Senior Speakers

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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 November 3 and featured eight members of the Class of 2026.

Kaden Agnes, a four-year senior from Weston, Massachusetts, explored the question “Is it worth it?”—a phrase she believes shapes nearly every choice we make. With humor and insight, she shared how her commitment to what matters most, whether diving deep into an AP Lit essay or hauling 24 cans of Diet Coke from CVS, reflects the value she finds in her efforts. Kaden acknowledged that while her choices may seem intense or unusual, they each hold purpose and meaning. She concluded by reminding her peers to take pride in the goals and passions they dedicate themselves to—because, as she put it, “If it’s worth it to you, that’s all that matters.”

Sophia Romaniw, a four-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut, spoke of the bond she shares with her cousin Chelsea, who has been like a sister to her. She described how Chelsea’s guidance and support shaped her as she was growing up, helping with everything from schoolwork to life lessons, and how their relationship—full of both teasing and laughter—has remained a constant source of trust and admiration. Sophia emphasized the value of having someone to look up to and rely on, and how that relationship has been a guiding presence in her life. She concluded by thanking her friends, teachers, advisors, and parents for their support and for making her time at Suffield meaningful.

Dani Stanley, a four-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut, spoke candidly about her mother’s recent breast cancer diagnosis and the profound impact it had on her perspective. She shared how fear, guilt, and living in the past initially weighed heavily on her, but through this experience, she learned to cherish the present and embrace life fully. Dani reflected on the small, everyday moments with loved ones—her mother’s laugh, errands together, quiet TV time—and how they became priceless reminders of life’s fragility. Her message emphasized that love, attention, and time are our most valuable resources, and that waiting for “later” can mean missing what matters most.

Sean Atkins, a three-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut, shared a humorous yet heartfelt reflection on one of his most embarrassing moments—falling on stage during a dance show while dressed as Maui from Moana. What could have been a moment of humiliation became a lasting lesson in resilience. After the fall, Sean’s mother told him something he’s carried ever since: “I’m glad you kept on smiling.” He spoke about how smiling through challenges doesn’t erase failure but transforms it—turning awkward moments into stories of perseverance and growth. Sean reminded his peers that life isn’t about perfection but about laughing at yourself, getting back up, and, above all, keeping on smiling.

Ezra Mendes, a four-year senior from Burlington, Connecticut, reflected on the pressure of perfection and the importance of valuing time. He shared his realization that life is about giving yourself the space to grow, learn, and appreciate the moment rather than obsessing over outcomes. As he said, “If we had all the time in the world to complete our goals and they were guaranteed to come eventually, there would be no satisfaction in completing them.” Ezra encouraged focusing on positives, learning from failures, and cherishing time with the people who matter most. He concluded by thanking his teachers, advisors, dorm parents, and family for their support.

Ethan Stack, a four-year senior from Agawam, Massachusetts, shared a humorous and heartfelt reflection on how life is basically improv. Drawing from a chaotic one-act performance in Mr. Dugan’s acting class, Ethan explained that the key lessons of improv—saying “yes, and,” helping others shine, and not overthinking—are also the keys to navigating life. He reminded his peers that no one truly knows the script: “Maybe your ‘scene’ just takes a weird left turn. That’s okay. The best improv moments come from what you didn’t expect.” Embracing the unexpected and supporting those around you, he said, is what really matters. Ethan closed by expressing gratitude to his family, teachers, and friends for their encouragement throughout his Suffield journey.

Nicholas Warren, a four-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut, reflected on the importance of living each day to the fullest, inspired by a family crisis when his uncle suffered a ruptured aortic aneurysm. He shared the urgency and intensity of that experience, highlighting how quickly life can change and the value of being present and grateful. Nick emphasized that tomorrow isn’t guaranteed and encouraged others to appreciate each moment and count their blessings. He concluded by expressing heartfelt thanks to his parents, friends, teachers, and brothers for their guidance, support, and inspiration throughout his time at Suffield.

Eric Bao, a four-year senior from Shanghai, China, reflected on his time at Suffield through the lens of golf—a sport that taught him patience, perseverance, and the ability to laugh at himself. While he joked about his less-than-perfect shots, he emphasized the deeper lessons of enjoying the process and valuing the people around him—from teammates to coaches—who made every practice and match memorable. Eric encouraged everyone to pursue the things they love, even if they aren’t always perfect at them. He closed by expressing gratitude to his friends, teachers, coaches, advisors, and family for their support and guidance throughout his Suffield journey.