Every year we take the time to honor students who have achieved at a very high level or who have distinguished themselves in some way that we as an Upper School faculty would like to recognize. This is one of my favorite Upper School events and one of the year-end activities I always look forward to. In this most unusual year, we are holding fast to this tradition, albeit over Zoom instead of on campus. At least we don’t have to worry about the theater getting too hot.

 

What we celebrate in this ceremony are the main qualities we value at Colorado Academy. Some of these qualities are captured and reflected through our 6 Cs: Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, Creativity, Character, and Cultural Competency. Some of them are better articulated through our mission statement: Creating curious, kind, courageous, and adventurous learners and leaders. In some cases the students’ quest for authentic learning drove them further than their teachers expected and inspired their peers with the force of their character, intellect, artistic skills, or athletic achievements. No matter which lens we use to view their accomplishments, what we can clearly see is that these students have made the school a better place.

 

This past Tuesday night I had the pleasure of attending another annual tradition, the event where Seniors honor their advisors, most of whom have been with their groups for four years. Once again we would normally gather in person at Dr. Davis’s house, but this year we made do on Zoom. Representative students spoke on behalf of their advisories and gave heartfelt tributes. The evening was as personal, meaningful, and fun as always. It was so gratifying to see and hear the respect and admiration that the students expressed for a group of caring, trusted adults, and I am always pleased to know that the advisories have come together over time, moving from mostly awkward and shy 9th Graders to confident and appreciative Seniors.

 

Today, the tables are turned back, and we, the faculty, have the distinct pleasure of sharing words of gratitude and admiration for the students receiving these accolades today. The teachers have prepared remarks about the students, and in many cases, they will also tell you something about the history of the award being given.

 

Most of our honorees are Seniors, so we also use this opportunity to offer our appreciation for their full careers at CA. This class of 2020 has amazed us with their perseverance and dedication, and along the way they have entertained and delighted us, too.

 

Every year it is my honor to present the Chris Babbs Leadership Award, given annually to one or two Seniors who have exemplified outstanding contributions in leadership to the community.

 

The Award is named after a longtime CA administrator, teacher, and coach, who embodied school leadership in his many roles at CA, including 18 years as Head of School. 

 

This year’s recipients impacted the school in so many ways, and with such grace and intellect, that it is hard to imagine the place without them next year. From both the faculty and student viewpoint, they have impressed us all with their energy, humility, intellect, commitment, and good humor. They have challenged us to think more deeply about things—not just on the academic front—but about major real-world issues, as well. They have contributed so much to multiple clubs and activities, most of which have a service component to them. Amnesty, Community Council, CLT, Ethics Bowl, Mock Trial, Faces of Diversity, GSA, Computer Science Club, MINT, and the list goes on. Where did you both find the time?

 

One of the other things I appreciate about these two is that one is a super lifer who started here in Pre-K, and the other came to CA in 9th Grade, so it shows that there is ample space in this community to be a leader, whether you were practically born here, or whether you spent your formative years at another school. I think it speaks well of them and the school that a deep level of commitment to tradition, combined with new energy and ideas, can bring the school to even greater heights. In the end, I can truly say they have made a lasting impact.

 

So it is with great pleasure that I present the Chris Babbs Leadership Award to Jasmine Bilir and Avery Lin.

 

Both students will receive a copy of a new leadership book called Think Like a Rocket Scientist by the lawyer, entrepreneur, and actual rocket scientist Ozan Varol.

 

The complete list of award winners will be available in an upcoming publication. The entire assembly may be viewed as well. Keep an eye out for information about the link to that recording.