To honor and celebrate the 29 graduating seniors in the Horizons at New Canaan Country School (NCCS) Class of 2025, staff, board members, alumni, and families attended a graduation and Alumni Association induction ceremony at Country School on Saturday, June 7. Bankwell sponsored the graduation event for the sixth year.
Each member of the Class of 2025 shared a favorite memory and a valuable lesson learned from their time at Horizons at NCCS, insights they'll carry into the next phase of their journeys. Board Chair Leigh Kennedy and Bankwell Support Manager Brian McGregor, a proud Horizons alumnus from the Class of 2008, presented certificates and honor cords to this year's graduating class.
Several significant awards were presented during the ceremony:
The Leah Kimmet College Aid Award, presented by Horizons Office and Development Manager Ginny Pracilio, honored former Horizons Executive Director Leah Kimmet. This award recognizes a graduating Horizons high school senior for their outstanding kindness, enthusiasm, and dedication to others. Catherine Ruano, a graduate of Westhill High School, received the award. Catherine plans to attend the University of Rhode Island in the fall to major in biological sciences.
The inaugural Annie Cohen Scholarship Award was presented by Horizons Board Chair Leigh Kennedy. This meaningful award celebrates the spirit of service and the impact of quiet leadership, recognizing a student who demonstrates a commitment to Horizons' vision of building a more just and equitable society through volunteerism and a willingness to help others. This year's recipient is Kaelyn Beauchette, a graduate of Notre Dame Prep, who has made a difference through her actions, attitude, and how she supports others in the community. Kaelyn will attend Quinnipiac University in the fall, majoring in health, medicine, and society.
The Jackie Roberson Valedictorian Award, presented by Horizons Senior Program Dean of Students and Culture Jackie Roberson, recognizes the student with the highest cumulative GPA throughout their high school years, known for their integrity and participation. This year's recipient is Jonathan Andrade, a graduate of Westhill High School. Jonathan, who plans to attend the University of Hartford in the fall to major in business analytics, achieved the highest weighted GPA in the class and possesses strong teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
The Serenbetz Family Foundation College Scholarships were established in 2023 by The Serenbetz Family Foundation, a longtime supporter of Horizons at NCCS. These two four-year college scholarships are awarded annually, with criteria inspired by the life and legacy of former Academic Director Lavone Roberson, who exemplified courage, resilience, determination, and a deep sense of purpose. Whitney Mallozzi, Horizons Communications, Development and Grants Manager, presented the awards to Janelly Paiz and Isaac Zapata. Janelly, a graduate of Westhill High School, plans to attend Providence College and major in biochemistry. Isaac, a graduate of Norwalk High School, plans to attend Lehigh University and major in chemical engineering.
The event featured an inspiring address from Alyssa Pharuns, a Horizons alumna from the Class of 2017. Alyssa, who earned her bachelor's degree in Political Science, will attend the University of Connecticut's School of Public Policy this fall to pursue her master's in Public Administration. Alyssa shared a powerful message with the graduates: "Growth isn’t always loud. Sometimes it happens in the quiet moments, the hard days, and the lessons you didn’t know you needed. You will have your ups and downs in life, but never forget—there’s always a light at the end of each tunnel." Alyssa then officially welcomed the graduates into the Alumni Association, leading them in the recitation of the Alumni Association Oath.
Leigh Kennedy closed the event by addressing the graduates: “The future is yours, graduates—step into it with confidence and joy. You’ve got this!” In a touching gesture, all students were asked to present a plant to their families, recognizing the love and support that helped them reach this significant milestone.
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