The Belfry
To the Class of 2025,
Congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone! Your collaborative spirit and unwavering support have truly defined your journey here at Norfolk Academy. From passionately cheering on classmates during intense matchups against Cape Henry to relaxed afternoons spent bonding in the senior lounge, you’ve consistently shown spirit and genuine community engagement.
Throughout the year, seniors have pursued their passions in every corner of our community — academically, athletically, and artistically. Athletes shattered school records, led teams, and dominated the TCIS conference season after season. The arts flourished as well, with outstanding senior-led productions like Clue and Legally Blonde. Whether performing in the orchestra, band, chorus, or contributing vibrant pieces to the Perrel Art Gallery, seniors have filled our campus with creativity and inspiration.
As senior editors of The Belfry, we’ve genuinely loved capturing your stories and perspectives through a variety of mediums — from thought-provoking political cartoons and seemingly impossible crosswords to stunning photography. Serving as editors has been more than a responsibility; it has been an incredible privilege to amplify the diverse voices within our student body.
Above all, what stands out are the lasting connections that we’ve formed along the way. As senior editors, we’ve cherished growing closer to our faculty advisor, Señora Thompson, through every deadline, redesign, and publication, and we know this experience mirrors the journey of our entire class. The friendships we’ve built here — with classmates, teachers, and coaches — have shaped who we are. From chatting over senior donuts on Thursday mornings, to cheering each other on during games and meets, to navigating tough labs together in chemistry class, these are the moments that we’ll remember and cherish long after graduation.
From the joyful chaos of Spirit Week to impassioned Senior Speeches, the Class of 2025 leaves behind a legacy filled with resilience, passion, and a lot of Bulldog pride.
On behalf of The Belfry staff, thank you, and we wish you all the best on your next adventure!
— Noor Swanson ’25 and Leo Tang ’25, Co-Editors-in-Chief
THE CLASS OF 2025
Aaron Alofer
Florida Atlantic University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me the importance of integrity to maintaining an environment of trust.”
Zachary Armentrout
University of Virginia
“Norfolk Academy has taught me how to push myself. Instead of taking the easy road and cruising through life, Norfolk Academy has provided me with the opportunity to be challenged in a way where I can persevere through hardships, learn from my mistakes, and become more selfdriven.”
WILLIAM HENRY THOMPSON LOYALL MEMORIAL AWARD
Lidia Barros dos Reis
James Madison University
“At NA, trying and experimenting with new things that are out of my comfort zone has left a lasting impact on me. I really enjoy getting a sense of what situations I will have to deal with in a future working environment.”
Leiden University College
“Feast Fridays, or sharing baked goods and positive energy with the DiJulio advisee, are always a fun experience. Sharing an uplifting moment with my friends and advisor amidst the busy week has become indispensable throughout the year”
Annie Avery
Washington and Lee University
“Ever since I learned the honor code in first grade, Norfolk Academy has instilled a sense of honor in me that I use not only in school, but in my everyday life. I have become a better person because of it.”
VIRGINIA THOMAS BELL AWARD
Anna Lise Barton
Georgetown University
“Behaving honorably and with integrity has become a personal expectation and what I look for in others. No matter where we go or who we become, being of good character is what defines us, and for me it began with a simple pledge scribbled on an assignment at Norfolk Academy.”
ELIZABETH PORTER
BENNETT AWARD
FINE ARTS AWARD
ANN CARROLL BREEDEN
FELLOWSHIP AWARD
Amanda Avila
Claire Baum
University of South Carolina
“Norfolk Academy has taught me the importance of kindness and inclusivity. I’ve learned how beneficial it is to be friends with everyone and branch out from small friend groups. When I grow up, I will never forget how the NA community taught me to be kind and friendly to everyone.”
Brock Becker
Villanova University
“The people at the school have made a lasting impact on me. Both the teachers and my classmates are people who I will remember forever.”
Ellie Burnette
Sewanee: The University of the South
“NA has impacted me by fostering a tight-knit community where I built lifelong relationships with my classmates. Being with the same extraordinary, diverse, and interesting group of people has created a unique sense of trust that has shaped my personal growth and made my time here incredibly special.”
Sewanee: The University of the South
“My few years at Norfolk Academy have taught me the importance of integrity and honesty with others and with yourself.”
“My ECO Maymester experience at the end of my junior year has been one of my favorite experiences because it was fun to explore rural Virginia with friends and take a break from any other duties or requirements, such as school’s daily grind. I had a great time hiking, swimming in waterfalls, and learning about the environmental situation in agricultural settings.”
Will Burnette
University of Mississippi
“Norfolk Academy has left a lasting impact on me because the people I’ve met here will be lifelong friends.”
Lia Burr
Florida Atlantic University
“Norfolk Academy has been such an amazing school, and I have learned so much from it. It has been such a welcoming environment, and it is so cool to come to a school where I can just leave my stuff out in the open and it will not get stolen. I’m sad to be leaving such a community.”
THEATER
ARTS AWARD
Williams College
“Aside from teaching me how to lash a four-inhand necktie knot and tuck in a button down, NA has taught me to hold myself to a high standard of decorum and academics, while also how to kick a welleducated joke around and laugh with friends.”
ROBERT F. BALDWIN CITIZENSHIP AWARD S.BARRON SEGAR AWARD HEAD OF SCHOOL
Tulane University
“Norfolk Academy has left an impact on me due to the importance of the honor code. When I graduate, I will walk away with something that many people do not grow up having, and it will benefit my future.”
“My favorite nonclassroom experience has to be the German Exchange – both the traveling and the hosting parts. The people I met and the things I got to see will always be in my heart.”
Bela Cancado
Jude Carroll Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Travis Carroll
Sabrina Casagrande
Iro Catravas Barnard College
Caroline Chastain
University of Mississippi
“At NA, the sense of community is powerful. It doesn’t matter what grade someone is in; connections and friendships are easy to build across all levels.”
Nathan Chay
Hampden-Sydney College
“Through playing both lacrosse and football, I’ve made lifelong friendships and had some of the best memories in my time here at Norfolk Academy.”
George Mason University
“Even though this place has equipped me with excellent academic knowledge for college, I can never forget the people I have met here. From teachers, coaches, and best friends, I do not think that I would have made it to 12th grade if it was not for these special people in my life.”
University of Rochester
“Norfolk Academy helped me build lifelong relationships. It instilled in me a sense of honor and integrity.”
Penn State University
“Norfolk Academy’s student-teacher relationships have left a long-lasting impact on me. This part of the Norfolk Academy culture has taught me how to communicate openly with adults, which will help me in the workplace.”
Jessica Cheng
Costello Ciuffo
Mia Clarkson
Nora Clingenpeel
University of Florida
“I am so grateful for the endless opportunities at Norfolk Academy - from the amazing sports teams and teachers to the chances to study abroad or get involved in the community. My experiences here have helped shape me and prepare me for my next chapter.”
Parker Codington
Princeton University
“Creating new relationships is something that I have learned from my time at NA, and without its culture I wouldn’t have been able to do it.”
University of Tennessee
“Norfolk Academy has taught me how to stand out and be confident in my leadership and social skills. Assigned lunch tables, Leadership Lab groups, and Maymester rosters have built my conversational skills so that I can talk to anyone, and outside of campus I feel sure of myself no matter the setting.”
Fletcher Creech
William & Mary
“Norfolk Academy introduced a hard work ethic and a workload that has helped me work outside of school and will continue to help me throughout college and my career. It also gave me the opportunity to develop lifelong relationships and memories.”
North Carolina State University
“The existence of such a strong community of Bulldogs has really inspired me. I came from a school where that kind of community and trust did not exist. I really am grateful for it.”
Rachel Cole
Mikie Creedon
ROYCE E. JONES AWARD
CHARLES FORSYTH WIRTH AWARD
EDITH PRATT MASTERSON HONOR AWARD
Olivia Crocker
High Point University
“I am the confident person I am today because of Norfolk Academy. Whether it be the speech programs, Leadership Lab, Maymester, or just the general classroom setting, NA has truly allowed for me to embrace new opportunities and trust in my abilities.”
Collin Crum
Florida State University
“Norfolk Academy has improved my writing and prepared me for college.”
Cooper Cutchins
Penn State University
“Norfolk Academy has left a lasting impact on me through the relationships I have formed with coaches, teachers, and fellow students. It has shown me the importance of community.”
Charlie Dailey
Kenyon College
“Norfolk Academy has given me my best friends since first grade. Norfolk Academy has also given me the opportunity to build long-lasting relationships with my teachers and coaches.”
Neev Dani
Penn State University
“At Norfolk Academy, teachers not only focus on academic growth but also take an active role in mentoring outside the classroom. This personalized guidance has shown me the value of building relationships that extend beyond the classroom and has shaped my character and leadership skills.”
MUSICAL THEATER AWARD
JOHN A. TUCKER ATHLETIC AWARD
Brooke DiGeronimo
Clemson University
“The biggest lessons that Norfolk Academy will leave with me are work hard, play hard, and most importantly, uplift your peers so that they can do the same and be the best they can possibly be.”
Griffin Dobbs
Rochester Institute of Technology
“NA has taught me a plethora of skills, from finding the volume between two curves using Calculus, to having a full dialogue in Spanish about my summer break. NA has pushed me to be the BEST me that I can be.”
Luke Dobrin
Hampden-Sydney College
“Norfolk Academy has left me with a sense of honor that will never fade. I will live by the honor code as long as I live.”
Joe Dodd
University of Tennessee
“At Norfolk Academy, my problem-solving skills have improved dramatically. In the Middle and Upper schools, there is a sense of responsibility and independence. All students are given the opportunity to handle their own problems, and this has had such a positive impact on my high school life.”
Clemson University
“Norfolk Academy has left a lifelong impact on me through my best friends. If it wasn’t for NA, I wouldn’t have them, and I don’t know where or who I’d be without them!”
SALLY TALIAFERRO DRIVER AWARD WILLIAM WADSWORTH DEY JR. MEMORIAL
Carnegie Mellon University
“Norfolk Academy has reminded me time and time again of two things that I believe will never leave me as I go forth in life. The first is to approach all things with enthusiasm (it does not need to be overt as long as you truly have it). The second is the importance of cooperation.”
Boston University
“NA has taught me to leave my comfort zone, take advantage of new opportunities, and connect with those around me! I am so glad to be a Bulldog.”
Xander Dukas
Northeastern University
“Norfolk Academy has really taught me to look at everything through different lenses. From the big picture to minutiae, NA has shown me how to analyze and think critically.”
AWARD
Texas A&M University
“NA instilled in me a deep appreciation for community. The emphasis on critical thinking, paired with a supportive environment, encouraged me to always challenge myself with extra classes and extracurriculars. This foundation has shaped my approach to problem-solving and personal growth.”
Carnegie Mellon University
“Norfolk Academy has made me more passionate about the things I care about. It also has taught me the importance of community, tradition, and dedication.”
Sophie Dupré
Alexander Dusa
Carol Earp
Megan Evans
Adam Fairchilds
Cana Fass
Boston College
“I have learned that there’s almost nothing as important as the ability to talk to and communicate well with your teachers. Through my years at NA, I have learned to make the most of every teacherstudent relationship, and I will carry this skill with me to college and beyond.”
Jacksonville University
“My NA wrestling experience has taught me that no matter how hard something is, it will eventually pass. I should stick with difficult things.”
Ellie Fickenscher
University of South Carolina
“Norfolk Academy has instilled in me a respect for integrity and honor in all areas of my life. It has shown me how much stronger a community is when its members can trust one another.”
Will Foley
Hampden-Sydney College
“Being here for 12 years, I know I have made friendships and connections that will stick with me throughout my life.”
Peter Galiotos
University of Virginia
“Norfolk Academy has taught me to be dynamic and attempt multiple different things. Don’t settle in and become onedimensional. The more extracurriculars you participate in, the more you will learn, meet new people, and overall have a better experience.”
Sarah Glassman
Virginia Tech
“At NA, teachers have taught me to believe in myself and to always go after what I want.”
Jacob Gonzales
James Madison University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me life lessons that go far beyond the classroom. The connections and the people are what make this place so special.”
THOMAS CORNICK RIXEY AWARD
Brigid Gross
University of Alabama
“Norfolk Academy has left an impact on me because of the relationships I have been able to form over the years. This school has led me to people who have helped me grow in so many ways.”
Jiya Ghetia
Penn State University
“Norfolk Academy’s honor code has left a lasting impact on me by teaching me a new level of trust and respect for others.”
Hampden-Sydney College
“Attending NA for 12 years has helped me form relationships with my friends and teachers. I will cherish the memories I’ve made throughout the years.”
Kaleb Gibson
Ethan Guerrero
Graham Gunn
William & Mary
“A major way that Norfolk Academy has impacted me is in my ability to ask for help. I feel that, as a result of the environment here, I’m not afraid to admit when I need help, and I’m able to comfortably ask for that help from my mentors and superiors.”
Lauren Harvey
James Madison University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me the value of community. As I look back, I realize that this school has not only given me an education but also a sense of belonging and purpose.”
Lincoln Hatch
University of Michigan
“NA has taught me the importance of using my voice. Oftentimes it is easier to keep it holed up inside during difficult times and not use it to advocate for yourself. But NA has shown me that when you do use your voice, you can get things done and make opportunities for yourself and for others.”
Addy Hennessy
Christopher Newport University
“Over my 12 years, I’ve learned how valuable strong connections are and how essential it is to be able to confidently communicate with adults. It’s a skill I once took for granted but I now realize how rare it is, and I’m grateful to NA for preparing me to navigate the world beyond our bubble.”
Grant Higgins
University of Richmond
“At Norfolk Academy, I have learned how to persevere in the face of hard work. I have worked my way through overwhelming essays and excruciating swim practices, both of which initially seemed impossible for me to complete, but became manageable by facing them head on.”
Jackson Hnath
Penn State University
“The connections I have built with teachers and coaches will leave a lasting impact. No other school I have attended has had teachers who care about their students as much as Norfolk Academy.”
Joseph Hobbs
Virginia Tech
“Norfolk Academy fosters an atmosphere where the teachers’ doors are always open to students. We feel comfortable reaching out to them or just stopping by whether it be for help on an assignment or project or just to talk about sports or current events.”
Gabriel Hosu
Dartmouth College
“International travel with the Global Affairs program and Maymester exposed me to very different parts of the world. I found it fascinating to compare the way people think and act in South America and Europe with the way Americans live their lives.”
Will Howerton
Indiana University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me what it means to be a part of a community. Being a part of something larger than yourself is an incredible feeling and gives you an opportunity to contribute to the common good.”
Sydney Huddleston
American University
“Nowhere else will you find a community of people who care for each other and are always cheering you on. Being a Bulldog has been the greatest privilege, and, I am a better person as a result of this place that I get to call my second home.”
ROBERT W. TUNSTALL MEMORIAL AWARD
Alexis Huelsberg
University of Miami
“NA has made me a more outgoing and hardworking person; I have found so much joy in simply talking with teachers during free bells and smiling and waving at people in the halls, and I have learned how rewarding hard work can be. Attending NA has also taught me how important it is to live in the moment.”
TRAYLOR COZART NUNNALLY GERMAN AWARD
University of North Carolina Wilmington
“Norfolk Academy has left a lasting impact on me by teaching me the value of honor in everything I do. Learning to lead with honor and stay true to my values has not only shaped my character but also helped me build deep and lasting friendships.”
Anna Iacobucci
Cornell University
“NA has implanted a strong sense of honor and integrity into me that will stay there for the rest of my life. Ever since I joined the 4th grade, we always wrote the honor pledge at the top of graded assignments and understood that anything we put forward as our own work must truly be ours.”
ELIZABETH REYNOLDS PARKER SENIOR SCIENCE AWARD HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARD
Owen Kulow
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
“NA taught me a sense of honor and respect that I couldn’t have gotten anywhere else. I’ve built lifelong friendships, gained meaningful life experience, and grown as a person so much due to Norfolk Academy.”
Pete Januchowski
Wofford College
“Norfolk Academy has left a lasting impact on me in the way that it has prepared me to succeed in my future endeavors. Through the incredible support structure (teachers with an immense passion for their subject, college counselors, etc.), I feel confident that I am prepared for my undergraduate and graduate education.”
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
“The Norfolk Academy culture is something that I will always hold close to my heart. The people around me are always positive and looking to help in any way they can. I have grown to appreciate the work ethic and ability to make connections with teachers and students.”
Sophia Kamarek
High Point University
“Johnson stage feels like a home away from home where I can be myself and have fun while singing and dancing. I will really miss preforming on that stage, but I am so grateful for the time I spent in there because it has helped me grow as a person.”
Ayla Kell
University of Virginia
“Reflecting on all of the amazing qualities that NA has instilled in meconfidence, philanthropy, perspective - none are more important than respect. On the first day of first grade, I was taught to shake my teachers’ hands every morning.”
Brady Lafler
Radford University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me how to navigate obstacles and focus on the task at hand. I have developed skills that I will carry with me forever.”
University of Alabama
“Norfolk Academy has left a lasting impact on me through the countless memories I’ve made in the classroom, on the field, and through clubs. Beyond the memories, NA has given me the skills, confidence, and values that are necessary for my success in the future.”
Andersen Legum
Sofia Kohler
Becca Kyler
Silver Lerner
University of Maryland
“The fact that I have so many teachers who impacted my life truly shows the community that NA brought to me. The same goes for the lifelong friends NA allowed me to make through random lunch tables, group projects, Leadership Lab, and Maymester. NA does a great job of teaching us social skills, which I know will take me quite far in the future.”
Peyton McGee
Bucknell University
“Norfolk Academy’s teacher-student relationships have left an impact on me. Each teacher cares for one student just as much as the other, they are always willing to help with schoolwork or even chat about anything. This dynamic has helped me communicate with both my peers and teachers.”
Abigail Littlejohn
Penn State University
“The 12 years I have spent at Norfolk Academy can be described by one word: opportunity.”
Aidan Marilley
Texas A&M University at Galveston
“Norfolk Academy has helped me develop longlasting friendships over the past 12 years. These friendships will be with me for many more years to come.”
Natalie Martin
William & Mary/ University of St Andrews Joint Degree Programme
“I will take the honor code to college and beyond. I am more than grateful that NA has helped me build a moral compass in a community that I trust.”
Alana McElligott
University of Tennessee
“Norfolk Academy has taught me about how much you can grow in just a few years. I have not only seen myself grow, but those around me in the community grow throughout the years.”
C J Murray
United States Naval Academy
“Norfolk Academy has celebrated the fact that I am involved in sports and theater. Being involved in both has helped me create relationships with teachers and friends that I would’ve never had before. Experiences from both baseball and the musical have shaped me into the man I am today.”
Aya Musselmani
William & Mary
“Norfolk Academy has taught me a strong work ethic and the importance of forming relationships with teachers. I know I will not be afraid to reach out to professors in college and I will maintain the work ethic I have developed here.”
MR. AND MRS. LAWSON MILES JR. AWARD DAVID ARI LEAVITT AWARD
Kevin Park
Georgia Tech
“From Cross Country to the Senior-Faculty Basketball Game and the Be Someone Concert, Norfolk Academy has opened my eyes to trying new opportunities. I think I’ve always had little ideas that I’ve wanted to try out, but it was here that I was able to transform these dreams into reality.”
VICTOR AND JOYCE RATNAVALE SCIENCE AWARD
Ben
Parker
Bates College
“NA has taught me countless positive lessons. Three of the most important are to always put 100% effort into whatever you are doing, take time to stop, make connections with others, and appreciate the world around you, and live a life that you can be proud of.”
TRAYLOR COZART NUNNALLY GERMAN AWARD HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARD
ARTHUR A. MacCONOCHIE AWARD
Penn State University
“Norfolk Academy has left a lasting impact on me with the bonds I have created with my teachers and coaches. Norfolk Academy has also left an impact on me about how strong the community is. Homecoming, Snow Ball, and Prom dances are just a few examples of events that truly show this.”
University of Virginia
“NA has truly helped me come out of my shell and create meaningful friendships. The relationships and bonds I had with my classmates and teachers are ones that I will continue to cherish and never forget.”
Washington and Lee University
“The friendships and relationships at NA will be something that will last with me forever, and I am extremely grateful for all of them.”
New York University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me to find good people. Once you find your group of people, life is good.”
GEORGE W. SERGEANT MEMORIAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP CLASS OF 1952 AWARD
Tufts University
“Norfolk Academy has given me a sense of honor and respect that cannot be found anywhere else. That honor will be with me throughout my life, and I have only Norfolk Academy to thank for that.”
Addie Peterson
Jack Poynter
Aadi Patel
Aashi Patel
Jack Payne
Taylor Purcell
University of Virginia
“Though a few years from now I may not remember every Calculus unit, or every book I read in an English class, I am confident I will not forget the conversations I’ve had with the faculty. Our community is as strong as it is thanks to the teachers, who care so deeply about educating the students and seeing us succeed.”
Joji Purdy
Penn State University
“Having been here since first grade, Norfolk Academy has taught me what it means to be a part of a tight-knit and supportive community. The teachers, peers, coaches, mentors, and friends I have met since starting at Norfolk Academy are like my family, and I am forever grateful to NA for introducing them to me.”
Nathan Rafal
University of Miami
“I think the seniorfirst grade buddy program is a special program unique to NA. I remember being so inspired by my senior buddies as a first grader, and I hope I am providing my first grade buddy with the same experience this year.”
Olivia Reid
Johns Hopkins University
“At Norfolk Academy, I believe I have truly learned how to be my own person. I’m so grateful to have had the privilege to try new things and fail in a safe space so that I could decide the future that I want to achieve.”
BIBLE AWARD HIGH HONORS AWARD
MARY McCULLOCH MOORE MATHEMATICS MEMORIAL AWARD THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AWARD
Ruby Reis
Virginia Tech
“The culture at Norfolk Academy is something I will always hold close to my heart. Walking through the halls, there’s an unspoken expectation to greet everyone with a smile or a friendly hello, which creates a welcoming environment.”
GEORGE NEWTON AWARD
Charlotte Roberson
Radford University
“Norfolk Academy is a school like no other, filled to the brim with faculty who truly care for their students more than any other school I’ve ever been to.”
Paddy Roberts
Hobart and William Smith Colleges
“I have become a better student, a better friend, and better athlete because of Norfolk Academy. I made many friends during my time at NA, and I wouldn’t be the type of person I am today without the teachers and friends I have.”
Sallie Clarke Roberts
University of Kentucky
“As part of the athletic program at NA, each team meant a lot to me. They have not only shaped me as an athlete but also helped me forge some of my closest friendships.”
Josie Saffold
High Point University
“I will always cherish the close relationships with fellow students, coaches, and teachers that I have developed at Norfolk Academy.”
David Salter
William & Mary “Norfolk Academy has taught me the importance of building a community upon the cornerstone of trust. I am beyond grateful to have learned upon my arrival to Mrs. Evelyn’s first grade class that relationships mean nothing without trust.”
Scarlet Schoenfeld
William & Mary
“Without Norfolk Academy, I would never have made the friends I have now. I also would never have been given the opportunities which Norfolk Academy has given me. It has been a great experience going here.”
Aanya Shah
University of Virginia
“Norfolk Academy is truly a family, and each person feels so familiar. I have found some of the best friends and have made long lasting bonds with all of my teachers. It isn’t just a school; it really does feel like a home.”
Austin Sorrell
Williams College
“Our school’s culture of shared ambition— and, in part, shared discovery—is unique, something that makes this place feel like home, and, most importantly, proves that both ideas and people are strongest when challenged.”
SIMCOE AND CELIA
GLASSER AWARD
MARY FRANCES
PITCHER SERGEANT
MEMORIAL DRAMA
SCHOLARSHIP
THOMAS McENTEE
MARTIN AWARD
Owen Speers
Wake Forest University
“I think the aspect of Norfolk Academy that has impacted me most is the honor system. The honor code will stick with me forever, and I cannot thank NA enough for that.”
Anne Randolph Staub
Bowdoin College
“Norfolk Academy has taught me the importance of hard work and determination, whether it be pushing yourself for the last rep of a workout or going to see teachers and putting in more time to prepare for an assessment.”
HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARD
CALVERT ROGERS DEY MEMORIAL AWARD
Lucy Staub Colby College
“Norfolk Academy has helped me find some of my best friends and meet people whom I look up to every day. My 12 years at NA have shaped me into the person I am now and have shown me examples of people who I will strive to be. The impact that NA has had on me will forever be important to me, and I will always be grateful for the experience I’ve had here.”
HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARD
Noor Swanson
Dartmouth College
“NA has had a lasting impact on my character through the trust instilled in our community and the close-knit support system the school provides. I have enjoyed being at a school where I can walk into my teacher’s office and share what is on my mind.”
ROBERT STEWART
SERGEANT MEMORIAL
WRITING SCHOLARSHIP
VIRGINIA ELLIS TALBOT AWARD
Jill Stewart University of Mississippi
“My favorite out-ofclassroom experience was Maymester during my junior year. We traveled to El Paso, Texas, and Las Cruces, New Mexico, and got to see right through America’s southern border into Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, its sister city. I am so thankful for the memories I made ‘Along the Border’!”
Drexel University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me how important it is to connect with your teachers.”
Genevieve Stone
Middlebury College
“Over my six years at NA, I have become a much more confident public speaker due to the ninth and 12th grade speech programs and even our sixthgrade poetry recitation. Public speaking is a crucial skill, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to exercise it.”
Hampden-Sydney
College
“Norfolk Academy has left a lasting impact on me through the connections I have made and the people I have formed a strong bond with that will last forever.”
Chance Stuart Lehigh University
“Norfolk Academy has made me resilient in the face of challenges and taught me the importance of hard work. Additionally, the teachers and coaches here have taught me the value of honesty. I hope to carry these principles with me for the rest of my life.”
JEFFREY ROSS KESSER ATHLETIC AWARD
ALEXANDER G. KIEHL AWARD
Mississippi State University
“Norfolk Academy has allowed me to learn at the highest level, while discovering my true potential. More importantly, Norfolk Academy has enabled me to step out of my comfort zone and discover new passions.”
Kaelin Sutton
American University
“Norfolk Academy taught me the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new challenges. Whether it was through engaging in extracurricular activities, participating in discussions, or taking on leadership roles, I learned to push myself beyond what felt familiar.”
Yale University
“Mr. Craig inspired a lifelong love of chemistry and science within me; I hope to return to meet with medical scholars as an MD-PhD candidate one day.”
BIBLE AWARD
JOHN H. INGRAM MEMORIAL AWARD
JOHN H. KEPCHAR
SCIENCE AWARD
MUSIC AWARD
ROBERT GATEWOOD
FELLOWSHIP AWARD
Carmella Tabin
Nicholas Taddeo
Jack Tan
Leo Tang
Sarah Ternes
Christopher Newport University
“The school pride at Norfolk Academy has made an impact on me. I always thought that it was cool that students would show up to other teams’ games to support the team and the school.”
Syracuse University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me the importance of learning how to balance multiple activities and course loads at once. Creating time for each extracurricular or subject is essential to being a well-rounded person.”
Sophia Ternes
Undecided
“Leadership Lab was my favorite non-classroom experience. I believe that program is one of the reasons I love Norfolk Academy. It taught me to rely on myself and others and to be confident instead of fearful.”
Spencer Thompson
Tufts University
“Norfolk Academy has left a lasting impact on me by allowing me to foster close relationships with my teachers and classmates. My relationships have been strengthened daily because of the ability to connect with others.”
University of Virginia
“I have loved getting to know an array of people through the clubs, extracurriculars, and other programs that NA offers. Norfolk Academy has taught me the importance of forging connections, and how valuable friendship truly is.”
WILLIAM SELDEN
MEMORIAL AWARD
DeSHANNON ARTEMIS
TAYLOR AWARD
Claudia Tillar
Dylan Taylor
Shuchi Vachhani
University of Virginia
“Norfolk Academy has taught me how to think critically and thoughtfully, how to articulate and express my ideas confidently, and how to lead passionately and effectively. It has given me an invaluable community that I have been able to grow in both academically and personally.”
Ray
University of Virginia
“Norfolk Academy’s ideals of integrity and accountability will follow me through the rest of my life. I’ve learned that honesty is the crucial first step to building genuine relationships with others.”
Blaise Van Slyke
William & Mary
“Norfolk Academy has provided me with lasting relationships with my teachers, coaches, and friends.”
Nick VanderWilt
Virginia Tech
“Norfolk Academy will always be another home to me. The bonds that you form with your teachers and classmates are bonds that last a lifetime. Along with that, the way they allow you to grow on your own encourages us to become more independent.”
Lucas Varverud
University of South Carolina
“Norfolk Academy has taught me how important having a close-knit community is. The community is bonded so closely together, which makes it feel like home.”
Dominic
American University
“Norfolk Academy gifted me a sense of honor and self-worth through its focus on the honor system from first grade through the Senior Speech Program. This school has taught me to be a maverick through individualism while still uplifting others and being a helpful asset in team-related settings.”
Roanoke College
“Norfolk Academy has left a lasting impact by teaching me the importance of lasting relationships and honesty. This school has taught me that these two things also go hand in hand with each other, as without honesty one can’t achieve a real lasting relationship with others.”
Texas A&M University
“Norfolk Academy has instilled in me the importance of building connections with diverse groups of people and approaching new perspectives with an open mind. It has also encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new challenges.”
North Carolina State University
“Through Maymester, I participated in a cultural exchange to Costa Rica, sharing meals with local families, exploring local towns, and improving my Spanish. Last year, I traveled to Greece, immersing myself in its rich history, culture, and archaeology. These were once-in-a-lifetime experiences that I will never forget.”
Boston University
“Though I have spent so long with my teachers, friends, and classmates at Norfolk Academy, I think that, ironically, they have also given me the knowledge and ambition necessary to leave it and thrive somewhere entirely new.”
Villafranca
Wang
Xander Willis
Haylee Wilson
Lucy Wilson
Amanda Wong
ROBERT D. ANTHONY AWARD
Zach Wood
United States Naval Academy
“Norfolk Academy has helped me to develop a better work ethic and drive to better myself. The athletics have helped to cultivate a competitive drive and developed me into a better leader and individual.”
Emily Xu Tufts University
“Norfolk Academy prides itself on its culture of tight-knit relationships between students and faculty. For that reason, I have been grateful for the opportunity to connect with my closest friends and my teachers as well as I have.”
Tamir
Zach Christopher Newport University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me how to build friendships and relationships. The school has also taught me to respect others.”
HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARD
Eraj Zaidi
George Washington University
“Norfolk Academy has taught me to branch out and try new things. With the variety of opportunities offered at NA, we are privileged enough to step outside our comfort zones.”
Jing
Jing Zhao
Penn State University
“Norfolk Academy was a completely different environment than I had ever witnessed. It introduced me to my best friends, lasting memories, and a wonderful community. Norfolk Academy was so welcoming, and I’m proud to be a Bulldog!”
Ying Ying Zhao
University of Tennessee
“Coming to NA, I had never played a sport at school, and I was encouraged to join teams, which taught me resilience, teamwork, and a love for sports. I have gained so many new mentors and teachers who have become my friends, and new teammates with whom I have formed everlasting memories.”
AWARDS AND PRIZES
BIBLE AWARD
Awarded annually to the valedictorians by Mr. and Mrs. James V. Bickford lll in honor of the spiritual principles inculcated into the environment of the Norfolk Academy by Mr. James B. Massey Jr.
HIGH HONORS AWARD
Awarded to the senior girl who has maintained the highest scholastic average during her last four years.
JOHN H. INGRAM MEMORIAL AWARD
Awarded annually since 1907 by bequest of Miss Susan Ingram in memory of her brother to the senior boy who has maintained the highest scholastic average during his last four years.
SCHOLASTIC AWARDS
Scholastic Awards are made on the recommendation of the departmental faculty.
MR. AND MRS. LAWSON MILES JR. AWARD
Awarded annually by Mrs. Neal N. Brock ’61 and Miss Georgianna Serpell Miles ’66 in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Lawson Miles Jr., founders of The Country Day School, to a senior girl for excellence in the study of history.
WILLIAM SELDEN MEMORIAL AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of William Selden to an Upper School student for excellence in the study of history.
MARY McCULLOCH MOORE MATHEMATICS MEMORIAL AWARD
Awarded annually by Mr. and Mrs. Charles F. Burroughs Jr., in memory of Mary McCulloch Moore, a teacher and librarian at Norfolk Academy from 1963 to 1965, to a senior girl for excellence in the study of mathematics.
WILLIAM WADSWORTH DEY JR. MEMORIAL AWARD
Awarded annually by Judge and Mrs. W. W. Dey in memory of their son, William Wadsworth Dey Jr., to a senior boy for excellence in the study of mathematics.
ELIZABETH REYNOLDS PARKER SENIOR SCIENCE AWARD
Awarded annually by the family of the late J. Davis Reed in honor of Elizabeth Reynolds Parker, one of the original teachers of The Country Day School, to a senior girl for excellence in science.
JOHN H. KEPCHAR SCIENCE AWARD
Awarded annually in honor of John Kepchar, a former head of the science department of Norfolk Academy, to a senior boy for excellence in all areas of science.
VICTOR AND JOYCE RATNAVALE SCIENCE AWARD
Awarded annually by the family and friends of the Ratnavales, in memory of Victor and Joyce Ratnavale, to the student who has shown the greatest enthusiasm and interest in environmental science or advanced biology.
GEORGE NEWTON AWARD
Awarded annually by Dr. and Mrs. E. Grant Meade in honor of Mrs. Meade’s ancestor, George Newton (born 1678), a founder of Norfolk Academy, to a senior girl for excellence in the study of a modern foreign language.
CALVERT ROGERS DEY MEMORIAL AWARD
Awarded annually by Mr. Meade G. Stone Jr. and Mr. Stuart C. Stone, as a memorial to their grandfather, a graduate, a teacher, and a member of the Board of Trustees of Norfolk Academy from 1914 to 1948, to a boy for excellence in the study of a modern foreign language.
TRAYLOR COZART NUNNALLY GERMAN AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of Traylor Cozart Nunnally ’93 to a fourth year language boy and girl who, by hard work and enthusiasm, have achieved noteworthy success in the study of German.
ELIZABETH PORTER BENNETT AWARD
Awarded annually by Robert H. Bennett ’59 and Anne Randolph Bennett ’63 in honor of their mother, Elizabeth Porter Bennett, one of the original teachers at The Country Day School and a Norfolk Academy teacher for twelve years, to an Upper School girl for excellence in the study of Latin.
ROBERT W. TUNSTALL MEMORIAL AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of Robert W. Tunstall, Principal of Norfolk Academy from 1882 to 1889, to a boy for excellence in the study of Latin.
ROBERT D. ANTHONY AWARD
Awarded by Mrs. William McCarson Jr. in memory of her son, Robert D. Anthony, to a girl for excellence in the study of English.
WILLIAM HENRY THOMPSON LOYALL MEMORIAL AWARD
Awarded annually by Mrs. Leon Smith in memory of her mother, Mrs. James B. McCaw Jr., and her grandfather, William Henry Thompson Loyall, who was a student at Norfolk Academy from 1882 to 1886, to a boy in the Upper School for excellence in the study of English.
ROBERT STEWART SERGEANT MEMORIAL WRITING SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded annually in memory of Rob Sergeant to the most accomplished writer as determined by the English Department.
MINNIE ROTH CAMPBELL AWARD
Awarded annually by an anonymous donor in honor of the mother of Mr. Gordon Campbell to a senior girl for excellence in original writing.
ARTHUR A. MacCONOCHIE AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of Arthur A. MacConochie, English Department Chair from 1967 to 1990, to a senior boy for excellence in original writing.
SIMCOE AND CELIA GLASSER AWARD
Awarded annually to an Upper School student for excellence in the writing of poetry.
W. PEYTON MAY AWARD
Awarded annually by the grandchildren of W. Peyton May, a founding trustee of The Country Day School and a trustee and Vice President for Financial Management of Norfolk Academy, to the outstanding student in the study of economics.
ART HISTORY AWARD
Awarded annually in honor of John H. Tucker Jr., headmaster of Norfolk Academy from 1978-2000, to the senior who has demonstrated the highest level of enthusiasm for and excellence in the study of Art History.
VIRGINIA THOMAS BELL AWARD
Awarded annually by Mrs. Peter B. DuBois ’59 in honor of her mother, a founder of The Country Day School, a member of the Board of Trustees of The Country Day School and Norfolk Academy, and a teacher of art at both schools, to the senior who has made the greatest achievement in the creative arts.
MUSIC AWARD
Awarded annually to the student in the Upper School whose dedication and demonstrated leadership have contributed most significantly to the enjoyment of choral or ensemble music in the school.
MUSICAL THEATER AWARD
Awarded annually by Dr. and Mrs. Earl R. Crouch Jr. to a senior who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, originality, and achievement in the winter musical.
THEATER ARTS AWARD
Awarded annually by Dr. and Mrs. David W. Yacavone to a senior who has demonstrated, either on stage or behind the scenes, leadership, artistry, and excellence in the field of theater arts.
FINE ARTS AWARD
Awarded annually to a talented student in a leadership role in the arts who has encouraged and promoted student participation in the arts.
GEORGE W. SERGEANT MEMORIAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded annually in memory of Rob Sergeant to a senior who is the most accomplished vocalist as determined by the Music Department.
MARY FRANCES PITCHER SERGEANT MEMORIAL DRAMA SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded annually in memory of Rob Sergeant to a senior who is the most accomplished actor or actress as determined by the Drama Department.
JEFFREY ROSS KESSER ATHLETIC AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of Jeffrey Kesser ’80 to the senior boy who has made the greatest contribution to the boys’ athletic program.
JOHN A. TUCKER ATHLETIC AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of John A. Tucker, the first coach of a girls’ varsity athletic team at Norfolk Academy from 19691974, to the senior girl who has made the greatest contribution to the girls’ athletic program.
SCHOOL AWARDS
CLASS OF 1952 AWARD
Awarded annually by the Class of 1952 to the senior who is named by a panel of outside judges to be the outstanding speaker, the name to be inscribed on a permanent plaque that will remain in the school.
BERNICE BRADSHAW LOVITT CITIZENSHIP AWARD
Awarded annually by the Tunstall Student Council in honor of Mrs. Bernice Bradshaw Lovitt, Headmistress of The Country Day School and Director of Studies at Norfolk Academy until her retirement in 1975, to the senior girl, not a member of the student council, who has exhibited most consistently, and to the highest degree, the qualities of good citizenship within the school community.
ROBERT F. BALDWIN CITIZENSHIP AWARD
Awarded annually by the Tunstall Student Council in memory of Senator Robert F. Baldwin, who attended Norfolk Academy and was a Trustee from 1947-1974, to the senior boy, not a member of the student council, who has exhibited most consistently, and to the highest degree, the qualities of good citizenship within the school community.
EDITH PRATT MASTERSON HONOR AWARD
Selected by vote of the Honor Council and awarded annually to a senior who best exemplifies the Jeffersonian ideals of honor.
THE FOLLOWING AWARDS ARE MADE ON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE UPPER SCHOOL FACULTY
DeSHANNON ARTEMIS TAYLOR AWARD
Awarded annually to a member of the senior class who, like D. A. Taylor ’96, has exhibited with enthusiasm and dedication a true love for both learning and athletic competition.
KATHLEEN MURRAY GIBSON AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of Kathleen “Perky” Murray Gibson ’69 to a senior in recognition of outstanding contributions to student publications at Norfolk Academy.
ROYCE E. JONES AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of Royce E. Jones, Director of Athletics, teacher, and football coach from 1961 to 1979, to the senior athlete whose spirit of determination, commitment to high standards, sense of humor, and positive self-image exemplify excellence within the school community.
JOHN CONNOR COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
This award is given by Dr. and Mrs. William P. Magee Jr. in honor of John Connor, who dedicated his life to humanitarian endeavors, to the Upper School student who has demonstrated the highest degree of unselfishness and caring through service to the community, both at Norfolk Academy and in the greater Hampton Roads area.
THOMAS McENTEE MARTIN AWARD
Awarded annually by the friends of Tom Martin ’50, varsity letterman, class officer, editor of the Belfry and The Orange and White, who, upon entering the Marine Corps Reserve during the Korean War, rose from private to captain and died in the crash of his jet fighter during his second year at the University of Virginia, where he was a member of the Student Council and the only second-year man ever to become editor-in-chief of the Cavalier Daily, to a senior demonstrating initiative, originality, and creative ability.
DAVID ARI LEAVITT AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of David Leavitt ’79 to the junior or senior who has pursued some artistic, literary, intellectual, or public-spirited endeavor with an exceptional degree of originality and humanitarian concern.
CHARLES FORSYTH WIRTH AWARD
Awarded annually by the Harkins and Yuill families in memory of Charles Forsyth Wirth ’93 to a senior boy who, throughout his career at Norfolk Academy, has consistently exhibited honor, loyalty, friendliness, kindness, liveliness, enthusiasm, and has conducted himself as a gentleman.
SALLY TALIAFERRO DRIVER AWARD
Awarded annually by members of the Class of 1961 in memory of Sally Taliaferro Driver to a senior girl who, throughout her career at Norfolk Academy, has consistently and without public recognition, exhibited school spirit, loyalty, friendliness, kindness, liveliness, and enthusiasm.
THOMAS CORNICK RIXEY AWARD
Awarded annually by the members of the Class of 1980 in memory of Tom Rixey to a senior boy who, throughout his career at Norfolk Academy, has consistently exhibited a high degree of good sportsmanship, loyalty, friendliness, kindness, and determination.
ANN CARROLL BREEDEN FELLOWSHIP AWARD
Awarded annually by the children of Edith Pratt Masterson in memory of her mother, Ann Carroll Breeden, to a senior girl whose high degree of good fellowship, and whose completeness as a human being, bring her credit in all walks of life: academic, athletic, artistic, and social.
ROBERT GATEWOOD FELLOWSHIP AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of Robert Gatewood, of the Class of 1845, principal of Norfolk Academy from 1865 to 1882, to a senior boy whose high degree of good fellowship and whose completeness as a human being bring him credit in all walks of life: academic, athletic, artistic, and social.
THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AWARD
Awarded annually to the senior girl who exemplifies a superior degree of devotion and commitment to the unselfish pursuit of excellence in academics and in athletics.
ALEXANDER G. KIEHL AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of Alex Kiehl ’78 to the senior boy who most nearly exemplifies the outstanding characteristic in Alex’s life: a superior degree of devotion and commitment to the unselfish pursuit of excellence in academics and in athletics.
VIRGINIA ELLIS TALBOT AWARD
Awarded annually in memory of Virginia Ellis Talbot, a teacher of Latin and Greek at Norfolk Academy from 1968 to 1970, to the senior girl who has demonstrated the highest degree of leadership through exemplary strength of character.
S. BARRON SEGAR AWARD
Awarded annually by Mr. and Mrs. S. Barron Segar to the senior boy who has rendered to the Academy the highest service through leadership based upon the influence of character.
HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARDS
Awarded annually to seniors for outstanding contributions to the life of the school.
Norfolk Academy . . . strives to assist its students to develop maturity of mind, body, and character. We hope to engender an awareness and appreciation of intellectual, aesthetic, and moral excellence in a setting that offers well-developed programs, not only in the academic disciplines, but also in fine arts, athletics, and service to others. We aim to prepare students to become ultimately useful and responsible citizens of a democracy. We strive to make them aware of their role in creating a just society.
— from the Norfolk Academy Statement of Philosophy
