THE HAGGIS BAGGIS LITERARY AWARD
The Haggis Baggis Literary Award is presented annually to a student who has made outstanding contributions to Haggis Baggis.
This student’s enthusiasm for Haggis Baggis was apparent from the first weeks of school, when she met with me as a co-editor and discussed ways the magazine could improve and grow. She showed great excitement for the work and brought in as many artists as possible. As a result, we had upwards of 40 sign-ups for Haggis Baggis after the fall club fair. Each issue was colorful, unique, and showcased a wide variety of the talents Miss Porter’s has to offer. She also helped engineer a Haggis Baggis mini-issue ‘preview’, in which students could show their work in between issues. We will definitely miss her next year, but I know she will continue to express her love for art and writing everywhere she goes.
This year’s Haggis Baggis Award goes to Olivia Montminy.
THE VIRGINIA CORRIGAN TRACY PRIZE FOR JOURNALISM
This award is presented to a member of the Salmagundy staff for service to the newspaper, use of excellent journalism skills, and demonstration of moral integrity and good ethics through contributions to the paper.
Over the past two years, this student has worked tirelessly to elevate Salmagundy and revive its publication following its Covid-19 hiatus. She has advocated for both the paper and the staff of Salma, promoting a student-centered publication and an intentional space for student voice. As she herself said, the one legacy she wants to leave is the paper, and she has done so with excellence. She has been instrumental in not only steering the current Salmagundy ship, but positioning next year’s editors-in-chief to be able to elevate the paper even further.
This year’s Virginia Corrigan Tracy Prize for Journalism is awarded to:
Ketong Li
THE DORA QUINTANA PLOUGH WRITING PRIZE goes to the senior who exhibits commitment and passion for writing that is serious, profound, and continuing. Previously known as the English Writing Prize, the prize is named for Dora Quintana Plough, who served the school for 32 years as a teacher, Chair of the Language Department, Academic Dean, and Ward L. Johnson Teaching Chair recipient.
This student exemplifies what it means to not only strive in writing but to embrace both the struggles and triumphs of the craft. In Art of the Argument, she fully embraced the revision process, completing numerous drafts, meeting with teachers, and utilizing the varied resources which make a writer great. Her commitment to the process has been a hallmark of her approach to English at Miss Porter’s over the past four years. As Nora Roberts once said about writing, “[As a writer] you have to have the three D’s: drive, discipline, and desire. If you’re missing any one of those three, you can have all the talent in the world, but it’s going to be really hard to get anything done.” This student engages in writing with her whole heart and brings drive, discipline, and desire to every writing endeavor.
The Dora Quintana Plough Writing Prize goes to Lucy Marshall.
THE LUCY BYRD PEGAU AWARD
The Lucy Byrd Pegau Award is given in recognition of the hard work of the yearbook staff and editors and with special thanks to Su Li who did the beautiful cover design and artwork.
While each senior and junior editor was integral to the overall process of the yearbook’s completion, the recipient of this award is given to a student who worked tirelessly, efficiently, without complaint, and always with such a positive outlook through the many….many….trials and tribulations it takes to complete a yearbook. The 2023 yearbook would not have been the quality that you see or even made it here to Farmington in time for graduation without the work and management by this student. I am beyond grateful for her work and for showing me so much along the way that I can’t wait to implement for next year!
I’m pleased to award the Lucy Byrd Pegau Award to: Susie Dixon.
THE JOANNA MITCHELL RADWAY MEMORIAL PRIZE FOR HISTORY OF ART is given to a student with a deep and abiding interest in art history, a subject in which Joanna Radway, Class of 1939, was deeply interested in and in which she excelled.
I am so honored to present this award to a student who brings curiosity, an open mind and a genuine passion for the visual language of art. Kind, curious and highly-engaged describe this student who always shows up to class with the most positive attitude and friendly smile. I continue to be inspired by the thoughtful observations and connections this student makes with art history during our class discussions and in her excellent written work. I have no doubt she will succeed in whatever path she takes and inspire those around her to engage with art in unique and thoughtful ways.
I am so very happy to present this award to: Jules Zinn Rowthorn.
THE SARAH B. MACLENNAN HUMANITIES AWARD is given in her honor by a former student. Miss MacLennan taught the history of art at Miss Porter’s School from 1930 to 1969. For generations, under her tutelage, colors exploded, forms emerged, and styles evolved. Her favorite pupils were not those who rapidly parroted facts, but those with an instinctive reaction to the art.
I have had the great privilege of getting to know this student through our time together this year in 19th and 20th-century art history and museum studies. I am so impressed with how confident and knowledgeable she has become in her ability to engage with art through research and inquiry. This student never misses an opportunity to contribute an original thought or personal insight during our class discussions. Her willingness to share her ideas provides unique perspectives for her classmates to experience and expand upon. I sincerely appreciate the kindness and thoughtfulness this student has shown from the very first day I met her. She exudes such a genuine interest in art history and I have no doubt she will continue to share her knowledge and inspire others to do the same.
I am so very happy to present this award to: Ellen Jacobson.
THE HUGHES ART AWARD
This visual arts prize is given annually by Mr. and Mrs. J. Lawrence Hughes, parents of Alexandra Hughes, Class of 1969.
Among the many talented artists in the class of 2023 is one who has taken on an art leadership role throughout her years at Porter’s and contributed to the community through Haggis Baggis, The Art Club, and as Co-Head of Main. She won ten Scholastic Art Awards, including a National one for her animated film My Diary 2020. Both inventive and observational, whether touchingly expressed in brief characterizations of people and places or epically composed with stunning details, her work is wide-ranging in media. Always humble and eager to learn, asking deep questions, she is an exceptional human being. Her artwork is poignant, challenging, and heartfelt.
This year, the Hughes Art Award goes to: Junyue (Diana) Ma.
THE HUGHES MUSIC AWARD
In addition to the Hughes Art Award, the J. Lawrence Hughes family also gives an annual prize for excellence in music. This award is given to a student who represents the Porter’s music community, both inside and outside the school, through musical leadership and commitment.
This year’s recipient of the Hughes Music Award has been the exemplar for representing the MPS Music program both on and off campus. She has given freely to the music program through ensemble membership, mentoring younger MPS Musicians, and as a soloist. This student’s intense dedication to music is second to none and happens not because there is an audition to prepare for or a competition to win (although she has done those things) but because the music itself deserves it. She has earned breathtaking honors through the CT State music competitions, winning the title of THE best cellist in the state during her Junior year. She has been a soloist at Carnegie Hall! This year, she was named to the All-Eastern Orchestra, a group made up of only the most accomplished musicians from 13 different states. This student has impressed me with her deep understanding of music and commitment to excellence since her Porter’s application video while in middle school.
This year’s Recipient of the Hughes Music Award is Jimin Kim.
MISS PORTER’S SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHY AWARD
This year’s recipient has used her camera to examine big ideas–ideas so big that she’s had to push the limits of traditional photographic display just to be able to contain them. She’s asked important questions. She’s asked us to stop asking her questions. Her photo installations have shown us about beauty, failure, humor, style, protest, play, futurism, perfectionism, futility, and joy. She’s made photos of her photos, screenprints of her photos; she’s made laser cut photos, photocopies, stickers, and flyers for grassroots movements that are fake (or are they?) Her art is real. She’s so very real. She’s one of a kind.
I’m truly delighted to present this year’s Photography Award to: Elizabeth Akomolafe.
JEAN D. GREY THEATRE PRIZE
Jean Grey came to Miss Porter’s School in the late 1930’s and devoted the next 35 years to the personal growth of her drama students through her creativity, her unfailing energy, and her understanding of, and love for, the magic of theater. Since 1973, this award has been given in her memory to girls who, like Miss Grey, have given of their time and energy on and off stage to ensure the continued high quality of the theatre arts at Miss Porter’s School.
This student has been an enthusiastic and engaged member of the Porter’s drama community, from her first theatre class taken over zoom, to now being one of the most important leaders and champions of the program. This student’s acting growth has been remarkable. Whether playing a cabinet or flinging herself all over the stage in larger roles, there is no question why she has twice won the coveted “Hidden Gem” Award as voted on by her peers at the end-of-year Drama Banquet. We are very fortunate to have this remarkable student, leader, collaborator, and genuinely kind person within our community, and I am deeply grateful to get to work with this student for one more year.
It is my immense honor to present the 2023 Jean D. Grey Theatre Prize to Anna Parker.
THE FLORENCE PALMER DOUGLAS ’57 MEMORIAL AWARD
This award, named in memory of Florence Palmer Douglas, Class of 1957, is given annually to that senior who best represents her spirited commitment to academics and athletics at Miss Porter’s School.
This next award winner has shown how to find balance, both figuratively and literally. Her approach to academics and sports and being able to win doing both is exemplary. Her ability to find the balance on the diving team has made me question if being perfect is actually an attainable goal!? This student-athlete has broken the diving record three times….and that is only this past season! I am sure that the company that prints the new records thinks that we are joking whenever we request upgrades every other week. Finding balance is not easy, but she may have found the recipe as she searches for the pursuit of excellence. On top of all of her successes, she is a happy, respectful and humble person.
The Florence Palmer Douglas Award goes to the legend Jaya Magavi.
THE DOTTY MORRELL COLEMAN AWARD FOR SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT IN ATHLETICS
The Dotty Morrell Coleman Award, Class of 1926, is given in honor of Dotty Morell Coleman, who loved all forms of athletics and captained several teams. It was Dotty who conceived the idea of calling the three Porter’s teams the Minks, Possums, and Squirrels. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and her love for the School was a constant. The senior class members are asked to vote on who they feel most typifies Dotty’s winning spirit.
This award is voted on by you, the students and for me, there is no bigger honor, than being recognized for your contribution to athletics by your peers. Faculty aren’t allowed to vote for this, so please know that the class of 2023 got this one spot on! I am proud to say that the winner of this award is a three-sport varsity athlete; she excels with Varsity Field Hockey, Varsity Ski and Varsty Tennis. On top of that, she is the captain of all of those teams! This student-athlete has shown us all time and time again that leadership is not a position or a title but something you show with actions and by your own examples. I am delighted to announce that the winner of the Dotty Morell Coleman Award goes to the composed, caring and consistent: Annika Mannix.
THE POLLY LAUGHLIN MEMORIAL TROPHY AWARD
The Polly Laughlin Memorial Trophy award, voted on by the School’s coaches, is given by the Athletic Department for character, leadership, and sportsmanship. The winner of this award displays all three, on or off the field. Her character shines through even when things are hard, she leads in the difficult moments with enthusiasm and calmness, and my only disappointment is that I didn’t have the opportunity to coach one of the best leaders I have seen on a Porter’s Athletics team. This student-athlete works hard, as many do, but the difference is that she is patient as she waits for her actions to accumulate and trusts her process. The winner of this award takes more joy from others achieving than when she does; that’s not easy, and it’s rare, but it’s why you need a role model like this one on your team by your side.
It is my honor to award the Polly Laughlin Memorial Trophy to Lilly Provost.
THE CUM LAUDE SOCIETY
The Cum Laude Society was founded in 1906 to encourage and recognize the scholastic achievement of secondary school students for the purpose of promoting excellence, justice, and honor. Miss Porter’s School became a member of the Cum Laude Society in 1975. The members of the senior class who achieved this recognition in their junior year are:
Claire Cortland, Madison Donelson, Abigail Gamache, Jimin Kim, Su Li, Vijayalakshmi Magavi, Emma Trzupek, Chuhan Wang
Members of this class who are inducted into the Cum Laude Society in their senior year are:
Elizabeth Akomolafe, Sarah Cosentino, Claire Kaplan, Julia Kennedy, Olivia Kim,
Diana Ma, Madeline Mazlish, Lucy Newmyer, Angela Royle, Sydney Zarb
MARIA MCKINNEY PRIZE FOR ENGLISH
The Maria McKinney Prize for English is given in memory of a beloved teacher who taught at this school from 1923 to 1939. It is awarded annually to the senior who demonstrates competency in writing, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for language and learning.
The recipient of this award is an extremely hard-working, humble, and accomplished student on our campus. In her AIS Art of the Argument course this past winter, this student challenged readers to think critically about issues of race, greed, and integrity in both her Op-Ed and her in-depth final argument. As a writer, she holds herself to a high standard by thinking carefully about stylistic details such as diction, syntax, and tone, and in doing so, she has crafted pieces that are insightful and persuasive. This student is not afraid to tackle complex topics and her voice is refreshingly honest and original in all of her pieces. Her passion for intellectual inquiry and devotion to presenting an informed perspective ensures that her pieces are credible and meticulous. Although she may have suffered a bit crafting an annotated bibliography for 40 sources this past winter, she honed her research into a powerful, in-depth critique of the pharmaceutical industry, highlighting court cases and details the average consumer wouldn’t know much about. This student is clearly capable of using her writing to shape the thinking of others, and she is well-prepared to influence the world around her, one word at a time.
The Maria McKinney Prize for English is awarded to Claire Kaplan.
THE FARMINGTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY AMERICAN HISTORY PRIZE The Farmington Historical Society sponsors this prize to encourage the study of American history and recognize students who have shown marked enthusiasm for and accomplishment in historical studies.
In a world that often values noise, assertiveness, and extroversion, it’s easy to forget the incredible strengths that come with being quiet and introspective. The most vocal person in the room is often assumed to be the most confident or competent. But this is not always the case. Quieter students often have a unique ability to listen deeply, to reflect on their thoughts, and weigh perspectives more critically. They are often excellent problem solvers, innovators, and artists.
One student, in particular, has demonstrated the power of quiet in the classroom during her time at Miss Porter’s School. She may not always be the first to speak up, but when she does, it is often with great thoughtfulness and insight. Do not be fooled. Her quiet presence is not passive. It is rather an active strength and self-assured posture that benefits our community. She has an ability to focus, listen deeply, and think critically in a way that rivals her gregarious and more verbose peers. I am grateful for the lessons she has taught us and commend the creative and non-verbal methods she has explored to enthusiastically communicate her ideas.
The History Department is pleased to award this year’s Farmington Historical Society American History Prize to: Evelyne Beaule.
THE SHIRLEY LANGHAUSER AWARD IN HISTORY
Shirley Langhauser taught history at Miss Porter’s School from 1965 until her retirement in 1994. Shirley was especially concerned with expanding the international and non-Western focus of the history program at Porter’s and created a number of popular, highly regarded courses that were an integral part of the history department’s curriculum. The award is given to the graduating senior who best exemplifies Shirley’s creative and enthusiastic approach to a breadth of historical interests.
This student has taken a global approach to her academic endeavors at Porter’s since her 9th-grade year. Inquisitive, ambitious, and kind, she is thoughtful in her work, considerate of all perspectives, and exhibits a willingness to respond to constructive feedback. Her creativity shines through across all disciplines and has been especially evident in her enthusiasm for history. This student’s fascination with other cultures and perspectives affords her a valuable lens as she heads to university. She is not afraid to ask tough questions or push back against the echo chamber. I have watched her grow in her written expression and verbal discussion skills and appreciate the mature and brave steps she has taken to develop her own voice.
This year, the History Department is pleased to award this year’s Shirley Langhauser Award in History to Molly Jorden.
ELIZABETH NOYES HEMPSTONE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN CLASSICAL AND MODERN LANGUAGES
This award has been endowed in perpetuity by the friends and relatives of Elizabeth Noyes Hempstone, Class of 1910, whose ties to the school have always been strong. We award the Classical and Modern Language Prize in recognition of a senior’s dedication, perseverance, and achievement in languages, as well as her overall sense of responsibility.
This year’s winner is a passionate, dedicated, and talented language learner who uses every opportunity to interact with others in the target language, ask compelling syntactical questions, and possess an innate curiosity about the cultures these languages represent. This student arrived on campus with an advanced French level and continued her Spanish trajectory to the highest possible level. She can articulate complex sentences spontaneously and use nominal and adverbial clauses in subjunctive in any given interaction. Her musical ear allows this student to pronounce the words like a native speaker. And, she is currently learning Portuguese.
We are absolutely thrilled to present the Elizabeth Hempstone Award for Excellence in Classical and Modern Languages to: Mia McIntosh.
THE DORIS PROUT LATIN IMPROVEMENT AWARD
This award was created through a bequest from Flora H. Lutz, classics teacher at Porter’s for 29 years, in memory of Doris M. Prout, who taught Latin here from 1946 to 1968. It is presented to the student who, in the opinion of her teachers, has made the greatest improvement in her work in the advanced classes of the Latin language.
This student deserves this award, as they have consistently improved their reading, writing, and speaking skills each day in Latin class. This student demonstrates a strong growth mindset and consistently asks clarifying questions about each assignment and learning standard. They want to learn for the sake of learning and have a high level of intrinsic motivation for success. They are willing to try, even if they don’t feel like they will succeed immediately and understand that practice makes progress. It has been exciting to see this student’s confidence grow with each day, especially from year to year. I look forward to seeing even more growth and improvement next year.
I am excited to grant this year’s Doris Prout Latin Improvement award to Aletheia Lin.
THE MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT PRIZE
The mathematics department awards a prize annually to an outstanding student from the senior class.
This year’s Math Department Prize recipient goes to a mathematician who has continually demonstrated excellence in mathematics and problem-solving since her earliest days here. One math teacher describes her as “an outstanding mathematician. She has the perfect blend of intuition and persistence that she exercises to solve even the most challenging problems. She never does anything by half measures, digging deep into problems to not only understand their solutions, but also the underlying mathematics at work.”
I wholeheartedly concur with this statement. I have also had the honor of working with this student. She is one who is incredibly thoughtful and intentional about her work. She is a true mathematician who views her work as a craft to hone. She has enlightened her peers and teachers alike here at Porter’s, and I have no doubt that she will continue to do so in her next adventures.
I am so honored to present the Math Department Prize to Su Li.
THE MARY S. McINTOSH PRIZE in MATHEMATICS is given in honor of Mary S. McIntosh who was a member of the mathematics department and Director of Studies, and whose dedication to the students of Miss Porter’s School was central to her mission as a teacher, advisor, and administrator throughout her 25 years of service.
When the math department selects nominees for the Mary McIntosh Prize, we look for a student who brings a spark of joy to the class. This year’s recipient certainly does just that. Seeing her face light up with the excitement at the unfolding of an epic new revelation in mathematics class infects her classmates with the same passion. As a math teacher, there is truly nothing more I could ask for. One math teacher says that “This student takes true joy in mathematics. Her curiosity is evident every day in class, as she explores the meaning of math beyond the curriculum. Seeing this student appreciate the beauty of math and its symmetries is incredibly rewarding as a teacher.” Another math teacher (and this student’s advisor) tells a story about how this student is a fierce advocate for mathematics in the mathematics vs. philosophy debate that frequently occurs in their advisory. This student was so moved by conversations she had in her math classes this year that she, along with another classmate, founded the “infinity club”.
It is with great joy that I present the Mary McIntosh Prize to Lauren Brennan.
THE MOUNT HOLYOKE COLLEGE BOOK AWARD
Mount Holyoke College has a long history of educating women scientists. This award, presented by the Mount Holyoke Club of Hartford, recognizes superior achievement in biology.
This student is a tenacious learner who dedicates herself to constantly improving her skills, and who is motivated to learn more and do more out of genuine concern and compassion for life. She sets goals for herself, such as improving her presentation skills, and she takes steps to meet them. As a result of her dedication, her presentation skills, research skills, and collaboration skills are all impressive and, at minimum, college-level in the opinion of her teachers.
I’m pleased to present this award to Sydney Zarb.
THE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION AWARD is given to a student who has clearly demonstrated knowledge of environmental issues, commitment to stewardship of our fragile environment, and excellence in original environmental research.
As a head of Earth Club, this student has devoted herself to making campus a more sustainable place. Whether repurposing old pillowcases into tote bags or working in the community garden, she is always ready to dig in and get her hands dirty. Her interests in sustainability have permeated throughout her coursework, culminating in her capstone project on developing curricula to teach communities about making more sustainable choices. She will undoubtedly continue pushing for change in her time beyond Porter’s.
The Environmental Action Award goes to Lilly Provost.
THE ALICE HAMILTON AWARD for EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE
This Science Department Prize has been named in honor of Dr. Alice Hamilton, Class of 1889, who was one of America’s foremost chemists, an authority on lead poisoning, and the first woman on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. It is fitting, therefore, to recognize high achievement in science in her name.
This student has excelled throughout her science career at Porter’s. Her strong degree of proficiency in handling complex ideas and complicated procedures is indicative of an exemplary scientist, and she collaborates well with her classmates. She’s tenacious and diligent, brilliant but humble in her excellence. She doesn’t need to be the biggest voice in the room and is willing to bring her colleagues with her on a path to success. We’ll hear her name in the future.
I’m pleased to present the Alice Hamilton Award for Excellence in Science to: Emma Trzupek.
THE DARTMOUTH COLLEGE BOOK AWARD
The Dartmouth Club Book Award recognizes a young woman in the junior class who has demonstrated outstanding academic and leadership qualities and whose high moral character, imagination and concern for others has made a positive impact on our school and community. The award is intended to recognize consistently superior performance in a number of different areas, be it the arts, academics, athletics, and other areas of achievement.
This student is like oxygen. She only attracts notice when she is absent. This is how she likes it–dependable, loyal, incredibly hardworking, and humble. She doesn’t seek the limelight and will do anything to help her teammates, friends, and classmates. She can do it all. She’s dedicated to academic success, athletic excellence, and service to others. I’ve had the privilege of advising this student for three years, and I’m continuously impressed by her maturity and compassion.
I’m happy to present this award to Sara Babigian.
THE JANE DURSTON GROAT PRIZE
The Jane Durston Groat Prize, given by Anne Eyre Trainer, Class of 1995, and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Trainer, is given to a spirited and enthusiastic member of the senior class whose growth as a student was enhanced by her attendance at Miss Porter’s School.
We have a student in our midst who I think may be a magical unicorn. This student leaves a trail of sunshine everywhere she goes. She has an extraordinary capacity to make those around them feel fantastic. She is observant, thoughtful, humble, kind, and also, wonderfully hilarious. This student is a superlative leader, and an equally adept collaborator. She has brought her myriad talents to bear on everything she has undertaken in her time at Porter’s. I feel blessed to have gotten to work closely with this student as her teacher, producer, and now advisor.
It is an honor that I get to announce that The Jane Durston Groat Prize goes to Maren Frey.
ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION AWARD
This award is made annually to a senior whose generosity of spirit, sense of service, and enthusiastic involvement with the school embody the best qualities of Farmington women.
During her four years in Farmington, this community member has shown time and again that she is committed to Porter’s, the ancients, and the future generations of women who will come here. She represents the very best of what it means to be a Porter’s student – always leading with empathy, intelligence, and compassion and modeling a tireless work ethic. In her work with a myriad of organizations, including Salmagundy, tour guides, FaceUp and the Nova Nine, she has demonstrated her commitment to serving those around her and working to make the communities she enters more welcoming and joyful spaces. Her intellectual curiosity underpins her desire to create spaces where differences are truly celebrated, and we are a better institution because of her.
The Alumnae Association Award goes to Lucy Newmyer.
THE LINDA FULTON BURNS MEMORIAL AWARD
This award is made annually in memory of Linda Fulton Burns, Class of 1955. The award is voted on by members of the senior class and is presented to a fellow senior who exhibits Linda’s characteristics: compassion, generosity, patience, kindness, and being a faithful friend to all.
This is a special time of year for me because I get to spend time reflecting on the senior class, how much they have grown, and how they have impacted my life. We “expect our graduates to shape a changing world,” but right now, we are celebrating ways in which they have already positively shaped our own community here at Miss Porter’s School. This senior has certainly had a significant and lasting impact on me, and I am unsurprised, but at the same time overwhelmed with pride and emotion that she has left the same lasting impression on her peers. I could spend so much time talking about how great this student is from a teacher’s perspective– how she is dependable and responsible and how she shines by quietly going about her way just doing amazing things. But this is an award that her peers voted on, so I will do my best to speak from the perspective of her peers.
“Compassion, generosity, patience and kindness, and a faithful friend to all.” All of these words describe this student so well, but the ones that stand out to me the most are “patience and kindness.” High school is a turbulent time, and a lot is going on in the short time spent in high school. Our graduating seniors have experienced a particularly turbulent and challenging four years. So, for them, “patience” is a virtue that is hard to come by. Yet this student has remained patient throughout her four years here. Throughout all the challenges faced and all the changes…this student kept her cool. That is amazing, but what is truly remarkable is that when her own peers were not able to exhibit the same patience as her (which is warranted and expected… I lost my cool several times), not only did this student remain patient, but she treated them with kindness. What better way to combat a meltdown than to embrace it with kindness? It is no wonder why this student was selected to be head of diversity, and no surprise that her classmates have selected her for this award as a show of their gratitude.
I am so grateful to this student myself and incredibly proud to present this award to Zoe Brown.
The Sarah Porter Award for Excellence in Teaching Award has been conferred each year since 2005 to a faculty member and is chosen by the students.
Past award winners have included Dr. Elena Castro Diaz, Sarah Quinn, Dr. Elizabeth Simison, and Katrina Council.
In May, students were asked to nominate an outstanding educator who demonstrates the following qualities:
- The teacher has a thorough knowledge appropriate for their teaching assignment and stays abreast of recent developments in the field.
- The teacher uses a variety of teaching techniques suitable to the age and needs of the students and the subject matter being taught.
- The teacher establishes positive relationships with students, which, while recognizing the differing roles of adult and child, are characterized by mutual respect and goodwill.
- The teacher models integrity, curiosity, responsibility, creativity, respect for all persons, and an appreciation for racial, cultural, and gender diversity.
Here are some of the comments students shared about this year’s winner:
“This teacher is my favorite this year. Starting as a new girl freshman, I really loved how they welcomed me into the school by being supportive and sweet.”
“This teacher is JUST SO KIND AND POSITIVE.”
“I haven’t met another teacher that was more inclusive in the classroom setting.”
“This teacher likes to think outside of the box and use different ways to teach the topic we are learning.”
“This teacher has been the best advisor ever and always supports me and my fellow advisees in everything we do, even if they don’t understand it fully.”
“This teacher has been a great club advisor and teacher; she always replies to emails and texts promptly and has gone above and beyond in helping us with projects that assist learning outside.”
“She was a teacher of mine during the Costa Rica trip, and I just wanted to show my gratitude for all of the positivity that she brought to the experience, as well as the knowledge.”
“She not only taught me the Biology material in a very memorable way but also set a good example for who I want to be when I age.”
I am proud to present this award today to a passionate educator who has made her purpose, her North Star, the students.
On behalf of the students at Miss Porter’s School, I am pleased to present the 2023 Sarah Porter Excellence in Teaching Award to Cate Rigolout.
