A Milestone Morning: 49 Sixth Formers Join Cum Laude Society, Dozens of Prizes Awarded

With classes complete and Commencement and Term-End Experience Week approaching, Friday, May 29, offered plenty to celebrate, including the 2026 Choate Rosemary Hall Cum Laude Induction Ceremony and the School’s 136th Prize Day.

As the little and big hands of the clock raced towards the nine, a plethora of sixth formers made their way up the hill past Brownell and Macquire Gymnasium. Draped in their very best Special Academic Dress, their faces sported looks of glee and happiness as they gathered, connected with loved ones who traveled for the weekend's festivities, laughed with friends, and dove into the light breakfast offerings.

Faculty members at Choate Rosemary Hall invited more than three dozen exceptional, high-achieving students who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to academic excellence and intellectual growth. In recognition of their desire for knowledge and demonstration of character, honor, and integrity throughout their time at Choate, the following sixth formers have been elected to the Choate Rosemary Hall Chapter of the Cum Laude Society:

As family members, faculty, and friends looked on, each student was recognized not only for academic achievement but for a sustained commitment to curiosity, scholarship, and personal integrity. Their induction into the Cum Laude Society serves as a fitting tribute to years of hard work and a meaningful milestone as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their journeys. However, the day's celebration did not end there.

As the ceremony ended, students, faculty, and welcomed guests made their way from Ruutz-Rees to Ann & George Colony for the School's 136 Prize Day. Across all forms, more than three dozen prizes for academic, artistic, and athletic excellence, as well as exemplary character and contributions to campus life. The School also presented Sally Green Hart and Larry A. Hart Citations to the following members of the Class of 2026:

• Lois Kahu ’26
• Savannah Emery ’26
• Levi York ’26
• Luke Hegarty ’26

Awarded annually to four graduating students, Hart Citations are given to sixth formers who have "given the school a special flavor, performed unique services, and who have won the affection and respect of their peers." Together, these celebrations—Prize Day and the Cum Laude Society Induction Ceremony—captured the spirit of a class defined not only by achievement, but by character, curiosity, and community. As the Class of 2026 looks ahead to Commencement, the recognitions of the day stand as both a reflection of their time at Choate and a promising indication of the paths they will forge beyond it.

Photo Credit: Joseph M. Avena is a Digital Content Producer at Choate Rosemary Hall, bringing expertise in content creation and community engagement.

Editorial Credit: Ryan Shepard '14 is the Manager of Editorial Services at Choate Rosemary Hall, bringing 10+ years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and content strategy.