the class of 2025
Community”
Head of School Charley Stillwell reflects on the heart of the Class of 2025.
Family”
Head Monitor Brunson Wickham ’25 realizes that the more things change at Episcopal, the more they stay the same.
“Love Sustaineth”
Dr. Anthony Sgro P’25 ’28 reminds the Class of 2025 that love is all they need.
“The Compass We Carry” Valedictorian Ruby Gonzalez ’25 takes the audience on a tour of her own map of Episcopal.
School Archivist Laura Vetter details the
Four Columns is published annually for alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends of Episcopal High School.
48 Years of Service: A Tribute to Rick Stubbs upon His Retirement
“Be Generous in All Ways”
Jenner Wood ’70 P’06 accepts the Integrity in Action Award posthumously for Lettie Pate Evans, the School’s most significant and generous benefactor.
Learning Lessons Bravely, Faithfully, and Happily
Senior Doruk Konak and brothers Ashby and John Wickham ’16 reflect on their Episcopal journeys.
“It’s Okay to Be Learning” Communications extern Logan Dearing ’25 highlights some transformative externship experiences, from the D.C. Superior Court to an OB-GYN office and the Alexandria mayor’s office.
Lessons Learned at Episcopal Seniors share their biggest takeaways from their time on The Holy Hill.
Episcopal High School does not discriminate in its admissions, or in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, or in access to or treatment in any other school-administered program on the basis of religion, race, color, sex, ancestry, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or any other protected category in accordance with
“True Community”
Head of School Charley Stillwell thanks the Class of 2025 for its leadership.
I want to send a special welcome to all the parents and grandparents and other family members and friends of our graduates who are with us today and thank you for the many hours of care and guidance that you have given to this very special group of seniors in front of you. They and the school have benefited greatly from your love and support.
We will forever be grateful for the remarkable leadership example that your Class of 2025 has set for all who follow.
Seniors, I do hope you will take time today and in the future to thank all those who have guided you along the way to this very special moment, from your family and friends to our wonderful faculty and staff. I know your parents join me in being especially grateful for the talented and dedicated adults here who have gone above and beyond the call over the past four years in supporting you through good times and bad and helping you be your best selves… .
As you all know, a ceremony like this and our special events from yesterday are only possible through the hard work of many individuals. Please join me in thanking our terrific maintenance, grounds, and housekeeping staff; our amazing dining hall staff; Rev. Betsy Carmody and her vestry team; our special Baccalaureate presenter, Dr. Anthony Sgro; Mrs. Forsythe, our Director of Events; and Mrs. Lang in my office for their hard work and preparation this week to help make this weekend so memorable.
Before moving to the rest of the program, I would like to take a brief moment to share my personal thanks with this group of seniors. From their first weeks back on campus this past August, these seniors have fostered an amazingly positive and caring tone in supporting the younger students and guiding the School, and they have set an impressive example in so many areas of school life.
When these seniors arrived as new students, many of them already had well-established gifts and talents that they have shared generously with our community. This class includes gifted writers, historians, mathematicians, engineers and computer scientists, amazing singers, beautiful instrumentalists and dancers, talented artists, students dedicated to countless hours of service in the community outside our gates, and impressive athletes — 20 of whom will continue with their sport at the college level — and one international level climber. This class has also developed a remarkable level
of friendship and close personal bonds that has helped them accomplish so much together. They have found so many creative ways to have fun with each other and have kept a healthy perspective and maintained a sense of humor that has been mostly appropriate which has helped them navigate the hectic nature of junior and senior year and thrive in so many areas.
I have also appreciated the tremendous growth that this group has experienced over the past four years. While some of our seniors brought well established talents with them, many of these seniors arrived still exploring different paths and wondering where they would make their mark. There were moments, especially in ninth and tenth grade when maturity was a struggle for a number of these seniors. I have been incredibly proud, however, to watch these students emerge during their time here and step up this year in particular as helpful leaders building very positive school spirit and as important sources of support for our current younger students who now face similar maturity challenges.
These seniors also have taught us important lessons about what true community can mean. As our Young Republicans, Young Democrats, and Government Clubs helped us organize programs and moments to watch the election events this fall, I was so pleased that so many of our seniors wanted to watch these moments together, despite their different views, and to do so with curiosity and respect. Their enthusiasm for creating our new Senior-Freshman Buddy Program also reminded us that kindness and putting the needs of others ahead of our own lie at the heart of true community.
As you depart from campus today, please know that we will forever be grateful for the remarkable leadership example that your Class of 2025 has set for all who follow. Your families, the faculty, the staff, and I are so proud of all that you have accomplished and how impressive you have become. We hope that you will return to The Holy Hill often to visit with us and let us know about all the wonderful things you will do in the future.
Watch the ceremony.
“One Family”
Head Monitor Brunson Wickham ’25 looks back on his time on The Holy Hill and realizes that, despite constant change, Episcopal’s timeless values and experiences remain the same.
… On the eve of our graduation, I would like to explore two questions. Who is the Class of 2025 now? And what makes Episcopal special?
In trying to answer these questions, I sought counsel from classmates, teachers, and former Head Monitors. Two themes emerged. The first is that while the Class of 2025 is incredibly diverse in our interests, personalities, backgrounds, we also are deeply unified and bonded. The second is that Episcopal is a place of constant change, and yet it somehow remains the same.
Hearing these contradictory conclusions evoked a certain feeling, the feeling I get after leaving statistics — a bit of confusion. And at this point, you may be feeling the same way. To work through this confusion, let us start by looking at the Class of 2025. How are we different, yet unified?
Well, our class is one filled with different interests, talents, and backgrounds. In the classroom, Mr. Pratt described David Song as “a once in a generation computer scientist.” (Keep us in mind when you’re running your own tech firm, David.) Victoria and Adele got A’s on a paper in Ms. George’s class, which we all thought previously was impossible.
In athletics, we witnessed our classmates break records and become players of the year: specifically Jack Bonello, Henry Cunningham, Ava Reese, Osi Onwudiwe, Reed Phillips, and Max Yang.
In the arts, the cast from “The Addams Family” blew us away with a riveting performance, and Jarett consistently inspired with his talent on the piano. The dance team produced an
epic recital last week and Annabelle and Gigi created masterpieces that hang on the walls of Ainslie Arts Center.
We are also from different backgrounds. Our class represents 21 different states and 11 countries, and we have 13 classmates who are faculty kids (which is the most ever). Those 13 have made their home our home. …
This year, we have shared a senior sunrise, snowball fights, and a senior slip and slide. We spent hours at Mark Mills’ desk in the Athletics Center, or hours speaking broken Spanish with Ms. Irma, whom I will always love even though she still thinks I am Carson Cowburn.
But while these experiences bind us together, what truly unites our class is our shared values of kindness and support. When we decided to send out sign ups for a new Senior-Freshman Buddy Program, we did not know what to expect. But by the end of the first day, we had 95 seniors who had signed up. 95. Our class saw a chance to have a positive impact on a new student’s time here, and we took it.
I think Mr. Stubbs said it best when I asked him what defines our senior class (and he has seen 5 decades of them). By the way, Mr. Stubbs is retiring this year, and we will always consider you a part of the Class of 2025. He stated, without hesitation, “I’ll remember your class as one that picks other people up.” In our time here, we have supported each other with energy, heart, and enthusiasm. …
Alright, one question down. Now, what makes Episcopal special? As Head Monitor Tom Archie ’90 said, “the more things change here, the more they stay the same.”
We’ve grown up together, seen each other change and mature, and in the process, made this our home.
Since its founding in 1839, Episcopal has changed tremendously. We, as a class, arrived here in 2021 in a fast-changing world. Near the end of Covid, during the rise of artificial intelligence, we arrived during “unprecedented” times.
Similarly, EHS has been ever-transforming. We have seen the construction of new dorms, a new health center, and saw Dal as a girls’ dorm. We saw an Episcopal without Orah tiles (yes, there was a simpler, perhaps better time, underclassmen, where “tiling in” did not exist). Several babies arrived into our community. We have seen a huge development of the MRC days and Washington program. You get the picture: Episcopal is an evolving place.
But when I reached out to different past Head Monitors to hear their description of EHS, I realized that even with all this change, the core, the essence of the EHS experience has stayed the same.
As Head Monitor Boota deButts ’76 said, “At Episcopal you have to grow. You don’t have a choice.”
As we, the Class of 2025 reflect on our time here, it is evident just how much we have grown, with the support of our faculty, our families, and each other. It has not always been easy, but we have challenged ourselves, and bettered ourselves as a result.
a result, we will be prepared for whatever may lie ahead.
We often hear in student speeches about Episcopal that EHS is a family, but that is because it is true. The faculty here are simply remarkable, from their expertise in the classroom to their genuine care for our wellbeing and development. …
The teachers here have been our parents away from home. And we, too, care deeply about them, so much so, we even let them win the student faculty basketball game, again, as they do every year.
And for our bond as students. We arrived as kids, nervous, and full of energy. We were often alone and individuals. But in our time here, we have become brothers and sisters. All of us. And no matter where we go, we will always share this bond. We’ve grown up together, seen each other change and mature, and in the process, made this our home.
As my brother Edward said in his valedictory address on this stage 10 years ago, “I now feel like I am part of something bigger than myself. We belong to the School and to each other.” Like I said, some parts of this experience just never change.
Look around, this may be the last time we are all in a room together. You all have changed my life and likely each other’s. It has been an honor to be a part of our class, and each of you has made this group so special. We arrived as individuals, but we will graduate as one family.
When I arrived here, I remember being nervous to speak, even in small groups. Today, a short four years later, I have the honor to speak in front of hundreds of people in this room. In hindsight, you may have preferred the quieter me. EHS forces you to develop and encourages you to take chances. As Watch Wickham’s speech in full.
“Love Sustaineth”
This year’s baccalaureate address was given by Dr. Anthony Sgro P’25 ’28. In his sermon, he encouraged graduates to look around them and feel the unconditional love in Callaway Chapel. Despite the uncertainties ahead for the graduating class, Dr. Sgro reminded them that God’s love is constant and will remain with them always.
I grew up the son of two college professors at Virginia Tech. I remember well the end of the school year: the final classes, the exams to be given, and the stacks of grading to finish. There were graduation parties and traffic jams in Blacksburg as parents arrived to move students out of the dorms.
And there was, admittedly, a certain excitement about the quiet summer to come both on campus and in town. The end of the academic year carries its own hum of energy and transition.
Now, I am an educator myself. Over the past thirty years, I’ve attended more graduation ceremonies (and proms, for that matter) than I can count. Each graduation full of promise and expectation. Today is no different. We are gathered in a moment charged with joy, reflection, anticipation, and yes, a little anxiety.
What makes today truly special are the people surrounding you. All around you are people who love and care about you.
Your faculty are filled with both hope and wonder. They’ve walked beside you, watched you grow, and now they send you off with better minds and habits for success. They have started you on an intellectual journey that they hope will last a lifetime.
Your grandparents are here with hearts simply full of love. No expectations. No strings attached. Just unconditional love.
Your parents or guardians are holding a complicated mix of nostalgia, anxiety, pride, and hope. They remember the little you, and they think about what the coming years will bring.
They have dreams and aspirations. They love you more than you can know.
And you, the graduates, are just thinking about the getting the diploma tomorrow and the celebrations to come. You may be reflecting on graduation gifts and maybe a beach week trip. In the back of your mind, you may be asking yourself questions: What will next year bring? Will I make friends? Will I like where I am? What does life have in store for me?
Let me tell you: Life will bring you extraordinary moments.
You may find your calling. Perhaps it will be a major in college that excites you and sparks a career that brings purpose and passion to your work life.
You may find a partner, that one lasting love. The person who makes you the best person you can be.
You may have children; they will make you anxious and sometimes drive you crazy and you will love them in a way that you can’t even imagine.
But life will sometimes also bring hardship. (This is the part of this talk where my younger daughter would say, “Womp Womp.”)
You may have relationships that will fail. You may have a career that will stall or take turns you didn’t plan for. Illnesses may come to you and perhaps the people you love. Loss will touch you. These disappointments and challenges, though painful and difficult, are not signs of failure. They are simply part of life.
Let me tell you: Life will bring you extraordinary moments.
In fact, they may become your greatest points of growth. (But that is a sermon for another day.)
Today, you have a start on what you need to thrive through both joy and sorrow.
First, you have people who love you. These people who got you to this school and supported you to this moment. They are your parents, grandparents, guardians, mentors, teachers, advisors, and friends. They are not perfect. But their love is real, and it matters in your life on a daily basis. They want you to have a life full of success and happiness.
Second, you have earned a world-class education at Episcopal High School. You know how to think. You know how to analyze. You know how to communicate. These are foundational skills that will serve you in every aspect of your life. It will serve you in both your personal and your professional lives. This is a gift that can never be taken away. You will have this education for the rest of your life.
By attending a boarding school you have gained an education in the soft skills of working with people. You may have had to navigate irritating hallmates, operate in the complicated dynamics of team sports, be a performer in an ensemble cast on stage, and become your own advocate.
Third, you received your education in a place where people know you and care for you. Your teachers, coaches, advisors are invested in you. They are not just invested in your learning, but in your character also. They have nurtured in you moral courage, intellectual courage, and courageous action. They haven’t just prepared you for college or a job. They have prepared you for a life of meaning and purpose.
Finally, and most importantly, you have learned that you are a beloved child of God. We are all beloved children of God. This is the message of the Episcopal Church.
As the scripture today from Jeremiah reminds us, God has a plan for you. A good plan. A plan filled with hope, joy, and purpose. Even when the path is unclear and when the next steps feel uncertain, know that God’s love is constant. It will never leave you. You cannot be separated from it. It is unconditional. And it will last you through this life and beyond.
Through every celebration and disappointment, through every triumph and loss, God’s love will be there to sustain you.
You’ve already seen that love in action here at Episcopal High School. You saw it in the teacher who edited, edited and edited again your “The Great Gatsby” paper. You saw it in coaches who believed you could win even when you were doubtful, and your teammates were doubtful. It was in directors who taught you to dance even though you could not hear the beat in the music. It was in dorm parents who made cupcakes on your birthday. It was in your advisors who listened when no one else heard you and in friends who stuck by you even when you were not your best self.
So, as you prepare to depart The Holy Hill tomorrow, I hope you will do so in peace and joy.
Let go of the anxieties about what’s next. You are surrounded by love. You are equipped with gifts and skills to sustain you. God loves you.
“The Compass We Carry”
Valedictorian Ruby Gonzalez ’25 reflects on her time at Episcopal — as both a “faculty kid” and a student — through the metaphor of a well-worn map.
… If you are given a map in books, movies, or video games, you know an adventure is about to take place. The locations might be confusing or hold little value at first, but by the end of the journey, each place has meaning because it has charted fascinating stories and fascinating characters. With personal maps in our lives, we fill them in with memories and experiences in unique ways and the maps cease to be flat drawings on the page. Episcopal is a place I have experienced from multiple perspectives, as a faculty kid, a worker, and a student. Though I’ve observed the same locations for 11 years, they have held various meanings and added new dimensions to this beautiful place where we find ourselves this morning.
In the beginning (2014), Episcopal was the Baker Science Center that housed epic Nerf gun fights. Episcopal was the Dalrymple patio where my dad helped found the Grill N Chill Club. Episcopal was the mats in Flippin Field House that taught me how to do a front flip, and, if you all look to your right at the beautiful Japanese maple tree in front of Evans, you might see the spot where I jumped on a branch, snapped it, and fell on my butt in the dirt. My mom was horrified because eight-year-old Ruby didn’t know that Japanese maple trees take a full year to grow one inch.
I gained a new perspective on my map when I worked on the grounds crew for two summers. Episcopal became the hoses I would drag across the Front Drive at 7 a.m. or the blessed shade as I trimmed ivy by the old McAllister Health Center. I saw Episcopal for its hidden irrigation boxes, poison ivy, and magnolia trees that never stopped providing leaves to rake after storms. …
We have all been the younger kids, looking up to older siblings, cousins, or friends, wondering what we will be like when we finally reach that stage. Maybe not everyone would hide in bushes to tackle their mom’s advisees, but high school looked different when we were younger. We all saw this place and wondered what it would be like. I know this is true even if you are not a faculty kid like me. Some of you have older siblings, a father, mother, uncle, or grandfather who attended this place. You may have been dragged to The Game for years, bought candy at the concession stand, and tossed a football near the end zone. Or, you may have only encountered Episcopal jet-lagged and 10,000 miles away from home on a sunny day in September. …
In four years, we have all found our destinations on this campus: stops on our maps that mean so much to us, whether we spent time there for a moment, every afternoon for a season, or every single day. … These locations are highlighted in our minds, defined by the sweet and sour memories, and now hold great significance and deeper meaning.
Without a doubt, our perspective of this campus has changed because we have changed. As shown by Doruk no longer needing a stool to reach the Chapel podium, we have all grown and changed perspectives, becoming more thoughtful, open, and growing into incredible leaders. In the same way that this campus has grown and changed in our time with two new dorms, the deButts Health & Wellness Center, and a giant new quad to make our own, we are leaving as different people, too.
...we have all grown and changed perspectives, becoming more thoughtful, open, and growing into incredible leaders.
Despite our transformations, I can confidently say one thing has remained the same. Our heart. Acting as our map’s compass, always guiding us through every journey, the heart of the Class of 2025 is definitely our most defining characteristic. We have always been passionately gutsy, ready to charge head-on into any situation, even if it sometimes gets us in trouble. Since freshman year, we have been the loudest to cheer at Friday Night Lights, the first to shout that dorm games is rigged (which it is), and the most enthusiastic audience when someone works up the courage to share their talents with the School. …
Despite the highs, we have had our lows, losses that weighed heavily and dampened the days. Moments where we made mistakes of all shapes and sizes — even times when we thought we could not come back from what we left on the field, in the classroom, in a friendship, or on dorm, we would not be us if our compass did not lead us back to the truth: that we never stop pushing.
Of course, none of our map-memory-making would have occurred without the crazy skilled group of adults sitting right there. Acting as our guides, the EHS faculty encouraged us to look within ourselves and ask the big questions. Wearing many hats, they’ve encouraged us as teachers, coaches, mentors, dorm heads, neighbors, and family
members, and we owe them so much gratitude. …
And now, it is time to say goodbye. Our maps are full of colors, annotations, highlights, and sticky notes on the most important places we will first remember when we hear the words “Episcopal High School.” …
Next year, most of us will look at different campus maps. … We will create new memories with new destinations, and meet new people who define our experiences, and though we may fold and put away this map, only looking back at it when we scroll through our camera roll, it will always be with us. We will take the lessons from our mentors who have molded and forged us into knowledgeable and considerate individuals, and we will take every memory from The Holy Hill. Every triumph and tribulation that praised or challenged us. Every relationship where we found someone who made us be better, laugh harder, and never give up. Finally, we will carry our compasses. The heart that we started with and that has consistently guided us will follow us out but with clarity from an older, wiser, you. … This is our time, and I can’t wait to see the places the Class of 2025 will go and the amazing things we will do.
Watch Gonzalez’s speech in full.
Ruby with her parents, EHS Head Chaplain Rev. Betsy Carmody and Eddie Gonzalez
More Than a Piece of Paper
A history of the EHS diploma from School Archivist Laura Vetter.
The Episcopal High School diploma, signed by each faculty member in order of seniority, is a unique testament to each EHS student’s accomplishment, as well as the meaningful relationships forged here. While reflecting on the signatures on his own diploma as he signed diplomas himself, Tim Rogers ’79 said, “Each one I can look back at, even today, and associate those names with the wisdom they imparted, their classroom manner, the way they made me feel proud of the work I was doing.”
Episcopal’s first diplomas were not awarded until 1899 to Charles Hartwell Cocke and Edgar Snowden. Until that time, and even for many years after, students who completed the highest-level courses in the Classics, mathematics, and English were considered graduates of Episcopal High School, regardless of whether they received an actual diploma. As former Principal Launcelot Blackford explained in 1880, “We give no certificate as of graduation of the school, but consider any one as a graduate who has been distinguished in both examinations in the highest classes…” This distinction was acknowledged with individual certificates awarded in each subject attained.
Now that I am Dean of Faculty at EHS, my diploma reinforces the sacred duty I have to help our teachers be at their very best for each of these students. To know that a whole phalanx of faculty members spent parts of their lives caring for me in my formative years — and that I can see their signatures from so long ago — inspires me to do the same for all of our students now.”
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Lucy Whittle Goldstein ’97
The decision to issue diplomas may have developed either internally or arisen in response to colleges and universities requiring proof of high school graduation. Even with this trend, it was not uncommon for EHS students to advance to college without having fulfilled all of Episcopal’s requirements for graduation. Particularly during the World Wars, satisfying Episcopal High School’s graduation requirements was deprioritized by students who enlisted straight out of high school, but they still found they were well prepared upon matriculating to universities following their service. While diplomas are not among Episcopal High School’s oldest traditions, they are certainly among our most cherished.
FRAMING YOUR FUTURE: PRESERVING YOUR DIPLOMA
1 Do not lose your diploma. It is unique.
2 Keep your diploma in a dry space with a consistent temperature. Avoid storing your diploma in a basement or attic.
3 When framing, make sure acid free materials are used, as well as UV filtering glass to protect from light damage. A mat should be used to prevent contact between the diploma and the glass. Your diploma should not be permanently adhered to a backing board.
As a boy, Page Dame III ’59 would admire his father’s diploma, proudly displayed in his law office. His father, Page Dame Jr. ’27, often reflected on the impact of those who signed his diploma. Thirty-two years later, five of those same faculty members would sign the younger Dame’s diploma. “Going from ink on my father’s diploma to flesh and blood individuals I saw every day for five years gave them a larger-than-life aura they fully deserved,” Dame said of those mutual beloved teachers.
Certificate of Distinction Awarded to Rutherfoord Fleet Class of 1898
Watch a recap of this year’s diploma signing.
Diploma Awarded to Dean of Faculty Lucy Whittle Goldstein ’97
1927
1997
1898
Honoring Excellence
ARCHIBALD EUBANK SUTTON JR. MEMORIAL MEDAL
To the Valedictorian
Katrina Reed writes: The parents of our valedictory speaker selected a perfect name for their daughter back in 2007: Ruby. This exceptional young woman has embodied the brilliance of a precious gem throughout her time at EHS. Her sparkling intellect, rare emotional maturity, and shining leadership have permeated all corners of this community. As Ruby’s advisor, teacher, and neighbor, I have joyfully witnessed her brilliance firsthand. From the classroom to the choir, softball field to the stage, from Table 90 to the Honor Committee, she has made Episcopal a better place, and her legacy will reverberate long after this graduation day ends.
RUBY GONZALEZ ’25
THE J. MICHAEL MILLER AWARD for Senior Scholarship
Jessie George writes: It’s rare to find someone as talented and well-rounded as this student: someone who excels in math and English, computer science and French, physics and photography. It’s even rarer to find someone as kind, patient, and thoughtful. But that’s exactly who this student is: an intellectual superstar, driven by an unquenchable curiosity and deep love of learning, AND a genuinely wonderful human being who has dedicated countless hours of his time to helping others as a tutor, TA, and friend. Four years ago he earned the award for the highest freshmen-year academic average, and it is only fitting that he bookends his EHS career with this award.
DAVID SONG ’25
THE PATRICK H. CALLAWAY PRIZE for Excellence in Theology
Dr. Becky Keller writes: Many second semester seniors are prone to senioritis: hitting the snooze button rather than being on time for class, zoning out during lectures, doing the bare minimum. This student, however, showed a willingness to put in the effort and do his best, right up to that final class meeting. He was always willing to ask and answer tough questions and keep the conversation going deeper and into new realms. His curiosity and passion for excellence make him an ideal candidate for this honor.
JACK DAUGHTREY ’25
Sanaa Baldwin ’25
THE ARTHUR WAXTER FAMILY AWARD for Excellence in Visual Arts
Liz Vorlicek writes: Georgia O’Keefe said, “To create one’s own world in any of the arts takes courage.” This student’s intricate acrylic paintings of gorgeous mountainscapes and boutique shop windows stopped people in their tracks in the Ainslie Arts Center. She pushed her creativity further in brave and compelling ways in the live portrait painting on the stage of Pendleton Hall. Her courageous artistic journey will continue as she travels to Michigan to study and expand her vision in all things.
ANNABELLE CLARK ’25
THE ALEXANDER JENNETTE JOHNSTON AWARD for Excellence in Performing Arts
Michael Windsor writes: Whether in the choir room, the orchestra, or center stage, this artist has consistently brought skill, heart, and an unshakable work ethic to every rehearsal and performance. Over the years, his presence has become a cornerstone of the Episcopal arts community, stepping up as both a performer and a leader, always ready to support others and exceed expectations. With an ever-present positivity that inspires everyone around, this artist has truly made an impact that will be felt for years to come.
MAC HALM ’25
THE GUY BLAN NEWCOMB MEDAL for Excellence in Modern or Classical Languages
Alec Robinson writes: This student arrived at Episcopal with English as a second language. But now, he leaves as a true polyglot who has done stellar work in three more languages than the two he arrived with: Latin, ancient Greek, and Spanish. If that were not enough, this student also used his other linguistic talent, computer programming, to create a searchable, digital index of Episcopal’s rare books collection. This contribution was the fruit of his own initiative and, just like his demeanor in class, it was done with no regard for recognition of his genius. It is therefore fitting that we congratulate him in Russian, his first language, by saying “Mahl-uh-dyets.” (Well done.)
ARHIP DMITRIEV ’25
Jack Daughtrey ’25
David Song ’25
THE EVELYN PRETLOW RUTLEDGE AWARD for Excellence in Science
Luke Peterson writes: This award is a testament to this individual’s journey through the sciences at EHS. Everpresent and consistent, this student embodies the definition of a scientist. Challenging herself in Advanced Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Physics, she sought out connections between seemingly disparate fields, finding the underlying threads between far-flung concepts. Her time in Baker Science Center has been well spent: exploring the world, offering a helping hand to peers, asking thought-provoking questions, and continuously reveling in the simple joy of the learning process.
SARAH RAE KIM ’25
THE DAVID TUCKER BROWN JR. AND EDWARD TRIGG BROWN PRIZE for Excellence in Social Studies
Dr. Ryan Pemberton writes: Known for her maturity, intellectual curiosity, respectful discourse, and the ability to weave multiple complicated ideas into a clearly articulated whole, this student took a total of nine different social studies classes while at EHS. She moderated all-School programming, including a discussion with the president of the Brookings Institution; interacted with other high school students at a national conference about civic engagement; and volunteered on a presidential campaign at an externship on Capitol Hill — proving her ability to connect learning in the classroom to real-world leadership opportunities.
ABBY SLAP ’25
THE LLEWELLYN G. HOXTON MEDAL for Excellence in Mathematics
Lionel Rauth writes: Math and science tutors are typically selected more for their patience and organizational skills than their academic ability, but it is convenient when they also happen to be the strongest math student in the school. William Paul Thurston said, “Mathematics is not about numbers, equations, computations, or algorithms; it is about understanding.” This student mastered the numbers, equations, computations, and algorithms of the curriculum — and a healthy portion of college-level concepts as well — but it is his passion for inculcating understanding, both in himself and others, that marks him as a true mathematician.
ERIC SHIN ’25
Annabelle Clark ’25
Arhip Dmitriev ’25
THE RINEHART MEDAL for Athletic Worth
THE JOSEPH
BRYAN
MEDAL for Excellence in English
Hugh Koeze writes: This student’s written pieces are difficult to grade. Her writing is driven by a deeper imperative than the grade: to explore nuance, to offer complex ethical insights, and to face the mysterious nature of life. For her, the thesis is never the point; in a parenthetical aside in the middle of the third paragraph, she will drop a comment so profound that I have to stop reading and take a walk. We have been fortunate to spend the last four years with her, and we look forward to seeing what insights she offers to a broader world.
MICHELLE ZHANG ’25
Rick Wilcox writes: This athlete had an outsized impact on the School community during his two years on The Holy Hill. Through his journey, he sharpened his will to win, while learning patience and resilience. He rose to meet every challenge and often rose up to hammer home goals — a lot of goals! Both skillful and gritty, his character and humility earned the respect of opponents, while his inspiring play and ability to meet the moment earned him the nickname “King” from his teammates.
OSI ONWUDIWE ’25
THE
JAMES H. FANNON
JR. FAMILY AWARD for Athletic Worth
Ingrid Boyum writes: The recipient of this year’s award stands out for her transformative leadership. Throughout her Episcopal athletic career, she excelled as a vocal and dynamic contributor across many disciplines. Her grit and uplifting spirit will continue to serve as her legacy at Episcopal athletics. Her teammates will always remember how she made them feel.
SANAA BALDWIN ’25
THE QUENTIN ROOSEVELT PRIZE for Character
Steven Keith writes: This student is a shining example of excellence both in the classroom and in the community. His quiet humility contrasts with his remarkable achievements as a student and gifted musician. With a kind heart and a deep respect for those around him, he leads by example — uplifting others through compassion and integrity. His eagerness to embrace challenges and grow beyond his comfort zone reflects a maturity well beyond his years. Whether solving complex problems or performing with grace and passion, this student consistently demonstrates dedication, discipline, and empathy. He is not only a scholar and artist, but a young man of great character and promise.
JEREMY LIN ’28
Mac Halm ’25
Sarah Rae Kim ’25
THE ARCHER ANDERSON WILLIAMS AWARD for Big Brother/Big Sister
Chris Davies writes: That this student was recognized by our newest students as a leader should come as no surprise to those who know her. Some of our Emerging Scholars have been looking up to her on our campus since before she even enrolled at Episcopal, and her contributions to our community have been recognized by the adults who work with her in many ways. This award, though, speaks to her work behind the scenes and out of the view of her teachers. If there’s some truth to the adage about character being “what you do when no one is looking,” this award acknowledges that her character is second to none.
NATANIM BEKELE ’25
THE FIRST FORTYEIGHT MERIT SCHOLARSHIP to the Returning Girl who is a Spiritual, Moral, Physical, and Intellectual Leader
Whit Morgan writes: Having been here when the first forty-eight girls pioneered coeducation at The High School, I know firsthand the dauntless spirit those trailblazers embodied. They would be overjoyed to see this year’s recipient keeping the sisterhood alive. On the strength of her impish spirit, her compassion for others, and her quirky sense of humor, this amazing young woman has vaulted into the heart of this school, manifesting our highest ideals while taking part in the most humble tasks. Besides, she has a smile that could stop traffic — well, almost.
CLAIRE BRAXTON ’26
THE CLASS OF 2019 AWARD For Humility and Kindness
Jim Fitzpatrick writes: This student is a bright and thoughtful young man whose quiet confidence and genuine kindness leave a lasting impression on everyone he meets. Dedicated and insightful, he consistently approaches challenges with a calm determination and intellectual curiosity. His strong moral compass, compassion for others, and drive for excellence make him a natural leader, even without seeking the spotlight. We are excited to see him take his talents to Tufts University, where he is sure to thrive and have a positive impact in the community.
DAVIAN KING ’25
Eric Shin ’25
Osi Onwudiwe ’25
THE DAVIS AWARD for Community Service
THE LUCIEN MINER GEER SPIRIT AWARD for Inspiring the Entire School in All Phases of School Life
Amila Williams writes: You can find her sitting on dorm dispensing advice, screaming at the top of her lungs for a fellow student, or using her leadership positions to implement ways to improve our school. You may also know her as someone who plays with the campus children, leads a club, a conversation or her team as a captain. She is a quintessential scholar/friend/athlete and leader. She is funny, loyal, kind and “about business.” For these reasons and more she has captured the heart and confidence of our community.
SANAA BALDWIN ’25
The Rev. Richmond Jones writes: Were you to total the number of service hours accrued by this person, it could fill up a week’s worth or more of total hours. Not only did this person schedule and staff events of their own, they showed up continuously to help out their friends, and did so long before they were even a student here. Their dedication and care helped maintain and share a culture of passion and humble dedication that left an indelible mark on our Service Program that bettered us all.
RUBY GONZALEZ ’25
THE C. C. BALDWIN MEDAL for Sportsmanship in All Aspects of School Life
Natalie Davies writes: There is no better example of this student’s commitment to excellence in athletics and beyond than this past weekend. As a stalwart member of the dance program, she performed Friday night, including a gorgeous duet featuring original choreography. And on Saturday, she strapped on her spikes and closed out her Episcopal track career, winning all-state honors with her relay team. When asked how the two very significant time commitments were working together in her schedule, she replied, “Well, they just are.” This student is always ready to put her head down and put in the work with tenacity and grace, and without complaint.
SOPHIA APPIAH ’25
THE ROBERT JETT ROGERS MEMORIAL BOWL for Devotion to the Ideals and Traditions of EHS
This year, we have two recipients for the Robert Jett Rogers Memorial Bowl. Whit Morgan writes: She is a living, breathing advertisement for Episcopal High School, a poster child for the spirit, determination, and self-confidence we’d like to imbue within all our students before they walk across the stage and grab their diplomas. Each time she enters a room, the vibe changes immediately, and always for the better. Her impact has spilled beyond our gates, as her externship supervisors rave about how much the second graders with whom she works adore her. In truth, the EHS faculty would love to clone her, but, luckily, her parents already did that for us.
VIVIANE NOTZON ’25
Stefanie Smith writes: Edith Wharton once said, “There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.” During this student’s time at Episcopal, she was both. Her light didn’t just shine — it also highlighted others. In the classroom, she brought energy and enthusiasm, illuminating every discussion. As a student leader, teammate, and friend, she was her peers’ strongest advocate and greatest cheerleader. She modeled high standards while inspiring confidence in those around her, encouraging each of us to shine in our own way. We are grateful for the light she has brought to The Holy Hill, an impact that will remain undimmed and enduring.
VICTORIA NOTZON ’25
Michelle Zhang ’25
Abby Slap ’25
THE KELSO FAMILY AWARD
for the Senior Warden of the Vestry
The Rev. Betsy Carmody writes: This recipient’s English name means “Who is like God?” While she would never equate herself to the Divine, she strives to see herself and us as God does. We are human, full of flaws, capable of amazing things, and worthy of extravagant love. The meaning of her name, being in the form of a question, says everything about her leadership as senior warden this year. She asks great questions of her faith and our work, making us all better in the process.
MICHELLE ZHANG ’25
THE SCHOOL AWARD FOR DISCIPLINARY LEADERSHIP
To the Chair of the Discipline Committee
Mark Carter writes: It is said that true strength is saying the hard thing with a soft heart, and this year’s recipient is the embodiment of that truth. She seeks to understand, but more importantly, she helps others understand themselves. Her ability to ask the difficult questions with empathy and grace allows students to reflect honestly, take ownership, and begin the work of growth. With compassion and conviction, she helps repair the frayed fabric of the community and restores confidence in every student she has supported.
SOPHIA APPIAH ’25
THE AINSLIE FAMILY AWARD
for the Chair of the Honor Committee
Capt. Joe Eldred writes: “The purpose of life is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” Although written by American writer Ralph Waldo Emerson in the mid-19th century, these words perfectly describe this student. Displaying maturity and empathy beyond his years, he ensured that every student who appeared before the Honor Committee was always treated with dignity and respect. Through his dedication and commitment, he truly made an enduring impact on the EHS community that will echo for years to come.
LUCA MCGHEE CHAVEZ ’25
THE W. A. R. GOODWIN JR. MEMORIAL BOWL for the Head Monitor
Mike Reynolds writes: The great Virginian Booker T. Washington once wrote, “If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.” Servant leadership is something that is often talked about, but this student embodies that ideal. Always quick to make new students and visitors to our community feel welcomed, he is the last person at an event cleaning up and his servant leader mindset has been a great model for our entire community this year.
BRUNSON WICKHAM ’25
Viviane (left) and Victoria (right) Notzon ’25
Luca McGhee Chavez ’25
Adele Yu ’25
THE RECTOR’S GOLD MEDAL for Character and Scholarship
Lionel Rauth writes: In his 2016 Players’ Tribune article “Elite ‘Glue Guys’ 101,” Shane Battier describes what makes a player a “glue guy”: facilitating your teammates’ strengths on the court by shifting to any position, asking questions, taking extra reps in film and practice sessions, volunteering free time to organize team activities and dinners, and generally doing whatever is necessary to make the team better with no regard for ego or personal sacrifice. This year’s recipient is the “glue guy” of the Class of 2025. His list of talents and accomplishments is too long for this citation, but his time at EHS has been defined by a selfless attitude of giving to his classmates and our institution, with no expectation of reward or recognition. He’s a man of honor, wit, and humility, and the ultimate team player.
LUCA MCGHEE CHAVEZ ’25
THE
BOYD TAYLOR CUMMINGS MEDAL for Publications
Monika Viola writes: Leadership roles are sought out positions — for college applications, the title itself, or perhaps a chance to “call the shots.” But this recipient stepped into her role as Daemon Editor-in-Chief for something rarer: a love of literature and a desire to make space for others who felt the same. Since chosen as Editor-inChief two years ago, she has shaped a Daemon that is inclusive, collaborative, and deeply respectful of every voice it publishes. A gifted writer in her own right, she used her platform not to spotlight herself but to lift up others with her vision, care, and commitment to the EHS literary community.
ADELE
YU ’25
THE GEORGE WILLIAM LAIRD AWARD for Outstanding Photography
David Douglas writes: This young artist sits quietly at her desk, unassuming, but her incredible talent blares through her work. From one artist to another, I can see it as clear as day. Her talent gives me great joy and affirms my belief in the power of creativity and the teaching of art. Like Patti Smith in Just Kids, who wrote of being “transformed… by the revelation that human beings create art,” this young artist creates with quiet, personal intuition. Her work reflects an innate ability to see what others cannot, expressing emotion and insight through art in ways that feel both timeless and deeply personal.
ZOE WILLIAMS ’25
THE JOHNNY SMITH AWARD for Excellence in Music
Mike Schmidt writes: It has been an honor and a pleasure to witness this student’s growth over the past three years. She musically guides her peers with a natural gift that is intensely focused and determined, as well as loving and generous. A truly gifted musician, her musical maturity reflects the nuanced intuition one typically finds in seasoned professionals. Being a part of her inspiring journey has been a privilege, and I thank her for her dedication to the orchestra.
SARAH RAE KIM ’25
THE EDWIN WILSON AWARD for Theater Arts: Acting
Michael Windsor writes: Since ninth grade, this student has shown remarkable growth, unwavering dedication, and inspiring involvement in our theater program. He’s embraced a wide range of roles, bringing sharp comedic timing, emotional depth, and vivid characterization to every performance. In musicals or plays, onstage or off, each moment has been met with curiosity, care, and a growing confidence. From those early steps as a magical cat all the way to a man in love with the moon, his journey has been a joy to watch.
ERIK OLSEN ’25
THE EDWIN WILSON AWARD for Theater Arts: Dance
Adrienne Taylor-Wilson writes: This year’s recipient could have honestly been given this award in her freshman year. Legend has it that she started dancing in her mother’s arms as a newborn and just never stopped. During her time at EHS, she found a way to take every dance class offered, even putting her dancing skills to use on the tennis court when she was supposed to be working on her backhand. Her love of movement can be seen every time she’s on stage, and her exemplary effort and energy is evident in every performance.
LOREN JANE ROPER ’25
THE EDWIN WILSON AWARD For Theater Arts: Technical Performing Arts
Caroline Austin writes: This student has demonstrated unwavering commitment to EHS technical theater. He has shown an enthusiastic willingness to volunteer for event support across campus and to find opportunities off campus to hone his craft. He contributed to the production and run-crew of all three shows this season, coming in his free time, on weekends, during office hours, after his other afternoon options, or whenever else he had the chance. This technician’s positive attitude, willingness to help others, and ability to lead have been instrumental to our successful performing arts season.
MATTHEW WILSON ’27
THE CHARLES C. PLUMMER AWARD for Excellence in Choir
Mike Schmidt says: “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” This student’s initial step into the unfamiliar territory of choir, despite his understandable first-year apprehension and uncertainty, set in motion a threeyear journey of dedication, growth, and reward. Embracing the seemingly daunting risk of a new activity, he poured countless hours into mastering challenging choral scores. This commitment, this action, has yielded an equally significant reaction: a truly gifted singer, and a remarkable transformation. Among an exceptional group of senior leaders, this student’s courage and love for singing stand out.
MAZEN ASAD ’25
THE JOHN MONCURE DANIEL JR. SCHOLARSHIP AND BENJAMIN M. BAKER MEDAL for Excellence in United States History
Dr. Charlotte Taylor Fryar writes: At the height of the civil rights movement, James Baldwin reflected that “American history is… more varied, more beautiful, and more terrible than anything anyone has ever said about it.” This student understands, at the very deepest level, the complexity, the beauty, and the terror of our nation’s history. No matter the subject, she brings a well of profound curiosity and intellectual rigor to the study of the past — not just as an academic exercise but, as Baldwin writes, as the work required “to examine society and try to change it and to fight it… no matter the risk.”
PAIGE GOGOLAK ’26
Sophia Appiah ’25
Loren Jane Roper ’25
THE LAUNCELOT MINOR BLACKFORD MEDAL AND RICHARD PARDEE WILLIAMS JR. SCHOLARSHIP for Excellence in Classics Alec Robinson writes: It might seem that learning Classical languages offers only the dry business of reading and analyzing literature, without the convivial pleasure of conversation. And yet, the joy and intellectual enthusiasm this student showed for every aspect of Latin and Greek consistently gave the lie to this generalization. No matter the topic, she always wore a broad grin and spoke through her smiles as she offered answers and observations, from technical matters about the syntax of an epic poem to the rich way Sophocles depicted his tragic heroines. Her hard work, happy demeanor, and sheer joy made every class she was in a truly convivial place.
BLUEBELLE RICHERT ’25
THE DASH PIERCE AWARD for Excellence in Chinese
Julie Wang writes: What a joy it has been to teach this student in Chinese throughout his four years at Episcopal. He demonstrates an exceptional work ethic and has consistently performed at his best, even after his college acceptances, right up to the final class in Advanced Chinese. His high proficiency in Chinese language and culture will give him a competitive edge in the global economy. This foundation will enhance his studies in business and global affairs and prepare him well to thrive in a world where China’s influence continues to grow.
RYU HATTORI ’25
THE WILLIAM WINDER LAIRD MEDAL for Excellence in French
Eleanor Moore writes: This student has made the study of the French language a part of her life for many years, striving to capture those idiomatic nuances and perfect the particularities of pronunciation in order to increase her proficiency. An explorer with an open spirit and heartwarming smile, it was no surprise that she jumped at the opportunity to study abroad in Rennes, France, in spring of her junior year. She returned to us eager to share her enthusiasm for the French language and culture, and her passion for learning and expanding her horizons shone through her energetic determination and creativity.
ADDY LOCKE ’25
THE ROBERT L. WHITTLE MEDAL for Excellence in German
Hannah Ellington writes: Mastering one language is normal. Two, an impressive feat. But three? Rare indeed. An English and Spanish native speaker, this student took on the additional challenge of four years of German with enthusiasm, curiosity, and joy. More than holding her own in a class of talkative boys, she made a point of avoiding English at all costs, a habit started in German I. During the Austrian exchange, native speakers raved about her pronunciation and ease of speech, which she put to great use tutoring this year. For all she has brought to the German program, we give her our most heartfelt “danke schön.”
ANGELINA INIRIO ’25
THE SELBY BARNES PAPIN MEDAL for Excellence in Spanish
Dr. Luis Gamboa writes: This student is committed to understanding complex global issues through his thoughtful engagement with Latin American essays, novels, and short stories. His critical thinking has complicated and deepened our class discussions, fostering a richer exploration of Hispanic literature amongst his peers. He thinks, writes, and speaks in excellent Spanish. He has taken the initiative to broaden his worldview beyond his native Turkish tongue, and his English and French, which he speaks as second and third languages. With Spanish as his fourth language, he has quite the expansive view!
DORUK KONAK ’25
Matthew Wilson ’27
THE BENJAMIN I. JOHNS PRIZE for Excellence
in Biology
Luke Peterson writes: This award is a testament to this student’s exceptional dedication and passion for the field of biology. Beyond simple academic success, this award highlights this student’s desire to continually expand his knowledge, with the goal to discover thought-provoking connections between concepts. His consistent presence in office hours, whether it be to converse about an interesting part of a previous class or an unprompted desire to help his peers understand a nuanced topic, only further highlights this young man’s exemplary academic engagement.
NATHANIEL FAMILUA ’26
THE THOMAS E. KILBY III MEDAL for Excellence in Chemistry
Dr. Kim Olsen writes: This student approaches the study of chemistry with a deep-seated joy for the subject. She views chemistry as a dynamic puzzle, eagerly engaging with its complexities and finding true satisfaction in the process of discovery. Working with her peers, she is remarkably willing to tackle challenging questions, embracing difficult concepts as opportunities for deeper understanding. She conquers her work with a sense of humility and wonder, consistently impressing her teacher with not just her insight, but the thoughtful way she approaches learning.
ALLISON LEE ’25
THE SCHOOL AWARD for Excellence in Environmental Studies
Javier Bastos writes: This student embodies global environmental citizenship through her worldly perspective and passionate advocacy. She approaches her studies with both intellectual rigor and hands-on dedication — whether analyzing complex global challenges like fast-fashion’s devastating impact in Ghana or fearlessly immersing herself in muddy wetlands during our Chesapeake Bay expedition. Her insatiable curiosity drives her to tackle difficult concepts while her genuine commitment inspires those around her to meaningful action. She exemplifies the blend of academic excellence and practical engagement that will shape our future.
ALEXA BILLO ’25
THE LAWTON M. CALHOUN JR. MEDAL for Excellence in Physics
Dr. Kacey Meaker writes: This student has remained steadfast in his commitment to physics all the way through the end of a busy senior year — no senior slide. He approached every activity with equal degrees of enthusiasm. The most notable thing about him, though, is that he truly wants to learn everything there is to know about physics. Sometimes his enthusiasm ran away with him, like when he started inventing his own laws of physics to replace Newton’s laws, which, spoiler alert, did not go that well. However, his deep desire to gain true understanding of each and every problem before him in order to better understand the world around him may eventually lead to “Olsen’s Law.”
ERIK OLSEN ’25
OTHER AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS:
ALLEN C. PHILLIPS PRIZE DAVID SONG ’25
THE ALLEN CARLETON PHILLIPS AND WILLIAM EVANS HANNUM SCHOLARSHIP FOR ENGLISH SARAH JOHNSON ’26
DAVID DOUGHERTY WRITING PRIZE FOR BEST PIECE OF WRITING BY A 9TH OR 10TH GRADER ELIZABETH WAFULA ’27
THE GEORGE DUNLOP MEMORIAL PRIZE
MICHELLE ZHANG ’25
Charlotte Matiunas ’25
THE INGLE FAMILY THEOLOGY AWARD for Excellence in Theology
The Rev. Betsy Carmody writes: My hope as a teacher is that students leave our Biblical Theology class knowing that the themes of this book about the relationship between God and humanity, do not just live thousands of years ago. They are alive today because we still wrestle with how we treat one another and ourselves as valued parts of creation. This recipient displayed her mastery through prophecy, creeds, and gospel texts. Her ability to connect ancient scripture with the experience of a modern-day 15-year-old girl was engaging and outstanding.
AMIRAH JACKSON ’27
THE CHARLES FELLOWS PAGE AWARD for Excellence in Poetry
Katrina Reed writes: Clint Smith once said, “The idea of shared humanity and the connections that we make with one another make life worth living.” This student’s pieces served as connective tissue that bonded our poetry class together, whether it was a lighthearted Seminary Hill Cup sonnet or a heartfelt ode to pen and paper. He consumed all forms of poetry and festooned his own pieces with the flair of a seasoned writer. This young man remarked in his final portfolio reflection, “I’ve always wanted my words to mean something.” I’m certain his peers would agree that his words truly did.
HANK GREEN ’25
WILLIAM PAGE DAME AWARDS FOR 9TH/10TH GRADE CREATIVE WRITING
FIRST PLACE: ESSENCE BAGWELL ’28
SECOND PLACE: AURORA MCGOWAN ’27
LUCIEN MINER GEER SCHOLARSHIP FOR MATHEMATICS
ISABEL HOMER ’26
THE MARK HALE TEETER SCHOLARSHIP FOR MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES
GREY GIBBONS ’26
THE WILLIAM GARRETT BIBB MEDAL for Excellence in Shakespeare
Whit Morgan writes: Shakespeare’s character Touchstone quips, “The fool doth think he is wise, but the wiseman knows himself to be a fool.” Inherent here is a recognition of the value of humility, and this year’s Shakespeare medal winner could be the poster child for this trait. Despite her impressive grasp of the works we covered, she sought out every opportunity to learn more about the Bard. When she was shut out of the second-semester Shakespeare 2 class, she sharpened her elbows and forced her way in, saying, “I’ll just sit in the window sill!” This passion is what sets her apart. And as for humility, just watch her blush as she comes up to receive this well-deserved award.
CHARLOTTE MATIUNAS ’25
THE BENJAMIN IRVING JOHNS SCHOLARSHIP FOR BIOLOGY
MARIN CONDRAY ’26
WILLIAM RILEY DEEBLE III SCHOLARSHIP FOR SOCIAL STUDIES
KATHARINE MORRISON ’27
THE MIDDLEBURY COLLEGE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES
JACOB ORELUE ’26
ROBERT WIATT FARRAR COMMITMENT TO ATHLETICS AWARD
SANAA BALDWIN ’25
NATANIM BEKELE ’25
WILKES BROWN ’25
TRAMAYNE BULLOCK ’25
CHELSEA CAMPBELL ’25
ANNIE CARR ’25
JACK DAUGHTREY ’25
ALINA FU ’25
ANNA GREGG ’25
SOPHIA MAGLIO ’25
JUDAH OFORI-ANSAH ’25
REED PHILLIPS ’25
AVA REESE ’25
KEITH SONG ’25
THE SEWANEE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN WRITING
AMAYA KIM-SENIOR ’26
RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE CERTIFICATE FOR OUTSTANDING WORK IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE
JOE LEE ’26
MARTIN BALDWIN WHITAKER MEDAL FOR OUTSTANDING SENIOR EXTERNSHIP DEFENSE GIGI ABED ’25
The Whittle, Johns, and Meade Book Prizes
For more than a century, Episcopal has recognized academic excellence with book prizes that honor three former bishops of Virginia: the Rev. Francis McNeece Whittle, the Rev. John Johns, and the Rev. William Meade.
THE WHITTLE PRIZE For Academic Excellence
DAISY CAMPF ’25
RUBY GONZALEZ ’25
SARAH RAE KIM ’25
DORUK KONAK ’25
DANIEL LIU ’25
DAVID LIU ’25
LOLA MASON ’25
BLUEBELLE RICHERT ’25
SHERYL ZHA ’25
MICHELLE ZHANG ’25
JOHNS PRIZE For Eminent Academic Excellence
MAISIE HALLORAN ’25
RYU HATTORI ’25
ERIK OLSEN ’25
CAMPBELL SHELBY ’25
THE MEADE PRIZE For the Highest Level of Academic Excellence
CINDY LUO ’25
ALLISON LEE ’25
DAVID SONG ’25
ERIC SHIN ’25
MAX YANG ’25
Doruk Konak ’25
Daisy Campf ’25
Campbell Shelby ’25
David Song ’25
Allison Lee ’25
Max Yang ’25
Language Awards
The Language Department was thrilled to celebrate French and Latin students for their outstanding work this year.
FRENCH EXAM AWARD WINNERS
LEVEL 1
CATHERINE ZHONG ’28
Lauréat National –Médaille de platine
LEVEL 2
SHRAY CHANDWANI ’28
Mention d’honneur
ISA MOSCOSO LEON ’26
Lauréat National –Médaille de bronze
LEVEL 3
KATHARINE MORRISON ’27
Mention d’honneur
LINA RADI ’27
Mention d’honneur
LEVEL 4
VIRGINIA GOODWIN ’26
Mérite
LOUISE WILLIAMSON ’26
Mention d’Honneur
IVY TJOENG ’26
Lauréat National –Médaille d’argent
LEVEL 5
CAMPBELL SHELBY ’25
Mérite
MAIREAD RADTKE ’26
Lauréat National –Médaille de bronze
NATIONAL LATIN EXAM AWARD WINNERS
LEAH COPPOLAKARELIN ’28 Gold Summa Cum Laude
ARHIP DMITRIEV ’25 Silver Maxima Cum Laude
GIGI MCFARLAND ’27 Silver Maxima Cum Laude
AVA LIN ’28 Magna Cum Laude
CALEB POSTON ’26 Magna Cum Laude
GRACE WILLIAMS ’28 Magna Cum Laude
NOAH CHUNG ’26 Cum Laude
FOSTER FOGELMAN ’28 Cum Laude
Louise Williamson ’26
Isa Moscoso Leon ’26
Catherine Zhong ’28 Arhip Dmitriev ’25
Noah Chung ’26
The Cum Laude Society
Former Assistant Headmaster and current trustee David Dougherty ’64 returned to The Holy Hill for the Cum Laude Induction Ceremony to discuss the importance of teachers. Below is an excerpt from his speech, focused on his relationship with longtime EHS teacher and legend Patrick Henry Callaway. We encourage you to watch the full video to hear all of Dougherty’s beautiful insights and remembrances.
...as I congratulate Cum Laude inductees today, I encourage them — in fact all of you — to give thanks to your wise and far-sighted parents and to your great teachers for their gift to you. Now, this morning I will tell you about teachers, who helped to sustain and grow a legacy, begun here in 1839, of great teaching at EHS.
I have my stories. You have yours. Don’t ever forget them.
Patrick Henry Callaway, for whom our chapel is named, was in his seventy years as a teacher admired for his honesty, faith, and modesty. At first, we young boys thought him a phantom, an icon, a fifth-century St. Patrick on a medieval triptych. …
At 15, I finally realized that he was a real person, and began what would become a warm relationship with him that continued through my student and teaching and baseball coaching days (he was our official scorekeeper, rain or shine, for every home game). I wrote to him several times after my departure to become a headmaster in 1989.
However, I would not have recommended my initial approach to him. In my sophomore year, I failed plane geometry badly, and he required of me a summer re-exam, as a condition of my remaining in school. Because I lived in nearby Maryland, I shrewdly asked if I could come here to prepare for the re-exam, reasoning that in eight weeks, one-on-one with him, my tutor, I would know geometry, by osmosis.
Unfortunately, in my first lesson, Mr. Callaway read my scheming mind, which said, “Here I am. Make me know this stuff.” When I whiffed on his first two questions, he jabbed a gnarled index finger at me and bellowed, “You haven’t done anything. Go home and don’t come back until you’ve studied
the assignment.” He who never raised his voice had erupted at me.
Too stunned to cry, I raced to my home just inside the D.C. Beltway (before there was a D.C. Beltway) conceding that to know geometry I could not simply sit in a room with someone who already knew it. I hand-wrote theorems, chanted corollaries into an old tape recorder, played them back at bedtime, set them to folk music, and I learned them. And that was very hard work.
I passed the re-exam. Aced it. And with that accusing index finger — and about a dozen more rigorous lessons that summer, Mr. Callaway taught me about hard work. Hard work, I learned, is the fundamental condition of success, of everything worthwhile. I learned it from him, a great teacher, the hard way. …
In the late winter of 1996, when I was headmaster of The Hill School in Pennsylvania, an envelope arrived in my office, with a brief letter: “This is to advise you that Burke & Herbert Bank & Trust Company is co-executor of the estate of Patrick H. Callaway, who died on December 21, 1995 [at the age of 100]. Article Fourth of Mr. Callaway’s will provided a specific bequest to you of the enclosed check for $500.00.”
As on that hot summer day in 1962, when Mr. Callaway had thundered at me for my failure to prepare for our first class, I was too stunned to cry. He had at first been my geometry teacher; for years afterward I was his colleague, perhaps even a friend, on the faculty of this great school; he was always my mentor, my teacher. With that check in my hand, I fumbled through decades of thoughts about him. I was touched that near the close of his life he’d thought about me. What was he thinking? I think that Mr. Callaway was thinking — that he was proud that I was a teacher. I am too.
The Cum Laude Society, a national organization founded in 1906, recognizes juniors and seniors for outstanding scholarship, leadership, and character. This year’s inductees were:
FROM THE CLASS OF 2025
MAISIE HALLORAN, RYU HATTORI, KATIE JOH, DORUK KONAK, ALLISON LEE, LOLA MASON, LUCA MCGHEE CHAVEZ, ERIK OLSEN, AVA QIN, AVI QIN, CAMPBELL SHELBY, BRUNSON WICKHAM, MAX YANG, SUNOOK YOON
FROM THE CLASS OF 2026
LAUREN BAEK, CHLOE CHEN, NATHANIEL FAMILUA, GREY GIBBINS, CHARLOTTE JOHNSTON, AMAYA KIM-SENIOR, KYRA LAMPTEY, JOE LEE, WILLIAM MCCOLLUM, IVY TJOENG, TINA VU, LOUISE WILLIAMSON, JOSH ZHANG
Faculty Masterships and Incentive Awards
2025-26
COCHRAN MASTERSHIP FOR FINE ARTS
For Excellence in Teaching Fine Arts
MICHAEL A. WINDSOR
JOHN MONCURE DANIEL MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Teaching Social Studies
HEIDI R. HUNTLEY
DAVID R. DOUGHERTY MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Inspiring Students and Demonstrating the Joy of Teaching
KATRINA M. REED
NORMAN FARQUHAR AND GORDON
N. FARQUHAR MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Teaching
JULIE X. WANG
JOHN AND ISABELLA
GREENWAY MASTERSHIP
For Commitment to the Personal Development of Students in the Residential Life of the EHS Community
ANNA H. COLLINS
RIA HUMMEL MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Teaching Science or Technology
KIMBERLY G. ADAMS
JAMES G. KENAN LEARNING
FUND MASTERSHIP
For an Outstanding Teacher
KEVIN L. POTTER
ROBERT E. LATHAM MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Teaching
R. ALEXANDER ROBINSON
DR. SHIA-LING AND LILYON
CHEN LIU SENIOR TEACHER OF EXCELLENCE
J. WHITTELSY MORGAN
Captain Joe Eldred
Hadiyyah A. Abdul-Jalaal ’17
ROBERT E. MASON MASTERSHIP
For Fostering the Development of Strong Character and Self-Discipline Among Students Outside the Classroom
SUSAN R. BENTLEY
ELEANOR B. MCGAY MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Teaching a Foreign Language
ROCÍO MENDIZABAL
ALLEN C. PHILLIPS JR. MASTERSHIP
For an Outstanding Teacher
HUGH S. KOEZE
WILLIAM BEE RAVENEL MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Teaching English
JAMES A. BIONDI
GRIGSBY C. SHACKELFORD MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Teaching Mathematics or Science
KIAMANI J. WILSON ’14
CHARLES V. TOMPKINS MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Teaching, Character, Leadership, and School Service
DAMIAN C. WALSH
C.A. WOODRUM PUBLIC SERVICE FUND MASTERSHIP
For Excellence in Teaching Social Studies or Government
JOSEPH J. ELDRED
FACULTY INCENTIVE AWARDS For Young Professionals
HADIYYAH A. ABDUL-JALAAL ’17
THOMAS B. PRATT
LUKE K. PETERSON
CHARLOTTE T. FRYAR
Julie Wang
Luke Peterson, Tommy Pratt, and Dr. Charlotte Taylor Fryar
Hugh Koeze with his son Albie
2024-25 Whispers dedication
48 Years of Service
Longtime math teacher Rick Stubbs retires.
It is difficult to write a tribute piece for someone like Rick Stubbs. For the last 48 years, he has quietly, joyfully, and undoubtedly changed the lives of countless students and colleagues — without ever expecting recognition or praise for doing so. Stubbs invested almost 50 years for one important reason: his students. He treated his advisory like family, and generations of advisees found a home away from home in him. (He has even advised the sons and daughters of former advisees.)
Rick simply shows up. Again and again. You would be hard pressed to find anyone who has cared more than him.
young, inexperienced teacher,” said Mimi Schwanda, who began working in the math department when she was 22 and has worked alongside Rick for 18 years. “He taught me to raise the bar in my expectations of students, that they can do more than they think they can do. He taught me to celebrate their success and walk with them through their failures, both inside and outside of the classroom.”
In a speech delivered at his goodbye party, longtime colleague and friend Whit Morgan recounted a story of one of Stubbs’ advisees who struggled to stay focused in study hall: “Rick told him to come to his apartment every night and work at his dining room table while he graded papers. Rick also spent time with the same boy in Flippin Field House, hitting him ground balls before baseball season got underway, just as any father would for his son.”
Reflecting on his retirement, Stubbs spoke of his mentors — colleagues like Lucien Geer, David Hathaway, Dave Collins, and Dr. Kim Olsen. However, it may be more apt to speak of the many faculty members he mentored over his 48 years at Episcopal. “Rick made me feel seen and valued as a
Outside the classroom, Stubbs was known for being one of the School’s most devoted sports fans. “He would keep a printed schedule on his desk of every one of his advisees’ games or performances,” said fellow math teacher Lionel Rauth, “and you could find him every afternoon out on the fields attending their home games.” This devotion taught Rauth that being a teacher at Episcopal meant more than simply teaching geometry or calculus: “Rick saw himself as more than a classroom teacher, and the love his advisees and students showed for him was all the evidence you need that he was right.”
Morgan agreed that Stubbs’ devotion went above and beyond throughout his time at EHS: “Rick simply shows up. Again and again. You would be hard-pressed to find anyone who has cared more than him.”
Rick Stubbs walks to accept the
“Be Generous in All Ways”
Former EHS trustee and incoming vice-chair Jenner Wood ’70 P’06 accepts Integrity in Action Award on behalf of Lettie Pate Evans.
Each year, the Integrity in Action Award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to bettering our world. The recipient, in turn, presents the annual Phillips Integrity in Action Lecture on campus.
This year, the Integrity Action Award was given posthumously to Lettie Pate Evans, the School’s most generous and significant benefactor. Former EHS trustee and incoming vicechair Jenner Wood ’70 P’06 accepted the Integrity in Action Award on Evans’ behalf and delivered the Phillips Integrity in Action Lecture to highlight her incredible impact on the School. Wood serves as the chair of the Robert W. Woodruff Foundation, the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation, and the Lettie Pate Evans Foundation.
Wood began his talk with the history of Lettie Pate Evans, a trailblazer who changed countless lives with her generous philanthropy. “I hope I’ll be able to bring her to life because her life should have meaning to all of us in this room today,” Wood said, “and hopefully inspire in us a purpose in what we do every day and how we lead our lives.”
Raised in Baxton, Virginia, in the Episcopal Church, Evans came from modest means. Her husband, Joseph Whitehead, bought the rights to bottle Coca-Cola in 1899 for $1, “quite a bargain,” Wood laughed. When her husband died only seven years later, Evans “did the unheard of at that time… she took over and ran his business.” Wood stressed how unusual it was for Evans to run a company in 1906 and later sit on
a corporate board — long before women even had the right to vote in the United States. “She was exceptional,” Wood remarked, “and far more faceted than just being a good businesswoman.”
A lifelong philanthropist, Evans chose to give her money freely to education, arts, health care, the Episcopal Church, and more. “By the love of God,” Wood said, “Mrs. Evans made it her business to go about the world doing good.” In her will, she chose to fund 11 institutions, from Episcopal to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and
A PRAYER FOR THE DAY
God, we offer thanks for the life and work of Lettie Pate Evans and the impact she has made at Episcopal and other institutions.
We pray for your guidance and wisdom so that her example might lead us in our decisions.
We pray that you open our hearts and our minds to consider the legacy we can all lead in this place and in the world.
Father of all, we ask that you help push us to integrity in our thoughts and actions in your holy name.
Amen.
Berry College in Georgia, with “any income left” in her estate. “Those 11 institutions got to split $120 million this past year,” Wood told a stunned student body.
If Evans were in the room to accept the award, Wood believed “she would say thank you for being good stewards of my resources. And she would remind us to practice kindness, be obligated to help others, and be generous in all ways.”
Wood also reflected fondly on former EHS faculty member Allen Carleton Phillips Jr., for whom the lecture is named. “If there was anybody more ethical than Mr. Phillips,” he said, “I didn’t know him. There weren’t many people tougher than him either.”
The lecture ended with a Q&A, where students and faculty asked Wood about whether Evans ever visited Episcopal (she did not), his own journey with philanthropy, and perhaps the most hard-hitting question of the afternoon: Coca-Cola or Pepsi? The answer? Coke, of course, and the students then spilled out of Pendleton Hall and enjoyed cold Coca-Colas in honor of Evans.
The new plaque outside of Callaway Chapel honoring the legacy of Lettie Pate Evans
Learning Lessons Bravely, Faithfully, and Happily
Ten years ago, Beau Wilson Jr. ’72 came to Episcopal to speak at the last Chapel service of the year. In his talk, he spoke of a life-changing injury. As he recovered, Wilson kept returning to three words: “Fortiter, Fideliter, Feliciter,” the Latin motto of our School which translates to bravely, faithfully, and happily. Every year since, we have invited an alumnus or alumna and a graduating senior to speak about Episcopal’s impact on their lives. This year, we welcomed two alumni, brothers Ashby and John Wickham from the Class of 2016. Ashby and John are also brothers of this year’s Head Monitor Brunson ’25 and Edward ’15. Doruk Konak ’25 was our student speaker.
BE INTENTIONAL, OPEN, AND PRESENT
Ashby Wickham ’16 fell in love with guitar during his time at Episcopal. He admitted he originally signed up for Guitar 1 for an “easy A,” but he could not have predicted the passion that easy A would ultimately inspire.
Ashby went on to take more guitar classes, culminating in an independent study in Ainslie Arts Center while also forming a band with friends and practicing his craft at coffee houses on campus. He then studied music at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and continued to play in bands and meet some of his closest friends through music. It “became one of the most fulfilling and exciting parts of my life,” Ashby said.
Ashby used his journey with music as a metaphor for all Episcopal has to offer to its students. “This place really gives you the tools, the system, and the encouragement to try new things,” Ashby learned, while also acknowledging how hard trying new things can be. “When you put yourself out there, you become vulnerable and it means you’ll fail. I hate to tell you guys that doesn’t change.”
Ashby encouraged the audience to never stop pursuing passions in life — even and especially when the Episcopal ecosystem is no longer there to encourage them. “EHS has given you all the tools and the practice to go out and create a life that’s meaningful to you.” He implored the student body to take advantage of all the opportunities Episcopal creates. “You won’t know where these experiences will take you, but if you can be intentional, open, and present during your time here, trust that the resulting experiences will take you to some amazing places.”
IT WAS REAL, AND IT WAS SHARED
In true brotherly fashion, Ashby and John deftly shared the microphone from parallel pulpits. After Ashby spoke, John recounted a quote from one of his favorite books he read in Assistant Head for Academics Nate Ebel’s class at Episcopal, “Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer. A quote from the book, “Happiness is only real when shared,” has stuck with John ever since.
John took the audience back in time to the 2016 senior/ faculty basketball game, a beloved tradition full of trash talk and healthy competition that is often reminisced about years later. Current Assistant Dean of Students Eli Blair-May ’16 threw a beautiful assist to Stuart Ferber ’16 after stealing a rebound from a faculty member. “Swish,” John remembered. “The gym erupted; the stands cleared; and it turned into the biggest group hug I’d ever seen. Nobody remembers the score, nobody remembers who won, but everyone remembers that shot, because it was real, and it was shared.”
John used this moment as the perfect encapsulation of his time at EHS, but reminded the students that “it’s not just about the celebrations. It’s about the challenges, too, the nights that don’t go as planned.” Thanks to Episcopal, John learned that “some of life’s most meaningful moments are not solo acts. They come from being there for others, letting others be there for you.” Episcopal taught John that this type of community will show up through all the highs and lows: “What we do together is more than we could ever do alone.”
Because, at the end of the day, “Life is a little bit more fun, it’s a little bit less scary, and a whole lot more meaningful when it’s shared.”
STANDING ON MY OWN TWO FEET
Doruk Konak ’25, who gave the very first Class of 2025 Chapel Talk after the Burch Outdoor Program in 2021, beautifully bookended his class’ time on The Holy Hill during the last Chapel Talk of the year. As he began his speech, he cheerfully grabbed a stool under the podium and showed it to the crowd, reminding them that three years ago, he needed the extra height.
By the time he enrolled at Episcopal, Konak, who arrived from the Republic of Mauritius and now calls Turkey home, had gone to school in four different countries. “The concept of being the new kid was something I was familiar with,” he recalled. He spoke of the struggles of learning how to fit in. Because of his height (or “lack thereof,” he joked), he was a familiar and popular figure on campus. “People knew me, but they didn’t really know me,” Konak said. “I kept my real self locked away.”
To remedy his loneliness, Konak threw himself into extracurriculars. He began a food delivery service, affectionately coined “Doruk Dash” by the student body, and further retreated into himself, while still excelling in the classroom and on the tennis court.
At the end of his sophomore year, Konak recounted feeling defeated and applying for a single. “Why not just throw in the towel on finding close friends?” he asked himself. “I could just choose to avoid the emotions that came from connecting with people and sail through the last two years on my own.”
Thanks to a “blessing in disguise,” Konak did not get the single. Instead, he was assigned a double on Hummel Dormitory, the freshmen boys’ dorm, and began to branch out and connect with peers and underclassmen. “I started trying new things,” Konak said, “but this time, it wasn’t to keep myself busy. It was to spend time with my friends.”
Episcopal taught Konak the powerful lesson written by Dr. Seuss: “Be who you are and say how you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter, don’t mind.” Once he understood that quote, he blossomed in his friendships and in himself. “I spent this year surrounded by a group of friends who are my friends not because how I feel about them, but how they have made me feel about myself.”
As Konak prepared to graduate and leave EHS, the longest place he has lived in his entire life, he ended his Chapel Talk bravely, faithfully, and happily: “I can leave without the support of this stool, standing on my own two feet. Thank you, and may Allah bless The High School.”
Watch the service.
John (far left) and Ashby (second from left) Wickham ’16 with their parents, John and Charlotte, and brothers Brunson ’25 and Edward ’15.
Doruk Konak ’25
Signed, Sealed, Committed
Congratulations to these twenty EHS athletes who will continue their careers at the next level!
PRINCESS AKOJENU
basketball | Elmira College
“A captain for the Maroon this year, Princess embodied the selfless attitude that all teams need to be successful. She led the team in scoring, rebounding, steals, deflections, and blocks this season. Beyond the statistics, Princess demonstrated so many of Episcopal’s Portrait of a Graduate qualities to inspire and lead the team: acts with honor and integrity; collaborates with empathy and respect; seizes opportunities to learn; adapts with resilience, etc. We can’t wait to cheer her on as a Soaring Eagle!”
– Katrina Reed
SANAA BALDWIN
lacrosse | University of Rhode Island
“Sanaa served as a tremendous leader for the Maroon. In her four years on The Holy Hill, Sanaa transformed into the anchor of our defense. Her pivotal leadership and mentoring of younger players were instrumental to our team’s success. As a senior, Sanaa earned Second Team All-State, Honorable Mention All-ISL, and the Fannon Award for Athletic Worth. We look forward to cheering on Sanaa at URI over the next four years!”
– Ingrid Boyum
JACK
BONELLO
lacrosse | Providence College
“Jack capped off a decorated fouryear career in the Episcopal lacrosse program, earning numerous accolades including All-IAC in both 2024 and 2025, All-VISAA in 2024, and Alexandria Lacrosse Player of the Year this spring. He finished his impressive career as the all-time leading goal scorer with 196 goals and also ended up second in all-time points with 247. Jack’s leadership, heart, and hustle will be missed, and we wish him all the best as he begins his career at Providence.”
– Scott Conklin
FINN BOYLE
baseball | Rhode Island College
“Finn was only at EHS for two years and he had a massive impact on the program’s success during his time with the Maroon. Finn was always someone that you could count on coming up with a big hit, making an insane play at shortstop, or becoming an ace on the mound when we needed him. I can’t wait to see him continue his career and reach his goals at Rhode Island College.”
– Ben Webster
TRAMAYNE BULLOCK JR.
football | University of Richmond
“Tramayne’s legacy at Episcopal is unquestioned. The four year letter winner started as a sophomore on a historic, championship defense (9.6 points per game allowed). After earning All-IAC honors that year, Tramayne returned to help lead his 11th grade squad to a second conference title. As a senior, he wore #2, which is a legacy number in the program. As captain, he helped lead a group that is sure to make waves in the future, and many of those students point to Tramayne when asked to describe leadership and/or those who have impacted them. He will do great things at the University of Richmond!”
– Kadeem Rodgers
lacrosse | Colgate University
“Henry was a standout player throughout all four years, earning All-IAC honors in both 2024 and 2025 and All-VISAA in 2024. As a team captain, Henry’s leadership extended from the offseason through the season, and his positive energy and spirit were crucial to the team’s success. He also leaves Episcopal as the all-time leader with over 500 face-off wins. We’re excited to follow his career at Colgate.”
– Scott Conklin
Hope Fireison ’25
Princess Akojenu ’25
HENRY CUNNINGHAM
Penn Morris ’25
Aidan Walsh ’25
Lawson Marshall ’25
DEVON DEBES
lacrosse | Oberlin College
“Devon capped off a fantastic senior season at Episcopal, overcoming injuries that sidelined him for his first two years. He proved to be a pivotal player as the team’s top short-stick defensive midfielder. His athleticism, physical play, and strong team defensive mindset made him a key contributor on the defensive end. Beyond his on-field performance, Devon was also a tremendous leader and teammate. We wish Devon all the best as he heads to Oberlin.”
– Scott Conklin
HOPE FIREISON
squash | Vassar College
“Hope’s journey through high school squash has been defined by passion, commitment, and leadership. As our top player and team captain, she consistently gave her all — proudly representing the maroon colors in every match. Her presence at practice was unwavering, and her on-court leadership led to some of our most memorable wins. She leaves behind a legacy of excellence as she heads to college, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
– Sergio Lopez
MAC HALM
baseball | College of Wooster
“Mac left his mark on the EHS baseball program. He was the backbone to the team and a leader that everyone looked up to. He capped off his senior season setting a school record for most runners caught stealing by a catcher at 25, a record that will be very hard to beat. Mac is truly one of the best catchers in the area and we can’t wait to see the success that he will have at Wooster!”
– Ben Webster
SHAIMA JAMES
basketball | Chowan University
“From the moment she arrived on campus, this stellar competitor has demonstrated a maturity, work ethic, and tenacity necessary for both individual and team success. As a threeyear captain, Shai embraced whatever role the team needed of her, whether that meant dishing out assists, hitting timely threes, dominating in the post, or recording double-doubles. She also served as a positive voice for her teammates, no matter what the scoreboard said. I am certain she will continue to thrive as she takes her versatility to the collegiate level.”
– Katrina Reed
LAWSON MARSHALL
lacrosse | Washington and Lee University
“Lawson was a three-year starter and served as captain of the team in 2025. He was the leader of our defense and his physical play, high lacrosse IQ, and impressive skill level allowed him to consistently match up against the opposing team’s top attackers. Lawson was also our emotional leader, giving his all in every single game. His presence on the field will be greatly missed and we wish him all the best as he continues his career at Washington and Lee.”
– Scott Conklin
Ava Reese ’25
Shaima James ’25
Adam Velásquez Jr. ’25
PENN MORRIS
football | Wofford College
“Championship football is complimentary. Penn’s ability to place punts wherever he desired provided an important weapon for the EHS football program. In two years, Penn averaged over 40 yards per punt, had less than 10 returned by opponents, and never had one blocked. It is not often that a punter gets MVP votes, but that data demonstrates just how much we will miss Penn. I can’t wait to watch him continue to grow and mature as a kicking specialist at Wofford College.”
– Kadeem Rodgers
JUDAH OFORI-ANSAH
football | Fordham University
“One word: dynamic! Judah’s senior year put a punctuation mark on his three-year career at EHS. The 2024 team MVP caught passes, returned kicks, and carried the football in typical Ofori-Ansah fashion. My favorite way to describe Judah’s play style is, “you can’t touch him in a phone booth.” The 2x All-IAC and All-Conference performer’s quiet confidence, dynamic play, and steely competitiveness will be missed.”
– Kadeem Rodgers
OSI ONWUDIWE
soccer | Virginia Tech
“Osi had a historically great season leading the soccer team to a state championship, scoring 20 goals and adding seven assists, including goals in both the VISAA semifinal and final. His grit, will to win, and ability to meet the moment when his team needed him contributed to a winning culture. Osi earned All-America and Washington Post First Team All-Met honors, and was named the Player of the Year by the IAC and VISAA. We look forward to following his successes at Virginia Tech.”
– Rick Wilcox
Reed Phillips ’25
Osi Onwudiwe ’25
Charlie Wilhem ’25
REED PHILLIPS
football | Harvard University
“Reed entered EHS as a fast kid and left as a true wide receiver. Blessed with elite speed, the new school record holder in the 200 meter dash (21.6 seconds) made tough catches, ran polished routes, and played through various injuries in his two seasons at Episcopal. As a senior, Phillips averaged 30 yards per catch. Harvard will be thrilled to add this playmaker to its roster this upcoming fall!”
– Kadeem Rodgers
AVA REESE
track and field | Lafayette College
“Ava Reese ’25 completed her outstanding EHS competitive career with a state title in the shot put event, her fifth state title and a near personal best in the discus to take the runner up spot and her fifth All-State distinction in her career. A testament to Ava’s legacy is that her personal best performances were not only school and state records but came at the biggest competitions of the year and in some cases on the final throws. Ava’s legacy will be one that has an effect on the girls’ track and field program for many years to come.”
– Damian Walsh
AIDAN WALSH
soccer | Denison University
“Aidan is the rare center midfielder, who has the ability to impact a game with a bone-crunching tackle or a silky smooth move followed by a line breaking pass. He did all that and more in the state championship game, including scoring a world-class goal. He was recognized as First Team All-State and All-IAC. We are going to miss his presence in our midfield and can’t wait to root him on for the big red of Denison.”
– Rick Wilcox
CHARLIE WILHELM
baseball | Middlebury College
“From the beginning, Charlie imprinted himself as the number one pitcher in the program. As a two-year captain of the team, he took on many different roles on the mound, in the box, or in the dugout. Charlie truly taught his teammates what it means to compete day in and day out. He became a sparkplug in the box especially in the playoffs when it seemed like he was always the one to get a massive hit when we needed it the most. We wish him the best of luck and can’t wait to see his success at Middlebury!”
– Ben Webster
TATE WARDELL
lacrosse | Chapman University
“Tate was a standout first-line midfielder this spring, contributing 10 goals and 10 assists. He finished his season on a high note, delivering his best performance in the VISAA quarterfinal game against St. Paul VI with two goals and one assist. Tate is a talented dodger with excellent vision, and his hard work and dedication were evident throughout the season. We’re excited to see him accomplish great things for Chapman University in the coming years.”
– Scott Conklin
Henry Cunningham ’25
Sanaa
Devon Debes ’25
Judah Ofori-Ansah ’25
ADAM VELÁSQUEZ JR. football | Elon University
“Adam’s energy and leadership were on full display in 2024. No one brought more positivity, picked up their teammates, or found ways to connect with others than Adam. His matriculation to Elon Football is exciting. Although he will be missed, Adam’s spirit will live on in the 2025 team and beyond!”
– Kadeem Rodgers
Mac Halm ’25
Sanaa Baldwin ’25
Jack Bonello ’25
Tramayne Bullock ’25
Finn Boyle ’25
Tate Wardell ’25
Spring Athletics Awards
BOYS’ VARSITY BASEBALL
MILLER MOST VALUABLE
PLAYER AWARD
MAC HALM ’25
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
HILL HUBBARD ’27
COACHES’ AWARD
THOMAS SIGLER ’26
GIRLS’ VARSITY CREW
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
SADIE ARCHIE ’26
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
BEATRIZ BASTOS ’26
COACHES’ AWARD
ABBY SLAP ’25
BOYS’ GOLF
WILLIAM W. BOOTHE ’43 MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
CHAD SCHMACHTENBERGER ’25
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
WILKES BROWN ’25
GARY LYN HADWIN JR. ’99 COACHES’ AWARD
BOWEN DERINGER ’26
GIRLS’ GOLF
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
EMMA BLUE SINCLAIR ’27
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
EVELYN KIM ’28
COACHES’ AWARD
MARGARET HODGES ’27
BOYS’ VARSITY LACROSSE
JOSEPH B. SHELOR ’52 MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
JACK BONELLO ’25
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
JACK JESTER ’26
COACHES’ AWARD
VAN SEGRAVE ’25
GIRLS’ VARSITY LACROSSE
TYLER MOST VALUABLE PLAYER
AWARD FOR GIRLS’ LACROSSE
ANYA EVERETT ’26
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
KATHARINE MORRISON ’27
COACHES’ AWARD
ANNA GREGG ’25
VARSITY SOFTBALL
NANCY WALKER ’11 MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
NATANIM BEKELE ’25
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
ELOISE EKSTRAND ’28
COACHES’ AWARD
ISABEL HO ’26
BOYS’ VARSITY TENNIS
GEORGE EDMUND BRADFIELD
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
BENNETT KRUSEN ’28
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
DIEGO SIMARRO MATOS ’27
COACHES’ AWARD
DORUK KONAK ’25
GIRLS’ VARSITY TENNIS
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
GREY GIBBINS ’26
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
GIGI MCFARLAND ’27
COACHES’ AWARD
DOROTHY WHATLEY ’28
BOYS’ VARSITY TRACK & FIELD
BEAUDRIC L. HOWELL MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
ZION ALLEN ’27
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
O’NEAL AVERY ’27
COACHES’ AWARD
CHIP WATTS ’27
CATHCART SCHOLARSHIP/ TOMPKINS CUP
HART SANDS ’26
ROBERT TRAIN ’32 - MENARD
DOSWELL ’31 AWARD
AVA REESE ’25
GIRLS’ VARSITY TRACK & FIELD
CAROLINE ELIZABETH ANDERSON ’97
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
SOPHIA APPIAH ’25
MOST IMPROVED AWARD
PAGE DAVIES ’28
COACHES’ AWARD
SHAI JAMES ’25
ULTIMATE FRISBEE
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD
WILLIAM OCASAL ’26
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER AWARD
WILL VERSAGGI ’28
COACHES’ AWARD
JOELY GENDELL ’25
ALL AMERICAN
OSI ONWUDIWE ’25
ALL-STATE HONORS
BASKETBALL
PRINCESS AKOJENU ’25
CROSS COUNTRY
NISHA ROY ’27
FIELD HOCKEY
GRACIE BUXTON ’26
FOOTBALL
TIKI BELL JR. ’26
TRAMAYNE BULLOCK JR. ’25
JUDAH OFORI-ANSAH ’25
GOLF
EMMA BLUE SINCLAIR ’27
INDOOR TRACK & FIELD
ZION ALLEN ’27
SOPHIA APPIAH ’25
SANAA BALDWIN ’25
CLAIRE BRAXTON ’26
TRAMAYNE BULLOCK JR. ’25
RUTHIE GARRISON ’26
KATHARINE MORRISON ’27
JUDAH OFORI-ANSAH ’25
REED PHILLIPS ’25
AVA REESE ’25
LACROSSE
SANAA BALDWIN ’25
JACK BONELLO ’25
ANYA EVERETT ’26
GAVIN LEWIS ’26
LAWSON MARSHALL ’25
League Awards
OUTDOOR TRACK & FIELD
SOPHIA APPIAH ’25
VICKY APPIAH ’27
RUTHIE GARRISON ’26
SHAI JAMES ’25
AVA REESE ’25
CHLOE SMITH ’25
SOCCER
CHARLIE BACDAYAN ’26
OSI ONWUDIWE ’25
Player of the year
ZAC ROBERTS ’27
DIEGO SIMARRO MATOS ’27
AIDAN WALSH ’25
TENNIS
BENNETT KRUSEN ’28
CAMPBELL SHELBY ’25
ALL-IAC
BASEBALL
FINN BOYLE ’25
BASKETBALL
BEN EDMONDS ’27
SIMAS KACERAUSKAS ’27
FOOTBALL
LEVI BABIN ’27
TIKI BELL JR. ’26
WILKES BROWN ’25
TRAMAYNE BULLOCK JR. ’25
PENN MORRIS ’25
JUDAH OFORI-ANSAH ’25
GOLF
CHAD
SCHMACHTENBERGER ’25
LACROSSE
JACK BONELLO ’25
HENRY CUNNINGHAM ’25
GAVIN LEWIS ’26
SOCCER
CHARLIE BACDAYAN ’26
OSI ONWUDIWE ’25
Co-player of the year
ASHER PARSONS ’25
ZAC ROBERTS ’27
DIEGO SIMARRO MATOS ’27
AIDAN WALSH ’25
TENNIS
BENNETT KRUSEN ’28
ALL-MET
FOOTBALL
TRAMAYNE BULLOCK JR. ’25
GOLF
CHAD
SCHMACHTENBERGER ’25
Second Team
EMMA BLUE SINCLAIR ’27
Second Team
LACROSSE
JACK BONELLO ’25 Honorable Mention
HENRY CUNNINGHAM ’25 Honorable Mention
ANYA EVERETT ’25 Honorable Mention
SOCCER
CHARLIE BACDAYAN ’26
OSI ONWUDIWE ’25
DIEGO SIMARRO MATOS ’27
AIDAN WALSH ’25
TENNIS
BENNETT KRUSEN ’28
Honorable Mention
ALL-ISL
BASKETBALL
PRINCESS AKOJENU ’25
FIELD HOCKEY
GRACIE BUXTON ’26
WINNIE HUGHES ’27
LACROSSE
SANAA BALDWIN ’25
ANYA EVERETT ’26
SOCCER
SALLY TAYLOR MCNORRILL ’25
SOFTBALL
NATANIM BEKELE ’25
TENNIS
CAMPBELL SHELBY ’25
TRACK & FIELD
AVA REESE ’25
VOLLEYBALL
CHLOE SMITH ’25
AYOSA STEWART ’27
ALL-WAICL
CLIMBING
AMY BRAINE ’26
EVAN LIPSCHUTZ ’26
LEITHEN MCMILLAN ’26
BRUCE THOMPSON ’25
ZOE WILLIAMS ’25
MAX YANG ’25
Congratulations
to the Class of 2025
GiGi Stone Abed
Princess Akojenu
Sophia Adwoa
Benewaa Appiah
Mazen Ikuma Asad
Sanaa Rochelle Baldwin
Natanim Yeshak Bekele
Caroline Patrice Benavides
Alexandra Lowenthal Billo
John Kenyon Bonello
Sydney Elisse Bouchard
Finian Joseph Boyle
Wilkes Douglas Brown
Caroline Elizabeth Bruns
Tramayne Isaac Bullock Jr.
Chelsea Stacy Campbell
Racquel Stacy Campbell
Amos William Campf
Daisy Bright Campf
Darya Bleue Campi
Ann Patterson Carr
Chloe You Cha
Julia Shannonhouse Clardy
Annabelle Jane Clark
Meade Hamlin Cogswell
MaryMichael Crews Compton
Nickolas Ribeiro Correa
Henry Bryant Cunningham
Nicholas Christopher Daniel
Jack Wilson Daughtrey
Logan Danielle Dearing
Devon Debes
Arkhip Dmitriev
Triet Anh Duong
Bianca Duran
Isabella Duran
Sierra Pearl Durling
Hope Elizabeth Fireison
Logan Robert Fruehwirth
Lingchang Fu
Joely Ilyse Gendell
Martin Alfredo Gil de Montes
Ruby Pierce Gonzalez
Catherine Blake Green
Joseph Henry Green
Aaron Charles Greer
Anna Ruth Hotchkiss Gregg
John Tilford Griggs
Mary Bowditch Halloran
Charlie McMillan Halm
Olivia Cate Hanson
Ryusuke Hattori
Angelina Inirio
William Cooper Jacoby
Shaima Shamiel James Lewis
Katie Minseo Joh
James Jay Johnson
John Worthington Kelly Jr.
Isobel MaClean Kennedy
Sarah Rae Kim
Sean Wonjae Kim
Solmon Kim
Davian King
Doruk Konak
Camilla Kent Krusen
Allison Seogyung Lee
David Haoxiang Liu
Zheyin Liu
Ziyin Liu
Addison Rose Locke
Cindy Huixiu Luo
Sophia Carol Maglio
Annabel Campbell Malin
Lawson Wright Marshall
Rey Dahviyon Marshall
Lola McCall Mason
Charlotte Doyle Matiunas
Julia Jones Matthews
Selah Faith McCray
Luca William McGhee Chavez
Anna Campbell McMillan
Sally Taylor McNorrill
James Guy Merkel
Nellie Anne Miller
Anna Wellons Moog
Penry Speight Morris
Maximillian Niven
Lucy Jane Nolan
Victoria Lee Notzon
Viviane Alexandra Notzon
Judah Kwesi Ofori-Ansah
Erik Ross Olsen
Osinachi Odinakachukwu Onwudiwe
Daisy Atieno Ouma
Emma Chenjing Pan
Asher Jesse Parsons
Reed Phillips
Ava Gan Qin
Avi Qin
Ava Catherine Reese
Louise Blakeslee Richert
Loren Jane Roper
Peter Beckett Augustine Scardino
Chad Benjamin Schmachtenberger
Joseph VanKeuren Segrave
Huston Twedell Sutherland Sgro
Amos Duke Shackelford
Campbell Harting Shelby
Hyoungseob Shin
Abigail Elizabeth Slap
Chloe Tiann Smith
Thomas Parrish Smith
Keith Joohyuk Song
Sicheng Song
Fiona Louise Sullivan
Bruce Wion Thompson
Jian Tian
Samuel Adam Velásquez Jr.
Marion Hampton Walker
Aidan Thomas Walsh
Tate Carlton Wardell
Brunson Mitchell Hill Wickham
Charles Emmet Wilhelm
Zoe Elizabeth Williams
Jarett Jing-tian Xu
Lihao Yang
Sunook Yoon
Adele Carrington Coles Yu
Ryan Zarari
Rouyi Zha
Qiumin Zhang
On Their Way Rejoicing
The 130 members of the Class of 2025 will attend 76 colleges in 26 states and Scotland. Colleges in bold will welcome more than one EHS student.*
American University
Auburn University
Bowdoin College
Bucknell University
Chapman University
Chowan University
Clemson University
Colgate University
Columbia University
Cornell University
Davidson College
Denison University
Duke University
Elmira College
Elon University
Emory University
Fordham University
Franklin & Marshall College
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Harvard University
Harvey Mudd College
Indiana University
James Madison University
Johns Hopkins University
United States Naval Academy
University of California, Berkeley
University of Georgia
University of Maryland, College Park
University of Miami
University of Michigan
University of Mississippi
University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of Pennsylvania
University of Rhode Island
University of Richmond
University of San Francisco
University of South Carolina
Lafayette College
Maine Maritime Academy
Middlebury College
New York University
North Carolina State University
Northeastern University
Northwestern University
Oberlin College
Princeton University
Providence College
Rhode Island College
Rollins College
Sewanee: The University of the South
Southern Methodist University
Spelman College
St. John’s University
Stanford University
Texas Christian University
The College of Wooster
The University of Alabama
The University of Texas at Austin
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
Trinity College
Tufts University
Tulane University of Louisiana
University of Southern California
University of St Andrews
University of Virginia
Vassar College
Villanova University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Wake Forest University
Washington and Lee University
Washington University in St. Louis
Wesleyan University
William and Mary Wofford College
Yale University
* as of June 17, 2025
Thank you to the below companies and friends of Episcopal who graciously hosted the Class of 2025 for their externships.
Ain & Bank, P.C.
Alexandria City Council
American Bank Association
American Beverage Association
Alexandria Chamber of Commerce
Alexandria City Council
Alexandria History Tours
Assay Research
Athenaeum
Automatic Films
Birkett Marine LLC
Black Rock Group
Buchanan & Edwards
Building Momentum
City of Alexandria Transportation and Environmental Services Department
Clark Construction
Crosby Designs
DC Court of Appeals
Deringer Design
Ekstrand & Ekstrand LLP
Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco
Emerging Scholars
Enthuse Creative
Episcopal’s Athletic Trainers
Episcopal’s Communications Office
Episcopal’s Rare Books Collection
Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions
Flag Star Football
Georgetown University Law Center
Howard University
Athletics Training
Independent Study with Dr. Alan Roe
International Federation of Sport Climbing World Cup: Chinese National Climbing Team
Kearney’s Global Business Policy Council
Laurel Lukaszewski Ceramics
LINDER Global Events
Mayor Alyia Gaskins
Meat Institute
MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Meg Carter Designs
Mind the Mat Pilates & Yoga
Mount Vernon Capital Advisors LLC
Murn Properties
Neighborhood Health
Nealon Law Firm
North Carolina Joint
Underwriting Association
OBGYNNOVA
PIES Fitness Yoga Studio
Potomac Riverkeeper Network
QNAP
Radius Networks
Recovery Unplugged
Re/Max Top Realty
Rep. Andrew Garbarino
Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton
Rep. John Larson
RiverFront Wealth Advisors
Sands Capital
Scottie Studios
Senator Shelley Moore Capito
Shakespeare Theatre Company
Sheridan School
Sissy Yates Designs
St. Paul’s Episcopal Preschool
St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes
Lower School
Stream Realty Partners
Superior Court for the District of Columbia
Tewaaraton Foundation
The Asheville School
Athletics Training
The Bowers Group at Compass
The Butterfly House
The Donohoe Companies, Inc.
The Fertilizer Institute
The Herald Group
The Lilley Line
The Morning Group
The Scout Guide
The Shoe Hive
The St. James
Torpedo Factory Art Center
TSC Enterprise LLC
TTR Sotheby’s Realty
Trust for the National Mall
Tuckernuck
US-Asia Institute
Verdence Capital Advisors
VERSUS Equity
VIDA STYLE Shop
VCI Group, Inc.
Washington Glass School
Washington Nationals
Wesley Housing
Whitmer & Worrall LLC
Zoe Feldman Design
“It’s Okay to Be Learning”
Communications extern Logan Dearing ’25 interviewed 11 of her classmates to capture their externship experiences.
Episcopal’s given me the confidence to know what I’m doing.
SOPHIA APPIAH’S first day on the job in Alexandria City Hall did not consist of a slow onboarding experience — in fact, it was the exact opposite. “The mayor [Alyia Gaskins] just walked in the office and said, ‘Come on, we have to go,’” Appiah recalled. “I had no idea what I was walking into, but I just started taking notes.”
Appiah externed for Mayor Gaskins, the first African American woman to hold the position. Working closely with the mayor and her staff, Appiah contributed to key public outreach efforts, from summarizing key events for Gaskins’ newsletter to designing slides for the city’s Youth Forum event.
On that fateful first day, Appiah attended a discussion about an ongoing city plan, where a range of perspectives were shared. She learned that “it takes a lot of different perspectives to move something forward” in local government. Despite having a roomful of people who might not agree, “the fact that they are working toward a common goal provides alternate perspectives and ultimately enhances the final product.”
Despite being thrown into the unexpected, she remained grounded throughout the process. “Episcopal taught me communication skills, being able to write well, organize well… Episcopal’s given me the confidence to know what I’m doing,” she said.
Appiah’s passion for law and public service stemmed from her own work at The High School, where she serves as Head of the Discipline Committee. Mark Carter, the faculty advisor to the Discipline Committee saw this leadership from Sophia firsthand: “Sophia leads by example. She believes in her work and herself. She approaches her role on the Discipline Committee with empathy and strives to help others grow.”
In the future, Appiah sees herself going into law and politics, with a focus on advocacy and social justice. “I really want to make sure that what I’m doing is being implemented into the community, and making a difference,” she said.
Sophia’s community-driven mindset will take her far at the University of Pennsylvania this fall, where she plans to pursue a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics.
SOPHIA APPIAH ’25
As co-founder of the Legal Club and avid fan of Stefanie Smith’s Introduction to Constitutional Law class, SYDNEY BOUCHARD was made for her externship. With support from Smith, Episcopal’s general counsel and a former trial lawyer, Bouchard spent the month of May shadowing the Honorable Errol R. Arthur at the D.C. Superior Court.
During her first week, Bouchard sat in on hearings at the courtroom secretary desk. From misdemeanor updates to plea hearings, she heard many criminal cases, averaging around 30 cases in a single day. Of everything she witnessed, what stood out to her the most was the jury selection process. Bouchard enjoyed seeing how attorneys evaluate potential jurors. “Sometimes I would take notes on one and think they would be a good juror for this case, but then the lawyers
would rule them out,” Bouchard said, learning what made for a strong jury as her externship progressed.
Bourchard was well equipped for her externship thanks to Smith’s Introduction to Constitutional Law class, which gave her a strong foundation to understand courtroom proceedings. “In Mrs. Smith’s class, we got to do a mock trial,” Bouchard said. “So I’ve always loved being in the court environment and doing the direct exams and the cross exams and the opening and closing statements. Her class helped me a lot to understand the legal system, and some of the terminology they use.”
Outside the courtroom, Bouchard built strong relationships with Judge Arthur,
I think this experience has kind of humanized the working world for me.
his law clerk Zach, and his assistant — coincidentally also named Ms. Smith. “Judge Arthur is the nicest man ever,” Bouchard said fondly. “You forget that they’re people too. And I think this experience has kind of humanized the working world for me.”
Bouchard’s biggest lesson, though, was that everyone, including Judge Arthur, started somewhere. “On my first day, I felt like I was too young or too inexperienced,” she remembered. “But now I realize it’s okay to be learning.”
With her courage and intellectual curiosity, Bouchard is well prepared to attend the University of Virginia this fall.
ANNA MCMILLAN and AMOS CAMPF spent their externship navigating the complex machinery of Congress, interning with U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia. For both seniors and West Virginia natives, the experience was more than a résumé builder — it was a transformative lesson in civics, communication, and the importance of compromise.
“This past election was different from other ones,” McMillan explained. “As a senior who just turned 18, my classmates and I had a lot of discussions, and it taught me that even if someone doesn’t share my views, we can still work well together.”
This perspective served her well as she found herself working for a Republican senator whose views often diverged
from her own. Rather than feeling alienated, McMillan found the challenge enlightening. “Being surrounded by people who think differently expanded my understanding of different issues.”
Her co-worker and fellow EHS student Amos Campf ’25 found the experience similarly eye-opening: “Working with Senator Capito was wonderfully informative and intriguing,” he said. “I gained a more detailed understanding of political institutions and interactions between those agencies and the American people.”
Their duties ranged from giving Capitol tours to attending high-stakes hearings.
Being surrounded by people who think differently expanded my understanding of different issues.
“It was incredible to witness firsthand how senators bring their views into questioning people in these powerful roles,” McMillan recalled.
Now back from Capitol Hill, McMillan is registering to vote and looking ahead to Tulane University. She credits her time at Episcopal with preparing her for the rigor and nuance of the externship season. “Episcopal taught me that different ideas aren’t something to fear; they’re what sharpen your thinking and strengthen your voice,” she said. “That mindset made all the difference, and it’s something I’ll carry with me wherever I go.”
AMOS CAMPF ’25 AND ANNA MCMILLAN ’25
ARHIP DMITRIEV ’25, ALLISON LEE ’25,
DAVID SONG ’25, AVA QIN ’25
Seniors ARHIP DMITRIEV, ALLISON LEE , DAVID SONG , and AVA QIN
spent their senior May externing at QNAP, a Taiwan-based tech company specializing in network-attached storage (NAS) appliances. Over the course of their externship, they learned about storage systems, coding, app development, and most importantly, collaboration.
According to QNAP’s website, the NAS has allowed users to host and develop artificial intelligence, edge computing, and data integration on their cloudbased QNAP solutions. Each extern was assigned their own NAS unit, and was given the task of building a new application that could run on the system after learning the basics.
“They already have so many apps built in — like file organizers, remote access, and even a video editor,” said Qin. “It was hard to come up with something they didn’t already offer.”
When learning about the app development process, Qin learned to think on her feet. The coworkers “will use an acronym whenever they can. So a lot of times they’ll say something and I’ll have to Google it.”
When they were not leaning on Google, the students were leaning on each other — one of the most valuable lessons they learned on the job. “Arhip is more on the practical side, so he’s doing more practical projects while I’m doing more of the theoretical algorithm stuff,” said Song, showing how they learned to amplify their individual strengths to yield better results. They also learned the importance of asking for help from peers.
At first, Lee, who has a love-hate relationship with coding, was not interested in taking up her externship in the tech field. However, she was intrigued after learning that an employee at QNAP majored in biochemistry in college and
It’s always the four of us talking about it and asking each other for help.
was now working in tech. Along the way, she learned that “there’s a lot of utilization of technology and computers in lab science fields. So I think that’s why I decided, oh, this could be a good opportunity.”
What Allison loved most about the experience was how much it reminded her of computer science class with Ned Warner, Episcopal’s former systems administrator. “In my computer science class last year, we did a lot of collaborative work,” she said. “I think that I have been mirroring that experience at my externship. It’s always the four of us talking about it and asking each other for help.”
All four are enthusiastic about transitioning to college next year, taking their strengths in teamwork and newfound knowledge about data storage with them.
(left to right) Ava, Allison, Arhip, David
KIM ’25
I doubt most medical students have the opportunity to see all of that.
As her peers dressed in business casual attire for their externships, standout biology student SARAH RAE KIM suited up in scrubs every day to shadow a local OB-GYN at Inova Alexandria Hospital. On her first day working with Dr. Tina Pham, she was told that she would be observing a hysteroscopy that morning. To her surprise, she would also get to see a live birth later that day. “I was shocked,” Kim said laughing. “You can’t really control when someone’s going to go into labor.”
From that moment on, Kim knew that unpredictability was a part of the job, and she knew she would get to see many patients throughout the three weeks. Alternating between Inova Alexandria Hospital and the office, Kim followed Dr. Pham through her busy schedule, seeing around 15 patients each day. She observed C-sections, IUD placements
and removals, and many examinations, gaining rare insight into the medical field so early in her professional journey. “I doubt most medical students have the opportunity to see all of that,” she said.
Before her externship, Kim knew she wanted to study biology. Her passion for the subject was already evident in the classroom. “Rae constantly strove to expand her understanding and appreciation of the information presented to her,” said biology teacher and science department chair Luke Peterson. “She was always willing to ask the question ‘why’ when exploring new topics.”
That curiosity served Kim well during her externship. While she has not decided whether obstetrics is her future
career, she witnessed firsthand the large impact the field has. She also learned about the unpredictable nature of the profession with the on-call nights, unexpected births, and the heavy responsibility. Dr. Pham advised Kim to only pursue obstetrics if she “absolutely loves it” — sound career advice for any industry.
However, as Peterson put it, “Rae truly embodies what it means to be a scientist and I am excited to see what she accomplishes at Princeton!”
SARAH RAE
DAVIAN KING ’25
DAVIAN KING , standout science student and winner of The Class of 2019 Award for Humility and Kindness, was bound to make an impact wherever he externed. He chose Building Momentum, a veteran-owned business that provides engineering consulting, technology development, and training to defense, education, and corporate organizations. He spent most of his time with the educational sector, helping introduce young people to the world of engineering.
King assisted with hands-on sessions for elementary school students, high schoolers, and disconnected youth, guiding them through activities like drone coding and welding. Throughout his externship, King said he gave as much as he gained — especially with the younger kids. “I like working with kids,” King reflected. “They are just positive all the time. I feel like they’re more curious.”
When King was not facilitating educational workshops, he spent time pursuing his own independent projects. Using skills from Dave Collins’ 3D modeling class, he was excited to create on the 3D printer. “I finally got to print the dorm that I modeled for Mr. Collins’ class there,” he said excitedly.
King’s connection to Building Momentum began during a flex block in his engineering class, where he first learned how to weld. He enjoyed the flex block so much that, with the help of the McCain-Ravenel Center for Intellectual and Moral Courage, he returned to extern there.
King’s passion for engineering came from moments in class (like building mouse trap cars) where he learned from trial and error. Rather than getting him down, those mistakes energized him. “It’s fun seeing things fail because then you can make it better.” This kind of
One person isn’t going to get the job done. It takes a whole team.
patience Davian has carried over into his free time, where he has begun to teach himself to code.
Collins, who has taught King in multiple classes, echoed this sentiment: “Davian’s strengths lie in his commitment to reflecting on the strengths and weaknesses of his current design, after which he charts a path toward improving the next iteration.”
During his externship, King also learned many lessons from his supervisor, Julie. His biggest takeaway was the importance of having good relationships with those you work with, especially in STEM. “One person isn’t going to get the job done. It takes a whole team. It takes different parts, and that’s a part of the business. Even though they’re coworkers, they’re still friends,” he learned.
This experience has only invigorated King’s creative spirit and innovative mind and has made him more excited to dive into engineering at Tufts University in the fall.
I learned that being sociable and having people skills is one of the biggest things about being successful.
LAWSON MARSHALL first fell in love with history in Peter Goodnow’s Watch Office elective, which simulates the operation of the foreign policy wing of the United States government. While visiting the Pentagon’s Office of Foreign Affairs during a flex block, he became fascinated with government action and policy making — a passion that led him to his externship at Whitmer & Worrall, a bipartisan government relations and consulting firm in D.C.
During his externship, Marshall watched congressional hearings, wrote detailed reports on those hearings, and got a firsthand look at the complexities of the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, and the White House. Whitmer & Worrall clients range from Fortune 500 companies to universities and local governments, giving Marshall
a wide range of insight into various organizations.
Despite being the only intern at the impressive firm, Marshall did not feel out of place — mostly thanks to soft skills he cultivated at Episcopal. “I learned that being sociable and having people skills is one of the biggest things about being successful,” he said. “EHS did a great job preparing me for that.”
A founding partner of the firm took Marshall out for coffee one day, which he says he will always remember. “He told me that the most important thing is being efficient and trustworthy,” Marshall said, “just being someone people can rely on.”
“Lawson was always very confident and well prepared when he presented class findings to real-world experts in and outside the federal government,” said Goodnow, who was not surprised Marshall went the lobbying route after the Watch Office class. “These interactions can be intimidating, but Lawson always impressed our hosts with his research and analysis. It’s great seeing him now on the other side of the desk!”
Lawson’s strength in his ability to develop connections and attention to detail will make him a force at Washington and Lee University in the fall.
...we stitch together the soul of our community.
And, while not compiled by Logan, we could not highlight externships without shining a spotlight on our own incredible Communications extern:
“With every word penned and every story shared, we stitch together the soul of our community. This is my story of three weeks in the EHS Communications Office,” LOGAN DEARING said as she kicked off her externship defense presentation. For 21 days, she stepped into the Communications Office as a storyteller, a student voice, and a spark of creative energy. She attended meetings with poise, pitched fresh ideas with confidence, and helped bridge the gap between the student experience and the work of the office.
Always dressed with a signature flair, Dearing brought intention to every moment and consistently offered a thoughtful perspective. She captured the rhythm of EHS through photos and videos, helped write stories for senior externships, attended the Advisory Council meetings, and developed social media content that reflected the personality and heart of the School. One of her most memorable contributions was designing a set of iPhone wallpapers for the Class of 2025.
“Logan was truly a breath of fresh air, creative, thoughtful, and always willing to learn something new. From contributing to content development to
inspiring a lighthearted TikTok highlighting her impeccable outfits, Logan left her mark in all the best ways,” Assistant Director of Communications Marissa Murdock said. “We will miss her contagious spirit, infectious laugh, and love for Beyoncé, but know she will be a phenomenal journalist in the future.”
As Dearing turns the page on this chapter and prepares to begin stitching together the soul of her journey at Spelman College, the Communications Office sends her off with immense pride and gratitude.
Looking Back, Moving Forward
Compiled by Communications Extern Marin Condray ’26
As the senior class prepared to graduate, we asked them the most valuable lessons they learned at EHS. Here is a sampling of their replies:
I LEARNED THE IMPORTANCE OF A GOOD WORK ETHIC
— and how far hard work can take you.
one friend group; have many. Don’t have
I learned to about people until I really got to know them. reserve judgements or assumptions IT’S
OKAY
to feel not okay at times.
Just remember that everyone is going through something, and there is always someone you can reach out to for help.
Lead with love & compassion.
Even when things may seem against you, someone is always in your CORNER.
BE KIND TO everyone.
1200 North Quaker Lane | Alexandria, Virginia 22302
Change Service Requested
LAUNCHING THIS SUMMER
Our new website is designed to showcase all that makes Episcopal exceptional: our mission, values, and vibrant community.
The site will provide a window into our world for prospective students and families — incorporating video vignettes beautifully compiled by our own Luke David ’93.
Alumni and current families will find links to pages with specially curated information in the upper right-hand corner of the new site. Should you find issues or have suggestions, please email communications@episcopalhighschool.org.