Sanford School Marks 89th Commencement

The ceremony featured remarks from school leadership, student speakers, musical performances, and the presentation of diplomas and senior awards.

Elijah Smith ’25 opened the student speeches with a thoughtful reflection on change, identity, and growth, using the metaphor of the Ship of Theseus to explore how students evolve over time. “Sanford has given us a place not just to grow, but to figure out who we are and who we will become,” Smith said. 

Claire Suto ’25 followed with a speech centered on self-authorship and the impact of shared experience. “The people we have become over the last four years are marked by our shared time together,” she said. Drawing from her own journey, Suto spoke to the power of community and the importance of writing one’s own story. “Life isn't about finding yourself—life is about creating yourself,” she told her peers. 

Upper School Spanish teacher Mac Weymouth, selected by the senior class to deliver the Commencement address, wove the story of the Class of 2025 into a creative narrative inspired by Watership Down. “When we understand our origins, we’re better equipped to take risks,” Weymouth said. “To the Class of 2025—you are our favorite story.”

Musical performances included a solo by Aidan McDermott ’25 and a group performance by seniors John Malloy, Aidan McDermott, Liam Beckenstein, Nasir Kellman, and Nikil Patel.

Mark Anderson, Sanford’s Head of School, delivered his final Commencement address before stepping down from the role. “You don’t have to be the biggest or the loudest or the wealthiest to make a difference,” he said. “Be yourself. That will always be enough.”

Several students were recognized with Commencement awards:

Following the presentation of diplomas, the ceremony concluded with the traditional ringing of the Sanford bell—one ring for each graduate—and the singing of the alma mater.

The full recording of the ceremony is available at youtube.com/watch?v=_qa92yMIFPw.