The King School community gathered under the tent on Wednesday, May 27, for Upper School Prize Day, one of the year's most meaningful traditions. The event brought together students, families, and faculty to recognize outstanding achievement across academics, athletics, the arts, leadership, service, and extracurricular life.

Throughout the ceremony, students were honored for their accomplishments and for the character, dedication, and enthusiasm they bring to the King community each day. Prize Day reflected the spirit of the Upper School, one defined by intellectual curiosity, creativity, perseverance, collaboration, and a deep commitment to supporting one another.

As award recipients crossed the stage to applause from peers and teachers alike, the morning served as a celebration of the many ways students contribute to the vibrant life of the school and embody King’s values both inside and outside the classroom.

Award Winners

The English Prize is presented to a member of the senior class whose commitment to and passion for literary and rhetorical studies has allowed that student to consistently achieve at a high level in English over the course of that student’s high school career. The English Prize is presented to Kyleigh Luther ’26.

The Dater Prize for Improvement in English is presented to a senior and was established by Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Dater in memory of their daughter, Julia Lee Dater, an honors graduate of the class of 1956. The Julia Lee Dater Prize is presented to Max Moschini ’26.

The American Literature Prize is presented to a member of the junior class in recognition of ongoing intellectual curiosity and dedication to the study of American literature. The American Literature Prize is awarded to two students this year, Mia Jakubowsky ’27 and Nick Marti ’27.

The Philosophy Prize is awarded to a senior who shows true passion for philosophy, combined with character and thoughtfulness. The Philosophy Prize is presented to Ben Mazzullo ’26.

The Economics Prize is presented to the student who has an outstanding record in the study of economics and who has the potential to study economics at the college level successfully. The Economics Prize is awarded to Owen McGreevey ’26.

The History Prize is awarded to a member of the senior class in recognition of general excellence in the study of history. The History Prize is presented to Sophie Fishkin ’26.

The American History Prize is awarded to a member of the junior class in recognition of excellence in the study of the American past. The American History Prize is presented to Marilyn Sommerville ’27 and Ty Srihari ’27.

The Future Global Leader Award goes to a junior who has consistently demonstrated academic leadership and achievement with a particular focus on global issues and the ability to address innovative problems with global impact. This year’s Future Global Leader Award is awarded to Lanie Ratner ’27.

The Rensselaer Medal is presented to a member of the junior class who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in mathematics and science and has the potential for a successful career in a science or technology-related field. The Rensselaer Medal is awarded to Marilyn Sommerville ’27.

Every year, King students participate in the Fairfield County Mathematics League competition. This year, the top scorer for the school is Nick Marti ’27.

The Mary Horne Memorial Prize in Mathematics is awarded to the student who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in the study of upper school mathematics. The Mary Horne Memorial Prize is presented to Leon Wang ’26.

The Statistics Prize is awarded to a student who demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of statistical concepts and, with a consistent effort, has produced outstanding work in AP Statistics. The Statistics Prize is awarded to Leon Wang ’26.

The Math Prize is given to a senior who, through their determination, has achieved at a high level and has earned the respect of the Math Faculty. The Math Prize is given to Tal Aluf Medina ’26 and Amy Powell ’26.

The Computer Science Prize is awarded to a student whose hard work in coding, creativity, and general excellence has allowed them to demonstrate outstanding potential in this field. The Computer Science Prize is awarded to Morgan Gaswirth ’27.

The Excellence in STEM Prize is awarded to a student who has demonstrated: a passion for STEM, excellence in STEM coursework, and talent for applying interdisciplinary knowledge to address real-world challenges. The Excellence in STEM Prize goes to Cooper Roth ’27.

The French Language Prize is given to the student who demonstrates excellent verbal and written skills in the French Language and an outstanding mastery of French grammar and vocabulary. The French Language Prize recipient is Cristina Saez de Ibarra ’27.

The Spanish Language Prize is given to the student who demonstrates excellent verbal and written skills in the Spanish Language and an outstanding mastery of Spanish grammar and vocabulary. The Spanish Language Prize is awarded to Maddie Godwin ’26.

The Chinese Prize is presented in recognition of high scholastic achievement in the study of Mandarin Chinese. The Chinese Prize recipient is Sowa Laryea-Adjei ’26.

The Instrumental Music Award is given to a student who has enriched the King Community through a passion for performance in a variety of musical settings. The Instrumental Music Award goes to Enrique Arango ’28.

The King Community Musician Award is given to a student who has demonstrated not only a passion for performing in a variety of settings, but also a passion for sharing musical knowledge with younger students in the King and larger Stamford community. The Community Musician Award is presented to Sienna Barlow ’26.

The Vocal Arts Award is presented to a student who consistently brings music to life with authenticity and depth. Their passion and dedication make them a standout in the Vocal Arts program. This year's award is presented to Steven Blanco ’26.

The Musical Theater Award is given to a student who, through talent and dedication, has achieved excellence in musical theater performance. The Musical Theater Award is presented to Hathaway Liparidis ’26.

The Choral Award is given to a student who has shown excellence in choral singing. The Choral Award is presented to Teagan Robinson ’27.

The Boo Forster Drama Award is given in memory of Elizabeth Chapman Forster, former drama teacher at King. Boo was an inspiration to her students and passionate about her work in the theater. The award goes to the student who displays dedication, versatility, and commitment to the King Performing Arts Department. This year, the award is presented to Jimi Kulig ’27.

The Theater Performance Award honors a student whose disciplined commitment to growth has distinguished them as a performer this year. Through consistent focus, curiosity, and a willingness to take risks, they have deepened their own craft. This recognition celebrates their dedication, artistry, and the example they set for our theater community. The Theater Performance Award goes to Alex Burgoyne ’27.

The Bausch and Lomb Award is presented to a member of the junior class who has demonstrated excellence in science. The Bausch and Lomb Award is presented to Lilah Mehta ’27.

The Biology Prize for excellence in the study of biology is awarded to Kleigh Kennedy ’27.

The Chemistry Prize for excellence in the study of chemistry is awarded to Anaiya Shah ’27.

The Physics Prize for excellence in the study of physics is awarded to Dillon Maltese ’26.

The Catalani Memorial Art Prize honors a student who is passionate about the Visual Arts. The Catalani Memorial Art Prize is awarded to Mari Pritchard ’26.

The Art and Design Prize is awarded to a student who embodies the spirit of the program. The Art and Design Prize is awarded to Izzy Rabina ’26.

The Ceramics Prize is awarded to a student who explored every aspect of Ceramics in the curriculum at King, and several techniques outside of it. This year’s Ceramics Prize is awarded to Sienna Barlow ’26.

 

Certificates of Distinction

Global Studies Certificate of Distinction

The Certificate of Distinction in Global Studies is awarded to those students who have successfully completed a rigorous program of study in global studies over the course of their high school career. This year's recipients are: 

• Joaquin-Antonio Arteta ’26
• Tristan Ellis ’26
• Michael Failla ’26
• Ava Gunthel ’26

STEM Distinction

The Certificate of Distinction in STEM is awarded to those students who have fulfilled the requirements that include, in part, rigorous coursework, club activity, and the completion of a capstone project. This year’s recipients are:

• Sowa Laryea-Adjei ’26
• Dillon Maltese ’26
• Bruno Reinhoefer Ribeiro ’26
• Vito Scutari ’26
• Lucia Vivanco ’26
• Leon Wang ’26

Art and Design Certificate of Distinction

The Certificate of Distinction in Art and Design is awarded to those students who have fulfilled the requirements that include, in part, rigorous coursework, club activity, and participation in the Senior Art Show and Colloquium, as well as the submission of an AP Art and Design Portfolio. This year’s recipients are:

• CeCelia Campbell ’26
• Mari Pritchard ’26
• Izzy Rabina ’26
• Kayla Ward ’26

Performing Arts Certificate of Distinction

The Certificate of Distinction in Performing Arts is awarded to students who have successfully completed a rigorous program in the Performing Arts. This includes comprehensive coursework, active participation in multiple productions and community concerts, and the completion of a capstone project. This year’s recipients are:

• Matthew Cesare ’26
• Zuri Giddings ’26
• Hathaway Liparidis ’26

Leadership Studies Certificate of Distinction

The Certificate of Distinction in Leadership Studies is awarded to students who successfully complete a rigorous program of study in leadership theory. In addition, these students have taken on numerous leadership roles, community leadership projects, and completed a capstone project. This year's recipients are:

• Evelyn Kircher ’26
• Gregory Martin ’26
• Saoirse Zucker-Malone ’26

World Language Certificate of Distinction

The Certificate of Distinction in World Language is awarded to students who successfully complete a rigorous program of study in world language studies over the course of their high school career. This year’s recipient is:

• Leon Wang ’26

 

Cum Laude Society

The following students have been elected into the King Chapter of the Cum Laude Society, an organization that recognizes scholastic achievement among high school students:

• Tal Aluf Medina ’26
• Kayla Barta ’26
• Madeline Godwin ’26
• Ryan Jakubowski ’26
• Gillian Lehneis ’26
• Kyleigh Luther ’26
• Dillon Maltese ’26
• Owen McGreevey ’26
• Emily McKee ’26
• Cyrus Noren ’26
• Amy Powell ’26
• Mari Pritchard ’26
• Bruno Reinhoefer Ribeiro ’26
• Vito Scutari ’26
• Lucia Vivanco ’26
• Leon Wang ’26

 

 

Athletic Awards

Five-Season Varsity Athletes: Eddie Danziger '26 - Tennis, Gidon Genger '26 - Baseball, Max Moschini '26 - Golf, Sophia Santomaro '26 - Golf.

The Karen Peterson Outstanding Freshman Female Athlete Award recognizes the strongest female athlete in the freshman class. The Karen Peterson Award is presented to Penelope Prince ’29.

The Daniel Hudson Outstanding Freshman Male Athlete Award recognizes the strongest male athlete in the freshman class. The Daniel Hudson Award is presented to Rowan Martin ’29.

The Viking Athletic Service Award is presented in recognition of outstanding contributions and going above and beyond in support of King Athletics. This year’s Vikings Service Award is presented to Head Athletic Trainer Mike Lasky.

The NEPSAC Player of the Year awards recognize Christina Stuart ’27 and Emily McKee ’26.

The Stamford Old Timers Scholar-Athlete Awards are given annually to one male and one female Stamford resident standout senior athlete at each of the city's high schools. This year’s King recipients are Sam Dulski ’26 and Sophia Santomaro ’26.

The National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete recognition is presented after the fall football season. This year’s recipient is Jackson Andrews ’26.

The Jody Veeder Richards Award is presented to an upper school girl who has demonstrated the highest standard in sportsmanship. The Jody Veeder Richards award is presented to Ella Maldonado ’26.

The Northrop Cup is awarded to the member of the senior class who has made an outstanding impact in athletics because of their ability and because of a high level of sportsmanship. The Northrop Cup is presented to Thomas Bonomo ’26.

The Ware Award recognizes valuable contributions in athletics, high academic achievement, thoughtfulness for others, and a sense of responsibility for the school. The Ware award is presented to Dillon Maltese ’26.

The Outstanding Senior Male Athlete Award recognizes the strongest male athlete in the senior class. The Outstanding Senior Male Athlete Award is presented to Henry Sklar ’26.

The Outstanding Senior Female Athlete Award recognizes the strongest female athlete in the senior class. The Outstanding Senior Female Athlete Award is presented to Emily McKee ’26.

 

 

Class Citizenship Prizes

The Class Citizenship Prizes are given to those students who make an exceptional contribution to the daily life of the King community through their leadership and engagement in course and club work, school initiatives, student life programming, and afternoon activities. Through their spirit and discipline, these students have demonstrated a deep commitment to the King Virtues and have partnered with students and faculty to enrich the life of the school. 

The Grade 9 Class Citizenship Prize is awarded to the following students: Camille Bley ’29, Coco Liu ’29, Jack Griffith ’29, Avery Stowe ’29, and Nate Stolarsky ’29.

The Grade 10 Class Citizenship Prize is awarded to the following students: Jonah Herzberg ’28, Isabella Ryan ’28, CT Thomson ’28, and Michael Toolan ’28.

The Grade 11 Class Citizenship Prize is awarded to the following students: Mia Jakubowsky ’27, Kate Johnson ’27, Lucas Pignotti Phillips ’27, and Christina Stuart ’27.

The Grade 12 Class Citizenship Prize is awarded to the following students: Ryan Jakubowski ’26, Evelyn Kircher ’26, Bruno Reinhoefer Ribeiro ’26, and Lucia Vivanco ’26.

 

Community and Club Awards

The Cathy Mishkin King Cares Award is presented to Upper School students in grades 11 or 12 who, like beloved former teacher Cathy Mishkin, embody the joy of connecting with others and who engage thoughtfully and kindly across many areas of the King community and beyond. The Cathy Mishkin King Cares Award goes to Sophia Carrington ’26, Maddie Godwin ’26, Charlie Schwartz ’26, and Henry Sklar ’26.

The Adam Boaz Community Impact Award is named after a beloved former faculty member, Adam Boaz, and is awarded to a student who demonstrates a commitment and dedication to creating a sense of belonging within the King community. This student exhibits a commitment to issues, focusing on self-reflection, forming allies, and building community, and independently engages in activities and initiatives that focus on ways to harness the power of our similarities and differences to create mutual understanding and joyful connections within the King community. This year’s Adam Boaz Community Impact Award goes to Hathaway Liparidis ’26 and Mahnoor Nomani ’27.

The Ambassador Prize recognizes leaders who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, enthusiasm, and direction. Through their welcoming spirit, engaging tours, and genuine passion for our school, they have left a lasting impression on prospective students and their families. The Ambassador Prize is awarded to Thomas Bonomo ’26 and Evelyn Kircher ’26.

The Model UN Prize is awarded to members who have consistently shown enthusiasm and dedication to the Club and have demonstrated a deep understanding of the global issues and concerns facing the United Nations. The Model UN Prize is presented to Justina Marque ’27.

The Debate Team Prize is awarded to members who have consistently shown enthusiasm for and dedication to the Debate Team and whose debating skills demonstrate excellence in the art of public speaking and argumentation. The Debate Club Prize is presented to Ryan Jakubowski ’26, Steven Blanco ’26, Amy Powell ’26, and Leon Wang ’26.

The Math Team Prize is given to an individual who, through loyalty to the team, faithful participation in its practices, strong involvement, and contributions to the team in competitions, has won the recognition and respect of the team and its coaches. The Math Team Prize is given to Lilah Mehta ’27 and Bruno Reinhoefer Ribeiro ’26.

The Student Council Prize and Ceremonial Gavel are presented to Steven Blanco ’26, the outgoing President of the Student Council. He passes the gavel to next year’s President, Linus Grabowski ’27.

The Nancy Cunningham Nickerson Award is awarded to a senior in recognition of commitment to improving the lives of those facing physical or spiritual challenges and having an abiding concern for others. The Nancy Cunningham Nickerson Award is presented to Sienna Barlow ’26.

The Marc L. Hoffman Award is given to a rising senior who has utilized strengths, along with embracing an effective learning style, to achieve academic excellence. Furthermore, this student has demonstrated honor, integrity, sound judgment, and fair play. The Marc L. Hoffman Award is presented to Christina Stuart ’27.

The Eleanor Christensen Prize is presented to a student who models the attributes of self-awareness, self-advocacy, and commitment to their own development as a learner and has mastered the art of learning well. The Eleanor Christensen Prize is presented to Sophia Carrington ’26.

The Bill Wallace Memorial Prize is presented to a sophomore who best exemplifies the qualities that Bill Wallace displayed in his years at King. These qualities include hard work, a growth mindset, and a commitment to daily, tireless engagement with the discipline, regardless of the immediate outcome. In addition, the student has demonstrated kindness and respect to fellow students and to everyone in the community. The Bill Wallace Memorial Prize goes to CT Thomson ’28.

The Evald B. Olson Prize is awarded to a senior who, throughout the years at King, has combined success in athletics with excellence in the study of mathematics and science. The Evald B. Olson Prize is awarded to Owen McGreevey ’26.

The Gregory Dean Muggeo Memorial Award is awarded to a boy in the graduating class who best exemplifies the qualities Gregory Dean Muggeo displayed in his years at King. These include leadership, devotion, generosity, vitality, and consideration for others. The Gregory Dean Muggeo Award is presented to Henry Sklar ’26.

The Meryl Kann Cup is awarded to a girl in the graduating class whose unselfish spirit, dedication, and versatility have enriched the total life of the School. The Meryl Kann Cup is presented to Hathaway Liparidis ’26.

The Mildred G. Anderson Memorial Prize is awarded to the member of the senior class who has been in the school for a minimum of two years and has shown the greatest overall development both as a student and as a person. The Mildred G. Anderson Prize is awarded to Vito Scutari ’26.

The William Bartram Memorial Prize is awarded to that member of the senior class who has contributed the most to the school in co-curricular activities. The William Bartram Prize is presented to Steven Blanco ’26.

The Michelson Memorial Award is presented to the member of the senior class who has maintained his or her position in their class on the basis of outstanding personal effort. The Michelson Award is presented to Leon Wang ’26.

The Robert Morse Carpenter Memorial Prize is awarded to a member of the senior class for high scholastic achievement as well as for an excellent record as a citizen of the school. The Robert Morse Carpenter Prize is presented to Emily McKee ’26.

The Ann Ayres Herrick Award goes to the senior who, through loyalty, integrity, and friendliness, has contributed most to King’s high standards of character. This award is voted on by the entire Upper School, both faculty and students. The Ann Ayres Herrick Award is awarded to Steven Blanco ’26.

The Upper School Prize goes to a member of the senior class who, through scholastic, athletic, or artistic achievements, leadership, and versatile and positive contributions to the life of the school, has earned the recognition of the faculty. The Upper School Prize is awarded to Steven Blanco ’26.

Faculty Prize goes to a member of the senior class who, through character, intelligence, and thoughtfulness, has won the respect of the faculty. The Faculty Prize is awarded to Amy Powell ’26.

The Alumni Prize goes to the senior who embodies the promise of an adult sense of responsibility and obligation to the community and who, in maturity, intelligence, and altruism, seems best fitted to take a place in the world. The Alumni Prize is awarded to Hathaway Liparidis ’26.