Founders ’ Day 2013

Each year, Lawrence Academy, founded in 1793, celebrates its rich history on Founders ’ Day. On October 18, Head of School Dan Scheibe presided over ceremonies that not only reflected on LA’ s two centuries of educational tradition, but also recognized the achievements of a community-oriented student; a beloved conditioning coach; a true confidante; and a longtime and highly esteemed advisor.

The Greater Good Award: Amadu Kunateh ’15

Amadu Kunateh ’15

Amadu Kunateh ’15 of Lynn, Mass., was presented with this year ’ s student Greater Good Award. Representing the Cum Laude Society, which selects the recipients, Lauren Chin ’14 spoke of Kunateh’ s impact on the LA community, sharing one of his favorite quotes: “If you want to walk fast, walk alone; but if you want to walk far, then walk with others. ” Chin noted that Amadu ’ s efforts to encourage a community of self-improvement and growth began as soon as he set foot on campus as a freshman, always driven by a “ contagious positivity,

a “ genuine curiosity and openness, ” and a “ perpetual excitement

and drive to learn.

” The Greater Good Award, which recognizes citizens in the school community who use their education to make the world a better place, is made possible by a grant from the Lawrence Academy Endowment Fund for Service, Social Justice, and Global Awareness, created in 2005 by Jay Dunn ’83 and his family. (For details about Amadu ’ s efforts, please see the Journal’ s feature, Fambul Tok, pg. 14.)

25 Years of Service to LA: Holly Steward

Holly Steward

School Counselor Holly Steward was recognized for reaching the milestone of 25 years of service to Lawrence Academy. In addition to filling her role as counselor, Ms. Steward provides guidance for a new group of student peer counselors each year. Faculty member Michelle Ruby ’98, a peer counselor during her time as an LA student, spoke in tribute: “Through listening and letting us come to our own conclusions, Holly has helped countless students through the trials and tribulations of adolescence. She is truly one of the most caring and supportive people I have ever met. ”

Kathy Peabody Memorial Book Award: Michael Poulin

Peer Counselors and proctors, representing the student body, selected strength and conditioning instructor Michael Poulin to receive the Kathy Peabody Memorial Book Award, an award that recognizes a nonteaching LA community member who helps to create a secure, positive environment in which all members of the community may achieve their best. Seniors Francesca Kiesling and Nicholas Radwan spoke on his behalf. “Three words—attitude, respect, and discipline—are Mr. Poulin ’ s motto, ” said Kiesling. “With those,

you can achieve greatness. ” Radwan added,

“He never fails to find a lesson in any conversation and help relate it all back to real life. ” Poulin received the award from its founder, Kevin McDonald ’70, and George Peabody, a retired teacher and husband of the dorm parent in whose memory it is named.

Founders ’ Day Award for Service to Lawrence Academy: Harold W. Potter Jr., Esq.

LA Board of Trustees President Bruce MacNeil ’70, Harry Potter, and Head of School Dan Scheibe

Harold W. Potter Jr., Esq., of Wellesley Hills, Mass., was presented with the Founders ’ Day Award for exceptional service to the school. A lawyer with Holland and Knight, Mr. Potter contributed his expertise in handling the legal concerns of many independent schools throughout his 22 years on Lawrence Academy ’ s board of trustees, a tenure he recently completed. Head of School Dan Scheibe acknowledged Mr. Potter ’ s broad influence, quoting another independent school head in his tribute: “Harry Potter is an extraordinary advocate for schools and their well-being… a voice of calm, principled common sense graced with an extraordinary wisdom about working with people in demanding circumstances. ” Calling him to the stage to receive his award, Mr. Scheibe introduced Mr. Potter as “ a man who has given LA not just his protection, but his loyalty to the full measure of his considerable humanity. ”

The longtime trustee, noting that this was the only time he had ever had the chance to speak directly to the student body, asked students to recognize what he believes to be the most crucial part of their excellent education, the faculty. After sharing his own thoughts about the importance of caring for that dedicated group of professionals, he asked the community to join him in applauding them. In doing so, he displayed some of the character that so many are pleased to recognize in him, turning the recognition of his own achievement into an opportunity, instead, to cherish the work of others.