12 minute read
Class of 2021
READY TO SAIL THEIR OWN SHIPS
For the Class of 2021, senior year was a grand lesson in adaptability and resiliency. These seniors were a class of true leaders, a skillset crucial for their immense success in the face of global turmoil and community reckoning. Head of School Mary Halpin Carter offered a quote by Louisa May Alcott that speaks to the fearless determination of this class: “I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning to sail my own ship.” This class learned their navigational problem solving skills with a community of people who care about them deeply, people who make graduation feel bittersweet.
This senior class also learned about the importance of embracing a moment in the way it exists, rather than wasting that moment by imagining how it could be different. When asked how the pandemic shaped how students will approach their next chapters, the Class of 2021 said they will go after new experiences with gusto, they will try new things and not wait. They will strive not to take things for granted and will make up for lost time because of their deep understanding that life can change in an instant.
On June 5, at 8:30 a.m., graduate Samantha Induni ’21 warmly welcomed her classmates’ families and friends, who, this year, were able to sit together, unmasked, in socially-distanced “pods.” Samy spoke of her class’s unique commitment to “each other, to positive change in [their] communities, and to the betterment of our world.”
Andrew Leblanc ’21 followed Samy as this year’s commencement speaker with a hilarious and emotional story about his personal challenges with his shyness and a childhood speech impediment. Andrew recounted the ways Derryfield challenged him and lifted him from a place of insecurity to a deep confidence in his ability to solve any problem that might come his way. Andrew spoke candidly about the very natural fear that comes during this transition to adulthood and independence, but reminded his classmates that they, of all people, are the most prepared because of what Derryfield has given them.
Katharine Gage ’21 offered her class’s moment of gratitude. She thanked parents, coaches, administrators, staff, and, of course, teachers.
Next, Ruthie Zolla and Christopher Lynch presented the class gift: Mrs. Wall’s Garden, a garden of perennials, including Di’s favorite flowers, planted in the new upper school circle. Diane Wall is, and always has been, so much more than a receptionist. The Class of 2021 wanted to honor the light and joy she brings to the Derryfield community with a beautiful installment for all to enjoy for years to come.
The farewell address was presented by Nicole Christian ’21 who deciphered the meaning of a Derryfield education from that of ordinary schooling. Nicole’s words embodied Derryfield’s mission. “Schooling,” she said, “is just about acquiring facts and skills. Education, on the other hand, is about schooling and the ability to apply that knowledge to serve others.”
As Commencement came to a close, Dr. Carter wished Derryfield’s new alumni her best. “After so many months at home, Class of 2021, you are ready to sail out into the world. Take your talent, your gregariousness, and your sense of community to be dynamic and purposeful members of any community… Speaking on behalf of the Derryfield family, we are proud to call you our own.”
AWARDS
COMMUNITY AWARDS
Eleanor Small: Alumni Award
Christopher Lynch: Mayor's Award
Lucas Gendron: Class of 1994 Award
ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS
Shawna Lesmerises: The Ken Piatt Memorial Award
Julia Hardy ’22: The Matthew L. Young ’88 Scholarship
Ruthie Zolla: The Clifford R. Nyquist Memorial Award
Mary Hodgkins ’23: Henrietta Mesches Memorial Award
Ryan Shi ’23: Richard Crafts Memorial Music Award
ACADEMIC AWARDS
Ruthie Zolla: English
Clarence Chen: Dennis F. Holland Mathematics Award
Nicole Christian: Barbara J. Stahl, Ph.D. Life Science
Award James Zhu: Physical Science
Emmet Pim: STEM X
Emma Ryan: History
Regan O'Brien: Visual Art
Nat Pagliocco: Drama
Cailynn Vanderpool: Music (Vocal)
Lucas Gendron: Music (Instrumental)
Samantha Induni: Latin
Christopher Lynch: Spanish
JUNIOR CLASS AWARDS
Charley Chang ’22: Rensselaer Medal
Anna Induni ’22: The Wellesley Book Award
Matthew Farah ’22: The Harvard Book Award
Mirza Becirovic ’22: The Dartmouth Book Award
HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARDS
Lila Kelsey: The R. Philip Hugny Award
Rylan Morgan: The Ralph J. Scozzafava Award
Frankie Brandt: The William B. Pfeifer Award
Micah Johnson: The Marcus D. Hurlbut Award
ATHLETIC AWARDS
Lucy Licata & Christopher Van Natta: 2021 Lamplighter Athletic Award
Leah Hoey & Andrew Watson: 2021 Scholar-Athlete Awards
SERVICE AWARDS
Katharine Gage, Ellie Small, Allyson Cobery, Lila Kelsey, Samantha Induni, Julia Nees, Nicole Christian, Andrew Watson
COLLEGE PROFILES
Andrew Leblanc
Settling upon MIT was initially a big, scary decision for me, but the process became easier with a bit of research. Crucial in my decision was the wealth of resources I’ll have there. The students, professors, alumni network, labs, and makerspaces are second to none at MIT. Equally important was the culture. At many competitive universities, you’ll find a cut-throat, competitive sort of environment, but no one I’ve spoken to has said such about MIT. Everyone there is in it together, helping to push each other up rather than simply outperform them.
Derryfield was an excellent resource in navigating what is an undoubtedly intimidating process. They started us off early in the spring of our junior year—a time when a lot of high school students aren’t even thinking about college yet. My essay coaching was fantastic in that it was individual, specific, and really honest. It’s a great feeling to have someone just as invested in producing good writing as you are. Finally, Derryfield is encouraging. I wasn’t even going to apply to MIT going into senior year, as I thought it was completely out of my reach. I’m immensely thankful for all of the gentle nudges from my advisors, teachers, and coaches that resulted in the best outcome I could have asked for.
Samantha Induni
I chose Georgetown because of its strength of academics, its core curriculum, and its location. I love the opportunity to take classes across subjects that I might not otherwise have room in my schedule for, like theology or philosophy. I wanted to be in Washington, D.C. because of its history and internship opportunities. I’m looking forward to being able to visit all of the national museums once I’m there! As a student interested in studying science, I’m excited for the opportunity to intern at NASA or the NIH.
My teachers at Derryfield encouraged me to see the nuance in each subject, whether that was the political tension in the Roman Republic or the concept of the distortion of space-time. I loved listening to faculty teach what they were passionate about. During the college application process, my college counselor read through my supplemental essays, and my English teachers helped me draft my Common App essay.
Nat Pagliocco
The college process was both exciting and terrifying at the same time, but Mr. Barnard and the college office helped me contain my nerves, and refine my applications. I knew from day one that I wanted a diverse and big school which is why I will be attending Boston University. Not only did Derryfield help me write and revise my essays and applications, they helped me create them over the last seven years. I knew I was ahead of other applicants simply because Derryfield allowed me to be a part of so many different clubs and activities. I am so grateful to all of my teachers that not only taught me so much, but supported me through this difficult year. I cannot wait to represent Derryfield at BU, and wherever else my life takes me.
Lucas Gendron
I chose Trinity College in Dublin because of the opportunity I will have for a globally driven, culturally distinct, and academically rigorous education at a leading research university in Europe. I will be able to study global business in one of Europe’s business epicenters while having the city serve as a gateway to reaching across the continent. These opportunities are bound to support me in my academic and professional pursuits throughout and beyond the next four years.
Over the last four years, I have grown as a student, athlete, and community member through the supportive and driven environment that Derryfield promotes. Every member of the Derryfield community is celebrated for their individual interests while being encouraged to experience new things. Such encouragement led me to find new passions for investing and international politics which I plan to study next year in college. Throughout the college process, Derryfield’s college counseling office was particularly supportive and informative, catering to my individual needs in applying to both domestic and international schools to ensure I made an informed college decision that suited my needs. Thanks to their help I know I will enter a college community that will support, inspire, and challenge me next year.
Ellie Small
From the start of my college process, I knew that I wanted to be in an urban city at a large university. My love of politics, public policy, social justice, and law drew me towards D.C. I love the rich history of the city and the wealth of knowledge that it holds. GW also has a great political science program and a 4+1 program so that I can complete my Master’s of Public Policy early before heading to law school.
Derryfield allowed me to find who I am in my professional and personal life. DS taught me a strong, and efficient, work ethic, how to lead solutions to complex problems, high-level collaboration, and a commitment to serving others. I felt so fortunate to my advisors, college counselors, and teachers for helping me recognize my strengths and passions into a career plan that I am excited to begin. I am especially thankful for the college essay advisor program at Derryfield, which allowed me to have an assigned English faculty member, the amazing Dr. Hotten-Somers, edit my many essays, supplements, and help me identify the most important parts of myself to write about.
Clarence Chen
I chose the University of Virginia because I am determined to cultivate a robust quantitative background through an undergraduate mathematics major to prepare for my master’s degree in Business Analytics. The sub-major financial mathematics at UVA immediately caught my attention. Beyond the classroom, UVA’s stringent academic atmosphere also appeals to me tremendously. Plus, I have been selected as a member of Echols Scholars, who are granted benefits, including being exempt from the College’s General Education requirements and participating in a range of programming unique to Echols Scholars.
The Derryfield School supported me to succeed in my education and college process both in and out of the classroom. As an international student, I always felt a sense of belonging and support at DS. As for the college process, Ms. Teeters, as my college advisor, provided me with extensive help in my application process. From settling down the list of universities to choosing my college, she was always ready to give me valuable suggestions combined with my situation whenever I was facing a problem.
Julia Nees
I chose to attend Princeton University for three main reasons, the first being that’s where my role model and hero Mrs. Michelle Obama graduated from. The second, of course, has to do with the academic rigor and collection of classes. Princeton has an option for majors to be taken along with concentrations. Having the option to gain a level of mastery in several topics was very appealing to me. The last reason is because of the atmosphere and culture that Princeton promotes. Similar to Derryfield, Princeton has a small town vibe and a tight knit community, which is exactly what I was looking for!
Derryfield was such a great support through my four years of high school and the college process. DS is truly unique when it comes to student support and teacher support. Throughout our time at DS, my friends and I always felt comfortable getting extra help or emailing a teacher when we were having trouble learning a concept. DS also greatly helped me throughout my college process, which was anything but traditional. Quick shoutout to the wonderful Jill Teeters and Dr. Diane Hotten-Sommers, because without their help and guidance I would not be where I am today!
Cailynn Vanderpool
I chose Syracuse because of the welcoming community I experienced every time I visited. Secondly, I found an amazing program that fit my interests and goals exactly. The Bandier Program has a focus on music business and still offers the opportunity to perform for a tight knit group of like minded individuals! I feel so welcome in this community and even though it was over Zoom, the moment I met the program director I knew this was the place for me!
Through the resources Derryfield provided I felt fully supported in all of my academic endeavors. From the lovely community of supportive students and friends to the caring teachers who strive to help students achieve their personal goals. Wherever you turn there’s always a smiling face to offer you a helping hand. Throughout my entire college process, Mrs. Teeters was very supportive and continuously checked in with me and the other students to see what we could need help with.
