News Detail
Newark Academy Graduates the Class of 2024
Newark Academy conferred the degrees of 112 students from the Class of 2024 at the 250th Commencement Exercises in the Kirby Gymnasium on Sunday, June 9, 2024. The Class of 2024 boasted 58 International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidates, 36 National Merit Scholars and 21 Cum Laude Society Members. In addition, 11 members of the class led the Chameleon jazz band to become the No. 1 high school jazz band in the country, 16 are going on to play NCAA athletics in college and 18 served as peer leaders.
“Beyond your many accomplishments, you are an optimistic, upbeat and fun class,” said Head of School Donald M. Austin. “You’ve led the way in making this year of history and celebration for our school.”
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Lawrence “Larry” G. Cetrulo ’67, secretary of the Board, welcomed the Class of 2024 to the community of NA alumni and reminded them to always be kind along their future journeys.
Director of Equity and Inclusion Rochelle Edwards encouraged the Class of 2024 to know what their core values are and to determine what actions they are willing to take to stand firm in those values.
The Newark Academy Concert Choir then performed the school’s Alma Mater, “Toward the Light,” written by Music Teacher Jack Bender.
Avery Cohen ’24 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. “It’s undeniable that over these last four years, we forged profound, enduring bonds, bound together by the sweetest of memories,” she said.
NA alumni parent Clayton S. Rose, who is currently a Baker Foundation Professor of Management Practice at Harvard Business School, and past President of Bowdoin College from 2015 to 2023, delivered the Commencement Address. “As each of you experience the triumphs, the fun, the challenges and the setbacks of college, you will also find, as you did here at Newark Academy, that there’s an amazing community to support you,” Clayton said. “You are not alone, far from it.”
Senior Class President Kieri Keys ’24 sent the graduates off with the traditional turning of the tassel and the throwing of the caps.
To watch the entire 2024 Commencement Ceremony, click here.
An independent school for students in grades 6-12