Wednesday, June 4, marked the Graduation ceremony for Kent School’s Class of 2025. Students, parents, employees, Trustees and community gathered in the M. V. “Mike” Williams Gymnasium to celebrate the graduating class. The twelve member class was recognized for their embodiment of academic, artistic, athletic and moral excellence.
In her opening remarks, Head of School Nancy Mugele said, “Kent School has given you an extraordinary foundation and instilled in you a love of learning – a love, I hope, that will last a lifetime. We have taught you how to think for yourself and how to ask good questions. You have learned many lessons inside and outside of the classroom, and have grown into empathetic, honorable, and responsible citizens. And, I know you are ready to take your place in your new high school communities.”
Kirk Wright, a Kent School graduate from the Class of 1982, was the 2025 Graduation Speaker. After his Kent School graduation, Kirk graduated from The Lawrenceville School, followed by an undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University. Kirk then earned an MBA from The University of Washington in Seattle before beginning his career in the Tech sector.
In his address, Kirk said “It’s surreal to stand here today. I’ve worked with some of the world’s largest tech companies and traveled to over 25 countries. But I can honestly say: some of the most important things I ever learned — I learned right here at Kent School.”
Wright continued, “The secret I want to share is this: if you’ve been paying attention, you already have most of what you need to succeed. See, Kent School doesn’t just teach reading, art, science, music, and math. These teachers have helped grow your emotional intelligence — how you treat people, how you handle setbacks, how you find courage. The words of the year you’ve had — Joy, Believe, Imagine, Grateful, Connect, Kindness, Courage — are more than decorations. They’re skills. Real-world, grown-up, career-changing skills. And this year’s word, Courage, might be the most important one of all. Because courage isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s a quiet voice that says, “I’ll try again tomorrow.” Or, “I’ll introduce myself, even if it’s awkward.” Or, “I’ll admit I was wrong.”
At Graduation, several merit awards are presented. The Brian B. Kane, Jr. Award is given to a 7th Grade student who demonstrates determined effort, quality academic work, and displays a helpful, cooperative and responsible attitude. The award is the only Kent School award with a monetary value. Seventh Grade student Anderson Kaiser was awarded the 2025 Brian B. Kane, Jr. Award.
The Americanism Award is presented in recognition of the student who demonstrates the qualities of courage, honor, leadership, patriotism, scholarship and service. The Americanism award was presented by the Sgt. Preston Ashley American Legion Post 228 in recognition of this student’s outstanding servant leadership, compassion, and, most importantly, his outstanding citizenship and service to the School. This award, given by John and Genie Larrimore, was presented to Zac Gray.
The Joan C. Merriken Award for Excellence in Literature is given in recognition of a student who demonstrates a love of literature, appreciation of and sensitivity to the writer’s art, and ability to use reading as a well-spring for rich self expression. The recipient of this award exemplifies a profound passion for literature. She consistently engages in thought-provoking discussions, eagerly dives into her reading assignments, and is excited to express her thoughts through writing.The 2025 recipient was Mackie Zierfuss,
The Osprey Award is given in recognition of the student who best represents the most positive qualities of moral leadership and excellence to the Kent School Community. This year’s winner exemplified these traits. Whether participating in the classroom, on the sports field, or performing on stage, she continually motivates her classmates with positive affirmations and helpful suggestions. She is an outstanding role model for younger students. Ava Goodall was the recipient of the 2025 Osprey Award.
Finally, remarks were shared about each graduate as they were awarded their Certificate of Completion. Members of the Kent School’s Class of 2025 will be attending the following secondary schools: The Gunston School, Queen Anne’s County High School, St. James School and Woodberry Forest School.
Kent School, located on the bank of the Chester River in historic Chestertown is an independent school serving children in Preschool through Grade Eight. Kent School prepares students for active citizenship through joyful and rigorous academics, arts, and athletics in an inclusive community that fosters moral excellence.
