Kent School Celebrates Class of 2024 in 55th Graduation

Wednesday, June 5, 2024 marked the graduation ceremony for Kent School’s Class of 2024. Students, parents, employees, Trustees and community gathered in the M. V. “Mike” Williams Gymnasium to celebrate the graduating class. The eleven member class was recognized for their embodiment of academic, artistic, athletic and moral excellence.

In her opening remarks, Head of School Nancy Mugele said, “Today is a significant milestone in the life of Kent School. Welcome to our 55th Graduation ceremony. You may have noticed that our graduates have green cords today . . . Emeralds represent true love, eternal commitment, and good fortune. I believe that we all share a deep love and eternal commitment to Kent School. And, of course, we wish Good Fortune to our graduates and their families on this special occasion.”

Devin Wootton, Kent School graduate from the Class of 1998, was the 2024 graduation speaker. Following Kent School, Devin graduated from The Gunson School and then James Madison University. Devin started his career in education immediately after his college graduation. Since then, Mr. Wootton has earned a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, worked as a Language Training teacher and Dean at University Prep in Seattle, Washington. Devin is now the Assistant Head of School and Head of Middle School at Harford Day School.

In his address, Devin Wootton gave the graduates the following advice: “There is beauty in the uncertainty of growing up. As you get older, you may be surprised by what you remember. And, when things seem unattainable, remember all that you accomplished here—I mean, you survived middle school! Remember to focus on process over product. When you’re stuck, switch up your approach. When you’re overwhelmed, find joy in small steps forward.”

At each graduation, several merit awards are presented. The Brian B. Kane, Jr. Award is given to a 7th Grade student who demonstrates determined effort, quality academic work, and displays a helpful, cooperative and responsible attitude. The award is the only Kent School award with a monetary value. Seventh Grade student Eleanor Owings was awarded the 2024 Brian B. Kane, Jr. Award.

The Americanism Award is presented in recognition of the student who demonstrates the qualities of courage, honor, leadership, patriotism, scholarship and service. The Americanism award was presented by the Sgt. Preston Ashley American Legion Post 228 in recognition of this student’s outstanding servant leadership, compassion, and, most importantly, her solid friendship. This award was given to Brinely Leech.

The Joan C. Merriken Award for Excellence in Literature is given in recognition of a student who demonstrates a love of literature, appreciation of and sensitivity to the writer’s art, and ability to use reading as a well-spring for rich self expression. The 2024 recipient, Ella von Voss, has been a finalist in the Kudner Leyon Creative Writing contest several times and was the 2024 winner. She is highly creative and is known for her original ideas.

The Osprey Award is given in recognition of the student who best represents the most positive qualities of moral leadership and excellence to the Kent School Community. This year’s winner exemplified these traits. She is noted for being one of the kindest and most empathetic students in addition to being a strong student athlete and supportive team member. Isabel Gerstmyer was the recipient of the 2023 Osprey Award.

Finally, remarks were shared about each graduate as they were awarded their Certificate of Completion. Members of the Kent School’s Class of 2024 will be attending the following secondary schools: Caravel Academy, The Gunston School, Queen Anne’s County High School, Saints Peter and Paul High School.

Kent School, located on the bank of the Chester River in historic Chestertown, is an independent school serving boys and girls in Preschool through Grade Eight. Kent School prepares students for active citizenship through joyful and rigorous academics, arts, and athletics in an inclusive community that fosters moral excellence. For more information visit www.kentschool.org or email info@kentschool.org.