The Upper School student body, faculty and proud parents gathered to celebrate the achievements of the most recent additions of nine seniors to the Cum Laude Society. Helen B., Rachel D., Hazel E., Barbara J., Nathan O., Morgan R., Matthew R., Miranda S., and Rachel W., were in the top 20% of their class, thus making them eligible for membership in the Cum Laude Society. In addition to their outstanding academic achievements, all students are active in extracurricular activities at Winchester Thurston and in the greater community.

Head of School Gary Niels opened the ceremony remarking on the wonderful accomplishments of the nine inductees as they join a society that dates back to 1906. Mr. Niels also spoke of the deep tradition of academic excellence at WT and how each inductee’s success would not be possible without the support of their family, teachers and the WT community.

Brenda Abbey Durivage, Science Department Chair, was the keynote speaker, making use of an appropriate analogy linking the inductees’ success to that of running a marathon. The students’ efforts across their Upper School career have led them to this point at the near culmination of their Upper School career, much like rigorous training aids in a runner’s completion of a marathon. She advised all students to enter the world confidently, embracing their achievements and continuing to quench their thirst for knowledge.

Congratulations to the class of 2010 Cum Laude Inductees!