Matthew C. Kraft ’09 Memorial Award for Leadership

Each year, Rumsey Hall School presents the Matthew C. Kraft ’09 Memorial Award for Leadership a student(s) in their IVth, Vth, or VIth Form, offering an exceptional opportunity for personal growth and adventure.

This award, established in 2021, funds student outdoor leadership trips prior to their senior year. With this trip in Matt’s memory, the student can experience a challenging and transformative outdoor experience, while learning the values—effort, courage, dedication, joy, and kindness—that Matt embodied.

Applicants submit a brief essay describing a specific program they wish to pursue—such as NOLS, Outward Bound, or a similar experience—and reflect on the values and personal characteristics they hope to develop.

The Head of School, Ian Craig, along with members of the administrative team and the Kraft family, reviewed submissions to select the recipients. Recently, during a morning assembly, the winners shared their experiences to the student body and with Matt’s family and friends.

As a Rumsey community, we will continue to honor Matt’s values and love for the outdoors.