Newark Academy Announces 2021 Ad Lumen Awards

Margaret Atwood once wrote, “A word after a word after a word is power.” As a prolific writer and editor, Annika Inampudi wields this power virtuously. She uses words to tell stories that are important to her, to lift the voices of many, particularly women. As Editor-In-Chief of Prisms, Annika has shared her passion for poetry and prose with the Newark Academy community. As author of a collection of short stories, Annika has contributed to the global community of readers and writers, a community that has also recognized her talents with numerous awards. Moreover, across disciplines, from English to mathematics, Annika’s teachers rave about her intellectual independence, curiosity, and divergent thinking. Her contributions to class discussions enrich the learning experience for her peers. A top-rate scholar whose devotion to learning and to writing have distinguished her time at Newark Academy, Annika has demonstrated the highest ideals of our school.

It would be easy to justify Jeffery Keys’ receipt of the Ad Lumen award by simply noting his leadership roles: Captain of the Football team, School Council representative, Peer Leader, and Equity and Inclusion Team member. Yet Jeffery is so much more than the positions he has held. A scholar, bridge-builder, writer, philosopher, and artist, Jeffery gives his all to his pursuits and, in the words of one teacher, he also “exudes kindness.” Notably, he has evidenced a commitment to racial equality and social justice through his engagement in activism and scholarship. Frequently and for many years now, we have asked Jeffery to speak on behalf of his peers and the school — at the Middle School Commencement in 2017, at a recent Alumni of Color breakfast, and at many admissions events—and it’s easy to see why: This affable and engaged young man reflects the highest ideals of Newark Academy.

Mikey Marcus personifies a rare combination of insight and action; he is a person who has both bold ideas and the drive to execute them. In the classroom, his peers and teachers witness these strengths when he is willing to fill silence with an idea that moves the discussion forward. In the wrestling gym, his teammates and opponents recognize his fierce dedication to the sport. During School Council meetings, he’s unafraid to launch big ideas and then work tirelessly to bring them to fruition, finding creative ways to save school traditions despite constraints. At the same time, Mikey is a team player; he genuinely listens to his peers and cares about making Newark Academy a welcoming home for all of them. A powerful and positive voice and a model of community engagement, Mikey’s distinguished scholarship and leadership make him a most deserving recipient of the Ad Lumen award.

Passionate and persuasive, Jordan McCray-Robinson has been instrumental in shifting the culture of Newark Academy to be more inclusive. Her voice has been mobilizing, helping us to put words into action and to become more equitable and just. As a member of the Equity and Inclusion Team and president of the Black Student Union, Jordan has participated in conversations with school leaders, provided input on school policies, and assisted in the creation of the Creating Community 9 curriculum. Jordan has also contributed to the Newark Academy community in other ways. On the track and soccer teams, Jordan’s athleticism has inspired her teammates; as a Peer Leader, she has been a mentor; as a student, she has demonstrated resilience and growth. We are thrilled to call Jordan one of our own and delighted to acknowledge her for living our school’s mission and helping us all to be and do better.

It’s difficult to summarize Pravan Chakravarthy. A wordplay enthusiast and endangered languages historian, he founded the Linguistics Club and has challenged us all with his crossword puzzles. A dedicated runner, he is a three-season varsity athlete known for his dedication and sportsmanship. An accomplished violinist, he plays in a variety of our orchestras and ensembles and has composed his own instrumental works. An insightful student, he wows his teachers and classmates with his dedication to his coursework, breadth of background knowledge, and willingness to help his peers. In short, what distinguishes all of Pravan’s endeavors is his passion for learning, standard of excellence, and generosity of spirit. A student whose interests and talents span the Newark Academy program, Pravan has left his mark on our community in countless ways large and small. He is a most deserving recipient of the Ad Lumen award.