A Tribute to the Seniors: CdeP 2018

A Tribute to the Seniors

2018

listen: “isn’t this a beautiful way if day must become night?” everything up until now is horse hair and pepper trees, the creases you made in book covers and dust in your teeth. four years pinned in the crook of your elbow as you turn to watch the faces of the people who have touched your life with calloused hands, with cracked leather reins and blue book pages, made every bruise a tribute to pink mountains, a testament to wet asphalt and swollen blue sky. and as this place sinks into the folds of white dresses and slopes of silk ties, remember what it gave you. no more orange peels or ojai blossoms, the song of avocado orchards in late autumn. no more hiking trails in early morning as the sky rinses out its stars and the grapefruit clouds hug the curves of mountains. no more wide grins spread over bowls of cereal, late nights with popcorn and martinelli’s as the world falls like sparkler ashes into your palms. no more blue moon kombucha or the rush of cars through the window of a coffee shop. instead: the memories of gentle hands on warm cookies, saturday sun on honey limbs, the green navajos stretched over broad backs of mustangs. our hearts rolling, rolling rippling towards the unlit dawns, the golden home we leave behind. casa de piedra.

Written and read by Griffin Daniel Somaratne and Lingyu “Mary” Yan.

Casa de Piedra 2018 A Tribute to the Seniors

Philosophy

Mission

The philosophy of The Thacher School is rooted in the wisdom and work of its founder, Sherman Day Thacher, who embraced the extraordinary natural venue of his school and sought above all else to train his students “in the art of living for their own greatest good and for the good of their fellow citizens.” He believed the most worthwhile education combined a vigorous academic life with rugged outdoor activities that engendered self-reliance, concern for others, and fidelity to four principles:

Thacher trains young men and women in the art of living for their own greatest good and for the greatest good of their fellow citizens in a diverse and changing world. To that end, the School augments its highly challenging academic program with profound lessons learned from the care of a horse, regular chores around the School, teamwork on playing fields, outstanding instruction in the arts, the give and take of everyday life with schoolmates and teachers, and adventures shared in the wilderness. The aim is to inspire and encourage hard work, integrity, self-reliance, a lifelong love of learning and truth, self-knowledge, and a deep concern for the world in which we live.

HONOR FAIRNESS KINDNESS TRUTH

Senior Tributes 2018 Anybody familiar with a Thacher graduation knows that at this ceremony, the seniors are called one by one to the podium, where a member of the faculty reads a short paragraph that we call a “senior tribute.” These comments are not intended to be full or exhaustive assessments of their subjects. They are not a complete recapitulation of every accomplishment nor a catalog of every virtue. Indeed, they are not balanced assessments of strengths and weaknesses.

Rather, these comments are insights into what we think are their finest qualities—what we find when we see and experience their best selves. They name the virtues that we think distinguish each senior and that will help him or her make a mark on this world and in human relationships. These earned accolades help reflect light on these adolescent redwood saplings that will grow into tall and stately trees: your sons and daughters who are about to become members of this ancient grove that dates back to 1889—the oldest and one of the finest in the West.

Nicholas Satoru Amano

Shan Nicole Bassolino

No one has ever made Robotics Club announcements quite so popular as Nick. Delivered with a rock star’s stage presence, his brief declarations elicit a roar at every Friday Assembly. This is, no doubt, due both to Nick’s incredible passion for technology and to the genuine love that he so deservedly earns from his peers. This adoration is also revealed in Lower School, where his charges appreciate his kind and thoughtful care. A resourceful problem-solver, Nick has distinguished himself by helping to push Thacher’s computer science curriculum further than ever before. And his independent study projects highlight his focus and creativity. For the first, Nick built an augmented-reality sandbox, an innovative tool that utilizes a projected contour map to model water flow and patterns of erosion. This spring, he created a multitude of ceramics pieces using three different, distinctive Japanese techniques. Nick’s love of teamwork and determination to excel were also key to the most successful cross country team in the School’s history, a team which he co-captained, as well as to our soccer team, where he anchored the defense. Like any real rock star, Nick performs with gusto and makes it look easy.

Coming from Shanghai, China, by way of Chennai, India, New York, and Chicago, Nicole is wise beyond her years.

She has been a genuine scholar, blending her dedicated work ethic with a true seriousness of purpose. And as a member of this community, she has worked hard to make her mark: contributing measured and thoughtful leadership on the Judicial Council, mentoring peers on the Hill, and using an independent project opportunity to study our library and find ways to make it a more inviting and usable space. Nicole’s most remarkable role, though, was this year, at the helm of the student body. Elected on a platform of “small, achievable improvements,” Nicole’s impact went far beyond the small (although the small are not to be underestimated—as any fan of our new big dining hall bowls can attest!). Vital to the structure that knits this school together, Nicole willed this year to be something incredible, and her success is a testament to both her moral leadership and her deep compassion for every member of our community. Perhaps, then, Nicole’s biggest “small improvement” is the high standard of excellence she has set for future Thacher leaders. Not so “small,” after all!

Carnegie Mellon University

Northwestern University

Shalan Mimi Billault-Lee

Thomas Merlin Boneysteele

Whether she’s commanding the stage as she belts out a jazz tune or croons an original, dressed in high thrift-store fashion or cozy in leopard pajamas, Shalan is always herself and always in the moment. A singular blend of wisdom and whimsy, she has brought style, sophistication, and an artist’s eye to every endeavor. A talented and ambitious scholar, Shalan’s thirst for knowledge and visible love of the intellectual world make her a force to be reckoned with, and yet she balances her skill with humble curiosity and a deep dedication to self-improvement. New to the Horse Program when she arrived at Thacher, Shalan worked her way up to Blue Team captain, serving as a mentor and a leader for freshmen. A nimble collaborator and bona fide talent, no coffee house would have been the same without her and her songs—their lyrics as simultaneously poetic and real as she is. A true citizen of the world, Shalan’s many homes have helped to nurture her identity, spirit, and love of adventure. From rural France to the Mission District, SYA Beijing to Ojai, we couldn’t be more grateful to call her one of ours.

Since his arrival, Thomas has shared his singular and unmistakable wit and British sensibility with adults and students alike. He has also earned the respect of his peers as a reliable, “all-in” teammate. Witness his meteoric success on the cross country team, where he improved his time by a full minute in the midst of the CIF post-season, or his stalwart work between the pipes on the lacrosse field, where he evolved into a key member of the squad and served as a co-captain this year. Thomas’s love of the group endeavor manifests itself in the classroom as well. In his time at Thacher, he has worked hard to be introspective about himself as a learner. This clear-eyed approach has allowed Thomas to find the academic areas in which he thrives, like history and English, where his teachers laud his ability to express his original thoughts clearly and to read literature with a “roving, creative mind.” A champion of the EAC Chicken Program and an able outdoorsman and Eagle Scout, Thomas has shared his wide-ranging talents with us. We wish him well as he heads across the pond to St. Andrews—and his family roots—in Scotland.

Brown University

University of St. Andrews

Connor Wheaton Callahan

Elias Schwab Ceseña

Will the next major league baseball general manager also be an avid tennis player who grew up on a small cheese farm in Northern California? If Connor Callahan has anything to say about it, the answer will be yes! To him, it just makes sense: the SF Giants could always use a “jack of all trades” like Connor in their front office! Let’s do the calculations: an enthusiastic and efficient coder who loves to tinker with the “athletic” programming of his robot?

Check. A talented statistician who blended his love of numbers and sports to build a database of stats for his basketball team this winter? Check. A fierce competitor known for both hustle and leadership on the basketball and tennis courts? Check. Sounds like the full package to us. We’d hire him in an instant! But just in case the Giants aren’t fully convinced yet: Connor also learned a new coding language this year just so that he could improve his fantasy baseball team. If that’s not commitment, we don’t know what is. What we do know is that from any angle, the future is bright for Connor (so it’s a good thing he’s got those trademark shades!).

At Thacher, Elias has experienced tremendous growth.

One would hope so, considering that he arrived at Thacher as a 93-pound freshman. (He is now, as you may have noticed, rather larger than that.) But of course, Elias’s growth has not been merely physical. Effort, attention, discipline, and self-advocacy have helped him to fulfill his potential as a student. And as a passionate, dedicated tri-varsity athlete, he earned our applause as the living embodiment of hustle. By the third inning of any game, Elias’s baseball jersey is always covered in dirt from a headfirst slide into second base. And we won’t soon forget that moment late in the fourth quarter of the Cate football game when he jumped up through two defenders to snag a TD pass, giving Thacher the lead. Elias has used his athletic prowess to hone his leadership skills. Co-captain of two varsity teams and prefect for the sophomore boys in Los Padres, he commands respect, even in the most difficult of situations. Life is always a process, with its ups and downs, but Elias has smoothed the road with a bounce in his step, a smile on his face, and a quick joke always at the ready.

Santa Clara University

Denison University

Edison Gregory Chadwick

Kibibi Ife Asantwea Kwakye Davis

Edison is our own Indiana Jones. An adventurer at heart, he combines a deeply intellectual side with a curiosity about the world that leads him to any number of discoveries. His explorations have led him to build a website to classify fossils and their locations in California, to map out Thacher’s trail system and its history, and to captain EDTs through the Sespe Narrows. As a scholar, he excelled in every area of our curriculum. One teacher wrote, “I don’t think there are enough superlatives to describe this young scholar. He leaves no stone unturned.” Another commented, “Edison acts as the glue for the group by listening respectfully, and helping to voice the ideas of people who might have been too quiet to assert their opinions.” This spring, he blazed a trail to the Penn Relays, leading the team to an eighth-place finish in the nation in the Distance Medley. He works hard and digs deep, driven by an unmatched innate curiosity and a deep conviction in the power of exploring ideas and sharing them with a greater audience.

Anyone who has spent significant time with Kibibi knows what we mean when we say that she has “the look.” It is the moment when Kibibi sizes you up, head to toe, and steps back to determine just whose team you are on. Praised by teachers for her strong analytic mind, potent writing, and nuanced understanding of the French language, she has grown tremendously as a scholar over four years. Her Senior Exhibition about gentrification in urban America raised the question “Who belongs in a city?” and was both deeply personal and thoughtfully researched. Kibibi exudes resolve and power on any stage, whether as a part of the Chamber Ensemble, the dance program, or the lacrosse and soccer teams. As a leader of the Black Student Union and dorm prefect on the Hill, Kibibi’s discerning presence and willingness to tackle difficult topics win the day. So now it’s our turn, Kibibi, to stop and size things up—and perhaps even offer “the look.” And we can say without hesitation that we are glad that you have been on our team for these past four years.

University of California, Berkeley

Skidmore College

Olivia Huntington de Polo

Jeffrey Ding

Don’t let the sunny disposition fool you. Many teams and tennis foes have found themselves on the wrong side of this fierce competitor, at the mercy of her powerful lefthanded tennis serve or lacrosse bounce shot, or her fleet feet on the soccer field. A levelheaded, fearless competitor, Olivia is recognized by coaches and teammates alike for her gutsy play. In the academic realm, she is known for her eagerness to learn and her willingness to go the extra mile.

The key to this young woman’s success is her complete commitment to seeing things through, whether it is in taking that last photo for El Archivero, where she is editorin-chief, or spearheading student participation in the March for Our Lives as a head of the Human Rights Club.

And of course, she has anchored the String Ensemble on the violin for four years. With an unwavering ability to weather any storm, Olivia’s behind-the-scenes leadership in each of these arenas has significantly impacted our community. We will miss her big heart and broad smile but take solace in knowing that she will continue to make a lasting impression on each community she inhabits.

For Jeffrey, the joy is in the doing, in the trying something new, in the learning. His diverse interests lead him to myriad intellectual, artistic, and athletic endeavors, all of which he pursues with uncommon focus and vigor.

Jeffrey’s obvious pleasure in discovery and his eagerness to push his learning beyond the confines of the classroom showcase the uniqueness of his academic approach. Engaging in astronomical research, reconfiguring our library, creating a website to educate the public about cyber security, developing a web-based transcript p ­ rototype—Jeffrey’s intellectual explorations have made real differences both within the Thacher gates and beyond. From star turns in both Oklahoma! and The Music Man to his leadership driving our varsity tennis team, Jeffrey’s prodigious talents seemingly know no bounds. Playing a musical instrument is one thing; being a concert-level pianist is quite another. And yet, despite the high level of excellence that Jeffrey attains, he is one of the most approachable of seniors, doting on his freshman prefectees and lending them a hand, no matter how big or small the issue. Clearly generous of spirit, this scholar, musician, thespian, athlete, cook, calligrapher, designer, and coder has, without question, made a flourishingly distinctive mark.

University of California, Davis

Harvard University

Olivia Phoebe Driscoll

Olivia Fiona Edmondson

If life is a series of puzzles, then Olivia is the puzzle master. Whether this proclivity is applied to computer code, biological systems, analytical essays, artistic projects, robots, rock climbing moves, or lacrosse players on the field, the result is always the same. Olivia sees patterns that most people miss. The more complex the conundrum, the more drive she has to arrange the pieces so that the seams dissolve to produce an elegant whole. An all-star in the classroom, she is noted for her problem-solving skills, deep focus, and intense creativity. In the art studio and robotics lab, she adds in technical skills, creating work that is both startling and provocative. In art this year, she chose to focus on “Concealment,” both physical and emotional, and she used laser-cutting processes to create three-dimensional structures in her independent work.

Outside of the classroom Olivia is no less spectacular, demonstrating leadership, bravery, and vision as a fouryear varsity starter and goalie, and this year co-captain of the lacrosse team. She’s also a rock climber, B-camper, and member of the Silver Dollar Club. Olivia’s natural curiosity, honesty, and unfettered approach to life are key elements of her success.

Whether she’s padded down in goalie gear or suited up as the Thacher Toad, Olivia is full of surprises. It’s as if she lives by Oscar Wilde’s famous words, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” A self-proclaimed “open book” with social acumen and gritty determination, she’s not afraid to speak her mind, to stand up for her beliefs, or to encourage others to do the same. Whether it’s working on the HR&S staff, mentoring juniors on the Hill, or literally putting herself in the line of fire as goalie for the girls’ JV lacrosse team, Olivia brings confidence and a unique brand of realism to every task. Armed with a ready smile, perpetual positivity, and the comedic timing and delivery of a pro, Olivia has a kind, encouraging, or wonderfully irreverent word for anyone fortunate enough to be in her sphere. A powerhouse English student with unflagging energy and a sterling work ethic, Olivia pairs insatiable curiosity with a grounded awareness of how she learns best. In these three short years, Olivia, you’ve won our hearts with warmth and wit.

University of California, Los Angeles

Tulane University

Aeddon Rhys Edwards

Nicholas Montgomery Edwards

Like a quality full-suspension mountain bike, Aeddon is built to smoothly roll over rugged terrain—confident, resourceful, and technically proficient. During his Thacher career, he has found plenty of outdoor adventure, participating in two grueling 100-mile mountain bike EDTs as well as numerous climbing escapades. His concern for others, always appreciated by fellow campers and teammates, was on full display this winter when he created a fire-relief community service program that provided over a hundred hours of service to fire victims.

Aeddon’s relaxed and unassuming nature, combined with the fact that some of his areas of deepest interest and expertise are not mainstream at Thacher (like completing a 540 spin on a BMX bike or knowing everything there is to know about used BMWs) can sometimes mask the depth of his curiosity. But if you were in attendance for his Senior Exhibition talk on the monetization of the internet you know that Aeddon has an intellectual capacity in keeping with his towering frame. Optimistic and kind, Aeddon has enriched our community, and we are sure he will do the same wherever his wheels take him in the future.

In a galaxy far, far away there awaits something to be discovered. Not only will Nick probably discover that “something,” he might also help design the rocket to get us there. Nick has taken full advantage of living out his childhood passions here at Thacher. The boy who dressed up as Buzz Lightyear three times in a row for Halloween, Nick grew up to be the co-author of a professional research paper on astronomy while still in high school. In the moments between designing our future AI overlords, Nick excelled in rock climbing and AP Latin; he captained the varsity basketball team, and he always found time for his sophomore charges in Los Padres, or for his younger sister. Although Nick’s gaze might turn to the stars, he’s completely grounded on Thacher soil. Nick is known for his sense of humor and his easy-going nature—he’s been a wonderful mentor and a trusted friend to many in our community. The path ahead for Nick is as bright as any star in our galaxy—To infinity and beyond!

Santa Barbara City College

University of Wisconsin, Madison

Apple Tereza Farrelly

Sarah Ann Finch

True to herself, yet deeply connected to others, Apple brings a balanced approach to life at Thacher.

Relationships are at the root of her joy: her large and tight circle of friends, her supportive family, the Ojai community. Teachers laud her as a graceful writer and a confident, original student who brings a diligent, determined work ethic to all she does. While she excels in the academic realm, her first love is art—from drawing and painting to acoustic drums to, as her Senior Exhibition attested, film. With a discerning eye and abiding concern for others, Apple sees beyond the surface of things, a trait that has helped bring depth to her extensive work in our Community Service program—both as a leader and dedicated volunteer. Similarly, she has used her role as co-head of the Community Service Club to extend a helping hand to far-off hurricane victims and local food drives alike. With a calm and kind demeanor, Apple takes on challenges with a big heart. As the last scene of Apple’s own high school movie draws to a close, we’re already eagerly anticipating the sequel.

Sarah’s authenticity, her easy laugh, and her readiness to roll up her sleeves and pitch in, recall the best of women in the old West: hardy, spirited, and ready to face whatever may come their way. So, while Sarah is a natural introvert—which, by the way, suits her fine—her career at Thacher has reached legendary status in many areas. She’s an incredibly accomplished horsewoman, teaming with Lucky and leading her beloved Orange Team to back-toback gymkhana victories. She is a fearless and competitive soccer goalie, named this season’s “Goalie of the Year” in our league. She is the wise sage sitting in the classroom listening intently before getting that gleam in her eye as she offers a cogent point. She is a beacon of integrity and positivity as a prefect for sophomore girls. Sarah’s strengths are in her clarity of purpose, her profound humility, and her openness to all people and all situations. Eminently trustworthy, uncommonly responsible, extremely hardworking, and incredibly fun and funny, Sarah is someone you want on your team. She’s got a way of making everyone around her just a bit better. In short, Sarah Finch is a real keeper.

Wesleyan University

University of California, Davis

Peyton Lewis FitzHugh

Jane Lucretia Gamble

Assembly, March 2018. The Chamber Singers move to the front of the Amphitheater. Suddenly, Peyton steps forward—confident, oozing flair and style—and belts out the first verse of the Eurythmics’ Sweet Dreams.

Her voice is electric, hypnotic, and proud, but what also stands out about this moment is that it is both so Peyton and also somehow unexpected. For while we all truly appreciate and admire Peyton’s artistic talent, intellect, and creativity, she tends to carry herself in a humble, beautifully understated way. The fact is, a lot of Peyton’s magic happens behind the scenes: an amazing painting she did in her free time simply because she was inspired, a nuanced paper for Art History, a well-planned munch-out for her small crew of freshman prefectees. In an incredibly refreshing way, Peyton has no agenda; she simply follows her curiosity and her heart, and because of that you know that her participation in everything—from the EAC to basketball, lacrosse to the arts—is authentic. Peyton, your sincere engagement and genuine warmth have made you an invaluable leader in our community. As you continue on your forward path, we wish you an unhurried journey and, of course, the sweetest dreams.

Coming to us from San Francisco, this independent and savvy urbanite has been a memorable addition to our community over the last four years. Whether Jane is painting a canvas or a classmate’s face before a big production, throwing a bowl, pouring coffee, or shooting Polaroids to capture the essence of Ojai, this dynamo has been committed to the art program—and her coffee beans—since day one. Throughout her time at Thacher, Jane brought her optimistic attitude and trademark equanimity to all her endeavors, including co-heading the Thacher Pack & Spur Club, leading discussions in the HR&S program, and working as a prefect on the Hill. Her Senior Exhibition examining Suicide Contagion amongst teenage youth is an example of Jane’s compassion for others and her willingness to face uncomfortable realities head-on.

On the lighter side, we’ve all appreciated Jane’s colorful commentary during Big Gymkhanas, seeing her artwork displayed on the walls of the Commons, and, of course, delighting in her humor and cold-pressed coffee. Jane, you have given us much to savor.

Washington and Lee University

Savannah College of Art and Design

Christopher William Gilbert

Emma Theresa Gilmore

Chris isn’t afraid to go deep. In three short years, Chris has played more roles than most here at Thacher—from intimidating defender in lacrosse to the eerie Judd Fry in Oklahoma! to Carlos in Legally Blonde!; from varsity basketball manager to Upper School prefect; from EDT stalwart to strong scholar—but along the way, the same fundamental characteristics have carried through them all. Yes, Chris’s powerful intellect has allowed him to reach high levels of scholarship in academics, but it’s also served him well in breaking down basketball film to help the team conquer the next opponent. His innate empathy has of course made him a trusted friend and confidant to his prefectees in Upper School, but it’s also allowed him to make more powerful connections—both with his classmates and with the material—in class discussions. His toughness and persistence have served him well on the lacrosse field, but they’ve also helped him to take on more than his share of the load while camping in the backcountry. But above all, his greatest strength is that no matter where he is or what he’s doing, Chris is “all-in.” We’re lucky to have had him “all-in” on all things Thacher.

Were we to draw back the curtain that conceals the inner-workings of the Thacher community and expose the wizard behind the scenes, we would certainly find Emma, headset on, changing cues and directing her peers in making the lights dance. Not one to seek the spotlight herself, Emma instead excels at supporting her peers, creating connections, and facilitating others’ successes.

Her particular brand of wizardry stems from behindthe-scenes work—as a prefect on the Hill, head tech, and co-director of this year’s uproariously funny Spring Sing.

Her contributions have extended into the equine world as well, where her calm demeanor and wry sense of humor have made her a favorite among horses and English teammates alike. But when Emma takes the stage herself she orchestrates that moment too, showcasing her depth of insight and clarity of thought. In her Senior Exhibition, for example, she cast herself in and then convincingly played the part of the confident and capable presenter.

Wardrobe? Spot-on. Script? Engaging and thought-­ provoking. Delivery? Clear and convincing. It’s time for this backstage girl to step forward and take a bow.

University of Michigan

Colby College

Helena Teresa Girardoni

Paiton Toshiko Kanda Gleeson

Helena relishes in the creative process—intellectually, artistically, and kinesthetically. “What can I make?” It’s a question that has always come naturally to Helena, and we have seen the amazing results of her curious mind, attention to detail, and steady focus: a remarkably beautiful dining room table built in woodworking, a pair of laminated all-mountain skis, an impressive Independent in shoe design. Just as commendable is what Helena has crafted as head prefect on the Hill and head tech, where she has supported and encouraged others in their work to master their own art. Equally talented and dedicated academically, Helena once commented about a class, “This experience made me realize that the world is not divided; everything is integrated”—a theory certainly demonstrated by her penchant for math and science and her accomplishments as a pianist and tri-linguist.

Yes, Helena truly defies the conventional mold, and in doing so brings new perspective and beauty to the world around her through her heart, head, and hands. “What can I make?” Anything you imagine, Helena; you build it, and we will come.

“I would like to know,” Paiton says repeatedly in a poignant video she made about Japanese internment camps that was inspired by her grandparents. This phrase represents so much of who Paiton is: a curious and ambitious scholar and risk taker; an accomplished artist, athlete, and horsewoman; and, in her heart, a devoted grandchild, daughter, sister, and friend. Paiton grew up understanding the value of diverse perspectives and experiences; for her, there are no sidelines. Life is meant to be lived fully. (So fully, in fact, that she barely had a free period for the past two years!)

The blend of her accomplishments, from being recognized as an incredibly committed and conscientious student to leading the freshmen in Casa and on the Green Team to nailing the role of the ridiculous Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn in The Music Man, is a testament to Paiton’s versatility, talent, and work ethic. We all have loved watching her perform—for the community, for herself, and for three generations of Kanda-Gleesons cheering her on from the bleachers, the gymkhana stands, and the front row seats of the Milligan Center. Paiton, you live a life without limits; we can’t wait to see what’s next.

Wesleyan University

Stanford University

Zanna Juliet Gulick-Stutz

John Henry Hancock

Google words like “compassion, dynamism, competitiveness, scholarship,” and you might end up in an echo chamber that feels a lot like Zanna. Pop-ups would appear, showing a woman hanging off the side of her horse as she grabs the silver dollar. Adjacent, a smiling prefect in the warm glow of the dorm, tutoring sophomore girls in math or listening to their problems. Nearby, an unflappable B-camper possessing both judgment and skill. A final image: an academic powerhouse who has mastered our curriculum with sophistication and intellectual zeal. Then, videos would play scenes of Zanna cheering for teammates on the soccer and gymkhana fields. Ads would beckon us to summit our own tough rock climbs or bring gritty competitiveness to the soccer pitch. You could check the multiple screens of her accomplishments, but you would need to know the real Zanna to grasp the depth of that breadth of achievement, to hear her lead a class or receive her counsel, as tutor or prefect, especially when you needed it most. But that Zanna is nearly gone, and we are left with her page, with its thousands of likes, innumerable followers, and infinite thumbs up! It will have to do.

Start with the Chaco sandals and Hawaiian shirts, two staples of his wardrobe. Henry’s unmistakable style speaks to his authenticity—his ability to be himself—day in and day out. A teacher once wrote, “Henry just does. He doesn’t make a big fuss but does what needs to be done, is helpful, and loves connecting with everyone.” He has distinguished himself as a curious, committed student. In the classroom, he jumps into daily discussions and shares his considerable insight with a winning combination of confidence and humility. His teachers also note that in his writing Henry understands how to communicate clearly and effectively. His love of team is on full display when he takes to the lacrosse field, where he has been a varsity starter for the last three years. He does not shy from the spotlight, be it as an enthusiastic “freshman boy” in many Indoor Committee announcements or as the Dragon in the Spring Sing production of Shrek. We will miss this soulful and kind young man, and wish him well as he heads to the Lone Star State for college.

Dartmouth College

The University of Texas, Austin

Willa Grace Hancock

Joseph Bennett Hardwicke

Willa has two great motivators in life: her love for family and friends and her belief in the value of a job well done.

As a result, she moves easily from one venue to another, finding joy in everything from pushing herself to take more intellectual risks in an analytical essay to captaining a kayaking trip to digging into a couple of pints of Ben and Jerry’s with some of her dormmates at the end of a full day.

Willa can easily read the temperature of a room—or an entire community, for that matter—and this nuanced skill has served her well as facilitator for HR&S, Admission Office tour guide, dedicated community service volunteer, and co-head of Indoor Committee. Indeed, those Friday Assembly announcements have shown not only Willa’s spirited sense of humor and genuine desire to add fun to everyone’s life, but also, perhaps indirectly, what Willa truly gets that many don’t: it’s all about balance. Work hard, play hard, and embrace the journey—and the good conversations—along the way. In doing so, Willa lives happily and brings warmth to all of those lucky enough to be in her sphere and feel that Willa glow.

Joe almost visibly vibrates with a restless sense of drive and determination. In fact, these two words apply to every aspect of Joe’s life. From his upbringing as a nationally ranked tennis player to his domination of strategy board games, Joe thrives on competition. This has served him incredibly well in the classroom as he has been a hurricane force through the toughest curriculum that Thacher has to offer. While Joe certainly lived up to his early promise as a math and science prodigy, he has proven himself to be a voracious academic omnivore. It was no surprise that Mr. Carney’s famous Constitution test was renamed, “The Hardwicke” after he posted a perfect score last year.

After a fine winter on the soccer pitch, Joe’s competitive drive and hunger for new challenges led him to trade his accomplished tennis racket for a lacrosse stick. While this new tool was unfamiliar, Joe’s energy made a big impact on the team. Joe’s natural charisma and fun-loving spirit made him a trusted mentor to the boys of Lower School this year. They, like the rest of us, will miss this extraordinary young man.

University of Virginia

Dartmouth College

Elizabeth Frances Hatton

Emily Hidalgo

“How does she do it?!” we’ve asked ourselves about Libby on more than one occasion over the last few years. “Do what,” you ask? How about star in the winter musical, lead the varsity soccer team to the CIF playoffs, and consistently deliver wit and depth in the classroom—all at the same time. This is, in fact, simply what Libby does; not content to wear just one hat (or even two), she wants to wear all of the hats—all the time. It seems to us that for Libby, there really is just no other way to move through the world. Her many talents—and her willingness to share them with others, selflessly, time and time again—are at the heart of what makes our community go. In any setting where we might find her—whether it be on the fields (both soccer and gymkhana!), in the dorm, on the stage, or in the classroom—we can count on also finding the magical combination of authentic joy and seriousness of purpose that are Libby’s trademarks. Libby, we know it’s time for you to move on to a new stage . . . but before you go, perhaps one last autograph?

With strong, proud family roots in Atotonilco el Grande, appropriately in the Mexican state of Hidalgo, Emily’s face lights up when describing her cultural background.

Her grandfather still owns a little rancho and works the land, making her choice of Thacher and Ojai easy for him. “Mija puedes montar los caballos,” he told her with a smile, “Darling, you can ride horses!” His stamp of approval meant a lot, and Emily did more than just ride—she earned the rank of Top Horseman. Emily is disciplined, determined, and focused in everything she does.

Whether it’s in her academic work, guiding freshmen and horses at the barns, or providing leadership in UCT and Latinos Unidos, Emily thinks deeply about her place in the world and the interconnectedness of all community members. She quietly, but resolutely, enriches the School with her inclusive sense of respect. Through her Senior Exhibition, Emily taught us about folklórico (a collective term for Latin American dance), interweaving two worlds—the academic and the deeply personal. While some struggle to see the underlying spirit of our everyday lives, Emily inhabits this realm gracefully and naturally, and we have all benefited when she’s shared her multiple points of view.

Northwestern University

Colorado College

Ruoyi “Zoe” Huang

Thomas Baskerville Lewis Hudson

Back in April, after observing Zoe walking across campus in sweatpants, one teacher remarked, “It must really be Senior Spring.” This is because Zoe typically dresses for each day with a fully fashion forward approach, bringing to her outfits a highly developed aesthetic that is uniquely her own. Her keen artist’s eye manifests itself in her work as editor-in-chief of El Archivero, where she has applied her sensibilities to layout and design, as well in her independent study, where she blended concepts of vinyl with her own photographic images to create a series of unique album covers. In the academic realm, Zoe is a dynamo, and her academic talent and love of art combined in her Senior Exhibition, a fascinating look at how mass-­marketing has changed fashion as an art form. Zoe tackles challenges with vision and problem-solving skills, and a bedrock certainty that she will find a solution: just look at the Thacher Asian Student Society, an affinity group she founded for students to find mentorship and comfort as they transition into Thacher life. Wise beyond her years, kind, and fun to be around, Zoe has left her stylish mark on Thacher.

We all know when Thomas is excited about something.

The passion and energy within grow too large and powerful for his body to contain, and as a result, Thomas stands taller, walks lighter, gesticulates more fervently, and smiles more broadly. Over the past four years, we’ve been incredibly lucky to witness firsthand innumerable moments when Thomas’s genuine excitement draws us in. We’ve listened to Assembly announcements about trail work, shooting, beekeeping, and mountain biking presented with a fervent enthusiasm. We’ve watched as Thomas has mentored fellow students in our camping and climbing program. We’ve benefited from his generosity and thoughtfulness toward other students in our classrooms. And we’ve sat in awe as he warned us of the inherent dangers of skiing and mountaineering among remote snow-covered peaks before instructing us in careful detail how best to avoid those dangers. So, as we bid Thomas a fond farewell, we are confident that he’ll have no trouble finding new adventures to keep him excited; we just hope he’ll return to campus to share his boundless enthusiasm with us once in a while.

University of Southern California

University of Colorado at Boulder

Ethan Rimes Kallett

Finnegan Peter Keilty

Incredibly earnest, Ethan brings 100 percent to every endeavor he takes on—and then some. His teachers rave about his brilliance in the classroom, whether he is leading a class through insightful questions or demonstrating complex analysis in a paper. Ethan’s mind seems to have no boundaries, as he brings an insatiable curiosity to all of his subjects. Ethan also dedicates himself wholeheartedly to the world around him and has an empathy for others that is second to none. Serving as a freshman prefect has given Ethan a vehicle to truly impact another generation of Thacher students, and we thank him for role-modeling time and again Thacher’s pillar of Kindness. This admirable combination of a voracious appetite for learning and genuine care for others was truly on display when he gave his Senior Exhibition, a powerful presentation on the effect of colonization of the Americas. As Ethan moves far beyond our front gates, he leaves us with no doubt that he will make his mark on the world and leave all around him better off for it.

The essential requirements for two of Finn’s primary leadership positions—Upper School head prefect and head of the EAC’s Hog Program—are largely the same: keep everyone fed, and make sure that nobody gets eaten by a bear. I think we’re all grateful that Finn had more success in Upper School than he did with TuPork and Piggie Smalls. And as far as Upper School is concerned, the residents of those hallowed halls have never eaten so well: Finn, for those who don’t know, is an accomplished chef. But the key, for Finn, isn’t in the cooking. It’s in the sharing. In the classroom, he’s known for his great ideas, yes, but he’s defined by his generosity. And as a participant in our rock climbing program, Finn received the Mentor Climber Award this year for the care he showed toward less experienced students. His desire to teach and create is in stark relief in our ceramics program as well, where he served as a TA this year. Finn, we’ll miss you dearly, and we can’t wait to break bread with you again here at Thacher—preferably your bread, and hopefully sooner rather than later.

University of Pennsylvania

Carleton College

Anne Marie Wanjiru Langan

Yousef Lawrence

We feel so lucky to have had Annie as a part of our community for the past four years. She is determined, committed, and extremely serious about her endeavors and friends.

She engages with the community at every turn, whether as a part of the pit band for a musical playing her beloved trombone, editing the sports page for The Notes, zipping down the lacrosse field, or speaking up with verve in a classroom discussion. Annie grew up in a multicultural household and diverse hometown, and her intuitive appreciation for multiple perspectives enriches everything she touches. She is deeply invested in exploring issues of race and socioeconomic inequalities through her role as a co-head of United Cultures of Thacher (UCT).

Annie broadened her perspective outside of Thacher by travelling to China, Senegal, and to the Maine coast for a semester at Chewonki. Venturing off campus allowed her to develop a deep regard not only for humans but also for the earth and its stewardship. By sharing her full, authentic self and inviting others to do the same, Annie has been a leader in our pursuit of the greatest good.

Blessed with an agile and creative mind, Yousef showed us what he is made of when he delivered his fascinating talk on Black Swans, supported by the tiniest notecard in Senior Exhibition history and two small handwritten graphs—no PowerPoint in sight! Cerebral and calm, Yousef has been described as “the quiet wonder,” who often comes up with just the right insight to get the class moving on an interesting idea. Routinely pushing beyond our curriculum, Yousef has written Python code to reduce photometric data and model stellar evolution in the NGC188 star cluster; he has used Java to achieve autonomous robot control; he has designed and constructed signal-conditioning electrical circuit boards to use in satellites; he has wowed an appreciative audience with Herculean piano renditions of Chopin and Rachmaninoff; he has created an online reservation app for the new EAC electric bike program. Yousef’s interests—the piano, rock climbing, scuba diving, existentialist literature, Roman history, the Middle Ages, Romantic Era poetry, machine learning, and the aerospace industry, to name a few—are evidence of his roving curiosity and intense focus. We are going to greatly miss this jazz piano riffing, computer coding intellectual.

Amherst College

University of Chicago

Ricardo Carlos López

Oscar Daniel Luna

Rico once wrote, “Often times I am preoccupied with romantic hopes of writing a better world to help reverse the tides of insecurities and hate. I have heroes whose names on the front cover of novels and essays still inspire daydreams at the most inopportune moments. But most days, I question which path best leads to character, and I hope I am paving my way.” By virtue of his internal motivation, his extensive talent, and his deep idealism, Rico often finds himself cast in the very role he dreams about— the hero on the front cover of his novels: for the younger runners looking to Rico for leadership on Thacher’s cross country team, which finished second in the state; or the spellbound audience listening to a reading of the Mulligans’ biographical tribute or the incisive satire Rico publishes in the Thacher Notes; the heroic head prefect who leads the young men in Los Padres by embodying Thacher’s Honor Code. Rico is, at his essence, a scholar, an athlete, an artist, and a deeply self-reflective and moral citizen of the human race. Writing a better world? Paving his way to character? We all agree Rico is well on his way.

The daily journey from Oscar’s home in Santa Paula to Thacher is 17.8 miles each way. It is a windy trip, with many curves and a massive grade to creep down to reach the Ojai Valley floor. Oscar has made this drive every day for four years, early in the morning to muck a stall and late at night after a munch-out or a game. Through it all, we have watched Oscar grow into a thoughtful scholar ready to wrestle with a complex English text or seek the satisfying conclusion of a challenging calculus or statistics problem. Since day one he has shined on the soccer field, where his passion for the game and love of competition earned him many accolades. His ability to score with pressure from the top of the box buoyed the Toads in many competitions. And this spring, Oscar shared his scoring talents on the lacrosse field, where he starred on the attack. Just as he did time and time again during that twice-daily drive, Oscar has navigated the twists and turns of high school with his completely unflappable, totally unshakable, can-do spirit—a spirit we have appreciated greatly and will miss dearly.

Stanford University

University of California, Merced

Bjorn Wester Lynge

Adam Lirio Marcelo

Perhaps he gets his hardiness from his Viking ancestry or from his relatives who braved the cold prairies of Manitoba after emigrating from Denmark. Or maybe it’s entirely home-grown, and comes from a childhood spent exploring Vashon Island, where the ocean was his backyard. Either way, these pieces of history bring us the Bjorn we know today—a quiet seeker of adventure and discovery, be it in the outdoors or the classroom. A talented writer who is particularly adept at the humanities, he brings grace and clarity to each assignment. Armed with a most curious and impressive breadth of interests, Bjorn is always eager for a thoughtful conversation with peers about hip-hop music, soccer, Tintin, politics, basketball, or the fantasy novel he is reading. A distinguished camper who has been the heart and soul of countless EDTs, Bjorn radiates a sense of fun and goodness. With a ready laugh and steady hand, he has guided his sophomore charges through the ups and downs of life in Los Padres this year.

In many ways, Bjorn hearkens back to an earlier era, with a confident spirit and subtle helpfulness that will surely serve him well as he explores the next adventure.

For Adam, it is all about confounding expectations. Look at him, and you will see a tough, committed athlete who has used his size and physical strength to dominate his opponents. A gridiron stalwart and the anchor of the defense for the lacrosse team, he was the captain of both squads, a recognition of his powerful leadership skills.

Nowhere are those skills more necessary than as head prefect of the always inventive and challenging freshman boys of Lower School. Of course, he commanded instant respect: one stern look could readily quiet that crowd.

But lurking behind the façade (and for Adam, sternness is something he needs to fake a little) is the warmest of smiles and the most playful of spirits. As his classmates know and the freshmen in his charge found out, there is a huge reservoir of silliness and plain good fun just under the surface. Perhaps his voice suggests this other dimension. Anyone who heard his solo at the Mulligans’ Good Goodbye and watched any number of guests tear up can sense the truth: the strength of an athlete, the voice of an angel, and a compelling spirit of goodness and responsibility.

Colorado College

Yale University

Clare Marie McCormack

Reina Kuroda Nadeau

According to Urban Dictionary, the millennial version of the OED, the name Clare is defined as “a woman who has a distinctive personality, one who can laugh at anything, including herself. She is a woman who, above all else, knows the value of having fun and not taking life too seriously.” Now that is our Clare. Anywhere she goes (from the barns to the lacrosse field, the classroom to the dorm), she’s surrounded by adoring fans who hang on her every madcap word. Belting out “Fergalicious” at a coffee house or playing Lord Farquaad in Spring Sing, Clare’s certainly at home in the spotlight. In the classroom, her academic stage, she’s a deceptively effective debater, using her well-honed sense of humor to lure in her opponents, only to poke holes in their arguments and leave them wondering how it was that she bested them. With her huge heart and ready laugh, our Clare can, as our friends at Urban Dictionary state, “inexplicably make you feel really good just by being around her.” The more traditional definition of her name is “clear,” and, clearly, Clare, we’re going to miss you.

A committed author with a novel or two and a one-act play under her belt, Reina understands fully the power of words and takes the time to craft her prose (in an analytical essay, a heated debate, or her thoroughly researched and persuasively presented Senior Exhibition) in order to convince her audience of the validity of her point of view. Reina brings a particular brand of genuine curiosity and keen insight to class each day. Routinely, she wows us, leading one of her teachers to ask, “Am I sufficiently challenging her? And another to exclaim “Holy cow!” after reading her nearly perfect final exam. Yet, Reina’s Thacher success story is not limited to her work with pen and paper. She’s a tenacious and talented athlete—the consummate teammate on the tennis and soccer teams— and her attention to detail kept the Indoor Committee on task this year. A loyal friend and an outstanding student, she made her mark on this class in indelible ways. As you move on to your next chapter, set somewhere beyond the Thacher gates, don’t forget to write, Reina. The story you’re creating is one-of-a-kind.

Colgate University

Tulane University

Kelly Seohee Oh

Griffin Blake O’Neill

With a wry smile and deep, dry humor, Kelly is a trusted and sought-after friend. A distinguished scholar who is eager to explore big ideas, and an academic team player who is a kind, patient, and reliable contributor, Kelly is a well-rounded academic star. STEM might be her first love, but she brings equal dedication to the humanities and beyond. A versatile dynamo outside the classroom, Kelly’s tenacity on the court has helped bring the girls’ varsity tennis team to the CIF championships three times. She has worked behind the scenes in theater tech, designed a math and chemistry tutoring program for underclassmen, and reliably played the most challenging flute pieces with grace and ease in the Jazz Ensemble. As a leader of the Human Rights Club and United Cultures of Thacher, Kelly shared her concern for others and vision for a more equitable society. Her Senior Exhibition on the myth of the Model Minority was profoundly thorough and impactful. Perhaps what’s most remarkable is that she did it all with a subtle confidence and mature sense of self that is unmistakably Kelly Oh.

It’s easy to notice the outsides of Griffin: the energetic bounce with which he enters any room, his dynamic speed on the soccer and lacrosse fields, his eyes-wide-open approach to any new experience. Indeed, the force with which he has brightened our halls and fields and stage is no small thing ( just ask any audience member who was fortunate to watch him play first a matchmaking crab, and then a victimized gingerbread man, in two successive years of “Spring Sing”!). But those parts of Griffin which readily swim to the surface are just that—parts. What about Griffin is less visible? That he is a wildly talented artist, a thoughtful and inquisitive student, and a loyal friend who seeks to bring out the best in others just as he does in himself. Griff is a passionate learner, intent on finding the very best of himself to share with the world—and Thacher is certainly the better for it. Perhaps Griffin’s cross country coach said it best: his “unmatched dynamism” and high energy were especially important contributions to the team’s “Friday Fun Day” activities.

Indeed, with Griffin in the mix, any day is “Fun Day.”

University of California, Berkeley

Colorado College

Kathleen Joyce O’Neill

Yosephina Antonia Peters

In her time with us, Katie has sought new frontiers. She has done it with a telescope, on a saddle and a trail, and among peers as a leader of Spectrum. No matter the venue, Katie pulls people in through humor, wit, compassion, and an authentic sense of self; simultaneously she pushes us to consider new perspectives, to listen for the voices of those who have been silenced, and to challenge our intellects with pursuit of the starry unknown. In the classroom, Katie has established herself as a powerful student, one ready to discover the nuance in a challenging text just as easily as stringing together detailed code for an astronomy research project. As one teacher put it, “I cannot recall a moment when I look her way and see anything but a fully engaged, eager, eyes-and-mind-wide-open student.” Katie brings that same sense of exploration and curiosity to her work in our broader community, whether it is to organize an outing to see a groundbreaking film or to counsel her charges in Middle School. Katie, we bid you a fond adieu as you seek your next horizon.

With a contagiously positive spirit, Yosephina danced her way into our hearts right from the moment she arrived on campus. Displaying power mixed with beauty, grace, and strength whenever she takes to the stage, she has thrilled every audience with her deep talent. But Yosephina is so much more than an entertainer—she is a scholar, an advocate, a friend. When she dove into the topic of food discrimination in African-American communities for her Senior Exhibition, Yosephina deftly wove her own personal narrative through the heart of this stark epidemic.

This is hardly a surprise from the passionate co-head of Thacher’s Black Student Union. A dedicated student who seeks truth and genuine understanding, Yosephina brings joy to all that she undertakes. With tremendous empathy and awareness of others, she has been a leader across this campus, but perhaps nowhere more so than in the dance studio. There, with versatility and unique flair, she has led by example and commitment, even choreographing and performing her own original pieces. As she makes her way from our stage to the next, we can’t help but wish there were an encore.

University of Virginia

Barnard College

Béa Low Pierrepont

Michael Noel Ratsimbazafy

She might not realize it yet, but surely the mustang is Béa’s spirit animal; she brings unbridled passion, drive, and unflinching persistence to everything she does. A fierce competitor, dedicated to “team” in every corner of her life, Béa embodies the best qualities of a Thacher student: kindness, commitment, self-awareness, and responsibility. These traits are at the core of the inclusive leadership Béa has brought to her work on campus, particularly with the EAC and her prefectees on the Hill. Whether earning her B-camper status while doing trail work in a walking boot, rolling out an electric bike program for students and faculty, or organizing a 5K for Thomas Fire relief, Béa has built a lasting legacy. Graduating with 12 varsity letters, her impact on our athletic program cannot be overstated. In the classroom she has made powerful contributions to the scholarship and morale of every group she’s been a part of. This spring, while captaining the girls’ varsity lacrosse team, she made time for the care and training of her own horse—a former wild mustang named Willie. How fitting that these brave, strong souls would team up, and how lucky were we to catch sight of it.

Thacher won’t be the same without Michael Ratz here to set the beat. We mean that literally, of course: Michael has been a leader of our Chamber Singers and Jazz Ensemble, so his graduation leaves a big hole to fill in our music program. But his absence will be felt far beyond the Milligan Center stage because what Michael has brought to this campus more than anything else is an undeniably contagious joie de vivre, and a powerful sense of responsibility, for both the big issues and the small. When tough moments threatened to divide our community this winter, Michael, as senior class president, brought his classmates together and helped us all to remember why we love this place so much. His leadership of the Indoor Committee enlivened our weekends while his thoughtful seriousness of purpose as BSU co-head heightened our collective consciousness. And as Upper School prefect, he’s made sure the junior boys take their dishes back to the dining hall.

Big jobs and little jobs: you know that Michael will get them done, with a positive spirit, a sense of inclusion, and a vision of what Thacher means.

Colorado College

Bates College

Christopher Burke Robinson

Joelle Rubeli

For a guy who eschews the spotlight, it seemed that Chris could not avoid it this year. On any given day, he might be starring in an Indoor Committee announcement as an Indoor head, shepherding prospective families as a head tour guide, or occupying two of the loneliest positions in sports, starting goalie on the soccer team and starting pitcher on the baseball team. No matter the role, Chris brought his steadfast demeanor and quiet confidence, along with a good dose of humility. These qualities have translated to his academic life as well, where his depth of determination and commitment to detail have led to success in areas as disparate as biology and English. His teammates and coaches will sorely miss him, as he is revered for his consistent leadership and steely resolve.

Chris has also shared his love of athletics in the Ojai community as an enthusiastic volunteer with AYSO’s VIP program; he used his experience there to create his own version of it on the baseball diamond. And as a tenor in the Chamber Singers, Chris’s other “team,” his consistency helped the group flourish in France. So thank you for stepping into that spotlight, Chris. It looks good on you.

For Joelle, it’s all about mastery. From Mandarin Chinese to theater to academic research to singing, Joelle has continuously captivated us over her four years here. Known for her nimble mind, her conscientious work ethic, and her drive to squeeze every last drop out of each intellectual endeavor, Joelle has continually extended the bounds of her mastery—and in so doing she has given much to this community as well. You don’t have to look far to find Joelle’s touch: as a head of our Writing Center, or out on the gymkhana field where she led by example as she put horsemanship above speed while training her dark horse, Cutter. But it is on the stage where Joelle’s light shines brightest: whether strumming her guitar and singing in her rich, throaty voice or perfectly portraying a complex character with just the right balance of humor and seriousness, Joelle shows us, over and over again, what true mastery looks like. She has stolen the show—and our hearts—more times than we can count, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Duke University

Northwestern University

Diallo Kandia Scott

Gabriela Isabelle Sierra

Diallo arrived on campus almost four years ago ready to grow—in more ways than one. With a full heart and an eager mind, Diallo took on challenge after challenge and accomplished more than perhaps even he envisioned.

His teachers have truly appreciated his powerful intellect, his focus in class, and his commitment to doing his best work; a math teacher once called him “unstoppable.”

Additionally, several faculty members have commented on how willing Diallo is to lend a hand to a struggling classmate. This helpfulness played well in his role as Lower School prefect, where he guided his charges with a firm but gentle hand. On the tennis court, Diallo is a force to be reckoned with. His strong play helped the team have a successful season, during which he provided key leadership as a captain. Without question, Diallo has grown, and we are thrilled to see the quietly confident, kind, and intellectually curious young man before us ready for new adventures in a new place where he will, no doubt, reach new heights once again.

What do Argentina, England, Honduras, Indonesia, the Philippines, the U.S., and Venezuela have in common?

Our globe-trotting Gaby has graced them all with her spirited presence. In the process, she has learned that a home isn’t defined by four walls, but rather by the relationships one forms inside those walls—where we share our passions, our frustrations, and our greatest successes with those around us. For Gaby, as cliché as it sounds, her home is where her heart is—and fortunately, her heart is big enough to embrace us all. And don’t be deceived by her diminutive stature; Gaby is a force to be reckoned with.

Fiercely loyal to her family, her friends, and to the ideals she holds dear, she doesn’t shy away from standing up for what she thinks is right. In her time at Thacher, she has developed a particular commitment to gender equity, and her Senior Exhibition about pants was as much about feminism and the empowerment of women to challenge the patriarchal norms as it was about fashion. The obvious answer, therefore, to the question of “Who wears the pants around here?” is clearly “Gabriela.”

Johns Hopkins University

Wake Forest University

Alexis Anne Silverman

Griffin Daniel Somaratne

Simply put, Lexie is the consummate student: intellectually curious, incredibly hard working, and fully engaged.

She is the perfect example of what can be accomplished when you believe in yourself, trust those who believe in you, and push yourself further than you think you can go.

The results have been nothing short of stellar: advancing a level in our mathematics program, overcoming injury to help lead the soccer team, and earning multiple commendations, not to mention the admiration of teachers and peers. While there have been times Lexie could have gotten by on her natural abilities, that’s just not how she operates. Rather, her genuine desire to grow and learn, to be her best self and give her best to others, is at the core of everything she does, in and out of the classroom.

From her devotion to her freshmen and the kids at Special Olympics to her encouragement of teammates on the field, for which she earned recognition as the most supportive and inspirational player, Lexie has lifted up those around her with her optimism, kindness, and clear sense of right and wrong. Lexie, you have set the bar high and then gracefully jumped over it.

A thought-provoking art piece. A clever issue of The Avocado. A solo on the saxophone. A carefully crafted image in a poem. Griffin’s ability to create—with paintbrush or pen, with voice or instrument—at a high level has allowed him to enliven seemingly every corner of our community. In the classroom, Griffin’s talent is as astonishing for its quality as it is for its breadth. Teachers commend his ability to analyze, his tenacity in research, his talent for language acquisition, and his seemingly unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Through all of this success shines Griffin’s lack of pretense, which leads him to share the tale of being both the first and the second freshman to be bucked off of a horse, or allows him to embrace the role of the Big Bad Wolf in the Spring Sing rendition of Shrek. And then there is Griffin’s unwavering commitment to social justice, demonstrated most recently in his incisive analysis of transgender students in boarding schools and his policy recommendations for Thacher. Importantly, for Griffin, these diverse interests are not a matter of appearing “well-rounded,” but rather an authentic reflection of his process of self-discovery.

Wesleyan University

Stanford University

Madeline Reeves Waltemath

Mary Ophelia Walton

Quick with a smile and a hearty laugh, Maddy is the big sister everyone wants to have; the friend we love. Downto-earth and oh so kind, Maddy wants to know what makes people tick. It was no surprise to us that she would dive into a complex personality test for her Senior Exhibition, enlightening her audience with insightful ways to better know themselves. A competitive three-sport varsity athlete with fearless tenacity and serious spunk, Maddy is a true team player. Her humility and generosity of spirit on and off the fields make her a natural as a prefect to junior girls, a facilitator in our HR&S program, and a head tour guide. Intertwining faith and a familial sense of service, Maddy looked beyond the gates of Thacher with weekly trips to the Gables retirement home during her four years here. Playing one of the “Fionas” in the Spring Sing’s rendition of Shrek this year, we saw yet another way Maddy connects to others—singing. Powerful and passionate, she commanded center stage and entranced her audience. So while we can’t all claim Maddy as a sister, we’re certainly glad she’s part of the Thacher family.

Perfectly poised and beautifully balanced, May has glided through her time at Thacher with the grace and strength of the talented dancer she is. Her ease of movement on the stage and in the classroom combined with her outward calm may initially disguise the inner passion and determination she brings to all she does, but not for long.

As a lead in Dance Ensemble, May has been an image of harmony in motion and a true mentor to younger students. Whip-smart and incredibly conscientious, May’s shelves are full of departmental commendations from Spanish, history, English, and the arts. Her unparalleled work ethic led one teacher to comment, “On the first day of the term, May claimed seat number one in the front and never relinquished it.” To her girls in Middle School, May is a warm, thoughtful listener who uses her even-keeled perspective and sense of humor to positive effect. Natalia Makarova, a prima ballerina, once said, “A real ballerina must fill her space with her own personality.” We applaud and appreciate the many spaces that May has filled on our campus and in our hearts. Her final allegro completed, we stand in ovation.

Wake Forest University

University of Virginia

Pa Houa Xiong

Lingyu “Mary” Yan

Serious, steady, committed, and successful, Pa Houa generates a pervasive sense of calmness and definition in the way that she goes about her business. Clear in her vision and blessed with a probing mind, her leadership in The United Cultures of Thacher has been thoughtful and nuanced. Her Senior Exhibition on the challenges faced by first-generation students demonstrated perfectly her ability to move objectively from the self to larger issues facing our society. She balances her own competitive instincts with a deeply compassionate heart; she recognizes, she seeks change, and she avoids judgment. Of course, the sophomore girls in Middle School respect her and seek her out. Did we mention that she also choreographs and performs hip-hop routines that are the envy of her classmates? Yes, she does pursue her dance with the utmost of seriousness, but don’t be fooled by her concentrated expression or the precision of her steps.

This is fun, and her dancing offers us a quick insight into the way that Pa Houa balances her life: satisfaction comes from the hard work of both study and expression, from both thoughtful engagement and release, from both the personal and the universal. Pa Houa has definitely found her groove.

If we’re being honest, this tribute would most likely be better if we had asked Mary to write it herself. We all know her writing: beautiful, poignant, emotive. And thanks to her phenomenal Senior Exhibition, many of us are now familiar with her impressive presentation skills.

One might find Mary’s talent as a writer and orator a bit unexpected, given her past uncertainty about her English, but if you know Mary and how determined, creative, and adaptable she is, her success makes perfect sense. We have certainly benefited from her commitment to her craft, as she has served as editor-in-chief of The Notes, co-headed Lit Society, co-founded TEDx Club, and shared with us her powerful original work. Beyond her writing, Mary has embraced her intellectual journey here on all levels and has been called a “scholar who engages 110 percent.” All the while, her kindness and good heart have shined brightly, so much so that she earned the Marvin Shagam Award and served as both a member of the Judicial Council and a Casa prefect this past year. Mary, your Thacher story has been nothing short of extraordinary; we could not have asked for anything more.

Macalester College

Johns Hopkins University

Francisco Vidal Zamora Whether he’s plugging a classic suspense film like Hitchcock’s North by Northwest, the outrageous, more contemporary comedy of Dumb and Dumber, or the haunting world of Japanese anime, Francisco brings energy and enthusiasm as well as a bit of history and insight about the world of cinema. His Assembly announcements have been an anticipated weekly event, as evidenced by the rousing applause each time he steps in front of the community. Indeed, Francisco has transformed the Thacher Film Society by helping his peers discover extraordinary films that are saying important things about life and art in surprising and unexpected ways. An independent and creative thinker, Francisco has also found outlets in moving photography and artwork highlighting a wildly powerful imagination and meticulous attention to detail. A piece he created for an Independent Project in surrealism resulted in nearly 170 hours of painstaking work. He brings the same curiosity and creative approach to classroom experiences as well, often sparking discussions that make us all step back and see things through another lens. Of course that is the key from all of his endeavors: look once, consider deeply, and look again. Thanks for teaching us, Francisco.

Santa Clara University

Looking Beyond Graduation Your memory of this moment and of your time at Thacher will not be static. It will evolve into something richer and deeper, enduring as one of the defining times of your life. See the possibilities ahead of you and realize the impact of the choices you make.

And when you falter, when you make a mistake, recall this moment and what it represents. Remember the values of this School. Sift through your memories of these years and use your reflections to help you see more clearly, to help guide your next steps. Seek out other Toads. We are connected through this place and our shared experiences here. Our bond is deep and our connection is real because we see—truly see—each other for who we are and for who we can, should, and must be.

Excerpted from the Baccalaureate address given at the Senior Banquet by Dr. Jennifer P. Rowland CdeP 1998.

This Place Here out in the western sky Our hearts, they will remain Wherever our dreams may fly Wherever we may be There’s one thing One that stays the same This Place I’ll miss the orange blossoms in the morning As the dew lay on the ground I’ll miss the rosy sunset We’d watch without a sound The hills and horses And hawks upon the wing And I’ll miss you, my friends to whom I sing But oh, so much we shared together And all that we have learned Will remain forever, the way of life we lived These things These they will endure with This Place Where'er we go No matter No matter How far We will know Who we are…

I’ll miss the orange blossoms in the morning As the dew lay on the ground I’ll miss the rosy sunset We’d watch without a sound The hills and horses And hawks upon the wing And I’ll miss you, my friends to whom I sing!

Words and music: Gregory Haggard (BMI) 2000

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