Celebrating Excellence: Heathwood Hall Honors the Class of 2025 at Senior Awards Ceremony
Surrounded by a sense of reverence, celebration, and pride, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School gathered this week to honor the Class of 2025 at the annual Senior Awards Ceremony. Far more than a series of recognitions, the event marked a meaningful tribute to the leadership, service, scholarship, and character that define this graduating class.
In his opening remarks, Head of Upper School George Scouten captured the spirit of the day: “Today’s awards not only recognize our students’ accomplishments—they reflect the values of our community.”
Serving with Purpose
The ceremony fittingly began with the President’s Volunteer Service Award, presented by Elise Hagstette. This national recognition was awarded to six seniors—Matthew Black, Sophie Chen, Merritt Horan, Priya McLaughlin, Joseph Song, and Asher Zhong—for their outstanding community service, each having dedicated over 100 hours in the past year.
Priya McLaughlin also received the PEAK Student Leadership Award, honoring her long-standing involvement in the school’s outdoor leadership program. A familiar and steady presence across ropes courses and team-building activities, Priya exemplified what it means to lead quietly but powerfully.
Academic Excellence Across Disciplines
Recognition for scholarship came next, beginning with the induction of thirteen students into the prestigious Cum Laude Society, followed by the announcement of National Merit Commended Scholars and National Merit Scholars—a distinction held by only 1% of seniors nationwide. The honorees included Cam Beck, Joseph Hauk, and Mary Ruskell.
Several students also earned top departmental awards. Among them:
Penelope Mann was lauded with the Ryan Fairman Waldron Creative Writing Award, the All Saints Cup in Spanish, and a Senior Exhibition Distinction.
Asher Zhong was honored with the St. Martin Cup in Mathematics and the Headmaster’s Award, recognizing his scholarly depth and relentless curiosity.
Cam Beck earned the St. John Cup in English and the Performing Arts Theatre Award, distinguishing themself as one of the most multifaceted students in recent memory.
Matthew Black received the St. Michael Cup in Science and was also recognized as a SCISA Scholar-Athlete and recipient of the Gayle O. Averyt Award, a tribute to perseverance and quiet strength.
Spotlighting the Arts and Athletics
From creative writing to scientific innovation, from the theater stage to the athletic field, the Class of 2025 showcased talents that span all corners of campus life.
In the arts, Jack Gilchrist was recognized for his visual creativity, while Kate Tucker, a standout in both orchestra and band, was awarded for musical excellence and her acceptance into the University of South Carolina School of Music.
On the athletic front, ten seniors received the Jake Grey Clarkson Award for lettering in three sports, and Cal Peterson was named the SCISA Bill Simpson Scholar-Athlete, capping off an exceptional senior season.
Leadership, Character, and Legacy
Some of the most poignant moments of the morning came during the presentation of the school’s highest awards—those that recognize character, citizenship, and the lasting impact students have had on the school community.
Joseph Song and Penelope Mann were awarded the Earl H. Devanny Memorial Award, honoring excellence across academics and school involvement.
Kaitlyn McFarland was named the recipient of the Robert V. Royall Leadership Award, cited for her steady presence and leadership on the executive council and lacrosse field.
Noah Smith and Gabi McDuffie were each presented the St. Francis Cup for their selfless contributions and quiet dedication.
Josiah Coney received the Elsie Nixon Lamar Alumni Award, an honor steeped in values of compassion, faith, and family.
Perhaps most meaningfully, the First Stone Award, given to the senior who embodies selfless conduct and Judeo-Christian values, was presented to McCullough Adams, described as kind, just, and deeply empathetic.
Looking Ahead
As Head of School Chris Hinchey concluded the event with the presentation of the Headmaster’s Award to Asher Zhong and the Faculty Award for General Excellence to Joseph Hauk, the community was reminded not only of the individual accomplishments celebrated, but also of the collective strength and spirit of the Class of 2025.
“These students have made their mark,” Hinchey reflected. “They have grown as scholars, leaders, and citizens—and they leave behind a legacy of excellence that will inspire the classes that follow.”