People – The Mirror

Second Semester Honor Rolls Released

June 4, 2026 by Mirror Staff

June 3, 2026 — Ms. Noel Carmichael, Northwood School’s Dean of Faculty and Academic Affairs, today announced the Honor Rolls for the second semester of the 2026-27 school year, which concluded on May 22, 2026.

DEAN’S LIST
Upperclassmen (Gr. 11 & 12): Minimum weighted GPA of 4.00 with no grade below B+
Underclassmen (Gr. 9 & 10): Minimum weighted GPA of 3.70 with no grade below B+

Joshua Baker ’28
Tessa Barton ’27
Grant Chan ’28
Katey-Anne Clark ’26
Georgie DeSantis ’28
Kate Elbrecht ’26
Terrell Ferreira ’27
Lola Ferrillo ’27
William German ’27
Theodore Ghanimé ’26
Kenna Gillis ’27
Jason Iglesias ’28
Jett Jewett ’27
Zack Klaich ’26
Azuolas Klangauskas ’28
Henry Kress ’26
Jack Kroll ’26
Loélie Lachapelle ’26
Paul Lahaie-Boivin ’29
Sasha Luhur ’27
Owen MacLean ’26
Jackson Marchione ’27
James Martin ’26
Sara Martin ’26
Patrick McCormick ’26
Anna Monette ’26
Max Mortimer ’29
Elliott Murch ’27
Maxwell Notley ’27
Trey Noyce ’28
Lucy Orringer ’29
Rafaël Poulin ’28
Lily Pratt ’26
Florence Richard ’26
Dominica Sarandeva ’26
Kalina Sarandeva ’28
Asa Schwartzberg ’27
Andrew Sherland ’26
Devin Smith ’26
Marley Tracy-Deuss ’27
Orrin Tracy-Deuss ’27
Ashton Turcotte ’27
Ben White ’26
Tendo Zikusoka ’28

HIGH HONOR ROLL
Upperclassmen (Gr. 11 & 12): Minimum weighted GPA of 3.70 with no grade below B
Underclassmen (Gr. 9 & 10): Minimum weighted GPA of 3.30 with no grade below B

Adit Agarwal ’27
Maïka Beaudoin ’27
Kevin Betsch ’26
Clara Boutelle ’26
Andres Castro ’27
Marie-Jeanne Cazes ’26
Reese Combe ’26
Alexander Darby ’26
Victoria Fortier ’27
Charlie Fox ’28
Victor Ghanimé ’27
Luca Giugno ’27
Emma Hagens ’28
Meghan Holmes ’28
John Ide ’26
Philippe Joly ’29
Ashton Khory ’26
Aidan Kress ’27
Gavin Kruger ’26
Cora Major ’27
Noah Moodey ’26
Casey Morrissey ’27
Ethan Nau ’26
Charles Pigeon ’26
Anja Robertson ’26
Conner Sestak ’28
Adam Sherman ’26
Jett Travis ’26
Duncan Van Dorn ’27
Pierce Williams ’27
William Wong ’27
Kaidence Wright ’27
Annette Zuck ’27

HONOR ROLL
Upperclassmen (Gr. 11 & 12): Minimum GPA of 3.30 with no grade below B-
Underclassmen (Gr. 9 & 10): Minimum GPA of 3.00 with no grade below B-

Lexie Alves ’29
Tushaar Anathy ’28
Max Beemsterboer ’27
Nathaniel Benjamin ’26
Cody Betsch ’26
Parker Borden ’27
Ollie Boutelle ’28
Hunter Bridges ’26
Thiago Cesar ’26
Brooke Connors ’27
Ryan Demers ’27
Riley Doyle ’27
Aston Ferrillo ’26
Jack Foisy ’27
Rafi Fondacaro ’26
Carter Jackson ’26
Savva Kalinin ’28
Matthew Kernan ’27
William Koster ’28
Reese L’Esperance ’27
Edouard Laberge ’26
Luke Lalonde ’26
Georgie Larkin ’28
Jackson Magnus ’27
Everett Marin ’28
Hudson Marshall ’27
Liam McGahay ’27
Mikey Mezzetti ’26
Luke Monaco ’27
Joachim Neverdal ’26
Jack Pitts ’27
Sebastian Poleo Reyes ’29
Brennan Poole ’27
Thomas Reynolds ’28
Hamish Riddell ’26
Islay Sheil ’27
Jeremiah Siegal ’29
Jindrich Simanek ’27
Yosef Spear ’26
Penelope St-Pierre ’27
Miles Van Mullen ’27
Harry Vant ’26
Riley Ward ’27
Willow Zhao ’26

EFFORT HONOR ROLL
Attained at least three “excellent” grades, with no effort grades below “good.”

Adit Agarwal ’27
Lexie Alves ’29
Léanne Aubut-Laurin ’26
Joshua Baker ’28
Tessa Barton ’27
Maïka Beaudoin ’27
Cody Betsch ’26
Kevin Betsch ’26
Clara Boutelle ’26
Andres Castro ’27
Marie-Jeanne Cazes ’26
Katey-Anne Clark ’26
Reese Combe ’26
Molly Cook ’28
Cadel Cox ’27
Mati Cruz Alban ’28
Isabella Cummings ’27
Sophie Cunniff ’28
Georgie DeSantis ’28
Kate Elbrecht ’26
Ryan Erster ’27
Terrell Ferreira ’27
Lola Ferrillo ’27
Jack Foisy ’27
Victoria Fortier ’27
Charlie Fox ’28
William German ’27
Kenna Gillis ’27
Luca Giugno ’27
Rylie Griffiths ’26
Emma Hagens ’28
Meghan Holmes ’28
Jason Iglesias ’28
Jett Jewett ’27
Philippe Joly ’29
Autumn Kelly ’26
Zack Klaich ’26
Azuolas Klangauskas ’28
Aidan Kress ’27
Gavin Kruger ’26
Reese L’Esperance ’27
Loélie Lachapelle ’26
Paul Lahaie-Boivin ’29
Luke Lalonde ’26
Sasha Luhur ’27
Owen MacLean ’26
Summer MacLean ’28
Jackson Magnus ’27
Cora Major ’27
Jackson Marchione ’27
Everett Marin ’28
Hudson Marshall ’27
James Martin ’26
Sara Martin ’26
Patrick McCormick ’26
Anna Monette ’26
Noah Moodey ’26
Max Mortimer ’29
Elliott Murch ’27
Joachim Neverdal ’26
Maxwell Notley ’27
Trey Noyce ’28
Lucy Orringer ’29
Charles Pigeon ’26
Jack Pitts ’27
Sebastian Poleo Reyes ’29
Brennan Poole ’27
Rafaël Poulin ’28
Lily Pratt ’26
Thomas Reynolds ’28
Florence Richard ’26
Anja Robertson ’26
Dominica Sarandeva ’26
Kalina Sarandeva ’28
Asa Schwartzberg ’27
Andrew Sherland ’26
Adam Sherman ’26
Aona Shida ’28
Jeremiah Siegal ’29
Jacob Slagel ’26
Devin Smith ’26
Penelope St-Pierre ’27
Max Stracar ’26
Oceanne Thiffault Michel ’26
Marley Tracy-Deuss ’27
Orrin Tracy-Deuss ’27
Ashton Turcotte ’27
Duncan Van Dorn ’27
Miles Van Mullen ’27
Riley Ward ’27
Ben White ’26
William Wong ’27
Kaidence Wright ’27
Willow Zhao ’26
Annette Zuck ’27

Filed Under: Northwood Life, People, Top Story

Recap: The 2026 Commencement Ceremony

May 19, 2026 by Mirror Staff

The 119th Northwood School commencement was held on May 16, 2026. What follows is a summary of the awards and distinctions from the event.

Speakers

Rylie Griffiths and Henry Kress were the class speakers.
Retiring faculty member Lisa Wint was the commencement speaker.

Head’s Council Recognition

Leann Aubut-Laurin
Katherine Elbrecht
Aston Ferrillo
Henry Kress
Noah Moodey
Anna Monette
Tziyon Morris
Charles Pigeon
Florence Richard
Dominica Sarandeva
Andrew Sherland
Jacob Slagel

VANDERLYN R. PINE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING

The Pine Award is given to the faculty member who: “Demonstrates dedication to his or her students; exudes energy and enthusiasm for learning; fosters respect for scholarship and provides a consistency of preparation and classroom delivery which stimulates students to want to learn.” The members of the Northwood student body select the faculty winner through nomination and vote.

Dr. Benjamin LeBlanc

THE IRA A. FLINNER AWARD

Ira Flinner served Northwood School as its headmaster from 1926 to 1951. During his long and legendary service, he fostered excellence in academics and character. His influence is with us today, and it lives on through the achievement of this year’s recipient of the Ira A. Flinner Award.

DOMINICA SARANDEVA

THE HARRY MacDONALD AWARD

Harry MacDonald served behind the scenes at Northwood School for thirty years. The award in his name honors students for whom giving is more important than receiving and who put the greater good in front of his or her own interests.

FLORENCE RICHARD

LUSSI FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

A $4,000 Scholarship, $1000 per year for four years, is awarded to a student who has achieved outstanding performance in academics, demonstrated excellence and achievement in a co- or extra-curricular activity, and who is attending a four-year college or university next year.

LILY PRATT

THE ANNE EDWARDS AWARD

There’s an essence to Northwood School that cannot be put into words. Instead, it shows itself in the actions and character of its community. For thirty-four years, no one displayed this essence better than Anne Edwards. Inspiring community service, offering a maternal shoulder to students in need, even teaching hockey players to knit, Annie wasn’t just an instructor. She was a living personification of the school itself. This year’s award goes to those students who, like Annie Edwards, understood and fully lived the Northwood experience.

HENRY KRESS

ANNA MONETTE

THE JUDITH K. GOOD STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD

The Judith K. Good Student Leadership Award is given in honor of Mrs. Judith Good, who served the Lake Placid community as a mediator and conflict resolution specialist for more than twenty years. The recipient is chosen, and the award given, by students themselves in recognition of the qualities of character they see in a fellow classmate.

CHARLES PIGEON

URFIRER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

This plaque is awarded annually to a member of the Senior Class who, over their last three years at Northwood, has shown the greatest academic growth through their hard work and determination to succeed. The award is given in memory of Mr. Roland Urfirer of Lake Placid, who served on the school’s Board of Trustees from 1973 to 2014.

MICHAEL MEZZETTI

THE DON MELLOR AWARD

The Don Mellor award goes to that student whose participation in outdoor activities embodies Don’s love of our Adirondack environment, his determination to push himself and others to expand the boundaries of their courage, and his sense of the importance of supporting and trusting others in undertaking any adventure, whether scaling a rock face, rafting in whitewater, or simply living a worthy life. Hundreds of Northwood’s students are braver, more prudent, and kinder people after their adventures with Don.

UMA LAGUNA-CURTIS

THE EDWARD M. GOOD HEADMASTER’S PRIZE

This prize is awarded to the students in the graduating class who, in the opinion of the head of school, advised by the faculty, are individuals who have, through their character and enthusiasm, contributed in positive ways to enhance the culture of Northwood School.

ASTON FERRILLO

JACK KROLL

UMA LAGUNA-CURTIS

NOAH MOODEY

PARKER THOMPSON

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Mirroring Lake Placid’s rich Olympic traditions, gold, silver and bronze medals will be awarded to the three graduating seniors who have achieved the highest cumulative academic averages over the past two years. The medals are just a representation of success – that these students were dedicated, made the effort, and excelled in their academic endeavors.

This year’s Bronze medal goes to:

JAMES MARTIN

The Silver medal goes to:

DOMINICA SARANDEVA

And the Gold medal goes to:

KATHERINE ELBRECHT

SCHOOL SEAL PRIZE

The School Seal is the visual representation of what we are and what we stand for. The annual prize is awarded to the senior who has exemplified the high ideals of our Core Values: Responsibility, Courage, Compassion, Integrity, and Respect

Just as the School Seal represents our school, so does the work and influence of this year’s winner embody all that we aspire to be.

KATHERINE (KATE) ELBRECHT

THE NORTHWOOD AWARD

This award is given to a senior who has been, through influence, character, and service, an outstanding citizen of the school, embodying our highest ideals and showing a consistent will to work for the betterment of the entire Northwood community. This is our highest award.

JACOB SLAGEL

THE NORTHWOOD SCHOOL CLASS OF 2025:

Mohamed Ahmed
Léanne Aubut-Laurin
Nathaniel Benjamin
Cody Betsch
Kevin Betsch
Clara Boutelle
Henry Bridges
Marie-Jeanne Cazes
Thiago Cesar
Brackett-Anne Clark
Reese Combe
Alexander Darby
Katherine Elbrecht
Said El Eyssami Montilla
Aston Ferrillo
Rafaelle Fondacaro
Elizabeth Gauvin Langevin
Theodore Ghanimé
Rylie Griffiths
Pablo Hernandez Ponce
Luke Hurlbut
John Ide
Carter Jackson
Angel Chonghao Ji Wang
Autumn Kelly
Ashton Khory
Dowon Kim
Zackary Klaich
Henry Kress
Davor Kriukov Trkovic
Jack Kroll
Gavin Kruger
Edouard Laberge
Loélie Lachapelle
Uma Laguna-Curtis
Luke Lalonde
Henry Loher
Owen MacLean
Justin MacLeod
Griffin Mangan
James Martin
Sara Martin
Patrick McCormick
Michael Mezzetti
Anna Monette
Noah Moodey
Tziyon Morris
Colten Murphy
Ethan Nau
Joachim Neverdal
Charles Pigeon
Cooper Plotts
Lily Pratt
Florence Richard
Hamish Riddell
Anja Robertson
Dominica Sarandeva
Andrew Sherland
Adam Sherman
Jacob Slagel
Devin Smith
Lucas Smith
Yosef Spear
Anton Stackow
Max Stracar
Oceanne Thiffault Michel
Parker Thompson
Jett Travis
Drew Tulloch
Mark Tverskoy
Harry Vant
Anthony Wan
Benjamin White
Tianche Yu
Jingxi Zhao

Filed Under: Northwood Life, People, Top Story

Seniors Share Summer Break Plans

May 18, 2026 by Owen MacLean

Image: TFD Supplies.

As the school year ends, seniors at Northwood are looking forward to graduation and summer break. From exotic vacations to first jobs, this summer will be a busy one, with a wide range of activities and experiences.

Many seniors are planning to travel with family and friends, taking advantage of the warm weather and a few months off from studying. Some are heading to the beach to relax, while others are exploring new cities or going camping. Whether it’s a big international trip or a road trip close to home, travel is something students are really looking forward to. Here are a few highlights:

Henry Kress ’26 is going to France and off to Croatia.

Autumn Kelly ’26 is traveling to England with her dad and granddad.

Jacob Slagel ’26 is traveling to Latvia and Ireland.

Leanne Aubut-Laurin ’26 will be going to Saint Tropez in the south of France with her family and will be attending the horse races in Saratoga.

Music is another big highlight of the summer. Concert season is in full swing, and students have their tickets purchased to see their favorite artists. Outdoor festivals and stadium tours offer fun nights out with friends and are often the highlight of the summer. Here are some of the events Northwood seniors are attending:

Angel Ji ’26 is going to the raves in Spain.

Anna Monette ’26 will be going to Sam Barber in Florida.

Adam Sherman ’26 is going to a concert festival back home in Saratoga.

Sara Martin ’26 will be going to Bluesfest, a concert festival back home in Ottawa.

While summer is a time to be out with friends and have fun, another big part of the break is having a summer job. From working at a camp, landscaping, or a golf course, to working at a store in a shopping mall, it is time for students to gain valuable work experience and make some money. Here is where a few seniors will be spending their time working this summer:

Devin Smith ’26 will be making ice cream at Dairy Queen back home in Denver.

Thiago Cesar ’26 is working in Nashville as a coach for the younger kids at Black Rock.

Edouard Laberge ’26 is going back to his craft at a barbershop in Montreal.

Kevin Betsch ’26 will be doing an internship with California Fire San Diego to explore a possible future as a firefighter.

Summer is shaping up to be a busy time for seniors, with a combination of fun and work. Here’s to hoping it is everyone’s best summer yet.

Student photos by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

Filed Under: Northwood Life, People

Friends to Rivals: Mohamed Ahmed ’26 and Alex Darby ’26

May 18, 2026 by Josh Baker

During the U19 season, Mohamed Ahmed and Alex Darby have built a strong relationship both on and off the pitch. They shared experiences like training sessions, tournaments, and more. This has helped them become a key part of the U19 squad. Now that their time at Northwood is ending, they must prepare to face each other in NCAA soccer.

Ahmed is heading to Clarkson University, while Darby is committed to Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Both colleges compete in the Liberty League, meaning they will face each other many times. Two friends are soon to be rivals.

Ahmed is an exciting player with a game built around creativity and an incredible work rate. As a winger, he is exceptional at taking players on and showing flair in the wide areas of the pitch. His skills and technical ability are great, but his separator is his work rate, both defensively and offensively. Offensively, he is constantly making runs and always moves away from his defender. Defensively, he tracks back well and is strong in his duels. No matter what minute of the game it is, Mohamed is always running, making him a defender’s worst nightmare.

Darby is a completely different player. His playstyle is less about flair and more about tempo and composure. He dictates the game with his technical ability, developed through his time in football environments in both Dubai and Singapore. Darby brings international experience to the U19 Black Rock squad and a powerful sense of maturity. One thing that separates him is his set-piece ability. Darby is a master at free kicks. He scored a free kick in the Las Vegas tournament a couple of months ago that reminded people of Declan Rice from Arsenal. All these traits will help him stand out when he plays at the college level.

What makes this story interesting is that both players know each other’s games well. Having played in the same team, they know each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and habits.

This friendship-to-rival situation is common in Northwood. More examples of this include the upcoming rivalry between Hamish Riddell and Noah Moodey, and between Ashton Khory and Tziyon Morris. These examples show how unique college soccer is and how it can bring people together even if they attend different schools.

For Ahmed and Darby, the next chapter ahead is huge. It will be an opportunity for both to prove a point and show that they can compete at the college level.

Filed Under: People, Sports

Recap: 2026 Senior Dinner Awards

May 18, 2026 by Mirror Staff

Northwood School celebrated the Class of 2026 with a dinner and awards ceremony on Friday, May 15, the evening before commencement. What follows is a summary of the awards distributed that evening. All photos by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

Charles Pigeon ’26 (left) and Anna Monette ’26 at the 2026 Senior Dinner. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

THE JAMES HERD FULLERTON FACULTY PRIZE

James Herd Fullerton graduated from Norwich University in 1930 and joined the faculty at Northwood School in 1932. During his Northwood career, Jim would serve as a math and science teacher, hockey, baseball, and football coach, crew coach and Director of Athletics.

Throughout his more than thirty years at Northwood (1932-1955), Jim Fullerton established a reputation as a caring, compassionate teacher and an innovative, thoughtful coach. But it was through sheer force of his character that Jim Fullerton had the greatest influence on a generation of Northwood graduates. There are countless stories of Jim coming to the aid of a student or player in need of some sage advice, a pat on the back or some firm direction. Mr. Fullerton passed away in 1991.

The Fullerton Prize is awarded annually to a faculty member who has demonstrated the most significant professional growth and/or had the deepest impact upon the overall character development in the student body during the academic year. The winner must embody the qualities of honesty, integrity, compassion, and love of students so valued by Coach Fullerton. The prize is intended to enhance the professional and personal growth of the faculty recipient.

MR. JEFF MILLER

LINDA FRIEDLANDER AWARD

This plaque is presented in recognition of outstanding achievement in academics and in women’s sports. The recipient is chosen for their accomplishments and enthusiasm in developing both their intellectual and physical beings.

KATHERINE ELBRECHT

This is an award given in memory of Tim Hyde, who graTIM HYDE HOCKEY AWARDduated from Northwood in 1962. It is awarded to the hockey player who, in the opinion of the coaches, best exemplifies Tim Hyde’s love of the game and his “never quit” attitude, no matter how stiff the opposition.

PARKER THOMPSON

CHARLES HOLT HOCKEY AWARD

Charlie Holt served as a teacher and coach at Northwood School from 1955 to 1962. After Northwood, Charlie was hockey coach at Colby College and the University of New Hampshire. Considered one of the “true gentlemen” of the game, Charlie Holt embodied the best qualities the game has to offer. A plaque is awarded annually by Northwood School to the members of the boys and girls hockey squads who have shown the best sportsmanship in practice and in games.

PATRICK MCCORMICK

OCEANNE THIFFAULT-MICHEL

MALCOLM SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD

The permanent trophy was given by the late Herbert L. Malcolm, former Headmaster of the Lake Placid School now Northwood School, and the individual plaque is awarded each year to the male and female students who, in the opinion of the faculty athletic committee, have shown the best sportsmanship in athletics throughout the year. The award recognizes qualities of character that enhance the excellence of the teams on which the individuals participate and that reflects positively on Northwood as an institution during athletic competition.

CHARLES PIGEON

MARK “DILL” DRISCOLL SKI AWARD

Mark Driscoll, Class of 1970, was the complete skier, competing in cross-country, jumping, and alpine events. His legacy is one of extraordinary enthusiasm and dedication. As an athlete, a student, and a student leader, Dill was one of the school’s most positively influential characters. The school named the premier ski team award in his honor.

ASTON FERRILLO

TIM SMYTHE AWARD

This award is given to the Northwood student athlete who best displays Tim Smythe’s leadership and courage and who inspires their teammates to rise to any challenge.

MICHAEL (MIKEY) MEZZETTI

WARREN WITHERELL SOCCER AWARD

The Warren Witherell Award is the top award given to a member of the soccer program. Like Mr. Witherell, the recipient of this award has consistently represented Northwood and the program in the finest manner possible as an athlete, student, community member, and leader. This player embodies the full spirit of the Northwood community and the soccer program and has consistently endeavored to improve himself while always setting the highest standard possible for his teammates and classmates to follow.

NOAH MOODEY

DEPARTMENT ACADEMIC AWARDS

ENGLISH PRIZE

The English award goes to a student for whom literature is a passport to all lands and ages, for whom writing is an opportunity to convey worthy ideas with passion and grace.

CLARA BOUTELLE

SCIENCE PRIZE

The Science award is given to a senior who has demonstrated both interest and achievement in the field of science. This student has a strong desire to understand scientific concepts and has an inquisitive mind. In addition, this student thinks about topics beyond the scope of the classroom and completes every assignment with diligence and effort.

DOMINICA SARANDEVA

MATHEMATICS PRIZE

The Mathematics award is given to a student who combines talent with hard work, and whose curiosity and creative thinking provide a lively model for maximizing learning in mathematics.

JAMES MARTIN

SOCIAL SCIENCE PRIZE

The Social Science prize is awarded to a student who has shown deep engagement in the world around them, either looking back on its historic themes and movements or understanding the nuances of current global events. They possess a genuine curiosity to understand why things have developed in the way they have, and a strong sense of how they may go on to shape future events. This prize-winner is a citizen in the truest sense.

RYLIE GRIFFITHS

VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS PRIZES

Creativity, passion, energy, and a zest for artistic excellence are qualities that describe the recipients of these awards.

FOR VISUAL ARTS

JACOB SLAGEL

FOR PERFORMING ARTS/MUSIC

REESE COMBE

PEAK PATHWAYS PRIZE

Peak Pathways is a “Rites of Passage” program in which our learners transition from completing their schoolwork to launching their life’s work. Due to the self-designed and self-directed nature of the program, students must learn to chart, navigate, and flourish on their unique path. Though several learners exemplified the spirit of the Peak Pathways program, the following student is being recognized for their exceptional ability to resource their dreams, exert their autonomy, and grow their sense of mastery. The third annual 12^th grade Peak Pathways Prize is awarded to:

FLORENCE RICHARD

WORLD LANGUAGE PRIZE

The World Language prize is awarded to the student who passionately pursues skill in the speaking, reading, and writing of an additional language. This year’s recipient is:

HENRY KRESS

ENGLISH LEARNER PRIZE

The English Learner Prize is given to a senior who has, through engagement in the Northwood Community, demonstrated an increased mastery of the English language.

LOELIE LACHAPPELLE

INNOVATION, ENGINEERING & ENTREPRENEURSHIP PRIZE

This prize, given to a student for whose curiosity, creative problem solving, and teamwork, helped advance the development and growth of the Innovation, Engineering and Entrepreneurial Studies program.

CHARLES PIGEON

DEO B. COLBURN SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

The Deo B. Colburn scholarships are awarded to students of Essex and Franklin counties who have demonstrated good scholarship and strong character during their years in secondary school. The grants come from the foundation established by Mr. Colburn, Northwood’s long-time neighbor.

Clara Boutelle

Dominica Sarandeva

Uma Laguna-Curtis

Noah Moodey

Yosef Spear

Michael Mezzetti

Filed Under: Northwood Life, People, Top Story

Baker Represents Hong Kong on the World Stage

May 15, 2026 by Noah Moodey

Photo provided.

Over spring break, U17 star Josh Baker ’28 had the honor of being called up to represent Hong Kong’s under-20 National team in their friendlies against top-tier pro teams in Thailand. Being called up to anyone’s national team is difficult in its own regard, but getting called up for the U20 team as a 16-year-old is something otherworldly. “I had played for the younger age groups before, but this was my first time with the U20S, so I really wanted to make a good first impression,” Baker ’28 said. Safe to say, Baker did not disappoint management, tallying a goal and an assist across the two games and helping the team to a couple of good results.

Baker joined an elite group of Northwood stars who have represented their national teams, cementing his name with some Husky legends such as Jace Donawa ’25, Sachiel Ming ’24, Jeremy Tsang ’23, and Machai Davis ’25. The camp took place in Thailand, at some of the nicest facilities in the world, perfect grass fields, gyms, and trainers, all at Josh’s direct disposal.

The first match was intense from the start. Baker was up against Kasetsart FC’s U21 team, and since they were a local team, all the supporters came out in droves to watch the match. There was frenzied air around the pitch, and it definitely made the players on edge. “I had never been in an environment where the fans are like this, and to be honest, it made me quite nervous before the game, but as soon as the match kicked off, that all calmed down, and I was able to get settled in nicely,” Baker ’28 said.

Hong Kong’s U20 team discusses after the first match. Photo: HKFA

Despite performing well in training the prior week, Josh still sat on the bench for the first game, as he was 5 years younger than some of his competitors. It was not long before the staff realized how much they needed Josh on the field, as the team went down 2-0 in the first 60 minutes. That was when the coaching staff decided to put Baker in the match to see if he could turn things around, and boy, did he. With only 30 minutes left, it was a race against the clock, but Baker’s impact was immediate, with him getting a goal back in his first 10 minutes on the field. Josh received the ball on the turn and knifed his way through the professional academy defense before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner, igniting the flames of a comeback. Baker would later add an assist to his name as well, forcing the game to penalties, where he calmly converted his penalty into the bottom corner. Despite this inhuman effort from Baker, Hong Kong still came up short, falling on penalties 4-2, leaving a sour taste in their mouth.

The starting XI before the team’s second match. Photo: HKFA

The second match was against Bangkok United’s U20 team, and it proved to be a bit easier than the first. The coaches wised up and placed Josh in the starting eleven, and the team made quick work of the opponents, winning 3-0. Despite not being on the scoresheet, Josh was instrumental in all three goals, connecting the lines beautifully and running the midfield.

After the two matches, it was time for Josh to return to Northwood, but it is safe to say he made his mark on both the coaching staff and Hong Kong. “I was just happy to be able to live up to the high expectations they had for me. I can’t wait to go back and work on winning some hardware with the U20S this summer!” said a relieved Baker when asked how it felt to play such an instrumental role in Hong Kong’s international break. Baker put everybody on notice with his stellar performance in the two matches, and everyone will be watching keenly to see how he does this summer in his next stint with the national team.

Filed Under: People, Sports

It’s the People, Not the Place: Seniors Reflect on their Experience

May 14, 2026 by Anna Monette

As the year wraps up and all seniors have many lasts, many of us reflect on what makes Northwood so special.

“Something I will miss most is its location. Something I have tried to take advantage of during my time here is the access to the outdoors. There are so many great places to swim, run, bike, hike, or hang out with your friends outside. I am really going to miss running around and swimming in the lake with my friends,” said Jack Kroll. Lake Placid is such a special place and gives everyone at Northwood an opportunity to explore the outdoors. Many people describe Lake Placid in winter as a snow globe, and although it is just a location, it is one that Kroll and his classmates will miss very much.

“I would say going to the fire and listening to music, or when the beach is open, and everyone is there,” said Anja Robertson. Although this may seem like little details, things like these are what people remember and have such a huge impact on them. Leanne Laurin also said, “Going in town with friends and playing cards in the living room,” showing that it really is the small things that make Northwood so special.

Most people had the same answer: “the people” or “the community.”

“My favorite part of being at Northwood is the bonds I have built with everyone. Over time, teammates have become more than just people I play with; they have turned into close friends I can count on. Some of the best moments happen off the field, especially when we are all together at hotels during trips. Those times are full of laughs, inside jokes, and the enjoyment of being around each other. It is those memories and connections that make the experience so special and something I will always remember. “It’s the people, not the place,” said Ashton Khory. Khory put this perfectly into words, and when you think about it, it’s crazy how automatically over half the seniors I asked said the people, since we are surrounded by people who come from different countries and have so many different backgrounds. Still, we are all so like-minded and came to Northwood for a chance to be better people, and every day we push each other to be better.

Northwood is such a special place with very special people, and it has given me and many others memories we will never forget.

Filed Under: Northwood Life, People

Laguna-Curtis Takes Her Final Bow

May 13, 2026 by Yosef Spear

Uma Laguna Curtis ’26 is a 4th-year senior at Northwood who has participated in many activities here, including rock climbing, hiking, freestyle skiing, and dance. She has done trips to places like Red Rocks, Japan, and more. Last week, Uma had her final high school dance recital at Saranac Lake High School, which many people attended. Here’s what she has to say about how dance has influenced her life so far.

Uman Laguna-Curtis ’26 (second from left) in her final dance performance. Photo provided.

“Ballet has taught me a lot of discipline,” she said. “It has also taught me that I can do anything I put my mind to. Having started so late, I was doing ballet for three and a half hours a day my sophomore year, so I could improve enough to take it maybe professionally one day. I no longer have interest in taking it professionally; however, it still brought me so many skills I will continue to use for the rest of my life,” she added.

Ballet isn’t a very noticed sport here at Northwood. However, it is just as important and strenuous as any other, so Uma’s experience has been somewhat personal and unique to the Northwood community.

Uman Laguna-Curtis ’26 (standing, at right) in her final dance performance. Photo provided.

“I think taking ballet while at Northwood has had its ups and downs. I have had a handful of people tell me it is an unathletic activity.” Laguna-Curtis said. “That is frustrating to hear, considering how strenuous ballet is on your body. It is not only mental but very physical. I have also had a fun time sharing this thing I love doing with my peers. It is cool to have people who have never seen a dance show come to watch,” she added.

“My current ballet studio has been so welcoming and supportive and has been a place I look forward to going to. I have been constantly inspired by the girls around me, and every day I dance, I create new memories of happiness and joy,” she said.

Uma has learned that as a ballerina, you are heavily influenced by your studio. This is what she had to say about that, “I think within ballet culture you may find a harsh competitive nature, and I had to experience that in my past studio. I think it is a great way to develop yourself as an athlete and person, but I also think the joy of it is contingent on the studio itself. If you have a mean teacher or the people around you are less supportive, it makes it a difficult thing to enjoy.”

Uman Laguna-Curtis ’26 in her final dance performance. Photo provided.

Her last recital was a mix of emotions and made her consider pursuing ballet after high school. “I don’t think I have fully processed the fact that that was my last recital. I know it made many of the people I dance with very emotional, but many of them have done it their whole lives. I love ballet, and I will never forget when I found it. It has helped me through really hard times, but at times it has put me through some hard times. Though I don’t want to do it as a career anymore, I will definitely keep it up in the future through clubs in college and drop-in classes. I hope dance stays in my life forever,” she said.

Everyone in the crowd who knew Uma knew it was her final high school recital. They had their eyes on her as she performed her last dances of high school. I think everyone who knew her also felt cheerful for her during her recital.

Filed Under: Northwood Life, People

Friends to Rivals: Moodey and Riddell to Join Patriot League

May 13, 2026 by Josh Baker

Soccer at Northwood School does not just develop players for team results; instead, players develop to reach even higher levels. In this case, two Northwood prodigies, Noah Moodey ’26 and Hamish Riddell ’26, are reaching that higher level, committing to Holy Cross and Bucknell University. Once friends, soon-to-be rivals compete in the Patriot League.

Photos: Instagram.

Noah Moodey is an exceptional defensive midfielder. In this position, Noah dictates the tempo of games and controls the entire field. Many people like to say his passing range is like Trent Alexander-Arnold’s, as Noah can deliver high-quality passes no matter what the distance is. His passing, linked to his Pedri-like vision, allows him to break lines and see a whole different game than his opponents do. Defensively, Noah is a brick wall. His defensive ability is comparable to Fabinho’s at Liverpool, as there is simply no way around him.

His soccer journey started when he was just four years old in Massachusetts. He developed his skills at the club level before joining Northwood to reach even higher levels. Northwood allowed Noah to meet players from around the globe, building friendships that will last forever. Constant travel and intense workouts made Noah feel like he was part of a community. That sense of community is one of the reasons Noah committed to Holy Cross. Holy Cross is an exceptional program with a smaller campus and a strong environment, much like the one he found at Northwood School.

Hamish Ridell offers a different type of threat. A gifted right winger from Hong Kong, Hamish uses his pace and technical ability to outmaneuver his opponents. His first step is extremely explosive, comparable to Jeremy Doku’s at Man City. Once Hamish gets his space, there is simply no way to stop him. He attacks with speed and is very unpredictable. A few people from the Northwood U19s like to say that Hamish is the “right-footed Lamine Yamal!”

Together at Northwood, they pushed each other daily. The duo was dynamic on gameday, leaving opponents completely stunned.

When Holy Cross and Bucknell face each other, it will be more than just a conference game. Noah will try to dictate the game while Hamish will amaze the Holy Cross defenders with his range of skill moves and his explosiveness. At the end of the day, the story shows how these young talents have developed and are ready to take the next step in their careers.

Filed Under: Northwood Life, People, Sports

Entrepreneurship Peak Pathway Leads to Business Formation

May 13, 2026 by Yosef Spear

Yosef Spear ’26. Photo by Mr. Michael Aldridge.

My name is Yosef Spear, and I am a 4-year senior at Northwood. Last summer, my friend and I started a local landscaping business to earn some money and gain real-world experience running a business. Even though it is not quite what people would call “legit,” we still learned what it is like to be our own bosses and entrepreneurs. This year, I signed up for the Entrepreneurship Peak Pathway class to work on our business and learn more about entrepreneurship.

I started the year working on a website and finding ways to improve next summer, including running Facebook ads, creating social media accounts, setting up a review collection system, and more. The class offers more than working on what is already real. The somewhat hypothetical business I have been working on has been a rental business for landscaping tools. My vision is to scale our business in the future to the point where we can buy equipment and let people rent it instead of paying a company or someone else to do jobs around their house. I am solving the problem that many people want to work on their own, but they lack the right resources.

Spear’s business logo.

I have watched many videos, read articles, talked to people and entrepreneurs, done speed pitches, and done other research. Some of the crucial information I have found includes the target age, household income, machinery prices and rental rates, the industry’s value, etc.

At the end of the year, we work on creating a pitch that we record and edit to be professional and to leave viewers well-informed about our business vision. So far, I have recorded my video using a professional-grade camera and a green screen. As of now, I have been editing my video to include visuals, which should make the pitch better. Doing editing has been a big task, finding ways to do it without paying for a subscription. I have gotten help from my classmates who have more experience than I do in editing.