Rumsey Hall School celebrated its 126th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, June 6, 2026, honoring 71 VIIth Formers (9th Grade), a class that brought together students from the Washington, Connecticut community, across the United States, and countries around the world including Bermuda, Japan, Korea, Mexico, China, and more. They gathered with family, classmates, faculty, and trustees to mark the culmination of their journey at Rumsey.
The ceremony celebrated a class distinguished by their willingness to challenge themselves, embrace new opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to the life of the School.
Class Speaker Fiona B. ’26 reflected on the experiences that shaped her time at Rumsey, encouraging her classmates to continue stepping beyond their comfort zones and saying yes to new opportunities. She recalled moments when she challenged herself to try something new, from taking a woodshop class, competing in the AMC Math Competition, and participating in Rumsey’s tradition of Airband.
Through each experience, she discovered that growth often begins with a willingness to take a chance. “Each time you try, you become a little braver, and the community becomes a little more alive,” she said.
Her message resonated with the graduating class, whose Rumsey experiences were defined by their curiosity and consistent effort. Through their accomplishments, members of the Class of 2026 matriculated to 39 secondary schools, where they will continue to pursue new opportunities.
The ceremony also featured declamations by Charlie W. ’26 and Sonny K. ’26. Their recitations highlighted the confidence and composure they developed during their years at Rumsey.
Head of School Brooke Giese P’23, ’27 made remarks to the graduates, encouraging them to embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead. Using the Shepaug and Bantam Rivers that run through campus as a metaphor for the journeys before them, she reminded students that the lessons and values they built at Rumsey would remain with them long after they leave.
As the Class of 2026 received their diplomas, they now join a long line of Rumsey alumni, prepared to make their mark in their new schools, their communities, and the world.
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