Class of 2017 Receives Diplomas

Form VI boys, their families and the entire Browning community gathered to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2017 during graduation exercises on June 14 at Christ Church. Head of School John M. Botti, President of the Board of Trustees Valda M. Witt, and Head of Upper School James E. Reynolds presented diplomas to each member of the graduating class. Conor P.D. Harkins '17, president of the Upper School Student Council, offered parting remarks and best wishes to his fellow graduates. He was pleased to note that members of the senior class reached 100% participation in their class gift effort, raising a total of $7,691.13 and setting a record for Form VI fundraising. These funds have been allocated toward the renovation of the Cook Room.

Mr. Reynolds introduced the guest speaker, Radhika Jones, editorial director of Books, The New York Times. Ms. Jones was most recently deputy managing editor of TIME magazine. She studied English and American literature at Harvard and holds a Ph.D. in English and comparative literature from Columbia, where she has also taught courses in writing and literature.

During the graduation exercises, awards and recognition were also given to faculty members. The Grytte Yearbook was dedicated to departing Head of Middle School Chris Dunham. Retiring English teacher Kevin Dearinger was honored by the staff of the Browning Grytte student newspaper and also received the Class of 1979 Faculty Award in Honor of Clair J. Smith. The Lit, a student publication, was dedicated to both Art Department Chair Nik Vlahos and departing art teacher Zachary Davis. The Sabet Award was presented to Chair of the Modern Languages Department Megan Ryan.

Continuing a beloved tradition established by past Headmaster Stephen M. Clement, III, Mr. Botti remarked upon the major accomplishments of each and every Form VI Browning boy. Congratulations to the Class of 2017!