Alumni

The Class of 2026 celebrated Commencement with reflections on community, growth, and the bonds that shaped their King experience. Speakers looked back on the challenges and experiences that defined the class while encouraging graduates to embrace what comes next with confidence. Commencement speaker Guilbert Francois KLHT’13 shared lessons from his own journey, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and taking ownership of one's future.

King Athletics is excited to welcome Thomas Newkirk as the next Head Coach of Football. Known for his energy, leadership, and commitment to building a positive team culture, we look forward to Coach Newkirk leading the Vikings football program into its next chapter. We also proudly celebrated our Class of 2026 college-bound athletes, recognizing ten Vikings who will continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Congratulations to these outstanding student-athletes for their dedication, accomplishments, and lasting impact on King Athletics.

In a ceremony at King this week, siblings Jayden Grayson ’25 and Jaxon Grayson ’27 were awarded the American Red Cross National Life Saving Award for their lifesaving response to a dangerous rip current incident at East Beach in Westerly, Rhode Island in 2024. As certified lifeguards, they entered increasingly hazardous surf conditions during hurricane-driven swells, repeatedly rescuing swimmers caught in a worsening emergency. Working for hours, the brothers helped bring multiple individuals safely back to shore, demonstrating extraordinary courage, training, and commitment to public service.

King School is proud to announce that Guilbert Francois, Class of 2013, will serve as this year’s graduation speaker. Currently working in Product Marketing at OpenAI, Guilbert has built an impressive career across leading organizations, including the NBA, Instagram, and Microsoft, where he has helped shape innovative digital products and strategies. A Duke University graduate with a degree in Economics, he has consistently demonstrated adaptability, leadership, and a commitment to connecting people through technology. As an engaged alumnus whose journey reflects King School’s mission, Guilbert brings a powerful perspective on navigating a rapidly changing world, and his experiences are sure to inspire the Class of 2026 as they prepare for their future.

Former Head of School Sue Cesare LH’48, P’78, ’81, GP’12, ’26 was recognized for her decades of leadership and lasting impact on King School during a Women’s History Month assembly for the Upper School. Members of King’s Upper School Student Council and Head of School Carol Maoz spoke of Cesare’s journey from student to head of school and her role as a trailblazer for women in leadership. Cesare’s guiding principles of high academic standards, strong relationships, and character development were also highlighted as foundational to the school's current values.