Head of School Tim Bazemore Delivers His Final Closing Exercises Speech

“The Class of 2014 has the courage to believe, not only in ourselves, but in each other,” said Student Welcome Speaker Stella Noels. “NCCS has been a second home for us. We have learned that is it not the event that matters, but the process of getting there and that an integral part of our school mission is constructing a community where all members feel included."

 

Student Speaker Cal Stewart shared reflections on the school motto, “Fortune Favors the Bold” recounting his own personal Country School journey and sharing stories about some of the risks he took and mistakes he made along the way.

 

“NCCS has been a safe haven that has prepared us to be launched into the world,” he said.

 

Mr. Bazemore congratulated the Class of 2014 for distinguishing itself as “one of the kindest and most unified classes in recent memory.”

 

“Your teachers and the school community could not have been more impressed,” he told the graduates. “You demonstrated an incredible talent for collaboration that will be your legacy. Collaboration is not easy – it requires you to listen, offer ideas, compromise and agree based on a common goal. … Yet you found ways to work together with joy and determination – and notable success.”

 

Stella Noels received the Robert Gamble Award, which is presented to “the student who exemplifies, to the highest measure, the fruit of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

 

Class of 2014 graduate Paloma Blandon received the Paul Johansen Award, which is presented to “the member of the graduating class who stands for the qualities which Paul embodied: care and concern for others, compassion and a sense of community.”

 

Both the Gamble and Johansen awards are named in honor of two courageous students who waged inspiring battles against fatal illnesses while students at Country School.

 

The Class of 2014 will attend the following secondary schools: Berkshire School, Brewster Academy, Brien McMahon High School, Brooks School, Canterbury School, Choate Rosemary Hall, Darien High School, Deerfield Academy, Greens Farms Academy, Greenwich Academy, King School, Middlesex School, Millbrook School, New Canaan High School, Phillips Academy Andover, Pomfret School, St. Luke’s School, Stamford High School, Taft School, Thacher School, Westminster School and Wilton High School.

Click here to view photos from the event.