In an annual tradition, senior students' King journey culminated with a showcase of creativity, curiosity, and academic achievement during the annual Senior Project Presentations. 

Held in the Upper School gym on May 29, the event marked the conclusion of a month-long period of independent study. During this time, the Class of 2025 stepped away from traditional classes to focus entirely on self-designed projects that reflected their personal interests and goals. 

This year’s projects spanned an array of topics, including improving physical fitness, exploring potential career paths, experimenting with cooking, creating art, and conducting historical research. The presentations offered a compelling glimpse into the diversity of this year's senior class and left no doubt that they’re ready to succeed in the chapter ahead.

As she looks toward majoring in international relations at the University of San Diego, Olivia Mangold took a deep dive into declassified government operations. She discussed how her studies over the past two years in teacher Ian Lear-Nickum’s AP U.S. History and AP Comparative Government and Politics classes inspired her.

“Mr. Lear-Nickum showed us this document from the CIA with bullet points justifying intervening in Cuba during the Cold War. Olivia recalled. “The way they were talking about it so casually stuck out to me. When I got this opportunity, I discovered tons of other operations and special projects.”

Adam Flynn spent the month focusing on improving his physical fitness before reporting to West Point for basic training this summer. To ensure he was prepared to pass the Army’s fitness requirements, he developed a four-day workout routine.

“My first day was 100 push-ups throughout the day, day two was 30 pull-ups in 30 minutes, day three was three 30-minute runs, and day four was weighted rucks with my 20-pound weight vest,” he said.

While the grueling routine was challenging, Adam found the experience substantially improved his fitness, putting him on track to exceed the minimum standard at West Point.

Abigail Kuffel served as an intern in King’s Development Office and found the experience would serve her well in any career track she chooses.

“I did a lot of alumni outreach, where I called parents, alumni grandparents, to let them know about the annual fund and why it's so important to give to the school,” she said. “No matter what career I decide to devote myself to, it's great to improve my communication skills like talking on the phone and becoming a salesperson. Fundraising is at the core of any business.”

As peers, faculty, and family made their rounds through the presentations, one sentiment was clear: these students are ready for what’s next. The Senior Project Presentations affirmed the breadth of the Class of 2025’s interests and the strength of a King education to nurture independence, intellectual curiosity, and purpose.