The O’Neal School Celebrates Class of 2026 at Commencement Ceremony

The ceremony honored 21 graduates as they completed their Upper School journey and prepared to begin the next chapter of their academic and personal lives.

 

Salutatorian Caitlyn Blockinger delivered the welcome address, reflecting on growth, perseverance, and the evolving nature of dreams. Drawing inspiration from composer Stephen Sondheim, Blockinger encouraged her classmates to embrace life’s uncertainties and adapt their goals as they move forward. “We have learned that you cannot always trust dreams, but you can readjust them,” she said. “This moment is a celebration of the lives we have lived and the possibilities yet to come.”

 

Head of Upper School Sandy Boyd welcomed families and guests and emphasized the significance of commencement as a transformational milestone. Boyd encouraged graduates to carry forward the values instilled during their time at O’Neal, reminding them that their school community will always remain a place of belonging. “You will leave today as a changed person,” Boyd said. “The lessons, morals, and values you have gained here will continue to guide you in the years ahead. Once a Falcon, always a Falcon.”

 

Valedictorian Ethan Kim delivered the student address, focusing on the importance of effort, resilience, and relationships. Reflecting on the shared experiences of the Class of 2026, Kim noted that success is shaped not only by achievement but by perseverance through challenges. “The real story of our class was written in the unseen hours,” he said. “When effort meets resilience, growth follows.” Kim also expressed gratitude to parents, teachers, and mentors for their support throughout the students’ journey.

 

The ceremony’s keynote address was delivered by O’Neal alumna Nicole Poteat, Class of 2006, who returned to campus 20 years after her own graduation. A National Merit Scholar, Mrs.  Poteat received her undergraduate degree at Harvard University and went on to earn her law degree at Boston College. A senior vice president in corporate finance, she and her family live outside of New York City. In her remarks, Poteat encouraged graduates to embrace curiosity, explore evolving interests, and remain open to change throughout their lives. Using the metaphor of a blank canvas, she reminded students that their paths need not be linear. “You hold the paintbrush,” Poteat said. “Try new colors, pursue new interests, and do not be afraid to redefine your path.”

 

After the receiving of the diplomas, Chair of the Board of Trustees John Taws addressed the graduates on the Board’s behalf, congratulating them and wishing them future success.

 

Interim Head of School Steve Lisk delivered the closing remarks, recognizing the Class of 2026 for its character, individuality, and positive contributions to the O’Neal community. Lisk noted that the class earned acceptances to more than 70 colleges and universities and will matriculate to 13 different campuses this fall. He praised the students not only for their accomplishments but for the way they supported one another and contributed to the school’s culture. “You have given each other the freedom to be yourselves, and that is one of your greatest strengths,” he said.

 

Lisk concluded by encouraging graduates to balance achievement with character, drawing on themes of kindness, integrity, and purpose. “May you carry forward the spirit you have built here,” he said. “You are well prepared to create lives of meaning and to contribute positively to the world.”

 

The Class of 2026 has amassed $3 million in merit-based scholarships and will be attending colleges and universities such as Duke University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, UNC Chapel Hill, Colorado School of Mines, NC State University and University of San Diego.