NDB recognized the top scholars within the Jaguars, Vipers, Sharks and especially the Monarchs classes at the annual Academic Awards Night on May 14. The ceremony recognized students in courses across the English, Kinesiology, Mathematics, Science, Social Sciences, and Visual and Performing Arts departments. Other notable awards were the Michelle Micheletti Memorial Scholarship, awarded to senior Sianna Kiebler, and the Frank Ryerson Scholarship, awarded to junior Saree Formanek.

The ceremony began at 6:30 p.m., and parents and other guests were able to watch from the bleachers, allowing students to be honored alongside their families and friends.

Each department chair was given the opportunity to present awards to one student from each course within their subject. Recipients were given certificates presented by either Associate Head of School for Curriculum & Instruction Jolanda Breazeale or Head of School Meredith Essalat ‘98.

Sophomore Sammy Kakala described her excitement and gratitude when her name was announced as the recipient of the Exploring Computer Science Principles award. While she did not expect to receive one in that subject, she was happy to be given the honor.

“I was very shocked to hear my name called when the computer science award was announced, but I am grateful to have received it,” said Kakala. “It was such a cool experience to have, and I am so glad that my efforts in CSP have been recognized.”

Sophomore Caroline Zerella was recognized by the spiritual life department and presented with the Living the Scriptures course award.

“I am so grateful that I got this award. It’s such an honor. Especially since religion is a subject I have always been interested in,” said Zerella. “I am so excited to see my progress within the subject.”

She was also awarded the National Spanish Bronze award and the AMC 10 Score Recognition award.

Shortly after, the International Student Academic Award as well as the Rising Senior Award were announced. Special recognition was given to the recipients within the junior and senior classes who were awarded these honors.

The second half of the ceremony was an opportunity to especially spotlight the highest-achieving seniors. Some were awarded the St. Julie Billiart Scholar awards. A few Seniors were also awarded scholarships to various colleges, such as the University of Rochester.

Seniors Maggie Templeton and Nicole Fong were announced as valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. They were each given special recognition with a certificate and sash. Both were chosen for their exceptional academic performance and community involvement.

From departmental awards to special recognitions to the announcement of salutatorian and valedictorian, the ceremony highlighted the students’ hard work over the 2024-2025 school year.