CA Senior Journal - Class of 2016

COLORADO ACADEMY

CLASS OF 2016

senior journal

Class of 2016

Caroline Elizabeth Adams .........................................5

Andrew Hamilton Aertker .........................................5

Cameron William Allan ...............................................6

Gabriella Catherine Annest ......................................6

Kiira Victoria Antenucci ..............................................7

Emerson Kate Baer .......................................................7

Nicholas Lambert Bain................................................8 Martha Dickinson Baker .............................................8 John Peter Barron .........................................................9

Justin Montri Bassey ....................................................9

Christina Marie Bear.................................................. 10

Piper Noble Bittman ................................................. 10 Spencer Noble Bittman ........................................... 11 Brianna Wahneta Michele Bullock ...................... 11

Addielee Hannah Bush ............................................ 12

Kathryn Pearl Cahn.................................................... 12

Edward Norman Cain ............................................... 13

Linnie Marie Cole ....................................................... 13

William Forrest Creedon II ...................................... 14

Evan Marie Doherty .................................................. 14

Brent Miles Edwards ................................................. 15

Tara Ann Edwards ...................................................... 15 John Tyler Fairbairn ................................................... 16 Megan Aline Fitzgerald ........................................... 16

Bre’Ajahe Floyd ............................................................ 17

Noah Andrew Forman 17

Albert Jerome Frantz 18 Isabelle Patricia Fries 18 Jack Walter Funk 19

Nicholas Cooper Fuselier 19 Anna Mai Gallagher .................................................. 20

Kacey Maria Zhu Godwin ....................................... 20 Sarah Barbara Goldman .......................................... 21 Tess Rose Hankin ........................................................ 21 Noah Francisco Hernandez ................................... 22 Maryam Husain........................................................... 22

Christian Robert Hyatt ............................................. 23 Peter Colin Jeffries ..................................................... 23 John Raymond Kasel ................................................ 24

Zachary Ugo Kasica................................................... 24

Julia Wetten Kelly ....................................................... 25

Thomas Robert Kidder............................................. 25 Rachel Soon-yong Kim ............................................ 26 Elise Evelyn Korneffel ............................................... 26

Mara Taylor Krutsinger 27

Heather Endo Kurtz................................................... 27

Dat Van Le...................................................................... 28

Angelina Lisa Leonardi ............................................ 28

Victoria Emalee Lim................................................... 29 Samantha Ann Little ................................................. 29 Melissa Sage Lochhead ........................................... 30 Lorenzo Luis Lopez .................................................... 30 Loida Elizabeth Luna ................................................ 31 Nicholas Finnian Mahoney .................................... 31 Jordan Erica McLeod ................................................ 32 McCulloh Keating Mease ........................................ 32 Alexander Robert Medema ................................... 33 Jacqueline Noelle Melberg .................................... 33 Max George Messner ............................................... 34 Anne Morgan Miller .................................................. 34 Samah Elyas Mohamed ........................................... 35 Sarah Danielle Nichols ............................................. 35 Chloe Arielle Nosan................................................... 36 Winston Weiss Palmeri ............................................. 36 Katherine McVey Pearson ...................................... 37 Clara Petch .................................................................... 37 Rebecca Popara .......................................................... 38 Abel Ramirez ................................................................ 38 Michael Peyton Rice.................................................. 39 Emma Davenport Richards.................................... 39 Jonathan Bram Rockford ........................................ 40 Emily Jane Rockwell.................................................. 40 Katherine Zoe Ryan................................................... 41 Nicholas Kohei Schneck .......................................... 41

David William Schurman 42 Jared Brice Schwartz 42 Madison Nicole Schweitz 43 Turner Howard Williams Selby IV 43 Isaac James Skadow 44 Michelle Kasandra Solis ........................................... 44

Britton Gabriel Stocks............................................... 45 Ian Joseph George Thomas ................................... 45 Mathias Theodore Tormaschy .............................. 46 Peter Vukovich-Simonson ...................................... 46

Travis Anthony Washington .................................. 47 Madeleine Crawford Webster ............................... 47 Hayden Clark Wiseman............................................ 48 George Charles Younger ......................................... 48

ABOUT THE COVER:

These are the words of the Class of 2016. Each student was asked to list three words that described Colorado Academy. The most-often used words were “Community” and “Challenging.”

Photography by Trevor Brown • www.trevorbrown.com To see all of the senior portraits, go to: http://bit.ly/1syDt03

Share your CA commencement moments by tagging and posting your photos: #ColoradoAcademyCommencement

The Class of 2016

Congratulations to the Colorado Academy Class of 2016! This class of 88 students includes inventors, writers, actors, and athletes; editors of CA’s award-winning student publications, portfolio artists, engineering enthusiasts, computer and coding whizzes, film makers, photographers, social justice pioneers, outdoor aficionados and much more; all with individual talents and interests, and together a remarkable collection of people.

Each of these students is devoted to causes and communities beyond CA, whether helping to build a library in Senegal or building homes for people here in Denver; whether teaching and tutoring students or trying to solve global warming.

This class of graduates will depart for destinations from Patagonia to Glasgow and from Walla Walla, Washington to Lewiston, Maine. Says 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.”

Thank you for all you have brought to CA. Congratulations, Class of 2016!

Chris Bittman

John Burstein ‘89

Peter Culshaw

Mike Davis, ex-officio Ivette Dominguez Drawe

Mona Ferrugia, ex-officio Mike Fries

Dickson Griswold

Leslie Howard

David Jones ‘95

Jim Kidder ‘80 Gary Lutz

Brooke Bansbach Maloy ‘90

Heather Kemper Miller

Tricia Noble

Craig Ponzio

Eliza Prall

Bryan Ritz

Brian Robinson ‘02, ex-officio

Doug Robinson

Celia Sheneman

Minyoung Sohn Rick Stone

Tim Walsh

Maribeth Younger

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Colorado Academy Trustees 2015-2016

Class of 2016 Commencement Dinner

Wednesday, June 1, 2016 | Stamper Commons

APPETIZER SALAD

ENTRÉE

VEGETARIAN ENTRÉE

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Dinner Served with Assorted Rolls & Butter : French, Whole Wheat, Multi Grain, Garlic Parmesan & Kalamata

Watermelon & Heirloom Tomatoes Baby Arugula Feta Cheese Lochhead Vanilla Mango Vinaigrette

Chicken Breast

Fingerling Potatoes

Green

Herb-Marinated Local Red Bird Farms Free Range 8 oz.

Organic Roasted

Maple Scented

Beans Red Wine Demi-Glace

Grilled Organic Vegetable Tofu Quinoa Polenta Stack Grilled Summer Squash & Caramelized Baby Bok Choy Seared Local Organic GMO-Free Tofu Sundried Tomato & Scallion Quinoa Polenta Cake Roasted Red Pepper Garbanzo Tahini Puree

6:15 p.m. - Reception | 7:15 p.m. - Dinner | 8:15 p.m. - Remarks

DESSERT

Flourless Chocolate Torte Fresh Macerated Organic Strawberries Non-Dairy Whipped Topping

CHILDREN’S ENTRÉE

Gluten-Free Penne Pasta Served With Extra Virgin Olive Oil Fresh Shredded Parmesan Cheese Carrot & Celery Sticks

Entrée Accompanied by: Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Drink Boxes of Organic Apple Juice, Organic Chocolate Milk & Organic 2% Milk (Available Upon Request)

Catering Services Presented by: With Special Thanks to Chef Paul Worley and his wonderful staff

Service of alcoholic beverages is restricted to those 21 years of age and older

Senior Memory Boards on display in Raether Library during dinner

Restrooms: Raether Library, Schotters Music Center, Upper School, Lower School & temporary restrooms

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Class of 2016 Commencement

Thursday, June 2, 2016 | 9:30 a.m. Welborn House Lawn

Prelude Music

The Boulder Brass Processional (Audience Stands)

“Pomp and Circumstance” - Sir Edward Elgar

The Boulder Brass Welcome

Bryan Ritz, Board of Trustees Opening Remarks

Michael G. Davis, Ph.D., Head of School Musical Performance

“The Human Heart” - Eric Barnum

Performed by the Colorado Academy Chamber Choir Class of 2016 Elected Student Speaker

Rebecca Popara Presentation of Diplomas

Michael G. Davis, Ph.D. Recessional

(Audience Stands)

The Boulder Brass Brunch: served in the Campus Center (Immediately following Commencement Exercises)

Restrooms: SW corner of the Carolyn Smith Center

Senior Memory Boards: on display in the Campus Center (Please take with you following Brunch)

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Caroline Elizabeth Adams

At CA Since: Sixth Grade

Powerful Experience: Community Leadership Team. I formed great friendships through CLT, and I am so grateful to have been part of this program because of how much I have grown and learned about myself.

Community Impact Project: I volunteered with Family Promise through which we hosted families at our church for one week and provided them with a place to sleep and three hot meals each day.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Freshman/Senior Buddy Program in the Upper School. I love my freshman buddy so much, and she has definitely become my little sister!

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The volleyball program at CA has been like a second family to me. I will always remember the amazing coaching staff and my teammates.

Immediate Plans: Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR to study Animal Science with Pre-Vet option.

Andrew Hamilton Aertker

At CA Since: Tenth Grade

Powerful Experience: How easily I was welcomed after transferring from a different school to CA in tenth grade.

Community Impact Project: Working with other students, we partnered with Habitat for Humanity to construct houses in Denver for people in need of a home.

Favorite CA Tradition: The first day of school when all seniors dress up for and welcome the freshmen into the high school.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The academic rigor and the love of teaching that all CA teachers have.

Immediate Plans: Trinity University, San Antonio, TX.

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Cameron (Cam) William Allan

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: An absolutely brutal freshman year Interim — a ski touring trip above Cameron Pass. I could barely hike up to our campsite and was exhausted when I got there. I ski toured the next several days and got through it. It taught me to just keep going.

Community Impact Project: I collected dog food and donations for the English Springer Rescue of America and Animal Haus, a Denver pet food pantry that helps families in need take care of their pets.

Favorite CA Tradition: Homecoming Parade, because it perpetuates a feeling of school pride.

Immediate Plans: Middlebury College in Middlebury, VT to study Economics and Mathematics.

Gabriella (Ella) Catherine Annest

At CA Since: Seventh Grade

Powerful Experience: Taking classes from Luis Terrazas for six straight trimesters. He changed the way I think, write, and debate. I will always remember his Supreme Court class and the way he challenged me to be both the best student and person that I could be.

Community Impact Project: I worked with Children’s Hospital in the CHIP Program (the Children’s Hospital Immunodeficiency Program), which helps families dealing with HIV and AIDS.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim. I have gone to so many fun places and become friends with so many people whom I otherwise would not have.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember winning the State Championship in Lacrosse in 2015 and all the effort and teamwork that led up to it.

Immediate Plans: University of California Berkeley, CA to study Biochemistry.

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Kiira Victoria Antenucci

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: I loved working with the Kindergarteners, because it connected me to and helped me feel a part of the larger school community.

Community Impact Project: I worked with the Colorado Academy Children’s Hospital Club and the Junior Volunteer Advisory Board at Children’s encouraging more students to volunteer at the hospital.

Favorite CA Tradition: The tag game that seniors play toward the end of their last year at CA.

Immediate Plans: Gap year to travel with the National Outdoor Leadership School to Patagonia for 135 days, then on to University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA.

Emerson (Emmy) Kate Baer

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten Powerful Experience: My sophomore year American Studies class.

Community Impact Project: I worked with a program called SOAR, where I mentored at-risk youth using the power of music. I taught the children songs and helped them organize a concert to raise money for the program.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Upper School Freshman/Senior buddy introduction on the first day of school. This event allows students to start off the school year with excitement to be back in school and the opportunity to meet new high schoolers and welcome them to the community.

Immediate Plans: Tulane University, New Orleans, LA to study Business (Marketing) Major, Spanish Minor.

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Nicholas (Nick) Lambert Bain

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: Teachers at CA introduced a paradigm shift in how I thought about what a good teacher was.

Community Impact Project: Researching a method of absorbing atmospheric CO2 with classmate David Schurman and scientists at the National Center for Atmospheric Research. We hope to publish a paper on our idea.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Halloween parade. CA students always have creative costumes.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: Spending a lot of time in the Innovation Lab. I’ve been working on building an airplane, which has taken up most of my recent free time at CA.

Immediate Plans: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, MA.

Martha (Martie) Dickinson Baker

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: Sophomore Interim with Dr. Davis. Hiking through the Anasazi ruins for 10+ miles learning new things and making some of my very best friends.

Community Impact Project: I created a collaborative project between the Horizons Program at Colorado Academy and the Young Americans Center for Financial Education in order to educate underprivileged youth about the principles of finance and how to apply them to their lives.

Favorite CA Tradition: The first day of school when the seniors welcome the community with upbeat music and a goofy theme!

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The variety of engaging classes to which I was exposed. I will also remember how formative I found the Mock Trial program.

Immediate Plans: Claremont McKenna College, Claremont, CA.

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John Peter Barron

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: Hut trips. Hiking into the backcountry hut and spending quality time with other students and teachers in a beautiful outdoor environment were among my most powerful experiences at CA.

Community Impact Project: Working with other students, we partnered with Habitat for Humanity to help raise awareness for Habitat’s mission and participate in build days on the Sable Ridge site.

Favorite CA Tradition: CA’s experiential education as it gives students the chance to learn amazing lessons outside the classroom and provides unique experiences that would otherwise be quite hard to obtain.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The amazing faculty and students who helped create such a great high school experience.

Immediate Plans: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA to study Business or Economics.

Justin Bassey

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Working with a group of freshmen while serving on the Community Leadership Team.

Community Impact Project: I co-founded an annual charitable basketball tournament at CA designed to promote the school clubs and to foster the relationship between the faculty and Upper School students.

Favorite CA Tradition: Giant Relay Day. I love our Color Wars competition, and I enjoy getting to compete against my peers in a fun event.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: Having stupendous amounts of fun on basketball team trips: story telling, bus rides, magic tricks, and freestyle rap battles.

Immediate Plans: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA to study Economics.

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Christina Marie Bear

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Four years of Mock Trial at Colorado Academy transformed my ability to speak in public and think on my feet. We have awesome mentors who selflessly volunteer their time to the students.

Community Impact Project: In 2013, I traveled to Senegal with my schoolmates for a homestay and service learning. We completed construction of a library in a remote village.

Inspired to continue contributing to literacy in Senegal, I teamed up with a classmate to collect books to send there.

Favorite CA Tradition: The first day of school as a Senior welcoming the younger students and “passing the torch” to our freshman buddies as the future of our Upper School.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: My math, science, and computer science teachers were mostly female, and I will always remember the encouragement and empowerment that they gave me.

Immediate Plans: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA to study Computer Science, Environmental Science and Public Policy.

Piper Noble Bittman

At CA Since: Second Grade

Powerful Experience: Working with the Horizons Program at CA has been the most rewarding part of my high school experience. I was able to build relationships with the Horizons students that I will never forget, and I can’t wait to come back each summer to work with them.

Community Impact Project: Another student and I started a Horizons Club for the Upper School that allowed CA students to get more involved with this program.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim has been my favorite CA tradition because it allows us to end the school year with a fun trip with friends.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember having a great advisor and going to the State Championship in basketball while serving as the team’s manager.

Immediate Plans: University of Oregon, Eugene, OR to study Marine Biology.

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Spencer Noble Bittman

At CA Since: Second Grade Powerful Experience: I was on the CA Varsity Basketball Team in my junior year. With just eight seconds left in the semifinal game against Faith Christian, I was put in. I snatched an offensive rebound and passed it to Justin, who was fouled. But he made both free throws and sent the game into overtime. We upset Faith Christian and won the game.

Community Impact Project: Working with others, I helped to create a charity basketball tournament where many different school charities and clubs were represented on teams of both students and teachers. All entry fees were awarded to the winning team’s charity.

Favorite CA Tradition: Senior/Kindergarten buddies. I love being able to connect with a part of the school I don’t see very often. It is very humbling knowing that your buddy looks up to you and enjoys every moment he/she has with you.

Immediate Plans: University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO.

Brianna (Bri) Wahneta Michele Bullock

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: Open Mic after PlatForum during my junior year. It was the first time we had ever done an Open Mic, and people were willing to let their guard down and share something personal. What made it even more powerful was how the audience of students was very accepting and supportive of the person who had the floor.

Community Impact Project: I participated in S.T.A.M.P. Program (Students Taking Action and Making Progress), where I helped plan a full-day diversity conference for Middle School students and ran a workshop on police brutality.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program. It makes the community feel smaller, and I light up whenever I see my buddy.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the people who made my CA experience special: my second family the Thorpe advisory, Physiology with Dani Meyers, and countless hours with my friends in the conference room.

Immediate Plans: Rollins College, Winter Park, FL to study Biology & Pre-Med.

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Addielee

(Addie) Hannah Bush

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: I participated in the Turkish exchange program with Üsküdar American Academy and went to Istanbul for two weeks to stay with a host family. A Turkish student also came here for two weeks.

Community Impact Project: I’ve been volunteering for Zuma’s Rescue Ranch, which cares for abused horses and pairs them with at-risk children and families for therapy.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim, because it allows you to connect with students from all grades outside the classroom.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember all the close relationships I had with friends and teachers.

Immediate Plans: Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX to study Interior Design.

Kathryn (Katie) Pearl Cahn

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: Being part of the Community Leadership Team as a senior and being able to witness the changes that occur throughout a freshman’s first year of high school.

Community Impact Project: Another student and I put up posters around the Upper School to educate people about LGBT issues.

Favorite CA Tradition: I love the first day of school and welcoming the freshmen.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: My fellow members of the Community Leadership Team.

Immediate Plans: Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT.

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Edward Norman Cain

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: One of my most powerful Upper School experiences was during Sophomore English. My teacher challenged me to think critically about my writing and express my thoughts succinctly.

Community Impact Project: I interviewed senior citizens at a retirement home who had served in the military. The interviews and a subsequent display were used during a Veterans Day celebration at their location.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition is when the seniors welcome the incoming freshmen. I think this tradition sets the tone for the school year, and it highlights the personality of the senior class.

Immediate Plans: Occidental College, Los Angeles, CA.

Linnie Marie Cole

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: My junior year, I took a class on the Beats Movement of the 1960s with Mr. James. The class taught me more than I could ever have learned from a textbook.

Community Impact Project: I promoted volunteerism among CA students to help patients at Children’s Hospital, and I orchestrated events to raise money and awareness for the Hospital.

Favorite CA Tradition: Giant Relay Day. I love the return of alumni and the general excitement for summer. Every year in Lower School I would dye my hair red for the day.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the connections with teachers more than anything. They have made the CA experience 100% worth it.

Immediate Plans: Smith College in Northampton, MA to study English and Studio Art.

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William (Will) Forrest Creedon II

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Standing up at the opening assembly at the beginning of the school year and being recognized as a senior. I have observed that tradition since I was in Pre-K.

Community Impact Project: I volunteered with Habitat for Humanity to build homes for people in need.

Favorite CA Tradition: The opening assembly on the first day of the school year. The whole school comes together to bring in the new year with a positive attitude and great sense of community.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember my time playing on the Boys Basketball Team.

Immediate Plans: University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA.

Evan Marie Doherty

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: The Art Portfolio Program. I was proud to watch people walk through my final gallery, but I was equally happy to look back at my unhung (or sometimes crumpled up) pieces and think about the fun I had making all of them.

Community Impact Project: I was the Director of The Synapse Project, a website devoted to empowering young women interested in neuroscience. I organized an online science fair for students and professionals to share their projects and ideas with the scientific community.

Favorite CA Tradition: Community Leadership Team and Interim. Both have helped me learn a lot about my peers and myself.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: Friendships! My friends at CA, both students and teachers, have shaped who I am and aspire to be.

Immediate Plans: Colorado College, Colorado Springs, CO to study Neuroscience, Nutrition, Art.

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Brent Miles Edwards

At CA Since: Second Grade Powerful Experience: Playing on the tennis team, especially my experiences competing and cheering on my teammates at the State Tournament.

Community Impact Project: Two other students and I worked with The Urban Farm to build a new enclosure for the cows in order to give them more space.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim. It is a great way to close the year by spending time outdoors and getting to know your friends and teachers in a different environment. What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember all of my classmates, teachers, and other members of the community who have helped me get to where I am over the last eleven years.

Immediate Plans: Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT.

Tara Ann Edwards

At CA Since: Second Grade Powerful Experience: Being part of the CA women’s Tennis Team. My amazing coaches and teammates made high school tennis one of the best experiences of my life.

Community Impact Project: Building an enclosure for five cows at the Urban Farm.

Favorite CA Tradition: Giant Relay Day, because the games and activities are always a fun way to end the school year. What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember my peers and the great times we’ve shared together.

Immediate Plans: Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY.

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John (Ty) Tyler Fairbairn

At CA Since: Eleventh Grade

Powerful Experience: Connecting with my teachers.

Community Impact Project: Working with other students, we volunteered with Habitat for Humanity. We worked on homes and documented the progress we made by taking photos before and after.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim offers unique opportunities to build new relationships with students.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: the people I have met here.

Immediate Plans: Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA.

Megan Aline Fitzgerald

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: Being a part of and experiencing the Senior Portfolio Program.

Community Impact Project: I volunteer at my local church and provide services for the daycare center that cares for newborns and toddlers.

Favorite CA Tradition: Giant Relay Day. Seeing the entire school get together and compete really brings the school year to a great conclusion.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I’ll definitely remember the sense of community that CA offered to us. CA provided a safe environment for us in which to thrive.

Immediate Plans: University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder CO to study Business Marketing and Fashion Merchandising.

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Bre’Ajahe (Bre) Floyd

At CA Since: Sixth Grade Powerful Experience: The Student Diversity Leadership Conference helped me find my confidence and also taught me how to speak my truth unapologetically.

Community Impact Project: I went to New York and did different types of community service around the city. I was given the opportunity to hear the stories of those I helped serve, and this experience taught me so much about myself.

Favorite CA Tradition: When Dr. Davis announces the names of the seniors at the opening assembly on the first day of school.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: Ten years from now I think I will remember the first day of my freshman year when I was welcomed by seniors and was dressed up by my senior buddy. Immediate Plans: Loyola University Maryland, Baltimore, MD to study Political Science.

Noah Andrew Forman

At CA Since: Sixth Grade Powerful Experience: My most powerful experience in Upper School has been my time spent on the CA Tennis Team. I have not only developed as a leader by playing on the team, but also have made incredible memories and friendships.

Community Impact Project: I worked with the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD). My job with the organization was to take children and young adults with disabilities skiing at Winter Park Resort.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim. I have learned through my experiences with Interim how to stretch beyond my comfort zone and overcome the reluctance to try something new.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the relationships and friendships I’ve formed not only with my classmates, but also with my teachers. I feel this is an experience that is unique to CA and I’m incredibly grateful for it.

Immediate Plans: Colorado College, Colorado Springs, CO.

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Albert Jerome Frantz

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Brett James’ Beat Literature class junior year was amazing. The discussions were very interesting and got me interested in poetry and reading.

Community Impact Project: I volunteered at St. Elizabeth’s School in the after school program, helping students with homework and playing with the kids at recess.

Favorite CA Tradition: Senior “Retreat Day” as it is a time where the whole senior class can bond for one of the last times.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The Photography Portfolio experience and how much I enjoyed the process over two years.

Immediate Plans: University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA.

Isabelle Patricia Fries

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: Being able to spend my senior year with my sister at CA and traveling to Haiti to work with CA’s sister school there in the rural mountains near Mirebalais.

Community Impact Project: I spent three weeks last summer working with schools in Uganda, and then this fall, I raised money to provide HIV testing for children there.

Favorite CA Tradition: Spirit day during Homecoming Week. I love how the entire school dresses up and comes together to celebrate at the pep rally!

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: My friends.

Immediate Plans: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA to study International Relations and Vocal Performance.

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Jack Walter Funk

At CA Since: Fourth Grade

Powerful Experience: I went on an exchange program to Scotland my junior year, and it has had a profound effect on me. Learning how to represent your own country and beliefs in a foreign country was very powerful.

Community Impact Project: I organized a Spikeball tournament in which the participants played for a specific charity and the winner donated the money collected to that charity.

Favorite CA Tradition: The CA vs. Kent rivalry. Some of my favorite memories are chanting back and forth with our rival school at soccer, basketball, and other sports games.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: Learning how to be accountable and responsible.

Immediate Plans: Northwestern University, Evanston, IL to study Political Science and Economics.

Nicholas (Nick) Cooper Fuselier

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: When I went on an avalanchetraining course in Estes Park. We skied all the way to the top of a mountain, and I was placed completely out of my element physically and mentally. I learned how decisive perseverance and encouragement are when trying to accomplish something challenging.

Community Impact Project: I organized a Spikeball tournament to raise money for charity and to bring members of the CA community together.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Homecoming Day/Pep Rally. I love how the whole CA community is involved and how everyone comes out to support the sports teams.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The relationships I built with my peers, teachers, and coaches.

Immediate Plans: Macalester College, St. Paul, MN to study Environmental Analysis, Economics, and Spanish.

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Anna Mai Gallagher

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Playing on the Lacrosse Team; I have been so blessed to be a part of this special program, playing with my best friends, and to be taught by such an amazing and talented coach.

Community Impact Project: Annie Miller and I have been volunteering for different events put on by the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado throughout the year.

Favorite CA Tradition: Making cinnamon bread in second grade class every Friday. I can still remember that amazing smell that would fill the Lower School.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will always remember the lifelong friendships I have made in the many years I have spent here at CA.

Immediate Plans: Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI in the Pre-Dental Scholars Program to study Biomedical Science.

Kacey Maria Zhu Godwin

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: The Punishment, Politics, and Culture class was both powerful and engaging. As a discussionbased class, it allowed me to further appreciate the diverse perspectives of my peers and gain confidence in my own voice.

Community Impact Project: A classmate and I collected books to send to Senegal where we helped build a library during a trip in our sophomore year.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Senior/Kindergarten buddy program. It is a great way to connect with different parts of the community and have lots of fun in the process.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the incredible relationships that I’ve made with students and faculty.

Immediate Plans: Whitman College, Walla Walla, WA to study Biology or Biochemistry.

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Sarah Barbara Goldman

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten Powerful Experience: Junior Writing Seminar. In this class and his others, Mr. Lee challenges his students to write plainly but meticulously, with thought and passion. He teaches students how to apply purpose to their studies and personal lives by imparting a love for writing and encouraging us to find meaning in the books we read.

Community Impact Project: Another student and I volunteered at a church providing care for newborns.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: More than anything, I believe Colorado Academy has given me lasting friendships. CA has been our home throughout our childhood and in that way, my friends have been my family.

Immediate Plans: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA.

Tess Rose Hankin

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: During my time at CA, I went on two trips to Haiti and one trip to France. Each of the trips has had an indescribable impact on me, and has, without a doubt, shaped me into the person that I am today.

Community Impact Project: I created a mosaic composed of each senior and Kindergarten student’s fingerprints to portray the impact that CA has on its students.

Favorite CA Tradition: Senior portfolio shows! Having my work shown to the students and faculty made me feel so supported and accomplished, and I absolutely loved going to the other shows, as well.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the kindness and the support that I felt throughout my four years at CA. I was able to share one of those years with my little brother, which brought us so much closer together. And, I will remember the lifelong friends I made.

Immediate Plans: Washington University, St. Louis, MO.

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Noah Francisco Hernandez

At CA Since: Sixth Grade

Powerful Experience: The first day of senior year served as a turning point, not only into my final year at Colorado Academy, but also as an introduction into the transition to adulthood, nurtured by CA’s tradition of having a Senior/ Kindergarten buddy system, as well as multiple other responsibilities given to the senior class in our search for colleges and our search for the next step of our lives.

Community Impact Project: I coached kids ages 5 to 8 to learn how to skate and play hockey through a program that provides the kids with equipment, ice time, and coaches that have played the sport since they were that age.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program. The tradition has a lasting impact on those who have been through it.

Immediate Plans: Saint Anselm College, Manchester, NH.

Maryam Husain

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: My senior year, I’ve had the opportunity to combine subjects and study independently in ways I never could have dreamed of coming into high school. I’ve learned to think deeply, broadly, and dynamically about difficult subjects, and I’ve had to learn how to take responsibility for creating my own path to learning.

Community Impact Project: I taught fiction writing classes to Colorado Academy fourth graders.

Favorite CA Tradition: I’ve watched the graduating class stand up during the all-school Field Day Assembly every year since Kindergarten. It’s been fun to count down the years until I graduate.

Immediate Plans: Columbia University, New York, NY to study Computer Science.

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Christian Robert Hyatt

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: One of my most powerful Upper School experiences was playing in two consecutive State Basketball Championship games in front of my family and friends.

Community Impact Project: I helped organize a unified basketball tournament for students with special needs. Over 20 high schools participated in the tournament and I interviewed several students and composed a documentary.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim, because it is a week where students learn essential life skills, spend time with friends and develop a true appreciation for life.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will always remember the life-changing conversations I had with my film teacher Gwylym Cano, history teacher Barry Simmons, and my advisor Bill Hall. I will also always remember the relationships that I developed with my peers.

Immediate Plans: Colorado Christian University in Lakewood, CO to study Business Management with an emphasis in International Business.

Peter Colin Jeffries

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Taking a Short Fiction course. I learned to truly appreciate learning and reading for myself. Since then, I now read assigned books and free reading books with much more enjoyment.

Community Impact Project: I am a volunteer tutor with Whiz Kids, a program designed to improve the lives of children through academic tutoring and mentoring. I meet almost every Tuesday to help a student improve his organization and spelling.

Favorite CA Tradition: Definitely Interim. Every trip I have taken has been filled with great memories and new perspectives from different people. We are privileged enough to have an opportunity like this.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The thing I will remember the most is how much the teachers wanted to see their students excel.

Immediate Plans: The University of Redlands, Redlands, CA.

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John Raymond Kasel

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: My film course during my freshman year. I met a lot of new students, and made long-lasting friendships.

Community Impact Project: I volunteered at Food Bank of the Rockies.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: My friends.

Immediate Plans: Union College, Schenectady, NY to study Bio-engineering.

Zach Ugo Kasica

At CA Since: Tenth Grade

Powerful Experience: Being a member of the Winter Park Big Mountain team was a huge part of my Upper School experience. I met a lot of amazing people and got to travel to some awesome places to compete with them.

Community Impact Project: I helped mentor first grade students working on their reading skills.

Favorite CA Tradition: I really enjoyed spending time with our Kindergarten buddies. They always had lots of energy and it was very exciting.

Immediate Plans: Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO to study Computer Science.

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Julia Wetten Kelly

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: CSU Math Day. The CA students who attended had all different interests and passions. It was a day of laughing, fun, and nerves. One of the CA students who competed got every question right, and I had never been so proud in my life.

Community Impact Project: I helped organize the Day of Silence at CA; this is part of national project where students take a vow of silence to show the silencing effect that bullying and harassment has on the LGBTQIA community.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim. It is a concentrated time of being with other students and taking part in an adventure together.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The warmth and love of the community.

Immediate Plans: Scripps College, Claremont, CA to study Computer Science.

Thomas (TK) Robert Kidder

At CA Since: Sixth Grade Powerful Experience: I will always remember the final lacrosse game I played, where we lost to Cherry Creek. The emotion was so incredibly powerful in the locker room afterwards. It was deeply moving to see so many diverse people bonded together.

Community Impact Project: I worked with Habitat for Humanity to finish up their large development in Sable Ridge. I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside the future owners of the homes, which has been incredibly humbling.

Favorite CA Tradition: I enjoy the Senior/Kindergarten and Freshman buddy programs. I really enjoy all the ways that CA tries to create bonds between different people.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will certainly remember all of the teachers at CA and the enormous impact they’ve had on my life.

Immediate Plans: University of Colorado, Leeds School of Business, Boulder, CO to study Finance.

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Rachel Soon-yong Kim

At CA Since: Sixth Grade

Powerful Experience: Traveling to San Sebastian, Spain alone to study Spanish for three weeks in the summer of 2013. Not only did this trip cement my interest in the Spanish language, but I also believe that it marked a crucial step in the growth of my independence.

Community Impact Project: I coached advanced athletes from the Special Olympics Cherry Creek Alpine Ski Racing Team on skiing bumps and other difficult terrain. My goal was for my athletes to feel comfortable skiing all parts of the mountain so they can be stronger skiers and have better experiences on the slopes.

Favorite CA Tradition: Senior/Kindergarten buddies. It has allowed me to bond with not only my class but also with the greater CA community.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember and miss the conversations that I had with my fellow students and the faculty at CA.

Immediate Plans: Princeton University, Princeton, NJ to study Biochemistry.

Elise Evelyn Korneffel

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Completing a Portfolio Art Show as a senior. I took photography throughout high school, and being able to see all of my hard work in a gallery opening was very exciting and powerful.

Senior Service Project: I took photographs for the Horizons program during their Super Saturdays and other special events.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy program. I am still in contact with my senior buddy from when I was a kindergartener, and now having my own kindergartener is special and fun.

Immediate Plans: University of Oregon, Eugene, OR to study English.

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Mara Taylor Krutsinger

At CA Since: Sixth Grade

Powerful Experience: All of the outdoor education trips that I have taken have been wonderful unique experiences that make it possible to know people in new ways.

Community Impact Project: For my senior service project we worked with Colorado Adaptive Sports to raise awareness of a differently abled community within the larger Denver.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition is Interim because it gives us the opportunity to push our physical boundaries after a year of pushing our mental boundaries.

Immediate Plans: Smith College, Northampton, MA.

Heather Endo Kurtz

At CA Since: Eighth Grade Powerful Experience: My most powerful Upper School experience was a sailing expedition in Nova Scotia between my freshman and sophomore years. Not only did I make some of my closest friends on this trip, but also the experience gave me the confidence to break out of my shell and become more of a leader.

Community Impact Project: Mara Krutsinger and I organized a joint basketball game between Upper School students and the Rolling Nuggets, as well as a clothing drive for the Colorado Adaptive Sports Foundation.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition is Senior/ Kindergarten Buddies. I love how enthusiastic and happy they are to do activities with us.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will definitely remember how amazing the small, close community was. It is easy to start a conversation with anyone and the conversations I have on a daily basis with teachers and students have opened my eyes to perspectives I never knew existed.

Immediate Plans: Williams College, Williamstown, MA to study Astrophysics.

27

Dat Van Le

At CA Since: Sixth Grade

Powerful Experience: The Senior/Kindergarten buddy Program; it’s really nice to have someone look up to you.

Community Impact Project: I volunteer doing translation work at a temple for Vietnamese families. I translate anything from phone calls to bills.

Favorite CA Tradition: The way that seniors welcome the freshmen on the first day of the school year.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will always remember my advisory group.

Immediate Plans: Muhlenberg College, Allentown, PA to study Human Resources Management.

Angelina Lisa Leonardi

At CA Since: Third Grade

Powerful Experience: Taking AP English. Both trimesters of the class were incredibly profound and life changing. The amazing literature and teachers taught me a lot about myself and how to think about the world.

Community Impact Project: Chloe Nosan, Rebecca Popara and I organized and hosted CA’s two talent shows, Coffee Shack and Coffee Haüs. My proceeds went to Urban Peak, a non-profit that helps homeless youth in Denver.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: With the stress longforgotten, I will remember my ability to get through it, and most of all, I will remember my extraordinary teachers and friends.

Immediate Plans: Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY.

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Victoria (Tori) Emalee Lim

At CA Since: Second Grade Powerful Experience: One of my most powerful Upper School experiences was in senior year when I realized how far I’ve come and how much I’ve improved.

Community Impact Project: I collected books from CA’s Used Book Sale and donated them to an organization called Little Free Libraries that distributes books around the world to improve literacy rates.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite tradition is the CA Used Book Sale because I love books. Since my mom has chaired/volunteered for a long time, I get to see the inner workings of it. Also, Interim, because we get to go on fun trips with friends.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the CA swim team and my friends.

Immediate Plans: Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC.

Samantha (Sammy) Ann Little

At CA Since: Third Grade Powerful Experience: Being a part of the Community Leadership Team and having the most meaningful conversations I’ve ever had.

Community Impact Project: I installed an activities center for the pediatric patients in the Lions Eye Institute at the University of Colorado Hospital. The average wait time is three hours, so I wanted to help the kids pass the hours while waiting for treatment.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition is dressing up in themes each game day for lacrosse and field hockey. What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The first day of senior year will be a day I won’t forget anytime soon. Dressing up my freshman buddy with tons of beach garb was pretty great, since my senior buddy made a big deal out of dressing me up my first day of high school.

Immediate Plans: Pomona College, Claremont, CA.

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Melissa (Sage) Sage Lochhead

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: Working with Students H.O.P.E., CA’s annual event to provide clothing, holiday gifts, and food to low-income families.

Community Impact Project: During the Students H.O.P.E. event, we collected storybooks so that the children in attendance would each be able to take their own book home.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition is Kindergarten Buddies because the kids are fun, and it is nice break in the school day.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the outdoor trips that I was able to attend and how much I loved them.

Immediate Plans: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY to study International Agriculture and Rural Development.

Lorenzo Luis Lopez

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: The first day of school blew me away; the energy set the tone for the rest of high school.

Community Impact Project: I worked and read with a first grader.

Favorite CA Tradition: Kindergarten Buddies, because it is super fun being able to see back into the Kindergarten experience.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will definitely remember my peers and CA’s faculty. The experiences I’ve had with them will last a lifetime.

Immediate Plans: University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO to study Mechanical Engineering.

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Loida Elizabeth Luna

At CA Since: Third Grade

Powerful Experience: Winning a fourth consecutive Field Hockey State Championship title in my senior year. The friendships and memories I have made are unforgettable, and I am extremely proud of my team’s accomplishments.

Community Impact Project: Another student and I taught a cooking class to fourth and fifth graders and made cupcakes. The next day, we held a bake sale with the cupcakes to raise money for Horizons at CA.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim is the best. I’ve made so many great friends and have so many memories from these trips.

Immediate Plans: Villanova University, Villanova, PA to study Chemistry, Philosophy, and Pre-Med.

Nicholas (Finn) Finnian Mahoney

At CA Since: Sixth Grade

Powerful Experience: The year I went on a climbing Interim trip in south central Colorado. The people were great, the guides were great, and the teachers were, too.

Community Impact Project: Working with other students, we created a promotional video for CA’s Horizons program.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim. It’s a very cool and unique program that lets you get out of the classroom with your friends.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: How great my best friends are.

Immediate Plans: Gap year.

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Jordan Erica McLeod

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: The open microphone events during PlatForum Day and Town Hall have been really moving for me. They have truly showcased the trust and acceptance within the Colorado Academy Upper School community.

Community Impact Project: I volunteered at the Development Office at Lutheran Hospital.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Faculty Follies/ holiday skit that is held every year right before winter break. It is a great way to end the first half of the school year and always provides lots of laughs. Seeing the teachers in a non-academic environment always makes me feel closer and more comfortable with them.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The encouragement that CA provided throughout my high school experience.

Immediate Plans: Loyola University Maryland, Baltimore, MD.

McCulloh (Mac) Keating Mease

At CA Since: First Grade

Powerful Experience: Winning the state tennis tournament freshman year with Noah Forman.

Community Impact Project: I worked for a Denver city youth organization called Denver City Lax. I was on the board and have volunteered with the organization for three years.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember playing high school sports, taking Mr. Lee’s and Mr. T’s classes sophomore year and how much they both challenged me, and I will remember my Kindergarten buddy.

Immediate Plans: Creighton University, Omaha, NE to study Business.

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Alexander (Alex) Robert Medema

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: My rafting trip in tenth grade was definitely one of my most powerful experiences in Upper School. Relying on a small group to work as a team and make it down the river, with no contact with the outside world, was really eye opening.

Community Impact Project: I helped with maintenance and repairs at Cisco’s Den, a small no-kill dog shelter.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim. Having those experiences is just an amazing part of an education that you cannot find anywhere else.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: Advisory time with Mr. Thorpe and the advisees.

Immediate Plans: Hope College, Holland, Michigan to study Physics.

Jacqueline (Jackie) Noelle Melberg

At CA Since: Tenth Grade

Powerful Experience: Winning consecutive state championships in field hockey as well as one state championship in lacrosse while playing alongside my best friends.

Community Impact Project: Another student and I worked with children from high-risk environments and foster homes to help them learn how to read music with the program SOAR!

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition is Senior/ Kindergarten Buddies, because it was a nice way to just relax and have fun with little kids!

Immediate Plans: Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA.

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Max George Messner

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Reading The Great Gatsby in sophomore English.

Community Impact Project: I made a video to promote the Horizons Program at Colorado Academy.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Upper School Faculty holiday skit just before Winter Break.

Immediate Plans: The United States Military Academy at West Point, NY to study Economics.

Anne (Annie) Morgan Miller

At CA Since: Fifth Grade

Powerful Experience: Sea kayaking and backpacking 165 miles of the Appalachian Trail for a month in Maine in the summer before my junior year.

Community Impact Project: I worked with the Alzheimer’s Association and became an advocate for a cure for the disease. Another student and I spent time at Colorado’s Capitol, speaking with the legislature and attending events to raise awareness and money for the disease.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program and being able create relationships that our buddies will hopefully remember by the time they are seniors.

Immediate Plans: University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO.

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Samah Elyas Mohamed

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: Attending a conference for students of color from independent schools all around the nation really gave me confidence in who I am. This conference really gave me the drive to work toward change.

Community Impact Project: I helped to plan and put on a diversity conference for nearly 2,000 high school students from all around Colorado.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Thanksgiving Dinner we have for grandparents has always been a time in the year I look forward to the most.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The support and familylike atmosphere is something I’m honored to have been part of and will never take for granted.

Immediate Plans: University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO to study Biology and Psychology.

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten Powerful Experience: Interim sophomore year. We spent the week clearing the flood-ravaged town of Jamestown, CO, removing debris, rebuilding the town, and interacting with the locals who welcomed us with open arms.

Community Impact Project: Another student and I collected books and sent them to Little Free Library, an organization that promotes literacy through book exchanges.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program. Having attended CA since Pre-K, I have so many memories with my own senior buddies. It is awesome how 12 years later, I can provide the same experience to a child.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I’ll remember taking walks to Woody’s pond, the Multi-Age Class, and staying after school to play soccer. It’s impossible for me to narrow down or even recall all of the wonderful experiences and opportunities I have been provided with by CA, but as a whole, it was great.

Immediate Plans: Knox College, Galesburg, IL.

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Sarah (Danielle) Danielle Nichols

Chloe Arielle Nosan

At CA Since: Seventh Grade

Powerful Experience: Taking Brett James’ English class on the Beat Generation. We philosophized, wrote and performed poetry, and attended poetry slams, all of which helped me evolve as a thinker, creator, and person.

Community Impact Project: Two friends and I worked together to organize and host CA’s annual talent shows: Coffee Shack and Coffee Haüs. With profits from ticket sales, I was able to donate over $200 to the Cat Care Society.

Favorite CA Tradition: I adore all of the quirky traditions that have been passed down through generations of CA Theatre students. From the warm-up before every show to the paper plate awards presented after the musical, our crazy rituals solidify the bonds we’ve made as an ensemble.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I’ll never forget the relationships I formed with friends and teachers.

Immediate Plans: Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA to study Cognitive Science/Neuroscience and Behavior and Theater.

Winston (Winnie) Weiss Palmeri

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Playing Torrey Pines High School in San Diego in lacrosse and winning. Following the game, it was great to celebrate as a team.

Community Impact Project: I raised money for the HEADstrong Foundation, which works to improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families by providing essential services.

Favorite CA Tradition: Giant Relay Day. It is great to see the whole school have fun on one of the last days of school and start summer in a great way.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: How well I knew people even if I wasn’t great friends with them, because of how small and closely knit our class was.

Immediate Plans: United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO to study Management.

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Katherine (Kate) McVey Pearson

At CA Since: Kindergarten Powerful Experience: This year I was a co-editor-in-chief of CA’s yearbook. During the final days of school, seeing everyone sign one another’s yearbooks and look back on the year, knowing that they are reading all the work that went into this publication, is an amazing feeling.

Community Impact Project: I volunteer at events held by a pet foster network called Animal Rescue of the Rockies.

Favorite CA Tradition: Giant Relay Day. What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will always remember the people who make up the CA community. Both teachers and students have made a lasting impact on me that I won’t soon forget.

Immediate Plans: Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA to study science.

Clara Petch

At CA Since: Eleventh Grade Powerful Experience: Mock Trial was a very powerful experience for me, because not only did it engage me in a subject that I want to study in the future (Law), but it also allowed me to connect with coaches who were all so inspirational and had amazing life experiences and stories to share.

Community Impact Project: I volunteered at Zuma’s Rescue Ranch, an animal sanctuary that focuses on helping abused horses by pairing them with at-risk youth in a mutually therapeutic manner.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim, because it allows me to gain new experiences and go on incredible trips, which I would not be able to do otherwise.

Immediate Plans: Trinity University, San Antonio, TX.

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Rebecca Popara

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: Working with the freshmen and other seniors as part of the Community Leadership Team has been extremely rewarding. From the initial retreat to meetings every few weeks and the relationships I have built, CLT never ceased to surprise me.

Community Impact Project: Along with two other students, we put on CA’s two annual talent shows, Coffee Shack and Coffee Haüs, to support three local charities, SAME Cafe, Cat Care Society, and Urban Peak.

Favorite CA Tradition: I have always loved the faculty skits/ assembly before winter break. It’s a great way to bring the community together, and it’s a great way to start winter break! What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will most remember the relationships I’ve formed with my teachers and my friends. These relationships have shaped who I am as a person, and I am sure that they will continue to do so over the years.

Immediate Plans: Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA.

Abel Ramirez

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: Traveling abroad with CA to different parts of the world. With CA, I traveled to Iceland, Rwanda, Spain, and Cuba, all of which allowed me to grow as a global citizen.

Community Impact Project: Working with another student, we volunteered with the Horizons Program at Colorado Academy.

Favorite CA Tradition: Senior-Freshman buddies because I’ve made lifelong friends through it.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The friends I made in such an amazing community.

Immediate Plans: Bates College, Lewiston, ME.

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Michael (Peyton) Peyton Rice

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: The Community Leadership Team retreat to the High Mountain Institute in Leadville. My classmates and I grew closer to one another, as we created friendships that will last forever.

Senior Service Project: Working with Habitat for Humanity, other students and I helped construct a home for a family in Lakewood.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition is Giant Relay Day. As the culmination of every school year, Giant Relay Day brings the CA community together one last time before school breaks for summer.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the impact the people at CA left on me. From faculty to classmates, everybody has a role in our community. Each person motivates the other to do his or her best.

Immediate Plans: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA to study Architecture.

Emma Davenport Richards

At CA Since: First Grade Powerful Experience: Traveling to Haiti with students and teachers and helping to build a school for the children of Nordette, Haiti.

Community Impact Project: I made a promotional video for the non-profit, The Road to Hope, to show donors what this non-profit does in Haiti.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition is the first day of school when all of the seniors are dressed up and the high school is decorated and we greet the freshmen.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I am going to remember the amazing teachers at Colorado Academy. The teachers are truly what made me love Colorado Academy, and I owe everything to them.

Immediate Plans: Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT to study Pre-Medicine.

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Jonathan Bram Rockford

At CA Since: Seventh Grade

Powerful Experience: Traveling with CA to Spain to study photography.

Community Impact Project: I volunteer on a search and rescue team that is made up entirely of high school students providing search, rescue, and emergency services along Colorado’s Front Range and statewide.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition is Interim. I always enjoyed going on adventures with friends and experiencing new things.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember AP English class. I learned more from that class than any other class I took at CA.

Immediate Plans: University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO to study Aerospace Engineering.

Emily Jane Rockwell

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Every day learning with the amazing teachers at CA is a pleasure!

Community Impact Project: I co-founded a woodwind quintet and volunteer community outreach organization that promotes musical excellence and education that will continue to perform after I graduate. Between 2014 and 2016, the quintet successfully completed 11 performances supporting nonprofit and artistic organizations such as the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, the Jefferson County Cultural Council, the Porter Hospice Foundation, and the Colorado Nonprofit Association.

Favorite CA Tradition: The annual Honors Recital. It is a nice opportunity to share our musical accomplishments with the whole school.

Immediate Plans: Amherst College, Amherst, MA.

40

Katherine (Kate) Zoe Ryan

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: One of my most powerful experiences at CA was going up to talk during an open mic. Everyone was so supportive.

Senior Service Project: I volunteered at Animal Rescue of the Rockies adoption events.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim because you can go on cool trips, learn new skills, and meet new people.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember all of the CA traditions like Interim, Giant Relay Day, and Kindergarten buddies.

Immediate Plans: Colorado State University, Ft. Collins, CO to study Computer Science.

Nicholas (Nick) Kohei Schneck

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: My advisory. Over the four years, I have bonded with my advisees and my advisor, creating long-lasting relationships that I hope will continue.

Community Impact Project: Working with other students, we volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, helping them build houses for those in need.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the community. They are super open, and I have created great relationships with my friends.

Immediate Plans: University of Vermont, Burlington, VT.

41

David William Schurman

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: Pretty much every math class with Charity Smith and every art class with Katy Hills!

Community Impact Project: For the past year, Nick Bain and I have been working with scientists at the National Center for Atmospheric Research on a potential solution to global warming.

Favorite CA Tradition: I’ve enjoyed having a Kindergarten buddy; it’s the first time I’ve really gotten to know a young kid. What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I’ll remember the quality and passion of my teachers. Each one is an expert in their subject and their enthusiasm inspires their students.

Immediate Plans: Brown University, Providence, RI to study Engineering.

Jared Schwartz

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: Reading the transcendentalists in tenth grade with Mr. James was a formative experience. Emerson and Thoreau changed the way I view life.

Community Impact Project: I am volunteering as a reading buddy/tutor for first grade students.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim. What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The Portfolio Art Shows.

Immediate Plans: Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY.

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Madison (Maddie) Nicole Schweitz

At CA Since: Sixth Grade Powerful Experience: PlatForum. It is amazing to me the way people come together on this one day to share a wide variety of opinions. It broadened my view to the lives that my classmates lead and where they come from.

Community Impact Project: Another student and I held a cooking class to teach fourth and fifth grade students about healthy eating.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim. Each year holds a new adventure with opportunities to learn life skills that I would have not otherwise learned.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the opportunity I was given to pursue my interest in audio engineering.

Immediate Plans: Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO.

Turner Howard William Selby IV

At CA Since: Ninth Grade Powerful Experience: Taking AP Physics. Community Impact Project: I worked with other students and volunteered at a dog shelter. I helped them by repairing some fences and gates that are used to keep the dogs contained.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Back-to-School Picnic. It is always nice to get to see everyone again before school starts. What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The close friends and friendships that I have made during my four years at CA.

Immediate Plans: University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO to study Aerospace Engineering.

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Isaac James Skadow

At CA Since: Fourth Grade

Powerful Experience: My most powerful Upper School experience happened at the beginning of the year. Unbounded by a particular moment, the overwhelming sensation of my past experiences with the CA community overpowered me - from Crow Canyon to Outward Bound. Community Impact Project: I volunteered at a dog shelter doing maintenance and work.

Favorite CA Tradition: Senior “Retreat” is my favorite CA tradition. I love being able to be surrounded with my grade doing activities.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: The Innovation Lab. There are so many possibilities in what you can create.

Immediate Plans: Ithaca College, Ithaca, NY to study Computer Science and Technology.

Michelle Kasandra Solis

At CA Since: Tenth Grade

Powerful Experience: A powerful experience for me has been working with Mr. Augustin’s class through Faces of Diversity. Being able to start conversation with very openminded sixth graders was a great experience.

Community Impact Project: For my service-learning project I helped organize and run PlatForum.

Favorite CA Tradition: My favorite CA tradition Is hearing Head of School Dr. Mike Davis read off the seniors’ names. It’s a great way to start off the year united as a class of students.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I’ll remember all the things that come with being a senior at CA.

Immediate Plans: St. Edward’s University, Austin, TX.

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Britton Gabriel Stocks

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten Powerful Experience: Going to Mission Wolf on Interim. Every night we would hear the wolves howl, and everyday we would learn each wolf’s story. Most of them were dismal stories of neglect and abuse, yet seeing them frolic and enjoy their new lives every day, it gave me some hope that everything would be okay.

Community Impact Project: Working with other students to construct a pasture at the Urban Farm that will be used to wean calves.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I think I will remember my AP Euro class with Mr. Thomas. It was a great class full of friends, and we had a truly amazing teacher who led us through history from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Cold War.

Immediate Plans: University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland to study Biology.

Ian Joseph George Thomas

At CA Since: First Grade Powerful Experience: I attended the Advanced Leadership School in Young Marines, comprised of the top 50 Young Marines in the nation. I graduated the top Young Marine in my class as the Honor Graduate.

Community Impact Project: I taught a program for eighth graders about substance abuse prevention.

Favorite CA Tradition: Seeing Jacinto every morning at CA to Go. Jacinto is one of my favorite people on campus; he always has a smile on his face and brightens my day.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the American Government course I took junior year. It was one of my favorite classes.

Immediate Plans: Civil Prep for West Point at Marion Military Institute, Marion, AL to study Civil Engineering.

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Mathias (Matt) Theodore Tormaschy

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: Blowing up a beaker in chemistry.

Community Impact Project: I volunteered at a local food pantry.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim. You rarely get a chance to go on a trip with your best friends and teachers.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: Ultimate Frisbee and AP Physics classes.

Immediate Plans: University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, WI to study Biochemistry.

Peter Vukovich-Simonson

At CA Since: Eleventh Grade

Powerful Experience: Playing Varsity Basketball and all the fun times we had as a team.

Community Impact Project: Working with other students, we organized a charity basketball tournament to raise money for charity.

Favorite CA Tradition: Interim.

Immediate Plans: Concordia College Moorhead, Moorhead, MN to study Sports Science.

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Travis Anthony Washington

At CA Since: Ninth Grade

Powerful Experience: The first trimester of Digital Video in my freshman year. I met people from different grade levels and made friends whom I still have today.

Senior Service Project: I volunteered at a small K-8 school and helped children in the extended day program there.

Favorite CA Tradition: Color Wars on Giant Relay Day. It is a day where the high school comes together and works as a team to accomplish its goals.

Immediate Plans: Champlain College, Burlington, VT.

Madeleine (Maddie) Crawford Webster

At CA Since: Pre-Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: Traveling to Haiti in my sophomore year. The trip expanded my perspective on the world and helped me to better understand myself.

Community Impact Project: Another student and I solicited book donations so that the children that attended CA’s Students H.O.P.E. event for low-income families could each take home a storybook.

Favorite CA Tradition: Students H.O.P.E. Helping our community and giving back every holiday season is |really terrific.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember being able to go to school with my mom, who teaches Kindergarten at CA. I will remember going down to the Kindergarten just to hang out and going to have lunch with her whenever I want. Some may not like the idea of going to a school where your parents work, but it is what made CA such a home to me.

Immediate Plans: University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO to study Business.

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Hayden Wiseman

At CA Since: Sixth Grade Powerful Experience: Winning the State Championship with the Boys Soccer Team.

Community Impact Project: I raised donations for the victims of the earthquake in Nepal.

Favorite CA Tradition: The Senior/Kindergarten Buddy Program and Senior “Retreat Day”: traditions that have been around a long time and that you look forward to participating in.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember the soccer team and the guys I’ve played with. My memories on Firman Field will stay with me forever.

Immediate Plans: Sewanee: The University of the South, Sewanee, TN.

George Charles Younger

At CA Since: Kindergarten

Powerful Experience: My senior service project. Tutoring kids in math and seeing how excited they were to learn new things every day was a really powerful thing, and it taught me that giving back to the community at large is extremely important.

Community Impact Project: My project involved tutoring children in math at an underprivileged school where 90% of the kids are on a federally funded lunch program.

Favorite CA Tradition: The first day of school with the seniors welcoming the freshmen. It’s cool to watch everyone grow up, knowing that those freshmen will someday be doing the same thing for another group of new students.

What I’ll Remember in a Decade: I will remember how tightly knit our class was. Maybe it’s just because I’ve been at CA for 13 years, but it’s always felt to me that our class was really close, and I’ll always remember that familial bond I felt with everyone.

Immediate Plans: Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA to study Computer Science or Mechanical Engineering.

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COLORADO ACADEMY 3800 South Pierce Street • Denver, CO 80235 Phone: (303) 986-1501 • Fax: (303) 914-2583 info@coloradoacademy.org • coloradoacademy.org

colorado academy mission

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.

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CA Senior Journal - Class of 2016

CLASS OF 2016

senior journal

Class of 2016

ABOUT THE COVER:

The Class of 2016

Class of 2016 Commencement Dinner

MENU

APPETIZER SALAD

VEGETARIAN ENTRÉE

DESSERT

CHILDREN’S ENTRÉE

Class of 2016 Commencement

Caroline Elizabeth Adams

Andrew Hamilton Aertker

Cameron (Cam) William Allan

Gabriella (Ella) Catherine Annest

Kiira Victoria Antenucci

Emerson (Emmy) Kate Baer

Nicholas (Nick) Lambert Bain

Martha (Martie) Dickinson Baker

John Peter Barron

Justin Bassey

Christina Marie Bear

Piper Noble Bittman

Spencer Noble Bittman

Brianna (Bri) Wahneta Michele Bullock

Addielee

(Addie) Hannah Bush

Kathryn (Katie) Pearl Cahn

Edward Norman Cain

Linnie Marie Cole

William (Will) Forrest Creedon II

Evan Marie Doherty

Brent Miles Edwards

Tara Ann Edwards

John (Ty) Tyler Fairbairn

Megan Aline Fitzgerald

Bre’Ajahe (Bre) Floyd

Noah Andrew Forman

Albert Jerome Frantz

Isabelle Patricia Fries

Jack Walter Funk

Nicholas (Nick) Cooper Fuselier

Anna Mai Gallagher

Kacey Maria Zhu Godwin

Sarah Barbara Goldman

Tess Rose Hankin

Noah Francisco Hernandez

Maryam Husain

Christian Robert Hyatt

Peter Colin Jeffries

John Raymond Kasel

Zach Ugo Kasica

Julia Wetten Kelly

Thomas (TK) Robert Kidder

Rachel Soon-yong Kim

Elise Evelyn Korneffel

Mara Taylor Krutsinger

Heather Endo Kurtz

Dat Van Le

Angelina Lisa Leonardi

Victoria (Tori) Emalee Lim

Samantha (Sammy) Ann Little

Melissa (Sage) Sage Lochhead

Lorenzo Luis Lopez

Loida Elizabeth Luna

Nicholas (Finn) Finnian Mahoney

Jordan Erica McLeod

McCulloh (Mac) Keating Mease

Alexander (Alex) Robert Medema

Jacqueline (Jackie) Noelle Melberg

Max George Messner

Anne (Annie) Morgan Miller

Samah Elyas Mohamed

Chloe Arielle Nosan

Winston (Winnie) Weiss Palmeri

Katherine (Kate) McVey Pearson

Clara Petch

Rebecca Popara