Class of 2024 Reflects on Time at DA
Photos by Mary Moore McLean
Some members of Durham Academy’s Class of 2024 joined the community as teenagers, while others have been Cavaliers since their Preschool days. No matter the length of their time at DA, these seniors carry with them indelible memories of teachers, classmates and uniquely DA experiences. Here’s a sampling of what seniors had to say about their time here.
Visit www.da.org/graduation to learn more about each member of the Durham Academy Class of 2024.
"I think Senior Challenge was the most unique experience I've had throughout my time at DA and also the most rewarding. It was extremely difficult and extremely challenging at times (as it's supposed to be), but that is what made it so incredible. I highly recommend taking part in it."
Godiya Mangai
"One unique experience I had was overcoming the adversity that the COVID-19 pandemic presented in my freshman and sophomore years. Starting high school in the midst of a lockdown was incredibly difficult, but it truly taught me to get out of my comfort zone and reach out to the people who I may not have talked to before. Because my social sphere was limited to those in my classes and advisory, I was able to form connections with those outside of my previous friend group. Further, this pushed me to reach for new opportunities that were available, such as the DA theatre program."
Kate Parker
"Although I only participated in DA theatre for one year, the creative freedom it’s given me to express myself has been something perspective-changing. In the theatre environment, you are allowed to be yourself and bring your personal experiences into the work you do. The connections I’ve made with the people during the musical are unlike any other I’ve made during high school."
Alexis Rodriguez
"Being at DA since pre-k, the community of teachers and peers around me has become central to who I am and what I've become. I cannot imagine how my experiences and identity would be now if I hadn't had such a supportive group of mentors around me; but, even more, I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to look up to and develop alongside them my whole life. I not only got to know such incredible teachers, advisors, and friends, but I [also] got to change and grow with them each year."
Will Lindsey
"Over the past four years, Wang Laoshi [Upper School Chinese teacher Bonnie Wang] has helped me through the highs and lows of high school. Her classroom was a place where I could freely express my interests in both academic and extracurricular activities. She encouraged me to pursue my passions through opportunities and resources even when others were apprehensive. No matter the conversation, you could tell that she truly cares about her students and their livelihood. To know and be taught by that kind of teacher is an honor."
Riley Kim
"After four years together, Mr. [Jarrod] Jenzano's cheery attitude and sage advice have left a profound impact on me. As an advisor, Mr. Jenzano was always there to support me, helping me make decisions about course load, extracurriculars, and college despite my less than perfect attendance and attention. His approach to everything made me see the world in a different light, making me more willing to appreciate the beauty in the simplest of things and take the time to follow my curiosity wherever it led. As a calculus teacher, Mr. Jenzano also taught me a lot, even though my grade didn't always reflect it. He taught me the value in being methodical and thorough in everything I do, as well as that sometimes the answer is far simpler than it may seem. I've grown a lot during high school, both as a person and a student, and Mr. Jenzano is to thank for much of that development."
Jack Vail
"Profe [Liliana] Simón inspired my passion for learning the Spanish language. She challenged, encouraged, and supported me throughout my transitions between schools and was always patient with me. She continues to be a driving factor in my motivation to study languages and explore culture."
Olivia Kass
"One of my favorite classes was Mr. [Jordan] Adair's 10th-grade English class. This class meant a lot to me because it was more than just learning about English. Mr. Adair gave his students the opportunity to deal with emotions and to be able to connect with the material we were learning. Mr. Adair was willing to meet with me after school to ensure my work was well-thought out, and he only wanted the best for his students."
Kyla Newkirk