As a steady rain fell over the Blair Academy campus, the community gathered, along with friends, family, alumni and members of the Board of Trustees for a momentous occasion. And if the weather tried to dampen the spirit of the day, it failed—spectacularly. The Class of 2025, resilient as ever, brought the sunshine in their energy, enthusiasm and grace. As they processed proudly through the Arch—umbrellas in hand—their smiles said it all: This was their moment, and nothing—not even a few raindrops—could take it away.

From the very beginning of their senior year, this class was challenged to lean in—into curiosity, connection and the core values that make Blair more than just a school. Back in September, the message was clear: Live your Blair bucket list and embrace the Five Fundamentals. More specifically? Be curious. Suspend judgment. And the Class of 2025 did just that.

Throughout the year, they stepped forward with open hearts and inquisitive minds. They asked thoughtful questions, they listened—really listened—to one another and they sought understanding across lines of difference. Whether in classrooms, dorms, dining halls or on athletic fields, they lived out what it means to build meaningful community.

“If, on the off chance, that all continues to go according to plan…one day we will forget what it’s like to be what we are in this present moment, as individuals,” said Emily Dou ’25, class speaker and recipient of the George P. Jenkins ’32 Prize as valedictorian of the class. “We collectively hurdle toward some sort of a conclusion. But despite that, through it all, it is empathy that tied us through the millenniums past.” 

The entire Blair community extends heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2025!

FACULTY AWARDS

John C. & Eve S. Bogle Teaching Prize: Math department chair Danyelle Doldoorian

Riether Residential Life Award: Assistant Dean of Admission Chase Palanca ’15

Lillian & Samuel Tedlow Teaching Prize: Director of Athletics Paul Clavel ’88

Headmaster’s Faculty Prize: Dean of Students Andee Ryerson

STUDENT AWARDS

Headmaster’s Prize: Genesis Medina & Minh Anh Vo

Blair Academy Trophy: Libby Russell & William Antunes

George P. Jenkins ’32 Prize: Emily Dou

Appointments to the United States Service Academies: Joe Alnwick, Jack Armbruster, Kaleb Nelson, Samantha Pappas & Libby Russell