Gould Academy 2024 Commencement Ceremony Honors Outstanding Students

The ceremony commenced with a processional led by Hilary Anderson ’07 on the bagpipes, followed by an invocation by Emily Drummond ’01. Head of School Tao Smith ’90, P’23,’28, welcomed the attendees. Artur Savchii ’24, this year’s valedictorian, delivered an inspiring valedictory address.

“The pleasure of memories from Gould will stay with me forever,” said Artur, who came to Gould from Ukraine. “I will never forget how I tried perhaps all of Maine’s ice creams after running in the woods with Mr. Leff. I will never forget how, although we did win the math state championship, our real victory was figuring out the fastest route to McDonald's and getting there before Fryeburg. I will always remember old D-Block and how every Thursday, Ms. Burns' cookies were the only things holding Davidson together. And this is just a tiny part of what I will remember. I am so grateful to everyone who helped shape [my time at Gould] and everyone who will always be in my memory.”

Samuel Adams ’77, P’18, President of the Gould Academy Board of Trustees, introduced the commencement speaker, Alexa Bey Stark ’07. Stark, an accomplished artist, fashion designer, and co-owner of The Waldoboro Inn, shared her journey and insights with the graduating class.

“The education Gould has provided all of us here not only benefits you graduates but also the many teachers, staff members, families, and community members,” said Alexa. “I chose to go to Gould because the art cottage felt like home. My gut told me it was a place where I could grow, take risks, learn, and be challenged in ways that would shape me for the future. Post-Gould, life won't be exactly like the years you've spent here, but a thread will remain. Years later, you’ll find yourself saying, ‘I know how to face this because [of my time] at Gould. I learned that with creativity, community, and a little humor, you will adapt to the changes you need to make.”

Following Stark’s address, Head of School Tao Smith began the presentation of the following book awards and scholarships.

12 seniors were inducted into the prestigious Cum Laude Society, an honor recognizing scholastic achievement and a commitment to learning. The new members are Artur Savchii, David Šimáne, Polina Panasenko, Hannah Grohman, Allison Nevins, Amelia Wyse, Minyi Chen, Molly Croes, Charlotte Lambert, Hannah Goodbody, Rebecca Mize, and Nyla Scott.

Hannah Margaret Grohman received the English Department Award for her gentle leadership and writing skills. Zachary Johnson received the Scholar Shelf Award for his passion for literature, respect, and gratitude for kindness and humanity.

David Šimáne was honored with the Senior History Award for his excellence in AP Government, and Minyi Chen received the Scholar Shelf Award for her perseverance in the same subject.

Artur Savchii earned the Senior Math Award for his exceptional mathematical abilities. Minyi Chen was again recognized with the Scholar Shelf Award in Math for her dedication to STEM subjects.

In Computer Science, Molly Croes was celebrated for her remarkable advancement in programming.

Artur Savchii also earned the Senior Science Award. Mac Connor received the Scholar Shelf Award in Science for his enthusiastic approach to physics.

Polina Panasenko received the Innovator’s Award for her dedication to exploring new topics, clearing obstacles, and overcoming setbacks. Mary Eggert was the Scholar Shelf recipient for using her time and talents to unite people.

Anders Silitch received the French Book Award for his dedication to mastering French, while Erin MacDonald received the Scholar Shelf Award in French for her commitment to the language.

Allison Nevins was honored with the Mandarin and Spanish Book Awards for her leadership and linguistic skills. Sophia Nichols received the Scholar Shelf Award in Spanish.

Polina Panasenko was recognized with the Japanese Book Award for her dedication to the Japanese language and culture.

Theater and art awards highlighted student creativity and dedication. Allison Chase was recognized for her theatrical talent, while Zoe Bolland received the Art and Art Purchase awards. Allison Chase also received the Art Scholar Shelf award.

Mary Eggert for her contributions to the school's music program. 

Charlotte Lambert and Ellis Slover received the Outstanding Senior Athletes awards for their competitive spirit, leadership by example, and overall athletic competence. Charlotte’s award honors Francis “Hi” Berry, who taught at Gould from 1957 to 1978 and coached the girls’ basketball and softball teams for many years. Ellis’s award honors Joe Roderick, who taught physical education at Gould for 29 years.

Brianna Schnorrbush for outstanding snow sports achievements.

Hannah Grohman for her high standards and authentic character.

Ellis Slover for exceptional service as a Blue Key ambassador.

Erin MacDonald for her project on climate change. The Senior Four Point Scholar Shelf recipients are Sophia Nichols, to acknowledge her EMT certification, and Mary Eggert for publishing a children’s book. 

Mary Eggert for personal courage and creativity.

Polina Panasenko for her commitment to social causes.

Mary Eggert for selfless acts and humanitarianism.

Gavin O’Connell for brightening the lives of classmates.

Stella Fraser for community involvement.

Mac Connor to support his future endeavors.

Gavin O’Connell and Shoki Sakuma for service, leadership, and character.

Molly Croes for the highest standards of scholarship, character, and service.

Charlotte Lambert, chosen by her peers, delivered the Senior Student Address, reflecting on their shared experiences of entering high school during COVID-19.

“The Class of 2024, due to these unfortunate circumstances, had to explore new pathways to connection,” explained Charlotte. “We bonded in unexpected ways, finding common ground on the snow, in the classroom, and on the field. Covid forced us to be more creative with our connections, making it all the more special. I think about how far we’ve come individually and as a class. We came together under strange circumstances, but we leave here today with so much experience, memories, and potential.”

The ceremony concluded with the awarding of diplomas, a benediction by Emily Drummond ’01, and a recessional led by the bagpiper to the upper field, where graduates were greeted by family, friends, and faculty.