Saints Celebrations
ST. STEPHEN'S AND ST. AGNES SCHOOL
Graduates of St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School, go forth into the world in peace, bear yourselves with uprightness and integrity, rejoice in God's Creation, love all people, and remember this School family in your prayers. Farewell and may God bless you.
THE CLASS OF 2024
Augusta Lee Adams
Jonah Kofi Adams
Lillian Messick Adams
Bellona Solveig Orinama Akeredolu
Andrew Marshall Alexander
Carlos Lon Alexander, Jr.
Elias Androus
Ella Jane Barker
Davis Bennett Bauer
Jacqueline Renee Beauregard
Jeremiah Caden Biggs
James Blackman
Kyan Christopher Bowman
James Alto Brabham III
Vivian Tess Bradley
Sophie Anne Breckinridge
Andrew Michael Bremner
Garrett Connell Butler
Jack Phu Carlin-Nguyen
Joseph Dat Carlin-Nguyen
William Thomas Carnell
Tae Casagrande
Christopher Michael Chesner
Sara Claire Chiaramonte
Olivia Lauren Clark
Colin Edward Cross
Bradley Aaron Cruthirds
Connor Day
Ava de Graaf-Zembik
Hayden Brendan de Vallance
Alexander Joseph Deas
Andrew Jeffrey Degler
Kalli Irene Dinos
Dominick Beckett DiRienzo
Camila Isabel Domínguez Freire
Olivia Delaney Dougherty
Laura Dale Duffield
Annette Olivia Dunn
Brooke Elizabeth Dunton
Angelina Egbe
Isaiah Giovanni Fahden
Abigail Cornell Felsenthal
Noah James Finley
Eleanor Hunter Foresman
Nicholas Callies Foster
Jacob Danes Foti
Nicholas Oliver Gonzaga Gacad
Giancarlo Gonzalo Gamarra
Bryce Jacob Gunn
Sierra Kitana Gutierrez
Armer James Holdren Harrison
Heather Elizabeth Hawkins
John Preston Heilig
Claire Ryan Helmreich
Mira Ruth Henry
Danielle Theresa Hines
Colton Dane Jensen
Christian Jeffrey Kappel
Marcus Alexander King
Amanda Renee Klock
Francis Joseph Knott III
Aidan Meyers Koch
Sarah Elizabeth Kotulan
Brooke Wing-Kay Lai
Raei Hailu Legesse
Matthew Carmen Leonardo
Gabriel Debu Leonesio
Maxime Lyubinsky
Megan Grace Mailloux
Mason Evans Mantey
Thomas Aidan Matney
Charlotte Katherine McNamara
Elona Michael
Oliver Parks Muth Miller
Gabriella Esperanza Miller Milow
Louis Richard Liffrig Molife
August Yeong Soon Moon
Aislinn Sumner Moore
Elizabeth Jane Moorman
John Bernard Murphy III
Abigail Ruth Musser
Sullivan Naef
Blake W. Neal
Charlotte Elizabeth Nichols
Jonathan Nazir O'Bryant-Graves
Dante Raul Ornelas
Luke Allan Pascal
Matthew Paul Patrone
Channing Grace-Welborn Pinkos
Luke Anderson Rapallo
James Padraic Rath
Reagan Katherine Reilly
David Cronin Rhind-Tutt
Kyla Nicole Rouse
Elizabeth Stuart Rutter
Madison Nichole Sandy
Alexander Hugh Sargent
Lauren Nicole Scott
Grace Elizabeth Sherner
Christopher Jonathan Shorter, Jr.
Matthew Thomas Smith
Kathryn McMillen Snyder
Layla Valencia Stewart
James Peter Su
Mason James Tull
Mark Anthony Turner, Jr.
Jack William Van Giezen
Sydney Lauren Veatch
Drew Rene Wallach
Alexander Trevor Washington
Theodore Joseph Weiman
Alexander Williams IV
Brennan Ackerson Wise
Madeline Malcolm Wolcott
Sydney Andrea Worsham
Kellyn Richard Wyatt
Safira Adyson Ross Yisrael
Jeremy Thomas Young
Website: sssas.org
Head of School
Kirsten Prettyman Adams
Director of Communications
Jen Desautels
Editor & Designer
Director of Design & Production
Melissa Ulsaker Maas '76
Director of Digital Media and Marketing
Mandi Sapp
Director of Brand Management and Marketing
Marcia Mallett
Photographers
Jameson Bloom '13
Laura Hatcher Photography
Melissa Ulsaker Maas '76
Marcia Mallett
Cory Royster
Questions/Comments
Melissa Ulsaker Maas '76
mmaas@sssas.org
To Update Your Contact Information or Mailing Preferences
Please email atoman@sssas.org or call 703-212-2720.
Published by SSSAS for current parents, faculty, and staff. © 2024
St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School admits students of any race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. As a related organization of the Episcopal Church, St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School respects the applicable policies and governing principles of the Episcopal Church pertaining to nondiscrimination.
Dear Saints,
It has only been a few weeks since our students cleared out their lockers and cubbies, searched the lost and found bins one more time, and bid this school farewell for the summer. Each year I am amazed by the speed at which a school year seems to hurdle by. When glancing back there are days that seem a blur, movie scenes being fast forwarded.
Then the summer arrives and we slowly press the brake, the view out the window slowing and coming into focus. There is nothing I love more than the energy of a school on the busiest of days, but a very close second is the natural pause that the days of summer create. I know we are still busy, filling the days with projects, books, camp, and summer jobs, but these few weeks seem to magically open up space in our days allowing for movie nights, brilliantly lazy afternoons bike riding and evenings cooking out with neighbors in the summer twilight.
Last summer I traveled to Costa Rica and participated in a Spanish immersion program. This rewarding and incredible experience is one I will never forget, and it was the natural pause of school life that allowed me the chance to embark on such an adventure. It is never easy to set aside to-do lists, spreadsheets, and email, but doing so brings into focus new opportunities and new challenges.
This summer I hope each of you have the opportunity to try something new, to stretch yourself, to grow. Stepping outside of your comfort zone, pushing yourself in new ways, is good for the soul; it allows you to reset and reimagine.
I look forward to hearing about your summer adventures in just a few weeks! Until then, Happy Summer and Go Saints!
Warmly,
Kirsten Adams Head of School
The accompanying artwork was created by some of our Early Saints (age 3) and exhibited at their amazing art show on May 13, 2024. These pieces were inspired by artist Georgia O'Keefe. Co-teachers Taylor Heasley '12 and Kat Moore expertly guided their young students through a long-term Reggio Emilia based explorational study called Early Artists and Early Architects. The goal of the unit, which focuses on the arts and sciences, is to ignite their students imagination, spark a sense of wonder, and create a foundation of learning that will continue throughout their time at St. Stephen's and St. Agnes.
DR. BOBBY CHHABRA '87
Meet the Commencement Speaker
Dr. Bobby Chhabra is an esteemed Orthopaedic surgeon and nationally recognized educator at the University of Virginia. Since his time at St. Stephen's School, he has made significant contributions to his field. His expertise is in treating conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and elbow, including trauma and arthritis. He has a particular interest in sports injuries.
Bobby credits his time at SSSAS as “incredibly influential” in helping him “learn not only how to study, but also how to investigate.” He is grateful to the influence of his St. Stephen's teachers, particularly his biology teacher, Mr. Fred Atwood. Bobby went on a spring break trip to the Rio Grande with Mr. Atwood during the 1986-1987 school year and cites it as one of his most memorable experiences from his days at St. Stephen's. Kayaking through the Rio Grande, studying biology, ecology, and botany was what inspired him to pursue biology and medicine in college. He also attributes learning to “multi-task” as contributing to his success as a leader in Orthopaedic Surgery, not to mention “great teaching and mentoring,” and notes that he felt well prepared for his transition to the pre-med program at Johns Hopkins University.
Bobby speaks fondly of Coach Doug Adams and his memories of summer football training at Shrinemont. He describes the seven tough days there, every summer for four years—living in the dorms, practicing twice a day in the heat of August, eating every meal together,
lifting together, just being there and sweating it—recalling the deep camaraderie he developed with his teammates. As a student-athlete, Bobby experienced a myriad of life lessons. Playing football taught him to be resilient and focus on time management, skills he claims were instrumental in getting through The University of Virginia School of Medicine and later in establishing his career.
While Bobby contemplated different careers in medicine, Orthopaedic Surgery turned out to be a natural fit. Bobby is driven to help people and improve their quality of life, serving a wide variety of patients from babies with congenital hand differences to elderly tennis stars. In 2014 he was featured on the Today Show after creating thumbs for a child born without any (a rare condition called thumb aplasia that affects about one out of every 100,000 infants). He says it is “both gratifying and humbling to be able to take care of so many people with difficult problems and high expectations for performance.”
Bobby returned to UVA in 2002, where he is currently the Lillian T. Pratt Distinguished Professor and chair of Orthopaedic Surgery and the David A. Harrison Distinguished Educator at the University of Virginia. He has served as chair of the UVA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery since 2013. He is the director of the UVA Health Orthopaedic Center and is a team physician for the UVA Department of Athletics. He also
serves as the vice president of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Bobby was the driving force in the development and construction of UVA's Hand Center, and the brand new 200,000 square foot comprehensive UVA Health Orthopaedic Center which opened in early 2022.
After growing the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery to more than 30 Orthopaedic surgeons in eight different specialties, building a comprehensive Orthopaedic Center for the region from the ground up was no small feat. In hindsight, Bobby points to fundamental lessons he learned from his parents and at school as instrumental in paving the way and developing a lifelong work ethic: “I learned a lot of things at a very young age: how to listen before making decisions; how to be collaborative in finding solutions to move things forward; and how—while you might not get exactly what you want—you'll make things better if you are willing to be persistent, resilient, and focused.”
In addition to Dr. Chhabra's numerous publications, and awards, for the last seven years he has also had a weekly show on local ESPN radio, “Best Seat in the House Injury Report” and “Real Athletic Conversations,” where he discusses everything from college sports injuries to the latest in the NFL, NBA, and other professional sports.
The St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School community was very excited to welcome Bobby back to campus as the 2024 Commencement Speaker.
FIND YOUR REASON TO LIVE
The Commencement Address given by Dr. Bobby Chhabra '87 on June 1.
“Fall seven times, rise eight.
~Japanese Proverb
On March 16, 2018, I arrived at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C., picked up my credentials and made my way to the locker room. I was feeling good about our upcoming game. As I entered the locker room, you could feel the tension in the air, but also the excitement. I checked in with our players
who were playing with injuries to make sure they were ready to play. I finished my pregame checks as one of the University of Virginia team physicians, a role I had served in for more than 18 years, and settled in my seat behind the bench ready to watch UVA's first game in the NCAA college basketball tournament, commonly called March Madness. The UVA Cavaliers were the #1 overall seed in the tournament and a heavy favorite to make the Final 4, despite not having their
elite starter De'Andre Hunter who was injured the week before. I had operated on his wrist two days prior and he was going to miss the game and the rest of the season. UVA was playing the #16 seed in our region, the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) Retrievers, in what was expected to be an easy game for the Cavaliers. UVA was favored to win by 21 points. In the 79 years March Madness had existed, no #16 seed had ever beaten a #1 seed. Even if you are not a sports
fan, you probably are well aware of the outcome. UMBC blew out UVA 74-54 in the biggest upset in the history of NCAA College Basketball.
UMBC dismantled a very talented UVA team coached by future Hall of Fame Coach, Tony Bennett. I will never forget the complete shock in the locker room after the game. Coaches and players alike were in disbelief, tears flowed freely and frustration and anger replaced the excitement that was in the locker room before the game. I experienced the extremes of emotion firsthand and left the locker room to join some friends in silence at a hotel bar to process what had just happened.
These student athletes and coaches were knocked down, punched in the face, and stomped on. Many struggled with their mental health over the next several months. Our star guard, Kyle Guy, publicly discussed his struggles with anxiety and depression after the loss. The players and team were destroyed on social media and across the country by sports fans. When they got home to Charlottesville, they were yelled at and ridiculed on campus for disappointing a passionate fan base that expected so much more from this team. I remember sitting and talking with my close friend, Coach Bennett, to make sense of it all for months. Most of us thought that UVA basketball and these young players would not recover from this defeat. At least not for a very long time. Sports fans know, we could not have been more wrong.
The next year, in the most improbable turn around in sports history, the UVA Cavaliers basketball team won their first-
“What I learned from my time at this school shaped my ability to deal with adversity and remain focused on achieving my goals. ”
ever national championship in Minneapolis, Minn., defeating Auburn and Texas Tech in the Final 4. Most of the roster was the same from the 2018 disappointment and Kyle Guy was the NCAA tournament MVP. I was with the team in Minneapolis and experienced the exhilaration on the court as the team and coaches cut down the net. I witnessed the tears of joy and redemption in the locker room.
How do you go from the lowest point to the highest point of accomplishment in 12 months? The one word that best describes this UVA team, their players, and coaches is RESILIENT. They were knocked down hard, but they found the strength to rise up again and to keep moving forward. Nelson Mandela famously said, “I never lose. Either I win or I learn.” These incredible student athletes and coaches did not lose to UMBC. They learned how to deal with adversity and rose up to meet the next challenge—and achieved something incredible. Coach Tony Bennett said in an interview after winning the national championship, “If you use
adversity right, it will buy you a ticket to a place you couldn't have gone any other way.”
I graduated from SSSAS school in 1987. None of the members of this graduating class were born yet. What I learned from my time at this school shaped my ability to deal with adversity and remain focused on achieving my goals. From my time on the football team being an average defensive lineman and a below average catcher on the baseball team, as well as my frustration in Latin class, I learned that attention to the small things was important and just as critical for success as attention to the big things.
I experienced numerous obstacles in my career as I tried to build an Orthopaedic Center at UVA. I wanted to improve the care provided to patients with Orthopaedic problems across the state of Virginia. I had a vision of consolidating all of Orthopaedic services into one building. I started this effort in 2012 when I was appointed chair of Orthopaedics at UVA. I spent more than 10 years navigating political obstacles and academic bureaucracy. I was told I would not have support for an Orthopaedic Center by six different deans, three University presidents and countless other leaders in the UVA Health System. I did not give up. I kept my focus and was driven by my passion for improving the care for our patients and the work environment for my team members. I kept negotiating with the University's leadership, kept growing my department, kept showing data that this was the right thing to do. I designed the building in 2014 with an architect friend who inspired me to keep going. Coach Bennett
reminded me often to not give up if this was my dream and passion. I finally obtained approval for the UVA Orthopaedic Center in 2017, a 200,000 square foot comprehensive Orthopaedic Hospital, one of the biggest and best equipped centers in the country. After I navigated the finances and finalized the architectural plan, we broke ground in 2018 and opened in 2022. In the last two years, the Orthopaedic Center has exceeded my, my team members, our patients, and University leadership's expectations. In my opinion it is the best place to receive care and work in the country. I would not have achieved any of this if I did not understand the importance of being resilient. To never accept NO for an answer and to not give up on your dream.
The famous martial artist and actor Bruce Lee would often say, “Be like water.” What did
he mean by this? I never really understood this until recently. He was referring to the flow of life. You cannot micromanage and control everything in your life. Meaningful challenge is the key to flow. If things are not hard, they are not worth doing. Mike Leach, a very successful college football coach, was known to have some of the best locker room speeches to fire up his team. He would often tell his players, “Nothing is really fun unless it is hard.” Challenge yourself to achieve more. Do not take the easy path or you will not achieve flow in life. As water flows, it does not stop, it finds another path. Water is resilient as it flows.
To the Class of 2024, you have experienced incredible adversity these last few years personally and socially. You have managed the challenges of the Covid pandemic, remote learning, hybrid learning, missed social events and athletic competitions,
“Challenge yourself to achieve more. Do not take the easy path or you will not achieve flow in life. As water flows, it does not stop, it finds another path. Water is resilient as it flows.”
experienced a politically divided world and world-wide conflicts, disputes over climate change, and the loss of privacy with your life dissected on social media. You have become resilient. You have managed incredible pressure in a very confusing world. You may not realize it yet, but you are antifragile and will be able to overcome the challenges you will face in the future with grace and poise.
Congratulations Class of 2024, on achieving this milestone of graduating from high school. Be grateful to your family and friends who have been by your side and have helped you navigate these last few tumultuous years. They will always be there for you when you need them most. You are resilient and you have accomplished great things already. I am excited to see what you will accomplish in the future to make the world a better place. While you may not always get exactly what you want in life,
you will make things better if you are resilient, persistent, and focused. Resilience gives you the ability to navigate and negotiate obstacles to keep your dreams and vision moving forward, so they become a reality. When you are feeling down and frustrated do not give up. Do not fear adversity. Every setback is an opportunity for growth. Often how you handle the journey is more important than the result. You will learn from failure and disappointment and you will stay humble. The Japanese word “ganbaru” when translated means to persevere or to stay firm by doing one's best.
Another Japanese word “ikigai” means “a reason to live.” It's a concept that encourages people to discover what really matters to them and to live a life filled with purpose and joy. Stay true to your goals and find joy in pursuing your dreams.
John Lennon once said, “Everything will be all right in the end; so, if it is not all right, it is not yet the end.” Do not accept the end result unless everything is all right. Be resilient. Keep pushing forward. Find your ikigai. Challenge yourself so you keep flowing through life. And if you are knocked down in pursuit of your dreams, keep rising up.
already. And I am excited to see what you will accomplish in the future to make the world a better place. While you may not always get exactly what you want in life, you will make things better if you are resilient, persistent, and focused. Resilience gives you the ability to navigate and negotiate obstacles to keep your dreams and vision moving forward, so they become a reality. When you are feeling down and frustrated do not give up. Do not fear adversity. Every setback is an opportunity for
growth. Often how you handle the journey is more important than the result. You will learn from failure and disappointment and you will stay humble. The Japanese word “ganbaru” means to persevere or to stay firm by doing one's best.
Another Japanese word, “ikigai,”means “a reason to live.” It's a concept that encourages people to discover what really matters to them and to live a life filled with purpose and joy. Stay true to your goals and find joy in pursuing your dreams.
John Lennon once said, “Everything will be okay in the end; so if it is not okay, it is not yet the end.” Do not accept the end result unless everything is okay. Be resilient. Keep pushing forward. Find your ikigai. Challenge yourself so you keep flowing through life. And if you are knocked down in pursuit of your dreams, keep rising up.
The Chhabra family: Bobby's son Vijay, father Om, mother Suman, Bobby, wife Sandhya, and daughter Vaya.
FORGED INTO A FAMILY
The Valedictorian Address given by Brennan Wise '24 on June 1.
Good morning, Saints. It's great to see everyone here today. To be honest, I'd forgotten how big our class is. We've all been having so many “mysterious illnesses” and “emergency dentist appointments,” which explains our subpar attendance these last couple of months. In just a few minutes, we'll be walking across the stage to receive our diplomas, marking the official end of our time together. It's fitting that our goodbye takes place here on this field, where nearly four years ago, shrouded by masks, we walked around the track and met
our teachers and our classmates for the first time. For many of you, this school has been your home for most of if not your entire lives, and while I only entered as a freshman, I can hardly remember what it was like before being welcomed into the Saints community.
We've come a long way since September 8, 2020, our very first day of high school. That was 1,362 days ago, or roughly 120 million seconds and counting. Over the course of these millions of moments, we've grown slowly, often imperceptibly, as scholars,
athletes, musicians, actors, and most importantly, ping-pong players. Of course, we never would have made it this far without those who have guided and supported us throughout the process. I'm sure I speak on behalf of the entire class when I extend my deepest gratitude to the faculty and staff who have made our time at St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School so impactful. To the teachers, your passion for education and dedication to your students means more to us than you know, and your support for our academic, athletic, and artistic
endeavors allowed us to thrive as students, and more importantly, as individuals. To the administrators and Board of Governors, thank you for keeping the whole operation afloat, and for constructing a new building to try to fill the massive hole our departure will leave. Finally, to our parents, who have chauffeured us to and from school, helped us draft emails, made us peanut butter and jelly sandwiches even though we, too, can wield a butter knife proficiently, and been there for us every step of the way, thank you.
Of course, there's one group missing from this list of supporters: each other. The community we've fostered as a grade is truly something special, something that eludes description. It exists in moments, not words. The collective struggles we overcame —the
“The community we've fostered as a grade is truly something special, something that eludes description. It exists in moments, not words. The collective struggles we overcame—the triumphs and the defeats—forged us into a family. ”
triumphs and the defeats —forged us into a family. A messy, 118-person family, but a family nonetheless. I'm certain everyone here can think back to a specific instance in which a classmate helped them grow and succeed. Maybe it was a teammate encouraging you to run the extra lap even though your legs were giving out, or a friend offering to quiz you on your weirdly specific world language vocab—I once had a whole unit on water sports, so now I know how to say wake-boarding in French if it ever comes up in conversation. Maybe this help even came in the form of someone teaching you to never let your guard down during Senior Assassin—I'm looking at you Nick Foster, who stealthily sprinted away from baseball practice and snuck up behind me as I peacefully walked to my car. I still haven't forgiven you.
These instances of togetherness are emblematic of who we are: kind, caring individuals who are empowered by each others' successes and supportive of each others' goals.
Perhaps our strong bond as a class is a product of our rocky beginnings. We are the first and only (knock on wood) Saints class to begin high school online. In addition to having to deal with break-out room discussions, which I still have nightmares about, we also had to be on the lookout for Mr. Mallett prowling with his six-foot social distancing stick, a stick which, I'll have you know, is still in his office. I hope you're not anticipating any global pandemics in the near future, Mr. Mallett.
“Perhaps our strong bond as a class is a product of our rocky beginnings. We are the first and only (knock on wood) Saints class to begin high school online.”
This year, we finally ascended to our rightful role as leaders of the student body. We ruled well, teaching the newcomers traditions like throwing toilet paper at Sleepy Thompson and throwing water balloons at Fun
Friday (a lot of our traditions involve throwing things). On a few occasions, we did have to put our foot down as a class, like when we were obligated to “politely” tell the oblivious freshmen not to cheer when we lost yards at Friday Night Lights. At other times, we kept our cool, giving the underclassmen some leniency. For example, despite the COVID-19 pandemic ending over a year ago, the sophomores still insist on socially distancing their cars, leaving 6 feet from bumper to bumper and ensuring that tardy seniors have to park in the neighborhood cul-de-sac. Luckily for them, we let it slide. In addition to leadership, our class has consistently demonstrated ingenuity,
creativity, and persistence, accomplishing incredible feats in the process. The fantastic band KASA, starring seniors Alex and August, is releasing a new album soon, which is sure to be their best yet. Our senior athletes fought hard on the local and national stages, winning big in some instances and rallying together after disappointing defeats in others, always giving their all regardless of the results. We put on a fantastic production of “The Sound of Music,” aided by live backtracks courtesy of the seasoned Pit Orchestra. Seniors on the Starstuff robotics team worked tirelessly troubleshooting and tinkering, ultimately making it to the world competition in Houston. Members of our class also gave moving and thought-provoking Chapel talks that spanned from introspective explorations to vulnerable, powerful stories of perseverance. We built a nearly-functional go-kart, only missing unimportant features like brakes. And of course, we successfully conspired to have the Iron Triangle removed from the AP exam so that Mr. Garikes would have to throw us a free lunch.
But more than anything else, we've had fun these past four years. We collectively discovered that spikeball is not a game for the faint of heart. It forges champions and crushes those who are not worthy, a lesson I learned when Armer defeated me seven to zero in what felt like thirty seconds. During our retreat to Shrine Mont, we grew closer as a class by collectively getting
humiliated by Ms. McGuire's hiking prowess. Although she'd never admit it, I think her descent down the mountain to check on the stragglers was a power play. We were also fortunate enough to hear our resident DJ JP throw what I can only assume was the loudest party Appalachia has ever heard —my hearing has never been the same. The laughter we've shared these past four years has been invaluable, and I am so grateful that I got to be a part of this class, the Class of 2024. As we all go our separate ways and take on new challenges, these are the moments that will stick with us.
The future is uncertain. Discomfort always accompanies transition—that's something we all know. But if this community and
everything it's done is what we accomplished in the face of all the chaos we endured—this, despite the masks, the online classes, and the sophomores' truly awful parking—then what can't we do in college and beyond? As we reach the end of our 120 million seconds together, I hope that the memories we've shared provide reassurance and hope as we explore new frontiers. So to the future drummers and dentists, scriptwriters and soccer players, business titans and Broadway stars, I can't wait to see how far you go. No matter where we end up, this place will always bind us. Thank you, and congratulations to the Class of 2024.
COMMENCEMENT
Our seniors graduated June 1, 2024, on Moss Field.
COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES THE CLASS OF 2024 ARE ATTENDING
Auburn University F Boston College (2) F Boston University (2) F Brown University F Case Western Reserve University
Charleston Southern University F Christopher Newport University (2) F Clemson University (2) F College of Charleston F
College of William & Mary (8) F Cornell University F Davidson College F Drexel University F Elon University F
George Mason University (2) F George Washington University F Gettysburg College F High Point University FHoward University (3)
Indiana University F Johns Hopkins University F Lehigh University F Long Island University F Loyola Marymount University
Mercer University F Miami University (OH) F Michigan State University (2) F Morehouse College F New York University (2) F
Northeastern University (3) F Northwestern University F Providence College F Purdue University F Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rochester Institute of Technology FSavannah College of Art & Design F Sewanee: University of the South F Shaw University
Southern Methodist University F Syracuse University (4) FTexas A&M University F Texas Christian University F Trinity College (CT)
Tulane University (2) F Union College (2) F United States Naval Academy F University of California—Santa Barbara
University of Chicago F University of Dayton F University of Florida F University of Illinois—Urbana-Champaign
University of Lynchburg F University of Maryland—Baltimore County F University of Maryland—College Park
University of Miami (FL) F University of Notre Dame F University of Pennsylvania (2) F University of Richmond (2)
University of South Carolina (4) F University of Tennessee (2) FUniversity of Texas—Austin F University of Vermont
University of Virginia (8) F University of Wisconsin—Madison (2) F Villanova University F Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Tech (2) F Wake Forest University (6) F Washington University in St. Louis F Wesleyan University F Yale University
CLASS PHOTO BY JOHNNY SHRYOCK
CLASS OF 2024 COLLEGE STATS
118 NEW SAINTS ALUMNI
190+
COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES ACCEPTED OUR SENIORS
ARE STICKING TOGETHER with 61 seniors attending college with at least one other Saint.
4
SENIORS ARE PURSUING PROFESSIONAL PATHS in ballet, soccer, and ice hockey
38
SENIORS ARE GOING NORTHEAST
4
SENIORS ARE GOING SOUTHWEST
13
SENIORS ARE GOING MIDWEST
57
SENIORS ARE GOING SOUTHEAST
2
SENIORS ARE GOING WEST
2 PURSUING MILITARY SERVICE
THE MARK OF GENUINENESS
The Farewell Address at Prize Day given by Thomas Matney '24 on May 31.
Good afternoon Class of 2024 and SSSAS community. My name is Thomas Matney and it is my honor to welcome you to Prize Day. Thank you all for being here, and a special thank you to the seniors who selected me to give this speech. I must admit, I was slightly surprised when Ms. McGuire told me that I had been elected to speak here today because normally people are trying to get me to stop talking. After giving a chapel talk earlier this year, I was sure that I had
reached my public speaking word limit, but here I stand talking at the request of the people. But seriously, thank you guys for choosing me to speak today.
To start today, I would like to continue with the theme of gratitude. First and foremost, to the parents. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to go to a school like this, with the many helpful tools to prepare us for the next steps of life. You've supported us through one of the toughest stages
of our lives, and we will forever be the better for it. We also recognize that in supporting us, you have had to make many sacrifices, and that will never be lost on us. Let's give a hand to our parents.
Now to the faculty, whether you are an English teacher who goes way too deep on an insignificant detail (all are guilty), a math teacher who gave up on environmental science because he doesn't care about saving the world (Mr. Taylor), or a department chair who had to
raise the requisites to get into AP US History after being tortured through 2022-2023 A period APUSH (Ms. Hardwick), you have played an invaluable role in our lives. I want to take this moment to highlight the teachers that have served their final year at SSSAS along with us. First, Father Cavanaugh. The wisest and most calming presence to ever grace the SSSAS campuses. Then there's Ms. Sellon, who for many years was a hidden gem at this school having been hidden in the academic center, suspiciously chose to retire a few weeks after I exposed her as a hidden gem in my chapel talk. For those in charge of hiring Ms. Sellon's replacement, they must also have a British accent. Coach Joseph fell for Bishop Ireton's
pyramid scheme that promises fun academic and athletic success. No hard feelings, I'm very grateful for your time here and I'm glad you waited for us to graduate. And finally, Dr. Sidle. Unfortunately, I never had Dr. Sidle, but I can assure you that any senior who took his class this year is very glad they did.
It takes a lot to get a group of kids who once unleashed fart spray into the ventilation system of the Middle School to become the greatest class that has ever walked through these halls. Yet due to you all, both parents and faculty, we have done exactly that.
Now to the Class of 2024. Think back to freshmen year with me. Freshmen year gave us the unique distinction of beginning high school without
being able to go to class due to COVID-19. It may have been tough at times, especially to make new friends, yet we came out of it alright. Freshmen year also brought things like Mr. Martin's improv class. Although I might not have become the most well-rounded actor in that class, I can tell you that I am a very good actor in a police shootout scenario…and before you ask, I can play both sides.
As we came into our sophomore year, things were starting to look slightly better on the Covid front. Yet you were always in danger of getting stabbed with a mechanical pencil as the stabber yelled “vaccine” or getting your paper mask ripped off your face as your friend would yell “Youngkin,” which also kept everyone up to date on the pressing news of the time.
Junior year was just rough at most times. However, Ms. Losell's biology class brought back a disciplinary strike count that I hadn't seen since my early scholarly days. I seemed to get to two strikes in most classes and even got three strikes once but it only really brought Ms. Losell yelling at me in Swedish.
Then we got to our senior year. I think by the time we went to Shrinemont this year, it was clear to both us and the faculty that this was an incredibly close grade. Sometimes it was through more intimate moments—like Mark Turner catching Colton Jensen's head as he fell off of a rock—and
sometimes it was just from being present with each other. In your senior year, you learn a lot about yourself. For myself, I learned that you don't duck when your friend throws a water balloon at you, instead, you anticipate the fact that Ms. McGuire is behind you and that your “friend” will run away and you will take the blame for the scene that has just unfolded if the balloon hits her, so you might as well just bite the bullet. Ms. McGuire, if you were still looking for a culprit, I thought you should know that it was Garrett Butler before you give him his diploma tomorrow.
This year we were also a part of some historical events for the
SSSAS community. For one, many of us had AP science classes in a spare trailer Mr. Mallett got from the local RV park. And most importantly, we watched our school become a battle zone between Ms. McGuire and leftover garbage from lunches. Many of us were caught in the crossfire (I was hit twice), but luckily there seems to have been a recent peace agreement between the two sides. On the contrary, our athletics this year will probably not go down in the history books, but who would've thought soccer would be one of our best sports? Had to mention it.
But when I look back at our time here, I think way past our
Thomas Matney also received a Saints Medal at Prize Day.
measurable achievements, I think about the way that we've impacted this community, and I must say, I think of it very positively. We've gone through high school in some of the most challenging and trying times that America has ever faced socially. In our four years here, the conversations on things like racism, mental health, environmentalism, and LGBTQ+ rights have grown to heights that weren't even imaginable 10 years ago. We've instilled in this community a standard of acceptance that will keep growing long after we leave this place, and that is special. Yet to instill things into a community you need leaders, and that's where I believe the strength of the Class of 2024 lies. It takes a certain level of leadership to hold your friends accountable, especially in a high school setting, but at some point or another, each and every one of us has done that and that is what allows for this genuine community. It's a theme I've seen this whole year. First, I want to point out the obvious leaders: Theo Weiman and Madison Sandy. Let's give a hand for the job they've done this year. This year Theo led a meditation during one of our morning meetings which I thought perfectly embodied the leadership of our class. As Theo began the few minutes of meditation, I looked around hoping that they wouldn't, but thinking that people would just scoff at the fact that Theo was trying this and not do it because it looked funny. Yet what I found is that every senior closed their eyes and began meditating alongside Theo with no hesitation. The genuine nature of our class led other grades to follow even though they also looked around first to see if people were doing it. We also
“To instill things into a community you need leaders, and that's where I believe the strength of the Class of 2024 lies. It takes a certain level of leadership to hold your friends accountable, but at some point or another, each and every one of us has done that and that is what allows for this genuine community.”
had great leadership from Augusta Adams our senior class co-president who is likely about $1,000 in debt from all the things she has bought for us this year. But more importantly, the Class of 2024 led no matter their title. We had intellectual leaders like Brennan Wise who showed great dedication to not only his own education but others as well by encouraging others to be brave and challenge themselves in class. We had Oliver Miller, Jeremy Young, and Elias Androus, who led our grade in bringing outstanding energy to athletic and gradewide events. We had club leaders like Amanda Klock who led Book Buddies, one of the most active clubs at this school that helped elementary students
become more inspired to read. We had Sarah Kotulan and Saraclaire Chiaramonte, who led our community in conservationism and helped establish the environmental literacy that each of us will leave this school with. We had our future movie star, Charlotte Nichols, who led an outstanding theater program. And of course, we had our DJ, J.P. Su, who not only brought us some sick beats but also brought an invaluable genuine kindness that helped keep the positive senior year vibes all year. And to all of those who are not named, know that you have played an integral leadership role at this school as well.
There are so many things I'm going to miss about this school. I am going to miss realizing that I forgot to take my ADHD meds when punching one of my close friends in the arm at 9:30 in the morning. I'm going to miss seeing the new and old friends I've made here every day. I'm going to miss the teachers who have helped make me into the person I am today. I'm going to miss being yelled at for a friend leaving their Tupperware full of pasta on the table. But most of all I will miss this St. Stephen's and St. Agnes community. But my fellow classmates, always remember that just because we are not together physically, that does not mean that we should not carry with us what we have learned here. You're going to meet people from all different demographics, but be the leader who stands up for what is right, and be genuine, because your genuineness is what has left such a special mark on this place. I love you guys and thank you for allowing me to speak here today.
UPPER SCHOOL PRIZE DAY
On June 2, two faculty members and 65 students were recognized for their achievements in academics, the arts, athletics, citizenship, and service.
FACULTY EXCELLENCE AWARD
Anne Kelly
Lower School Second Grade
Teacher
YEARBOOK DEDICATION
Eric Taylor
Upper School Math Teacher
Senior Editors: Megan Mailloux and Maxime Lyubinsky
The following awards and recognitions were presented to seniors:
LESLIE JONES LATIN PRIZE
David Rhind-Tutt
MICHALOT CUP
Garrett Butler
MEDAL OF EXCELLENCE IN SPANISH
Mason Mantey
WORLD LANGUAGE CERTIFICATES
Augusta Adams, French and Spanish
Jonah Adams, Spanish and French
Sophie Breckinridge, Spanish and French
Garrett Butler, French and Spanish
Bradley Cruthirds, Spanish and French
Kalli Dinos, Spanish and French
Camila Dominguez, Spanish and French
Channing Pinkos, Spanish and French
Lauren Scott, Spanish and French
Grace Sherner, Spanish and French
MATHEMATICS AWARD
Laura Duffield and
Brennan Wise
COMPUTER SCIENCE AWARD
Amanda Klock
COURTENAY MARSHALL COCHRAN AWARD FOR SCIENCE
Brennan Wise
ROY EDWARD BYRD AWARD
Heather Hawkins
STEM CERTIFICATES
Chris Chesner
Aircraft maintenance and navigation planning at Aero Elite
Bradley Cruthirds
internship at Coherent Digital where he programmed Scrappy Bots Hayden deVallance Research on waterproof textiles at the University of Pennsylvania
Jack Van Giezen
Programming and simulating input shaping for robotics controls
O'CONNOR HISTORY PRIZE
Jeremy Young
MARJORIE M. NORRIS AWARD
Lily Adams
KARIG WRITING PRIZE
Jeremy Young
CHARLES JAMES SHELL MEMORIAL PRIZE IN ENGLISH
Brennan Wise
ANN G. LINDSEY POETRY PRIZE
Ariya Harrington
MONTGOMERY AWARD FOR THE HUMANITIES
Charlotte Nichols
FRANK NIEPOLD ARTS PRIZE
August Moon
VISUAL ARTS AWARD
Lily Adams
MICHAEL HOLT AWARD
Claire Helmreich
PERFORMING ARTS AWARDS
Dramatic Arts:
Charlotte Nichols
Vocal Arts:
Heather Hawkins
Instrumental Arts:
Safira Yisrael
EDWARD E. TATE SENIOR RELIGION PRIZE
Kate Snyder
PERKINS CUP
Camila Dominguez
RECOGNITION OF MILITARY APPOINTMENTS/SCHOLARSHIPS
Bellona Akeredolu, United States Naval Academy Andrew “AJ” Degler, Air Force ROTC Scholarship at Auburn University
DEIB AWARD
Sully Naef
DISTINCTION IN SERVICE RECOGNITION
Augusta Adams, Belle Akeredolu, Ella Barker, SaraClaire Chiaramonte, Bradley Cruthirds, Alex Deas, Kalli Dinos, Brooke Dunton, Annette Dunn, Camila Dominguez, Claire Helmreich, Amanda Klock, Sarah Kotulan, Raei Legesse, Megan Mailloux, Thomas Matney, Louis Molife, Aislinn Moore, Charlotte Nichols, Channing Pinkos, James Rath, Elizabeth Rutter, Lauren Scott, Grace Sherner
MACONDRAY TROPHY
Theo Weiman
HOWARD CUP
Theo Weiman
Faculty Excellence Award: Kirsten Adams with Anne Kelly, Lower School Second Grade Teacher
Military Appointments: U.S. Air Force Representative with AJ Degler and Bellona Akeredolu with the U.S. Navy Representative
Citizenship/Spirit/Service/DEIB Awards: Alex Dias, SaraClaire Chiaramonte, Theo Weiman, Sully Naef, Kalli Dinos
STEM Awards: Brennan Wise, Amanda Klock, Laura Duffield, Heather Hawkins
Modern & Classical Language Awards: David Rhind-Tutt, Garrett Butler, Mason Mantey
World Language and STEM Certificates: (front) Channing Pinkos, Augusta Adams, Camila Dominguez, Lauren Scott, Kalli Dinos; (back) Garrett Butler, Jack Van Giezen, Chris Chesner, Bradley Cruthirds, Jonah Adams, Hayden deVallance
Yearbook Dedication: Eric Taylor, Upper School Math Teacher
SAINTS ATHLETICS CLUB AWARD
Alex Deas
SaraClaire Chiaramonte
ASSOCIATION OF PARENTS AND TEACHERS AWARD
Sully Naef
CARROLL LASTELIC AWARD
Kalli Dinos
HELENE HASKIN KRAUSE AWARD
Kate Snyder
SCHOLAR ATHLETE AWARD
Marcus King
MODEL ATHLETE FOR BOYS
Aidan Koch
DAINGERFIELD ASHTON MODEL ATHLETE
Lauren Scott
OUTSTANDING ATHLETE AWARDS
Mason Mantey
Colin Cross
MARSHA A. WAY SPORTSMANSHIP
AWARD FOR GIRLS
Grace Sherner
SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD FOR BOYS
Matty Patrone
JANE LYWOOD CUP
Ellie Foresman
SALUTATORIAN
Laura Duffield
VALEDICTORIAN
Brennan Wise
FAREWELL ADDRESS
Thomas Matney
THE ST. STEPHEN'S AND ST. AGNES MEDALS
Chris Shorter
Thomas Matney
Jeremy Young
Bryce Gunn
Camila Dominguez
Grace Sherner
Elona Michael
Athletic Awards (above):
(front) Ellie
SAINT AGNES CUP
Augusta Adams
EMMETT H. HOY, JR. CITIZENSHIP AWARD
Garrett Butler
The following awards were presented to underclassmen:
GOVERNOR'S SCHOOL RECIPIENTS
Emerson-Belle Dufault '25: French
Tate Commission '25:
Instrumental Music
Katy Hartell '25: Spanish
Reesey Lai '26: Latin
Lindsay Parsont '26: French
Suri Wang '25: Math, Science, and Technology
Arleigh Womack '26: Latin
THE JOHN MORROW STANTON MEMORIAL ATHLETIC AWARD
Ben Fenton '25
THE ESTHER CARROLL MURPHY AWARD FOR CREATIVITY
Ali Rouse '26
THE SENIOR CLASS AWARD
Tyler Troy '25
St. Stephen's and St. Agnes Medals, Saint Agnes Cup, and Emmett H. Hoy, Jr. Citizenship Award: (front) Elona Michaels, Grace Sherner, Augusta Adams, Camila Dominguez; (back) Jeremy Young, Bryce Gunn, Thomas Matney, Garrett Butler, Chris Shorter
Foresman, Mason Mantey, Grace Sherner, Lauren Scott, Kate Snyder; (back) Colin Cross, Matty Patrone, Aidan Koch, Marcus King
CUM LAUDE INDUCTION
On May 21, 23 seniors were inducted as new members of the SSSAS chapter of the Cum Laude Society, our highest academic achievement. The SSSAS Chapter of Cum Laude was established in 1991. To be considered for membership, a senior must stand in the upper 20% of the class and have attained the qualifying average for three years of secondary school. Juniors must have attained the qualifying average for two years and be in the upper 10% of their class.
Speaking at the induction, Aislinn Moore '24 spoke about the importance of balance and perspecive. and helping others. In her sophomore year, she had a strong desire to make a meaningful impact in her free time. She was inspired to join SSSAS student group Reach for the Stars that strives to lessen the mental and physical impacts of child poverty and homelessness
through a program focused on yoga and meditation, teacm sports and exercise, art and crafts, and reading. Aislinn discovered the joy of using her Spanish to connect and bond with a very shy child in the program.
“I know these words sound like a broken record but truly that day, I felt goodness as well as knowledge,” Aislinn said. “I have always gravitated to this part of the school mission because it emulates a sense of balance I have always strived for—and this experience taught me that it wasn't just goodness as well as knowledge, but goodness through my knowledge of Spanish and learned experiences. It is great if you have knowledge, but if you do not put it to good use, then it is wasted.”
Aislinn noted that there are many forms of knowledge in the world, “and the most important
type is the one that puts goodness back into the community and world.” Aislinn encouraged her classmates to “live life in the present, enjoy new or old company, create unexpected connections, go on that adventure, and find the balance that is right for you.”
The following seniors were inducted in June 2023, at the end of their junior year: Laura Duffield, Heather Hawkins, Claire Helmreich, Colton Jensen, Christian Kappel, Aislinn Moore, Charlotte Nichols, Kate Snyder, Theo Weiman, and Brennan Wise.
The seniors joining the society this past May were Lily Adams, James Brabham, Garrett Butler, Olivia Clark, Isaiah Fahden, Marcus King, Mason Mantey, Charlotte McNamara, Oliver Miller, Jack Murphy, David Rhind-Tutt, Elizabeth Rutter, and Lauren Scott.
THE SPARK IN EVERYONE
Garrett Butler '24 gave this chapel talk to the Upper School community and during Alumni Reunion Weekend.
My name is Garrett Butler, and I am a senior.
I want you all to picture yourselves standing in front of the mirror first thing in the morning. I'm willing to bet that for some of you, this is a vulnerable moment. You scrutinize your flaws and scars, spotting what you wish would disappear. Looking in the mirror, we often see a shell of imperfections, failing to see our own spark.
I, too, am guilty of this. Some of you may have seen me up here before, perhaps even with a confident appearance, but honestly, that is only because I have mastered the art of illusion. You see when I come up and speak, I don't see the same person you all see. I see the Chubby, Awkward, Unfunny kid, I was, and still feel I am at the core. But I have made strides to make this confident facade a reality. For example, I picked the
perfect job for an anxiety-ridden, somewhat socially awkward person: retail. I know this seems counterintuitive, but what's the fun in predictability?
I've learned numerous lessons from this job: time management, accountability, how to thoroughly clean toilets, the art of smiling through the pain and mastering the retail nod–a slightly sympathetic expression we give you as we silently pray that you do not ask
“Every moment of doubt, criticism, disappointment, and failure seemed to confirm my fears—I would never be good enough. The constant barrage of negativity paralyzed me.”
for the impossible. I could tell you a million stories. Once, the crazy woman who lives upstairs came in screaming, “Help! Help! There's a machine spewing things in my house.” My immediate reaction was what my friends call my trademark “what?,” but I still helped her. As I ran into her apartment, I saw that the “machine” was, in fact, her microwave and what was spewing was flames. It seemed she had decided the best place for her entire utensil drawer was inside of her microwave. Another time, a man dressed in a full tuxedo claimed to be a descendant of Napoleon himself. In his best attempt at an old English accent, he demanded a “royal discount,” which ensued in two hours of him arguing with me, to the point where I nearly had to call the police.
At this point, I am used to nearly everything, but still, this day took me by surprise. It was a Saturday morning, the weekend of our biggest sale. I flipped the sign to open, swept, and set up the racks inside and out. I thought I was ready for what the day was to bring.
That was until I saw a man walking along the racks outside stealthily and somewhat
suspiciously. His anxious demeanor and wandering eyes put me on high alert; experience had taught me to recognize these signs. My suspicions proved correct as the man tried to swipe three shirts from the rack, strolling away as if nothing had happened. As I ran to the door with my manager, fully expecting the man to retaliate or fight back, the man calmly returned the items and, to my surprise, said, “I'm sorry, I tried. Do you know why?” While I gave him a point for being an honest criminal, to me, his actions spoke louder than his remorse. However, his calm demeanor and unexpected apology left me curious. So, I decided to entertain the conversation he wanted to have. He was a veteran from North Dakota who had served our country with pride but had fallen on hard times. The man had literally walked from North Dakota to Virginia. His appearance was disheveled, his clothes bound with holes, and his eyes weary. Yet his faint smile spoke volumes, a silent plea for understanding. In this vulnerable moment, he explained he struggled with PTSD, anxiety, and severe depression. His voice trembled as he spoke, “I never imagined I would be
in this place, living like this. I had a good life.” He spoke with sincerity, his words heavy with the weight of guilt.
While I cannot say I have had an experience like his, the weight of vulnerability, doubt, and insecurity is a burden I've come to know intimately. As children, we have a sort of innocence, a level of protection from comparison. Throughout Lower and Middle School, I was perfectly content with my awkward, chubby, unfunny self. Then came the point where I gained self-consciousness, high school.
Confidence became my weakest trait—confidence in my appearance, ability, and whether what I have to share genuinely matters. In turn, I did and often still do retreat into silence, unwilling to share my true ideas for fear of others' perceptions. I became hyper-aware of how delayed I was in terms of growth compared to my classmates. I even had a shriekingly high voice that could have shattered glass. I liked to play sports but wasn't tall, fast, or fit enough to participate. I never really “excelled” at anything. Anxiety and hyper-fixation began to consume me, and the more I fixated on my shortcomings, the louder my inner critic became. Every moment of doubt, criticism, disappointment, and failure seemed to confirm my fears—I would never be good enough. The constant barrage of negativity paralyzed me. Even in moments of success, that nagging voice persisted, whispering that my achievements were earned by pure luck, not by merit. The fear
“I realized our spark doesn't come from our appearance or success, but is the essence of our being. It encompasses our passions, talents, values, and dreams. It gives us purpose and meaning, and the beautiful truth is that we all have one. ”
of failure and anxiety became a barrier to me pursuing my passions, trapping me in an endless cycle of hesitation and missed opportunities Even doing this chapel talk was nearly an impossible task for me as I tried to push myself to be vulnerable with the audience.
Yet, amidst these struggles, I am here to tell you there is hope to take control and silence this critic. It was the morning before my first chapel serving in the vestry. Before the service started, I stood in the CPAC bathroom performing my typical routine—fixing my tie, quaffing my hair, and trying to create a put-together appearance. If I looked like I knew what I was
doing, maybe the audience would believe it. Despite my efforts, that familiar, anxious pit churned in my stomach. As I sighed deeply, the wise and funny Myles Sandy, our former school president and one of my role models, entered the bathroom. To my surprise, someone I saw and still see as the epitome of confidence paused to look in the mirror and began performing a similar routine. It was a universal experience. Recognizing my anxiousness, he turned and smiled, saying something along the lines of, “It's funny how we all come in here before chapel, trying to fix up our looks, but at the same time, they can't see our flaws on stage, and we can't see theirs.” As I walked out of the bathroom and took my place in the procession, I could not focus on the sermon. While this moment may have seemed insignificant to Myles, I was particularly moved by what he had said.
The harsh glow of the LED light that hung above that mirror seemed to expose every flaw, reducing me to my physical appearance and the burdens I carried, leaving me feeling vulnerable in the presence of others and God. Yet, in that moment, someone had seen the spark in me. Myles illumed a different kind of light–our shared humanity, reminding me that we all carry hopes, fears, and flaws. I realized our spark doesn't come from our appearance or success, but is the essence of our being. It encompasses our passions, talents, values, and dreams. It gives us purpose and meaning, and the beautiful truth is that we all have one.
When deciding what to
do with the man who had shoplifted, I thought about this moment with Myles. Initially, I had reduced the man to just a “thief.” I saw him for his actions and his appearance, not his soul. I made judgments about him based on my own ignorance and assumptions without truly trying to see him. He had traveled countless miles physically and emotionally on the journey called life, yet in the beginning, I saw only him for his worn shell.
But as our conversation concluded, I was humbled by his courage, moved by his honesty, and inspired by his resilience. When I began to try to glimpse beyond his surface, I saw that he was a person with a past, present, and future. He was more than just his actions; he was just as deserving of understanding as I was or anyone else. So, I chose to forgive him. I wanted to be the Myles for him at that moment, hoping that through our exchange, he would begin to understand his inherent worth despite his past mistakes. As Myles had seen the flicker in me, I hoped this encounter would reignite the man's spark.
Still, this experience raises the question of how we can cultivate and recognize the spark within ourselves and others. Life can often feel like a constant performance on a stage where we feel overshadowed and inadequate, but God invites our confidence to lie in him. In today's reading, God is speaking through the prophet Isaiah to the exiles in Babylon—who were banished from their homeland because of their unfaithfulness. They had turned away from
“God's love is unconditional and unwavering. It knows no bounds or imperfections. ”
God, creating new deities and living in sin. Still, God assures them, saying, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you. For I am the Lord your
God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior… You are honored, and I love you.”
God's love is unconditional and unwavering. It knows no bounds or imperfections. Regardless of our religious backgrounds, ideologies, and beliefs, in a world where we constantly define ourselves by external standards, we must remember that we are cherished and beloved. We all carry a spark, just as the man had. Our imperfections do not dwindle our sparks but remind us of our shared humanity and boundless growth potential. We are called to abandon our fears, doubts, and insecurities because we have not been abandoned. We fail, and we fall, but we can seek refuge in the fact that God has not turned a blind eye to us. Even when we
feel inadequate or worthless, the audience can't see our flaws, and we can't see theirs. No matter what, someone sees that spark in us.
So today and every day I encourage you to be the Myles for someone else. Let someone know you see the spark in them. The next time you all look in the mirror, reflecting on your socalled flaws and imperfections, I urge you to also look for your own spark. To see the beautiful creation that you are, to embrace your vulnerability, and to listen to the lessons it has to teach. Do not let fear, doubts, or insecurities define you or your journey; use them as catalysts for change. Strength does not lie in the absence of fear but in the courage to embrace it head-on. Amen.
Garrett Butler '24, Ifede Banjo '36, and Madison Sandy '24 at the all-school Thanksgiving service.
UPPER SCHOOL PERFORMING ARTS AWARDS
On May 20, the participation and achievements of our Upper School actors, musicians, and singers were celebrated.
SENIOR RECOGNITIONS
STAGE ONE
Lily Adams
Sophie Breckinridge
Alex Deas
Kalli Dinos
Nicholas Gacad
Heather Hawkins
Raei Legesse
Elona Michael
Gabriella Miller Milow
August Moon
Charlotte Nichols
Luke Rapallo
Elizabeth Rutter
Grace Sherner
Matt Smith
Brennan Wise
Madeline Wolcott
Safira Yisrael
CONCERT CHOIR
Olivia Clark
Heather Hawkins
Danielle Hines
Elizabeth Rutter
Kate Snyder
WIND ENSEMBLE
Elias Androus
Dominick DiRienzo
Sully Naef
Charlotte Nichols
Grace Sherner
Safira Yisrael
JAZZ BAND
Alex Deas
AJ Degler
Preston Heilig
Matty Leonardo
ORCHESTRA
Colton Jensen
Kyla Rouse
Lauren Scott
Kate Snyde
Brennan Wise
Jeremy Young
OTHER RECOGNITIONS
District Chorus
Noor El Allagui '27
Mitchell DeBoer '27
Heather Hawkins '24
Reesey Lai '26
Kate Snyder '24
ACDA Southern Region Chorus
Aden Wright '27
Cappies Critics
In order to participate in the Cappies, each member school recruits student critics to be trained in the discipline of theatre criticism and represent their schools at least five high school plays and musicals in the DMV. This gives them a chance to engage in conversations about theater with other high school students, as they typically spend up to an hour discussing each show. Then they work under an intense deadline to turn around thoughtful, well-written reviews of their peers' work.
Janney Cooper '26
Dimitri Criswell '25
Charles McElwain '25
Aislinn Moore '24
Charlotte Nichols '24
Cate Nickson '25
Elizabeth Rutter '24
Tatum Spencer '26
Tyler Troy '25
Alternate: Max Gehlhoff '26
“Sound of Music” Pit Orchestra
Charlotte Barnes '27
Harrison Barnes '25
Sam Brock '26
Alex Brown '25
Alethea Callahan '23
Tate Commission '25
Dimitri Criswell '25
Alex Deas '24
Kalli Dinos '24
Henry Drevna '27
Paul Eisenberg '25
Declan Gaffney '25
Micah Gura '25
Anne Louden Kostel '25
Grace Sherner '24
Eli York-Simmons '25
Suri Wang '25
Brennan Wise '24
Safira Yisrael '24
National Society of Arts & Letters
Performing Arts Awards
Excellence Award: Tate Commission '25
Merit Award: Charles McElwain '25
MUSIC AWARDS
Director's Award
The Director's Awards honor students who have demonstrated superior musicianship, loyalty and dependable leadership to the concert choir, orchestra, and wind ensemble programs throughout the year.
Concert Choir: Danielle Hines '24
Orchestra: Dimitri Criswell '25
Wind Ensemble: Safira Yisrael '24
National Music Awards
These awards are nationwide symbols of excellence in musical achievement. They are the highest honors that can be bestowed upon a single member of the concert choir, orchestra, wind ensemble recognizing dedication, leadership, and superior musicianship.
National Choir Award: Heather Hawkins '24
National School Orchestra Award Tate Commission '25
Sousa Band Award
Paul Eisenberg '25
Director's Award: (left) Danielle Hines '24 and Choir Teacher Dallas Byrne; (center) Dimitri Criswell '25 and Music Teacher Jim Criswell; (right) Safira Yisrael '24
WIND ENSEMBLE
Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award
This award was introduced in 1994 in honor of a legendary bandmaster and impresario to recognize a student who exemplifies the qualities of dedication and superior musicianship.
Suri Wang '25
JAZZ BAND
Louis Armstrong Trophy
Inaugurated in 1974, the Louis Armstrong Trophy honors an outstanding jazz musician in each high school nationally for the highest qualities of dedication, character, and discipline to the jazz band program while achieving the highest musical standards required of jazz music.
Micah Gura '25
Woody Herman Award
Created in 1988, this prestigious accolade is presented to an outstanding high school jazz musician who displays exceptional musicianship, creativity, and dedication to the art of jazz. Recipients of the award are recognized for their talent and are encouraged to continue pursuing their passion for jazz music.
Anne Louden Kostel '25
THEATER AWARDS
The Rookie Award
Presented to students in each grade who plunged into theater for the first time this year, grew tremendously as theater artists, and who had a dramatic impact on the program through their dedication, joy, and readiness to seek out new artistic challenges.
Freshmen
Grace Laha
Weston Green-Kennedy
Sophomores
Lucas Kalo
Ramtulai Jalloh
Juniors
Grace Hendy
Seniors
Lily Adams
Cappies Commendees
Each year, directors of theater programs participating in the Cappies may name up to four students as Cappies Commendees, a category designed to recognize actors, designers, managers, and technicians for their extraordinary contributions to their school's theater program—whether on a Cappies show or not.
Janney Cooper '26
Max Gehlhoff '26
Reesey Lai '26
Olivia Pla '26
The Ghost Light Award
Presented to a student who embodies the spirit of the stage ghost light— the light bulb in a cage on a stand, very heavy duty and reliable which is placed on stages when all the other lights are off. The ghost light keeps everyone safe and as the light that is always on in the dark, it is representative of a student who is always asking what they can do to help out, who is a quiet presence, and who provides a bit of a safety net.
Gracie Hunsicker '25
The Theater Performance and Production Awards
Presented to two students who are devoted and passionate about theater, delight in the process as well as the product, and demonstrate an outstanding responsibility to numerous Stage One productions.
Theater Performance Award: Gabriella Miller Milow '24
The Theater Production Award
Matt Smith '24
The Triple-Threat
For being in concert choir, instrumental ensemble, and theater this year.
Max Gehlhoff '26, Tyler Troy '25
The Commitment to Excellence in Theater Award
Presented annually to a student who consistently demonstrates a love for and dedication to the dramatic arts. This student knows that individual success is possible only through teamwork; and that diligence, collaboration, respect, and delight in the art and craft of theater are the cornerstones of successful productions.
Elizabeth Rutter '24
Senior Dramatic Arts Award
Charlotte Nichols '24
Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award: Suri Wang '25
Clockwise from top left: Olivia Cushman '26, Gabriella Miller Milow '24, Max Gehlhoff '26, Charlotte Nichols '24, August Moon '24, and Arleigh Womack '26 performing a scene from “The Sound of Music.” Triple Threat Award winner Tyler Troy '25 in “Pride and Prejudice.” Woody Herman Award winner Anne Louden Kostel '25. Elizabeth Rutter '24, Gabriella Miller Milow '24, and Charles McElwain '25 performing a scene from “Pride and Prejudice.”
LOOK FOR THE BEST
Middle School Director William “Bee” Stribling addressed the Class of 2028 at their Recognition Ceremony on June 5.
It is an honor to deliver the charge to the Class of 2028. Parents, families, friends, and loved ones: thank you for helping us celebrate today. I'll forever remember this group as the first eighth grade class to survive Ms. Crawford's and my leadership of the Middle School. That's no small feat.
Now that you have those diplomas in your hands, we're just about ready to send you off to summer for some hard-earned relaxation. But before we do, a little reflection on your time in Middle School is in order.
First, I think I speak for the faculty in saying that we are so incredibly proud of you. Over the course of your time here at the Middle School, you've met each day with enthusiasm, wonder, and humor.
Your enthusiasm was evident in the way you dove into projects and activities, whether it was the excitement you brought to spirit weeks, the energy you showed during sports events, or the dedication you displayed in your studies and extracurriculars.
Your sense of wonder shone through in the curiosity you brought to every class. You asked thoughtful questions, explored new ideas, and embraced the increased expectations of middle school. From science experiments that had you asking “why” and “how,” to history lessons that sparked your
interest in different cultures and times, your inquisitiveness has been inspiring.
And your humor—oh, how you've kept us all smiling! Well, mostly smiling, right Mr. Japha? From your witty remarks in class discussions to the laughter you shared during lunchtime and school events, you've created a joyful atmosphere that made the Middle School a fun place to be. Your ability to find humor in most situations has been a testament to your positive spirit.
With those dispositions, you've found great success in Middle School, and all of your accomplishments are proof of that:
• You've led the first-ever bonding trip with all three grades to Sandy Hill
• Carried the cross, read, or sang at Chapel with your advisory
• Competed in athletics
• Danced, sang, and performed in a dozen performances ranging from Jack O'Lantern Jubilee, spring concerts, and Saint Got Talent
• Traveled near and far for Mini Courses
• Represented your peers in The Council
• Completed the 8th grade Capstone Project
• Made it through Final Exams
And the list could go on. Like I said, you've found plenty of success here.
So, what advice for the future could I possibly have for such a successful group? I would tell you to remember that people usually find what they're looking for. People find what they're looking for. What do I mean by that? If you expect to find negativity, you can find something negative in any situation. If you expect to find the positive, you're sure to find a silver lining in any situation, too. Mr. Davis, I believe there is a scientific law for this phenomenon, is there not? Something about if the only tool you have is a hammer?
So—
Look for the best in the world around you. Seek out beauty in nature, art, and the everyday moments that make life special. Be more curious than certain, take a chance on a new opportunity, put your trust in someone new. You'll have plenty of time and chances to do so in upper school. Take advantage of them.
Look for the best in others. Everyone you meet has a story, a talent, and something unique to offer. Practice empathy and kindness, and you'll find that relationships built on understanding and respect are the most rewarding. Support
“Look for the best in yourself. Recognize your strengths and stretch yourself. Set goals, be persistent, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and learn from your failures. ”
your friends, appreciate your family, and be open to new friendships.
Look for the best in yourself. Recognize your strengths and stretch yourself. Set goals, be persistent, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and learn from your failures. Believe in your potential and just keep swimming. After all, this is the grade that dared us to look for and eventually find Nemo. Keep the same sense of enthusiasm, wonder, and humor with you as you go looking for new experiences in high school and beyond. Seek out opportunities to grow, both in your academics and
in your personal life. Build new friendships, embrace challenges, and always remember that the strength you've shown here will carry you far.
You are prepared for life in the Upper School. Your teachers and families have made sure of that. I also hope that you will find the time to come back and visit your teachers and advisors here at the middle school. We've enjoyed watching you grow and will always be eager to hear about your new adventures and successes.
Congratulations, Class of 2028. We believe in you and we are excited for all that your future holds.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
The eighth grade was celebrated and recognized with a ceremony on June 5.
FREE FROM FEAR
William McCusker '28 was honored to read his eighth grade “This I Believe” essay at the Eighth Grade Recognition Ceremony on June 5.
I believe that if you are living life in fear, then you aren't really living it at all. Many events in my life have proved this to be utterly true, but one seems to stand out from the rest.
My tireless seventh grade year had finally been drawn to a conclusion and the ecstasy of the summer was finally upon me. But the dreary days of leisure were far from the entertainment I had envisioned. A few weeks into my summer the day-today routine was seeming to be much less of the heaven I had imagined but more like the matrix. I came to the realization that all I was finding from my
summer was boredom and sheer unfulfillment. Somewhat to my relief this cycle was about to end. For a good number of years my family planned to make a high adventure trip to a place called Quetico, North of Minnesota. They started planning this trip when I was around nine but for years it had been delayed by COVID or some other nefarious problem. When they first planned this expedition, I was certainly not going to go because of my inexperience and young age. But since there were so many delays my uncle and grandfather perceived that this might have changed in four years. Eager for
adventure and confident in some skills I had picked up from my meager time in Boy Scouts, I had volunteered to accompany them after my current school year had concluded. Shortly after the dawn of my thirteenth birthday I had lost all the short months of time left to deny and regret my fateful decision.
As the day of embarkment grew closer and closer thoughts of dread consumed my mind. Was I ready for this kind of experience? Would me and my canoe get lost on the maze of endless waters? I heard the mosquitos could be pretty bad too. My ultimate fear was the sheer difficulty of what
was ahead. Though these fears clouded my mind I knew that the choice was no longer in my hands. I had said I would go and that is what I had to do. Finally preparation had ended and the time was upon me.
The first day was hellish but exhilarating. All day was nonstop paddling and portaging. It was far more difficult than anything I had ever experienced, but we were determined to reach our distant destination known as Louisa Falls. The next day, due to unthinkably strong winds we had to make a near impossible decision to take an alternate route through a dangerous swamp. Miles long, it stretched and curved to the destination that we desired. The lily pads that dotted the narrow passage were a truly beautiful sight but a few times we saw thin and slimy forms dart through the water around us. The mosquitoes swamped us in thick black clouds, obscuring our vision, and piercing our tattered nets. Many times, the water got so shallow we had to get out of our canoes and lug them through the murky waters hoping nothing would decide to bite us. Finally, we were out. Then, my uncle said “All right boys, we got our toughest portage yet and then were into the swamp!” Unfortunately, I was wrong to assume the worst was over. After many hours of paddling under the hot sun I started losing consciousness. I don't remember much about that day but I do remember I had never felt anything like it. A dangerous case of heat stroke sunk me into a state of pain and delusion. Finally, it was over. The trip was fraught with
difficulties. But when going back to my experience my first and long-lasting reaction to the immaculate scenery was dumbfound awe. I had been camping before but nothing like this. The pristine lakes and wildernesses were untouched by man and left completely to the animals and those brave enough to venture into them. Since the beginning of my trip, my unfounded fears started to crumble as I felt more adapted to the land surrounding me. I might not have been completely capable of this experience on my own but no one would let anything bad happen to me. With my older cousins' navigational skills, I was sure to never get lost. Miles away from any civilization I truly was able to feel free and alive.
On the return journey, I was thinking about all the difficulties
I had gone through and how for the rest of eternity I would just lay on my couch and be as lazy as humanly possible. Then my grandfather interrupted my thoughts. “Well, are you glad you went?” He nonchalantly asked. My first thought was “Definitely not!” After all that we had gone through wouldn't it have just been better to pass on this trip? It would seem so, but then I realized that if I hadn't done this adventure, I would just be shying away in fear of what's difficult. I told him, “Yes, I am glad.” I realized that my only fear now was to give into fear and let my young age be wasted to luxury. I had lived more and laughed more during the last week than I had in all my life. The joy of existence is lost to those who let fear rule their life.
Arts Awards: Eighth Graders Colby Comer, Mehon Aklilu, Liam Riedy, Margaret Gangi, Everyly Kunz, Aleyna Kara, CeCe Schuemann
Math & Science Awards: Sarah Eisenberg '28, Cooper Spies '28, Colby Comer '28, Will French '28, Ari Strauss '29, Fiona Amunson '29
Athletic Saints Award: Eleni Davis '28, Landon Scott '28
Humanities Awards: Eighth Graders Even Hendy, Will French, Addy McGill, Chloe Lehman, William Jones, Kadija Jalloh
Director's Awards: Will Morrell '28, Cate French '30, Elia Herve'30, Derrick Haynes '29, Nadia Shorter '28
St. Stephen's and St. Agnes Cup: Liam Riedy '28
Nuckolls Fellowship Prize: Evan Hendy '28, Sloan Norment '28
MIDDLE SCHOOL AWARDS DAY
On June 3, these awards were presented to the following students in recognition of their achievements in academics, the arts, athletics, citizenship, and service.
DEPARTMENT EXCELLENCE AWARDS
Awarded to eighth grade students for demonstrating strong scholarship and interest in a particular subject.
The Band Award
Colby Comer
The Chorus Award
Mehon Aklilu, Nadia Shorter
The Drama Award
Liam Riedy, CeCe Schuemann
The English Award
Evan Hendy, Khadija Jalloh
The French Award
Evan Hendy, Mia Reinke
The History Award
William Jones, Addy McGill
The Latin Award
Sarah Eisenberg
The Math Award
Sarah Eisenberg, Will French
The Orchestra Award
Aleyna Kara
The Religion Award
Will French, Chloe Lehman
The Saints Athletic Award
Eleni Davis, Landon Scott
The Science Award
Colby Comer, Cooper Spies
The Spanish Award
Mehon Aklilu, Margaret Gangi
The Visual Arts Award
Margaret Gangi, Everly Kunz
BROOKS MATH AWARD
Fiona Amunson '29, Ari Strauss '29
RICHARD P. BABYAK AWARDS
For making our school community a better place through their actions throughout the year.
Jordan Biggs '30, Brady Hendy '30
Lena Payne '30, Alex Wayer '30
Marley Clift '29, Amelia Grimes '29
Noah Levy '29, Harry Rouse '29
Jordan Biggs '28, Brady Hendy '28
Lena Payne '28, Alex Wayer '28
DIRECTOR'S AWARD
For demonstrating character, tenacity, and intellect.
Cate French '30, Elia Herve '30
Derrick Haynes '29, Lindsey Miller '29
Will Morrell '28, Nadia Shorter '28
SINCLAIR CUP
For exemplifying loyalty, integrity, leadership, cooperation, and scholastic endeavor in seventh grade.
GiGi Hargis, Charlotte Terwilliger
STEBBINS CUP
For exemplifying community spirit, compassion, and consideration of other in sixth grade.
Charlie Dore, Maddie Haines
SUZANNE GRIFFIN NUCKOLLS FELLOWSHIP PRIZE
For possessing the best qualities of a true friend in eighth grade.
Evan Hendy, Sloan Norment
ST. STEPHEN'S AND ST. AGNES CUP
Awarded to an eighth grade student for exemplifying scholarship, character, leadership, and citizenship.
Liam Riedy
MOVING ON
The Fifth Grade Recognition address given by Lower School Director LaNessa
West on June 4.
As we gather here today to celebrate the graduation of our 5th-grade class, I am filled with pride and optimism for each of our Saints. This year, our students have not only excelled academically but have also shown remarkable commitment, dedication, leadership, and talent. They have been Math Night game facilitators, safety patrols, performers, kindergarten buddies, and so much more. Each day, these students have done something to impress us all.
Our faculty and staff have had the privilege of watching them grow and flourish over the years. Even though I haven't known them as long, I have witnessed tremendous growth in this fifth grade class this year. They have demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to step up and lead.
In just a few moments, they will reflect on their years in the Lower School. I am sure they may remember, and parents, I'm sure you remember, the first day many of them walked through those doors— some with excitement, others a bit nervous. Today, I see a class of confident, curious, and capable young individuals ready for their next adventure in Middle School.
Recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to have lunch with a few of our fifth graders. I wanted to hear about their Lower School journey. I was in awe of their candor and thoughtful responses as they reflected on their time here. Their insights and memories truly
highlight the incredible journey they have had. Here's what they shared.
Some students fondly remembered activities like pushing their limits at Caleva, researching Native American tribes, making futuristic civilizations, and visiting the spy museum.
Some of them shared invaluable lessons learned along the way that included, “it's okay to let friends go,” or the importance of being flexible. They also discovered what it means to be a leader and the value of persistence, even when things seem hard. They've learned to be empathetic, to put their best foot forward, and to stay optimistic no matter the circumstances.
They have found inspiration in their teachers and peers. Whether it was a music or art teacher who encouraged them to do better, or a classroom teacher who made sure they felt heard and understood, they know that these influences have shaped who they are today. They've also been inspired by their friends and family who have supported them along the way.
Many of them were proud of their accomplishments, whether it was participating in the Christmas performance, improving their reading skills, having a leading role during chapel, making it through the challenges of distance learning or overcoming the fear of performing in the talent show. These achievements are a testament to their hard work, persistence, resilience and determination.
I want to extend a special thank you to our dedicated teachers and supportive parents who have guided these young minds to this significant day. Your unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in their growth and success.
As you step into this new chapter, we are going to miss you, but I know you're going to be just fine. I believe you have all had the opportunity to meet or at least see Mr. Stribling. While I refer to the Lower School as an oasis of joy, he refers to the Middle School as “The Sizzle in the Middle”! As you prepare to experience “the sizzle,” remember that Middle School will bring new opportunities to learn, grow, and discover your passions. I want you to embrace these opportunities, challenge yourselves, and remember that making mistakes is a part of learning.
To all our fifth graders, remember that somewhere inside all of us is the power to change the world. You have already begun to make your mark, and we can't wait to see what you will achieve next.
Congratulations! We are all incredibly proud of you, and we can't wait to see what you will accomplish in Middle School and beyond.
2023-2024 SAINTS ATHLETIC AWARDS
On May 29 St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School presented these awards in recognition of our students' achievements in athletics.
THE COACH'S AWARD
The Coach's Award recognizes non-varsity athletes who have demonstrated a positive attitude, high level of sportsmanship and who are always cooperative and supportive of their teammates as well as opponents. Through their conscientious practice habits, they not only develop their own skills, but help others improve their ability as well.
THE OUTSTANDING ATHLETE AWARD
The Outstanding Athlete Award recognizes the best overall athlete(s) on the team. The recipients are chosen by the coaches based on playing ability and overall contributions to the team.
THE SAINT AWARD
The Saint Award recognizes the athletes who have exhibited a positive attitude, a desire to achieve and determination throughout the season. These athletes are selected by their peers and demonstrate an unselfish contribution to the welfare of the team and are dedicated to excellence in athletics.
ONE SAINT AWARD
Given to a person that exemplifies Saints pride through their unwavering support of athletics. Andrew “Andy” Sidle '78
SAINTS COACH OF THE YEAR
Robert Watson, Track & Field
FALL SEASON AWARDS
COACH'S AWARD:
Cross Country: Jackson Sipple-Asher '27
JV Field Hockey: Tatum Spencer '26
JV Football: Langston Banks '26
JV Soccer: Mason Khosla '27
JV Soccer: Sophie Buckley '25
JV Tennis: Sera Rhind-Tutt '27
JV Volleyball: Dior Brown '27
OUTSTANDING ATHLETE AWARD:
Cross Country: Marcus King '24
Cross Country: Lauren Scott '24
Field Hockey: Augusta Jay '27
Football: Luke Pascal '24
Soccer: Colton Jensen '24, Simon Rebstock '25
Soccer: Katy Hartell '25
Tennis: Claire Hanley '25
Volleyball: Bailee Montgomery '27
SAINT AWARD:
Cross Country: Jeremy Young '24
Cross Country: Sydney Wanamaker '27
Field Hockey: Annette Dunn '24
Football: Matty Patrone '24
Soccer: Thomas Matney '24
Soccer: Jamie Hodgkinson '25
Tennis: Mason Mantey '24
Volleyball: Maddie McDowell '25
ALL-IAC RECOGNITION:
Colin Cross '24: Football
AJ Degler '24: Soccer
Charlie Desautels '26: Soccer
Will Evans '25: Football
Noah Finley '24: Soccer
Bryce Gunn '24: Football
Colton Jensen '24: Soccer
Luke Pascal '24: Football
Kaz Penkiunas '25: Football
Carter Stimson '25: Football
BERNARD JOSEPH AND ROBERT WATSON
CLAIRE HANLEY '25
COLTON JENSEN '24
ALL-ISL RECOGNITION:
Claire Hanley '25: Tennis
Katy Hartell '25: Soccer
Augusta Jay '27: Field Hockey
VISAA ALL-STATE RECOGNITIONS:
Honorable Mention
Colin Cross '24: Football, LB
Bryce Gunn '24: Football, RB
Kaz Penkiunas '25: Football, LB
Second Team
Luke Pascal '24: Football, WR
Will Evans '25: Football, OL
Carter Stimson '25: Football, P
AJ Degler '24: Soccer
Colton Jensen '24: Soccer
First Team
Carter Stimson '25: Football, K
All-State for Cross Country
Lauren Scott '24
ALL-MET:
Colton Jensen '24: Soccer Honorable Mention
Carter Stimson '24: Football First Team
WINTER SEASON AWARDS
COACH'S AWARD:
Freshman Basketball: Mason Khosla '27
JV Boys Basketball: Walker Ferry '26
JV Squash: Georgia Neaderland '26
JV Basketball: Kendra O'Neil '27
JV Squash: Olivia Pla '26
JV Squash: William Thissell '25
OUTSTANDING ATHLETE AWARD:
Basketball: Blake Neal '24
Basketball: Belle Akeredolu '24
Ice Hockey: Jack Gans '25, Louis Molife '24
Swim & Dive: Evan Ingraham '25
Swim & Dive: Haley Lehman '25
Track & Field: Bradley Cruthirds '24
Track & Field: Lauren Scott '24
Wrestling: James Blackman '24
SAINT AWARD:
Basketball: Kyan Bowman '24
Basketball: Sierra Gutierrez '24
Ice Hockey: Trey Knott '24
Swim & Dive: Cole Lieberthal '27
Swim & Dive: Finley Knutson '25
Track & Field: Jonah Adams '24
Track & Field: Ali Rouse '26
Wrestling: Carson Bishop '27
JAMES BLACKMAN '24
BLAKE NEAL '24
LAUREN SCOTT '24
AUGUSTA JAY '27
KATY HARTELL'25
BAILEE MONTGOMERY '27
BRYCE GUNN '24
CARTER STIMSON '25
All-IAC RECOGNITIONS:
James Blackman '24: Wrestling
Zack Helmreich '27: Wrestling
Evan Ingraham '25: Swimming
Riley Jacobs '25: Basketball
Trey Knott '24: Ice Hockey
Aidan Koch '24: Wrestling
Blake Neal '24: Basketball
All-ISL RECOGNITIONS:
Belle Akeredolu '24: Basketball
Annabelle Bremner '27: Swimming
Lila Brock '27: Swimming
Elisabeth Carroll '25: Swimming
Haley Lehman '25: Swimming
VISAA ALL-STATE RECOGNITION:
Swim & Dive All-State
Annabelle Bremner '27
Haley Lehman '25
Wrestling All-State
James Blackman '24: 2nd
Jeremiah Biggs '24: 4th
Aidan Koch '24: 5th
Carson Bishop '27: 6th
Jared Biggs '26: 6th
ALL MET RECOGNITIONS:
James Blackman '24: Wrestling First Team
Haley Lehman '25: Swimming Second Team
SPRING SEASON:
COACH'S AWARD:
JV Baseball: Sam Brock '26
JV Golf: Gavin Goldstein '26
JV Lacrosse: Carson Bishop '27
JV Lacrosse: Lucy Kolton '26
JV Tennis: Jonah Wagner '26
OUTSTANDING ATHLETE AWARD:
Baseball: Aiden Potholm '25
Golf: Jacob Foti '24
Lacrosse: Ben Fenton '25
Lacrosse: Mason Mantey '24
Lacrosse: Abby Musser '24
Softball: Ariya Harrington '26
Tennis: George Woodford '27
Track & Field: Bradley Cruthirds '24
Track & Field: Lauren Scott '24
SAINT AWARD:
Baseball: Aidan Koch '24
Golf: Matthew Dougherty '26
Lacrosse: Matty Patrone '24
Lacrosse: Ellie Foresman '24
Softball: Sarah Kotulan '24
Tennis: Theo Weiman '24
Track & Field: Tawon Figaro '26
Track & Field: Sylvie McGoldrick '27
ALL-IAC RECOGNITION:
Jacob Foti '24: Golf
Oliver Miller '24: Baseball
Jack Murphy '24: Baseball
Jonathan O'Bryant-Graves '24: Lacrosse
Luke Pascal '24: Lacrosse
George Woodford '27: Tennis
ALL-ISL RECOGNITION:
Emily Alperstein '26: Lacrosse
Farrah DeVaughn '25: Track & Field
Ariya Harrington '26: Softball
Madison Hughes '26: Track & Field
Chloe Lambert '26: Lacrosse
Hayley Lookadoo '25: Track & Field
Mason Mantey '24: Lacrosse
Abby Musser '24: Lacrosse
Lauren Scott '24: Track & Field
Addie Youree '26: Softball
VISAA ALL-STATE RECOGNITION:
Honorable Mention
Hayley Lookadoo '25: Track & Field (300m hurdles)
Madison Hughes '26, Hayley Lookadoo '25, Lauren Scott '24, Farrah DeVaughn '25: Track & Field (4x100m Relay)
Second Team
Summer Bickley '26: Lacrosse
Madison Hughes '26: Track & Field (100m dash)
Maddie Moore '25: Lacrosse
Luke Pascal '24: Lacrosse
First Team
Chloe Lambert '26: Lacrosse
Mason Mantey '24: Lacrosse
Abby Musser '24: Lacrosse
WASHINGTON POST ALL-MET HONOREES
Emily Alperstein '26, Lacrosse Honorable Mention
Jacob Foti '24, Golf First Team
Chloe Lambert '26, Lacrosse Honorable Mention
Mason Mantey '24, Lacrosse Honorable Mention
Maddie Moore '25, Lacrosse Honorable Mention
Abby Musser '24, Lacrosse Second Team
Jonathan O'Bryant-Graves '24, Lacrosse Honorable Mention
Luke Pascal '24, Lacrosse Honorable Mention
ANNABELLE BREMNER '27
ABBY MUSSER '24
EVAN INGRAHAM '25
ADDITIONAL AWARDS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
NFHCA National Academic Squad
Augusta Adams '24, Sandhya Augustine '25, Jackie Beauregard '24, Tess Bradley '24, Annette Dunn '24, Bennett Harrison '25, Finley Knutson '25, Kate Kolton '25, Carmyn Lee '25, Megan Mailloux '24, Channing Pinkos '24, Grace Sherner '24, Madeline Wolcott '24
MAPHL All-League Selections
Trey Knott '24: First Team
Jack Sibbald '25: Second Team
Jack Gans '25: Second Team
Brian Fleury: Coach of the Year
NEW SCHOOL RECORDS
Top 20 All-Time Cross Country Board:
Marcus King '24 (18:31.50)
Lauren Scott '24 (21:28.57)
Sydney Wanamaker '27 (22:00.00)
Swimming:
100 Breaststroke: Annabelle Bremner '27 (1:06.24)
100 Fly: Evan Ingraham '25 (50.20)
200 Free: Haley Lehman '25 (1:52.98)
200 Medley Relay: Annabelle Bremner '27, Lila Brock '27, Elisabeth Carroll '25, Haley Lehman '25 (1:49.01)
200 Free Relay: Annabelle Bremner '27, Lila Brock '27, Elisabeth Carroll '25, Haley Lehman '25 (1:39.00)
400 Free Relay: Lila Brock '27, Annabelle Bremner '27, Elisabeth Carroll '25, Haley Lehman '25 (3:39.38)
Boys Track & Field:
4x800m Relay: Jonah Adams '24, Bradley Cruthirds '24, Tawon Figaro '26, James London '25 (8:26.66)
ALEXANDRIA SPORTSMAN'S CLUB ATHLETE OF THE MONTH WINNERS:
Luke Pascal '24: Football
Charlie Desautels '26: Soccer
AJ Degler '24: Soccer
Lauren Scott '24: Cross Country
James Blackman '24: Wrestling
Blake Neal '24: Basketball
ALEXANDRIA
SPORTSMAN'S CLUB
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
WINNERS:
Colton Jensen '24: Soccer
Carter Stimson '25: Football
Lauren Scott '24: Girls Cross
Country
James Blackman '24: Wrestling
Trey Knott '24: Ice Hockey
Jacob Foti '24: Golf
Mason Mantey '24: Lacrosse
Bradley Cruthirds '24: Track & Field
THE ATHLETIC
COUNCIL SILVER BOWL PARTICIPATION AWARDS
10 out of 12 seasons
Colin Cross
Nicholas Gacad
Alex Williams
11 out of 12 seasons
Jonah Adams
Andrew Bremner
Bradley Cruthirds
Armer Harrison
Lauren Scott
All 12 seasons
Lizzy Moorman
Grace Sherner
Mark Turner
Jeremy Young
THREE SPORT ATHLETES:
Freshman:
Malcolm Beane
Carson Bishop
Ryan Bucceri
Cole Chadwick
Nadia Chebinou
Aubri Clark
Sabrina Dunton
Noor El Allagui
Taliyah Figaro
Reid Gandhi
Warren Harper
Zack Helmreich
Augusta Jay
Mason Khosla
Pearson Lambeth
Hunter Lambeth
Luca Leonardo
Cole Lieberthal
Ryan McGill
Sylvie McGoldrick
Thomas Montgomery
Jake Moore
Colin Morrell
Benjamin Nichols
Khalid Ousman
Christopher Park
Luke Roehl
Ella Schneider
Tucker Shumack
Ania Soto
Madeline Wills
Sophomores:
Colin Adams
Meg Adams
Conall Amunson
Gigi Barrett
Sam Brock
Alec Burkhalter
Julia Christacos
Tawon Figaro
Maddie Foster
Naheema Goin
Aidan Hallett
Bishop Hart
Madison Hughes
Chaelynn Hwang
Ramtulai Jalloh
Ally Kleeblatt
Karen Lamson
Greer Mallos
Maegan McCann
Chase Reischauer
John Ristau
Ali Rouse
Jack Rutter
Josh Salmone
Tatum Spencer
Evelyn Stackhouse
Audrey Strauss
Hayden Wagner
Cyrus Waters
Juniors:
Elisabeth Carroll
RJ Davis
Farrah DeVaughn
Loui Goin
Sophie Harding
Finley Knutson
James London
Hayley Lookadoo
Nicholas Lowe
Niels Merino
Morgan Nielsen
Bart O'Connor
Kaz Penkiunas
Carter Stimson
Anna Strauss
Patrick Thomas
Seniors:
Jonah Adams
Andrew Bremner
Colin Cross
Bradley Cruthirds
Armer Harrison
Claire Helmreich
Marcus King
Lizzy Moorman
Lauren Scott
Grace Sherner
Chris Shorter
Mark Turner
Jeremy Young
ARIYA HARRINGTON '26
MARCUS KING '24
SENIOR ATHLETES PLAYING IN COLLEGE
Elias Androus Brazil Soccer
James Blackman
George Mason University Wrestling
Kyan Bowman Shaw University Basketball
Colin Cross University of Pennsylvania Sprint Football
Bradley Cruthirds Davidson College Track & Field
Noah Finley Spain Soccer
Ellie Foresman Mercer University Lacrosse
Jacob Foti
Christopher Newport University Golf
Bryce Gunn
Boston University Lacrosse
Armer Harrison Christopher Newport University Lacrosse
Colton Jensen New York University Soccer
Marcus King Johns Hopkins University Cross Country
Trey Knott Juniors Ice Hockey
Matthew Leonoardo Union College Baseball
Mason Mantey Cornell University Lacrosse
Oliver Miller Case Western Reserve University Baseball
Abby Musser University of Virginia Lacrosse
Blake Neal Gettysburg College Basketball
Jonathan O'Bryant-Graves
Savannah College of Arts and Design Lacrosse
Luke Pascal Yale University Lacrosse
Matty Patrone University of Lynchburg Lacrosse
Madison Sandy Howard University Lacrosse
Kate Snyder University of Chicago Lacrosse
Mason Tull Long Island University Lacrosse
Alex Washington
Sewanee: The University of the South Lacrosse
THE CLASS OF 2024 “LIFERS”
Thirty-seven members of the Class of 2024 entered St. Stephen's and St. Agnes in junior kindergarten, kindergarten, or first grade.
JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN:
James Brabham
SaraClaire Chiaramonte
Colton Jensen
Christian Kappel
Maxime Lyubinsky
Jack Murphy
Theo Weiman
KINDERGARTEN:
Ella Barker
Davis Bauer
James Blackman
Tess Bradley
Garrett Butler
Will Carnell
Olivia Clark
Colin Cross
AJ Degler
Kalli Dinos
Annette Dunn
Isaiah Fahden
Abby Felsenthal
Bryce Gunn
Armer Harrison
Claire Helmreich
Danielle Hines
Sarah Kotulan
Brooke Lai
Mason Mantey
Elona Michael
Louis Molife
Abby Musser
Charlotte Nichols
David Rhind-Tutt
Madison Sandy
Lauren Scott
Matthew Smith
Mark Turner
FIRST GRADE:
Augusta Adams
400 Fontaine Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22302
If the addressee no longer lives at this address, please contact the school: 703-212-2720 or atoman@sssas.org
