Senior Speakers

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 February 24 and featured seven members of the Class of 2026.

Markus Maxwell-Grimes, a three-year senior from Harlem, New York, reflected on how his perception of boarding school transformed from punishment to opportunity through the relationships he built at Suffield. Adjusting from city life to dorm living was not easy, but shared experiences—late nights, early mornings, and “Rod Wave concerts in the dorm showers”—turned his roommate into a brother and his community into family. He spoke movingly about the sacrifices of his mother, whose unwavering support and resilience shaped his drive, and expressed gratitude for the family members, friends, and mentors who stood beside him. Markus emphasized that distance helped him recognize the value of home and the love that sustained him, noting that “nothing compares to having mom’s love and support around.” Grateful for the lessons and connections formed, he closed by recognizing Suffield as a place he is proud to call home.

Parris Sueksagan Moses, a postgraduate from Boston, Massachusetts, shared how even a short time at Suffield can lead to meaningful growth when met with openness and intention. Though on campus for only several months, he embraced unfamiliar spaces, learned to slow down, and discovered the value of structure and community. He emphasized that growth is not measured by time but by effort, noting that “growth does not always come from the amount of time you spend somewhere, but rather from the effort you put into embracing the experience.” Grateful for the belief of his coaches, the guidance of his teachers, and the support of his family, Parris recognized how their influence shaped both his confidence and character. He closed by carrying forward the lessons learned at Suffield, prepared to apply them wherever life leads next. 

Bryce Summers, a postgraduate from Malden, Massachusetts, shared how a second ACL and meniscus tear challenged him both physically and mentally, reshaping his perspective on life and athletics. He highlighted three lessons learned through recovery: appreciating the small things, embracing resilience, and relying on support when needed. He explained, “Setbacks don’t define you—how you respond and adapt to them does,” emphasizing the mindset that carried him through long rehab days. Bryce expressed gratitude to the Suffield community for their encouragement and guidance, noting that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Ultimately, he framed his injury not as an end, but as an opportunity to grow, persevere, and return stronger. 

Zander Waterhouse, a postgraduate from Lisbon, Portugal, recounted the challenge of returning to high school after years away from America, navigating uncertainty, and finding direction. Initially, he admitted to “floating through Suffield, floating through the college process, floating through life,” and waiting for things to fall into place. Over time, he realized that no one would make choices for him, so he began taking control—waking up earlier to train, engaging more intentionally in classes, and communicating honestly with his counselor. Zander emphasized, “I still drift sometimes, but I’d rather move with uncertainty than float without direction,” highlighting the importance of action even when outcomes are unclear. His speech celebrated growth through self-awareness, resilience, and the courage to move forward despite uncertainty. 

CJ Buron, a two-year senior from Bridgewater, Massachusetts, explored how names introduce us, but the people in our lives shape who we become. Known to most as CJ, she reflected on the deeper meaning behind Caitlin, Judith, and Buron—each honoring generations of strength, resilience, and family pride. Growing up with four older brothers, she learned leadership, discipline, loyalty, and the confidence to find her voice, even if it meant “fighting to get a word in at the dinner table.” She emphasized that character is built through example and sacrifice, crediting her parents for creating opportunities and modeling unwavering support. With gratitude for her family, friends, coaches, and mentors, CJ reminded the community not to take Suffield’s opportunities for granted and to carry forward the values that shape who we are. 

Ciara Dellea, a four-year senior from Hillsdale, New York, reflected on the powerful influence of sibling relationships and how they shaped her understanding of leadership and responsibility. Growing up inseparable from her older brother, she mirrored his interests, friendships, and confidence, only later realizing he had been modeling kindness, independence, and character all along. That perspective shifted when she became a role model to her younger sister, teaching her that leadership is not about perfection but about intention and example. As she explained, “Being a role model isn’t about being perfect—it’s about trying your best and making good choices,” a lesson that deepened her awareness of how her actions shape others. With gratitude for her siblings, parents, and advisor, Ciara celebrated the family bonds that guided her growth and continue to define who she is today. 

Kira Haroche, a four-year senior from Greenwich, Connecticut, shared the evolution of an unlikely friendship with her freshman-year roommate, Mette Feldman. Initially, the two clashed over everything from cleanliness to personal habits, with Kira noting, “I hated my roommate,” and recounting how she navigated weeks of chaos—including a mysterious chocolate milk bottle and nightly phone confiscations—to establish boundaries. Over time, patience, persistence, and compromise transformed their relationship into a deep, sibling-like bond. Kira reflected on the journey, saying, “Just because you hate somebody in the beginning doesn’t mean they aren’t your person,” celebrating the unexpected connections that shape life at Suffield. Her story underscored growth, resilience, and the power of friendship forged through challenges. 

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