Collegiate Seniors Attend Final Assembly, Visit With Kindergartners

While photos of their fellow classmates rotated on a screen, the four members who serve as SCA leaders shared thoughts about their time at Collegiate.

Annie Mahoney talked about how much she has loved Collegiate and made special note of the faculty.

“These people manifest joy,” she said.

Of her fellow seniors she said, “I am a proud member of this class and I cannot wait to hear about your accomplishments. I challenge you to take ownership over your own mindset. Be happy. Overwhelmingly so.”

Eliza Goggins remarked that although she was not a star athlete, her time on Collegiate sports teams has been pivotal to her experience.

“Thank you to all my coaches for their encouragement and never giving up on me,” she said.

Shaan Kapadia spoke of how Collegiate was the only school he had ever attended and that he would be forever grateful for his education.

“I learned the importance about being passionate about learning, becoming a responsible citizen of the community and being a good human being,” he said.

Lastly, Zaed Karabatek, who said he was blessed to call Collegiate his home, thanked those who had helped him: Head of School Steve Hickman and his teachers, friends and family.

“I will always cherish my memories I’ve made at Collegiate,” he said. “So thank you all for making me a man.”

Patrick Loach, Head of the Upper School, placed a quick Facetime call to the senior girls lacrosse players, who were on their way to Northern Virginia to play St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School.

After a performance by the Collegiate Chorus of "We’re All in This Together," in honor of the seniors, Mr. Loach told them to relish the rest of their time here.

“Don’t wish away this next week,” he said. “Don’t say, I can’t wait until this is all over. Enjoy every minute of it.”

And as part of the tradition for the seniors’ final assembly, Collegiate Kindergartners — members of the Class of 2031 — serenaded their seniors with "I Am a Promise." The seniors responded by leading "Hail, Collegiate" before connecting with their Cougar buddies to share some special time together over a pizza lunch outside the Hershey Center for the Arts.

The seniors will return to campus next week for a two-day special program on May 20-21, the Honors Assembly on May 22 and graduation on May 24.