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 October 13 and featured seven members of the Class of 2026.

Julie Ahn, a four-year senior from Seoul, South Korea shared a funny and heartfelt look at her older brother Chris, describing him as an “ocean of generosity” who has brought both chaos and guidance to her life. From childhood injuries to unexpected COVID-19 adventures, Julie recounted the roller-coaster of growing up with him, balancing humor with moments of gratitude. She highlighted the ways he has supported her academically and personally, calling him one of her many blessings. Julie closed by wishing Chris luck as he heads off to the Korean Air Force, grateful for the mark he’s left on her life.

Ava Cwiertniewicz, a two-year senior from Glastonbury, Connecticut reflected on the challenges and growth that come from embracing change. She shared her journey of moving from East Hampton to Glastonbury, then transitioning to Suffield Academy, where she faced new experiences both academically and athletically. Ava described learning to play goalie—an unfamiliar position to her in soccer—as a lesson in resilience, mental focus, and overcoming fear. She noted, “when you don’t allow the fear of change (or the fear of the ball) to hold you back, you can become a better version of yourself.” She highlighted how stepping outside her comfort zone helped her grow, build friendships, and appreciate the support of teachers, family, and her sister. Ava concluded with gratitude for everyone who has welcomed her and helped her thrive at Suffield.

Hadley Edwards, a four-year senior from West Hartford, Connecticut spoke of  how her summers at Teton Valley Ranch Camp in Wyoming shaped her confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging. From summiting mountains at sunrise to crawling through narrow caves, Hadley shared how these challenges taught her that she is capable of more than she realizes. She thanked her teachers, advisors, and family for their constant support, crediting them for helping her grow into someone who takes risks and embraces new experiences. As she reminded her peers, “Be confident in who you are, and take that leap to try something new. You never know how much it could impact you.”

Lilia Rosenkranz, a four-year senior from East Longmeadow, Massachusetts reflected on how her experiences volunteering in healthcare have reshaped her perspective on privilege, control, and compassion. She shared moments of comforting patients—from a young girl needing stiches removed to those battling cancer at Baystate Hospital—and how witnessing their strength taught her empathy and gratitude. “We can’t always control what happens,” she said, “but we can control how we show up for others.” Lilia closed by expressing deep thanks to her friends, family, and advisor for their endless love, guidance, and patience.

Sadie Tulley, a four-year senior from Canton, Connecticut highlighted  her spiritual growth over the past two years. She shared how confirmation classes sparked her journey of faith and taught her the “fruits of God”—love, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control—which guide her in life and relationships. Sadie expressed gratitude to her family for modeling empathy and faith, to her advisor for steady guidance, and to her art teachers for nurturing her creativity. She closed with a verse from Isaiah, highlighting God’s intentional care in shaping each of us and the importance of living with purpose and intention.

Katherine Wen, a three-year senior from Beijing, China reflected on her lifelong tendency to overthink and her journey toward finding balance. She shared how she once believed perfection came from controlling every detail—rewriting texts, worrying about grades, and rehearsing conversations—but realized that real progress comes from letting things unfold naturally. As she put it, “There is a power in letting go of what you can't change, so you have all your energy for what you can.” Katherine thanked her friends, teachers, coaches, advisor, and family for their warmth and support throughout her Suffield experience.

Caelyn Zwirko, a four-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut shared her meaningful experiences at Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. This is a camp for children with physical challenges including Caelyn’s EOE. She described how being a junior staff member last summer allowed her to help campers try new activities, like ziplining and Team Fly, and witness their joy and courage. Caelyn reflected on the camp’s inclusive environment, supportive counselors, and the friendships formed there, emphasizing how it helped make her feel understood and less alone. She concluded by thanking her family, her advisor, Suffield’s Academic Support staff, and the dining hall staff for their guidance and support throughout her time at Suffield. 

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