Kent School News

High above the Kent School campus on Numeral Rock stands a striking monument, one that links generations of students to a past marked by love, loss, and devotion. The Gunn Cross, a towering structure overlooking the valley, was recently restored and reinstalled after years of absence, symbolizing the resilience of the Kent community and the power of remembrance.

Five standout Kent School students recently brought home multiple honors from the 2025 MathCON Finals, held at McCormick Place in Chicago from May 9–11.

Kent School welcomed Erin Reilly ’08 to campus as the inaugural speaker of the Seto Family Inspiration Speaker Series. Reilly, who co-founded Pop! Promos with her Kent classmate, Sterling Wilson ’08, and later served as its CEO, addressed students, faculty, and staff, sharing her experiences as an entrepreneur and reflecting on how her time at Kent shaped her mindset and career path.

The Kent School community came together for Move in Memory—a day dedicated to honoring the lives of Michael Wright ’81, a beloved coach and faculty member, and Owen Trivell ’25, a well-loved student who passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Rooted in remembrance and wellness, the event invited students, faculty, and staff to reflect, connect, and move in their memory.

Kent’s first Wellness Chapel of the spring semester brought the community together through a joyful exploration of music from around the world.

Nine Kent School students recently participated in the local round of the Trig-Star mathematics competition, marking the School’s first time entering the event.

Congratulations to Kent's Associate Chaplain, Brian Cheney, on his disconal ordination at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City.

Kent School’s Social Justice Week 2025 brought the community together for a series of impactful events focused on justice, equity, and compassion.

Robert F. Hoerle ’52, trustee of Kent School and Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Stone Run Capital, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Seymour Preston Award, presented by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).

The John Gray Park ’28 Library was a hub of activity during Kent School’s recent Course Fair, where students explored a range of academic options for the 2025-2026 school year.

Kent students took to the stage for the third annual Talent Show.

The Kent School Model United Nations (KSMUN) team's return from a remarkable trip to the Columbia University Model United Nations Conference, marking over 18 years of participation.

Kent School is celebrating a significant milestone as its Center for Music Studies marks its 10th anniversary.

Kent School's Dean of the Chapel The Rev. Dr. Kelderman, Chaplain Cheney, and Director of Community Service Ms. Sokolnicki traveled to Ft. Lauderdale, FL, to attend the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES) conference.

Kent proudly recognizes all our talented student-athletes and their many accomplishments.

Kent School's Wellness and Athletics departments are partnering with Jennifer O'Donnell-Giles, MS, RDN, a Sports Dietitian, Nutritionist, and Exercise Physiologist.

Congratulations to Sohayla W. '26 on winning the Under-17 Egyptian Junior Open Squash Championships.

The Washington Capitals have announced the appointment of Chris Patrick '94 as their new senior vice president and general manager.

After nearly 50 years of dedicated service to Kent School, beloved Dining Hall employee Harold Orr is retiring.

Kent School proudly recognizes the achievements of Peter MacGill '70 whose extensive personal archive has been recently acquired by The Getty Research Institute.

Head trainer of the Kent School Equestrian Team Lyman Whitehead has been nominated to judge the prestigious ASPCA Maclay Finals. 

Kent School welcomed back Harry Lightfoot '88, who visited the campus to deliver a chapel talk and engage with the community. During his visit, Lightfoot shared his insights on personal growth, leadership, and the importance of humility.

Kent School recently participated in the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES) Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) Conference held in Baltimore, Maryland. The School proudly showcased its Community Conduct Council (CCC) during the event.

At its core, the Kent School Equestrian Team is a community supported by dedicated staff members who find joy and purpose in their roles. Their approach aligns with the school's commitment to character development, shaping independent, compassionate, and capable young adults.

The Kent School Boys Varsity Ice Hockey team clinched the 2024 Earl Martin Large School New England Championships (NEPSAC), marking their third title in five years.

Congratulations to three outstanding teams for clinching their spots in the semifinals of their respective NEPSAC tournaments.

In addition to providing the Kent community with nourishment and nutrition, the Dining Hall acts as a central hub, encouraging strong connections among dedicated staff. Their hard work extends beyond the kitchen, creating an environment where interaction and connection thrive, providing a distinctive dining experience for the entire community. 

Kent School's Neurodiversity Committee stands as a collective force with a shared mission: to redefine the educational experience for neurodivergent individuals at Kent. Rooted in personal connections to neurodiversity and a wealth of experience within educational environments, the committee is actively working to weave neurodiversity into the overall culture of Kent.

Congratulations to Kent's Boys Varsity Hockey, Girls Varsity Basketball, Girls Varsity Hockey, and Varsity Diving teams on qualifying for the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council's winter tournament!

Emmy Award winner Gary Thorne visited Nadal Rink to call the Boys Varsity Hockey game against Canterbury.

Kent School introduced its inaugural Celebration, Exploration, and Assessment (CEA) week, reimagining the typical exam week experience. This initiative sought to redefine the student learning journey by introducing a week that shifted the focus away from the traditional emphasis on exams. Instead, the CEA week aimed to provide a more holistic and dynamic educational experience.

In response to the growing challenges students face in the digital age, Kent School has partnered with The Social Institute (TSI), an online learning platform known for its gamified approach to developing curricula that prioritize well-being, positive social media usage, and technology navigation skills.

Kent School artists and designers are being honored for their impressive accomplishments at the Connecticut Regional Scholastic Art Awards showcasing their exceptional talent and creativity.

Congratulations to Rashid Nuhu '15, recognized as one of Fordham University's 20 in Their 20s.

Kent School representatives attended the 2023 NAIS People of Color Conference (PoCC), a significant gathering focused on fairness and justice. Hosted by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) for over 35 years, this conference serves as a catalyst for professional development, networking, and leadership for educators of color and their allies in independent schools.

Meet the head coaches of our winter varsity teams and learn more about their approach to developing student-athletes. Click on their name to send them an email, or the sport to see more information about the program.

"Personal Geographies," an exhibition including 32 photographs by Trent Davis Bailey '04 is now on view at the Denver Art Museum through February 11, 2024. The collection explores Bailey's profound connection to personal history, the interplay between images and memory, and the captivating landscapes of western Colorado.

Kent School's collaboration with the Squared Network to introduce the STEM-focused college access program, Squared x Kent, marks a significant step toward providing exceptional educational opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. Set to commence in the summer of 2024 on Kent's campus, the program specifically targets first-generation and/or low-income high school students.

Kent School proudly celebrated 50 Years of Girls Rowing at Kent on November 11 and 12, recognizing the women who shaped the rowing program with a special reception, brunch, boat dedications, and alumnae row. 

Kent School's recent implementation of a comprehensive cellphone policy emphasizes its commitment to maintaining a balanced and healthy academic environment. 

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and former Ambassador to Ireland Tom Foley, member of Kent Class of 1970, visited Kent School for a discussion on civil discourse and the contemporary American political landscape.

The Kent School Equestrian Team hosted a two-day progressive clinic featuring esteemed equestrian expert Bernie Traurig.

Kent's recent addition to its athletic department, former Cincinnati Bengals assistant offensive line coach Ben Martin, made recent headlines when he was featured on WFSB, a prominent local news channel.

Leo H​. '24, driven by his interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision, has​ recently gained recognition for his innovative work in dementia prediction. Collaborating with a doctoral student from Cambridge University, Leo incorporated metadata into his approach, achieving significant results.

Kent School is honored to host a 2-day progressive clinic with Bernie Traurig at the Michael O. Page Equestrian Center on Saturday, October 7, and Sunday, October 8, 2023.

Promising athlete secures impressive spot in international competition.

Reunion Weekend brings together hundreds of alumni/ae for a joyful celebration of shared memories and renewed connections.

Sill Society inductee Dick Ahlborn '59 visited campus in May to speak to the community.

"Declivity" resonates with viewers, leaving a lasting impact and sparking meaningful discussions about the connections between past and present.

A showcase of exceptional student talent throughout the years

Wendy C. '23 was selected as one of the top 10 winners from a pool of over 3,000 entries

Connecting youth through art and kindness

The Girls Varsity Squash team battled through four rounds of very close matches to win Division IV at the 2023 U.S. High School Team Squash Championship. 

Kent School recently hosted several events on campus designed to bring awareness to local, national, and global challenges as a part of its Social Justice Week.

The Boys Varsity Squash team looks to extend its winning streak as it travels to Philadelphia this weekend for the 2023 U.S. High School Squash Championships.

Kent School is a distinctly warm, welcoming, and kind community. We had so much footage left over from the Culture of Kindness video that we are following it up with a series of vignettes featuring interactions and moments you haven't yet seen!

Kent School is proud to host the Green Energy Initiative event in Mattison Auditorium on Saturday, October 15. In partnership with the Kent Memorial Library and the Conservation Committee, the event will encourage energy conservation and renewable energy sources to all interested in attending. 

Last spring, the day before fateful exam week, my friend Will texted me with an ominous message. "Do you want to go on a nature walk", my phone read.

Without a second I replied yes.

Hear from all of our fall coaches! Click on their name to send them an email, or the sport to see more information about it on our website.

Kent School is a distinctly warm, welcoming, and kind community. We had so much footage left over from the Culture of Kindness video that we are following it up with a series of vignettes featuring interactions and moments you haven't yet seen!

Kent School is pleased to host screenwriter Curtis Jordon '70 for a screening of his feature film Playing Through on September 30 in Mattison Auditorium at 7 p.m.

"You are here not only because of our belief that you will benefit from the experience of living in the Kent School community and all of the opportunities that will be available to you to here, but also, and more important in my view, because of their belief, that you will make this school better simply by being present in it."

Faculty and staff gathered in St. Joseph's Chapel to kick off the new school year with an opening address from Dean of St. Joseph's Chapel, The Rev. Dr. Kate Kelderman.

And congratulations to "Mama K," as she is known, for completing a Doctor of Ministry in Educational Leadership from Virginia Theological Seminary this summer!

Kent School is a distinctly warm, welcoming, and kind community. See that community in action through this video!

Congratulations to David Quinn '84 who has been appointed as the tenth head coach in San Jose Sharks franchise history.

Following their unexpected but welcomed victory in 2021, The Holy Solars—Kent School's Solar Car Challenge team—won their division again this year!

More than 500 alumni returned to campus for the first Kent School Reunion Weekend since 2019.

Several hundred rowing alumni gathered on Friday, June 17 - during Reunion Weekend - to celebrate 100 years of rowing.

Kent School welcomes the Class of 2022 as the newest members of the Kent alumni community!

Thank you to the honorable John F. Tefft, U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine and Russia (ret.), for visiting Kent School. In addition to discussing the role of a Foreign Service Officer and the process of being appointed to be an Ambassador, Ambassador Tefft answered students’ questions about the process of being appointed a U.S. Ambassador, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the U.S.’s response to it, and more.

In recognition of Michael O. Page's retirement following 28 years of service and leadership at Kent School, Kent's riding facility has been dedicated as Michael O. Page Equestrian Center.

Congratulations to Tiz Mulligan ‘76 for winning the Distinguished Service Award at the NEPSAC Spring Summit! As a student and later a coach and Director of Athletics, Tiz Mulligan worked tirelessly to create new opportunities for girls and women.

Congratulations to the Kent Boys Ice Hockey team for winning the 2022 Martin/Earl NEPSAC Tournament Championship!

Kent School dethroned three-time defending champions Brunswick to earn the program’s first boys national title in the 2022 U.S. High School Championships.

We are pleased to announce that we are partnering with the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education’s Independent School Teaching Residency (ISTR) program!

Kate “KT” Tunstall ‘93 performed live from Times Square this New Year’s Eve!

Congratulations to Kent alumni David Quinn '84, who has been appointed by USA Hockey as the Head Coach of the 2022 Olympic Men's Hockey Team.

Congratulations to Hollis R. '23, who won the Boys U17 Singles category of the 2021 U.S. Junior Squash Championship. U.S. Squash has Hollis ranked as the #2 under 17 player in the country!

Thank you Kent alumnus Ibrahim "Mutala" Mutala '13, who visited soccer practice on Monday, October 13 to share with students his journey from Ghana to Kent School.

Led by Nathan L. ’23, Oscar W. ’22, and Eric T. ’24, Kent’s US-Sino Youth Leadership Initiative has acted upon its mission to “encourage volunteerism and leadership in our communities and beyond” by fundraising, building, and donating 100 bicycles to children of National Guard Officers stationed in Louisiana. Composed of students from across the world, the group’s vision is love has no borders.

Congratulations to the “Holy Solars,” the team of students in Kent’s engineering program, who debuted with an incredible victory in their division at the Solar Car Challenge!

Paul Mantegani has been awarded the 2021 M.D. Nadal Sportsmanship Award, awarded annually to Founders League coaches who “play by the rules, accept victory or defeat graciously, and respect all who assemble and participate.”

Jack Capuano ‘85, who currently serves as an associate coach for the Ottawa Senators, has been named the head coach of the 2021 U.S. Men’s National Hockey Team. Capuano, whose playing career featured stops in the AHL, IHL, and NHL, previously served as head coach of the New York Islanders from 2010-2017 after coaching stints in both the ECHL and AHL.

I want to share a few thoughts with you tonight about your learning here, the School’s hopes for your future and how you might apply your Kent learning to the “real world”, and, finally, gratitude. 

Kent School is proud to be named among the winners of the College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for expanding young women’s access to AP Computer Science Principles.

Democracy describes a system of government, but more importantly for us, it describes a way of living together. A way of living together that values inclusivity, diversity in all its forms, the free exchange of ideas, respect for all voices, and an openness to seeing and understanding another’s perspective. I mention these values and their underpinning in empathy because these are the foundations of Kent School. They are not unfamiliar to us; they are part of us.