Nine Laguna students were inducted into the prestigious Cum Laude Society during a special ceremony in Ruston Amphitheater on April 20, 2022. Congratulations to the following 2022 Cum Laude recipients from Laguna's Class of 2023: Katherine Ball, Abby Kim, Aden Meisel, and Molly Morouse; and the Class of 2022: Evan Davis, Maura Jaye, Noah Kamps, Phoebe Ray, and Claire Tolles.
Cum Laude Society membership is considered the highest scholastic achievement at independent schools nationwide, and Laguna Blanca is one of only 30 schools in the state of California authorized to admit new members. Chapters are permitted to admit no more than the top 20% of a graduating class, the top 10% of whom may be admitted at the conclusion of their junior year. Membership also requires the demonstration of good character, honor, and integrity.
"Today, we celebrate our students and their academic pursuits. As scholars, these students have demonstrated to us that excellence is not an accident, but a habit," said Head of Upper School Melissa Alkire as she kicked off the ceremony. Opening remarks were also made by Head of School Ron Cino and Director of College Counseling and President of Laguna's Cum Laude Society Matt Struckmeyer. Mr. Struckmeyer explained that joining the esteemed Cum Laude Society means more than just having a high GPA. "These students have added so much to the community through their grit, their tenacity, and their love of learning.”
In keeping with Laguna tradition, seniors who were inducted as juniors in 2021—Frances Carlson, Dare Fitzpatrick, Catie Fristoe, Hanna Masri, and Owen Pryor—shared heartfelt remarks about each new inductee, highlighting their accomplishments and unique qualities.