Senior Speakers

The senior speaker series, now in its tenth 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 2024-2025 senior speaker series continued at chapel on February 24. It featured eight members of the Class of 2025.   

Andrew Lange, a three-year senior from Tolland, Connecticut, reflected on the profound meaning of family, breaking it down into key elements—foundation, accountability, membership, idealism, love, and even the color yellow, which he associated with warmth and connection. He emphasized that family is more than just a support system; it is a commitment to one another built on trust, shared values, and selflessness. “To show love in a family, you must be selfless,” he shared, highlighting the importance of unconditional care. Andrew concluded with heartfelt gratitude to his grandparents, brothers, parents, and stepmother for their unwavering support, leaving the audience with one key message: “Family Over Everything.” 

Louie Montalvo, a four-year senior from Wethersfield, Connecticut, reflected on his journey at Suffield, from the moment he knew he belonged at the school to the unexpected struggles that tested him. A devastating injury early in his time at Suffield left him feeling lost, as he had always defined himself as a football player. Unable to play, he withdrew from the community he had once been so eager to join. However, through the support of his teachers, coaches, and friends, he slowly found his way back. He urged others to seek help in difficult times, reminding them, “Do not let your hardships consume you.” Louie expressed deep gratitude for those who never gave up on him, especially his family and his faith, stating, “I thank God every day, for without Him… I am nothing.” As he prepares to leave Suffield, he encouraged underclassmen to embrace every opportunity, warning, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” His speech served as both a reflection on resilience and a reminder to make the most of every moment. 

Nicholas Penuchev, a two-year senior from Toronto, Canada, spoke about the role of change in shaping his life, emphasizing that it is not just something that happens but something we must learn to navigate. Having attended three different high schools in three different places in pursuit of his football dreams, he faced constant challenges—moving away from home, adapting to new cultures, and questioning whether his sacrifices were worth it. Yet, through every transition, he discovered that “change isn’t just about where you end up—it’s about who you become in the process.” He compared life to football, where not every play goes as planned, but the strongest players learn to adapt. Nicholas expressed gratitude to his coaches, teachers, teammates, and especially his parents for their unwavering support. He left his classmates with a powerful reminder: “Change is not the enemy. It is the challenge that strengthens you, the lesson that prepares you, and the opportunity that, if embraced, will shape your future in ways you never expected.”

Jahmir Pitcher, a two-year senior from Albany, New York, spoke about resilience and overcoming adversity, sharing how his transition to Suffield was met with unexpected challenges. Leaving behind a high school where he had built his athletic legacy led to resistance from coaches and teammates, while injuries tested his confidence and determination. Instead of letting setbacks define him, he focused on controlling what he could, strengthening both his mind and body. His perseverance paid off—earning double-digit Division I offers, leading his team in touchdowns, and receiving All-League and All-NEPSAC honors. Jahmir reminded his peers that “the toughest trials carve the deepest lessons” and encouraged them to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. 

Carys Grant, a three-year senior from Warwick, Rhode Island and Colette Tcherevkoff, a three-year senior from Boiceville, New York, reflected on their journey as roommates and best friends at Suffield. When Carys first learned she’d be rooming with Colette, she panicked—she couldn’t pronounce her last name, couldn’t find her on Instagram, and immediately assumed she was going to be weird. Colette, on the other hand, was excited but skeptical about whether Carys could keep up with her meticulous nightly routine. Despite a rocky first impression, the two quickly bonded and have spent the last three years making unforgettable memories—like rearranging their room into a ‘megabed’ every spring term, going on detective missions to recover stolen clothing, and enduring Colette’s enthusiastic performances of Wicked. As their time at Suffield comes to an end, they expressed gratitude for the friendships, lessons, and countless moments that have shaped their experience. Their biggest takeaway? Even if you think your roommate is going to be a bad fit, give them a chance—because they just might become your best friend. 

Paw Law Eh, a four-year senior from Hartford, Connecticut, used her speech to express deep gratitude for the people who have shaped her journey. She began by thanking her parents—her father, for teaching her bravery and the importance of taking risks, and her mother, for instilling in her the power of kindness. Paw credited her siblings, especially her older sister Ku, for inspiring her to persevere even in difficult times. She also acknowledged her second parents, who have always encouraged her to believe in herself and stay true to who she is. Paw extended her appreciation to her childhood friends for reminding her that happiness exists in the places it's meant to be. At Suffield, she expressed gratitude for her college counselor, Mr. Nulan, for always listening to her many rants, and her coach, Mr. Pistel, for pushing her to be her best on and off the court. She closed by thanking everyone who has supported her, through both her highest and lowest moments, in helping her become the person she is today. 

Sammy Nudelman, a three-year senior from West Newton, Massachusetts, reflected on the ups and downs of her Suffield journey, expressing gratitude for the support system and home she found here. She thanked her friends for always being there, her parents for their unwavering support, and her sister Rachel for being her best friend. She acknowledged teachers, including Mr. Cahn, Dr. Webb, Ms. Vasilenko, Ms. Sych, Mr. Johnston, and Mr. C, for pushing her to reach her full potential. She also gave a special thanks to Ms. Tosone for guiding her through the college process and always welcoming her into her office.

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