Thacher's 120th Commencement

At the heart of Thacher's annual commencement exercises are senior tributes, when each graduate takes a turn in front of the assembled crowd for a moment of public recognition.

These tributes are neither summaries of achievements nor exhaustive catalogs of each student's strengths and weaknesses. Rather, as Head of School Michael Mulligan has put it, they are "first impressions ratified by multiple examples over time." As such, they are pieced together by hand out of scraps of conversations and advisor letters; they capture the input of peers, coaches, and teachers. Sometimes they conceal inside jokes, but always they aim to illuminate the contributions each of the 62 members of CdeP 2009 made to the Thacher community, and to trace some of the qualities that will determine their post-Thacher trajectories.

As carefully crafted as these tributes are, the order of their delivery is, by tradition, random. Below, however, we present them alphabetically by last name.

A slide show of Thacher's 120th Commencement Weekend can be viewed in the Media Gallery. Individual images may be downloaded here.

Christopher Edward Allison
Chris is a kind of stubborn fellow, a little prickly, with high standards that he applies equally to himself and to others. He has made his life here one of discipline, dedication, and achievement.  When you accept the responsibility to make something happen, then, in Chris’ view, something has just got to happen. He has no patience for whiners and no tolerance for excuses. Chris knows how to laugh and how to make others laugh with him, but the fact is that the people he admires most have “a certain level of control over their actions and the world around them.” He is certainly one of them.

It is not surprising that Chris is committed to running cross country, where the responsibility is all your own and the results are clearly measurable.  There is something satisfying in running against the clock, which is really running against yourself. As Head techie, Chris finds another world to conquer, and his reasons for involvement are strikingly simple: “I have dedicated such a vast amount of time to doing tech for two reasons, I enjoy it and I feel that at this point it’s my responsibility.”  Control and responsibility, pounding the feet, setting the lights just right, cuing the music exactly, shifting the set in the dark according to a precise schedule, these are things that Chris loves best. Modestly, he says that he succeeds because “I am willing to put in the time and the effort to get things done.”  Really, it comes from a unique sense of self, talented and committed to meeting any and all responsibilities.  

Katherine Hrisanthi Bartzokis
If you can build it or watch it or contemplate it, Katy is interested. In many ways, she has never left the beloved Chewonki Peninsula where she spent the fall of her junior year learning how deeply admirable people appreciate farm chores, herding sheep, and chopping wood. She carries that ethic with her every minute of every day, and her meticulous journals, her first composed in Maine and her latest as she compiled her notes on the natural history of the Sespe, are simply evidence of that: closely observed, thoroughly annotated, brilliantly analyzed. She is always accompanied by her impressive intellect and her equally impressive level of passionate commitment.    

Maybe no one but Uncle Jack has spent more time in the Sespe than Katy, and he had a more than fifty-year head start. She accompanied nearly every freshman horse trip this year, and completed her tour by taking a long weekend on her own, walking out of campus, climbing over the ridge, and then spending time by herself in Patton’s. As she has written, “I learned the value of silence and listening with an open mind. I’ve reinforced that value by working with my hands and communing more deeply with nature.” Packer, carpenter, hiker, naturalist, and rider, Katy leaves content with her choices and confident of her direction.   

Kaitlin Marin Bond
Kaitlin is both sensible and practical, and if that does not sound like much, then you don’t know Kaitlin. She has taken sensibleness and practicality to new heights. Let’s start with her sense of her own potential: “I thought I had met my potential, but I now realize that I can go as far as I want in life and it all depends on how much I concentrate on what I want to do and how hard I work towards my goals.” That seems simple and direct and looking at the grades she earns, pretty successful. How about friendship:  “Loyalty, having a good outlook on life, honesty, humor, and hard work are all things that I admire. Those five qualities can create a good and strong relationship between people.” That sounds like a plan. And as for sports, well, as one coach said, “she has a great head—completely unflappable” which is the most sensible way to be.  

In fact, Kaitlin’s athletic prowess is one of the best ways to understand her.  She is tenacious and physically tough.  As a defender, she can stop a drive in either basketball or lacrosse and literally stand her opponent up.  She is good because she is smart, because she cares, and mostly because she works harder than anyone else.  Her work ethic is grounded in the essence of her being, and she believes absolutely in it: “I know how to work hard and I try to be a great listener and not let my friends down.”  Actually, she doesn’t much let of anything down.   

Kelly Joy Brown-Lewis
It is hard to imagine where, exactly, the mainstream of the periphery is located, but wherever that is, you’d probably find KJ there. Independent as a cuss, emotionally tuned, energetic, involved, intellectually brilliant, KJ offers any institutional environment a host of challenges. Immensely likable, consistently attached, seemingly cooperative, and always sensitive to the feelings of others, KJ rarely confronts the status quo. Often, however, she chooses to ignore it. Warnings, appeals, threats, and punishments, she accepts them all with her winning smile and a sense of mature understanding that makes you question your standards rather than become annoyed at her unwillingness to conform.  

If you have enough sense to step back with her and look at things from her point of view, you can see the mad consistency in her approach. There are things that are important (like learning and loving and sharing and growing) and there are things that are not important (like artificial deadlines, abstract punctuality, and the minute hand on clocks). You can’t run a school that way, but you can appreciate a different point of view, especially when it is expressed in such a polite and calm manner.  

So, KJ tends to her garden, which runs on a more natural clock, encourages people to be open and supportive in all of their choices and all of their attitudes, reads her books, and preaches from the gospel of sustainability, all with that benign and encompassing smile.     

Eloise Kathryn Callander
Imagine having such perfect control over your body that you never have to think about what to do; it happens as if fated. The hand, the eye, the foot, they move without the imposition of thought, as if will and action are all that is needed, with no input from choice or decision. That is Eloise, either at practice or in a game, although to use words like ‘play’ or ‘game’ is to denigrate what she brings to any team. Eloise moves at different speeds and along different paths, sometimes predictably (‘we knew she would set the ball there’), sometimes without warning (‘how on earth did that shot go in?’). It is stunning to behold her.   

Movement without purpose, no matter how mysterious and beautiful, would not suffice for Eloise. She does like to win, and she loves to lead, both by example and by exhortation. The qualities that characterize her play are the ones that inform other notable aspects of her life: loyalty, drive, tenacity, trust, love. Working in Ecuador or at the retirement home, keeping a close eye on “her girls” in Middle School, taking on “the tough ones” in the curriculum because what you learn “you will carry with you for the rest of your life,” these are Eloise’s legacy. As one teacher said, this girl has “real grit and determination.” And that goes both on and off the field.  

John Wesley Callender
Last year, John’s lacrosse coach dubbed him the “King of the Intangibles,” pointing out that John is the type of “player whose impact on a game may not be seen in the score sheet, but whose presence is felt whenever he comes darting in off the sideline.” Soft-spoken, thoughtful, and keenly intelligent, John has a similar impact in the classroom, the theater, and in the dormitory. Always pitching in whenever and however he’s needed without fanfare or fuss, John willingly dons helmet and pads or the techie headset in order to lead his crew. John is equally effective in the academic arena. A lover of intellectual challenge, he brings an analytical perspective to each class and an adeptness at posing questions or making observations that bring light to the topic at hand. “A friendly skeptic, who keeps his teachers and classmates honest with his probing spirit,” John approaches intellectual challenges as if they were a puzzle he’s determined to solve, confident in his opinions, even when they run counter to the commonly held belief, and willing to put them to the test.  John clearly understands that growth, both intellectual and personal, is a process, one in which you must be completely engaged in order to progress. For John, in his own words,  “Life is about diving in and not looking back because, in the end, it’s not about the destination, it’s about the adventure.”

Natalie Paige Camp
With her easy smile and quiet grace, Natalie has embraced the demands of daily life at Thacher and squeezed out every drop from the experience that she can. Her warm manner draws everyone in, whether in the classroom, in the dorm, on the field, or on the trail; she never leaves anyone out in the cold. Teachers admire, charges revere, and peers adore this cheerfully capable young woman. She truly understands the importance of education; therefore, she works hard, always, to make the most of the opportunities provided for her here. Unflaggingly and unabashedly optimistic, Natalie welcomes challenges whenever they come her way, and, by dint of determination and perseverance mixed with a willingness to try anything (well…at least once), she accomplishes the nearly impossible: hike longer, “okay”; run faster, “sure, coach”; study harder, “no problem.” We all sit back and watch her, in awe of what this diminutive dynamo can do. The obvious sense of delight that Natalie brings to the myriad tasks she takes on is contagious, and it is difficult, therefore, to be in her presence for too long without cracking a smile. Though we can’t promise any form of elephantine celebration when you return, please know, Natalie, that you will be missed. If anyone embodies Thacher’s founding principles—honor, fairness, kindness, and truth—Natalie, that person is you. 

Kendra Claire Carter
In many ways, what you see in Kendra is not what you get; in fact, what you get is much, much more. Where one sees a humble, gentle soul who loves the environment, animals, and the great outdoors, one actually gets a high-powered, determined, thoughtful, competent, and mature young woman who is willing to get her hands dirty (literally) to accomplish the tasks set before her. Kendra’s calm and even-tempered demeanor endear her to all who work with her; for, she treats all creatures, both horses and humans, with equanimity and respect, and never fails to follow through on her promises. It is, in fact, this dependability that has made her such an integral part of so many networks that sustain the Thacher community. Penning Toad-blogs, sewing costumes, organizing PTS events, championing environmental issues, plying the Orange team with homemade cinnamon rolls, and leading countless campus tours for hopeful Thacher students to be, Kendra is everyone’s go-to gal.

Never one to seek the limelight, she happily contributes in any way she can to allow her peers to shine. Every once in a while, however, her accomplishments expose her and force her to receive the praise she so richly deserves. The fact that she earned the rank of Top Horseman—an honor that has been bestowed upon only one other graduate in over ten years—speaks volumes about who this young woman is and what she stands for. We hope it won’t take another decade for someone like you to come along again, Kendra. We’re really not sure how we’ll get along without you.  

Elizabeth Chaffee Gamble Childs
In an academic and intellectual community such as ours, people who can pinpoint and pick apart the innumerable areas for improvement in our world are a dime a dozen; few, however, have the wherewithal, the inspiration, and the follow-through actually to effect change. Eliza is such a one. An altruistic entrepreneur, she constantly questions the functionality and advisability of everything from the most mundane of domestic items (like a toothbrush or wrapping paper) to more erudite issues in architectural design. The solutions she comes up with always derive from an interest in understanding the complexities of the point in question rather than calling attention to herself and her sizable intellect.
In Eliza, passion meets calm and hard-working to create a young woman who draws every last bit from the challenges she takes on, often surprising herself with what she has accomplished and always loving what she’s learned. Her unique ability to discover the delightful in life brings joy to those around her; in the words of a friend, “Eliza makes every situation worthy of laughter.” Moreover, Eliza’s self-deprecating humor and never-defeated attitude signal an authenticity that allows other to take down their guard and follow her lead. Scrambling up rock faces, dealing with issues in the dorm, or working through a particularly challenging problem set, Eliza makes overcoming obstacles appear easy. Eliza teaches us all that life is, indeed, good; however, with a bit of extra effort, it can always be better.

Connor Halasey Church
Connor has written that: “The achievement of a goal requires a mix of dedication, inspiration, and attitude,” and he has lived his life accordingly. The multiple successes he has achieved—in the classroom, on the athletic field, and even abroad—have been the product of a particular Connor-esque combination of innate talent complemented by high aspirations, willingness to work hard (all the time), and keen focus. Incredibly well informed on, well, everything, Connor is a veritable fount of knowledge, and, as such, he’s capable of changing even the most mundane assignment into an impressive academic endeavor.

Although he may be loathe to admit it, Connor works best when working toward a challenge: training to play varsity-level soccer; striving to draw connections between complex topics in Environmental Science; employing his Spanish skills to explain algebraic equations when tutoring at the Ojai Library; and pushing himself to improve his 400-meter time in order to ensure the victory of his 4x400 relay team. Of course we have all noticed the nearly twelve inches he has added to his stature in the past four years; equally significant, however, while not nearly as obvious, has been Connor’s graceful growth into his powerful intellect. Connor has tested himself in many different arenas at Thacher, and, at times, it has been a tough journey; however, in retrospect that extra effort he employed made the prize just that much sweeter. Congratulations, Connor, on all the work well done.

Casey Zabala Collins
That which most find very difficult is often very easy for Casey, especially mastering the technical skills of such diverse activities as hitting a tennis ball or making a legible and expressive line drawing. For Casey, all of those skills are simply a way of going more deeply, of seeing not the surface, with all of its glitter and all of its finesse but the inner truth that she knows lies buried beneath. She sees her own work as “metaphysical” more than as an expression of a particular medium or even feeling. The sometimes surreal components of her work are not reflections of dreams but are attempts at digging through that which everyone can see to find that which will reveal to her and her careful viewers a vision of what, for lack of a better word, we might call truth.

Her passion for this quest led her in the second half of her junior year to attend the Oxbow School. Interestingly, she focused on depictions of the soul and of shelter, of the inner and the outer, which is the key to Casey as well. As she knows and has said, “it takes rumination, growth, and revision to have success with a piece. I feel that now my art making will be informed instead of just aesthetic.” Deep and introspective, she values as well the sharing and the communication, a winning combination.  

Sophie Talia Conant
There are at least a couple of different Sophies, and she is always ready to exploit the inevitable gap in perception between what she is and what, sometimes, she projects. Hugely athletic—if you’ve never seen her throw a ball, you have no idea—and blessed with outstanding hand/eye coordination, she has been a successful member of three varsity teams. Critically intelligent, she handles academic challenges skillfully and precisely. Through a lot of hard work, she has learned, among other things, to write with the same clarity and directness with which she speaks. At the same time, she questions both the effort involved in and the value of the activities she pursues.  

Working hard while simultaneously questioning the importance of working hard may seem just the slightest bit contradictory, but that is part of Sophie’s charm. By suspending herself so perfectly between committed success and skeptical alienation, she can comment, with authority and with great humor, on the passing scene, to the great delight of her friends. Her directness, her candor, and the depth of her insight endear her wherever she goes, even if you occasionally find yourself on the receiving end of one of her barbs, since whatever the target, her aim is so precise that you can hardly keep from laughter.   

Andrew McGuire Connick
Drew Connick is truly a Renaissance man: scholarly, athletic, and artistically creative. His highest aspiration: “to be happy”; and, in his pursuit of this lofty goal, he eagerly engages in all those activities that bring him joy—practicing pieces on his guitar, heading out into the wilderness armed only with a pen, paper, and a machete; launching that game winning pass; or befriending a stranger on a park bench in Spain. Each of these experiences represents an integral part of Drew and, were they able to be captured in snapshots, like those he took for his Senior Exhibition, the montage that would result from melding them together would be, like Drew, inspirational. Drew’s sphere of influence is broad, and anyone drawn into his circle of friends quickly recognizes his warmth and genuine charm.  He approaches all individuals with whom he interacts–-the Lower School boys, his teammates, friends, faculty members, and travelers abroad—as he would a character he is going to play, always aspiring to understand them and what makes them work, never passing judgment, nor trying to convince them to change. In the words of his Senior English teacher, Drew “sees the world with clear, curious eyes and is unafraid to commit words to paper as he seeks the ultimate truth of an experience—whether it’s jumping on a trampoline or jumping into an awareness of morality.” Best of luck, Drew, in your next adventure.

Paul Atwater Connolly
When the adults around him start saying things like “excellent decision-making” and pointing out that he consistently “makes the sharpest and most thoughtful comments” in class discussion, you know that Paul has decided to make some changes. And when Paul makes up his mind, you can be sure that change is coming. Graceful, talented, relaxed, and humorous, Paul found very little in the first sixteen years of his life to convince him that hard work was particularly necessary. But, at least for some, the coming of age brings wisdom, and that process is especially evident in Paul.

It probably started with athletics. Fast, strong, and much taller than just about everybody else, Paul found success an easy commodity on the field. As he pointed out about himself, “I was pretty much self taught for most of my time as a goalie,” and that was good enough. Over his time here, however, he has learned how to work in order to improve, so one of his three varsity coaches can say, “all in all, Paul just learned a lot between junior and senior year,” a comment that refers to a lot more than just athletics. Especially pronounced was the application in the classroom where he came to realize that studying “was for my own edification” and that, “rather simply, school was good for Paul.” The results have been more than impressive.  

The trick, then, is to turn up the heat without sacrificing the cool. It’s a tall order but one that has been well within Paul’s reach. Congratulations.   

Leandra Poindexter Cooper
Can anyone actually be as nice as Leandra seems to be, to express absolute enthusiasm for almost everything, to show absolute concern for the well-being and happiness of everyone else, to involve oneself in absolutely every activity planned that helps the planet or the underprivileged or the horse program (and especially the Orange Team)? Got to be a dark side, right? Nope, actually not.  

In Leandra, just as the way the abstractionist painter Frank Stella described his work, “What you see is what you see.” Would you expect someone who hopes to save the planet to be a vegetarian? She is. Would you expect someone who works with physically challenged children in the summer and who loves to ride to be a leader in the therapeutic riding program? She is. Would you expect the top freshman rider to end up captaining a gymkhana team, twice? She did. Would you expect a great student who is committed to alternative energy sources (she built her own solar-powered iPod charger as well as a golf cart) to win the top Environmental Science award? She did. It’s all very comforting because Leandra is exactly what she projects, and that projection is exactly right.  

Oh, and she can steal a scene on stage with the best of them.  Who knew?

Trevor Rogers Currie
If there is anyone more balanced, you’ll have to prove it. Trevor moves instinctively to fit in everything he thinks is important and then to pursue each activity with just the right amount of energy and commitment. Perhaps most widely recognized as an athlete—he plays important roles on three varsity teams—Trevor understands the amount of time and energy demanded as well as the careful balance between individual achievement and group goals.

“Steady and mature, attentive and involved,” he pursues his academic life with the same honest assessment and thoughtful analysis of what is best for him. He knows what works, whether it is to study collaboratively, as in the case of mathematics, or to work alone, as he prefers with science and history. He even defends his slight tendency towards procrastination as providing a proper motivation when it comes to writing papers in English and history.  

Trevor has a passion for young children. He is the big, very big, brother to any number of faculty kids, and it is always a pleasure to see him romping around the Pergola with Javi or one of the Mahoneys. He hones those skills as a volunteer in a local daycare center. Working with sophomore boys might be seen as taking on another kind of group altogether—although if you know sophomore boys, maybe there isn’t that much difference.  

Trevor is careful to leave time for social life. He loves the dances, and he is committed to gathering with classmates during wandering. For him, there really isn’t much stress involved in getting everything done. That’s because he genuinely likes what he is doing.  

William James Dawson V
There is about Wils something charmingly old-fashioned. It’s not the kilt exactly, although there is that kilt.  And there is the fact that he is William James Dawson the Fifth.  No, rather, it is in the way Wils appreciates the contributions of others, the way he is touched by the kindness and acceptance of friends, the way he feels honored when recognized.  Maybe the word is “modesty,” which is a pretty old-fashioned word at that.  

Actually, there really isn’t much for Wils to be modest about. In most others, the string of accomplishments would create, at the very least, the expectation of recognition.  Winning an award from Cal Tech in historical geology, being invited to help light a Las Vegas show (really!), a strong climber who has earned the trust of his instructors, and the winner of any number of academic commendations, Wils has every right to receive accolades from the multitude.  But he never expects them.  The deep appreciation that he feels for friends makes Wils an easy friend to have, and his humble assessment of his talents and accomplishments seems almost out of place in the self-promoting world we live in. As he writes with a sense of wonder, “my coworkers congratulated me,” and “I was truly touched by his comment,” and “I was honored that he thought me capable.” The honor, Wils, is all ours.     

Robert Allen DeWitt, Jr.
One of this young man’s many fans asserted that “Robert has more charisma in his little toe than the rest of us combined,” and just watching him in action confirms the validity of this high praise. Smart, athletic, and talented in many areas, Robert manages to achieve and to lead in an understated fashion, never looking for the limelight but always managing to shine. Intellectually, Robert is well equipped with all the necessary raw material and scholarly discipline to galvanize a classroom discussion, to master the most complex math problems, and to convey flashes of brilliance in his written analysis. Mature and motivated purely by the desire to learn, he pushes himself to produce his best in all areas that engage him.

The tenacity and mastery that Robert demonstrates in the classroom carry over into his contributions to his athletic endeavors. His first love is football, but he’s still quite good at the rest. Watching Robert on the field is always entertaining, for it is there where his speed and athleticism combine, allowing him to make breathtaking catches and what should be once in a lifetime saves in nearly every game. Predictable excellence–-that’s Robert in a nutshell. And then there’s the side of Robert that is less public, but no less significant—his commitment to serving the community. Helping the homeless or playing with pre-schoolers, Robert is always looking to help those in need. Small ego, big brain, huge heart:  a winning combination.  

Evelyn Arely Duarte
If we had the time, we would show you just a clip of the film of Evelyn’s life at Thacher as a testament to her evolution over the past four years. For those who have witnesses her metamorphosis, it would be difficult to recognize the little Evelyn who arrived on campus without any experience riding or camping, unaccustomed to being so far from her home, in the young woman who stands before us today, who has overcome obstacles and conquered her fears, now plays the role of the mother hen that she yearned for in her first few months here. Guided, first and foremost, by her warm heart, Evelyn always takes time to reach out to others; she has shared her love of life with the pre-schoolers at Smart Start, the orphans in the orphanage in Puerta de Fe, the homeless in Ojai and in Los Angeles, and the members of Ventura County’s Special Olympics track and field team. Wherever you go, you can be sure, if Evelyn’s around, that you’ll hear her contagious laughter, which infects us all with her characteristic joy. Evelyn has been an ideal prefect, and, on top of it all, she’s an infallible friend, a strong student, and a model daughter. So to finish, we would end the film with a flashback to Evelyn when she entered the ring, in her first Big Gymkhana, Mexican flag in hand with her blue long skirt covering her mount’s haunches, galloping off to conquer the world, just as she has conquered her world here.  

Alison Hope Espinosa-Setchko
It takes a lot to be really happy, and Ali knows that. You need to be organized and disciplined so that you have a sense of control. Ali is organized and knows “my work ethic is the only thing I can rely on.” You need to know where you came from so that your position in the universe is defined. Ali embraces her relatives and their commitment to civil rights as avidly as she accepts the joys and the responsibilities of her large, somewhat disparate and loving family. You need to love others. Ali is good with this, maybe Ali is the best at this, as she combines the deepest kind of empathy with the capacity to share completely with her friends. You need to know yourself, and you need to be sure not to lose yourself in the world around you. Ali knows this and has leaned on “friends and family who have taught me to set boundaries and focus more on myself.” You need to move outside yourself and outside of others, into the pure release of the physical.  If you have seen Ali marking up an opponent on the basketball court or the lacrosse field, you see exactly how fully she can do that.

Ali has known all of this from at least the eighth grade when she posted her favorite poem, which we might call Ali’s secret of happiness:
        You have brains in your head
        You have feet in your shoes.
        You can steer yourself
        In any direction you choose.
        You’re on your own.
        And you know what you know.
        And YOU are the one who will decide where to go.
Thank you, Dr. Seuss, and thank you, Ali

Lee Butler Farese
An independent and creative thinker, Lee has lots of natural ability; he understands new ideas with ease and articulates them smoothly, both in writing and discussions. He is also a wonderful example of the power of this place and the connection that students make with teachers and vice a versa. A lover of baseball, Lee might offer that he is the best example of the seventh inning rally which often results in the most amazing, awe-inspiring moments like the one where you magically scoop up a silver dollar as your horse lopes on a turn.

A unique blend of heart and mind and hands, this young man has done his share to contribute his best in each of his classes, on the trail, at the plate, at Smart Start, and at a small town cable factory. Then of course, there is Lee’s greatest passion—music. He fondly offers that his father introduced him to this avocation at age six, and he has been playing ever since. And so with his “most prized possession” always at his side, he inspires, collaborates, comforts, and entertains in the dorm, at the campsite, or the coffee house. Talented, optimistic, and completely at the helm of his education, Lee is indeed at a happy ending to his career here at Thacher. We are proud of his growth and maturity, and we expect great things from this young man.  

Kristen Rose Findley
Kristen combines speed and endurance in almost equal measure. She also runs a little. Really, the impressive physical accomplishments are just a little piece of what is a whole and a wholly balanced individual. A little piece but, of course, a memorable piece as well: cross country champion and record holder, team captain of three sports, outstanding athlete at the league meet two years in a row, CIF soccer appearances—the list goes on.

Bright and sunny, Kristen does what she does because she enjoys it so much. The qualities that characterize her when she runs are reflected in her class work as well, where her academic achievements, with outstanding AP performances in every academic department, speak volumes about her quick wit and her willingness to work for the long haul. In other words, speed and endurance. And she dances and performs. And she has an unbelievably large number of friends and supporters, both adult and peer. And she makes time for them.  

When you do what you love and you do it every day and you have both talent and ambition, it looks kind of easy—and that’s how Kristen makes it look: she smiles even when she works out. The fact that there is no one like her should be the clue: an extraordinary girl.  

Anna Lee Cook Ford
To share, to show compassion, to be empathetic and, at every minute of the process, to affirm the self, to give up nothing that is yours, that is a gift, and it is Annie’s gift. She talks a lot about making people laugh and making people comfortable. Laughter, of course, is the intellectual side of the emotional bond that we most often seek when we seek comfort. Annie knows this, that laughter offers the self and that comfort is for the other.  What makes her so powerful and so attractive in her dealings with others is this knowledge and the ability to never confuse one with the other.

To be so grounded in the self at so young an age also allows her to define her environment as well as herself. Languages are important because “knowing how to speak Spanish increases the size of my world.” She values expansion and has always chosen an oddly idiosyncratic but highly demanding curriculum: “for better or for worse, I never want to take the easy way out.” The other part is the physical, which Annie dearly loves, an affirmation of her individual presence and, simultaneously, of team, once more the self and the other. Running cross country (can you believe it?), taking on leadership in basketball, and learning to thrive on the pressure and the responsibility of the lacrosse goal (“but don’t let anyone know who much I love it.”), it all fits together. Annie does what she does because she is what she is.  

Ian Sullivan Fuller
Known among his myriad friends as the king of suntan, Ian, affable, engaged, inclusive, and socially committed, moves about the campus surrounded by those who appreciate and share his sense of humor, a unique blend that we might call gently sarcastic. He loves the outdoors—or at least the pool—and cannot understand why anyone would stay inside and play a video game when you can sit in the sun and talk and laugh and share.  There is nothing mean spirited or biting about Ian’s view of humanity. For him, it is all about engagement and connection. He seeks contact with those who share his perspective, and he finds a great many of them. He recognizes that the people “I admire most are those who are funny, active, and don’t take life too seriously.”     

An able student, Ian seeks opportunities for practical learning, especially when it reinforces his predilection for company. So, his favorite class is French because the gains are measurable, the usefulness direct, and the rewards, at least in part, social. “The best way to learn French is simply through talking and getting to know your peers better.” He felt transformed by his experience in environmental science as he became aware of the consequences of our waste and greed. Typically, Ian sees the crisis in both individual and group terms, recognizing his own responsibility and commenting, “I know all of my classmates felt the same way.” Working together, for Ian, is always the best way.

Talal Charles Gedeon Achi
Talal is one smart cookie, and for all of the seeming noise and confusion that can accompany him, he knows himself. Note his insight into some of his interactions with the faculty who need to resist the impact that “my annoying French personality tends to drape over their eyes.” He understands and sympathizes with faculty who have endured “the extent of my impertinence.” Such awareness extends to the physical self in a particularly Talal way: “I used to tell my reflection in the mirror that my orange speckled green eyes were the treasure and pride of the family (I was about 6 years old at the time). I quite admire myself.”

As is clear from these little snippets, Talal is clever with words and adept at self-mockery.  There is as well a deeply serious core which is evident in the pride he takes in his writing and the sense he has of the progress he has made. What made the difference?  “I thrive much more intellectually when I have fun.”  That sense of serious fun is reinforced by his summer work on the Gran Prix circuit, riding until he has blisters on his hands and feet before getting to the real work: “40 stalls have to be mucked every morning, horses fed, all without the aid of a swarm of willing freshmen, armed with brushes, rakes, and the determination of suicidal fruit flies.” He often wins these competitions.

The fact is that Talal loves to be taken seriously but he cannot resist the absurd. The distance between what he does and what he says can provoke contradictory reactions, although if you don’t compare them, and his friends never do, you are allowed real insight into an extraordinary mind.

Mariah Alexis Gill-Erhart
“Clear eyes. Full heart. Can’t lose.” These words from Friday Night Lights do not just describe Mariah at a Friday night game. Mariah uses her many gifts to engage her peers in the classroom, in the laboratory, and around the dining hall table. Whether it is perceptive presentation of motivational theories in AP Psychology or a thoughtful look into the vagaries of Stephen Daedulus’s aesthetic theory in A Portrait of Artist as a Young Man, Mariah probes her subject with precision and perspicacity. Moreover, she dives into all of her subjects with tenacity and dedication. Her questions and observations add clarity to the matter at hand and lead to better understanding for all.

Not content to lead solely in the classroom, Mariah has used her talents to excite and thrill us on the basketball and volleyball courts as well. A crisp pass, a well-placed spike, or a game-changing three-pointer certainly highlights her extraordinary talents, but it is her dedication to excellence and to the team that strikes us true.

Oh, and let’s not forget the legion of faculty kids who will miss their favorite Friday night gal. They will remember her as patient and loyal, but also as no-nonsense enough to keep them to one ice cream cone. Finally, to her credit and to our lasting pleasure, she has shown us for four years that if you approach life honestly and directly, you can’t lose.

Sabine Girvin Hoskinson
Sabine is a writer, and that kind of profession carries with it certain necessary approaches, assumptions, and responsibilities. It is never easy because it requires such a firm grasp of what is outside as well as what is inside. But that’s okay because Sabine knows that “Life is not supposed to be easy but it is supposed to be great.”  

Because writing is both creative and creating, both the process and the result of making it up, things change at double speed, so you only get a handle on a moment.  Sabine is good at that, in part because of temperament. As she says, “I have always known I love school and admit to a dorky love of learning, of connecting dots, and of discovery,” which is not really a love of school but of the process of school. Sabine is also good because of discipline; to be a writer, she knows, “you have to write constantly,” and she writes every day because it is her way of knowing. Finally, Sabine is good because she believes: “to me, every moment of writing feels incredibly rewarding. It’s like sore muscles after a hard run.”

Writers know also that they have an audience, and Sabine is unusually capable of nurturing hers. Fellow professionals, real or would be, in the Literary Society know of her commitment to honesty and to communication; she reads their stuff with the same avidity that she writes hers. Her friends line up to share in her work and admire her commitment. As one wrote, “Sabine’s voice will long live on in my memory, as she speaks just as eloquently as she writes.” A nice legacy, indeed.    

Joshua Cinque Jackson
You don’t always realize just how physically imposing Josh is until you stand next to him or, heaven help you, he lays that big arm on your shoulder and looks down on you. A lot about Josh is big: his body, his voice booming from the stage or performance hall, his enthusiasm, his spirit. But when you think about Josh or watch him from a distance, it is the small smile, the sensitive awareness, the genuine politeness and interest in others that strike you.

For all of his loud brash affirmation—no one can lead a sports cheer better than Josh and no one on this year’s football team could lay out an opponent with more authority—there is a respectful stillness at Josh’s core, a willingness to listen, to defer, to collaborate. As a student, he writes, “I think that I generally work best in a group setting.” As a leader, he sees himself as one “who cares more about the group than himself.” As a performer, he loves the ensemble work as much as the solo, however good and memorable his solo work is.  

When Josh was just a kid, his father told him that God had given him two ears and one mouth and that he should learn to use them in that proportion. He uses both with unusual skill and grace. 

Carey Thomas Jonker
Carey has, in the words of a friend, “an unbelievable ability to know how things work and undying patience in trying to explain them to people who don’t even understand the terminology.” In his quest for knowledge and true understanding, Carey has dissected and reassembled mechanical pencils, wind turbines, and even a go-kart, just to comprehend how the parts work in harmony to produce the desired result. In his two years at Thacher, Carey has approached all he has taken on with equanimity and perseverance, viewing any problem—a rough chemistry lab, a tough ascent, or a recalcitrant horse—as an opportunity to further his understanding rather than an obstacle to it. His quiet sense of humor and good-natured approach to all that he does has endeared him to those fortunate to work with him, both in the classroom and on the field.

Methodical, conscientious, and curious, Carey has climbed to great heights, literally and figuratively, primarily motivated by his persistent desire to work through a problem, be it a new bouldering sequence on Jameson Rock done barefoot or a particularly difficult statistical concept, until he discovers the solution for himself. He, like Alice Walker, is amazed by “the growth of understanding”; for, the process is just that much more rewarding when it is you yourself who plants the seeds.   

Kelsey Elsiena Jonker
“Don’t let the skirt fool you.” Kelsey, like her bulldog Larry, is not what she seems to be at first glance. Her glamorous garb and demure effect could lead you to believe she’s a girly girl, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, beneath the lovely exterior, Kelsey shows many of the characteristics typically associated with her canine friend: she’s tenacious, loyal, and tough as nails. Just watch her when she takes to the tennis court; she’s a fierce competitor, and her steely stare lets you know she’s out for the win. 

Kelsey demonstrates the same take no prisoners attitude when it comes to the classroom; she works like she plays, hard and indefatigably, but always with a smile. She is her own taskmaster, expecting a lot from herself and never falling short of these high aspirations. Kelsey, always unruffled and enviably calm, maintains an even keel; she prepares diligently and takes an active role in class without a lot of bluster or fuss. Her passion: car racing, and, if you overheard her talking, you’d mistake her for a mechanic; she can give any Car and Driver magazine reader a run for his money, waxing eloquent on recent innovations in Formula 1 racecar engines and quoting statistics on drivers and their team standings from memory. Over her time here, Kelsey has realized that “if you are willing, you can find pleasure in the unexpected.” While joining Thacher as a junior may have been unexpected for Kelsey, it has been our pleasure having here her here.

Christianne Kenrieke Elise Karefa-Johnson
Worldly and wonderful, Christy is a dynamic young woman whose convictions are as strong as her passion is deep—her compassion knows no geographic boundaries. In all that she does, Christy is motivated by her ability to find fulfillment in the benefit of others and to reveal the poetic in some of life’s darkest corners. With Christy, it’s all about creating connections—with her friends, her family, an AIDS orphan in Swaziland, or a pre-schooler at Smart Start; she revels in any opportunity to bring joy to someone’s life or to help someone reach his goal. Though she may wear her heart on her sleeve, a Pollyanna she is not; as a friend states, “If you’re looking for a friend who will baby you and sugar-coat things, then Christy is not the right person. She is the friend who will be honest with you when the other are not, which is never an easy thing to do.” Christy’s sense of justice and strength provide her a perspective on life that many envy and few can emulate. She thrives on the revelation of magnificence in the interplay of words on the page, passion in lines of a rap, and grace in a seamless combination of dance steps. Christy is not, however, content to observe others’ success; she strives to reproduce the beauty she sees in a style all her own—be it in a well-executed version of an Alvin Ailey dance or a perfect stanza of poetry.  In one of her poems, the speaker states, “I am proud of my people.” We can declare unequivocally, Christy, that all those here fortunate enough to consider themselves part of your people are most certainly proud of you.  

Gabriella Kenrieke Elise Karefa-Johnson
Gaby is enthusiasm incarnate. Friends, family, faculty children all feel fortunate to find themselves enveloped in the vibrancy Gaby exudes. Emboldened by a strong sense of self and an unwavering moral compass, she never hesitates to share with others what is on her mind; the topics run the gamut from the profound to the ridiculous, and her audience is similarly broad. Who else but Gaby can comment with equal expertise on anything French—food, film, literature, or fashion—or advocate for awareness regarding issues of global import while she simultaneously tends to the needs of those closer to home?

All she comes into contact with, from the Smart Start pre-schoolers who adore her to those rallying for equal rights on an Ojai street corner, benefit from having Gaby on their side. She can make you laugh (and she’ll laugh along with you) or she can make you mad, but really, what Gaby’s best at is making you think. For, as one near and dear to her said, “Sure, Gaby is loud, but if I didn’t have her around to clarify the world around me (mega-phone style), it would take people saying things twice for me to understand them.” Gaby claims that here at Thacher she has learned “to be the change I want to see in this world.” Well, Gaby, if you are what change looks like, we have to say that, from our vantage point, change is looking really good.  

Aharon Benjamin Kaslow
There is much that is impressive about Aharon Kaslow–-his earnest and passionate approach, his optimism, his humility, and the fact that he takes nothing for granted. He is a leader by example, always ready to roll up his sleeves and pitch in, to give every experience his best—be it the creation of his tribal regalia, the acquisition of new language, riding a highly independent horse named Pretzel, or subbing in to defend a 6-foot, 3-inch point guard on the basketball court. And nowhere has this tenacity, discipline and motivation been more apparent than in our classrooms where Aharon is consistently engaged, unafraid to test his ability and to tackle the hard stuff: the complexities of modern physics or nuances in French literature. Indeed this young man takes these and myriad other challenges with a commitment to excellence for himself and his communities. All the more remarkable is Aharon’s selflessness. Compliment him on the amazing, hand-stitched details of his regalia, and he will offer how his mother helped him collect a prized shell or feather; make note of his growth in French, and he will immediately point to the support of his “incredible” teachers; congratulate him on a game well played or an amazing pass to Josh, and he will quickly focus shift the focus to the feats of his teammates. Above all else, Aharon is a trusted and loyal friend, a loving son, and a truly decent young man. We will miss him.

Cameron Parker Kemp
“Stellar.” “Fresh and original.” “Sophisticated and true.” These comments, which read like a theater review, are, in fact, only a partial list of the accolades heaped on Cameron in his time here. For, over the years, the Thacher community has come to know and love the many sides of our versatile Cameron, as he has stepped, chameleon-like, into roles as diverse as Birdboot, a philandering theater critic, the playboy suitor in a modern retelling of The Taming of the Shrew, and sniveling Smee of Peter Pan fame. He plays them all so convincingly that he has us believing, if only for the duration of the plays’ runs, that he actually has an evil bone in his body. Then he steps off the stage, and we are reminded that, in fact, his heart is huge and his intentions are good. But, those are only the parts he plays on stage. He has also taken on the role of conscientious student, loyal friend, and engaged prefect—and played them all with his characteristic charm and aplomb. Truly personable and approachable, Cameron welcomes all into his circle; in fact, a friend indicates that, “If having friends were a competition, Cameron would win.”  We’re saddened that Cameron’s run on the Thacher stage has come to an end, but we wish him success as he moves on to bigger venues. Bravo, Cameron, Bravo.

Min Seok “Ryan” Kim
A living example of the heights that can be reached by “humble hard work,” Ryan is an inspiration to us all. He’s the type of student who, when listening every September to Oliver Wendall Holmes’s exhortation, “Build thee more stately mansions, oh my soul,” immediately imagines the architectural intricacies that such a feat would require, appreciative of the majesty of the mollusk’s shell and understanding that so much of the beauty of that complex structure depends on building on the past in order to provide a better future. Inspired by one of his favorite novels, Fahrenheit 451, Ryan has learned “never to stop wondering, questioning, and seeking answers” for himself, both for personal edification and for the good of the whole. He draws upon his strengths—diplomacy, collaboration, and appreciation of camaraderie—in order to lead.

A firm believer in the necessity of follow-through, Ryan makes no promise lightly and always works to honor his commitments. The foundation he has built for himself here at Thacher is firm, and, as he departs through our gates for a “new temple nobler than the last,” he will take with him the knowledge that success can be defined in many ways, not the least of which is the process of discovering, in his own words, “the things I would fight for; the things that are a waste of time, and the things in life that matter—friendship, family, and communication.”

Emily Rowan Kirkland
Our continuing commitment to reading commendations at our final All-School banquet means that at least seven classes of Thacher students and a generation of teachers will remember that Emily’s middle name is Rowan.  If you attended last night’s Senior Banquet, you know it too.  Emily’s academic firepower really knows no limits, and while she is at least equally committed to her work in sustainability, to helping others, from classmates to elementary school kids, to getting out one more issue of the Notes, to her contributions to the JV basketball team, and to telling jokes, let’s face it, this girl is a scholar, with an insatiable desire to learn, the broadest range of interests imaginable, and an impeccable record of achievement.    

Emily’s qualities as a student and as a friend are impressive ones: balance and harmony (does that come from growing up on the Upper East Side as well as attending Thacher or from a semester at Chewonki?), commitment and achievement (hmm, well, maybe the gene pool or just plain competitiveness), and that wacky sense of humor (which is quite simply her own and absolutely unique).  Emily Rowan Kirkland, as she strides out our gates and on to the next set of challenges, maybe a little awkwardly but with power and purpose, is both unforgettable and irreplaceable.  

Matthew Anders Larsen
Matt’s a roll-up-your-sleeves-and-get-your-hands-dirty kind of guy; he’s happiest when he’s allowed to dive right into the mix—be it academic, athletic, or social—and put his skills to the test. A lover of authentic debate and a proponent of collaborative learning, he actively seeks out situations in which he can immerse himself in an experience, endeavor to express his ideas effectively, and use the ideas and opinions put forth by his companions as a springboard for the development of his own. Hardworking, intuitive, and approachable, Matt forges connections anywhere he goes; he puts a premium on personal relationships, and supports his friends unconditionally. All those who fall into his circle of influence benefit from his dedication and leadership. A bit like the predators that he spoke so eloquently about in his Senior Exhibition, Matt is clear about his goals, and he pursues them unflaggingly, with the allure of his prey (the other team’s attackman, the ever elusive A, or a well-articulated argument) driving him on. Not one to waste precious time on a victory dance or celebration, Matt, once he has tasted victory, moves quickly on to the next step, setting his sights ever higher, digging deeper and training harder, in order to ensure his persistent progress.   

John Friedrich Lehrkind
There is about John the most refreshing directness that, pretty much whatever mischief he gets into, it is very hard to get mad at him. Or at least stay mad at him for very long. Part of the reason is that John takes such delight--sometimes as the instigator (and the horses will never forget the late night he and some friends bounced golf balls off the roof of the stables)—sometimes as the victim (Mr. Snyder certainly remembers finding junior John immobilized by saran wrap on the floor of his prefect’s room)—that his essential innocence is completely apparent. The intent is always to please, never to annoy.

Two key factors figure into John’s predilections. First, while he does sleep, he often does not sleep when other people do. His favorite time of the day: “This answer is obvious, 12:00 am to 3:00 am, always a blast.”  The other is his absolute commitment to his friends.  As he writes, “I think that the most important aspect of my life at Thacher has been my friends.” It is a tempting combination, and, not surprisingly, he has made life-long friends.

John is highly intelligent and shows an increasingly effective voice in all of his classes. He has also come to realize that “I guess, overall, it was not the classes that I loved, but the people who I choose to be around and learn from.” Faculty and peers, loyalty and friendship, John leaves with a clear memory and a clear message: “I have enjoyed my self to the utmost here at Thacher.” Not everyone can say that.  

Madeline Corinne Manson
In a rock-skipping contest, Madi is the kid more interested in observing the interplay of the ripples the rocks produce than she is in how far her personal pebble goes. She seeks authentic engagement in all her endeavors and is never content to go through the motions just to get things done. Nothing is too hard, too daunting for the intrepid Madi. Normally, when people say, “The sky’s the limit,” they don’t really mean for you to try to get that high; but, for those magical moments in her Senior Exhibition, Madi accomplished the impossible – like a ballerina-cum-superhero, she scaled a column of silk and held herself suspended, spiraling, above an awestruck audience’s heads, many of whom were secretly wishing they could follow her lead.
For Madi, connection—with her friends, her family, the material she studies, and the world around her—is paramount, especially since she believes that “we build what we are and who we want to be.” Parsing a poem, gliding with grace across the dance floor or scurrying up a rock face, Madi makes every step appear effortless; only those who know her well understand the amount of thought, time, practice and sweat that has gone into the perfection of her every move. Armed with impressive integrity and an enviable sense of self, Madi is ready to take her pebble to a bigger pond. We who stay here will have to be content to watch to see where the ripples will carry her.  

Noelle Marie McMahan
If you wanted to find Thacher’s subculture or underground, you would begin and maybe end with Noelle. I’m not sure that there can be a one-person underground, but Noelle does her best. The qualities one finds in any manifestation of the underground, intellectual brilliance, powerful rhetoric, deep questions of both process and result, a sense of separation from the mainstream, and intense loyalty to those who share in the same quest are the qualities that Noelle herself possesses and values. Honesty, transparency, independence, pursued for themselves and without regard to where they might lead, form her path, and while it not, even in her mind, a heroic quest, it is what it is.

There is nothing superficial about whatever Noelle touches; she works at depth and with a sense of great involvement. Her view is wide and her range of interests wider. She is not very interested in deadlines or promptness, a habit that has cost her a fairly large number of Saturday nights. She does not make enemies, no matter how much she questions the mainstream or how stubbornly she burrows into her underground.  She seeks enlightenment and knows that even the most recalcitrant of folks (and, let’s face it, those are usually adults) has a light worth trying to read by. That knowledge too is part of her charm and part of her path.     

William Quinn McMahon
The qualities that Quinn consistently displays, of energy, of grace, of charm, of inclusiveness, of athletic prowess, and of intellectual engagement, seem to be almost effortless, as if somehow he is just naturally that way. But appearances can be deceiving, and even the most transparent of personalities is, when viewed more closely, the result of hard-earned choice and of significant personal effort. Take his high profile success in athletics as the most obvious example. How often does a real star win the Most Improved Player award and what does that mean? How frustrated can a high scoring attackman be when he is nearly shut out in a tournament only to be recognized by all the coaches as a first-team all-tournament selection? It is not surprising that the two most important words for Quinn are “effort” and “perseverance,” hardly the first two words to come to mind if you think his attainments are just the result of natural talent.  

Of course, Quinn does like to make it seem effortless; he would never brag and would complain only to his mother about how hard he works or what doubts he has. Each world with its difficulties and challenges he has conquered, from his most desperate war with Latin to his successful understanding of the relationship between goal and assist.  Given that and add to it all that natural charm, there won’t be much to stand in his way.   

Alexandra Dunston Montague
Alexandra is a planner, thorough and precise. She loves to keep things in order, from her pens to her thoughts. The little Mona Lisa smile that constantly hangs about her lips comes from the contentment that she feels from having anticipated what will happen, having made a plan to bring what it is into the context of what she has conceived, and having figured out the next three steps as well. You’d smile, too.

If she weren’t so good at it, her planning could seem a little strange.  And if she weren’t at heart so good herself, it could be more than a little sinister. But really like Alexandra it is all innocent, plans made to accomplish, to serve, to create balance, to avoid stress. Her idea of control is to pack just one more activity into her day. And every one of Alexandra’s days is pretty much fully packed. Public appearances singing and acting; private time reading (and she does love to read) and stretching her back in yoga; leadership time in the therapeutic riding program and around Middle School with her charges; study time, where everyone knows and most comment, “no one works harder than Alex.”      

As she wrote about the way to control nerves as you step on the stage, all it takes is “One step at a time, smile, one step at a time, smile, one step at a time, smile.”  

Anna Lorraine North
In her four years at Thacher, Anna has proven herself to be a consummate scholar who allows her heart to lead her head—approaching organic gardening and composting as if it were a class; putting her Spanish and herself to the test by exchanging the comforts of her home in Ojai for the challenges of living the language in Guatemala; and enriching her understanding of US History by engaging in conversations with her great grandmothers when she visited them in an Ojai retirement home.

Anna moves through life much like she moves across the dance floor, with grace and mastery, her apparent effortlessness belying the hard work and determined practice it takes to perform. Despite the inspiring effect she has on her audience (on stage, in the classroom, or in the dorm), Anna, herself, is keenly aware of every step she takes toward her goals. She believes that “Change is what creates progress, be it personal or world-wide,” and she willingly seeks experiences that allow her to test her mettle and adapt in order to grow.

In all that she takes on, Anna is a quiet but consistent leader; her peers, her charges, and her teammates admire and elect to follow her lead because of her integrity, passion and clear vision—and, quite frankly, because she’s a whole lot of fun. Anna, you’ve won our hearts by your willingness to share so generously of yours.   

Sean Martin O’Brien
When Sean applied to Thacher, he described himself as patient and persevering.  He also described his largest challenge as entering a new school where he had no friends.  Now, four years removed from that application, Sean finds himself as still that same patient observer but one surrounded by a host of friends. Friends are the most important part of Sean’s life, here and at home, and his commitment to them is one reason that he has so many. He listens patiently to his friends, shares completely, and perseveres in his absolute acceptance of them and their inconsistencies. Sean knows that you have to be a good friend to have a good friend.

Sean knows a lot of other stuff too. He has an active and probing intelligence that expresses itself most impressively in discussions both inside and outside of the classroom.  His willingness to engage deeply in any kind of discussion, from politics to teenage foolishness (including a true obsession with the politics of skateboarding) or from the nature of story telling to Gonzo Games, endears him to a wide audience.  He is, as well, an athlete of considerable ability, especially in tennis although some of his happiest moments came on the Mr. Harris’ third soccer squad because, no surprise, he got to play with a bunch of his friends.

Intensely loyal, Sean also knows to hold himself a little apart. Criticisms don’t faze him much because he knows that he is successful whenever he wants to be, and that is when he gathers with his friends on a warm spring evening just for the joy of being together. You could do a lot worse than that.   

Sondra Rae Oxley
It always begins with a horse. Captain of Green, owner of the legendary Sundance recently recognized as horse of the year, PTS stalwart, Sondra loves the thrill of competition and the challenge of training. She understands that all that speed and agility, compressed into the few seconds of a gymkhana run can only be accomplished by the long and patient hours that comprise training. A second reason for her success is breeding, as she comes from three generations of Thacher horse people (not to mention being the first girl graduate whose mother is also a graduate). A third is application; she began working with colts over a year ago, and her present charge Harley now has almost as good manners as she does.  

Sondra knows as much about setbacks as she does about success.  A bad fall, maybe a couple of bad falls, might cost her points and, more importantly from Sondra’s point of view, cost her team points, but she absolutely knows the importance, and in fact the pleasure, of getting back on. She has extended this lesson to all aspects of her life—from basketball, where she could play in only a limited number of games this year but insisted on practicing hard everyday, to her academic work, which she has found more and more rewarding as she has reaped the benefit of an unbelievable work ethic.  

It always ends with a horse. Disciplined and practical, camper and wrangler, trainer and student, Sondra rides out our gates with the sense of mastery that only a repeated pattern of setback and success can engender. Congratulations.  

Jensen Sara Pease
Just as a single word that seems to be standard can, in fact, vary significantly from region to region—a soft drink becomes pop, Coke, or soda according to your geographic location—so too does a Pease take on different character traits depending on her first name. The Jensen variety has a sharp mind, an enviable work ethic, and, as a friend outlines, “a contagious laugh, impeccable comedic timing, oh, and great hair.” While Jensen clearly has benefitted a good deal from her sisters’ guidance, she has hewn her own path here at Thacher. She understands intuitively the value of individuality and lives by the mantra, “Looking for your place is the surest way not to find it. Be yourself, and your place will find you.” Neither flashy nor an in-your-face type of leader, Jensen is an understated presence who leads by example and simply by being herself.

A serious student whose work ethic puts many of us to shame, Jensen has a knack for uncovering the comic potential in any assignment. Who else but Jensen would design for her Spanish final a travel brochure for a trip to all the countries from which Angelina Jolie has adopted children or admit, without flinching, to a particular fondness for linguistic oddities, like the word “cubbyhole,” for example, that elicit laughter merely because of their particular pronunciation? Determined, forgiving, and infinitely entertaining, she is Jensen, and for that we are truly grateful.  

Andrew Francis Pollet II
Can it be true that Andrew is spearheading a move, under the aegis of the Seventh Man Club, to purchase a toad costume so that we will have a mascot to lead us in cheers next year? There have been rumors and an increasingly large number of bake sales.  If it proves true, then Andrew will leave behind the outward and physical manifestation of the inner and abiding spirit that is already a central part of his legacy.  Is there anyone who possesses more good humor, more school spirit, more enthusiastic affirmation than Andrew?  I think not, and neither do his friends, who write things like, “When you find yourself in an awful mood, one of those moods in which you’d rather take your finals over than crack a smile, Andrew has an uncanny ability to make you laugh over and over again.”

Not that Andrew is some sappy optimistic fool or shallow mocker. He knows what wit is and how to wield it. He takes his studies deeply to heart but always offers any number of self-deprecatory and witty jibes about his study habits and his overall attainment. With tennis, which he approaches with deadly seriousness, leading the team to heights not reached in twenty years, his comments and the laughter of his teammates are constant accompaniments to the more traditional grunts and expressions of self-loathing that usually come from a competitive tennis court. As Andrew knows, you need to say the jokes out loud; the hard work speaks for itself.  

Sanjana Rajakekaran
Lucky the few who have grown close enough to Sanjana to see beyond the surface.  Not that there is anything wrong with the surface. Many, many in the community saw her perform the Indian classical dance Bharatanatyam (she calls the process “almost meditative” as well as “commanding”) and knew, some for the first time, that that which appeared as reserved was actually serene and that that which seemed timid was really a confidence that needed no further expression. But even that awareness did not provide enough insight; only her words do.
   
Words are important to Sanjana, and she uses them with unusual grace and precision. They reflect a thought process which is both accessible and unique, a melding of her background and her life. She writes, “Anybody’s potential is infinite and can only be diminished by negative thoughts and by trying to measure up.” She writes, ”Modesty is not the enemy of confidence, in fact it gives that confidence a deep, rock solid foundation and true respect for what you do and the people who have helped you.” She writes, ”I do not believe strength of character can always be measured in voicing our own thoughts, and being quick to judge others. This is an unquestioned cultural (and possibly generational) bias that fails to recognize that its evaluations are utterly unfair.”
   
Movements are traditional and serene; words are measures; thoughts are processes; Sanjana’s life is whole.

Soo-Hyun “Sam” Rhee
It is difficult to overstate our regard for Sam. The list of his accomplishments, some well known, some known just to his college counselor and perhaps his mother, only begin to suggest the worthiness of that esteem. Top scholar, top athlete, school leader, Sam carries the mantle of success without arrogance or showmanship. He does what he does because he loves it, because he’s interested in it, because it’s important, or all three.  Sincerity when matched with depth of vision and a certain selflessness will always win friends, and he has won many, many friends here.   

Sam’s is a voice of reason and understanding. Collaboration? “It would be a waste of an incredibly valuable resource—my classmates—if I learned only from my teachers.” Dorm discussions? “I often discuss poems and literature with my friends in the dorm because I grow impatient of waiting until class the next day.” (I am reminded here of what a friend said about discussions with Sam, that you could do so “without feeling like a stupid idiot, which is a quality few geniuses possess.”) Sports? “I thrive off the intensity and camaraderie of varsity sports.” And thrive he has in all areas.  Idealistic, deeply connected, endlessly thoughtful, Sam has made a difference here and will surely be heard from in a wider world in time to come.   

Jacqueline Margarita Robles
It has been a pleasure to have among us such a vivacious young lady. When Jackie walks through the school, during class or in the dining hall, everyone is attracted, like a magnet, to her love of life and her passion for living every moment to its fullest. Jackie is a veritable avalanche of energy, which, instead of destroying those in its path, transfers its power to whatever it touches as it moves unstoppably forward. Jackie’s spark is evident not just on the soccer field—where her talent is clear—but, also, in every part of her life.  Her interest in and commitment to helping others brought the school together to participate in a program to raise funds for a scholarship for Hispanic students in the Ojai community. This is just one example of how Jackie is a link between the school and our presence in town. It has been a privilege to have Jackie share with us her admiration and affection for her family and welcome us to share her bicultural background, with open arms saying, “Mi casa es tu casa.” Over the past four year, Jackie’s academic performance has been always ascendant, demonstrating that when she sets out to accomplish a goal, there’s nothing that can stand in her way. In this case, therefore, when you see this avalanche coming, don’t try to step aside; her strength will always embrace and uplift you and carry you forward as she moves along.

Christopher Malcolm Rowe
There is a lesson that a lot of people never learn and for most the learning comes a bit later than is convenient: “just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean you have to do it.” Chris’s problem is that he is good at a whole bunch of stuff, and I mean really good.  To sort through the resulting expectations that others have, to hear sentences of admonition that always have “potential” among their first three words, and to resist the temptation that easy excellence offers have been Chris’s particular burdens during his four years here.  

Scholarship and athletic prowess; friendship and rock climbing; community service and the natural world; music and meditation—it seems quite possible to bring all of that into some kind of harmonious balance, but if you think the way that Chris does—originally and honestly and deeply—the cracks appear. He does not just meditate but studies and practices and tries to live his life through his understanding of Qi Gong. The occasional weekend camping trip is simply insufficient for one who desires to “feel the tranquility and power of the wilderness” and who recognizes “the need for it in my life.” Weekly trips to a convalescent home are well and good, but can they really help to alleviate what Chris sees as the “frustrated loneliness” of these patients? It is a dilemma, one that requires careful thought, emotional maturity, and a pretty thorough knowledge of the self, but it is a worthy dilemma.  

William David Shenton
Will is that unusual student whose boundless energy and enthusiasm springboards him from one pursuit to the next in an interdisciplinary whorl of intellectual attraction. The range of his ideas and interests is as eclectic as his music collection, and scrolling through them, as if they were items on an Itunes playlist, can be dizzying. Politics, journalism, creative writing, environmentalism, philosophy, theater, filmmaking, music, lacrosse, camping, and that’s just the list thus far. Will spends his time engaged in activities to satisfy his probing mind and to satiate, if only temporarily, his incredible curiosity. Despite his drive to discover new areas of engagement, Will also derives great pleasure from connecting to the here and now; he takes the time to finish a conversation, to check on his charges in the dorm, and to contemplate the beauty in the world around him. He is intrigued by “the fundamental order of nature” as he puts it and delights in carving moments out of his hectic life to admire the inherent complexity of all that surrounds us.  Author, musician, philosopher, and friend, Will has sucked the marrow from Thacher’s bones and delighted in the process. For Will, life, like the experience of brewing a perfect cup of tea, is something to be approached with deliberation, consideration, and profound appreciation—and it is something that is all the more satisfying if it can be enjoyed with a friend.    

Alexandra Lewis Simon
It is always a little frightening to stand near a hurricane but it is irresistibly fascinating at the same time. The inevitable build up of pressure followed by the rush is attractive and, in Alex’s case, also addictive.  The unique combination of breadth and depth in her list of daily activities is simply staggering.

But this endless round of work, followed by seemingly inevitable success, is neither drudgery nor a manifestation of self-sacrifice. In fact, Alex is happy in extending the effort and happy as she contemplates her results. Alex would be unhappy at the prospect of down time or a week off.  So, you take a couple of extra classes and study hard, you play a bunch of sports—and you do it really well—and you take on lead roles in the school plays—and if there isn’t a play going on, then find one and put on a one-woman show, just to keep your hand in. You sing. You serve as a prefect for the sophomores, who stand in awe.  You use your summers to work at a camp for special needs youngsters and your copious free time at school to be at the Oak Tree House, a day care center for the disabled elderly.  Actually, it’s really hard to talk about Alex without resorting to a list.

As one of her teachers wrote, “Alex never took a day off this year. Not one.” That’s because what we mere mortals think of as work are Alex’s days off.    

William Warren Strachan
Smart, grounded, and wonderfully balanced by a healthy sense of perspective, Will is an excellent addition to our community. Like yin and yang, life for Will is composed of complementary opposites:  he has two places he calls home – Down East and Down Under; he’s equally comfortable delving into complex chemistry problems as he is digging into the mud on an oyster farm; and he enjoys the solitude of cross country running as much as he does the camaraderie of his intrepid third team soccer squad.

A self-starter, his genuine and playful personality belies the serious work ethic that sits at the core of his considerable academic success. Starting with his physics teacher freshmen year who offered, “I cannot praise him enough, and I have nothing whatsoever to criticize,” our faculty has certainly appreciated Will’s presence in their classrooms and the insight he provides. Earnest and engaged, Will wants to do things for the right reasons, because he genuinely believes in the task or the cause, not just to win a prize or to earn a title. With his quirky sense of humor and the ever-present twinkle in his eye, Will sees this world in a unique way, and his sense of balance keeps him upright, always managing to situate himself in the eye, and never on the edge, of the storm.   

Joseph Oliver Tobin
The consummate Boy Scout, Joe believes in commitment, relishes hard work, and thrives on setting goals—and meeting them. Joe always goes the extra mile—shooting over 10,000 jump shots in one summer just to hone his skills or stopping a teacher at the door of the classroom to contribute one last point to a class discussion. A devotee of intellectual repartee, Joe delights in engaging in a dynamic debate—pitting his thoughts and opinions against those of his teachers or his peers, driven simply by a desire to deepen his learning and to contribute to the collective knowledge. His voracious appetite—both for material that sustains his body and well as that which nourishes his brain—is legendary; one teacher said, “Joe is an academic animal, devouring facts and figures like a grizzly through a berry bush.”

Joe’s unwillingness to give anything less than one-hundred percent carries over to his work on the athletic fields as well, where his drive and leadership garner him the respect and devotion of his coaches and the admiration of his teams. A team player through and through, Joe trains tirelessly and presses himself to do his best, not for individual gain but, rather, to create a better, stronger whole. As he states: “Personal glory is fine, but there is nothing better than achieving success as a team.” And, witnessing the expression of sheer joy on Joe’s face when the buzzer beating shot swishes through the net, you know that this, for Joe, is true.  

Anne Taylor Turner
“When I grow up, I want to be like Anne; equal parts tough, strong, funny, smart, and responsible.” The fact that this quotation comes from an adult in the community is telling. What it highlights is Anne’s uniquely balanced character composition. She’s the ominous outside hitter who smiles slightly as she hangs momentarily suspended at net height before driving an un-returnable ball into the far corner of the opponents’ side of the court; but, she’s also the first one to offer her hand to each and every player (and there have been many) who finds her efforts thwarted by Anne’s impressive athleticism. Anne sets her sights high—aiming for the silver dollar or the shutout—and she puts in the requisite grit, time, and elbow grease in order to achieve her goals. Anne is equally tenacious in the classroom, where her work ethic sets a standard for others to follow, and her sense of humor lightens even the heaviest of workloads. Supportive, open, and completely unpretentious, Anne is a loyal friend, a sympathetic prefect, a natural leader, and, quite frankly, a whole lot of fun. Never one to call attention to her talents, Anne just does what it is that needs to be done and allows her actions to speak for themselves; the resultant roar, like those of the Thacher fans at her volleyball games, is often nearly deafening.  

Hectór Francisco Villanueva
Many who have not have contact with Hector could have the impression that he is an introverted young man who is difficult to get to know well. They would be completely wrong. Hector doesn’t go skipping frivolously through life; instead, he observes, analyzes, and, when it’s appropriate and relevant, he allows us to see not just the surface of his opinions and ideals but rather each point of them so that we are able to catch a glimpse of the profound depths of his mind. Just as Hector, a city boy turned cowboy, controls the other parts of his life as well just like he controls his steed: delicately but firmly, with style and with heart. Hector, for all his reserve, leads both in the dorm and as a gymkhana captain. Hector’s never content simply to play the role of a spectator, but, rather, he becomes actively involved in the lives of others, offering others the best of himself without reservation or reserve. We hope that the fervor that Hector feels for Thacher is similar to the devotion he feels for the national sport of his adoptive country; for, we will always remember Hectór, rallying his charges in a rousing game of whiffle ball on the Lower School lawn. This is just an example of how Hector eliminates the distance between the new boy and the one who’s on his way out in order to plant the seeds of Thacher’s philosophy: honor, fairness, kindness, and truth.  

Erin Ann von Gehr
Self-described as the “original ready, shoot, aim girl” (you have to stop a minute and listen to get it, which is usually the case when you talk with Erin), she is, as she knows, absolutely original. There is something uncommon in her approach to the world, all oblique angles, never straight lines. Not that combining being a coxswain while advancing her martial arts skills would be seen as anything unusual, anymore than playing a secret agent for the dorm open house video, complete with trench coat and unbelievably glamorous red lipstick along with spending the weekend doing a multi-pitch climb on Lenticular Dome in Joshua Tree would help to define her. This is a girl undaunted by expectation, feeling perfectly free to admit to occasional bouts of “teenage doom and gloom,” while affirming her essentially positive outlook on the possibilities that life affords.  

Part of that possibility stems from her life-long love of animals, starting with horses, including our 1600 pound Percherons as well as the occasional polo pony. She has been bitten by a baby tiger and a full-grown ostrich and had the circulation in her left arm cut off for a short while by a boa constrictor, so clearly her understanding of the animal world has nothing of the sentimental in it. In fact, her hard-edge intelligence, notably during her highly successful academic career, stands as a key feature in her make up.   
   
As she writes, “Thanks guys for making Thacher the best school or even a great planet that always been in its own orbit.” In her own orbit, that’s EVG.      

Nicholas Homans Wilder
The fact that Nicky aspires to be “the kind of person you would not mind being stuck with in a lifeboat” speaks volumes about this young man’s outlook on life. Affable, unassuming, and always willing to put others’ needs before his own, Nicky would, in fact, be an ideal boat mate. In addition to being good company, he’s a proven problem solver and an innovative thinker, which means he’s probably pretty likely to be able to get you out of the boat and back on land faster than most; moreover, given his ready wit and boyish charm, it’s likely you would enjoy yourself thoroughly in the process. A true team player both on and off the field, Nicky’s often the first to volunteer for a task—be it setting up the Los Padre’s Open House, hiking in the Sierras, or stepping into a leadership role on his athletic teams and extracurricular endeavors—and one you can count on to see his commitment through to its conclusion. Who knew that the diminutive blonde boy with the larger than life smile who arrived on campus that just over three years ago would grow—intellectually as well as physically—enough to fill the largest of shoes? A concerned prefect, a skillful climber, and a loyal friend, Nicky has contributed so much to the Thacher community in his time here. As Nicky asserts, like a boat maker who hews his craft, “Thacher has built a person out of me.” It is fortunate there were such good materials to work with.  

Ryan Doull Winter
Despite his size and his obvious strength, Ryan’s presence is more cerebral than it is physical.  It was not destined to be that way, but the knee injury that kept him out of football this year, and it was a bitter disappointment given his  hard work, does allow us to see more sharply the depth and breadth of his intellectual attainments.

What separates Ryan from most of his classmates is not that he is smarter (we are actually graduating a pretty smart bunch) or that he works harder (Ryan is quite clear about that in his own self-assessment) but that he has enormously broad interests as well as the habit of exploring those interests through personal research, thorough discussion, and real thought. As Ryan says, “some of the best intellectual stimulation I receive comes from my peers. These discussions seem most pertinent because they are not fostered through class or homework but through intellectual curiosity.”

The intellectual is anchored by the musical, the dramatic, and the technological.  Master of many instruments (basically self-taught), possessed of a wonderful voice, and happy to help with any production, as an actor, musician, or member of the tech crew, Ryan finds a real and public outlet for his artistic sensibility. He has as well a more than passing interest in computers, one that encompasses both the software and the hardware.    

Asked what he hoped colleges would know about him, he responded, “how much I love to learn and explore life.” If they don’t, they will soon find out.  

Stephanie Rae Winter
There is a surface and there is an interior, and sometimes, what you see is what you get. For Stephanie, as you move inside there is not a contradiction but really a kind of expansion. The controlled, properly dressed and coifed exterior—a little aloof, very self-assured, articulate, urbane, and informed—replicates, to an extent, the inner Stephanie. Her mind really is as ordered as her outfits, her pronouncements are based on real knowledge, and her judgments come from real standards that have been examined with real care. Stephanie does not really like surprises herself, so she is careful to keep you informed.   

While inner does mirror outer, there are a lot more mirrors inside. It comes as no surprise that she is drawn to baking. The baker, precise and controlling, must invest hours waiting and touching and judging, and judgments are based on tradition and history as well as on the individual aspects of the piece of dough under your hand right now. And, of course, no one ever bakes for herself; bread is always to be shared. Just in case you missed it (and I can assure you that Stephanie did not) this is a metaphor.    

Further, there is about Stephanie a sense of authority and engagement, of concern and understanding, that her friends respond to absolutely. One friend wrote, “I thought I had left my mother behind when I came Thacher, and then I met Stephanie.” This is not exactly a joke (the comments of friends rarely are).  Generosity, acceptance, intelligence, application: with Stephanie, we know what to look for and are still amazed at what we see.  

Sean Alexander Wyatt
When Sherman Day Thacher coined his oft-repeated phrase, “There’s something about the outside of a horse that’s good for the inside of a boy,” he must have had a premonition about Sean. From day one, Sean was bitten by the horse bug, and the experience he has gained from his equine interactions—patience, perseverance, and tenacity—have carried over into his other academic and extracurricular arenas as well. He has learned to listen well and then to act decisively; to correct mistakes and to celebrate successes; and, above all, never to give up. The sixth tries a charm, at least when it comes to scooping up the silver dollar. A true and loyal friend, Sean is always there when you need him—and not just for the glamorous jobs. Leading the charge of laundry room cleaners in the Lower School or rallying the feed crew troops, Sean pitches in whenever he can and never gives anything but one hundred percent. His integrity is admirable, and his commitment, in the Thacher tradition, to “doing the right thing, even when no one is looking” is unwavering. All this bodes well for Sean and his future, for, as he states, “Thacher is the start of the race, not the finish. It is the beginning of a journey, not the end.” The journey thus far has been spectacular. We’ll miss you, Sean. Happy trails.