Senior Speakers

January 29, 2026

The senior speaker series, now in its eleventh year, is a valuable Suffield Academy tradition. As the capstone to the Leadership Program, it provides a unique opportunity for students and faculty to hear from each senior and is a weekly highlight in our community. The 2025-2026 senior speaker series continued at chapel on January 27 and featured seven members of the Class of 2026.

Jack MacDonell, a two-year senior from Ontario, Canada, shared how stepping outside his comfort zone helped him find confidence and belonging at Suffield. Arriving from Canada with no football experience, Jack described the uncertainty of joining a team where he didn’t yet fully know the rules—and where he was unsure he fit in. By showing up consistently, embracing mistakes, and committing to the process, he grew from a JV player into a member of the varsity team. Jack emphasized that confidence is built through effort, resilience, and a willingness to try something unfamiliar. Reflecting on the impact of his coaches and teammates, he said, “Confidence doesn’t come from being the best or the biggest—it comes from hard work, determination, and being willing to step into something uncomfortable.”

Mathieu Tivil, a postgraduate from Dorchester, Massachusetts, spoke about the fragility of life and the importance of gratitude. He shared how losing part of his vision in a single moment reshaped his perspective, forcing him to slow down and recognize how easily the things we take for granted can change. Through this experience, Mathieu learned to adapt, reflect, and find purpose by appreciating the small moments and the people around him. He expressed gratitude to his family, coaches, advisors, and teammates for their unwavering support throughout his journey. Emphasizing the lesson he hopes others carry forward, he reminded the community, “Don’t wait until something is taken away from you to appreciate it—sometimes it only takes one moment to change everything.”

Adrianna Bailey-Stewart, a four-year senior from Meriden, Connecticut, reflected on family, resilience, and the power of community. Born with hip dysplasia, Adrianna faced early uncertainty about her ability to walk or play sports, but through her parents’ unwavering advocacy and belief, she was given the chance to defy expectations. Adrianna shared how the strength, determination, and leadership her family instilled in her—values reflected even in her name—carried her through injuries, challenges, and personal growth. Adrianna also expressed gratitude for the Suffield community, including teachers, coaches, and friends who became part of her village and encouraged her to be bold and confident. “My parents would say that it takes a village to raise a child,” she said, “and Suffield Academy has become a part of my village.” She closed by thanking her parents for shaping who she is today and for the foundation that allows her to carry forward the Bailey-Stewart legacy with pride.

Alana Clarke, a three-year senior from Nassau, Bahamas, spoke about the central role her family plays in shaping who she is, especially while being far from home. She shared how distance has deepened her appreciation for the love, understanding, and support her family provides—reminding her that they know her beyond achievements and titles. Through meaningful pieces of jewelry representing her grandparents, siblings, and mother, Alana described how she carries her family’s strength, joy, faith, and resilience with her every day. While Suffield has helped her grow into her independence, it has also reinforced how deeply connected she remains to home. “Even though I am far from home, I never walk alone,” she said, “because my family is always with me.”

MelienaMarie Johnson Hyre, a four-year senior from Salem, Massachusetts, shared a heartfelt and humorous reflection on her relationship with her older sister, Selieka, tracing their journey from childhood rivalry to a deep, lasting friendship. Through stories of sibling chaos, growing pains, and shared memories, Meliena illustrated how their bond evolved as she grew older—especially during high school, when her sister became her most dependable source of support. She spoke about the quiet strength of having someone who shows up consistently, even when it isn’t easy. Meliena also expressed gratitude for the teachers, mentors, friends, and family members who helped guide her along the way, particularly her mother. “The best thing my mom says she’s gotten to see is my sister and I go from sisters to friends,” Meliena shared, “and it’s been one of the best things to be a part of.”

Mari McCarthy, a four-year senior from Hopkinton, Massachusetts, centered her remarks on the profound influence of her older brother, Anthony, whose constant presence and unwavering support have shaped who she is today. Through both humor and honesty, Mari shared how their relationship evolved into one rooted in trust, encouragement, and unconditional care—especially during moments when she doubted herself most. She spoke about the quiet power of having someone who shows up without hesitation, whether that means late-night phone calls, long drives, or simple reassurance. Mari also expressed gratitude for the teachers, friends, and mentors who supported her throughout her time at Suffield, as well as her family for the opportunities they provided. “Who we become is shaped most by the people who believe in us when we forget how to believe in ourselves,” she shared, encouraging others to be the person who stays and shows up for those they love.

Varya Globenko, a three-year senior from Moscow, Russia, reflected on how her sensitivity, once something she viewed as a weakness, became a source of strength and connection at Suffield. Coming to a new country and school, she struggled with cultural differences and the intensity of her emotions, often questioning if she truly belonged. Over time, she found friends who listened, understood, and accepted her fully, showing her that being sensitive was not a flaw but a gift that allowed her to form deeper, more meaningful relationships. Through these experiences, Varya learned that strength can come from openness and honesty, not just toughness or confidence. “Strength doesn’t always look like confidence or toughness. Sometimes strength looks like staying open in a world that makes you want to close,” she said, expressing gratitude to her family, friends, and advisors for supporting her journey.