CELEBRATIONS
Seniors On Different Paths Share Wellington Experience NATALIE TWITCHELL ’15, HENRY BACHA ’15
Wellington offers experiences as diverse as the students within it. For seniors Henry Bacha and Natalie Twitchell, the school offered them countless opportunities to pursue a wide variety of personal interests while at the same time achieving high academic excellence. Bacha came to Wellington in the 9th grade and immediately felt a part of a close-knit community. The school’s no-cut athletic policy allowed him to begin playing baseball for the first time that year. He had so much fun that he continued with it for the next four years. In addition to distinguishing himself as an outstanding student and all-star on Wellington’s In The Know team, Bacha performed on the stage as both an actor and cellist. “I love being involved in theatre because every production is unique,” he said. “My favorite role was playing George in ‘Our Town.” Bacha’s affinity for the performing arts was a natural complement to his favorite classes at Wellington. He considered Poetry and Hamlet to be (or not to be) two of his favorite courses. He enjoyed acting out many of the scenes from the iconic play and likes writing poetry in his spare time. Upper school English teacher Kelly Zavotka was impressed with Bacha’s empathy, responsibility, and commitment to the things he believes in strongly. “These qualities are demonstrated in Henry’s poems, essays, and his verbal discourse,” she said, “whether it be a class discussion in philosophy or a casual conversation about music. Henry’s interest in the world around him is a joyful one and his expression of that joy is supported by the reflections of a sharp mind capable of subtle insights.” 8 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE
Bacha’s compassionate nature was demonstrated in his commitment to helping local teens successfully prepare for standardized academic tests. His volunteer efforts with LASER (Latino and Latin American Space for Enrichment and Research) gave him a love of teaching. “It feels good to know that you are able to help students gain confidence,” he said. As a Wellington Lifer, Natalie Twitchell has had exceptional opportunities to learn and grow through the years. Also a volunteer for LASER, she was able to share the benefits of her education with others not as fortunate. “It’s been really interesting to learn about these people’s lives,” she explained, “and great to know that I helped someone toward his or her dream of going to a good school.” A National Merit Scholar semifinalist and member of the In The Know team, Twitchell found Wellington’s classes challenging and inspiring as she actively followed subjects that most appealed to her. Crediting her Independent Research Project (an intensive self-study program for Wellington seniors) on mouse brains in an Ohio State University laboratory with fueling her fascination with neuroscience, Twitchell plans on continuing her research in college. Government class, conducted similarly to a college seminar, was also a tremendous influence on Twitchell’s desire to lead a Discussion Club, in which upper school students freely discuss social issues. She also participated in Ohio Youth in Government, an activity Twitchell considered formative in giving her the courage to speak effectively in front of large groups of people.