Proud families joined students, faculty, and administrators to celebrate these scholars' achievements in the Upper Campus Gymnasium, recognizing their hard work and dedication to academic excellence. Stephanie Rubin, Upper School Director, opened the ceremony by delivering a brief history of the Cum Laude Society and its commitment to honoring scholastic achievement in secondary schools. Sierra Canyon has already joined the ranks of some of the most prestigious and well-respected high schools in the world by becoming one of only 31 chapters of the Cum Laude Society in California and of 382 nationwide.
Following the introduction, 2023 inductee Alex B. '24 took the stage to give this year's student address. Alex, a Sierra Canyon Lifer, has demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication in mathematics. From 4th Grade, when he joined the Middle School Math Team, to becoming the captain of the Upper School Varsity Math Team, his journey has been remarkable. Throughout Middle School, Alex played a pivotal role in leading these teams to state-level competitions in MATHCOUNTS and helping Sierra Canyon gain recognition at Harvard, MIT, Princeton, and Berkeley math competitions. Alex consistently placed in the top 1% nationally on the American Mathematics Competition, qualifying for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination annually and the USA Math Olympiad twice. His dedication to mathematics led him to complete the School's curriculum by 10th Grade, advancing to college-level courses in linear algebra, differential equations, and macroeconomics.
Mr. Noah Salamon, English Department Chair, delivered the faculty address. He challenged students to embrace excellence for its own sake, emphasizing the importance of pursuing passions and learning for personal fulfillment rather than external rewards. Jim Skrumbis, Head of School, joined him in presenting certificates and commemorative pins to inductees who will proudly wear them on their robes during graduation. Following the ceremony, newly inducted members and their families were honored at a luncheon event at the Porter Valley Country Club.
This year's induction includes 13 new members of the Class of 2024 and 13 new members of the Class of 2025.