORY: I am very grateful for all of the relationships I’ve been able to form with my peers and teachers at Colorado Academy. When I look back on my 13 years here, it’s the people that stand out; they are what has made CA a second home and what makes it so hard to say goodbye.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Swarthmore College, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. Some of the most meaningful extra-curricular activities in which I have taken part are running cross-country and track, and participating in the playwriting club.
SENIOR SERVICE: Another student and I teamed up to create a video for the Horizons at Colorado Academy program. The purpose of the video is to promote Horizons, and to inform people of the things that this program does on a regular basis.
CA TRADITION: Giant Relay Day
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. My most meaningful activities at CA were studio art and photography. I also enjoyed tennis, cross-country, Salsa Club, and AfricAid.
SENIOR SERVICE: For my senior service-learning project, I made a short documentary video about the destructive effects of the coal and LNG industry on the marine world around the Great Barrier Reef.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Kindergarten/Senior Buddies. The Kindergarteners are all so cute and fun to spend time with.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is going Telemark skiing in the San Juan Mountains for interim freshman year. It was one of the most difficult and rewarding experiences of my life.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, California.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I participated in dance as an independent sport all four years, and I loved bringing that to school by participating in the World Dance Club. I also loved being a part of Students H.O.P.E and Operation Smile.
SENIOR SERVICE: For my service-learning project, I teamed up with two of my peers and Horizons in order to create a CA Horizons team to participate in the Colfax Marathon. The purpose of this project was to create a team of CA faculty and students in order to raise awareness about Horizons in the CA community.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Senior/ Kindergarten Buddy Program. I like this tradition because it is a lot of fun, and it brings together different age groups to show what a strong community CA is. I love that I am able to say “hi” to my Kindergartener and all of her friends when I walk across campus!
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was advisory feasts with the amazing group in Mr. Blanas’ advisory.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. I enjoyed playing tennis for three years and also really enjoyed being part of the American Computer Science League my senior year.
SENIOR SERVICE: Along with other students, we are working with Horizons to create a weeklong Parkour camp for Horizons students during the summer.
CA TRADITION: I have always loved Senior Kidnap day. The combination of taking a break from school and spending all day with your friends is great.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, California to study Computer Science.
AT CA SINCE: Third Grade. I enjoyed starting a community service organization called Students Helping Students. This organization gets students at schools with an abundance of resources to reach out to schools and students who are less fortunate.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with a classmate, I created a computer model to measure the effectiveness of enrichment programs, like Horizons at Colorado Academy, to prevent at-risk students from dropping out of high school.
CA TRADITION: Kindergarten Buddies! Every time I’m with my buddy, I it brings back memories of my time in CA’s Lower School. Seeing another child begin her journey at CA really helped me get closure on ending mine.
CA MEMORY: Giant Relay Day. Bringing PreKindergarteners through Seniors, Faculty, and Alumni together annually is really representative of the unique cross-generational community at CA.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, International Relations (Global Business) Major, Music Industry Minor.
AT CA SINCE: Fifth Grade. Upper School activities that were the most meaningful include Portfolio Studio Art, Girls Golf, Students H.O.P.E., and The Horizons Program at Colorado Academy
SENIOR SERVICE: For my service-learning project, I helped to coordinate a charity marathon for Horizons, an enrichment program for low-income students.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Giant Relay Day. It is the perfect end to the school year because it brings the entire school together to spend some time outside and enjoy the games. I consider it the real start of summer, and ever since I came to CA, I have loved to spend this last school day with my friends while signing yearbooks. It always closes the school year on a good note!
REMEMBER ME: I would most like to be remembered for my love of learning and my peppy smile.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee to study Elementary Education and Human and Organizational Development.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. Being on the women’s soccer team was my most meaningful experience at CA. Having such close bonds with a group of girls like that, striving to reach a common goal, helped me better my soccer skills and even my life. I wouldn’t be the same without my team.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with another student, we created a food drive for the Evergreen Christian Outreach Project that offers goods and services to local families in need.
CA TRADITION: Getting to spend a day like Ferris Bueller is a dream, so I’d have to say Senior Kidnap Day is my favorite tradition. Getting a day off from school definitely bonded our class.
CA MEMORY: I will never forget being in the middle of a pile of screaming girls after winning the State Field Hockey Championship. To see all of our hard work and dedication come together was such an amazing experience.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, Pre-Med major, and Division III soccer player.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. The cross-country team (otherwise known as the goose flock) has been a real highlight of my time at Colorado Academy. All the long runs, water fights, pre-race inspirational speeches, and friendships have made me smile for the past four years.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with another student to create an exercise pamphlet to help people reduce stress. It was an incredibly empowering and meaningful experience for which I wouldn’t trade the world.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition would have to be the days that there are ginger snaps in the cafeteria. They are superior cookies in every way, and their gooey deliciousness has never ceased to make my day.
CA MEMORY: My friendships here have been so deep and meaningful, and the faculty and staff have taught me so much about the world. Everyone at CA has inspired me with their commitment to the community and their sincere zest for life. I will miss you all so dearly.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Colorado College, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. Singing in choir has been a great experience. I have really enjoyed meeting lots of people whom I would not have gotten to know otherwise.
SENIOR SERVICE: I designed and taught a series of self-defense seminars at a rehabilitation center for homeless youths.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program. My buddy is the absolute cutest.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is any day in Mr. Mills’s Advisory. Thank you all so much for the love, support, and, of course, tortilla chips.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Middlebury College in Middlebury, Vermont to study Public Health.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. Some of my most meaningful high school activities at CA include being Golf Captain, Co-President of the AfricAid Club and participating in Choir.
SENIOR SERVICE: I focused on educating my peers about the importance and urgency of current issues in the medical field.
CA TRADITION: The dances were always an excellent way to socialize and make great memories.
REMEMBER ME: I would like to be remembered simply for my sense of humor, sociability, and style that I brought to the CA community.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas, studying Business and Pre-Med.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. Working in the Theater has been my favorite part of my experience at Colorado Academy. I’ve lived in the theatre every trimester since freshman year, and that experience has blossomed into a serious love for acting, improvisational theater, playwriting, and theater culture. It has become a big part of who I am, and it is what I want to pursue.
SENIOR SERVICE: Another student and I worked with Escuela de Guadalupe to provide students with access to technology by facilitating the donation of used computers to the school.
CA TRADITION: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program has become my favorite tradition. I love seeing my buddy before assemblies or around campus. It’s awesome to play around with him and his friends.
REMEMBER ME: It would be an honor to be remembered for my contribution to the theater department at CA. My picture is all over the walls there, and every time I walk into the building, I can hear the echoes of shows I’ve been in.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Colorado College, Colorado Springs, Colorado to study theatre.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. One of the most meaningful things I have been involved with is the Horizons Program at Colorado Academy, an educational enrichment program for low-income Denver Public Schools students.
SENIOR SERVICE: I conducted a donation drive for Freedom Service Dogs of America.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Kindergarten buddies. It has been so fun to spend time with the Kindergarteners, bring them to assemblies and get to know them over the year.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas.
AT CA SINCE: Seventh Grade. The men’s tennis team certainly one of the highlights of my entire career. Furthermore, the theater program is another huge focus point of my career; I’ve done 13 shows in my five years in CA, for which I regret nothing.
SENIOR SERVICE: I am helping develop second graders’ reading ability by writing a play and participating in “Reader’s Theater.” The second graders each get a role, and after about a week or two of practice, they will perform a radio show of their play to the class.
CA TRADITION: Senior Kidnap Day.
CA MEMORY: Being Bottom the Weaver in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Bottom is my dream role in terms of a comedic actor, and I would like to believe I did him justice. It was the biggest role I’ve had to tackle, and a great developing experience to become the actor I am now.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Redlands, Redlands, California to study English and Education.
AT CA SINCE: Kindergarten. Some of my most meaningful high school activities were playing field hockey, lacrosse, basketball, and swimming. Those activities taught me so many life lessons.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with another student to create a partnership with Craig Hospital to be able to use the new CA Innovation Lab as a place to create custom products for brain and spinal cord injury patients at Craig, and ease the patients’ transition from the hospital to home.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition is Senior buddies for both Kindergarten and freshmen. It is such a fun way to meet upper classmen on the first day of school.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is when we won the State Championship for Field Hockey and Boys Soccer in the same season. To be a part of those victories was amazing. I will never forget holding the trophy with my team and seeing the whole school running to meet us in celebration.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
AT CA SINCE: Eleventh Grade. Tennis season is my favorite season. It’s great to see a select group of girls every day after school and to have their constant support.
SENIOR SERVICE: I took a group of family friends to a nursing home in December. We painted the patients’ nails with festive colors for the holidays.
CA TRADITION: I love Giant Relay Day. It reminds me of my elementary school’s annual Field Day, except now I am 7 years older and 10 times more competitive.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, Washington to study Biology and Pre-Med.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. One of my most meaningful high school activities was being a Faces of Diversity Officer. This year, we had the privilege of organizing Diversity Day. Despite the craziness behind organizing it, I was amazed at how well received it was.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked at Harrington Elementary to teach students about the differences between heritage and culture.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Kindergarten/Senior Buddies Program. The program reinforces the sense of community that is present at CA. Spending time with my buddy always made my day a lot better.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was when Mr. Threlkeld’s advisory created a board with memorable quotes. Every single one of those quotes was a story about a time we all bonded, and laughed together.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Occidental College, Los Angeles, California.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I really enjoyed taking part in the American Computer Science League. Competing in Philadelphia in Group Programming was amazing.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with other students, we created an official website for the Rocky Mountain Rowing Club.
CA TRADITION: Coffee Haus. I enjoyed coming up with cool ways to combine Computer Science with Arts, particularly using a Supercollider to make music.
CA MEMORY: One of my fondest memories at CA was when Evan and I ran for Student Council; the moment when Anamanaguchi music was queued and we ran up on stage was just amazing.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia to study Electrical Engineering.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. One of the most meaningful activities in high school was being part of Ms. Todd’s Advisory.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with other students, we talked to fifth graders at Harrington Elementary about their culture, and their heritage and the difference between the two.
CA TRADITION: Senior Kidnap Day. REMEMBER ME: for my performance of the Tlaxcalteca Dance in the Senior Showcase.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington to study Engineering.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. Some of the most meaningful activities in which I participated in at CA include lacrosse, soccer, and the Art Portfolio program.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked another student to study the reasons behind the high dropout rate in our public schools, and how to prevent students from dropping out of school. We developed a computer program that uses data from DPS middle schools to try to predict which kids are likely to drop out and why.
CA TRADITION: Homecoming, because the whole school is outside cheering for our sports teams and enjoying the barbecue and the annual car show.
CA MEMORY: Hanging out on the quad and making our own Frisbee golf courses around campus.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.
AT CA SINCE: Third Grade. Some of my most meaningful high school experiences at Colorado Academy have been the Swim Team, AfricAid, working on the CA yearbook, and the photography Portfolio Program.
SENIOR SERVICE: I photographed auction items for Baby Haven, an intensive, in-patient treatment program for babies and for mothers with drug addictions. The photographs helped with the Haven’s annual fundraiser. After photographing the auction items, I uploaded photos to the Baby Haven website so they were more accessible.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Giant Relay Day! Whether I was pinning the tail on the donkey in lower school, getting dunked in the dunk tanks in middle school, or out on the field for color wars in high school (black team for life!!) this day always brought new adventures and was something to look forward to every year.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I am honored to have been a part of CA’s Playwriting Club. It helped me become a better writer and gave me the opportunity to work with incredibly talented actors and directors. I am proud of my progress in the club and also of all of the amazing plays that my peers wrote.
SENIOR SERVICE: I helped support the Children’s Museum of Denver with one of its exhibits, “The Assembly Plant.” This exhibit relies on donations from the community to create activities that help develop motor skills, creative thinking, and critical thinking.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition at CA is the Kindergarten Buddies. I felt that it really brought the CA experience to full circle and made me wish that I came to this school earlier, while I was still in Pre-K.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colorado to study English with Secondary Teaching Emphasis.
Michelle Danielle GershovichAT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I loved playing volleyball. I had never played before, and it was fantastic learning a new sport and feeling accomplished about it at the end of the season.
SENIOR SERVICE: We created a project with our Kindergarten buddies to make blankets for sick or recovering animals at Chatfield Veterinary.
CA TRADITION: I loved homecoming the best; it was just a way to get everyone together and dance the night away!
REMEMBER ME: I would like to be remembered for just being quirky and even weird so people remember my obsession with llamas/alpacas and silly little antics.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Colorado, Denver to study Business.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. I most enjoyed playing Baseball, singing in Fratelli, and playing the ukulele.
SENIOR SERVICE: I hosted a sports clinic so that underprivileged students got baseball equipment and the skills to further their baseball interests.
CA TRADITION: Senior Kidnap Day because it is a special experience that the whole school looks forward to in the spring.
REMEMBER ME: I hope to be remembered as being a top baseball pitcher who achieved excellence on the field and in the classroom, as well as someone who played the ukulele for people who loved to hear me play.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to study Engineering.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. At CA, I loved being a part of the cross-country team, and having a Portfolio Art Show.
SENIOR SERVICE: With two other students, I established a system for bakeries to donate their food that they cannot sell the next day to a homeless shelter in the Denver area.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Senior/ Kindergarten Buddies. I love that CA helps to create friendships across all grades, and it is always fun to see our buddies around campus.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was when the girls’ Cross-Country team made it to state in 2011. It was the first time we had ever made it, and we were all so proud of our accomplishments as a team.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: The University of Richmond, Richmond, Virginia.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. Some of the things I most enjoyed taking part in at CA were sports, including three years of lacrosse, as well as basketball.
SENIOR SERVICE: I arranged for the donation of old computer equipment from CA to go to Denver TechForAll; a non-profit foundation that recycles used computer equipment for use in the community.
CA TRADITION: Senior Kidnap Day.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Cornell University, Ithaca, New York to study Economics and Computer Science.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I dedicated most of my extra-curricular time to choir and theater. Some of my favorite memories from high school are choir concerts, All-State Choir, and the musicals.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with other students, we performed our own versions of fairy tales to underprivileged kids at a health fair at Swedish Hospital to try and promote healthy habits.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition is Senior Kidnap Day--it is so fun to take a break from school and come together as a class. It was a very memorable day!
REMEMBER ME: I love the community of Colorado Academy, and I hope that people think of me as someone who really cared about my fellow students and was passionate about everything I did.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, New York.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. My most meaningful CA club by far was Amnesty International. It was amazing to be able to sit down with a pen and paper at lunch and know that I was helping to make a global difference for human rights. Also, being able to be a part of the Visual Arts Department was fantastic.
SENIOR SERVICE: For my service-learning project, I helped create and curate an art show for high school students across the metro area in the Museum of Contemporary Art to allow high school students a unique opportunity to show their work publicly.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Senior Kidnap Day. It was so much fun to be shocked and excited by all of the seniors running though the halls to announce the unexpected time off from school.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is having the opportunity to stand up in front of my peers and teachers in Knowles Lecture Hall to recite T. S. Eliot’s “The Waste Land” from memory. It was a proud achievement for me, and it was a perfect demonstration of my love for literature.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut to study English Literature and Photography.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. One of my favorite activities in high school has been co-leading World Dance Club. I have learned a lot and enjoyed putting a smile on people’s faces on Friday afternoons!
SENIOR SERVICE: I translated the synopsis of the Nutcracker into Spanish, so that the International Youth Ballet will better be able to share their message with students when they do outreach performances in schools where many kids are more fluent in Spanish.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the teacher’s Holiday Skit. It never fails to be completely hilarious, and it’s so much fun to see our teachers let loose and be silly.
CA MEMORY: I will always love thinking back on the moments that we had just sitting in advisory, talking, laughing, and watching Modern Family!
IMMEDIATE PLANS: The Juilliard School, New York City, New York, Dance Division to study dance.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. My most meaningful program at CA was Mock Trial. I also really enjoyed activities like Operation Smile, the Portfolio Art Program, Field Hockey, and Cross-Country. I benefited greatly from all of these programs.
SENIOR SERVICE: My senior service project was to work with the Rocky Mountain Puppy Rescue.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Senior/ Kindergarten Buddy Program. It’s so special for the oldest students at CA to be able to interact with and connect to the youngest CA students.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was the AllSchool Art Show in 2012 right before the demolition of the old high school building. Because of the impending destruction, the art students got to paint the walls. That kind of freedom doesn’t come very often. Almost the entire CA community came to the show that evening. It was a really cool time when you could see the entire CA community bonding, and it was a really great show.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Occidental College, Los Angeles, California.
AT CA SINCE: Tenth Grade. Some of the most meaningful activities I took part in at CA were Mock Trial, CrossCountry, Outdoor Trips including hut trips and climbing trips, Lacrosse, and the Art Portfolio Program (painting).
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with another student, we created a Healthy Lifestyle pamphlet for the families of patients at homes including Brent’s Place and Ronald McDonald House.
CA TRADITION: I like the new tradition of not stepping on the CA Crest in the front of new Upper School building. It gives me an excuse to practice my long jump in the middle of the high school!
CA MEMORY: I love the CA Hut Trips. On these ski trips, I learned about backcountry skiing and avalanche safety, but I also had some of the best conversations and laughs with my friends. Being with people in a hut for a few days with good food and a guitar is one of the best ways to learn.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Colorado College, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
AT CA SINCE: First Grade. Choir and advisory were my most meaningful high school activities. Advisory in particular brought me much closer to a group of 9 amazing people and a teacher I might never have gotten the opportunity to know.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with another student I volunteered at TUCC (The Urology Center of Colorado) to help the staff prepare over 1,000 souvenir bags for runners and organized the silent auction for the Blue Shoe Run.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition would have to be the Cinnamon Bread that we made every Friday.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is probably being on only the second varsity volleyball team in CA history to make it to the state volleyball tournament; and then get second in the state! Being a part of that amazing team was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had and was a defining moment in my CA career.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington to study Computer Science and Music.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. My favorite activity in high school has been choir. Ever since middle school, choir with Mrs. Jordan has been a fun part of the day.
SENIOR SERVICE: I am working with two other students to help provide much-needed supplies to the Rocky Mountain Puppy Rescue.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition is Advisory. I’ve had a great time with my fellow members of the Hills advisory talking about life.
CA MEMORY: Some of my favorite memories are from specialty choirs and being in musicals. Something about being at school past 8 p.m. regularly brings people together like nothing else. I felt so honored when the Seniors of 2011 gave me the “I think a mermaid is tailgating me” award at the end of Urinetown.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts.
AT CA SINCE: Kindergarten. In a normal day I loved to discuss issues of diversity in Faces of Diversity or work on an original play with Curious Playwrights in the morning, take a music lesson or two, dance my cares away with World Dance Club during lunch, attempt to be athletic in the afternoon, and finish out the day in the evening singing with Chanteurs or Fratelli or working on the spring Musical.
SENIOR SERVICE: I volunteered with Mile High Squash, a program that works with underserved students in Denver Public Schools to prepare them academically while learning to play squash.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Interim. The relationships you build on these trips are invaluable, as well. I have met some of my best friends doing things like mountain biking and kayaking on Interim.
CA MEMORY: Eating dinner in Mrs. Jordan’s office before specialty choir rehearsals. It was such a great time to talk about things happening in our lives, and “Mama J” gives the best advice I have ever received.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts to study Engineering Psychology and Urban Development.
AT CA SINCE: Second Grade. It was very meaningful to have lettered for Varsity Soccer all four years of high school.
SENIOR SERVICE: My sister and I held a supply drive for Hugs for Heroes. All the supplies we collected will be sent to our military troops.
CA TRADITION: I love the Faculty Holiday Skit. It is so much fun to see our teachers’ hidden talents, and it’s hilarious to watch them at their finest. It is nice to see them as fun-loving people and helps break any barriers between teachers and students.
CA MEMORY: Making it as a 3A Women’s Varsity Soccer Finalist my junior year as the #8 seed with my soccer soul sisters. I could not think of a better way to end each year at CA than with such a great group of girls.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Chapman University, Orange, California to pursue Biological Studies.
AT CA SINCE: Second Grade. I enjoyed taking part in soccer, Environmental Club and Choir.
SENIOR SERVICE: I organized a supply drive in my neighborhood to collect items for Hugs for Heroes. The items were then sent to the foundation and distributed to troops overseas.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition has been the Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program. I have absolutely loved having a Kindergarten buddy this year. It has been a great way to relieve some of the stress from senior year and make a new best friend.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas to study Business.
AT CA SINCE: Seventh Grade. I have enjoyed being part of Ultimate Frisbee, Upper School Musicals, Extracurricular Choirs, and Operation Smile.
SENIOR SERVICE: My service-learning project was to aid my church’s community service website by creating links and pages to help younger kids who want to involve themselves within and outside of the parish.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Giant Relay Day. Having participated since seventh grade, the camaraderie, the adrenaline, and the excitement of racing others is just plain fun.
CA MEMORY: One of my favorite CA memories is my Senior Kidnap Day my junior year; going to a Rockies game to sit and eat Dippin’ Dots on a warm day was the best kind of feeling.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. I enjoyed taking part in the Colorado Academy Youth Philanthropy Program Board, as well as Rock Climbing and Tennis.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with other students, we built a new website for a local rowing club.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Used Book Fair. The time and effort that goes into organizing this event is truly admirable. It is simply a good cause, and I have greatly appreciated every year it has run.
CA MEMORY: Biking to school.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. Theater and vocal performance have been some of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had at CA. Through these activities, I’ve been able to branch out so much, experience so many new things, learn a lot about myself, and make so many lasting friendships.
SENIOR SERVICE: I helped to plan events with local artists so that area teens could experience the Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown Denver. It was part of a year-long internship at the museum, where I was able to plan, host, and emcee the events.
CA TRADITION: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy tradition has been a huge favorite for me at CA.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is the Senegal trip that I went on after my sophomore year, because I was able to experience the most complex and interesting culture, meet the most wonderful people, and connect with so many CA kids that I never knew before.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I’ve loved being part of the basketball and volleyball programs and getting in touch with my artistic side through Studio Art.
SENIOR SERVICE: I used an existing registry of defibrillators to identify neighborhoods at high risk for sudden cardiac arrests and that had comparatively few automated external defibrillators. With a grant from the American Red Cross, I strategically placed 26 AEDs throughout communities in Denver with the hope of reducing this health disparity.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is, without a doubt, Interim, because the program has enhanced my love of the outdoors.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is spending time with my amazing advisory, downing containers of Nutella® and getting to know some remarkable people.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island to study Public Health or Chemistry.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. Among my most meaningful activities in high school were my participation in the CA Swim Team and in a variety of service-oriented student clubs.
SENIOR SERVICE: My service learning project is a n extension of a program I have volunteered for called “Shopping Matters,” which teaches low-income families how to shop and eat healthy on a budget.
I have extended the program to children and families who are a part of the Horizons Program at Colorado Academy Program.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Interim, because it has allowed me to enjoy my love of nature while forming meaningful friendships in a setting away from campus.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is winning Swim League Championships during my junior year.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Carleton College, Northfield, Minnesota.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with other students to extend a portion of the running path around campus, as well as to devise a strategy for future extensions.
CA TRADITION: I’ve always loved Interim; it’s a chance for us to get outdoors and have experiences we otherwise wouldn’t have.
CA MEMORY: I’ll always remember hanging out and playing music on the Outdoor Hut Trip this year.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colorado to study Philosophy.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. One of the most meaningful high school activities in which I took part was the Upper School Advisory program.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with my classmates, we are bringing a Parkour class this summer to the students in the Horizons Program at Colorado Academy.
CA TRADITION: Giant Relay Day is my favorite because of all the smiles and friendly competition it brings. Interim is a good time, too.
CA MEMORY: My favorite memories are those of all the people I’ve met along the way and grown to know and enjoy.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Colorado State University, Ft. Collins, Colorado.
AT CA SINCE: Second Grade. Being a president of World Dance club was one of the most invigorating and memorable things that I was a part of. Being involved in the choir program at CA also created long-lasting friendships!
SENIOR SERVICE: My project is to promote awareness of the need for sanitary birth kits for expectant mothers in rural areas around the world. I am acting as an advocate for an organization (AYZH) that sends birth kits for $2.00 apiece directly to these amazing women.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition was getting the opportunity to be a Senior Buddy for a freshman this year. I enjoyed being able to help make my buddy’s transition into high school smoother.
CA MEMORY: Arriving on campus every year for the first day of school and getting that warm fuzzy feeling you get when you know you are “home.”
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Union College, Schenectady, New York to study Pre-Med or Science and Society.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had during high school is being part of my advisory group.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with another student to make blankets with our Kindergarten buddies to give to an animal shelter in need.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Senior/ Kindergarten Buddy Program. I enjoyed going to the Kindergarten classrooms to make cookies, read stories, and have fun with our buddies.
CA MEMORY: My favorite memory from CA is Interim. It was always fun to go on trips that pushed me mentally and physically, while being able to do it with my friends. Interim allowed me to get to know people in other grades better, and experience the outdoors in places I would have never gone otherwise.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas to study Kinesiology/ Sports Medicine and play Division I Softball.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. In Upper School, I have enjoyed taking part in Photography, the American Computer Science League (ACSL), and playing lacrosse.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked to tutor at-risk children at Knapp Elementary School and designed a manual to help CA students continue to tutor there in the future.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition is the All-School Assembly at the beginning of the year when the Head of School recognizes the seniors. I’ve been watching this tradition since I was four years old, and for me to finally stand up in front of the whole school was an amazing experience.
CA MEMORY: Last year, at the faculty holiday skit, Dr. Davis came to the center of the stage and started singing a Taylor Swift song. At that moment, everyone got up and started dancing with each other. I had never felt more a part of a community than I did there.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. Some of my most meaningful high school activities were photography, lacrosse and Students H.O.P.E. By participating in these activities, I discovered some of my passions in life.
SENIOR SERVICE: My senior service-learning project was to help create a running path that encompasses CA’s campus. I felt that this would benefit the CA community because people would have a set trail to follow when going for a run.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Portfolio Art and Photography shows.
REMEMBER ME: I will most likely be remembered for being easy-going and always practicing my Chinese characters.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Miami, Miami, Florida.
AT CA SINCE: First Grade. My favorite activities included Ultimate Frisbee, the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA), and my involvement with Operation Smile.
SENIOR SERVICE: When I went to China last year, we did a series of healthcare presentations for patients and families. For my service project, I made a series of healthcare handouts for students to give to patients after these presentations.
CA TRADITION: The Lower School Halloween parade and making cinnamon bread in Lower School are two of my favorite CA traditions.
CA MEMORY: It’s almost impossible for me to pick a favorite memory from my 12 years at CA. CA has shaped a big part of my life. I’m so grateful for all of the experiences I’ve had here, the teachers who have taught me, the friends I’ve made, and my family for supporting me the whole way through.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts to study the Humanities.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. Some of my most meaningful high school activities included soccer and field hockey; I played both of them from freshman through senior year. Both teams made it to the state finals at least once, and our field hockey team won the State Championship in 2012.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with other students to establish a delivery route between a bakery and a homeless shelter. We arranged for the bakery to donate its old pastries to the shelter.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Upper School Interim trips. I loved being able to go backpacking and hiking with my classmates for a week every year.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is when our field hockey team won the State Championship in 2012. We beat Palmer Ridge for our first state title since 1997. The game lasted three hours with CA finally winning in a shoot out.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Trinity University, San Antonio, Texas.
AT CA SINCE: Kindergarten. I enjoyed taking part in Varsity Soccer, Mock Trial, Specialty Choirs, AfricAid, Horizons, Students H.O.P.E. and Disciplinary Council.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with another student, we created a promotional video for Horizons, an organization with which I have been involved for five years.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Senior/ Kindergarten Buddies. I ran into my senior buddy, Danny Dodson, from when I was a Kindergartener this past year, and we immediately recognized each other after twelve years. The impact it has on both Kindergarteners and Seniors is what makes it my favorite tradition.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was going undefeated and beating Kent Denver in the State Soccer Finals this year. After three years of losing to the same team in the playoffs, it was an incredible way to end my CA soccer career with such a great group of guys.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina to study Finance.
AT CA SINCE: First Grade. Advisory is the most meaningful activity that I have been involved in at CA.
SENIOR SERVICE: For my senior service-learning project I worked hand-in-hand with my dance studio’s charity show for The Children’s Hospital called Hearts for Hearts.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition is the faculty skit before winter break. It is so much fun to see my teachers act silly and lighthearted in front of us; the entire high school never stops laughing. It is something I looked forward to every year!
CA MEMORY: My favorite memory is when the Chanteurs choir was taking pictures for the year book and decided to switch clothes; the girls put on tuxedos, and the boys put on dresses just in time for a visitor to walk in to the music building and see us.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, Colorado.
AT CA SINCE: Kindergarten. Being on the Men’s Varsity Tennis Team and going to state all 4 years, serving as President of Students H.O.P.E., the Community Leadership Team, and C-Club (spirit club) where I loved cheering on the other CA sports teams.
SENIOR SERVICE: I organized the use and delivery of multiple golf carts to the “Shake, Rattle and Stroll” walk to support Parkinson’s patients and raise awareness.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition is the first day of school. It was fun as a freshman to be greeted with so much energy and friendliness to the Upper School, and it was even more fun as a senior where I got to see the freshmen’s faces as they felt the same great feeling that I did when I was in their shoes.
REMEMBER ME: I would like to be remembered for just being Ian: always welcoming, making you laugh till it hurt, being compassionate and wanting to make CA a better place than it already is.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Boston College, Boston, Massachusetts to study Pre-Med.
AT CA SINCE: Second Grade. I enjoyed playing lacrosse and taking part in the CA Circus program.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with the Colorado Academy community through the circus program and taught safe circus skills.
CA TRADITION: The soccer team’s “Brotherhood.”
CA MEMORY: My favorite memory from my time at CA is the Centennial Circus.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Whitman College, Walla Walla, Washington.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. I enjoyed taking part in Tennis, Students H.O.P.E., Field Hockey, Operation Smile and Women’s Chorus, Chamber Choir and Sorella.
SENIOR SERVICE: working with another student, we organized a team for the Colfax Marathon in the name of Horizons.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition at CA has always been the Homecoming Assembly. It is a great display of the school spirit here. Watching our senior class put on its skit this year was amazing, especially watching it alongside my Kindergarten buddy (whom I love and adore as well)!
CA MEMORY: Senior Kidnap Day this year. Watching Ferris Bueller’s Day Off was perfect for the day. Lime was delicious and really fun, and the hypnotist was great. I was so excited to take part in something I have always loved as an underclassman.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Oklahoma Honors College, Norman, Oklahoma to study Sports Management and Advertising.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. I enjoyed being part of Community Leadership Team, American Computer Science League, and the Ultimate Frisbee Team.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with another CA student to help tutor Horizons children and developed a plan to continue tutoring in the future.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Interim; leaving to go on an adventure for a week with your friends is just crazy fun.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is being with all my friends in the senior space every day.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Washington, Seattle, Washington to study Computer Science.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I enjoyed playing tennis and taking part in the Students H.O.P.E. event.
SENIOR SERVICE: Along with other students, we have been working on the construction on an improved running path around the CA perimeter.
CA TRADITION: The Thanksgiving lunch on Grandparents’ Day.
CA MEMORY: Senior Kidnap Day.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of San Diego, San Diego, California.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I never would have imagined participating in technical theater, but the diverse arts program at Colorado Academy allowed me to do so. I also joined the club Faces of Diversity.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with other students, I went to a local elementary school and taught a seminar on culture and heritage while also developing it into an interactive session with Tlaxcalteca dancing.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition has to be the student-driven assemblies. The CA community is filled with many talented individuals. Seeing students’ hard work and dedication pay off with their performances was breathtaking.
REMEMBER ME: I would like to be remembered for my genuineness. I always stand up for what I believe in, even though others may not agree with me.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Columbia University, New York City, New York, to study Political Science and Economics
AT CA SINCE: Eleventh grade. I have enjoyed playing basketball and lacrosse.
SENIOR SERVICE: I began a mentoring group called I Am My Brother’s Keeper at Shorter Community AME Church.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Community Leadership Team retreat. It gave me the opportunity to really connect with my fellow classmates and, ultimately, connect with myself.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory is when Upper School history teacher Mr. Blanas played one of my songs in class, and he started the lesson based on the lyrical content of the song.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania to study Psychology or Neuroscience.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. Being part of Studio Art, and more specifically, the Portfolio Program my senior year, has been a remarkably meaningful experience. I grew not only as an artist, but also as a person, and I learned so much from the talented and passionate peers around me.
SENIOR SERVICE: In an effort to teach CA students about Design Thinking and service learning and to get Craig Hospital’s spinal cord and brain injury patients back out into the Denver community, another student and I laid the foundation for a partnership between CA Innovations students and Craig patients.
CA TRADITION: Pairing Seniors with Kindergarteners in a buddy program is my favorite CA tradition. Spending time with my Kindergarten buddy has put my thirteen years of school into perspective and has shown me how far I’ve come.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Tulane University School of Architecture, New Orleans, Louisiana to study Architecture.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. My most meaningful high school activity was my Photography Show as part of the CA Portfolio Program.
SENIOR SERVICE: For my service-learning project, I worked with the Denver Ballet Guild to put together the fundraiser “Divas for Dance.” I was also able to donate my time and perform at the fundraiser as well.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Senior/ Kindergarten Buddy Program. My Kindergarten buddy has been so much fun to play with every time I see her!
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York to study Business.
AT CA SINCE: Fourth Grade. Some of the most meaningful activities in which I participated at Colorado Academy were co-chairing Student’s H.O.P.E., being on Community Council, the Community Leadership Team, and playing, Basketball, Baseball and Soccer (State Champions 2012).
SENIOR SERVICE: My project involved advocating for the state of education in India.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Senior/ Kindergarten Buddy system. No matter how stressed out I am, seeing my Kindergarten buddy puts a smile on my face.
CA MEMORY: I walked into my Ninth Grade history class one day, and Mr. Kim was wearing tennis shoes. I thought to myself, “That is strange. I have never seen him this casual. I like his casual look.” All of a sudden, the seniors came roaring up the halls, and into my class screaming “SENIOR KIDNAP DAY!!!” Every spring, I was always excited if I saw Mr. Kim wearing tennis shoes.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. One of the most meaningful Upper School activities was participating in the Portfolio Photography Program and putting together my own art show.
SENIOR SERVICE: I chose to raise money through a celebrity auction. I donated all the proceeds from the auction to a young girl with severe scoliosis to pay for her treatment.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Senior/ Kindergarten Buddies because it gave me a chance to learn about responsibility, and it brought back memories of when I was in Kindergarten and had my senior buddy.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was my art show. I was able to share my passion and creative abilities with others.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Redlands, Redlands, California to study Business.
AT CA SINCE: Fourth Grade. I love athletic events, whether I am playing in them or watching, I love the excitement and intensity that they bring.
SENIOR SERVICE: I built and decorated a table for a therapy garden at a horse rehabilitation ranch that works with abused and neglected horses. The ranch also provides therapy for children who suffer from depression.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is the Senior/ Kindergarten Buddy Program. Whenever I see my Kindergartener, her face lights up, and she runs and gives me a huge hug.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was my trip to Senegal with fifteen other students and faculty members. Not only did we get to learn about new cultures and lifestyles from around the world, but also we learned so much about each other through the trip.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas to study Nutritional Sciences.
AT CA SINCE: Kindergarten. I have been on the CA Women’s Swim Team for four years and have met some of my best friends, competitors, and inspirations.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with Swedish Medical Center to perform skits during the hospital’s Children’s Health Fair to teach underprivileged kids the importance of nutrition and hygiene.
CA TRADITION: My favorite CA tradition is Senior/ Kindergarten Buddy Program. As a Kindergartener, I looked up to my Senior. At the time, I even thought my Senior lived on her own and was married! Now that I am a Senior, I realize that that couldn’t have been true. I always look forward to spending time with my buddy.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was my freshman year at Coffee Haus (the Upper School talent show). I looked up to the upperclassmen so much, and I learned that night that at a school like CA, it is cool to celebrate everyone’s quirky talents.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Boston College, Boston, Massachusetts to study Nursing.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. I think Diversity Day is the most meaningful day I’ve experienced at CA. It’s a whole day dedicated to being open and experiencing new things.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with my classmates, we are bringing the sport of Parkour to Horizons students this summer. Classes will be taught at the gym and then we will help take Horizons students out to test their Parkour skills around town.
CA TRADITION: I think advisory time is my favorite tradition at CA. It was nice to gather with the same people everyday and to enjoy food. It helped that our advisory was very close, and we had an amazing advisor. Hill’s advisory rocks!
CA MEMORY: I will most remember the dance parties that the Senior Class had in Macy’s Place when the new high school was being built. It was the best!
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. One of the most meaningful things I’ve done at CA is play the violin. I don’t think it’s typical for an eighteen-year-old guy who spends hours upon hours with a tennis racquet in his hand to spend an equal amount of time with a violin bow in his hand, and after thirteen years of playing, it’s become an integral part of who I am.
SENIOR SERVICE: Assisted the GO FOR IT! Institute, a non-profit organization that develops curriculum materials to teach self-confidence and success. I facilitated a relationship with this group and the Horizons Program at Colorado Academy.
CA TRADITION: My favorite tradition at CA is the advisory system. I was so lucky to be a part of a handful of students as we grew into a family over four years.
CA MEMORY: One of my favorite CA memories would have to be my Portfolio Studio Art show.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Davidson College, Davidson, North Carolina.
AT CA SINCE: Sixth Grade. Swim team was definitely one of my most meaningful high school experiences. It was a great way to get to know new people and form strong friendships. I also was very involved in the Theatre Department, which I also thoroughly enjoyed.
SENIOR SERVICE: I organized a food drive in my neighborhood to benefit the SAME Cafe. The SAME Cafe is a restaurant that works towards serving healthy meals to all, regardless of economic status.
CA TRADITION: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program was definitely a highlight of my senior year. It was great to get a break from school and hang out with my buddy.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana.
AT CA SINCE: Pre-Kindergarten. I am honored to have been a part of the short-lived Colorado Academy Kazoo Ensemble.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with other students, we conducted a service project to redesign the website for the Rocky Mountain Rowing Club.
CA TRADITION: Interim. I find that it’s a great opportunity to explore new interests and enjoy the company of my peers.
CA MEMORY: Making cinnamon bread every Friday in Lower School.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.
AT CA SINCE: Kindergarten. Among my most meaningful activities were golf and starting our own club, Frederick’s Court.
SENIOR SERVICE: I worked with a company to create a new website for my local church.
CA TRADITION: I have always loved the Homecoming dance. Even though a different theme is set for each dance, it always ends up turning into an energetic, glow stick-filled party.
CA MEMORY: Getting my first “A” freshman year.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas to study Physics.
AT CA SINCE: Ninth Grade. Some of the most meaningful activities I enjoyed at CA were the Men’s Tennis Team and Film Club.
SENIOR SERVICE: My senior service-learning project was also my Eagle Scout project. I built six picnic benches for the park being built near St. Johns Lutheran Church and School.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was from Winterfest 2013 because both Evan Liu and Gustavo Flores attended the dance, and no one had to pay them to do it. It was a great night full of many jokes some good, clean, and kosher fun. Everybody “busted a move.”
REMEMBER ME: I would most like to be remembered for being the first person to play Junior Varsity tennis one year and then the very next year have the best record of wins versus losses on Varsity 1.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Whitman College, Walla Walla, Washington.
AT CA SINCE: Seventh Grade. My favorite club was World Dance. I shared laughs with others over our confused looks and about our faulty footwork. Plus, I made lots of new friends.
SENIOR SERVICE: Along with other students, I worked with Rocky Mountain Puppy Rescue to provide material needs that would help make puppy fostering easier.
CA TRADITION: Being a Senior Buddy is my favorite CA tradition because of how joyful my Kindergartener was every time we were together.
CA MEMORY: I loved CA. I am honored to have been a part of the friendly community.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: Occidental College, Los Angeles, California to study Marine Biology.
AT CA SINCE: Kindergarten. I have most enjoyed the musicals during high school, the trip to Senegal, and Students H.O.P.E.
SENIOR SERVICE: Working with another student, I conducted a canned food and toiletry drive for EChO. EChO is a Christian outreach non-profit charity/food bank that provides assistance to the community.
CA TRADITION: I love Senior Kidnap Day because it’s always a surprise, and it’s so fun to get to take the whole high school off campus for the day.
CA MEMORY: My favorite CA memory was going to Senegal with Ms. Hill and Mr. James. It was a lifechanging experience.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: High Point University, High Point, North Carolina to study Business and Psychology.
AT CA SINCE: Kindergarten. At CA, I have enjoyed being a part of Amnesty International, the Varsity Tennis Team, technical theater, and photography.
SENIOR SERVICE: I combined my service project with my photography portfolio, which was a photojournalism project. I photographed, talked to, recorded, and wrote about homeless people in downtown Denver as well as some Alzheimer’s patients.
CA TRADITION: I always enjoyed seeing the Pre-K through 12 grades at All-School Assemblies, as well as attending assemblies with a “buddy” from a different grade. I also loved being in my advisory over four years of high school.
CA MEMORY: I think my favorite memories during both freshman and sophomore years are were from Senior Kidnap Day. The seniors were very creative and very nice about it. I also loved all the trips I got to go on for Interim in Middle and Upper School.
IMMEDIATE PLANS: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
A dynamic liberal arts and sciences program that challenges students ethically, academically, artistically, and athletically creates the foundation of Colorado Academy. Teachers, students, parents, and staff foster trusting and respectful relationships, enhancing our thriving school family. Students pursue excellence and seek to become life-long learners and contributors in our local and international communities.