Daring to Dream Big magazine
CLASS OF 2024
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Commencement
Harvey’s hilltop campus buzzed with joy and excitement June 6 as faculty, family, and friends of the Class of 2024 celebrated the Upper School commencement of 71 seniors who are now ready to embark on the next leg of their life’s journey.
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8th Grade Moving Up
The spring season, featuring five championship trophies and several near misses, capped off another terrific 2023-24 athletic schedule for Harvey varsity sports. 2
With their family, friends, faculty, and staff looking on, 34 Harvey eighth graders turned a page June 5, to a new chapter in their educational journey at the Eighth Grade Moving Up Ceremony celebrating their last day as middle schoolers.
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Commencement Dinner
In keeping with a longtime school tradition, the graduating seniors joined their families, the administration, and faculty for a pre-commencement sit-down dinner — a special time of joyous reflection and the sharing of some final hours as Harvey students on the cusp of commencement.
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Tribute to Dale Osborne
Friends and colleagues share their recollections as Harvey says goodbye and good luck to longtime Evarts Rink assistant director Dale Osborne who retired in June after a remarkable 44 years of dedication and service to the school.
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Senior Breakfast
A young alum returns to Harvey to address the Class of 2024 at the traditional Senior Breakfast, offering congratulations and a big helping of inspiration, exhorting the graduates to pursue their dreams while considering the type of legacy they want to leave behind.
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Spring Sports Wrap
magazine
The Harvey School
260 Jay Street, Katonah, NY 10536 harveyschool.org // (914) 232-3161 kgrazia@harveyschool.org
HEAD OF SCHOOL
William J. Knauer
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Karen Grazia
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Chris Del Campo
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Sarah Parker
CONTRIBUTORS
Raizy Akrongold ’24, Meg Booth, Dr. Brendan Byrne, Alexandra Carrozza, John DePalma ’01, Wesley Elkind ’24, Jessica Falcon, Debra Forte, Giselle Garcia ’19, Iliana Hellinger ’24, Greg Janos ’98, William Knauer, Ray Lacen, Phil Lazzaro, Joanne Lombardi, Julian Marin ’24, Austin Morgan, Bruce Osborne, Denise Smith, Dr. Nicole Wright ’05
CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Gabe Palacio Photography
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Julie Ades Richter Photography Abby Hassett ’13
DESIGN
Good Design, LLC, gooddesignusa.com
PRINTING
J.S. McCarthy Printers, jsmccarthy.com
MISSION STATEMENT
Our purpose is to prepare and inspire students to become independent, adventurous thinkers and engaged, compassionate citizens in courageous pursuit of knowledge and truth.
CORE VALUES
» Passion for learning
» Respect » Integrity
» Determination » Excellence
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS
The Harvey School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
“We Are Here, We Made It!”
Class of 2024 Commencement
Seventy-one members of the Harvey Class of 2024 donned caps and gowns June 6, ready to cross the stage, receive their diplomas, and move their tassels from right to left to signify they are now graduates. Family, friends, administration, trustees, faculty, and staff gathered in the Fenstermacher Athletic Center on the Harvey campus to recognize the achievements of the graduates and help mark this significant milestone in every student’s educational journey.
“Today is a day of celebration, reflection, and anticipation,” Head of School Bill Knauer said. “In your time at Harvey, you have experienced spectacular successes and overcome daunting challenges. You have grown and evolved and progressed in ways that are truly inspiring. Today, we mark the end of one chapter and the beginning of another,” he said. “May your journey be filled with courage, discovery, and joy.”
The Upper School Chorus sang “The StarSpangled Banner” in perfect harmony. A short time later, Harvey Chorus seniors Chloé Ramsey Lavoie, Iva Hadži-Mihailović, and Carina Weksel sang a heartfelt rendition of “No One Is Alone” by Stephen Sondheim.
Co-valedictorians Iliana Hellinger and Wesley Elkind, the top scholars of the Class of 2024, each stood at the podium to share their thoughts and feelings with their fellow classmates.
“We have overcome many obstacles, COVID and online learning,” said Iliana. “We persevered, we are here, we made it! We learned to handle hard better.” She continued, “Let us never lose sight of our dreams and aspirations. And let us always strive to make a positive difference in the world.”
Wesley offered his fellow graduates his advice on how the Class of 2024 should approach life after Harvey. He said, “Life is what you make of it. Take those risks, roll with the punches … Stand tall, be proud of yourself, and I hope you all live a life that is fulfilling and successful,” he said, adding, “We can do difficult things, as we have proven in these last four years, and I cannot wait to see what we accomplish in the future.”
Dr. Nicole Wright ’05, an award-winning violinist, spoke to the graduates about leaving their “imprint on the world.” She said, “When you’re passionate, you’re always eager to learn and grow. You’ll take on new challenges, learn more about yourself, and gain the confidence to handle tough times.” Dr. Wright encouraged the graduates not to be deterred by rejection and to keep striving for what excites them in life. “My hope is to encourage you to use this next chapter of your life as a stepping stone toward leaving your mark,” she said, adding, “You have a choice of how you want to start your journey to leave your dent in the world.”
Seniors were recognized for awards in academics, the arts, and athletics by Head of Upper School Phil Lazzaro. Then, the moment came for the seniors to receive their diplomas from school leaders Mr. Lazzaro, Board Trustee Jerri-Lynn Galgano, Assistant Head of Upper School Beth Visintainer, and Mr. Knauer. The Class of 2024 then rose to their feet to shift the tassels on their caps to the left, symbolizing they are indeed graduates of The Harvey School. With a loud cheer, they then tossed their caps high into the air in celebration. The graduates proceeded outside to the walkway to Mennen Library to greet their teachers, a moving tradition that captures their journey from being students to becoming beloved Harvey alumni.
Congratulations, Harvey Class of 2024! Never stop being your very best in all you do!
Opening. The Class of 2024 toss their caps into the air to celebrate their graduation. // 1. The Harvey Upper School Chorus performs at Commencement. // 2. The graduates honor tradition by walking past Harvey faculty and staff following their graduation. //
3. Senior faculty members Dianne Mahony and Bruce Osborne lead the procession of faculty and staff at Commencement. //
4. Director of International Programs Alex Lindquist with graduate Hayden Zhang ’24
Your Future Is
Bright!
Head of School William J. Knauer
Seniors … It is a pleasure to be a part of this very special morning for all of you.
Today is a day of celebration, reflection, and anticipation. As I stand here before you on this special day, I feel great pride in all you have achieved.
In your time at Harvey, you have experienced spectacular successes and overcome daunting challenges. You have grown and evolved and progressed in ways that are truly inspiring. Today, we mark the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
Author William Faulkner once wrote, “You cannot swim for new horizons until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.”
Seniors, for the past few years, The Harvey School has been your shore. It has been a place of learning, friendship, and support. You have thrived on this campus, nurtured by the guidance of your teachers and the love of your families.
But now, it is time to set off toward new horizons. For growth, progress, and discovery require us to venture beyond the familiar and embrace the unknown.
Losing sight of the shore requires courage. It demands that you let go of the safety and certainty you have known and move boldly toward the future. This is not about being fearless; rather, it is about acknowledging your fears and choosing to move forward in spite of them. It is about trusting in yourselves and your abilities, and believing in the limitless possibilities that lie ahead.
As you prepare to leave this Harvey shore, remember that the journey will not always be smooth or easy. There will be storms and rough seas, moments of doubt and uncertainty. But it is precisely in these moments that your preparation will serve you — and your true character will shine through.
The education you have received here has not only equipped you with knowledge but also with resilience, adaptability, and perseverance. And I hope that we have also instilled in you a sense of openness and wonder that has prepared you to see the beauty and promise of each new destination.
To our families, thank you for being the unwavering support that has anchored
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our students. Your love and encouragement have laid the foundation upon which they have built their dreams.
To the faculty and staff, thank you for being the guiding lights, inspiring our students to reach their fullest potential and preparing them for the journey ahead.
And to you, our graduating seniors, as you stand on the threshold of this new adventure, carry with you the lessons learned and the memories lived. Embrace the unknown
with confidence, knowing that you have the strength and determination to overcome any obstacle. Dare to dream big, take risks, and trust that it will be OK to lose sight of the shore.
Your future is bright, filled with endless possibilities. As you move toward new horizons, remember that you are not alone. You are part of this community, a community that believes in you, supports you, and celebrates your every success.
May your journey be filled with courage, discovery, and joy.
1. Graduates Gabe Duran, Christophe Conoscente, Riley D’Onofrio, Spencer Hindle, and Theo Klagsbrun // 2. Angelica Salazar ’24 with her family // 3. Graduates Tracy Wang, Riannah Wallach, and Jaylani Teixeira // 4. Head of School William J. Knauer addresses the Class of 2024. // 5. Graduates Spencer Hindle and Theo Klagsbrun with Harvey faculty Rick Price // 6. Harvey seniors begin their procession into Commencement. //
7. Harvey Class of 2024 // 8. Katie McCulloch ’24 with family // 9. Ian Bryant ’24 with his family // 10. Raizy Akrongold ’24 with family
Imprint the World
WithYour Mark
Commencement Speaker
Dr. Nicole Wright ’05
When you’re passionate, you’re always eager to learn and grow. You’ll take on new challenges, learn more about yourself, and gain the confidence to handle tough times.
Ladies and gentlemen, respected faculty, proud parents, and, most importantly, the extraordinary Class of 2024. Today, we gather here to celebrate a remarkable group of individuals. This isn’t just any ceremony; this is a milestone that marks a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and countless moments that have shaped you into the exceptional individuals we see before us today. Let’s take a moment to soak this in because every late-night study session and every challenge you have overcome has brought you to this final moment where you can say you’ve done it. You should be incredibly proud. In this time, you have shown resilience, intelligence, and an unstoppable spirit. You have experienced a lot and learned even more. Now, it is time to take all the knowledge you have gained and reflect. How can you imprint the world with your mark? It is no secret. You are the future. Your unique talents are exactly what the world needs to run smoother and become a better place.
So how can you leave your mark on society? Well, you want to strive to have good morals, know yourself so well that when hard times arise you can be resilient and reject rejection when necessary; and you want to expect more from yourself to raise the bar for your future. Take me, for example. I leave my imprint through music. I use my playing to bring out emotions in people, helping them relax and enjoy themselves after a long week. Teaching music is my passion. It also aids in the development of one’s learning and provides a creative outlet. By sharing my knowledge, I help ensure music continues for generations after me,
which is why my goal as a teacher is to help my students become BETTER than me.
But it hasn’t been easy for me. There were countless days when I stayed up for hours on end practicing until my arms were sore and my fingers would lock up. My mother even took me to the doctor who announced I had tendinitis from practicing so much. I recall how I’ve overcome these frustrations so that I can teach my students to their full potential. So how can you do this, leave your mark? Well, you can use the resources and opportunities in college to find your purpose. Ask yourself what you love to do, what sparks your curiosity, and what you can do for hours without getting tired. These questions will help you identify your passions, and since a large portion of your life is work, pointing your energy into something you care about can help drive your success.
When you’re passionate, you’re always eager to learn and grow. You’ll take on new challenges, learn more about yourself, and gain the confidence to handle tough times. Remember, sometimes rejection isn’t always about you — it can also be about the other person as well. So, you will need to have the confidence to reject rejection when necessary. For example, J.K. Rowling’s first Harry Potter book was rejected by 12 publishers. Now, CNBC estimates she’s earned over a billion dollars from book sales alone. She didn’t let rejection stop her, and neither should you. Even if things do not go according to plan, there is still value in seeing it through. While in my doctorate program chapters and chapters of my dissertation would be rejected. I was under so much stress I gained almost
20 pounds, began to lose hair, and I would cry for countless hours, but I did not let their rejection determine my future. I kept trying until my dissertation was accepted. I now have been asked to present and give speeches at universities such as NYU and the University of Amherst Massachusetts. If I had not persevered, I would not be in front of you today to express that success is achievable within all of us. We cannot wait for the perfect moment or person to join us in our future endeavors because there is no perfect moment and tomorrow is not promised.
While striving to make your mark, continually work to expect more from yourself. Incorporate daily habits that improve you by 1% each day. By the end of the year, you could be 37 times better. Now 37 times better is not 37% better it is 3700% better due to exponential growth because our actions, often driven by habits, define us. This is because about half of the things we do throughout our day are motivated by habits. So even though small habits might not seem like they make a big difference in your day, they implement big changes in your life. Use your time in college to focus on what interests you, create goals, and break them down into daily actionable steps, helping you achieve your goals and improve yourself. James Clear, the author of “Atomic Habits,” explains this much better than me, so I highly suggest you read his book before entering college. He states in his book that your identity is made up of your actions. You are defined by what you do.
For example, in college, I always wanted to perform the national anthem as a soloist. So, the actionable step I made daily to help my goal become attainable was to practice every day. I practiced improving my technique and playing. Once I learned the national anthem, I went down
to the coach’s office to audition for the opportunity, and by senior year I performed the national anthem for our college basketball team. Fast forward to now, I had that same goal, but this time I wanted to perform my arrangement of the national anthem for the NBA. So, my actionable steps were again practicing every day, working on my arrangement, and sharing videos of me playing the arrangement so that I was always ready. And it worked! Last week I was asked to perform the national anthem at the WNBA for the Washington Mystics Women Game Changerthemed game versus the Atlanta Dream. Another example of this was my goal to begin arranging music for videos and commercials. Every day before teaching or my gig I would add time to my practice to compose. I would then share my arrangements online for the public and companies to view. After seeing my work online, the Genesis car company reached out to me to compose and play the composition I composed for the video they made with W magazine to feature the craftsmanship of Ashlyn, New York, and their fully electrified GV70 SUV.
As I share this speech with you today my hope is to encourage you to use this next chapter of your life as a stepping stone toward leaving your mark. With all the programs and opportunities offered in college it is the perfect place to do this. But it will pass you by in the blink of an eye, so in that time, you have a choice of how you want to start your journey to leave your dent in the world! Congratulations, Class of 2024. I cannot wait to see how you write this next chapter of your life!
1. Commencement speaker Dr. Nicole Wright ’05 // 2. Łukasz Daszczyński ’24 with family // 3. Helena Kasarda ’24 and Jaylani Teixeira ’24 // 4. Seniors Chloé Ramsey Lavoie, Carina Weksel, and Iva Hadži-Mihailović perform at Commencement. // 5. Ava Lazaroff ’24 surrounded by family // 6. Head of Upper School Phil Lazzaro, Dr. Nicole Wright ’05, and Head of School William J. Knauer
the World We Will Conquer
Co-Valedictorian Speech
By Iliana Hellinger ’24
Good Morning ladies and gentlemen, esteemed faculty, proud parents, and, most importantly, the graduating Class of 2024.
I have been at The Harvey School since the sixth grade. Over the years I have explored many extracurriculars at Harvey. I have been involved in theater productions and chorus concerts, gave tours as a student ambassador, was a member of the athletic leadership program, and participated in an array of athletics.
It was at Harvey that I discovered my two passions: volleyball and engineering
In middle school, I was nominated by my eighth grade teacher to participate in a summer program to study the field of engineering at Georgia Tech. It was there that I was introduced
to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). However, because of COVID, I wasn’t able to participate until summer at the end of ninth grade.
Up until my senior year, I spent each summer studying a field in STEM: – Veterinary Medicine @ UPENN – Field of Medicine @ Tufts
Each program highlighted passions for STEM, but math and the mechanics of how things are made to work continued to fascinate me.
I thought to myself, how am I going to explore this passion at Harvey?
True story:
It was around 11 a.m. I was fast asleep. My phone rang. The caller ID was my mom. I answered and heard: “Hello, Hellinger.”
Stunne d, I paused. Instead of hearing my mom’s voice, I hear LZ, “You should join the robotics program.”
“No,” I protested.
“ Why not?” he asked.
“I just don’t want to.”
But after a couple of minutes of going back and forth and a bit of convincing, I ended the conversation with an “I’ll think about it.”
Although, I didn’t really get to think about it because he enrolled me in the class anyway!
But that “I’ll think about it” turned out to be the best decision because I met my mentor Mr. Kelly.
Mr. Kelly was not only my robotics teacher sophomore year but he went on to be my AP Physics teacher in junior year, and my role model senior year.
We worked on my Senior Bridge Project together where I learned CAD (computer aided design) and how to use a wazer and a CNC machine to bring my designs to life.
The knowledge I gained in robotics and through my Senior Bridge project provided me with the knowledge, experience, and opportunity to become a recipient of the Fellows Engineering Scholarship Program at Elon University in which I will be given the opportunity to study abroad to solve engineering problems on a global perspective.
And for that, I am truly humbled.
We all know pursuing an outside passion, after the long hours at Harvey, can be challenging.
I starte d playing on a travel volleyball team, outside and in addition to Harvey, since seventh grade. The hours were demanding, tedious, tiring, and rewarding.
Attending school from 8-3, sports from 3-5, and practice for my travel team, there were school nights when I wouldn’t get home until 10 or 11 p.m. Many of us know the struggle. It is hard and it is real. Oftentimes, life’s responsibilities are challenging enough in an era in which we are expected to be perfect.
My travel volleyball coach once told me “Life doesn’t get easier; you learn to handle hard better.”
That is my message to all of you here.
Today marks a significant milestone in our lives. As we gather here to celebrate our high school graduation, we stand at the threshold of a new beginning, filled with endless possibilities and opportunities.
I’m not sure how many of you are aware, but we are Gen Z. The “Z” stands for ZOOMER — the first generation known to ‘zoom the internet.’
And as such, we have overcome many obstacles, especially COVID and online learning. We persevered, we are here, we made it! We learned to handle hard better! I know for many of us, it wasn’t easy, But we did it!
As we reflect on our time here, let us remember the lessons we have learned both inside and outside the classroom. Let us cherish the memories we have created together and carry them with us as we embark on the next chapter in our lives. But, let us also recognize that the future holds uncertainties and obstacles. It is up to us to face them with courage, resilience, and determination.
Let us never lose sight of our dreams and aspirations, and let us always strive to make a positive difference in the world.
My fellow graduates, as we bid farewell to high school, let us embrace the challenges, seize opportunities, dare to dream big, and learn to handle hard better.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024 for today we celebrate our achievements, but tomorrow, we will conquer the world!
Last, but not least, I would like to thank my parents, my brothers, my grandparents, my friends, and all the teachers who have supported me over the years. It is because of you that I continue to learn how to handle hard better! Thank You!
1. Co-valedictorian Iliana Hellinger ’24 addresses her classmates. // 2. Isaac Greenwald, Olaf Gorski, and Dylan Gueli are ready to graduate. // 3. Graduates Iliana Hellinger, Riannah Wallach, and Phoebe Lichtman with their moms // 4. Julian Marin ’24 surrounded by family // 5. Ian Bryant ’24 with Harvey faculty Rob Griffin and Kyle Delaney // 6. It’s a thumbs up from Matthew Rankin ’24 and Chloé Ramsey Lavoie ’24. // 7. Lance Goodnow ’24 with his parents
We Can Do
Difficult Things
Co-Valedictorian Speech
By Wesley Elkind ’24
1. Co-valedictorian Wesley Elkind ’24 addresses his classmates. // 2. It’s time to graduate! // 3. Angelia (Yi) Lu ’24 with her family // 4. Theo Klagsbrun ’24 with his parents and brother Eli Klagsbrun ’26 // 5. New graduates Joseph Altman and Wesley Elkind // 6. Upper School Dean of Students Ricky Forde, McKensi Forde ’24, Peyton Forde ’26, and Keisha-Lue Forde // 7. Hudson Krasne, Lyndsey Koch, Theo Klagsbrun, and Samuel Kiamie are excited to graduate.
Thank you, Chair Walker, Mr. Knauer, faculty, parents, friends, teammates, and the Class of 2024. My presence up here today serves as a testament to the fantastic support network I have had over the years, especially throughout my school journey. I first and foremost want to thank my parents and grandparents for supporting me throughout these challenging years. Raising me definitely was not easy, and putting up with me must have been something. I want to say thank you to Ms. Harris for helping me smoothly enter this community. I also want to extend my gratitude to Mr. Lazzaro and Mr. Morse who have pushed me to be my best and have given me many opportunities to learn and succeed, both academically and personally. Finally, I want to extend a thank you to my coach, Mr. Scarsella,
who has pushed me to be a better athlete and more understanding and patient person. If there is anything I could say about our high school experience, it was one of scary firsts. Our class was faced with new stressors, anything but typical compared with the high school of times past. Our transition into high school was extremely difficult and interrupted by the changing world during the pandemic. Rather than a year with awkward socialization and messing around as most first-years do, we were greeted with the fluorescent glow of the computer and choked by the awkwardness of both being a teenager, wearing a mask, and maintaining the six feet of social distance. In addition, we simultaneously had to navigate the complicated landscape of social media. If you think high school was hard in the past, trust
me, Instagram and Snapchat don’t make it any easier. In the wake of all of these challenges — the pandemic, lack of social opportunities, a difficult college process, and chaos in general, the Class of 2024 has persevered and emerged on the other side as stronger and more enlightened young adults. Zoom, hybrid learning, puberty, an eclipse, and even an in-school earthquake and we are still here. These events have forced us to adapt and learn to deal with uncomfortable situations. Through these trying times we have learned a few significant lessons that are important to remember as we venture into our futures.
First, b e yourself. We have spent these past four years trying to come to terms with who we are and the people we want to be. If high school taught us anything, it is this: don’t pretend to be someone you are not. Be yourself, know your strengths, weaknesses, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from those around you. Everyone has a place in the world, and you can’t find it if you aren’t true to yourself.
Se cond, be flexible. I’m definitely still working on this one. This high school experience has been anything but the normal one, but we adapted. This was with the help of our families, or whoever you were forced to spend way too much time with during quarantine. With the help of a support network, I am able to be more flexible, or at least try.
Third, do not be afraid to take a calculated risk. Calculated, not a random senior skip day with terrible weather. I’m not saying to go crazy, but life isn’t fun if you don’t take chances. Give that class a shot, try to meet new people, put yourself out there.
Finally, and most important, realize that the world does not owe you anything. It took me quite a while to realize it. In terms you might’ve learned in stats, each day is an independent trial that has no effect on the next. Just because you had a bad day yesterday doesn’t mean you are due for a good one. Life is what you make of it. Take those risks, roll with the punches. Don’t be afraid to ask that person for their number. They might say no but hey, it is what it is. Stand tall, be proud of yourself, and I hope you all live a life that is fulfilling and successful. As the late Jerry Garcia wisely said, “just keep truckin’.” As you drive forward on this road called life, don’t let a few bumps or curvy roads stop you from reaching your destination. We all have breakdowns and rest stops, but in the end, we get back on the road. We can do difficult things, as we have proven in these last four years, and I cannot wait to see what we accomplish in the future. I have no doubt that all of us will succeed in life. Regardless of the obstacles we face, just keep truckin’. Thank you.
Be yourself, know your strengths, weaknesses, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from those around you. Everyone has a place in the world, and you can’t find it if you aren’t true to yourself.
Awards & Honors
Head of School’s Prize // Created and endowed by the Board of Trustees, the award is inscribed annually with the name of the student who, in the view of the Head of School, has put forth the greatest effort in any aspect of their life at school:
The Head of Upper School’s Award // Given annually to the student, who, in the view of the Head of Upper School, has supported the aims and mission of The Harvey School: Angela Lu & Julian Marin
//
Harry A. Dawe History Prize // History Prize for excellence in history is named in honor of Mr. Dawe who served as headmaster of The Harvey School for 15 years: Kayla Lichtenstein (European), Carina Weksel (Economics), & Alexa Williams
Mathematics Prize // For excellence in mathematics: Hayden Zhang
Founders Honor Cup // The Upper School’s highest award is presented by the Carter family in memory of Dr. and Mrs. Herbert Swift Carter, founders of The Harvey School, and their son, Herbert Swift Carter, Jr., Class of 1919. Given to the student who is voted by the faculty to have contributed the most to the spirit and aims of the school: Iliana Hellinger
Technology Prize // For excellence in technology:
Lindsley Loring Loyalty Award // Created and endowed by Mrs. Lindsley Loring in memory of her husband, the award is inscribed annually with the name of the student who is voted by the faculty to have shown the greatest loyalty in their school relations during the year: Kathleen McCulloch
Thompson Achievement Award // Given by Mr. and Mrs. Calvin A. Thompson, parents of Alexis ’82 and Thaddeus ’87, and inscribed annually with the name of the student who is voted by the faculty to have made the greatest all-around improvement: Hayden Zhang
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Harvey Survivors
These Class of 2024 seniors attended Harvey all seven years — Grades 6 through 12. We affectionately call them — Harvey Survivors.
Like Mother Harvey Alums Like Daughter
When Shelby McCaine ’24 flipped the tassels of the graduation cap from right to left at the conclusion of the June 6 commencement ceremony, she not only officially entered the esteemed ranks of Harvey alumni but joined her mother, Stephanie McCaine ’87, in that special constituency within the school community.
“It fe els pretty good to know that my mother and I are now both part of the Harvey alumni community,” said Shelby, who started in the Middle School in sixth grade in her mother’s first year working in the school’s admissions office. “Most kids and their parents don’t get to share that kind of experience,” Shelby said. Mother and daughter had also attended the same elementary school.
“Shelby and I have a very close relationship in which we share many traits, interests, and memories,” Stephanie said, adding, “Choosing to raise her in the same town I grew up in probably made some of this inevitable; however, sharing this particular history is especially meaningful and fills me with immense pride and joy.”
Reflecting on her experience at Harvey, Shelby is proud that she grew both as a student and as an athlete. “Harvey taught me how to get around the challenges I would face in the classroom and how to do my best to succeed,” Shelby shared. She also said she grew as an athlete on the lacrosse field as well, becoming so adroit at making saves as the team’s goalkeeper that she earned the team’s MVP-Defense Award in sophomore year. “I became a much better goalie than I ever imagined, and that gave me confidence that I can do hard things,” said Shelby, whose personal growth was duly recognized at commencement when she was awarded the Class of 2024’s Head of School’s Prize, as a graduate who put forth the greatest effort in any aspect of campus life. It was a special moment for both Shelby and Stephanie, who said, “I’m especially proud of Shelby’s personal integrity, academic growth, and commitment to her music all of which were cultivated at Harvey.”
As one of the first girls to be admitted into Harvey, and the first Black female, Stephanie was a true trailblazer, not only for the girls who would come to Harvey after her but for girls of color in particular. For Stephanie, seeing her daughter graduate from Harvey was profoundly consequential. “As an African American family,
this milestone not only bears personal meaning but is also symbolic of overcoming historical barriers to education and advancing generational progress,” Stephanie shared.
In c omparing Shelby’s Harvey years to her own in the 1980s, Stephanie notes some stark differences. “Harvey today is more than twice the size it was during my time, significantly more diverse, and offers a broader range of academic and extracurricular options,” said Stephanie, who has decided to move on from Harvey as the school’s associate director of admissions to pursue other interests. She is very happy that one important aspect of Harvey has remained constant during the last 40 years … the quality of the school’s educational experience. “Shelby, like me, has benefited from exceptional teachers who have also served as coaches and mentors, deeply invested in her intellectual and personal growth.”
In a few short weeks Shelby will be going off to study music at Skidmore College, where, you guessed it, her mother had gone to earn a degree in psychology. But Shelby said she chose
Skidmore on her own, feeling no pressure to follow in her mother’s footsteps, because she became “hooked” on the college in Saratoga Springs, New York, during a visit from the school’s representative.
The thought of Shelby’s going off to Stephanie’s college alma mater in the fall prompted her to reflect deeply on the mother and daughter’s shared experiences and journey. “Many people have suggested that Shelby is ‘Stephanie 2.0’, but there’s no doubt in my mind that she is truly an original, “ Stephanie said, humbly adding, “Shelby has already surpassed me in many ways, and her achievements in the classroom, on the field, and musically are uniquely her own.”
Shelby, who has shared her exceptional musical talents with the school community as a member of both the Harvey School Band and the After-School Rock Band, is a vocalist and plays keyboard, the drums, bass guitar, and electric guitar. At Skidmore, Shelby will pursue a career in music, a path, this time, much different from that of her trailblazer mother.
It feels pretty good to know that my mother and I are now both part of the Harvey alumni community. Most kids and their parents don’t get to share that kind of experience.”
1. Shelby McCaine ’24 with her father, Robin, and mother, Stephanie McCaine ’87 // 2. Stephanie McCaine ’87 is a proud alumna of Skidmore College, where daughter Shelby ’24 will attend this fall. // 3. Shelby receives her diploma from Head of Upper School Phil Lazzaro.
Let Your Determination Be Your Guide Commencement Dinner Student Speech
By Julian Marin ’24
Good Evening, Faculty, Family, Friends, and fellow Graduates. When I was asked to deliver a speech for tonight, many ideas and possible topics raced through my mind. After much thought, I came back to one theme to talk about tonight — the idea of determination. Over the past four years, like it or not, we have all, at times, learned the value of determination. Whether wanting to score a try in a close rugby match, outworking defenders to score a highlight goal, or working hard in the One Acts to be sure your lines were memorized and stage directions were on point. No matter the story or event, we were all determined since our arrivals to Harvey to make a change.
Like in life, there are rarely easy ways to succeed in sports, arts, and performing arts. It is filled with difficulties, trials, and failures.
However, our determination provides us with the courage to confront these obstacles head-on and go past them. When was the last time you played a game or a match and felt like the time was running out, your lungs were burning, your muscles were hurting, and you wanted it to stop? Yet, you didn’t. Because you were committed to giving it everything you had to the very end, you never stopped trying and pushing.
What defines the great from the excellent is this constant determination, this refusal to relax under pressure or give up. It’s what drives athletes to make amazing achievements, shattering records and exceeding their personal bests. The motivation for completing an extra lap, set, or putting the final details onto your painting is determination. Remember that while skill gets you into the game, perseverance is what gets you the win. Determination drives you to train early in the morning and sharpen your abilities while others take it easy. Determination is what enables you to overcome adversity, grow from your errors, and return stronger. However, we must remember that determination is not limited to sports. You’ll find great use for it in every aspect of life. Whether your goal is to succeed academically,
express yourself artistically, or launch your own business, what will get you there is a determined drive to achieve your goals. Let your determination be your guide, your motivator, and your companion on the journey to success.
As we stand on the beginning of the future, it’s natural to reflect on the past. Our time here has been filled with challenges and success, late-night study sessions for AP’s, and unforgettable memories with friends. Each of us has our unique story of how we got here, but today, we share a common chapter as we graduate.
Look around you, your teachers, your family, your friends — they have all dedicated their time and effort to support you. As you celebrate this milestone, take a moment to thank them, for they are ready to watch you grow as a person and make them proud. Your endless determination has brought you here, and it will lead you to even bigger accomplishments. The future is yours to shape. I only wish you the best and can’t wait to see you grow. And with that being said, I would like to congratulate the Class of 2024 on our hard work. Thank You.
Senior Awards
Val’s Pal’s Foundation Scholarship in memory of Stephen Saldutti // Jack Curley
The New York State Comptroller’s Student Achievement Award // Samuel Kiamie & Lyndsey Koch
1. Commencement Dinner
student speaker Julian Marin ’24 // 2. Fernanda Alexandre and Theo Klagsbrun // 3. Ava Lazaroff, McKensi Forde, and Shelby McCaine at Commencement Dinner // 4. Olaf Gorski with his parents // 5. Ricky Forde with seniors Luke McCarthy and Edwin Sanchez // 6. Gabriella Bonilla with her parents // 7. Senior Class Gift presented by Director of the Harvey Fund Andrew Jamieson ’09, and senior parents Ashley Foote, Linda Holden Bryant, and Valerie Nelson // 8. Seniors Hudson Zamacona, Eliza Morris, and Lance Goodnow
Peter Sorio ’24 Appointed to U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
On May 14, the Harvey School held a presentation in the Fenstermacher Athletic Center to honor and celebrate senior Peter Sorio’s appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Lieutenant Commander Joe Becker, USMS, presented the certificate of appointment in the presence of Peter’s family, friends, and Harvey administrators.
Peter is one of 275 students of approximately 1,400 applicants who were appointed to the USMMA this spring. Candidates who wish to become midshipmen must satisfy rigorous academic and physical requirements, pass the U.S. government’s safety clearance, and receive the endorsement of a U.S. representative or senator. During the rigorous application process, Peter went above and beyond, receiving nominations from three New York elected officials, Senator Chuck Schumer, Congressman Nick LaLota, and Congressman Pat Ryan. Peter is the first applicant and first appointee from the Harvey School to the USMMA.
Cavalier Award
The Cavalier Award is underwritten by the Harvey Parent Association, and is given to the students and faculty who best embody the values code of The Harvey School. They are individuals who demonstrate a passion for learning, respect and treat everyone with dignity and appreciation, have a deep sense of integrity, have a dynamic balance in lifestyle choices, find joy in learning and life, and strive for excellence.
This year’s winners are 2024 graduates Luke McCarthy and Riannah Wallach; eighth grader Vivienne Stoller; and faculty recipients Greg Janos ’98 and Michelle Morris.
Speech & Poetry Awards
Wells Speech Cup // Given to the school in 1973 by Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Wells, the award goes to the winner of the annual Wells Speech Contest: Eli Klagsbrun ’25
Matthew Preston ’65 Poetry Recitation // Awarded to the student who is judged to be the winner of the annual Matthew Preston ’65 Poetry Recitation Contest. This award was given to the school in 1977 by the Preston family: Sienna Colgan ’26
By Jessica Falcon
Always Push Forward
Commencement Dinner Faculty Speaker
Good evening Senior Class of 2024. It has been a pleasure to have the opportunity to teach many of you. Teaching seniors is unique. Witnessing all of you on the verge of the giant leap into adulthood and higher education is fascinating. While growing up, I denied the notion of becoming a teacher and eventually decided on it my sophomore year in college. My plan was to teach abroad and travel the world, but miraculously I met my husband, and my trajectory changed.
You will find your own way in life and it may not be the conventional way, but always push forward. In all of my classes, skills were present that cannot always be measured in an academic setting. Specialize in the skills that come easy to you.
Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. Do not pass up opportunities. Explore, work hard, and appreciate the experiences that come your way. Ultimately we all have the choice of whether or not we will enjoy the day. This is your life and your choices will determine the next option that will come your way. Two weeks ago, when you all dedicated the yearbook to me, personally it was a very sad time with the passing of my grandmother, but you all always seem to know how to make me smile with a good joke or story. Stories make the world an interesting place. The Harvey School is no exception.
Rachel Dickey. I will always remember you and your Starbucks drink as you were working efficiently to conquer an economic concept. Others may have teased you on your habit, but I admire your ability to have an opinion and stick to it no matter what others may say. Please do not change as we need strong intelligent women in our workforce.
Raizy Ackrongold. I adored watching your interest in a topic and how to monetize it in the future. Others recognize your vision. Use your vision to bring about great productivity and efficiency in the marketplace.
La nce Goodnow. While in the past you may not have enjoyed school, you were able to find a subject that has captured your interest. Logic and rationality are crucial skills that you have. Continue to use them daily.
Hudson Krasne. You surprised us all with your Laundromat on Wheels project last year. While working on our paper prototype you tried to draw, and could not. Then you tried to make the vehicle out of clay and could not. But one day you entered class and said, “I know what I am going to do for my advertisement.” 30 minutes later, you created one of the most memorable infomercial-style commercials I have ever seen. Keep your sense of humor and I am convinced that you could sell just about anything to anyone. Your ability to persevere will be remembered.
Micha el Sorio. You worked tirelessly last year to understand Macroeconomics. I can still picture you getting to class early, taking out your super neat notes you took the night before, and ready to learn. Class after class, you worked and worked. You were never satisfied with your test grade, but still grew as a student and continued working. I don’t even think you were satisfied with your AP score, but I was so proud of you. Your dedication, commitment, and work ethic will be greatly rewarded in the future.
Fernanda Alexandre. I was amazed to find out that you were playing softball just to try something new. Your bravery and continuous work on your athletic ability combined with intellect can be seen by anyone. You have a quiet power that others follow and you will probably lead the world in some fashion in the future.
I c ould go on and on about each of you. Everyone here has skills that the world needs. Just watch others and you will notice the knowledge they carry.
You all now have the opportunity to continue to do well in the world. Work hard and have fun! Congratulations to you all!
Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. Do not pass up opportunities. Explore, work hard, and appreciate the experiences that come your way.
Class of 2024
Matriculations
Bates College
Bentley University
Bryn Mawr College
California State University East Bay
California State University Long Beach
Central Connecticut State University
College of Charleston
College of the Holy Cross
Cornell University
Drexel University
Elon University
Fairfield University
Hampden-Sydney College
Hobart & William Smith
Hong Kong Metropolitan University
Howest University of Applied Sciences
James Madison University
Lafayette College
Lehigh University
Loyola Marymount University
Lynn University
Marist College
McGill University
Mercy University
Northeastern University
New York University
Pennsylvania State University
Post University
Providence College
Purdue University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Sacred Heart University
Skidmore College
SUNY New Paltz
The New School
Tufts University
UMass Amherst
University of California Davis
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Connecticut
University of Delaware
University of Denver
University of Hartford
University of Miami
University of Michigan
University of Nevada Las Vegas
University of Rhode Island
University of Tampa
University of Vermont
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Washington University in St. Louis
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
York St John University
The Class of 2024 is Ready to Lead!
different states where our grads will attend schools 10% of the Class of 2024 who will be playing collegiate sports
different countries in which our grads will study
new institutions added to the list of Harvey accepted-student destinations
Hurrah!
schools new to the list of schools Harvey students attend
For the Class of 2024
SENIOR BREAKFAST
Hosted jointly by the offices of College Counseling and Alumni Relations, the Class of 2024 were celebrated on their last day as Harvey seniors by signing the pennants of their college destination and sitting down to a delicious breakfast in the Harvey Dining Hall. After cherishing their last meal in the Dining Hall, the seniors enthusiastically gathered on the Quad for the traditional college shirt photo before attending a special ceremony featuring senior speaker Raizy Akrongold ’24 and guest alumni speaker Giselle Garcia ’19. We are excited to share their own words with you by including their speeches on the pages to follow.
1. Director of Alumni Relations
Greg Janos ’98 with Katie McCulloch ’24 // 2. Seniors
Edwin Sanchez, Luke McCarthy, and Joseph Altman donning their college shirts // 3. Enjoying Senior Breakfast // 4. Charles Carpenter ’24 with Director of College Counseling Meg Booth // 5. Alumni Association
President Lara Casano ’95 welcomes the Class of 2024 to the alumni community.
The Expert Builders To My Teachers: Senior Breakfast Senior Speech
By Raizy Akrongold ’24
Harvey has created an energy and confidence within me that is ready to explode at Drexel University. The Harvey motto is Rigor with Heart. I feel that Harvey has imparted this spirit within me in spades. 1
My heart is so full as I look at you all and think about how much we have evolved from little freshmen to seniors about to head off to college. On behalf of the Senior Class of 2024, I would like to thank the wonderful, hardworking and dedicated teachers that we have been privileged to have here during our time at Harvey.
To me, Harvey is a magical place. In my time here, I have transformed into a person I could not have become anywhere else. I switched schools to Harvey in the eighth grade and haven’t been the same since.
When I first started at Harvey, all I had was a blank blueprint; however, during my years here I developed a toolbox with the help of many expert builders, Mr. Knauer and Mr. Lazzaro. I cannot say enough about these expert builders who were my teachers. I have developed a unique flair and style here that feels so me.
My favorite book that I have ever read was “The Great Gatsby.” This book described the world of all the glitz and glamor that I was always drawn to as a child. My bedroom growing up looked like it was straight out of old Hollywood, covered with pictures of Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and Brigitte Bardot. When studying “Gatsby” with Ms. Holmes, she assigned a creative project where I was able to create and design my interpretation of all the clothes for the characters in the story. Think about it — how many 17-year-old girls get an opportunity to design dresses for Daisy Buchanan, Myrtle Wilson, and Jordan Baker, and if that wasn’t enough, I was able to design the ultimate Roaring 20’s suit for the Great Gatsby himself. This for me was nirvana.
Ms. Holmes’ assignment created a realization in me in which all these childhood impulses of glitz, glamor, and Hollywood all made sense. One top of that, her kindness and compassion always brought out the best in me. Ms. Holmes gave me the tool of believing in myself.
Although Mr. Saltz’s physics class quickly showed me that I will never be a physicist, he gave me the tool of patience. That physics class shook me to my core, and I think it shook Mr. Saltz even more having to teach it to me. While I did learn some interesting things in physics, the most important lesson I learned was to never stop trying no matter how difficult something may seem. With enough momentum even the most immovable problems can always be solved. Here at Harvey, we have the most incredible art department anywhere — filled with teachers who double as interior designers and architects that teach their students how to sparkle. Mr. Price is one of the most impactful teachers I’ve ever had. It was with Mr. Price that I was able to identify what it was that spoke to me. And it spoke to me loud. I love creating larger-thanlife designs that make people feel like they’re straight out of Hollywood. Mr. Price taught me how to use my big imagination, turn it into style, and turn that style into art. To myself, and so many other students, the art room is home. Whenever we have free periods, we all go there, eager to connect with each other and get back to the various art projects we all have going on. Mr. Price, I can never thank you enough for how much you have impacted me and so many other students. Mr. Price gave me the tool of passion and self discovery.
Another very important builder here at Harvey is Ms. Meyers. Ms. Meyers worked tirelessly with all my teachers to support me. She is like having a best friend on the faculty. Whenever I was in a crisis or had simply left my essay until the last minute, she’s my 911, always there to help me put out the fire and get back on course. She gave me the lifelong tool of organization. I promise I will do my best to not start my future essays without outlining them first.
Harvey has created an energy and confidence within me that is ready to explode at Drexel University. The Harvey motto is Rigor with Heart. I feel that Harvey has imparted this spirit within me in spades. As I graduate, this spirit of Harvey has become a core part of me. As we all have been told, life will throw curveballs out of the park — what could be a better life lesson that Harvey has taught me then to attack it with all the rigor and heart I have.
I will take all the tools I have learned at Harvey and always apply them to my future. I encourage you all to do the same. I imagine you all have gained different tools and use them in different ways, which is what makes our class so unique, and I hope they are some that you always hold onto. I’m so excited to see where this next journey ahead in life takes us all. I hope it’s somewhere magical. Each of us has our own unique blueprint. We have our tools. I can’t wait to see what you build.
1. Seniors sign the pennants of the college destination. // 2. Hayden (Haotian) Zhang (UConn) and Phoebe Schwarz (URI) // 3. Angelica Salazar (Elon University) and Kelly O’Brien (Providence College) // 4. Fernanda Alexandre is headed to California! // 5. Dylan Bazaar will head south to the College of Charleston. // 6. Olaf Gorski is excited for Purdue University. // 7. Lucia Menn and Luke McCarthy // 8. Julian Marin will be attending College of the Holy Cross as did Associate Director of College Counseling Alexandra Carrozza. // 9. Seniors proudly display their college shirts. // 10. Lyndsey Koch and Ellie Florin are heading to Lafayette College. // 11. Isaac Greenwald is ready for Cornell University. // 12. The Class of 2024 will attend a wide variety of colleges and universities this fall.
Senior Breakfast Alum Speech
You Are Happening to the World
By Giselle Garcia ’19
“You know, we are all ordinary people, but even an ordinary secretary or a housewife or a teenager can, within their own small ways, turn on a small light in a dark room.”
This is a quote from the movie “Freedom Writers.” It’s about a teacher who takes a job in the “hood” in one of the toughest schools in the state of California where she enters woefully unprepared to teach students who come from unimaginable circumstances and has to forge relationships with them in the hopes that she can gain their trust and eventually help them believe in themselves. This was my favorite film growing up and life has a funny way of working out because I became that teacher. After I graduated from George Washington University, I was supposed to work in the nonprofit world joining organizations in the fight for freedom, civil rights, and overall to make this world a more equitable and safe place. I somehow ended up becoming an English teacher in the South Bronx to 60 sophomores.
If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans. Just like the teacher in the movie “Freedom Writers,” I was completely, unequivocally, unbelievably unprepared for the job that needed to get done. I saw firsthand how broken our education system really is, how badly teachers are set up to fail, and in turn how that fails the students. My dad grew up in the Bronx and he would tell me about the kind of life people lived there and the injustices that are endured, but seeing it for myself was undoubtedly necessary. Just a 51-minute drive from Harvey’s campus is a community that is fighting gentrification, budget cuts, poor leadership, and so on. But it is also a community of 60 tenth grade students who want so badly to change the world. One second I was a senior in college celebrating my accomplishments, going out with my friends, picking out
my graduation dress, and the next minute I was a 21-year-old ELA teacher working a 60-hour work week researching how to teach 10th graders who are performing at a grade level that ranged from kindergarten through fifth grade.
So I realized, maybe this is where I’m supposed to be right now. Maybe this is what I’m supposed to be doing. Maybe instead of working at a nonprofit, I’m supposed to be helping young teens realize that they can, within their own small ways, turn on a small light within a dark room. I also thought to myself, there are so many individuals advocating for education reform when they’ve never been a teacher a day in their life. How could I possibly fight against a system I realistically knew nothing about.
Turning this now to all of you, it will always be less about where you plan on going, and more so about the kind of person you become along the way. Maybe the universe, God, whatever you believe in, has plans that you know nothing about. We each have something to offer this life and maybe it’s what you never saw coming that can completely change the trajectory of it. How do you want to walk through this world? What kind of person do you want to be? What mark do you want to leave behind?
It’s not about money, it’s not about power, it’s not about status or class or connections. Rather, it’s about integrity, honesty, morals, compassion, and bravery. I know not a single thing about any senior in this room, but I see integrity, honesty, morals, compassion, purpose, and bravery. I can imagine each of you has some idea of the kind of lives you want to live, what university you’re
going to attend, what major you might do, what career path you might choose, what you’re having for dinner later. I do not need to be the one to tell you, though, that the likelihood of every plan you have for yourself coming to fruition is very, very low. Maybe you’ll change majors, maybe you’ll miss the bus to some destination that will change everything, maybe, God forbid, there’s a global pandemic and the world stops spinning on its axis. In the midst of all the change is usually where the beautiful stuff happens. It’s typically where you grow the most and evolve into the person you’re meant to become. If you let it.
I hysterically cried in Mr. Lazzaro’s office because I did not want to come to Harvey. The thought of leaving everything that was familiar to me behind to go to a new school repulsed me. Harvey ended up being the place that served as the foundation for who I am today. The person speaking to you now. All that beautiful stuff that I was referring to before that happens when you embrace change. That happened here. I was able to be successful on my job and beat many odds and my own self-doubts because of the people who saw in me what I could not see in myself. And the people that I see right now, some of the faces, Mr. Morse, Mr. Seymour, Ms. Lindquist, Ms. Holmes, Mrs. Mahony, Ms. V, Mr. Lazzaro, and many more — it was the encouragement and faith they instilled in me that fueled me to keep going and push my limits. When I’m teaching, I think of them. As an adviser, when I’m supporting my advisees, I think of them. It was this village, this family, that I almost threw away that morning in LZ’s office, that changed everything for me.
I gave my kids an assignment titled “What’s your legacy?” where I pushed them to think about the type of legacy they want to leave behind. I figured this speech would be way more meaningful if you walked away with the sentiments not only given by a Harvey alumna, but by a few teens in the Bronx 51 minutes from here whose wisdom and heart can stretch for miles.
Here are some of their responses to the assignment:
Student 1: I want to be known for achieving things in my work and personal life, facing challenges head on and making a real impact on the world around you. I want people to remember me for having a deep sense of inner values and
personal growth. Being spiritually successful for me means being kind, understanding, and positively affecting the wellbeing of those around me. I hope to inspire others to lead balanced lives where success isn’t just about material things but also about finding fulfillment and peace within themselves. Overall, your legacy is about making a positive difference both in things I do and in the way I connect with others on a deeper, more meaningful level. And you can only achieve that with God in your heart.
Student 2: I want to leave behind how I kept trying when there were times I didn’t believe in myself. I know I was the type of person to stick up for someone I care about. I want to be the first female in my family to go to college and I’ll be able to move out of New York City and have my own apartment, car, dream job, just like I’ve dreamt about my entire life.
Student 3: It’s all about leaving a positive impact that will last a lifetime. Remember, a legacy isn’t about money or fame, it’s about the positive mark you leave behind for others. It’s also about being remembered for our positive inputs and things we do for others and the values that we stand for. I feel like I still have some time to figure out my legacy but I feel my legacy is spreading love and making people happy.
What I love about these answers is how they mirror the very sentiments that I wish to share with you. They care less about the jobs they’ll do or the money they make or the places they’ll go but the people that they will meet. They value how they will walk through this world and how they will make others feel. If I were to measure my success by my ability to help my students see their worth and empathize with the world, I’d say I did a pretty good job.
Congratulations on reaching this milestone, Class of 2024. I hope that stepping outside yourself these past few minutes to see the bigger picture helps you all realize that your heart and grit are what will always matter the most, no matter what takes place in this short life. While it is so scary to think about how much is outside our control, remember this — the world is happening to you but you are also happening to the world. We are all ordinary people, but even an ordinary secretary or housewife or teenager can, in their own small ways, turn on a small light in a dark room.
Harvey ended up being the place that served as the foundation for who I am today. The person speaking to you now. All that beautiful stuff that I was referring to before that happens when you embrace change. That happened here.”
To Our Eighth Graders:
Trust In Yourselves
Harvey 8th Grade Class of 2028
1. Ben Tobias, Theodore Yanni, Sam Silva, and Samuel Palevski // 2. Corinne Owen with her family // 3. Head of School
William J. Knauer addresses the eighth graders. // 4. Dr. Brendan Byrne, head of middle school // 5. The bonds of friendship // 6. Director of the Harvey Fund Andrew Jamieson presents the Eighth Grade Class Gift to Middle School Academic Dean Dr. Stephanie Metz and Head of Middle School Dr. Brendan Byrne. // 7. Celebration following the Moving Up Ceremony // 8. Adam Hajem celebrates with his mom,Harvey faculty
Marcie Hajem, younger brother Elias Hajem ’31, his dad Said Hajem, and grandmother.
// 9. Derek Lugo with his parents
// 10. Vivienne Stoller, Corinne Owen, and Emma Mazzella
// 11. Max Bernstein with his family
MovingCeremony Up 8th Grade
Thirty-four Harvey eighth graders took a giant step forward June 5, officially “moving up” to upper school in the celebratory Eighth Grade Moving Up Ceremony. On their last day as middle schoolers, the exhilarated students processed into the Fenstermacher Athletic Center before family, friends, faculty, and staff to bask in their achievements and move on to a new chapter in their educational journey.
Head of Middle School Dr. Brendan Byrne addressed the eighth graders, praising them for being engaged in all the educational opportunities on campus, such as field trips, athletics, performances on the stage, the poetry recitation and speech contests, school dances, Field Day, and so much more.
When sp eaking to the expectation that all middle school students be engaged in the classroom and involved in programs and activities beyond the classroom, Dr. Byrne said, “This group of students has embraced and often exceeded that expectation. They competed in many sports, performed in productions on stage, they’ve been creative in the art room, and as evidenced in our recent issue of our literary magazine The Equinox, they even composed inspiring poetry, all while striving to be engaged learners in the classroom and navigate the ups and downs of middle school.”
Head of Scho ol Bill Knauer also spoke, praising the students and the faculty who guided them in Harvey Middle School. “It’s important to note that all of those experiences would not have been possible without the instruction, coaching, direction, and guidance of our teachers and staff,” he said.
“This is an exciting moment of transition for you,” Mr. Knauer continued. “You’re about to leave middle school and take the momentous step to upper school with only a short summer to prepare for that. Take a moment to reflect on your journey — the memories, the friendships, the highs, the lows. This is your last day as middle schoolers. Embracing the future requires optimism, flexibility, hope, courage, and trust. Trust in yourselves and trust in those you will share that future with,” said Mr. Knauer.
The Middle School Chorus performed the now iconic “Cups” song from the movie “Pitch Perfect,” harmonizing to the percussion of solo cups in an awe-inspiring display of musicality and performance.
Faculty sp eaker Austin Morgan did what he does best, and in lieu of delivering a traditional speech, performed a rap song personalized for every single eighth grader and Middle School faculty and staff, as well as a few other key members of the Harvey community. The result was a lot of smiles, laughter, and a standing ovation for Mr. Morgan. Mic drop!
Scho ol prizes were awarded for academics and athletics, with eighth grader Elizabeth Galgano receiving the Scholarship Cup for finishing the school year with the highest scholastic standing.
As the eighth graders recessed out onto the Harvey Quad, they hugged their families, shared smiles with their friends, and no doubt held tight to the special bonds and memories they made in Harvey Middle School.
Congratulations, Class of 2028, and be your very best in Upper School!
“Only the present moment is real.”
—Thich Nhat Hanh
8th Grade Moving Up Faculty Speech Give ’em Some Praise The Class of 2028!
Mood music please
Ahhh … much better. Echem.
Dear eighth grade students, Students of eighth grade — Wait, wait, guys.
Can I just say something?
When I was asked to write a speech, I really tried to think of something soft and poised, And traditional for this ceremony, but, uh, It’s just that, y’know.
When I think of the Class 2028, They were hype out the gate, so I had to come with something more their pace.
They always say I’m too loud. Guys, I really tried to tone it down.
They really should’ve thought this through before they brought me out.
Well, it’s too late now. I’m talking ’bout the crew. If you know, then nod your head, and if you don’t, I’ll introduce you to Sameera, Krissy, Issy, and Ruth; Peter, Derek, and Johnny Cappuch; I’m talking Liv, Corinne, Emma, and Brayden; Liz, Viviene, Lilah, and Aiden: Jane, Theo, Ethan, Max, and Gavin; Ben, Tob, Sophie, Joe, Zak, and Adam; Guilia, Cassidy, Emily, Bex, and Amity; Sam S, and Sam P, Olivia V and Ben Cali. Man, ’cause they’re different in so many ways.
Give ’em some praise; they made it all the way through eighth grade —
The Class of 2028!
By Austin Morgan
Now a little Mr. Norman music trivia.
Can you guess the name of this song?
Anyone? Anyone?
The hook goes
“As we go on we remember all the good times we had together.”
I’m not signing; we’ll save that for the chorus up next.
But let’s talk about memories …
See I told Dr. Byrne, I don’t know how I can follow Mr. Fink. He tore the stage up last year!
And he said, “Hey worst case is, they don’t remember it.”
See, memories, they fade as you move to the upper school, Or to another school there’s some memories you take. Yeah, they come with you like the field trip buses, Or field day, squeezing sponges into water buckets, In the hallway chatting at your locker,
And Mrs. Hajem watching if you late like a helicopter, but she lay the science down proper — we’re all engaged. We bought glasses and stared right into space
And then we wait and then we wait
And then we wait for the moon to cover the sun; In Music with Ms. Davies bangin’ the drums.
Is that blood? Nah, it’s just stage makeup.
Yeah, Ms. Merola showed me the ropes, Then passed the microphone. Hope I don’t choke Shoveling lunch like it’s outta style.
Chef Suchada’s arms folded with a smile, Better eat up quick and hit the rink with Mr. Plaskett — The man lived history, just go ahead and ask him.
In recess normally you have a catch,
But with Mr. Delaney, he’s scouting for the NFL draft.
Odds of you making it are on Mrs. Bura’s math tree.
Mrs. P tryna shape you into athletes.
Rap is poetry and if you ever had Mrs. Matero, then you all learned to rap unknowingly.
I know you’ll remember the podcasting after school,
Interviewing ball players about their shoes, Or doing shows like, “Peter Pan” And “Matilda In Wonderland.”
Down the rabbit hole you go into Dr. Byrne’s office.
Guys, If it smells like trouble just lay off it.
Wish you best of luck in finding Ms. Feighery’s ducks. And no longer can you call Ms. Lombardi for a pick-up, See, Fink set the bar high. I’m just tryna live up. And Dr. Metz’ laugh sound like hiccups.
Hey, where’d you get that cupcake? Mrs. A.
And that Donut? Mrs. A.
Hey, Senoras Bogiatzis and Menacho, Imma need a translate
To say you guys made me do better. But, wait, let’s get a selfie for the newsletter.
Okay, no phones at school. Mr. Morgan, don’t be a hypocrite. I know,
But what I can do is I still have 30 more seconds to give you performance direction, so rock with me!
When I say “Hey,” you say, “Thank you.”
Hey.
Thank you.
To the coaches who wrote plays and drove you to your games say,
Security, for keeping us outta harm’s way, say, Nurse Nikki tending your wounds, keeping you alive
1. Treasured faculty “rapper” Austin Morgan // 2.
and
//
with Assistant to Head of School Michelle Morris // 4. Middle School Chorus performs “Cups” at the 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony. // 5. Olivia Veneable with her parents and sister Eva Veneable ’25
For maintenance making sure the hills ain’t a slip ’n slide.
To Mr. K, head of school,
To Wahlers and the tech crew,
To the superstars in the kitchen serving you delicious food,
And to all your teachers who stuck it with you through and through say
For your parents who took you in the rain, sleet, or snow, Helped you grow, and with homework, and gave you resources to go,
To an amazing school and everything they do,
So turn to the person next to you, give ’em some skin.
We made it to the end; here’s to being a friend.
If Friday was the last time DePalma calls your town
Like Katonah! Then I’ll be seeing you around.
But as you move to the next adventure, just remember,
And even though y’all tested my patience to limits I didn’t know existed,
I’m grateful for getting to know you guys these past three years.
Best of luck in your future and whoever’s hosting the after-party, best of luck to you, too.
You made this memorable for me;
I hope I made it memorable for you.
Thank you.
Middle School Prizes
The Almirall Scholarship Cup // Given in 1922 by the late Juan A. Almirall, Esq. inscribes the name of the student having the highest scholastic standing for the year: Elizabeth Galgano
The Leverett T. Smith Memorial Award // Named after our former Headmaster Leverett T. Smith, given in recognition for initiative and perseverance in the pursuit of some special interest during the school year: Sameera Britton & Zakaria Boujid
The Michael Stirling Duncan
Cup // Given in memory of Michael Stirling ’50 inscribed each year with the name of the student who has demonstrated the greatest interest and enthusiasm for literature: Sophie Frankel
Philip G. Cole Award // Given by Dr. and Mrs. Philip G. Cole in honor of their son Philip G. Cole, Jr. Class of 1934, to the student who has shown the greatest all-around improvement: Theodore Yanni
Class
The Aspinwall Athletic Cup //
by Lloyd Aspinwall, Class of 1925, a member of the Board of Trustees, whose two sons attended Harvey, to the student voted best athlete: Derek Lugo
The
The Jack Hornor Prize // Endowed by Jack’s father, John W. Hornor, Esq. in honor of his son, Jack Hornor, Class of 1929, awarded for excellence in mathematics: Max Bernstein
The Top 10 scholars for the past three semesters, according to weighted grade averages. The Scholarship Cup is awarded to the student with the highest average.
Best Wishes
To Dale Osborne
On Her Retirement
After working for the Town of Bedford Recreation Department and running its weekly skating program, Dale started working at Harvey in 1980, overseeing the rink’s front office on weekends. Upon the retirement of longtime rink registrar Ginny Smith in 1994, Dale assumed the position of assistant to the rink director, the position she has held since.
Dale’s responsibilities have included overseeing the day-to-day rink operation, scheduling, accounting, and fielding questions from
those new to The Harvey School all the way through to addressing the needs of the rink’s long-standing rental groups. Dale has worked closely with the Bedford Bears and the Hickory Hill Figure Skating Club throughout her tenure as assistant to the rink director, who happens to be her husband, Bruce Osborne. Harvey’s most senior faculty member.
Dale married Bruce in 1987. They have lived on campus for 30 years where they raised their two children, Bradley (2007) and Erika (2009), proud Harvey graduates who enjoyed growing up on the school grounds. Dale and Bruce spend their summers tending to the Osborne Family Farm in upstate Cherry Valley, New York. Their booth at Harvey’s Homecoming Farmers Market was a popular venue for members of the school community to purchase all kinds of farm-grown dairy products and produce, just some of the fruits of Dale and Bruce’s labor.
Evarts Memorial Ice Rink is an iconic landmark in Northern Westchester, and it is very fair to say that Dale Osborne has been the face of Harvey’s rink for the past 30 years. Along the way, she has earned the respect and appreciation of many with whom she has worked. We are delighted to share here the testimonials and recollections of just some of those who know Dale well and wish to pay tribute to her. All of Harvey thanks you, Dale, for your many years of service and dedication to Harvey.
Reflections from friends and colleagues:
From mites through midgets and through more than a decade of figure skating, our three children called the Harvey School Rink their second home. And that is how we, as their parents felt, too. A friendly, warm (strange for an ICE rink!) place where they could have lots of fun. Dale always seemed glad to see us, and made sure the kids were safe and happy. Her calm, kind manner set a tone that permeated the rink. Not to mention her wonderful sense of humor! She made those years memorable. It is hard to imagine the rink without her there!
Enjoy your retirement, Dale!
Fondly, Ron and Laurel Schliftman (longtime skater and skate session tester), Matt, Elizabeth and Tim
I have known Dale Osborne since I was 12 years old, and she has been an important part of my life growing up at the Harvey Rink. She has been a special person to the rink, community, staff, and personally to me. I have always considered her my second coach for the Middle School hockey team. She is the first person that my players see when they enter the rink and they quickly go to her for skate sharpenings, tape, and all things to get them onto the ice. She has raised her son Bradley and her daughter Erika at the rink, who are also both wonderful people too! From my youth to adulthood, I have watched Dale welcome the community into the rink with a happy smile, a kind word, a thoughtful response, and a friendly greeting. I have been blessed to know Dale for a long time, but sad that I will not see her at the rink. I will miss my friend and wish her a well-deserved retirement!
—
Doug Plaskett, longtime friend and Harvey faculty member
Dear Dale, as your tenure at our rink draws to a close I feel sadness for your departure but gratitude for the years I have gotten to know you and the opportunities I have had to work for you.
You gave me one of my earliest jobs, manning the front office during summer ice time. The simple experiences I gained from you teaching me how to manage the building, work a cash box, and keep records, went far beyond the tangible tasks of a summer job. Your trust in me to run the rink those summers shaped my character and instilled important values that I still apply today. I thank you for that.
As you embark on this new chapter of your life, know that you will be missed. I wish you the very best and I hope that you never have to turn on an electric space heater again!”
— Jackie (Klein) Walker ’03, friend, former rink employee
I have known Dale Osborne for over 25 years. She is and has always been a gem of a person, honest, smart, hard-working, intelligent, and someone with great integrity. She has always been so helpful as a colleague and a friend. I could not have done my job for over 30 years at the Harvey Rink without her mentoring. I will miss her so much, but I know it is time to begin a new stage of her life. The best part is that she will always be in my life as a friend that is special.
— Amy Schliftman, longtime Evarts Rink office assistant
Dale, you have been an unpretentious, loyal, and supportive friend of 47 years — and counting. We know you will be greatly missed by your colleagues and by patrons of the rink. For many years, your quiet efficiency ensured that the rink ran as smoothly as possible. We wish you a long and joyful retirement as you continue your roles as wife, mother, and grandmother. “Friends are the family you choose.” We are lucky.
Thank you for being our friend. Char and Tim Stark, longtime friends, campus neighbors, and Harvey faculty
Alexander ’13, Tom Banca, Bruce and Dale, Amy Schliftman, and Mike Bonnelli, Sr.
Dear Dale,
As you embark on your well-deserved retirement, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible impact you’ve had on The Harvey School community and to express my deepest gratitude for all you have done.
From the very first day I walked through the doors of the rink back in 1992, your warm smile and welcoming presence made me feel right at home. Whether as a student, an employee, or a friend, I’ve always known I could count on you for assistance, support, and encouragement. Your dedication and kindness have not only helped me personally but have also strengthened the bond within our entire community.
You, along with Bruce and Tommy, have been the heart and soul of the rink, but it’s your presence that has truly been its face. Your constant dedication, your unwavering commitment, and your heartfelt interactions with everyone who walks through those doors have left an indelible mark on The Harvey School. Because of your efforts, the rink isn’t just a place to skate; it’s a vibrant community where everyone feels connected and valued.
Your influence reaches far beyond the rink itself. You have been a cornerstone of our community, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie that we will deeply miss. Your absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the legacy you’ve built will continue to inspire us all.
As you transition into this new chapter of your life, enjoying the joys of being a grandmother to two beautiful babies and the peacefulness of life on the farm, please know how much you are appreciated. Your contributions have been invaluable, and your presence has been an honor to us all.
Thank you, Dale, for everything you’ve done for me, for The Harvey School, and for our beloved rink. We wish you all the happiness and fulfillment in your retirement. You will always be a cherished member of our community.
With heartfelt gratitude and best wishes, Greg Janos ’98, longtime friend, Harvey faculty
Dale, I know you will be so missed at the rink and will never really be able to be replaced. So many years we worked together, and what a wonderful person you were to work with! I know you are going to enjoy retirement and spending time with your grandchildren. Nothing better than grandchildren filling your day with joy and, yes, hard work. Enjoy the next chapter in your life.
- Alana Kelton, friend and former skating school director and skating teacher
Sports Wrap
Spring 2024 Athletes Shine in Harvey Pride
It was quite a memorable spring for varsity teams who produced a season filled with unforgettable highlights and, yes, some heartache, too.
Two of the three teams competing against Housatonic Valley Athletic League (HVAL) rivals came out on top — the girls tennis team and a quartet of Harvey golfers. In the first year of HVAL singles and doubles championship play, Harvey girls won each event, Cindy (Xinping) Wang ’26 in the singles and Arabella Serfilippi ’27 and Sarah Fisher ’27 in the doubles.
Although the b oys tennis team’s spring ended with a heartbreaking 4-3 loss to Wooster in the championship match, the pairing of Logan Alexander ’25 and Emmett Cahill ’26 captured the first-ever HVAL doubles championship.
The golf team season ended in history-making fashion, achieving a feat that had not been accomplished in 21 years. Along with the team winning the HVAL title, junior captain Cade Gilligan took the individual championship crown for shooting the lowest score among all the competing golfers.
The b oys lacrosse team suffered a double dose of disappointment in an otherwise terrific spring, finishing up the season as runners-up in both the HVAL and NEPSAC tournament championships. The Cavaliers had a remarkable run all season long as they entered the playoffs undefeated against league rivals for the second straight season.
The baseball team had its share of excitement, too, as the Cavs got the chance to play in the NEPSAC Small Schools Championship Tournament. They advanced to the semifinal round on a spectacular one-hit, 1-0 complete game victory by senior Edwin Sanchez Jr. The Cavs saw their dreams of playing for a New England schools title end in a loss in the tournament’s semifinal round.
Although s ome players capped off their spring by hoisting a championship trophy with teammates, others can take solace in knowing they gave it everything they had in pursuit of a title for their team.
We salute all the coaches and the players on all the fall teams — varsity, JV, and Middle School — for their hard work, commitment, and dedication, and for representing the school with fine sportsmanship and class throughout the season.
At the end of the season, the leagues and the coaches named the following as recipients of postseason honors:
Girls Varsity TENNIS
(10-2 overall: 8-0 HVAL)
MVP
Cindy (Xinping) Wang
MIP
Kayla Lichtenstein
Coaches
Gabrielle Schneider
Cavalier Spirit
Arabella Serfilippi
Sarah Fisher
HVAL All-League
Cindy (Xinping) Wang
Arabella Serfilippi
Sarah Fisher
Gabrielle Schneider
HVAL All-League
Honorable Mention
Kayla Lichtenstein
All-NEPSAC
Cindy (Xinping) Wang
Arabella Serfilippi
Sarah Fisher
Boys Varsity TENNIS
(10-5 overall; 7-1 HVAL)
MVP
Brian Goldban
Coaches
Emmett Cahill
HVAL All-League
Brian Goldban
Teddy Aaron
Cameron Lederer
Boys Varsity LACROSSE
(12-3 overall; 9-1 HVAL)
MVP (Offense)
Jared Effinger
MVP (Defense)
Wesley Elkind
MIP
Ryan Byrne
Players’ Player
Jackson Saccomanno
Coaches
Evan Vasile
Unsung Hero Award
Richard Sullivan
HVAL All-League
Jared Effinger
Wesley Elkind
Felix Oliver
Jackson Saccomanno
Michael Sorio
All-NEPSAC
Wesley Elkind
Felix Oliver
All-NEPSAC
Honorable Mention
Jackson Saccomanno
Michael Sorio
New England Prep Division 3
Offensive Player of the Year
Jared Effinger
New England All-Academic
Wesley Elkind
Coed Varsity GOLF
(3-2)
MVP
Cade Gilligan
MIP
Lucien Fried
Sportsmanship
Leo Marano
Coed Varsity TRACK & FIELD
MVP
Shae-Anne Falconer
Felipe Torres
MIP
O’Neil Ellis
Top Newcomer
Jake Brokaw
Ally Zimmerman
Cavalier
Lilah Groff
All-NEPSAC
Shae-Anne Falconer (shot put)
All-NEPSAC
Honorable Mention
Felipe Torres (3000m)
Boys Varsity BASEBALL
(7-7)
MVP
Jake Acosta
MIP
Luke McCarthy
Cavalier
Edwin Sanchez
Top Pitcher
Jack Amann
Top Hitter
Luca Marano
All-NEPSAC
Edwin Sanchez
All-NEPSAC
Honorable Mention
Max Hernandez
Top Student-Athletes Spring Term
Casey Kelly ’26 and Ryan Byrne ’25
Girls Varsity SOFTBALL
(4-3)
Golden Glove
Fernanda Alexandre
Silver Slugger
Gabriella Bonilla
MVP
Gabriella Bonilla
MIP
Peyton Forde
All-NEPSAC
Gabriella Bonilla
WNEPSGSBA All Star
Gabriella Bonilla
Felicity Ristau
Boys Varsity
RUGBY
Ted O’Connor Alumni Award
Spencer Hindle
Julian Marin
Jazz
Vishal Thadani
Discipline
Jordan Falk
Will Herman
Bravery
Jason Nelson
Ben Lawrence-Comerford
Girls Varsity RUGBY
(9-4-1)
MVP (Offense)
Casey Kelly
MVP (Defense)
Savannah Acosta
Sportsmanship
Grace Xue
Girls JV TENNIS
(1-6)
MVP (doubles)
Mallon Gilligan
Rylan Gilligan
MVP (singles)
Zoey Berman
MIP
Joy (Jiayi) Chen
Coaches
Chloe Campbell
Boys JV TENNIS
(0-4)
MIP
Samuel Koester
Coaches
Henry (Jiaxing) He
MS Boys BASEBALL
(5-2)
MVP Peter Adler
MIP
Samuel Palevski
Cavalier
Jonathan Cappucci
MS Coed TENNIS (2-5)
MVP Ethan Gabin
MIP
Adam Desrocher
Cavalier
Corinne Owen
Sameera Britton
Students Signing to Play
Collegiate Varsity Sports
2024 Awards Achievement Senior Athletic
Congratulations Class of 2024!
Raizy Akrongold
Fernanda Alexandre
Grace Alpern
Joseph Altman
Annika Arya
Finn Barnes
Sienna Bates
Dylan Bazaar
Gabriella Bonilla
Ian Bryant
Charles Carpenter
Christophe Conoscente
Eli Cornell
Jack Curley
Łukasz Daszczyński
Rachel Dickey
Riley D’Onofrio
Gabe Duran
Jared Effinger
Welsey Elkind
Sophie Feldman
Ellie Florin
McKensi Forde
Blake Friedman
Lance Goodnow
Olaf Gorski
Isaac Greenwald
Dylan Gueli
Iva Hadži-Mihailović
Iliana Hellinger
Spencer Hindle
Nora Jobe
Helena Kasarda
Annissa Khanna
Samuel Kiamie
Theo Klagsbrun
Lyndsey Koch
Hudson Krasne
Ava Lazaroff
Kayla Lichtenstein
Phoebe Lichtman
Talia Lieberman
Angela (Yi) Lu
Julian Marin
Shelby McCaine
Luke McCarthy
Katie McCulloch
Jennifer Mena
Lucia Menn
Eliza Morris
Jason Nelson
Kelly O’Brien
Felix Oliver
Chloé Ramsey Lavoie
Matthew Rankin
Terrell Raynor
Rees Rodriguez
Angelica Salazar
Edwin Sanchez
Phoebe Schwarz
Andreas Serfilippi
Matias Sin
Michael Sorio
Peter Sorio
Jaylani Teixeira
Riannah Wallach
Tracy (Siyi) Wang
Carina Weksel
Alexa Williams
Hudson Zamacona
Hayden (Haotian) Zhang