Commencement and Senior Tributes

Hailing from the rugged ranchlands of Grass Valley, Calif., Sandy arrived knowing plenty about horses and the outdoors, and he looked the part. What might have been less apparent at first glance was his capacity for imagination and his active intellectual life. Well read and eloquent, Sandy revels in a good debate, embracing the role of the occasionally provocative skeptic. Sandy’s views are not simple knee-jerk reactions to a question, but rather the product of extensive thought and reflection. Ask him about steam-punk literature, politics, or his favorite comic book storyline, and he will give you informed and interesting commentary; he knows how to make a person stop and think. Turn him loose on a topic that ignites his passion, such as the business of video games, and prepare yourself for one of the most lucid, thorough, and altogether impressive Senior Exhibitions in recent memory. As Sandy keeps it amphibian next year with his transition from Toad to Horned Frog, we are confident that his insightful, creative mind will continue to seek out his true passions and that his new community will come to appreciate his many talents as much as we have.

Character. It’s a word that comes up again and again when talking about Hutton. Whether debating in the classroom, hustling on the basketball court, memorizing brain parts for a psych exam, dramatizing an Indoor announcement, or taking charge in the dorm, Hutton gives 100 percent of herself without complaint or hesitation. She knows how to dig deep when the moment calls for it, and is the partner any of us would want when facing adversity, or an opponent of any sort. Funny, able and resilient, Hutton can do it all. A three-sport varsity athlete since her sophomore year, she is graduating with 11—yes, 11 out of a possible 12 varsity letters, a feat rarely achieved here. As a Prefect and head of the Indoor Committee, she has made a lasting impression on Thacher with her passion and generosity of spirit. In the classroom, Hutton has proven to be equally tenacious, leaving teachers with the knowledge that if they need something done and done well, they ought to go to Hutton. We are so glad to have had her indomitable spirit by our side these last four years, and know there is no challenge she cannot face.

Maeve rocks! This California girl with New York savvy, who seamlessly blends ranch values with street sense, is the one you want by your side in any situation. A steady and insightful presence in the classroom, and a trustworthy, mature, and loyal member of our community, Maeve has made her mark on Thacher in countless ways. Whether it’s leading by example in the horse department, providing a compassionate and non-judgmental ear to her junior prefectees, or proudly guiding Spectrum, Maeve’s uncompromising realism and down-to-earth charm win her many fans. Her freshman charges in the fall riding program said it best when they unveiled T-shirts during the Family Weekend riding demonstration that spelled out “We love Maeve!” And we do. Maeve once said that she’s “always been one to secretly enjoy rocking the boat.” This autobiographical sound bite encapsulates her unique blend of intelligence, dry wit ,and empathy. With an inherent goodness, Maeve navigates life with humility and a steely resolve that has allowed her to grow tremendously at Thacher. We know she will charge out of these gates confidently with the spirit and determination to achieve anything she sets her mind to. Why? Because Maeve rocks!

He’s a modern-day Renaissance man, full of talent and curiosity. When Bradley arrived as a freshman, his intellectual, personal, and athletic potential established him as a serious student, an impact athlete, and a fun-loving and loyal friend. We have seen his leadership on display in the sophomore dorm, on the Judicial Council, and in the backcountry. Thoughtful and sharp, he pushes, prods, and challenges his classmates and teachers throughout the spectrum of his rigorous course load. He is a strong, persuasive writer—adept at using logic and sophisticated thinking to infuse his argument with a sense of the inexorable. He brings insight and persistence to problem-solving, so it’s no surprise that he’s successfully tackled nearly every math course offered; it is also completely apt that he chose to focus on da Vinci’s scientific inventions for his Senior Exhibition. To this versatility, add self-sacrifice and level-headedness to describe his athletic contributions. He earned interscholastic honors for playing a variety of positions on the football, soccer, and lacrosse teams—blocking, catching, defense, offense, or midfield; whatever the team needed, Bradley did and did well. Deftly integrating his many strengths, Bradley always delivers.

A bundle of enthusiasm. A Winnie the Pooh costume. A power shot in the final seconds of a tight lacrosse game. The common factor? Julianna, the girl who charmed our hearts freshman year with that first “hello” and huge smile. Since then, she has discovered the joy of cross country, spearheaded the attack in lacrosse for four years, soloed on the bass clarinet in Jazz Band, delved into our environmental action program, and displayed her scholarly side in the classroom. She brings her sponge-like curiosity to any discipline, but she shines particularly in English, where she enjoys both language and rhetoric. Her “why not?” approach, always evident in the classroom, led her to the helm of the Hill and a new prefect system that she helped implement successfully. There, she can chat late into the night with her charges, giggle and laugh, and, if necessary, don a Japanese kimono and headband for a serious dodgeball competition in the gym. What else does one need to guarantee victory? Nothing. And while we wish Julianna the best as she leaves our gates, we have to say—you had us at “hello,” and we really hate to say goodbye.

Jung Min “Josh” Cho

Personal inertia and apathy are the enemy. Josh relentlessly works to eliminate them from his life, pouring himself wholeheartedly into seemingly every activity of which he is physically capable. Gymkhana captain. Sophomore prefect. Three consecutive wins at the Westmont College Math Competition. Command of four languages. First chair of the Jazz Ensemble. Budding Internet entrepreneur. Unofficial co-host of every assembly, and the king of all minor tournaments (chess, mind-winder, you name it). The tireless energy he brings to our community manifests itself in so many different areas, we wonder how he can keep track of it all. One teacher writes, “Whenever I think of Josh I think about a young man who is totally invested in our community. He is someone who wants to make a difference and always does.” Josh’s impact on our school comes across not merely from the breadth of his pursuits, but from his enthusiasm and that natural charisma that draws his peers in right along with him. Confident, engaged, ready to put himself out there to teach, entertain, and inspire, this young man has lofty dreams, the talents to make them a reality, and the personal magnetism to bring others along for the ride.

“I am totally fascinated by soil,” says Michael. It’s a simple enough sentence, but what it says about Michael—about his intellect and passion—is anything but elementary. Worlds away from his largely dirt-free Seoul home, Michael has nonetheless found comfort at Thacher; he’s well-suited to the challenges of our classrooms, adept on a trail, in tune with a horse, and generally at ease with the idea of getting his hands dirty. That Michael chose to light off for the Maine Coast Semester as a junior only reinforced our understanding of his intrepid spirit and his dedication to the study of all things environmental. That he discovered there a true passion best exemplified by his unadulterated pleasure in compost diving was really no surprise. Michael’s belief in the importance of protecting our planet’s resources isn’t an intellectual one—it’s hands on. Heading up the EAC’s composting program, doing summer research at Korea’s National Institute of Animal Science on converting methane into clean energy, leading hikes and outdoor adventures for schoolchildren in Seoul, urging his Senior Exhibition audience to think about the impact of the food industry’s treatment of animals—these are the hallmarks of Michael’s commitment. He’s bettering the world, from the ground up, and we couldn’t be more proud.

Four years ago Paul wrote in his application to Thacher: “I once read that the only way to succeed in life is to step outside of your comfort zone and far, far into your courage zone.” So it was that this extraordinarily bright and musically gifted young man arrived on campus and took our breath away. “Accomplished” doesn’t come close to describing the quality of his work in the classroom. Math, science, French, music—Paul has distinguished himself across the board. On stage, in the choral room, or at the piano, Paul’s talent and mastery have moved us all. His virtuosity has led to starring roles and directing moments, including filling in to teach music classes last fall. Of course, Paul knows that performing often means entertaining, as his hilarious portrayal of King Arthur in Spamalot clearly underscored. Paul has charmed, amused, and inspired us by turns, and his courage has helped to transform this community. So it is no surprise that Paul stands here, as School Chair, representing the best of what Thacher stands for—integrity, true talent, hard work, and generosity of spirit.

Describing his beloved theater-tech gang as “a frat house that won’t turn anyone away,” Parker explains that he loves tech work because it’s focused on creativity, ingenuity and problem solving. And really, where would the Milligan Center stage be without Parker’s commitment to every show? He brings that same prodigious energy and creativity to his classes. His teachers describe him as “curious, attentive and engaged, and all-in when it comes to teasing out tricky problems.” A third-generation Thacher man, Parker grew up regaled with stories of horses, camping, camaraderie and honor. From day one he has embraced the Thacher experience thoroughly, particularly the “unplugged” aspects of our daily life here: playing the ukulele, working or kicking back at Golden Trout, consuming milk and conversation in the dining hall, dressing formally to celebrate the weekly arrival of Friday. In Latin or lacrosse, he’s always ready to mix it up, but not in pursuit of personal honors or distinctions; rather, the goal is to serve the team and the School, to bring his best. A young man of indomitable empathy and principle, Parker has left his own unique legacy at CdePDaws.

Alex is a perfect example of yin and yang: toughness balanced by warmth. Intimidating on the tennis court, a sunny contrarian in the classroom, generous in the dorm, firm in her convictions, Alex is both mother hen and mama grizzly. When she believes in something, she commits to it with tenacity and endurance; best get out of the way. Her talent and passion for math and science have made her a standout student in both disciplines, with teachers consistently praising her mastery at the highest levels. And Alex’s interest in politics and her unwavering insistence that there be two sides to every debate have both elevated and balanced many campus discussions. In the dorm, her perceptive nature has made her a trusted source of counsel and a thoughtful leader. That same commitment to serving others motivates her volunteer work with young children. It’s not hard to imagine Alex’s broad and easy smile gracing the cover of some future magazine—dressed in surgical scrubs, running for office, or having raised a beautiful family. Or, if we know Alex, doing all three at the same time, and much, much more.

Whether debating the morality of dropping the bomb on Hiroshima, triumphing in a grueling three-set tennis match, or adding to his nearly encyclopedic knowledge of the Billboard charts, when Olivier locks in, “40 minutes can seem like 10.” This is a gentle soul with a powerful brain who demonstrates his commitment to making the most of opportunities for growth by challenging himself both in and beyond the classroom. That he’s been voted most improved player by his teammates three separate times in soccer and cross country speaks to Olivier’s dedication and persistence in the things he loves. A smart, creative, and independent thinker, he engages eagerly with the world around him, digging deeply into topics that capture his interest. Case in point: his recent analysis of the effect of technology on the music industry. Gifted with an infectiously fun personality and well-developed ear, Olivier delights over and over with musical riffs and impersonations of fellow students and teachers. These are, in Olivier, just two more kinds of intelligence, uniquely blended and enlivened daily. Formidable.

Who among us hasn’t wished for an opportunity to take a turn, à la Being John Malkovich, in Liam’s brain. His mind moves a mile a minute, contemplating sophisticated ideas, ceaselessly imagining, and engaging in deep scrutiny. A big idea guy and a people person, Liam is always eager to engage with and to contextualize information, to think outside the box, and to apply what he has learned in real world situations. In all he takes on, Liam has displayed boundless enthusiasm and a commitment to learning—leading discussions in AP English, packing burros at Golden Trout, rock climbing, and interacting with his peers. The fact that Liam was voted most improved player on both the lacrosse and soccer teams stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to hard work—striving always, ego-free, to better the team. Through his sense of humor and ability to live the life of the mind and simultaneously be of the world, Liam has built a dedicated following among his Thacher family. And, like a family, we’ll stand behind him as he departs, wishing him well and already awaiting his return home.

As comfortable scaling Jameson Rock as he is engaging in an AP Environmental Science discussion, Alex revels in challenge. A supportive mentor, he has guided novice climbers on the rock face, and on camping trips he has shared his heartfelt and lifelong respect for the natural world. Alex has also helped the junior boys navigate their lives as upperclassmen and created an oasis for them on the Upper School balcony. He does all this helping with ease and confidence; nothing seems to faze him. Alex brings this same sense of dedication to academics. While he has the mind of a scientist —patient, engaged, curious, and tenacious—he is just as effective taking the lead in Comparative Government or in tackling a creative writing project in Spanish. But Alex’s world stretches far beyond Thacher. A month-long NOLS trip in Wyoming, shark research in the Bahamas, trekking in Andean Peru: Alex is constantly looking for adventure and rejoices in sharing the excitement. Perhaps his Senior Exhibition on the marine life of the Channel Islands gave us a glimpse of a future Professor Duncan. Alex is as solid as granite, and as inspiring as the sunset viewed from his Upper School perch.

He has a big personality and a big-time aura. With a strong drive for success and a well-honed work ethic, Kyrien exploded onto the Thacher scene three years ago, and he’s never looked back. While his friends may justifiably describe him as “chill,” Kyrien loves to stir things up in classroom discussions; he enjoys a scholarly challenge and what he describes as “diving into Thacher’s intellectual hotbed.” His provocative and compelling Senior Exhibition on inter-racial relationships was a tour de force, challenging the audience to consider the radically changing views in America today. In the dormitory, Kyrien is fun-loving and passionate, a popular friend because he’s also committed to being open, honest, and engaged. And on the athletic field…wow! This young man is the real deal—he’s fit, he’s talented, he’s smart, and he’s all about team, a potent combination on any field, court, or track. As Kyrien himself states about any challenge, if you do the work, show patience, and enjoy what you do, “everything else more or less lines up.” As we reflect on Kyrien’s many accomplishments over these three years, we’d say things have lined up pretty well indeed.

“What’s shakin’, Baby?” Never flashy, but willing to take the stage when it matters; never self-aggrandizing, but always leading; certainly not an extrovert, but often the one who pulls everyone into the circle, Evan is loved, respected, and admired as a successful student, athlete, outdoorsman, actor, musician, and leader. Though we’d all agree he’s a man of few words, he can be counted on in class to see the connection and bring a discussion into focus. He can likely sing forever, at campfires, assemblies, and concerts, as the supporting musician or the center-stage star. On the baseball diamond or basketball court, there is no one you want on your team more than Evan; like clockwork, he draws on both his natural talent and tireless work ethic to deliver clutch performances and key plays. And, we discovered just a few weeks ago, this guy can dance! “Entitled to nothing and empowered for anything.” Evan’s approach can be easily traced to his family’s commitment to this sentiment. His gifts are many, but what makes this young man such a treasure is his character, his heart, and his recognition that the best work comes from your own efforts.

Sometimes a name fits perfectly. Considerate, thoughtful, and generous, Gracie has navigated the past four years with an ease of movement, a sense of calm, and an inherent wisdom that have, without question, endeared her to students and faculty alike, both here at Thacher and in Italy, where she spent her junior year studying abroad. A teacher once noted, “I’m guessing Gracie is not a stranger to the adage ‘still waters run deep,’” and there lies the key to Gracie’s approach, influence, and charm. Whether she’s setting the bar in one of her advanced classes, counseling a freshman prefectee through a difficult time, directing the recent production of Grease, promoting the School’s first Community Service Day, or encouraging a teammate on the volleyball court or soccer field, Gracie demonstrates that she has not only an astute intellect but also an exceptional emotional intelligence that engenders trust and garners respect. Add to that a wry sense of humor, a high fun factor, and a huge heart, and it is easy to see why what we will remember most about Gracie is that she was a graceful and gracious friend to all.

Passionate about ideas, dynamic in class, adroit as a thinker, skilled as a wordsmith, Amy is the consummate scholar. Always ready to tackle any text or topic, she is truly excited about learning. Indeed, when most students hear the words “multivariable calculus,” they hesitate—Amy jumps right in. While some feel queasy at the prospect of touching the skeleton and intestines of a horse, Amy feels intrigue. With an unabashed love of learning, Amy always goes above and beyond, a theme that extends well past academics. Her passion for horses is boundless. After winning a coveted spot among the top 10 freshman riders, she subsequently earned an Advanced Rider designation and membership in the elite Silver Dollar Club. Beyond the barns, she has brought insight, compassion, and unbridled enthusiasm to a range of endeavors: participating in the Christian Fellowship club, winning a Literary Society poetry contest, being called the “hardest worker” on her JV basketball team (her coach sheepishly noting that during one-on-one sessions she just loved knocking him around!). Next year when the sun comes up and Amy’s not down at the barns, the place will lose a little luster. We wish her the happiest of trails.

Whip-smart, independent, intellectually curious, and socially engaged, Anna has wells of grace, strength and wisdom from which she draws in myriad ways. Combining a deep and pragmatic understanding of the environmental needs of her generation with the whimsy of a creative soul, she is sure to be a key player in developing effective, sustainable solutions for the future of our planet. Anna’s commitment finds local expression too, whether as a prefect on the Hill or as one of two co-leaders of the HR&S program. In these arenas and in the classroom, Anna’s leadership is quiet, understated, and resonant. She’ll move a stymied discussion forward with just the right comment or question. Her writing exudes both power and elegance, two characteristics that apply to her work in our dance program, which Anna has embraced fully during all four years here. She is as smart as they come and gifted with a visionary mindset born of both self and global awareness. Anna knows she’s got places to go and big things to do. We can’t wait to see what comes next.

An optimistic perspective and enthusiastic nature fuel Willie’s approach; his talent and confidence allow him to make the difficult appear easy. Seamlessly pick up and master the most difficult Honors U.S. History concepts? No problem. Anchor the varsity tennis team’s efforts? No sweat. A gifted analytical thinker and feisty competitor, Willie meets challenges with an indomitable spirit. He tempers his formidable talents with humility and thoughtfulness towards his classmates and genuine altruism in the community, visiting with senior citizens at a local retirement home and teaching tennis to inner-city children during the summer. A fellow classmate recently remarked, “Wherever Willie goes, fun follows.” Indeed, the fun that Willie has manufactured during his time at Thacher is a unique brand, a reflection of the joy that he exudes while pursuing a broad swath of activities. Neither wasteful nor frivolous, Willie’s fun forms the bond of valued friendships, plunges him deeper into his classes, pushes him to excel in the athletic realm, and inspires him to seek unique and rewarding experiences. He is deeply embedded in a senior class that has brought genuine pleasure and revelry to every activity.

It is impossible to spend time with Ellie and not walk away uplifted. Exuberant, cheerful, and optimistic at her very core, Ellie is the person we all want as part of our team, whether that team is varsity volleyball or lacrosse, a challenging class, or Middle School. She is, without question, someone made for the role of freshman prefect—a natural giver of support, encouragement, and full-on bear hugs. Refreshing and truly admirable, Ellie has a resounding strength and healthy perspective that are rooted in her positive outlook. When you combine those qualities with a can-do attitude, passion, and strong work ethic, what you have is a girl who gets the job done and gets it done well. We have seen the impressive results of Ellie’s diligence over the years, including the Playing for Change Foundation benefit concert she co-organized and the fashionable pieces she designed and made for various occasions (including that gorgeous dress she is wearing right now!). Put simply, Ellie is the perfect combination of hands, mind, and heart— and a beautiful reminder of how joyful life can be when you choose to see it that way.

When Kipling said, “If you can keep your wits about you when all others are losing theirs….” he might have been referring to Kelsey. Outward calm disguises the fire, determination, and discipline of this talented and self-possessed young woman. Watch her on the tennis court or the Upper Field and you’ll see both preternatural calm and steely determination on display. In academics, Kelsey’s analytical mind and refined writing are unrivaled. As one teacher shared, “I always saved her papers for last, knowing in advance what a pleasure it would be to read them.” Kelsey’s broad success in the classroom stems from her uncommon ability to really listen, deeply and thoughtfully, before forming her own conclusions. At the core of her many successes lie her unshakeable integrity and drive to be her very best self. Although she saves her ironic, funny, and silly side to share with close friends, peers, and appreciative underclassmen, all of us have been blessed by her kindness, thoughtfulness, and generosity of spirit. From the start, Kelsey clearly embraced the charge “to do the best work in the world that we can,” and while her work here is all done, Kelsey will never fade from our hearts.

In the eyes of our freshman boys, Frank just might be Chiron, the eldest and wisest of the Centaurs. Half-man, half-horse and revered as a great teacher, Chiron mentored many of the most important future heroes of Frank’s beloved Greek mythology. In Thacher’s mythic world, Frank has had a pivotal role in shaping the School’s future heroes—as riders, as young scholars, and as citizens. Gritty and determined, Frank always brings a positive spirit and indefatigable dedication to every part of his day—in the classroom, on the soccer field, or atop his horse Branson. He recognizes that it’s the little moments between friends, human and equine, that define relationships and shape experience. Described by faculty and classmates as “sincere and generous,” “having a lovely demeanor,” and “quite frankly the nicest, most genuine high-schooler I’ve ever met,” Frank galloped into our lives with grace and charm. When he steps off of Branson, he is quite likely to envelop you in a bear-sized abrazo, a treat we’ve all come to expect from this self-described “hugger.” It’s true: Frank has embraced his Thacher experience both literally and figuratively, and we love him for it.

When Viri asked us to donate old clothes last year as part of a fundraising project she developed, no one was surprised. You see, ingenious plans are right in Viri’s wheelhouse. When she created from those discarded items beautiful handbags designed to sell, that too made perfect sense: because resourcefulness and creativity are paramount to this ambitious, industrious soul who has stitched together a path of success and accomplishment during her time at Thacher. For Viri the life of the mind is essential, and her classroom achievement is marked with insistence on excellence and a deep drive to excel. As a student she devoured our curriculum, piling on course after course. Only stern words and the shortness of the day kept her from taking nine courses this fall. Her extracurricular contributions are as broad as her many academic pursuits. Lending her voice to the Chamber Singers, wailing away on the baritone sax in Jazz Band, managing the Barns, helping to run UCT, or assistant directing the musical—she is the glue that keeps every group on task, and the seamstress who takes a little of this and a little of that, and makes a work of art.

Brittany has approached her Thacher career much as she attacks the cross-country course—strategically, diligently, enthusiastically—and what an impressive pace she has set. On the first leg, Brittany demonstrated perseverance. As a sophomore, she picked up speed academically: Engaged and high-spirited, it’s no wonder Brittany’s teachers love having her in class. Junior-year Brittany honed her intellectual and leadership skills and helped propel the cross country, basketball, and lacrosse teams to playoffs and championships. Now, Brittany is crossing the finish line with a flourish, eager to explore a new adventure—a career in nursing. While embracing the challenge of the race, the game, the Trans-Sierra, or the math problem, she has become a force to be reckoned with, but one with a warm heart. Brittany is a revered role model among her charges in the Courts and a thoughtful and supportive friend to many. She has brought her signature smile and contagious enthusiasm both to the family and the school that she loves, and even to the schoolchildren who captured her heart on a journey to East Africa. To be with Brittany is to be uplifted. And as one of her coaches said, “Every team at Thacher could use a Brittany.” We couldn’t agree more.

“When I grow up I want to be Brisha Howe,” said Brisha’s project advisor in her introduction to her Senior Exhibition on medical care costs. This is a wish many others have shared as they have watched Brisha bring compassion and reverence to complex issues and witnessed her transformation as she has moved gracefully through her Thacher years. Tenacious and tough but unfailingly considerate and kind, Brisha is a rock star. The roles she has played are varied: athlete (a thoughtful JV tennis captain and a vicious defender on the soccer field); artist (she’s been an actress, a director, a writer, a photographer, and a singer); scholar (a dedicated AP Envi. Sci. student and analytical writer); and a loyal friend. And, she has played them all true to form—ever humble, kind, and committed, always endeavoring to live by one of her favorite quotations, “Your life is an occasion. Rise to it.” Some might ask, “How can a tenacious athlete be such a talented musician?” Or “How can such a committed student manage to make time for her friends?” The name asks the question, but the girl is the answer. Brisha, you are Howe.

Lightning-fast, Grady quickly and consistently locks in to the big picture, understanding intuitively how details fit together to arrive at a solution. Grady is the “guy that makes things happen”—zeroing in on the salient point in an AP Spanish discussion, cooking up a tasty meal to share around a Golden Trout campfire, making the key save in a big game, or organizing a weekend event. He recognizes that good work involves heart, head and hands-on, and that he is at his best only when he is meticulously prepared to meet the challenge. Strong-willed, selfless, and sharp-minded, Grady is a quintessential team player. But our Grady is never lost in the crowd. His approach to goalkeeping is an apt metaphor for his approach to life: He’s not afraid to be in the firing line, to take responsibility, or to make a mistake; whether he fails or triumphs, he moves on quickly, looking toward the next challenge. As one of his favorite hip-hop lyrics presciently explains, “There’s only one you. Find your heart and put it in the game.” Every day, every minute, Grady is in the game—he’s thinking ahead, and he’s got your back.

Ben Franklin once said “The Constitution only gives people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself.” Well, Jin Ah has not only caught it, she has shared it with all those fortunate enough to cross her path. Coming to Thacher from Durban, South Africa, where, from an early age, she did extensive volunteer work with HIV/ AIDS victims and political refugees, Jin Ah immediately found a home in the Human Rights Group, in Amnesty International and as a Head of Community Service. Her leadership in these groups has helped to remind us how, in our own small way, each of us can make a difference. Jin Ah’s warm heart, concern for others, and perpetually sunny disposition also have served her well in her role as a Hill prefect. On stage, she has delighted us with her musical talents as a member of the String Ensemble and Jazz Band. Jin Ah has brought equal optimism, engagement and commitment to her academic work. One of her teachers remarked, “She has a vibrant personality that helps keep the atmosphere in the class fun and positive.” Vibrant, fun, and positive (oh, yeah, and artistic and loyal, too), that’s our Jin Ah in a nutshell.

We have watched her blossom from a barefoot, pomegranate-eating “fac-brat” into a talented and self-aware young woman. As one admiring faculty member put it, Hannah has “never colored inside the lines” and we are all the richer for it. How many high school seniors can say they designed and created their very own fashion collection, complete with hot pants? Her enthusiasm and outside-the-box approach inspires fellow artists to push their own creativity to further heights and her classmates in other courses to raise their level of discourse. That familiar furrowed brow, that mischievous glint in her eyes, the goofy story, the famous non-sequiturs, the thoughtfulness cloaked in an offhanded remark… Hannah brings wit, warmth, and intelligence to each undertaking. One minute she can be forthright and bold; the next, quiet and pensive. From the outside, she sets a stylish tone to our campus, and from the inside we all can see she has a tender heart and boundless empathy. Hannah, always remember what Dr. Seuss said: “Today you are you, That is truer than true, There’s no one alive Who is youer than you.”

Affable yet resolute, TJ is a stand-up guy, beloved of his peers and respected by his teachers. You don’t have to look too far, though, to sense that he also has a competitive streak a mile wide. Quietly, gently, but firmly, TJ will run you down, glance at the scoreboard (both of them, actually), and surge forward to victory. TJ’s career here has been one joyful journey. A strong student, he is, as one teacher observed, “the complete scientist, always eager to learn from both success and failure.” Seen this way, and that is the way TJ sees it, there are never any failures, just different paths to learning and to eventual success. He also believes that science needs to accept the broader responsibility of environmental sustainability, and much of his summer and extracurricular work has been dedicated to that end. Hardworking, focused, disciplined, involved, TJ brings those same qualities to the soccer field and the track, where the score is more definitive and no less satisfying. TJ steps through our gates a citizen of the world, committed to improving it. He’s got what it takes to do just that.

When Amy’s name is spoken, the scholastic superlatives quickly follow: bright, creative, engaged, diligent. But this is no one-dimensional “phenom” with her nose buried in abstraction. Rather, Amy is upbeat, affable, and ready to share her good cheer and positive vision. Amy relishes true understanding and values the process and joy of learning itself. And her wit is as sharp as they come. Always eager to take on new responsibilities or try new things, she doesn’t rest in complacence or slip into boredom. As co-editor of El Archivero, she has faced both stressful deadlines and challenging decisions with patience and fortitude. No matter the task or situation, Amy takes care of business, working best under pressure and even seeming to enjoy the rush. In her own words, “I’m often overwhelmed with contentment.” She is also a champion of balance in her extracurricular life, gracefully managing both a long-term commitment to service with the joys and challenges of being a prefect. As Amy moves forward with her trademark grace and poise, we know that her boundless energy and depth of character will continue to serve her well.

Since she announced her presence with authority as the Sour Kangaroo in Seussical back in ninth grade, it’s been hard to imagine any Thacher performance without Jackie front and center. Versatile in both dramas and musicals, she authentically inhabits the lives of a range of characters. And the voice! Her thunderous, sultry notes have rocked the Milligan Center with the Jazz Band too many times to count. In a quieter but no less captivating way, Jackie’s voice commands the classroom, raising the level of discourse with her original thinking and nuanced arguments. On the soccer field, she provides a spark on defense; as part of the Environmental Action Committee she championed the merits of the Green Cup Challenge. At the end of a busy day, you will find Jackie back up on the Hill, bringing spontaneity to dorm events and an empathetic ear to her prefectees. Never false, never lofty, she offers straight answers to problems and treats everyone as an equal. We will miss her zest for life and ability to live in the moment. As she leaves our gates we can only hope for one last encore. Jackie, the stage is yours.

Ask anyone who knows Jarrett or lives with him or sees him around the campus, and one of the first things you will hear is how nice he is. While it’s not all kindness and easygoing-ness with Jarrett—he’s a hard-hitting scholar achieving at an impressive level—he always carries himself with humility and an understated style that is true to form. Efficiently tackling a problem in one of his two AP-level math classes, memorizing myriad characters in Mandarin, playing first doubles against the top teams in the league, or helping guide a ticklish discussion with sophomore boys in HR&S, Jarrett gets the job done. If you listen closely, you will almost certainly hear one of his soft-spoken asides that show the real depth of his intellect. During his Senior Exhibition that intellect was on full display as Jarrett explained the space/time continuum as it relates to “warp speed” and left us all silent with wonder. Through it all, Jarrett’s peers and teachers marvel at how well he leads by quiet example. They know, in pursuing his best, he inevitably remains calm even in the face of stress and anxiety; and that stuff about being nice, that’s true, too.

It is not just the horse stuff that conjures up cowboys of old when we think of Daniel. It is his whole way of being. Daniel is a straight shooter who is not afraid to tell you what he thinks. Sometimes this can get him in hot water but usually Daniel’s keen intellect and heart on his sleeve make you reassess a situation from his unique point of view. Like any good ranch hand, Daniel is also willing to roll up his sleeves and get to work. Just ask anyone in the horse department, PTS, or on the Green Team: This boy has a work ethic; that Top Horseman recognition was earned. Daniel is also one tough hombre. Know anyone else who picked up his silver dollar with a broken hand? But don’t let his rough and tough exterior mislead you; Daniel has a keen mind that he loves to use, whether analyzing the importance of Trajan’s Column or comparing the present to the dystopian vision in 1984. Daniel is a student who consistently offers insights that only he could come up with. As he rides north to college, we wish him just enough challenge to keep him interested.

Adventure. Speed. Competition. If you know Carson, you know this young man likes all three; and if he can combine them in one activity, all the better. Who else has landed a double back flip off a ski jump, picked up a silver dollar at a gallop, scored 25 out of 25 at the gun range, and been a top scorer in both lacrosse and soccer? Carson loves a challenge and delights in any opportunity to perform—providing comic relief in this fall’s The Rimers of Eldrich, diving off the high dive, or adding his perspective to an English or Spanish discussion. And, on the field, his lacrosse and soccer coaches and teammates agree that there is no one they would rather have the ball when they are down a goal and time is running out. Like the Z-Boys that he profiled so well in his Senior Exhibition, Carson is all about blazing his own trail— literally (he had an independent in trail work) and figuratively. And he does it all in a calm, humble manner, that makes you root for him even more. Work hard, play hard, do well, have fun. That’s the code that Carson lives by.

Her AP Studio Art painting integrating the work of Klimt, VanGogh and Freud produced both a provocative masterpiece and an apt metaphor for the unique combination of talents and passions that are Irene. A brilliant scholar, an elegant artist, a committed humanitarian, Irene awes and inspires us. She is an academic powerhouse—her stellar record across the board speaks for itself. Described by one of her teachers as “a gem who makes teaching rewarding and fun,” Irene is impressive in the way she approaches ideas from every direction. And who can forget her violin recitals or her dance performances? But these talents tell only a small part of Irene’s story, for she also moves us with her altruism, humility, and generosity. We are grateful to have witnessed Irene’s cheerful wit, her creative intellect, her single-minded dedication to revitalizing The Notes, her devotion to local senior citizens, and so much more both at Thacher and beyond. Irene brings a beautiful blend of cultural sensibilities to Thacher, and we are a better school for her presence among us. Just as in her painting, the combined whole of Irene gives us a window into understanding just what virtuosity and character truly mean.

We’d like to imagine that Shelby’s surname comes from the Spanish verb lucir, to shine. Because shine Shelby does. Effortlessly. She brings warmth and light to any group she is a part of, creating cohesion no matter the crowd. Shelby’s also lightning fast in her efficiency in the classroom, the sports arena, in her ability to execute a plan. Spearhead a fundraiser for two members of our kitchen staff? Nothing a Google Doc can’t fix. Host a huge concert in town, just six weeks into the school year? Not a problem if you start eight months in advance. She is a whirling dervish who will track down every groundstroke on the tennis court and patiently negotiate the midfield for a soccer win. As a scholar, Shelby is astute and mature in her observations and unafraid of good old-fashioned hard work. Her charges in the dorm count on her to be kind, funny, and even a bit zany, whether she’s merrily donning a spaceman’s suit to tend the beehives or bravely singing a song she just learned at a coffee house. Indeed, Ms. Luce has shined her light on our community, and she’s made the place glow.

Nan has a rare gift, and as is the case with all great singers, that gift is more than a voice. Nan’s capacity as a songwriter and performer is deeply rooted in her significant intellectual capacity, her curiosity, her strong connection to the world around her, and her commitment to making sense of it. Nan has demonstrated these traits in every aspect of her life at Thacher—her genuine love of learning, her friendships, her compassion, and her work rate. So we have not been surprised to witness her high achievement as an engaged and passionate student. We have not been surprised to see her thrive as a freshman prefect. We were not surprised when she chose to spend half of her junior year studying in Hanoi. And we have never been surprised when she has taken the stage and left us awestruck by the exquisite beauty of her voice and the everyday magic of her lyrics delicately united with a meter and melody of her creation. And that’s because she has taught us to expect amazing things from this unflappable, worldly, joyful, going-places young woman. It’s a lesson the world out there is about to learn.

One word comes to mind when we think of Laney: power. This girl is a three-fold embodiment of power. Powerful mind, powerful body, powerful spirit. A top scholar, she is able, curious, industrious, and focused. She is also playful, creative, and selfless. She puts keen intellect to good use through focused study; she also helps others to excel. Her teachers respect her, honor her, and love having her in their classes. Stepping onto the track, or wielding oars in a scull, she is the picture of determination and tough work ethic. She pushes herself mightily—lifting weights, training, sprinting— while she joyfully encourages others to follow her example. With all who bask in her light, Laney is fun, caring, and supportive. She thinks of others first. She supports those who need help, in any way or any fashion. She is, yes, an example to all of us of what happens when native talent meets curiosity, solid effort, and generosity of spirit. She is powerful, and we have a powerful appreciation of what she has done for all of us here at Thacher.

Spin a globe, set your finger down anywhere you like, and there’s a pretty good chance that Calum has some friends there. He’s visited every continent on the globe and lived in Bangkok, Tokyo, Shanghai, Ann Arbor, Pittsburgh, and, of course, Ojai. All these stamps on his passport represent new opportunities to share his relaxed charisma with others. His convivial manner, witty asides, and positive, warm nature have charmed the lot of us. And while much of Calum’s appeal lies in his easygoing, fun-loving approach to life, put a lacrosse stick in his hands and he can turn on the intensity or sit him in a math class and, as one of his teachers pointed out, “this boy is the unquestioned star of the class, producing consistently superb results.” Calum steers away from the common path, reveling instead in novelty and the unexpected. Looking for an independent? How about treasure hunting? Learning to play a musical instrument? Forget the guitar or piano—give this guy a ukulele. We’re glad that Calum has found an idyllic home here, and we are certain that wherever on Earth life takes him, adventure, excitement, and friends are sure to follow.

You know when you see it—that mischievous, impish sparkle in Maddie’s eyes—that you’re in for some fun. We love this side of Maddie: the laughing, adventurous spirit that’s up for anything. And then there’s another look: the laser-like focus that means it’s time for business. Earning varsity letters in the double digits, excelling in advanced courses, leading the Middle School prefects and sitting on the Judicial Council cannot come easily, no matter how easy Maddie makes it look. Managing it all requires both natural talent and a work ethic second to none. An incredible positivity and serene toughness in the personality mix does not hurt, either. Maddie, characteristically, was the defensive stopper in all three of her sports, drawn not to the glory of offense but to the unsung role of protector. And so here we see yet another side of Maddie, the one that encourages and nurtures, that empathizes when someone else is in pain. If it is true that the eyes are the windows to the soul, then Maddie has selflessly and unceasingly shown us the many facets that make up hers, and we’ve all been the fortunate beneficiaries of the view.

To capture the essence of Lucy you must pay attention to the details—the beauty of horse and rider soaring together over a jump in competition, the nuanced integration of a quotation in an analytical essay, the elegant flair of a perfectly chosen accessory, an masterfully cooked ‘dilla at Open House. Precise, measured, genuine, chic—that is Lucy. The heart and soul of our English equestrian program, she has starred in IEA competitions while also showing younger, less experienced riders the ropes and the reins. Even as a freshman, Lucy was a rider whom seniors predicted would ultimately captain the team. Outside the arena, Lucy has established an academic record that reflects her thorough, organized, thoughtful approach and her unusual insights and ability to find subtlety in any text. On the Hill, Lucy is warm, caring, and fun, reaching out to connect with her charges and using her wry humor to positive effect. During her Senior Exhibition, which combined her love of history with that of fashion to reveal the innovations of Coco Chanel, we couldn’t help but think Madame Chanel would join us as one of Lucy’s admirers. Like her icon, Lucy knows how to make the simple things beautiful—and though you might not see them this morning, she’s never afraid to wear pearls.

Ian connects. Combining unusual warmth and humility with a dry wit and contagious sense of fun, he has an uncanny ability to offer comfort or rational understanding, as others always sense his authenticity and empathy. Taking the lead in reshaping the HR&S Program, digging into the tricky ideas of microbiology, encouraging his prefectees to more effectively balance work with play, or working in sync with teammates to get the ball down the court, Ian brings genuine intellectual curiosity and an old-fashioned work ethic to each situation with the best possible effect. He thinks independently and communicates his cogent ideas with skill, intuitively understanding that “the trials of today make the rewards of tomorrow just that much sweeter.” Ian’s deep ability to connect extends to the backcountry as well. As one faculty member who had Ian along on a pack trip commented: “Ian is one of only a handful of students I’ve taken camping to whom I would entrust my life with confidence.” High praise, but undoubtedly well deserved. A thousand-mile bike trek? A cross-Canada canoe trip? With Ian along for the ride, going the distance is always a pleasure.

“He may be built like Rambo, but his strongest muscle truly is his heart,” writes a classmate, and we agree. Equally passionate about discussing the beauty of a passage from The Sun Also Rises, a well-executed soccer play, or the folk music of the Quebecois, Will’s not afraid to revel in the small things. His knack for sartorial splendor reminds us all how important it is to enjoy life: sporting a kilt at Formal Dinner, or donning a coat and tie to tackle the SATs—he takes advantage of any moment to dress for the occasion. Part of Will’s everyday success is that ability to make things seem fun and easy. And his over-the-top enthusiasm for getting his hands dirty is irresistible. Cooking up a pizza in the outdoor oven, introducing his young charges to the miracle of the wilderness, dribbling down the field with both precision and reckless abandon, or charming a rapt audience as he explains the mystery of savants, the flash of that smile tells you Will’s all-in. A source of wisdom and positive energy, Will has won our hearts with the power of his own.

Artistically gifted and unfailingly humble, Casey is a star who never seeks the spotlight. Singing, dancing, acting, or directing, Casey is a natural on, and behind, the stage. Yet, true to form, she always cheers for her friends more loudly than she’d ever dream of championing herself. Casey’s talents reach far beyond the confines of the Milligan Center; she excels in her academic pursuits, demonstrating her penchant for math and science—which she approaches with the heart of a poet, not exactly your usual combination. Head of the Literary Society, HR&S leader, and prefect, she aptly juggles the competing demands of her activities and a rigorous course load. At the end of the day, however, Casey always comes back to the stage, where you’ll find her collaborating on an original production for Spring Sing, initiating the arrangement of a song for the Chamber Singers for ToadFest, singing a solo, performing with the Dance Ensemble, or working tech in her few precious minutes of spare time. When she takes on the East Coast this fall, we know her poise, many talents, and warm spirit will win her fans there, just as they have here on our stage.

There is a certain formality to Justin’s manner that seems appropriate for such a dedicated and accomplished student, the dignity in his posture an apparent embodiment of the many focused hours he invests in the multiple tasks at hand. Whether he’s composing a computer program, analyzing data essential to the design of our proposed bio-swale, running towards his goal of 400 miles in one summer, or weighing the merits of difficult cases presented before the Judicial Council, Justin stands out. Deflecting praise at every turn, he devotes himself to the greater good. He gives of himself generously: to his classmates, to his teammates, to his prefectees, to the Debate Society, the camping program, the Meditation Club and community service, and the list goes on. He gives his time, his sweat, his sympathy, and his tremendous wisdom. What we love most about Justin, however, is that delightful moment in every conversation when formality gives way to that easy grace. His shoulders drop, his eyes light up and that knowing smile says all. We adore his sense of humor; we stand in awe of his intellect; most of all, we thank him for his leadership, his hard work, and his innate goodness.

He is the house built upon a rock of intellectual curiosity and meaningful relationships. This Big Sky Country native exemplifies what it means to be your best self, bringing his rich and warm spirit to each task he pursues. Whether he’s hustling on the soccer pitch or baseball field, singing at a coffee house or playing the trombone in the Jazz Band, or being an honest, caring, and optimistic leader in the dorm, Jake loves and exemplifies the Thacher life. His School Year Abroad experience in Zaragoza, Spain, helped him develop his understanding that our vast world is interconnected, and that common humanity means that our similarities outweigh our differences. An edge-of-the-seat learner, Jake impresses with strong skills and often-impeccable work, alternately soaking up and dishing out insights all at once. In the classroom and beyond, he is fully invested in the people and pursuits he cares about. There is a saying that friendship is essential to the soul. By bringing his deep compassion, intellect, and essential affability to our community, Jacob has enriched all of our souls, and we thank him for that.

Some people fear that the spotlight will reveal blemishes, but J.J. embraces it because it only makes him shine brighter. The spotlight, for its part, knows to follow J.J.’s every move. And it’s hard work to keep up with him: from yet another absurd turn in an Indoor Committee skit to a campfire storytelling session to a Thoreau discussion in English class to the lead in Six Degrees of Separation to capping his Senior Exhibition with a demonstration of newfound ballet moves, J.J. has shone brightest when there was nowhere to hide. Even on a sunlit athletic field, J.J. is the first guy you notice, with or without the short-lived braids he featured this winter. In athletics J.J. is everywhere at once, always at the center of the action, playing with reckless joy. In these four years J.J. has has made the most of the spotlight, sharing himself with us fully and fearlessly. And so now, as we shine it on him one final time, we’ll hope for one last broad smile, assured that the light will have the good sense to follow him wherever he goes.

Who among us hasn’t had her day resurrected by one of Kallie’s quick and stunning smiles? They’re powerful because they come straight from the heart—and Kallie’s heart brims with kindness, with passion, with optimism and determination. Its qualities have infused her every move at her Casa de Piedra home. We see them as she digs an impossible ball on the volleyball court, as she counsels a friend in a quiet moment, as she challenges a classmate around the seminar table. Don’t let the smile mislead you; this young woman knows how to speak her mind. And we’ve learned to listen closely knowing that Kallie’s insights are rooted not in what she’s been told but in what she observes. A true critical thinker, she approaches a novel, a math problem, an environmental issue with an eye towards dissecting, understanding, and exploring rather than simply solving. That capacity to dive into complexity is nowhere more apparent than on the Milligan Center stage. Whether as Bellatrix or Elizabeth, as a hip-hop rapper from Golden Knockout Productions or director of the Spring Sing, Kallie knows how to captivate an audience—and sometimes it’s as simple as a smile.

With the sly precision of a magician, Amar has worked his wizardry over our campus. Microphone crisis at assembly? Track meet with a PA system? Any and every performance in the Milligan Center? It’s Amar’s smooth sleight of hand that pulls together so much more than light and sound. While he may be behind the scenes when it comes to tech, in the classroom things are very different. With the instincts of a true mathematician, Amar can visualize lines, planes, and surfaces unlike most mere mortals. In humanities, he is refreshingly contrarian and pragmatic in his approach to global issues. His Senior Exhibition on the Arab Spring was impeccable, leading to an invitation to present again to the sophomore history classes. A daredevil who can’t pass up a good rollercoaster, a lifelong devotee of the piano, Amar is a chameleon whose skills are broad in scope but razor sharp in execution. By contributing his honest, formidable mind, critical eye and conscientious devotion to all things Thacher, Amar has elevated all our endeavors. Now it’s time for him to step out front and take a bow.

Smart, curious, kind, deeply talented, and unwavering in his determination, Shravan models the values to which we all aspire with a winning and unassuming humility. He demonstrates excellence and integrity in every realm—academic, athletic, and extra-curricular—committing selflessly to our school’s community even as he pursues his clearly articulated personal goals. Whether anchoring the percussion section of the Jazz Band, heading the biodiesel initiative, or guiding sophomore boys to a deeper understanding of and commitment to Thacher’s core values, Chevy leads his peers with a steady head and remarkable generosity of spirit. He influences others subtly by the strong example he sets. Shravan’s unflappable grace under pressure has sustained him in difficult times and inspired our entire community. His powerful capacity to stay grounded in the present moment helps him to maintain his trademark positive attitude. It is no wonder that he dedicated his Senior Exhibition to the study of happiness and its effects on the human brain. Having worked hard to develop his natural talents to the fullest over the course of his four years here, Shravan is poised to take on the world beyond our gates with his quintessential positivity. We will miss him dearly.

The truth is everyone loves Sarah. With her million-dollar smile and sunny demeanor, she has wrapped her arms around this school for the warmest of embraces. Her positive energy has flowed over our campus: in the classroom, in the beautiful music she shares on stage and at the local nursing homes, and in the dedication she demonstrates to her teams as both a player and a manager. In fact, by the end of the varsity boys’ basketball season, it was Sarah, team mom, who was giving inspirational pep talks in the locker room. Speaking no fewer than four languages and facile with an equal number of instruments, Sarah’s talents are broad and deep. As a freshman prefect, co-head of Model UN and the Christian Fellowship organization, she has brought joy, optimism, loyalty, and fun to those fortunate enough to be in her care. Last spring, Sarah was selected by our faculty as recipient of the Marvin Shagam Award, given to the junior who has made a difference in the Thacher community through force of character, goodness, vision, and love for all God’s creation. Well, that sums her up perfectly, and just proves the initial point: Everyone loves Sarah.

As we count on the sun rising each day, so we count on Melanie: her impeccable habits of mind, her dedication to intellectual endeavor, her insight and intense focus. We rely on her competitive nature and team spirit on the cross-country course or the soccer field, and we’ve come to expect that with her “game-for-anything attitude” she will meet challenges head-on and find ways to succeed. Her equanimity sometimes belies her intensity. As one teacher wrote: “Melanie is the most cheerful pit bull you’ve ever seen; she’ll grab onto a hard problem and shake it until it gives up.” Daily we have witnessed Melanie’s leadership, not just in the classroom and on the athletic field, but in our community. Her playful nature, calming influence, and ability to make everyone feel welcome has left its mark, for a better role model would be hard to find. We have become accustomed to her genuine kindness and thoughtful, spiritual core that guides her through all she does. As the sun warms our bodies, Melanie warms our hearts. And as one of her sophomore charges shares, “Melanie is the type of person where simply to meet her is to bring more happiness into your life.” Amen.

When Cody speaks, everyone listens. He never wastes words, and his insight is profound. Cody’s values are certain, his actions decisive, his vision precise. As we might have predicted from somebody with such a quintessential cowboy name, Cody found his niche within the rough-and-tumble, outdoorsy focus of Thacher. A dead-eye shot with a perfect round of 25 to his credit, he has headed the Gun Club, brought home the Vaquero Cup, and scooped up the silver dollar. Hard work defines Cody, and he prides himself on his perseverance, which has led him to academic success. One teacher writes, “Cody’s consistent work ethic and his willingness to give his best effort to any endeavor make him a pleasure to teach.” Athletics bring out his very best; he is passionate in pursuit of his goals—a perfect pitch or a textbook-form tackle. When asked about Cody, his teammates and coaches wax poetic, describing him as “our backbone,” “the heart and soul of the group,” and “pound-for-pound the toughest kid on the field.” One peer said it best: “He’s not flashy or vocal, but we always know he’s there.” We have benefited so greatly from his “there” being “here.”

Where in the world has Theo not called home? Rome, Addis Ababa, The Hague and Nairobi are just a few he’s already checked off the list. With his significant international experience and strong family ties, Theo defies categorization and is anything but typical. His life experiences are vast, and his gifts are many and readily shared: an honest and inviting smile, a thunderous right foot reminiscent of Cristiano Ronaldo, a warm heart, an inimitable ability to tell a story, and an intellect honed by a lifetime of observing his environs. In all that he does, Theo is in tune and connected; his room has always been the center of dorm life, and his leadership role in Upper School is a natural fit given his ability to connect with adults and his peers. In the classroom, Theo engages best in those areas, like English and history, where he has been able to “tell his story” and share his greater world view. Theo has a sharp mind, yet, more importantly, he leads with his heart. He has spent four years at Casa de Piedra, and we hope that Theo now thinks of this house of stone as his home.

Cool Jas. Smooth Jas. Improvisational Jas. Indeed, Jasmynn is all those things—cool-headed on the basketball court, smooth in her stride as she runs, ready to improvise as needed in any competition: just bring it on. She has delivered on the court with style: a last-second three to win the game, some swarming defense on a full-court press, or the “one” in a box and one. Off the court, her open, outgoing personality makes her good company any time, anywhere. As a prefect, she regularly finds just the right way to pick up someone having a tough day. In the classroom, Jasmynn enjoys languages, where she has honed her Spanish and added French. Her teachers applaud the steady effort and positive attitude that she brings to any assignment. Perhaps the clearest blending of Jasmynn’s strengths of consistency, depth, and involvement was revealed in her Senior Exhibition where she combined comprehensive research with a deeply personal presentation on modern slavery. So what makes our Jas great? In the words of Louis Armstrong, “Man, if you have to ask what it is, you’ll never know.”

Watch Zane perform on the field and you see in his every movement grit, perseverance, leadership. Whether in his favorite sport of football (Offensive Player of the Year in our division in the CIF), in lacrosse (high scorer as a junior), or in soccer (where his defense often made the goalkeeper’s job that much easier), Zane’s tenacity and heart are always on full display. On the field he epitomizes the notion of leading by example: His level of commitment inspires his teammates to give 100 percent. But don’t let his achievements in athletics blind you to his other talents. Anyone who has seen his art, especially his recent forays into new media, knows that his skills and passions reach far beyond the field. Zane is a seasoned and skilled outdoorsman whose depth of knowledge, displayed in his Senior Exhibition on wilderness survival, only reinforced our belief that Zane’s the right man to have by your side in a dicey backcountry situation. No matter what the endeavor, if Zane truly commits to it, you can be sure he will approach it with the intensity that has been the hallmark of all his best moments at Thacher.

Driven by a palpable commitment to genuine inquiry, Molly seems to incarnate Rainer Maria Rilke’s directive to try to love the questions and all things unresolved in our hearts; her interest is not so much in identifying immediate, explicit answers to her many mature and provocative questions, but rather to “live the questions now” with the intent of living her way into the answers as she charts her own way forward. Complementing her passionate intellectual curiosity is a devotion to community service and a visionary commitment to enhancing the School’s stated mission to teach students to be responsible stewards of the land. Last year Molly single-handedly envisioned and championed the notion of introducing pigs into our school’s food waste cycle; in one short year her pig project has become our flagship program for sustainable living, an indication of Molly’s capacity for vision and the plain old hard work that bring vision to fruition. Krishnamurti, the subject of Molly’s extraordinary Senior Exhibition, said that “Truth is a pathless land.” We wish Molly godspeed as she charts her own way forward into the pathless land beyond our gates.

We can’t resist: “Good things come in small packages”… and leave large impressions when they go. That’s Leigh’s impression: large. She has danced her way into our hearts, stood tall for human rights, and made it easy for her charges to look up to her. As one of the lucky ones exclaims, “Leigh is always cheery and funny, always concerned about others. She will go out of her way to make me smile.” Leigh always says YES, the consistent and selfless leader, all without need for accolade or fanfare. We’ve recognized her aptitude for languages, and she has made a particular contribution in helping younger students, “showing,” as one teacher noted, “the leadership we expect from our seniors, while simultaneously displaying her own eagerness to learn.” We all know Leigh’s heart is big, her spirit (and laughter) large. But more impressive is Leigh’s ability to notice the small things... subtle changes in a person’s demeanor that prompt her to action. Leigh will make you laugh or offer just the right advice on what baked good will brighten your day. In ways big and small, Leigh has left an indelible mark here.

Committed to all things political, on the local and global scale, Taylor is a direct, dedicated, and headstrong pot of gold. Her “never say quit” attitude turns problems into solutions. After learning that one sixth of the world’s population does not have access to safe water, she created OneRight Water as proof that she is not one to sit back and wallow in the enormity of international issues or be paralyzed by them. Armed with a camera, a plan, and determination, Taylor is an unstoppable, multi-talented, and intellectually curious young woman. Many a debate team has left the podium humbled after witnessing the power of a focused, steely-eyed Taylor. Her friends and charges in the Courts cherish Tayto’s fun, quirky, tell-it-like-it-is side. Teachers applaud her hard work and steadfast approach to her studies. Audiences will never forget her spot-on performances, like the crotchety Evelyn Jackson in the The Rimers of Eldrich. Willing to see the best in all of us, Taylor has captured not just our faces for the yearbook, but our hearts as well. She cares, she understands, and she’s determined to be part of the change our world seeks.

There’s never a dull moment while Conrad is around. Our resident sparkplug serves as the driving force behind class discussions, dorm activities, and team drills. His scholarship displays this drive in abundance; classroom Conrad has the chops to which he adds a welcome dose of pluck; he knows how to combine determination with raw talent to get the job done. Those of us lucky enough to witness his Senior Exhibition won’t soon forget his extraordinary mastery of his material, as he rifled off catalogues of names and dates connected to the Sicilian Mafia from memory and without a moment’s hesitation. If passion defines Conrad’s daily approach to living, in athletics his energy rises to a fever pitch. A talented and unrelenting competitor, he has been on the varsity tennis and soccer teams since his arrival. His coaches laud his “quickness, passion, understanding, hustle, and intense desire to succeed.” Wherever there is noise or fun on campus, you can count on finding Conrad right in the thick of things. Talented, personable, and passionate, this young man is one to follow.

Did you know that you can cook and eat stinging nettles, or that Blue Dick’s Corn is edible? Camp with Rachel, and she can educate you on comestible plants as well as outfit you for the trip when you visit her at camp supply—and Rachel knows her outfits. She can also give you suggestions for plants to use as alternatives to prescription medicines, as she did so convincingly during her Senior Exhibition. Committed to sustainability, Rachel worked diligently to revitalize the composting program, showing she is not afraid of physical labor or rotting food, spending many hours rebuilding the massive composting structure, creating signs to educate our community, and doing orientations with students to get the program running on a daily basis. Bright and attentive in class, she is always looking for ways to push herself as a writer and thinker, although she prefers to be in front of the class, giving an oral presentation with her usual verve and organization. She loves to compete and has made significant contributions to both the tennis and the track teams, matching her rocket serve with some great sprinting. Trained naturalist, organized environmentalist, and just a little competitive, Rachel was with us two years too few.

With a ready smile and an optimistic spirit, Leo passionately embraces every opportunity in life. From the start his impact has been powerful and positive: in the classroom, in an intense lacrosse face-off, behind a camera lens, in the woodshop, and perhaps most notably, leading our community to environmental action. With compassion, smarts, and hard-work, through example and ingenious original raps, he has galvanized peers, faculty, and children behind bees, pigs, and composting. Reminding us to turn off our lights, conserve water, and go meatless on Mondays, Leo has shrunk Thacher’s carbon footprint. His intellectual sensibility and trademark tone of relaxed intensity elevates discussion in and out of the classroom. Open minded and brave, Leo is unafraid of any challenge, be it on the gridiron, on the shores of Maine at his beloved Chewonki, or on another continent. A born leader who is exceptionally articulate, organized, and intensely engaged, this young man is poised to make a difference in our global and increasingly fragile world. We are certain Leo’s wanderlust will take him far and wide, and we feel particularly blessed that, for even a little while, he called Thacher home.

Although Ana’s journey into the world beyond our gates is just beginning, in many ways she has already voyaged further than many ever will. She has travelled both literally, coming to the US from Ecuador with her family when she was 4, and figuratively, trekking across intellectual terrain both challenging and appealing. Wherever she goes, what impresses people most about Ana is that she’s passionate about knowing her world intimately, accurately, and comprehensively. She isn’t interested in surface impressions or shallow understanding; she demands more of herself than that. One of Ana’s teachers described her as “one of the hardest-working students that I have ever had the pleasure to teach,” while another commented that if students were rock stars, Ana would have groupies among the faculty. Ana has proven an inspiration to so many others. To list her leadership roles might take us all morning and still couldn’t begin to capture what Ana has meant to this community. Courageous to the core, and always willing to engage—to make us laugh, to make us think—she’s made Thacher a better school. That we’ve been a stop on her road to success is our great honor.

One of the mottos of Emiliano’s hometown of Chicago is “Make big plans, make no small plans.” If you ask about his goals for the future, Emiliano’s response reflects the unique intersection of cultures that make up who he is: “ I would love to study in China; go to Paracho, Mexico; build my own guitar; and buy my mother a house.” No small plans here! Whether in AP English, biology or Chinese class, Emiliano comes in every day ready to discuss and grapple with big ideas. His Senior Exhibition on the antihero was the result of his reflection on the responsibility he feels to help his family and his community back home. And Emiliano has managed to stay true to himself and his roots while diving into Thacher life, which is no easy task. Whether he’s horse camping in the Sierra, helping to run Indoor, mentoring prefectees in Upper School, or working on a series of pieces for AP Studio Art, Emiliano brings zest and enthusiasm to every task. Today we applaud one last time as Emiliano sets out to make those big plans a reality.

Of Ashley one teacher writes, “Her work is as consistent and strong as Ojai sunshine in July.” Hard working, motivated, and passionate, Ashley thrives on challenges: crafting an essay on Huck Finn’s crisis of conscience, considering the importance of conserving our farmland after reading Fast Food Nation, using just the right filter to make her photo, conquering a new and tricky climbing route. Ashley’s disparate interests seamlessly coalesce into a passion for nature and a drive to conserve the beauty of our world. Not content to learn just theoretically, Ashley translates enthusiasm into action: working in her spare time at the UCSB Marine Science Institute leading beach tours and programs at the floating lab; assisting graduate students in their research on the effects of carbon nanotubes on mussels. Pounding the pavement, swimming lap after lap, and braving endless miles on her road bike took Ashley all the way to the National Triathalon Championships and earned her a spot on the US team competing in London this summer. This young woman is going places, taking a path uniquely her own, guided by curiosity, boundless energy and a commitment to going the distance.

Joe’s love of the outdoors is deep and enduring, and covers all terrains. A self-proclaimed Type-T personality (T for “thrill”), Joe jumps in whole hog to his passions. He wants to try it, to feel it, to understand it, from inside it. Signing on as a deckhand on a tall ship; working summers at Golden Trout camp; donning his planks, ducking the ropes, and skiing a radical line down a mind-blowing incline: Joe approaches all with joyous abandon. When not inside an adventure, Joe is digging in intellectually—connecting experience to concepts in Environmental Science; understanding how thrill-seeking can be addictive in psychology; honing his interpretation of light and dark in Heart of Darkness; shaping his own stories with increasing intentionality and power. His natural curiosity and his understanding of the power of shared experience have motivated him to engage in diverse activities at Thacher. Kind, strong, knowledgeable and always eager to roll up his sleeves, Joe models leadership with quiet authority: he’s an Advanced Rider, he’s been a stalwart in our drama productions, and he’s head of our ski club, sponsoring adventurous weekend trips and inspiring movies. Certainly, he’s stoked in all of us an appreciation for the alley-oop double flatspin 900!

Intensity and focus define Jack’s approach to all of the facets of his Thacher life. Simply not satisfied with “good enough,” Jack combines a tireless work ethic with a heavy dose of brainpower, and his results are nearly always spectacular, in the classroom, on the field or track, and most especially on the court. Jack isn’t just passionate about basketball, he loooooves basketball… it’s serious business! 10,000 shots in three months, summer basketball camps, and hours and hours on end practicing lay-ups, three pointers and free throws all because, as Jack puts it, “Whether I miss a shot or make one, it always feels good to let the ball roll off my fingers and fly towards the hoop.” That he brings the same focus to a class discussion, to a problem set or a lab writeup is nothing short of remarkable. But all work and no play would make Jack a dull boy, and that’s certainly not true for this fun loving and funny young man. Thinking about his Thacher life, Jack says, “It’s not always about cramming work into your brain; we’ve had a lot of fun, too.” Yes we have, Jack. Thank you.

When we walk into the Mullys’ Open House, the first thing we’re likely to see is Emma—baking up cookie dough, handing out ice-cream bars, helping color a giant mural, making sure all the dishes are washed and all the crumbs wiped up. She delights in community, in connecting with and caring for others. But before you start thinking of her as the sweet and helpful girl in the apron, take heed: Emma is a tenacious and focused student, a thoughtful and inclusive leader, and a worthy opponent—on the courts, on the field, in a friendly debate, or at a game of wits. AP Calc, AP Bio, AP Physics, AP Psych? Check. Emma is a keen-witted and committed student who knows how to set a goal and reach for it, even when the going gets tough. Yet her tenacity never overwhelms her awareness of others. Whether she’s helping to build an orphanage in Cambodia, volunteering at Ojai’s Humane Society, or cheering on a classmate, she’s constantly reaching out. If we didn’t believe it before we met Emma, we all now know Canadian maple

syrup is definitely sweetest.

Equal parts intellectual, activist, and friend, Nu is the bright star whose intelligence, genuine compassion and good humor attract people to her orbit. A scholar of considerable breadth, Nu finds joy in understanding concepts across the academic spectrum and seeks a keen, mature sense of the complexity of the world. Quick with a laugh, a piece of wisdom, or a new idea, Nu’s positive nature reaches all corners of our campus: guiding admissions tours, heading Community Service, and injecting new life into United Cultures of Thacher. She has exercised exemplary leadership in the Courts, where her fortunate sophomore charges truly love and respect her. Often lighthearted—even plain silly—Nu is nonetheless always there to provide thoughtful, generous counsel. Beyond the dorm, Nu questions, analyzes and offers solutions for the sometmes-thorny issues of social justice that affect our campus and our world. With her selfless ambition, sharp intellect, generosity of spirit, and solid sense of self, Nu is poised to do great things, to improve people’s day-to-day lives—her simple but noble goal in life. She has made us exceptionally proud since the day we first met her, and we know what’s to come will be spectacular.