8th Grade 2020 Tributes

Nico Allison

Nico Allison

Over the past three years, you have grown as a student, friend, and creator. A silly sense of humor simmers beneath the surface, while you tackle new challenges and responsibilities. It serves you well and helps you create amazing things, from intricate robots to elaborate roulades.
Ms. Jennie Kies

Gabri Arocha

Gabri Arocha

You bring a smile, at times a mischievous one, and a let’s do it attitude to all that you do. Soft spoken, you are a supportive friend. You claim to have a lot of energy balled up inside of you, and that’s OK, because you need that energy on the soccer field where your prowess truly shines!
Mrs. Peggy Butler

Cara Babbs

Cara Babbs

Cara, you have a unique understanding of the world that comes from having an old soul; you are a fun, fearless, and compassionate leader who is always willing to take on the toughest challenges. Cara, we are so proud of you and look forward to watching you grow even more!
Mrs. Erin Carlson

Kam Barthels

Kam Barthels

You are a builder and a maker. Over the past three years, you have shown everyone that you are a responsible and kind young man. In the theater, you have been skillful as a carpenter and an all-around ‘go to’ guy. I have faith you will “construct” a marvelous high school experience.
Mr. Steve Scherer

Will Beasley

Will Beasley

For two years, I have watched you fly through the halls of CA like you fly down the Colorado slopes, with energy, humor, and passion. Ever friendly, polite, and dedicated to giving your best, the Middle School and my English classroom will be just a little less bright without you in them.
Mrs. Liz McIlravy

Hayden Berg

Hayden Berg

In addition to being a three-sport athlete, you are a distinctly creative writer and impressive cartoonist. Whether you are serving aces, draining three-point baskets, or basking in the sun like a mud-caked lizard on Interim, you provide a palpable spark of joy and energy.
Ms. Elizabeth Drazdowski

Jason Bratis

Jason Bratis

Honest and true, you are a consummate gentleman. Always thoughtful of others above yourself, you shine on stage, on the basketball court, and the robotics team. With a smile to brighten any room, and an energy to fill it, you strive to do your very best in every challenge you take on.
Mr. James Meehan

Lucas Brown

Lucas Brown

Your contagious smile and cheery “good morning” always made my day in advisory. Your quirky sense of humor and adventurous spirit make you a friend to all. When it comes to solving problems (or coding robots), your creativity emerges, tweaking your work to magnificence.
Ms. Kathleen Kirkman

Cayden Brunner

Cayden Brunner

You are truly a fisherman; you’re patient, resilient, and energetic. You are a keen observer and use your judgment well. When it’s time to be energetic, you are front and center in the class or while playing an instrument. Your experience in the water translates seamlessly onto land.
Ms. Rebecca Silva

Josh Bub

Josh Bub

Your strength of character shows up in myriad ways, whether leading a jam session on your guitar in Zoom advisory, hitting the gym, or leading your conference. You are confident enough to share your honest opinion, while also maintaining a sense of eternal optimism unique to you.
Ms. Kathleen Kirkman

Noah Bub

Noah Bub

A modern-day Tom Sawyer, you are always out exploring with a polite nature and a large smile. From summer camps, to photography, to travels with family, your perspectives deepen. You are athletic, humorous, and wildly creative. Now, it’s time to go explore the Upper School.
Mr. Matt Olmstead

Georgia Burstein

Georgia Burstein

Lover of llama hats and writer of llama songs; when you enjoy something, it shows! Whether it’s being involved in Student Council, Leadership Team, finding a great read, theater, or enjoying your hockey happy place, your smile reminds us all to enjoy and embrace opportunity.
Mrs. Renee Medina

Chloe Chao

Chloe Chao

Perhaps being introduced to exotic foods made you accepting of change and growth. In the Middle School, you showed bravery, creativity, and pushed yourself in pursuits like the play and Future City. Most importantly, you’ve always been a kind, caring person; don’t ever lose that.
Mr. Matt Olmstead

Hero Clinemills

Hero Clinemills

Never giving less than your best in everything you do, you are a social justice warrior, martial arts teacher, singer, and you were incredible as The Major General in the musical. With your thoughtful, kind approach to everything, you are a true friend to all and an awesome big sister.
Mr. James Meehan

Ellen Clowes

Ellen Clowes

As a photographer, your innovative style captivates audiences. As a captain, your supportive leadership unites teams. As a classmate, your limitless kindness cultivates inclusivity. As Ellen, you have a profoundly positive impact on everyone you meet, everywhere you are.
Ms. Elizabeth Drazdowski

Abby Colodny

Abby Colodny

Your sharp intellect and award-winning gifts as a writer made you shine in the classroom. Our community benefited from your quick wit and steadfast friendship, and our stages shone brighter with your vivid characters and angelic voice. Without question, you’ve already made your mark.
Mr. Maclain Looper

Garrett Davidson

Garrett Davidson

Like a superhero in disguise, a fiery competitor lies beneath your kind, polite, and conscientious exterior. Your ability to find purpose in the process is remarkable, as is your desire to be better than your best. Next year, while others might need time to warm up, you’ll be off to the races.
Ms. Elizabeth Drazdowski

Miles Evans

Miles Evans

Fisherman, photographer, and athlete by nature, you are most at home on the court or in the river. However, with hard work and resolve, the classroom, your second home, has revealed a strong student, athlete, and friend, who makes anywhere you choose to be, a better place.
Ms. Liz Estacio

Daniel Farmer

Daniel Farmer

Your alter egos “Li’l Dan Man” and “High Council”—to name only two—accomplished a great deal over three years. On the basketball court you are silky smooth; in the classroom you are a wonderful thinker. Embrace your humor, push yourself, and be confident; you will be missed.
Mr. Matt Olmstead

Carson Flottman

Carson Flottman

In the past three years, you’ve matured as a student and athlete while supporting peers and teammates. Your thoughtful presence in class is balanced by your energy and enthusiasm on the court, and your strengths in both areas were illustrated by your engaging levitation photograph.
Ms. Jennie Kies

Cameron Fogel

Cameron Fogel

From the reserved Sixth Grader that wandered into the Middle School three years ago, you have blossomed into a leader in the classroom, a seasoned veteran of the musical stage, and a fierce competitor on the soccer pitch. To say you’re “coming into your own” is an understatement.
Mr. Maclain Looper

Caroline Gaghen

Caroline Gaghen

A true leader makes those around them better, which is exactly what you do. From convincing friends to join Math Club, to experimenting with different angles behind the camera, to running laps around the Middle School, your intelligence, creativity, and caring nature are always evident.
Ms. Kathy Zolla

Estella Geller

Estella Geller

On a surfboard and in the classroom, you effortlessly find a balance between play and work. A loyal friend, you stand up for others and offer a shoulder to lean on. With your contagious smile and idealist attitude, your contributions to our Middle School community will be missed.
Ms. Stashia Taylor

Phillip Gershovich

Phillip Gershovich

Like a duck, you glide effortlessly across the water, but beneath the surface, your legs never stop. In class, you are a quiet presence, offering thoughtful insights and support to your peers. Outside of class, you tear up the soccer pitch, fly down the mountain, and delight with instruments.
Mrs. Liz McIlravy

Walker Hughes

Walker Hughes

Athletic, observant, and articulate: these are your most salient characteristics. You paint pictures on the minds of readers with your photograph-like descriptions, mesmerize opponents on the soccer field with the poetry of your feet, and fuel connections with friends with your warmth.
Mr. Forbes Cone

Nic Jeffries

Nic Jeffries

The youngest of four, you’ve always looked up to your siblings, but you should know your peers look up to you, too. Without trying to impress, you’ve added value to your classes, especially in science, with your keen curiosity, and in athletics, with your excellent skill. “Hook ‘em Horns!”
Mrs. Erin Galvin

Clayton Johnson

Clayton Johnson

Loyal, determined, and principled: you are an embodiment of these traits. Whether throwing pitches on the baseball field, tearing it up on the tennis court, hunting with your family, or analyzing and investigating in the classroom, no obstacle is a match for your resolve.
Mr. Forbes Cone

Grant Kenney

Grant Kenney

One might assume someone so calm and collected wouldn’t prefer the spotlight. But one would clearly be wrong. Accomplished cellist, seasoned star of the CA stage, and a sword-wielding black belt in Taekwondo, you have made a habit out of making the unexpected, expected.
Mr. Maclain Looper

Abe Kirkpatrick

Abe Kirkpatrick

The world is your playground! You are in your element exploring the world of ideas like liberal democracy and paranoid criticism, and in the world of athletics, from soccer to taking lead up the rock wall. Your humor and loyalty make you a compelling leader and a great friend.
Mrs. Sara Monterroso

Nora Knight

Nora Knight

Aerial dance performer, Children’s Chorale singer, stage actress…there’s no end to your artistry, and we thank you for sharing your talents with both us and the world! You are also a voracious reader, a dedicated student, and a compassionate, humorous, and loyal friend to all.
Mrs. Erin Galvin

Helaina Korneffel

Helaina Korneffel

You wrote, “drawing is mess-ups, dots, and scribbles” because you know that only by experiencing all parts of life can a person thrive. Directly connected is your passion for space, because within that abyss shine possibilities to change the world, as you most certainly will.
Mrs. Liz McIlravy

Reagan Lane

Reagan Lane

You have cultivated a uniquely intense sense of focus: on writing richly imagined fantasy fiction, elegantly finessing your violin skills, and engaging seriously with your academics. May you continue to be guided by your quiet thoughtfulness, your integrity, and your kindness.
Ms. Allie Bronston

Jessica Lapidus

Jessica Lapidus

You are all about commitment. Whether it’s ice cream, family, skiing, friends, classes, or your tireless efforts to be a better person. Continue on that line you’ve started: laughing at life’s unsuspecting gifts, listening intently, and speaking softly, as you boldly face what lies ahead.
Mr. Eric Augustin

Avia Lauchli

Avia Lauchli

Just as you “bury the blade” in a regatta and brace for any condition, you immerse yourself into each challenge you encounter. Able to visualize solutions in two or three dimensions, beloved by your family, friends, and many pets, you will achieve everything you set your mind to.
Ms. Stashia Taylor

Sydney Leach

Sydney Leach

It is rare and inspiring to encounter a Middle School student as intellectually curious and principled as you are. As powerful a force on the stage as you are a committed social justice advocate and passionate reader, it has been a true delight to teach and learn from you.
Ms. Allie Bronston

Colin Love

Colin Love

The first day of Spanish class you introduced yourself as El Famoso Colin. Unlike the famous people we see on TV, in movies, and on social media, you are known for positive attributes like your kindness, inclusivity, and cheerfulness. We will most certainly miss your star quality.
Ms. Rebecca Silva

Zoe Martin

Zoe Martin

You are a force of nature. When you have set your mind to accomplish a goal, or score one, there is little that will get in your way. You carry this same attitude when standing up for others. I have no doubt, Zoe, that you will fight for what’s right, conquering all challenges as you go.
Ms. Liz Estacio

Eliott Mault

Eliott Mault

Scholar, entrepreneur, loyal friend, and caring brother are all roles you take on with the deep understanding of a leader. A humanitarian, you raised funds through your business to supply VR headsets to Children’s Hospital. You have won us over with your amiability and graciousness!
Mrs. Sue Counterman

Alex May

Alex May

Often confused and conflated with Skylar, you deal with “expectations” more than others. Yet you are not defined by others’ expectations, but by your own. You paved a path uniquely Alex’s. Continue your journey with the Alex sense of humor and intensity. And, have great expectations.
Mr. Eric Augustin

Skylar May

Skylar May

You are compassionate and kind and never steer clear of a goal that seems unreachable. You are a supportive sibling and a strong student. Your passion for volleyball, basketball, and lacrosse have fueled your success in sports, and you have been called one of the best to play at CA.
Mr. Steve Scherer

Gerry McManus

Gerry McManus

Gerry, if you were a cake, the main ingredient would be ‘hilarious,’ with ‘analytical’ frosting, and topped with ‘subtlety’ sprinkles. The recipe would be generously shared with classmates, climbing, and ultimate Frisbee teammates, plus the Robotics and Math Clubs, for all to enjoy!
Mr. Forbes Cone

Domonique Megginson

Domonique Megginson

As our SC president, you led with your voice and your presence. You advocate for those who are less heard and bring action to create awareness, bringing the first Black History Month door decorations and presenting on issues of inclusivity. You are resilient, strong, and committed!
Mr. Thanh Luong

Estella Miller

Estella Miller

With grace and purpose, you have charted your course through CA, regaling us with your gift of music on the violin and tenacity in the classroom and on the soccer field. Caring and deeply loyal to friends, your family, and pet, Haley, your quiet leadership style is understated and admirable.
Mrs. Sue Counterman

Alex Miramontes

Alex Miramontes

Behind your quiet personality, we see an incredibly kind, thoughtful young man and a wonderful friend. A hard-working student, you always work tirelessly in class, on the soccer field, and on the b-ball court. We will miss your quiet leadership in the Middle School and are proud of you!
Mrs. Erin Carlson

Lila Mix

Lila Mix

Here are a few words that describe your awesomeness: humble, kind, and diligent. You go beyond the expected and are always insightful. You are a world traveler, loyal friend, exceptional flautist, and a photographer. CA is lucky to have you, Lila, AKA “Larry Stylinson.”
Mrs. Erin Galvin

Hadley Morris

Hadley Morris

Loyal friend, hard worker, and caring sister, you personify these roles. Whether immersing yourself in the Quebec Interim or important four-square games, you bring your signature laughter and poise. You have grown so much in all you do; now take your sparkle to Upper School.
Mrs. Sue Counterman

May Myles

May Myles

Your positive presence in the classroom and colorful doodles in your notebook convey your creative perspective. Always ready for new experiences, whether camping with family, skiing with friends, or on a road trip, you pay attention to smallest of details and keep an open mind.
Ms. Stashia Taylor

Graham Neely

Graham Neely

You already grasp what is most important: the world around you and the people within it. Without a hint of selfishness, you embrace all you are dealt and reorganize it into a solid foundation. Wherever life takes you, others will always want to be a part of what you build.
Mr. Liston Hills

Kate Nelligan

Kate Nelligan

In the last three years, you have grown into a strong, independent force to be reckoned with. You always strive for your best, whether that was on or off the field. You define what it means to get back up after falling down and pressing on. These skills will serve you greatly as you continue!
Ms. Jessica Campbell

Trevor Nordstrom

Trevor Nordstrom

Who is the man behind the hat and sunglasses? An aficionado of baseball, the guy who practices his batting swing while waiting for class to start, an honest person whose self-reflections are spot on, a writer of an astute civics class rap? Trevor, you aspire to greatness and inspire greatness.
Mrs. Renee Medina

Odicei Okra

Odicei Okra

With a quiet fierceness you continue on, even when faced with a daunting task. Odicei, you live your life, pushing yourself to make each minute count, never forgetting what is truly important and seeing the true value in a day well spent. We are all behind you, ready to watch you soar.
Ms. Liz Estacio

Abisai Olivas-Holguin

Abisai Olivas-Holguin

Apparently, it is possible to be both quiet and witty, humble and accomplished, responsible and fun. Your family, to which you are deeply committed, has left a powerful legacy in our community, but know that you have also had a beautiful impact that is completely your own.
Ms. Allie Bronston

Maddy Olmstead

Maddy Olmstead

For three years, you have graced our Middle School with your friendliness, humor, and energy. You truly have a gift of making those around you feel at ease, safe, and loved. Not a day goes by where you do not show compassion for those around you. Your presence will be missed.
Ms. Jessica Campbell

Caroline Owen

Caroline Owen

Caroline, you are ready! You are ready for new challenges! It was a joy for all and a demonstration of your commitment to see you dance as Clara in the Nutcracker. Everything that you are part of exhibits this same dedication, such as your classes, violin, and passion for reading.
Mrs. Donna Farrell

Maddy Reeves

Maddy Reeves

Curious George has nothing on you. You won't settle for facts but want to know how those facts came to be. With curiosity and joy, you're a dynamo in class and on the field. So, like Curious George, go on adventures, ask tough questions, but do it with your signature attitude and laugh.
Ms. Rebecca Silva

Jason Richardson

Jason Richardson

You treated Middle School like your own playground, delighting in the camaraderie and endless contests. As King of the Court, your goal was for all to experience the joy you do. Through everything, you realized that while life is defined by big moments, it’s determined by little ones.
Mr. Eric Augustin

Leah Robinson

Leah Robinson

A talented dancer maintains grace and poise that belie the hard work behind her art. This requires determination, mental and physical fortitude, talent, and a lot of faith that it will be worth the sacrifice. I have not seen you on stage, but you have shown all these qualities in the classroom.
Mrs. Sara Monterroso

Ford Rollhaus

Ford Rollhaus

You “do what you love” and inspire others. To you, there’s always a way, no matter how impossible the task. You were the Rock and the Constant in our robotics program, taking us to State twice. Your loyalty and commitment to your team and the programs you’re in are inspirational!
Mr. Thanh Luong

Stearman Rubey

Stearman Rubey

Whether you are breaking down lessons in civics for your peers, coding and programing robots, or writing and performing raps on the fly as “Rubeatz,” your talents are endless. While we will miss your performances, we are all eagerly waiting to hear what you will accomplish next.
Ms. Kathy Zolla

Tyler Schulte

Tyler Schulte

Tyler, you have made a huge impression on us during your three years here, and the Upper School is lucky to have you! You are a student who is truly a wonderful mix of so many things. Bright. Hardworking. Perseverant. Joyful. A friend. A leader. An actor. We will miss you!
Mrs. Donna Farrell

Carter Scott

Carter Scott

Carter, I will always remember your quick wit and calm presence from both our class and Interim. You are a devoted and kind family member. We are excited to see the challenges you embrace and the growth you make in your journey ahead. You are prepared and will flourish!
Mrs. Donna Farrell

Avery Siegler

Avery Siegler

You are like the walking smiley emoji. The joyful and kind presence you bring to our community is something that cannot be replicated. You have given more than you have taken, and your empathy for others is something that can never be replicated, but always admired.
Ms. Jessica Campbell

Taylor Slutzky

Taylor Slutzky

You have tremendous capacity and achieve more than you acknowledge. In photography you exceed expectations, and you learned to quite deftly use a hammer in tech theater! You have blossomed into a kind, compassionate person. I have faith you will be an impressive teacher.
Mr. Steve Scherer

Annie Smith

Annie Smith

Photographs offer a hint: black, frosting lipstick in Spanish class, a towering, river rat hairdo on Interim, and fluorescent stick figure cohorts on your Zoom profile. You understand responsibility but balance it with an infectious passion for friends, animals, skiing, the world, and fun.
Mr. Liston Hills

Fraser Smith

Fraser Smith

You seek knowledge anywhere you can find it, whether it be in baseball or hockey, Spanish or Chinese. You don’t hesitate to embrace new and challenging opportunities like joining Leadership Team and facilitating activities for Sixth Graders. No adventure is too big for you!
Mr. Thanh Luong

Willy Stettner

Willy Stettner

Driven by passion, you shun all that is ostentatious. Orange and blue-rimmed eyeglasses, the rapid disappearance of a knee brace, occasional fly-fishing apparel, and a refusal to abandon difficult concepts in civics class are the provided, modest clues to what matters most to you.
Mr. Liston Hills

Shea Stone

Shea Stone

You are the epitome of a leader and the embodiment of kindness. A natural on Leadership Team, you guide others with your calming presence, impeccable work ethic, and charismatic smile. With genuine compassion and determination to succeed, you will tackle any challenge you face.
Ms. Kathy Zolla

Violet Tetzeli

Violet Tetzeli

Violet, you remind me of a glowing butterfly whose magically beautiful colors have become even more vibrant in just three short years. You have a creative and authentic spirit, and you work hard to stay true to yourself and in what you believe. Keep up this courageous work!
Mrs. Erin Carlson

Anabelle Twite

Anabelle Twite

You lead with heart and throw your whole self into endeavors that are meaningful to you. Whether playing the cello, leading the Future City team, or performing, you shine. Your focus and resolve are fierce, yet balanced beautifully with joy and spontaneous bouts of singing.
Ms. Kathleen Kirkman

Paige Vahey

Paige Vahey

Wise big sister and never afraid of a challenge, you’ve employed grit and determination in all of your goals. Backpacking, playing piano, cooking, performing on stage, creating art, and playing volleyball, there is nothing to hold you back from adding many more strings to your bow.
Mr. James Meehan

Wendy Warner

Wendy Warner

Cristiano Ronaldo said, “talent without working hard is nothing,” and his words perfectly mirror your virtues. Undoubtedly talented, whether in the classroom, on the soccer field, or as a loyal friend, what truly impresses is the way you refuse complacency and always give 100%.
Mrs. Liz McIlravy

Hudson Watters

Hudson Watters

In the classroom and on the lacrosse field, you approach every task as an opportunity to do your best and keep improving. But while your talents and work ethic are admirable, it is your humor and compassion, your integrity and values, grounded in love of family and friends that stand out.
Mrs. Sara Monterroso

Jack West

Jack West

A master of strategy, your talents span from athletics to intellect. You bring your astute mind to the game, reading the field like a surgeon, competing at the highest levels. Likewise, you add a competitive and playful spark to the classroom, infusing your work with sharp wit and insight.
Mrs. Sara Monterroso

Alaina Wharton

Alaina Wharton

From songs about puffins to chicken-kwondo, your creativity and confidence inspire others. Whether singing in chorale, supporting your group on the backpacking trip, or sharing your thoughts in writing, you set high expectations for yourself and meet them with grace and poise.
Ms. Jennie Kies

Ezra Wolkon

Ezra Wolkon

You are the person who knows how to live in the music and be one with it. You have an amazing ability that allows you to stop and be present in all things you experience. Whether it’s skiing down mountains, playing just about any instrument, or being a friend—you thrive.
Mrs. Renee Medina

Eleanor Wynne

Eleanor Wynne

You are a person of many talents. In Sixth Grade you performed as a ventriloquist in the talent show. In Seventh Grade we bid you adieu as you headed to France. In Eighth Grade you came back to CA, and without missing a beat, you rejoined friends and studied French in the Upper School.
Mrs. Peggy Butler

Jessica Zinn

Jessica Zinn

You are a positive force: designed an Apple pencil cap, project managed Future City, and played the trumpet. You are keen to take on any role, no matter the size. On Student Council and Leadership Team, you made things happen and brought the Zinn name back to the Middle School!
Mrs. Peggy Butler