Class of ’26 Crosses the Stage at 48th Commencement Ceremony

The Benjamin School celebrated the Class of 2026 during its 48th commencement ceremony, marking the culmination of years of academic achievement, personal growth, and lasting friendships for the graduating seniors.

Student Council President Liam Duffy opened the ceremony by reflecting on the journey the class had taken together, from nervous freshmen navigating the halls of Benjamin Hall to confident graduates preparing for new beginnings.

“Benjamin has become a second home for all of us,” Duffy said. “Tonight is the night to fix our gaze on the future, looking forward to all the amazing firsts that are to come.”

Duffy encouraged classmates to cherish the small moments and relationships that defined their high school experience, quoting Martin Luther King Jr.: “You don’t have to see the whole staircase. Just take the first step.”

Head of School David Faus praised the Class of 2026 for its leadership and commitment to the school community.

“The entire Benjamin community has been inspired by your Buccaneer spirit,” Faus said. “You leave The Benjamin School well prepared and well positioned to succeed.”

Board of Trustees Chair Sasha Klein emphasized the importance of character in shaping the graduating class.

“What gives us such confidence in your future is not simply your accomplishments, though they are extraordinary, but your character, your curiosity, resilience, kindness, and the way you’ve supported one another throughout this journey,” Klein said.

During the ceremony, Upper School Academic Dean Andy Curtis introduced the class’s academic honorees, Salutatorian Siu Park and Valedictorian Chase Zur.

In her address, Park reflected on moving from Seoul, South Korea, to Florida before starting high school and the challenges of adapting to a new environment. She credited her experiences at Benjamin with helping shape her confidence and sense of purpose.

“Every choice I’ve made during my time at Benjamin has made me into the person I am today,” Park said.

Valedictorian Chase Zur spoke about the importance of looking beyond achievements and numbers to recognize the stories, relationships, and experiences that truly define a person.

“Let’s not forget that we are so much more than our numbers,” Zur said. “Genuine curiosity and authentic connection will transform unfamiliar places into home and unfamiliar people into family.”

The ceremony also included the presentation of the school’s prestigious Founders’ Cup Awards, awarded annually to seniors who exemplify the wisdom, character, and leadership of the school’s founders, Marshall and Nancy Benjamin. Kate Quinlivan received the Nancy Benjamin Founder’s Cup, while RJ Peirman received the Marshall Benjamin Founder’s Cup.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of diplomas as the Class of 2026 officially became Benjamin alumni. 

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE ENTIRE 2026 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY