Newark Academy Graduates the Class of 2021

Newark Academy conferred the degrees of 103 students at the Class of 2021 Commencement Exercises on Sunday, June 13, 2021.

The Class of 2021 boasted 45 International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidates, 21 Cum Laude Society Members and over 13,000 hours of community service since their freshmen year.

“I hope that all of you will become lifelong learners and retain your curiosity,” said Head of School Donald M. Austin. “The faculty and I wish you rewarding lives as thoughtful and compassionate citizens.”

Chairman of the Board of Trustees Samuel W. (Sam) Croll III ’68 told students that in the future they would be most proud of how they handled unexpected problems brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and to always hold onto their joy, be kind and be optimistic.

Director of Equity and Inclusion Gardy Guiteau commended the Class of 2021 for their instrumental part in creating space equity and inclusion discussions at Newark Academy.

“Our diversity as individuals brings great perspective and difference and ways of knowing and being [it], really is what make us amazing, greater, smarter and better humans,” Mr. Guiteau said.

Molly Cantillon was chosen by the Cum Laude Society to deliver the traditional T.C. Abbey Oration, recited each year at Commencement in honor of beloved teacher T.C. “Charlie” Abbey. Cantillon urged her fellow classmates to step out of their comfort zones and connect with strangers in their future endeavors.

“Through the excitement of college life, to our unpredictable careers and beyond, I urge you to consider who might enrich your daily conversations? Who will push you closer to attaining your highest aspirations? Who will be the stranger who changes your life?” she said.

Kaitlin Weiss recited a reflective poem titled, “To the Future of Us,” to her fellow graduates. “Here is to the future of us, physically separate, yes, but together always,” she said.

Director of Library Services Robert Mallalieu, who is retiring from NA after 39 years of service, took the students on a journey down “Friendship Road” in a humorous and inspiring Commencement address about the importance of embracing future colleagues, valuing the friendship of places and finding life-changing friends.

“We wish you all extraordinary lives filled with wonder, discovery, health, happiness and fulfillment, and yes, good, good friends along that remarkable journey,” Mallalieu said.

Humanities faculty member Amy Schottland concluded the ceremony by reciting lyrics from Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World,” urging the students to never lose sight of life’s precious possibilities.

To watch the entire 2021 Commencement Ceremony, click here.