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 6th. It featured eight members of the Class of 2026.

Ryan Bois, a four-year senior from Cape Cod, Massachusetts reflected on how his relationship with his older brother, James ’24, shaped his Suffield experience. What began as a typical sibling rivalry grew into a deep bond once the two shared time together on campus, especially during his junior year playing JV soccer and lifting together. Ryan shared how those moments—late-night pickleball games, car rides filled with music, and endless laughter—became lasting memories. He encouraged others to appreciate their siblings and the time they share, expressing gratitude to his family, friends, and roommates for their constant support.

Allen Cheng, a four-year senior from Shanghai, China reflected on his journey of growth and belonging at Suffield Academy. Moving to a new country was both exciting and intimidating, but over time Allen discovered that Suffield was more than just a school—it was a community that helped him learn responsibility, resilience, and the value of small moments shared with friends. He expressed gratitude to his teachers, coaches, and advisor for their support, and offered a heartfelt thank-you to his mother for her constant love and encouragement. Allen closed by reminding his classmates to slow down, laugh a little louder, and cherish the everyday moments that make Suffield special.

Seamus Cleary, a three-year senior from Irvington, New York reflected on his evolving relationship with failure and how it shaped his personal growth. Early in life, he feared failure so deeply that it limited his confidence in academics, athletics, and social situations, causing him to avoid challenges rather than embrace them. Over time he realized that true failure lies not in falling short, but in not trying at all. Suffield provided a space where he could confront these fears, take risks, and grow through experience. As he noted, “If you don’t fail, you’re not even trying” — a lesson that underscored the importance of courage, effort, and self-discovery in his journey.

Jackson Fan, a four-year senior from Beijing, China reflected on his initial worries about studying in the U.S.—from language barriers to homesickness—but found that friendships quickly erased those fears. He shared how everyday moments at Suffield, from late-night talks to gym sessions and meals with friends, made the school feel like home. Jackson expressed deep gratitude to his friends, teachers, and parents for making his four years at Suffield joyful, transformative, and full of lasting memories.

Declan Lynam, a four-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut reflected on a guiding principle from his father: “You never know who’s watching.” He shared how this lesson shaped his perspective on integrity, effort, and the impact of small actions on those around him. Declan encouraged his classmates to carry themselves with intention and earn personal respect through their choices. He expressed gratitude to his parents, brothers, and mentors for their support in shaping the person he has become.

Soren Nelson, a four-year senior from Suffield, Connecticut reflected on the unique bond he shares with his twin brother. He described how attending different schools allowed them to explore their own interests—cross country and track for Soren, and agriculture for his brother—while ultimately strengthening their relationship. As Soren put it, “The fact that we didn’t cross paths much meant there wasn’t anything to be fighting about, so our time together became more relaxing than anything else.” He expressed gratitude to his parents, teachers, coaches, and advisor for their support in helping him thrive at Suffield.

Stone Visconti, a four-year senior from West Springfield, Massachusetts reflected on the profound influence of his great-grandmother, Darsy, who was a constant source of love and support throughout his life. He shared how her passing taught him to appreciate the people and moments in life while you have them. Stone recalled her words of encouragement: “I love you honey and I want you to get in there and fight your hardest. I love you so much and always fight,” a mantra he now applies to all areas of his life. He expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, coaches, friends, and advisor for their support and guidance, acknowledging the role they’ve played in shaping his experience at Suffield.

Sophie Kaplan, a three-year senior from Rye, New York spoke about the role models who have shaped her life. From her childhood babysitter Rubi, who taught patience and confidence, to Ms. Killam at Suffield, who became her anchor and guide, Sophie highlighted the importance of support and connection. She also expressed gratitude to her parents, advisors, and friends for their encouragement, emphasizing how mentorship and meaningful relationships have helped her grow.

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