The Jodi Calvario ’03 Award given to that Sixth Form girl who demonstrates outstanding Leadership and high Sportsmanship in competitive athletics | Alexa Giacche
Alexa, a four-year member and dual captain of both the varsity basketball and softball teams, is one of the most selfless, hard-working student athletes to come through The Hill School in recent memory. Alexa is known as the workhorse on her teams because she relishes the process of getting better each and every day. Never one to embrace the spotlight, rather, it is her humble leadership and genuine friendship that makes her a beloved teammate to many. Alexa’s legacy will inspire and drive female student athletes at The Hill for years to come. As she has done here at Hill, Alexa will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the University of Maryland next year.
The Medal(s) awarded by The Hill School for the late Oscar Cox in memory of his father Jacob Cox, for the greatest improvement in scholarship at The Hill School | Sami Hidrobo
JFK once said, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” Sami came to Hill during her fifth form year from a private school in Quito, Ecuador. Entering The Hill at that point requires you to hit the ground running. Sami, dove in and has persevered not because she was told to, but because “she” wanted to. Surrounding herself with ambitious friends, taking a challenging course load, seeking clarification when she faltered, and never too proud to accept that sometimes you just don’t know. She created for herself a path to success, culminating with this award.
The Hill School Achievement Award, donated by the Reuben Family, given to that Hill School Sixth Former who, in the opinion of the Faculty Prize Committee, demonstrates the greatest improvement during the course of his or her Hill School experience. The award is to recognize not only improvement, but also strength of resolve, character, and a desire to achieve in some area | Xavier Mayo
If you have been to a Hill School Boys’ Varsity Basketball game in the past three years, you know something about Xavier – or X as he is known around campus. He is perhaps the hardest worker on the floor and has an energy and persistence that is unparalleled. All of those traits demonstrated on the court have also been demonstrated through other aspects of Xavier’s tenure at Hill. Despite having a fourth form year riddled with adversity, Xavier has pushed through those hardships and has come out on the other side stronger and even more determined to succeed. As Xavier goes on to NJIT next year, his Hill career should be a beacon of light to anyone who feels like they are struggling, because he struggled and came out victorious.
The J. T. Moore, ’41 Special Recognition Award presented by The School in Recognition of Outstanding Leadership in enhancing the Morale, Spirit and Character of the Class | Patrick Neiswender
Dwight D. Eisenhower once said that “The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionable integrity. Without it, no real success is possible…” Integrity is the basis of Patrick’s successful leadership at The Hill. His teachers, coaches, and dorm parents can attest to his unfailing reliability, honesty, and maturity. However, the relationships that Patrick has formed with his classmates are, perhaps, the strongest indicators of his leadership at Hill. Affectionately referred to as “Dad” by his friends and teammates, Patrick’s compassion and thoughtfulness have established the admiration of his peers. What’s more, the high level of integrity that guides his actions seems to come naturally to Patrick and he will no doubt achieve great success as a result of this inherent strength of character when he attends Trinity College in the fall.
The Charles A. Frank III, ’59 Award, established in his honor by the Board of Trustees and Headmaster in 2007, recognizes in its pure form philanthropy, the love of mankind. Exemplified best in service to others, this spirit, cultivated in all students at The Hill, encourages them to give back to others and inspires them to do more for school, community and country | Michael Vanelli
An insightful person said “What really matters is not what we bought, but what we built; not what we got, but what we shared … and not our success, but our significance.” As all our graduates today can attest, life is challenging for Hill students; during the school year, it can be difficult to find time for oneself, never mind for others; especially if those “others” are not friends or family. So finding time during the year to give to others, to make a positive impact in the local community demonstrates a commitment beyond just time and effort, but one of determination and devotion. The Latin phrase: non sibi sed aliis conveys it best: not for self, but for others. Whether it is Saturdays at the Boys and Girls Clubs, overseeing a Blood Drive, as the student representative on the Hobart’s Run Council, his behind-the-scenes efforts on the Student Philanthropy Council, or right here on campus with SGA, Michael Vanelli has stepped up to support his community - our community - in a proactive, sincere, and impactful manner these last four years. His efforts are the embodiment of the Charles A. Frank III ’59 Award.
The Archibald R. Montgomery Award, presented by the Class of 1973, to that Sixth Former who has demonstrated the greatest friendship and personal concern for fellow students | Priyanka Dondeti
Some people have the innate ability to make friends easily and make people feel good. As a four-year student, Priyanka has been an ear to listen, arms to hug, and a smile that can make any day a little brighter. Drawn to service in student government, as a captain of the crew and soccer teams, Co-President of GUTS, a leader of the Student Philanthropy Council, and a prefect in her dorm, her legacy is one of commitment and dedication to all of her charges. She has been brave and outspoken but most of all she has made Hill her home and has done whatever she could to make it a better place for others.
The Prize for Unswerving Loyalty and Outstanding Integrity in the Fulfillment of School Responsibilities in memory of Roswell Miller, III of The Hill School Class of 1940 | Max Moore
Aristotle said, “Men acquire a particular quality by constantly acting in a particular way.” Max wholly embraces the Aristotelian virtues of courage, kindness, generosity, and friendship. His classmates recognized his loyalty and integrity since the beginning of his Hill career when they elected him to Student Government in his third form year. Max’s service to The Hill School began there, and his contributions continued steadily throughout his Hill career, most recently culminating in his courageous alterations to the SGA Charter, creating a co-presidential model. His unswerving loyalty and outstanding integrity are evidenced in all he does; whether leading the SGA as Vice President, captaining the water polo and lacrosse teams, planning Pottstown Cares events, heading the dorm as prefect both his fifth and sixth form years – his contributions are steady, reliable, and predictable.
The Prize presented for the Phi Beta Kappa Association of the Delaware Valley to that student who excels scholastically and who possesses inherent character and integrity. It is given not only in recognition of these qualities and attainments, but as an incentive to good scholarship at the level of higher education | Paige Dendunnen
Fierce, demanding, and not willing to settle for anything short of excellence doesn’t just describe this young woman as a coxswain and co-captain of the Hill Crew team, but also as a true scholar. While her studies are occasionally interrupted by crew, spending time with friends, perfecting, and an occasional Netflix binge, Paige can be found reading, writing, and pondering any number of courses across our entire curricula, from History Seminar to Humanities, Calculus to Biology, French to Religious Studies. Her curious and probing mind has proven an asset not only for her, but also for those who shared a class and studied with her over these past four years. No doubt, she will bring that true scholarship and love of learning with her just a few miles down the road to the University of Pennsylvania.
The Prize presented by The Aurelian Honor Society of Yale University for Character, Leadership, and Scholarship | Joyce Pu
The Hill’s longstanding motto, “Whatsoever things are true,” established shortly after our founding in 1851, seems to have been a guiding principle for Joyce Pu. Like the principles referenced in that verse from Philippians, the book "Making Ethical Decisions" sets forth six pillars of character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Joyce Pu embodies each one of these virtues. Whether in her role as scholar, musician, theater participant, or captain of the girls’ squash team, Joyce brings an unequalled passion. With a twinkle in her eye she engages intellectual curiosity, practical hard work, and a great sense of humor to each creative task she sets herself to complete. She is kind, thoughtful, a friend to all, and an authentic divergent thinker. Next year she will feel right at home at Northwestern University which astonishingly shares both The Hill’s founding year and motto.
The Marion D. Patterson, Jr. Memorial Prize for Unswerving Loyalty and Outstanding Integrity in the Fulfillment of School Responsibilities | Joel Crooks
Tom Watson said “Golf is a game of ego, but it is also a game of integrity: the most important thing is you do what is right when no one is looking.” Whether on the golf course, as a prefect, or a two-year Head of Tour, much of what Joel Crooks has done is not seen by many, but for those who are the lucky beneficiaries of his time and dedication, he has made all the difference. His kindness, his drive and his love for his friends, family, and Hill have spurred him to take on all of the challenges that have come his way. In the end, Cornell will get a young man who is not afraid to do what is right while being a great friend to all.
The Wilbur C. Riley Memorial Award, given to that young man who demonstrates outstanding Leadership and high Sportsmanship in competitive athletics and; AND The award presented by the Alumni for the Best General Record in the Sixth Form | Bennett Booth-Genthe
Whether in the classroom, in the dorm, or on the track, Bennett’s success has been due, in large part, to his persistence. His dedication and capacity for self-reflection have set an example for all those around him. When he accomplishes something, he allows himself to celebrate, but then immediately sets a new goal. If he falters, he assesses the situation carefully and makes the necessary adjustments. The past four years have been a journey of introspection and perseverance, and it’s been a journey that has led Bennett to achieve great things, while also solidifying his leadership role at Hill. Bennett’s tenacity and commitment to personal excellence will no doubt lead him to great success as his pursues his academic and athletic goals at the University of Connecticut.
Head of Form | TianTian Fang
French philosopher, Rene Descartes, is perhaps best known for his phrase, I think, therefore I am. “It is not enough to have a good mind,” Descartes also said, “the important thing is to use it well.” It would seem that Tiantian Fang has taken these words to heart. Tiantian possesses an intellect of the highest order, and by every measure, she has shown us that she knows how to use it well. The quality of her work has been exemplary in all areas, from her academic classes – achieving a weighted GPA of 5.03 this year - to her award-winning design of an internet-based medical screening system, to her role as the Editor of both this year’s Dial and Record. We are simultaneously proud of, and humbled by Tiantian’s accomplishments. Her sharp mind, tenacity, and gentle heart will serve her well as she continues her studies next fall at Stanford University.
The Nicolai H. Hiller, Jr. Memorial Prize awarded annually to that member of the School who best demonstrates the Spirit of Exemplary Effort and Loyal Service to Fellow Students and the School | Amelia Sniffin
As the daughter of a career Army Chaplain, Amelia Sniffin attended nine different schools as a young person – following her family from one base to another throughout the world. That all changed three years ago when she was awarded Hill’s first Wallach Family Military Scholarship. Amelia was finally able to make up her own mind where she would move next, and our community has benefitted greatly from her decision. As a two-year prefect and head prefect this year, Amelia has led with a gentle, non-judgmental spirit, while unleashing a wicked sense of humor that keeps us guessing what she will bring to the table next. The answer will surely take on a new dimension in the fall when Amelia heads to Wheaton College in Illinois to expand her education, play basketball, and to, once again, leave an impact on those around her.
The Headmaster’s Prize for Exemplary Effort and Sterling Contribution to The Life and Work of the School is given in memory of James D. Andrew, of The Hill School Class of 1922, and Virginia Andrew and family | Euan Forrest
Ille Lyceum Residum Familiae For you non-Classics scholars, that means “The Family Boarding School” in Latin. That phrase means a great deal to many of us here today, but perhaps carries special meaning for this youngest of three brothers to walk across this stage. Following in their footsteps as a dear friend to classmates, a prefect, a championship soccer captain, and a Patriot-League bound Hill graduate is praise enough; to do so while raising the bar in each of those areas student life is laudable. He was consistently in the very top tier of students in his class academically over his four years at Hill, while carrying a most-challenging curricula en route to early Cum Laude election in September. And of course he was dominant on the soccer pitch where he earned All-MAPL, All-Area, and All-America honors while leading his Hill side to league and state titles. Sought after by many top universities and soccer programs, Euan undoubtedly will continue to soar with the Lehigh University Hawks in both the classroom and on the pitch in the years to come.
