Senior Speakers

October 30, 2025

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 October 27 and featured seven members of the Class of 2026.

Raegan Carty, a four-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut, spoke about the lasting lessons she has learned from her family, each of whom has helped shape her into who she is today. From her mother’s dedication to her father’s calm leadership, from Tess’s thoughtful problem-solving to Devon’s empathy and Diana’s confidence, Raegan shared how these qualities have guided her growth. She reminded her classmates, “When I am reminded of my family, I am reminded of my biggest teachers in life,” encouraging everyone to cherish their loved ones and never take family for granted as they each move forward in different directions.

Sofia DeSimone, a three-year senior from Cary, North Carolina, hared how a phrase her mother often texted her—“con Dios Adelante” (“with God ahead”)—has guided her through challenges and shaped her perspective. She explained how it represents faith, resilience, and the ability to face uncertainty with calm, reminding her to fully embrace every moment. Sofia reflected on her journey from visiting her sisters at Suffield as a young child to living the experiences she once watched from the sidelines, emphasizing the importance of finding something that grounds you, whether a belief, a place, or supportive people. She concluded by expressing gratitude to her family, advisor, and friends, noting how their love and guidance have helped her thrive, highlighting the lesson she’s carried with her: “even when things don’t go as planned, everything will work out in the end.”

Sarah Kriebel, a two-year senior from Feeding Hills, Massachusetts, described how her understanding of independence changed through her relationship with her younger sister. Initially proud of doing things on her own, Sarah often pushed her sister away, but over time their bond deepened through shared moments, laughter, and trust. She emphasized how her sister’s presence at Suffield strengthened their connection and inspired her to live up to the vision her sister holds of her. Sarah highlighted the value of letting loved ones in, learning that independence doesn’t require isolation. She concluded with an expression of gratitude for her coaches, teachers, grandparents, and parents, acknowledging their guidance, support, and unwavering encouragement throughout her journey.

Santiago Bourgeois, a four-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut, reflected how growing up with two older sisters helped shape him into the person he is today. He described their mix of playful conflicts, guidance, and support, noting that they taught him lessons in hard work, kindness, and patience. Santiago reflected on how this year, with one sister leaving for college, made him appreciate their presence even more. He expressed deep gratitude to his sisters for helping him navigate life, and to his advisor for guidance over the past four years. Santiago concluded by acknowledging how essential his sisters have been in shaping his character and values.

Fischer Stevens, a four-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut, shared his reflections on the importance of living fully in the present. He described how easy it is to get caught up worrying about tests, games, or past regrets, and how being mindful of the present allows one to appreciate the people, moments, and experiences that make Suffield special. Fischer emphasized that living in the moment doesn’t mean ignoring the past or future, but rather not letting them overshadow what is happening now. He expressed gratitude to his family, teachers, coaches, and advisors, specifically highlighting the impact of his chemistry teacher (Paul Caginalp) in shaping his college aspirations. Fischer concluded by honoring the idea of presence through a live piano performance, creating a song on the spot to convey his experiences at Suffield.

Parker Valero, a four-year senior from Nantucket, Massachusetts expressed how happiness is a daily choice rather than a result of life’s circumstances. Drawing on lessons from his mother, he described how even small decisions—like noticing something good, showing kindness, or appreciating simple moments—can shape how we experience life. Parker emphasized that choosing happiness doesn’t mean denying difficult feelings, but instead actively seeking joy and gratitude despite challenges. He encouraged everyone to view happiness as a lifelong practice, a mindset built over time, and concluded by urging the Suffield community to find something to be happy about each day.

MJ Choi, a four-year senior from Seoul, South Korea explored the importance of appreciating the journey rather than rushing toward a destination. He shared how his “transporting time” philosophy—realizing the value of pauses during life’s transitions—was reinforced during a long drive to Cornell, when he stopped to admire a star-filled sky. MJ described how his motivation evolved over the years, from fulfilling expectations to chasing success, and how he learned that reaching goals can feel empty if the process is overlooked. He emphasized the value of being present, noting, “If you drive too fast, you will miss everything along the way that makes the trip worth it. Instead of waiting for the ‘better days’ to come, make today a ‘good one.’” MJ concluded with gratitude for his teachers, advisor, friends, and family, acknowledging their support and guidance throughout his time at Suffield.