News Detail - Campus Life
Celebrating the Class of 2026: Senior Awards Ceremony
On Friday, April 24, we hosted the annual Senior Awards ceremony, a cherished tradition that celebrates the outstanding achievements of our graduating seniors. Congratulations to the following students, who were honored for their academic excellence, artistic talent, leadership, service and athletic accomplishments. See photos from the ceremony here.
Speech and Performing Arts Recognition
The Thomas P. Mulligan Excellence in Speech Award
Established in 1986 in honor of trustee and beloved attorney Thomas P. Mulligan, this award is presented to the graduating senior who possesses extraordinary public speaking talent, and an interest in public service or advocacy. Furthermore, the Excellence in Speech recipient will best exemplify the core character traits of Mr. Mulligan, including a sense of fairness, intellectual curiosity and an honest appreciation for the talent of their peers.
Sean Porter ’26
Lorraine Dodero Award in Drama
The Lorraine Dodero Award in Drama is an honor given to a senior who has participated in every drama club production over the last four years, and made a significant impact on the theater program. This person has a positive attitude, a deep commitment to building our culture and exhibits excellence in acting with every performance.
Kylie Lavalley ’26
Excellence in Technical Theatre
This award is given annually to a senior who has gone above and beyond on the stage crew throughout their high school career. This year’s recipient has been a leader and has demonstrated a strong commitment to the growth of the technical theater program. They have also been involved in every production over the last four years.
Stacy Duravkina ’26
Art Awards
Excellence in Art
The Excellence in Art award is given to a student who has consistently shown a strong commitment to the fine arts during their time at Gilmour. This student not only creates outstanding original artwork but has also received recognition through various external competitions. Furthermore, they demonstrate innovation in their thinking, as well as in their use of materials and artistic processes.
Vilne Zulkute ’26
Excellence in Photography Art Award
The Excellence in Photography award is presented to a student who has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to the fine arts during their time at Gilmour. This year’s recipient has embraced photography with passion over the past four years and worked tirelessly to become an absolute professional, exploring every aspect of photography from fine art to documentary work to portraiture, with a particular focus on sports photography.
Brendan Hearns ’26
Purchase Art Award
Each year, the Fine Arts Department selects one artwork that is considered exceptional. While the quality of craftsmanship is important, it is equally essential that the piece holds significant meaning and thought behind its creation. The artwork chosen for the Purchase Award will be displayed in the Upper School Director’s Office for one year before being placed in a permanent display on campus.
Evan Mansour ’26 for her piece titled “Wrestling with Light.”
Departmental Awards
Tiho Teisl Classical & Modern Languages Awards
With our language awards, we honor the life and legacy of Tiho Teisl — beloved Spanish teacher, Dean of Students, coach, mentor and friend. He inspired our students to see language as connection, culture as gift, and service as responsibility. Through his leadership on the soccer field, in the classroom, and in the halls of our school, he shaped hearts as much as minds. It was Tiho who began our enduring relationship with Nuevo Paraíso, Honduras, opening doors to global understanding that continue to bless our community today. May these awards carry forward his spirit of curiosity, compassion, and joyful dedication.
Spanish Award
We would like to acknowledge the hard work, perseverance, and dedication this student has demonstrated in Spanish. As a heritage speaker, he entered our program with strong oral proficiency. Over the past four years, we have watched him deepen his understanding of the language’s complexity and nuance, consistently prioritizing practice, seeking help when needed, and supporting his classmates through collaborative leadership.
Sebastian Cook ’26
French Award
We would like to recognize two students for their exemplary work in French. As the only two seniors in their class to pursue all four years of French, they have shown exceptional commitment, curiosity and perseverance. Over these four years, they have developed impressive proficiency and cultural awareness, and are able to communicate with confidence while discussing increasingly complex topics with sophistication.
Zach Berman ’26 and Ciara Johnson ’26
Latin Award
This student has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to mastering Latin that extends well beyond the classroom. Rather than simply memorizing forms, she has distinguished herself through a deep understanding of grammar and syntax, allowing her to approach even the most complex passages with confidence and insight. Her genuine interest in philosophy, history and culture enriches class discussions and invites others to think more deeply about the texts. Combined with her focus, curiosity and willingness to support her peers, she has become both a leader and an invaluable presence in advanced Latin classes.
Valentina Di Censo ’26
Dual Language Award
We don’t often have the opportunity to recognize a student for achievement in two foreign languages, but this year we do. This student has accomplished something truly rare in Gilmour’s history: she has completed all available courses in both Spanish and French, and has done so with excellence. Through her enthusiastic participation, thoughtful insights and creative use of both languages, she has distinguished herself as a remarkable language learner.
Holly Hunter ’26
Innovation & Technology Award
Technology Education is best when it’s hands-on. All our computer science courses are dedicated to project-based learning. We’re fortunate to work with many prolific builders and coders and selecting a single one is a joyous challenge. This year’s recipient has demonstrated a commitment to computer science education and an impressive capacity to innovate for the betterment of the school and society. Their mastery is evident in classes, in clubs, in code and in the gracious support that they provide for their peers.
Stacy Duravkina ’26
Yearbook Award
The Yearbook Award is given to students who have impacted the Yearbook Program with major contributions. This year, based on extraordinary leadership, outstanding commitment, steadfast dedication and enduring effort, the following seniors have been selected to receive this honor.
Holly Hunter ’26 and Alex Batchik ’26
Entrepreneurial Mindset Award
The Entrepreneurial Mindset Award is presented to a senior student who has embraced the entrepreneurial spirit and forged meaningful connections within the Gilmour student and faculty/staff community. Not confined to theory, the recipient has seamlessly applied an entrepreneurial mindset to elevate either the school-owned, student-run business or their own venture. This year’s recipient exemplifies action-oriented entrepreneurship through initiative, persistence and commitment to building something meaningful.
Brody Philipp ’26
John Gale English Award
John Gale served Gilmour Academy for nearly 40 years as an English teacher, Latin teacher, Dean of Students and Dean of Studies. He exemplified excellence in the classroom and is remembered for his wit, his love of literature and his love of language. To honor the spirit of John Gale, each year, the Gilmour Academy English Department awards the John Gale Distinguished Scholar award to the top Language Arts student.
This year’s recipient is remarkable for her distinctive voice. Whether through her carefully crafted written work or in her thoughtful contribution to class discussions, she consistently strives to dig deeper, to push harder and never settles for the easy answer.
Ava Hirsch ’26
Holy Cross Award in Literature
It is the goal of the English faculty to inspire students to use the power of rhetoric to create a more humane and just society. To honor the importance of our mission, the department presents the Holy Cross Award in Literature. The recipients of this award are those who demonstrate the ability to act as agents for change and to raise the bar for those around them. Through their curiosity, passions and leadership, these students inspire their peers to do better, be better and create a better world for all.
Emily Currid ’26 and Sean Porter ’26
William G. Moore III English Award
William G. Moore III graduated from Gilmour Academy in 1951 and returned to teach English and Literature from 1963-1969. Each year, the English Department presents this award to a student from the graduating class whose commitment to the study of literature and unparalleled aptitude in the classroom reflect a worthy tribute to Mr. Moore’s legacy at Gilmour.
This year’s recipient made her mark almost the minute she entered our community. A brilliant writer, a curious intellectual thinker and a remarkably creative talent, she has enriched us all with her presence.
Esther Dai ’26
Mathematics Award
The recipient of this year’s Mathematics Award is a student who has consistently demonstrated excellent understanding and proficiency in every math course she has taken at Gilmour Academy. This student is not just a talented mathematical thinker but also displays outstanding communication, collaboration and leadership skills. She pursues understanding with depth and purpose, thoughtfully connecting ideas from math, science, literature, history and culture.
Esther Dai ’26
AP Chemistry Science Award
The AP Chemistry Award is presented to a student who not only excels in mastering the course material, but also demonstrates curiosity, enthusiasm, leadership in the classroom, and a genuine passion for conceptual understanding. This year’s recipient consistently displayed a strong thirst for knowledge, seeking to make meaningful connections between AP Chemistry concepts and other scientific disciplines, while proving herself to be a thoughtful and skilled analytical thinker.
Ellie Zorska ’26
AP Biology Science Award
The recipient of the AP Biology Award demonstrates a powerful combination of curiosity, analytical thinking, perseverance and a commitment to scientific excellence. Throughout the year, he has approached biology not simply as a subject to learn, but as a system to investigate and understand. His thoughtful questions, careful reasoning and steady determination have consistently elevated the level of discussion and inquiry in the classroom.
Conor Tietjen ’26
Oliver Seikel Award for Excellence in Science
In honor of Oliver Seikel, and to propagate the values of academic excellence, unquenchable thirst for knowledge as demonstrated through research, and perseverance in setting and achieving lofty goals, Gilmour presents the Oliver Seikel Award for Excellence in Science.
Alex Batchik ’26
Paul Primeau Science Award
The Paul Primeau Award is presented annually to the graduating senior who, in the collective judgment of the science faculty, best exemplifies the qualities of competence, scholarship and commitment to the study of science. Paul generously served the Gilmour community starting in 1957 as a chemistry teacher until 1992, and as a volunteer, supporter and friend up until his passing in November of 2020.
Esther Dai ’26
Social Studies Recognition
The Social Studies Department would like to recognize seniors for their scholarship, commitment to the field of social studies, and leadership in the classroom. Throughout their Gilmour experiences, these individuals consistently enriched their classes by posing probing questions beyond those in the curriculum and excelled in core courses, Advanced Placement offerings and elective opportunities.
Roma Alvarez ’26, Allee Bell III ’26, Holly Hunter ’26 and Steven Ingram ’26
Theology and Service Awards
Brother David Baltrinic Award
This award is presented annually in memory of Holy Cross Brother David Baltrinic, a member of the Academy faculty for 16 years. The Baltrinic Award is presented to the senior who best exemplifies Brother David’s qualities of scholarship, compassion and caring, and Judeo-Christian service.
Emily Currid ’26 and Ethan Stein ’26
Charles Murray Student Humanitarian Award
This award honors Charles Murray, who graduated from Gilmour in 1960 and dedicated his life to the less fortunate and socially disadvantaged. The Charles Murray Student Humanitarian Award is given to a student who, like Charles Murray, personifies the Gilmour mission, having not only the competence to see, but the courage to act in the name of justice and humanity.
Valentina Di Censo ’26
Saint Brother André Award
Saint Brother André was a doorkeeper at Notre Dame College in Montreal. His service was simple, but his impact was great, opening the hearts of thousands to the love of God. This award is given to students whose service work has been transformational.
Lilly Boehm ’26 and Piper Wick ’26
Chaplain’s Awards
These awards recognize seniors who give daily witness to their faith and live out Gilmour’s Holy Cross mission through example, generosity and leadership.
Blake Baskin ’26, Annie Goff ’26, Kylie Lavalley ’26, Ryan Panzica ’26, Chloe Stevens ’26 and Lucy Stevens ’26
VECTOR Recognition
The VECTOR program is designed to embolden students to explore what interests them most, whether that be Science and Medicine, Creativity and Personal Expression, Business and Entrepreneurship, Engineering and Design, or Community Engagement and Law. VECTOR students graduate with a dynamic portfolio that highlights academic coursework, experiential learning, reflective writing, a network of professionals and peers, and a unique relationship with a faculty mentor. Most recently, VECTOR students completed a Senior Capstone Project that served as an extension of their four-year journey and was shared with the community at Senior Exhibition Night.
- Business & Entrepreneurship: Holly Hunter ’26, Steven Ingram ’26, Casey Nakhooda ’26, Ashley Orlando ’26, Brody Philipp ’26, Evan Saline ’26, Greg Savron ’26, Bridget Vitale ’26
- Community Engagement & Law: Lizandra Burgos-Ramos ’26, Natalie George ’26, Valentina Di Censo ’26, Gianna Francisco ’26, Roma Alvarez ’26
- Creativity & Personal Expression: Brendan Hearns ’26, Kylie Lavalley ’26, Evan Mansour ’26
- Engineering & Design: Stacy Duravkina ’26, Ava Hirsch ’26, Ryan Panzica ’26, Gabe Souto ’26
- Science & Medicine: Roma Alvarez ’26, Charissa Baleskie ’26, Alex Batchik ’26, Lizzie Covington ’26, Emily Currid ’26, Esther Dai ’26, Eva Savelli ’26, Aubrey Terranova ’26, Piper Wick ’26, Tinsley Zhang ’26, Ellie Zorska ’26
Diversity, Wellness, and Leadership
Cathy and Pat O’Rourke Award for Leadership in Community Engagement and Impact
This award is given to a senior who has demonstrated service above and beyond to contribute to the development of a culturally and ethnically diverse community and who has imbued the spirit of intercultural competence. The purpose of this award is to encourage and acknowledge strong student leadership, advocacy and intentionality toward equity and diversity within our Gilmour community.
Lizandra Burgos-Ramos ’26
Stein Family Wellness Award
The Stein Family Wellness Award is presented annually to a senior who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to promoting holistic wellness within the Gilmour community. Through leadership, advocacy and personal example, the recipient has inspired others to engage in positive, sustainable choices that nurture the mind, heart and body, and has contributed to a healthier, more supportive school environment.
Autumn Frear ’26
Murlan J. Murphy Leadership Award
This award is given to the senior who has demonstrated qualities of leadership within our Gilmour community that exemplify Holy Cross values as recognized by the faculty. This student motivates and inspires members of the community by setting a high standard of integrity and has developed the competence to see where changes are necessary and the courage to act to make our Gilmour community and the Academy better.
Steven Ingram ’26
Robert B. Tomaro Honor Award
This award is presented annually to the Gilmour senior who has a keen mind, sense of justice and passion for doing what is right. This student most closely mirrors Robert Tomaro’s commitment to the growth and success of the Academy.
Stacy Duravkina ’26
Director of the Upper School Awards
The Director of Upper School Award recognizes seniors who have impacted our Gilmour Academy community in significant, meaningful and sometimes unrecognized ways. These students have demonstrated quiet dedication and determination in their pursuits, have brightened people’s days with their kindness and thoughtful words and actions, have acted as leaders in big and small ways, and have demonstrated personal growth during their time here at school.
Ralph Asher ’26, Allee Bell III ’26, Zachary Cox ’26, Joey DiNovo ’26, Zinyah George ’26, Hailey Gray ’26, Brendan Hearns ’26, Emily Kish ’26, Nathan Lindley ’26, Brooklyn Philips ’26, Kendall Shultz ’26, Divinity Sims-Wade ’26, Javi Swinarski ’26, Justin Switzer ’26, Sophia Velotta ’26 and Ellie Zorska ’26
Athletic Awards
OHSAA Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award
Honoring students who display exemplary sportsmanship
Blake Baskin ’26, Annie Goff ’26, Sean Pitrone ’26, Evan Saline ’26, CJ Santagata ’26, Jack Soeder ’26 and D’Airia Whitner ’26
OHSAA Courageous Student Award
Acknowledging students who have overcome great adversity in a positive way
Sebastian Cook ’26, Olivia Minello ’26 and Aubrey Terranova ’26
OHSAA Scholar-Athlete Award
Recognizing students dedicated to academic excellence while participating in interscholastic athletics
Trevor Bilant ’26, Lizzie Covington ’26, Bella DiGeronimo ’26, Gianna Francisco ’26, Luke Kaprosy ’26, Nate Lindley ’26 and Conor Tietjen ’26
NFHS Award of Excellence
Awarded to senior student-athletes who have displayed exemplary sportsmanship and integrity, or to senior students who acted as managers while displaying leadership throughout an athletic season
Zach Berman ’26, Brendan Hearns ’26, Steven Ingram ’26, Emily Kish ’26, Tim Lennon ’26, Annabelle Phipps ’26, Caroline Ptacek ’26, Bridget Vitale ’26
Dennis Hoynes Award
The Dennis Hoynes Award is presented annually to outstanding female and male scholar-athletes. Selection is based upon both a student’s academic achievement and athletic participation and performance
Zachary Cox ’26, Emily Currid ’26, Brady Panteck ’26 and Tinsley Zhang ’26
Charles A. Mooney Award
The Charles A. Mooney Award is awarded annually to the outstanding female and male athletes at the Academy in a given school year. Criteria for selection includes athletic ability, team spirit and leadership.
Ava Gundling ’26 and PJ Koerwitz Jr ’26
Special Honors
National Merit Finalists
After being named National Merit Semifinalists, these seniors advanced to National Merit Finalist status, a distinction earned by less than one percent of seniors nationally.
Esther Dai ’26, Holly Hunter ’26 and Nathan Lindley ’26
Phi Beta Kappa Recognition
The Phi Beta Kappa Society has long honored scholarship and intellectual achievement in the arts and sciences. Gilmour Academy’s recipient is recognized for academic integrity, outstanding scholarship and all-around initiative in matters of the mind.
Alex Batchik ’26
Character Awards
Gilmour Academy Lifers Recognition
We would like to recognize the following students who have been lifers here at Gilmour Academy as members of the Class of 2026. A lifer is classified as a student who has attended Gilmour since at least the first grade.
Trevor Bilant ’26, Emily Kish ’26, Timothy Lennon ’26, Nathan Lindley ’26, Casey Nakhooda ’26 and Javi Swinarski ’26
Brother James O’Donnell Campus Residency Award
Initiated in 2001, the Brother James O’Donnell Campus Residency Award is named after Br. James O’Donnell, who served as a teacher, mentor and dormitory proctor at Gilmour until his passing in 1999. The award is presented annually to the senior or post-grad residence hall student who has demonstrated strong performance in the classroom, in extracurricular activities and involvement within the residence hall community life.
Autumn Frear ’26 and Sean Porter ’26
Brother Robert Lavelle, C.S.C. Legacy of Leadership Award
This new award honors the life and legacy of Brother Robert Lavelle, C.S.C., whose presence shaped Gilmour Academy for decades. It is given to a senior who has influenced the Gilmour community not through prominence or position, but through the consistent and selfless way they support and uplift others. This student leads with humility and an unwavering care for those around them, offering a steady and dependable presence.
Evan Mansour ’26
Brother Theophane Schmitt Trophies
The Brother Theophane Schmitt Trophies are awarded annually to students who best exemplify outstanding school spirit in the tradition of the school’s founder.
Ava Gundling ’26 and Brady Panteck ’26
The Gilmour Trophies
The highest honor at Gilmour, the Gilmour Trophies are presented to seniors who best exemplify all those qualities that a Gilmour education hopes to nurture in all students. The recipients are not only excellent students, but demonstrated leaders in co- and extracurricular arenas, and individuals who have shown a clear commitment to the purposes of the Academy.
Roma Alvarez ’26 and Alex Batchik ’26
Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Your legacy of courage, leadership and compassion has left an enduring mark on Gilmour Academy. We can’t wait to see how you continue to shine.
