The end of The Unquowa School’s 95th year was marked with familiar traditions and ceremonies that drew alumni, family and friends. In the evening of June 11, the faculty, staff and Board of the school were joined by many alumni for Commencement as we honored the Class of 2013.

In a tradition that began three years ago, The Jean Carpenter Winton Distinguished Alumni Award was given to an alum who has shown a strong commitment to The Unquowa School since graduating that demonstrates both an ongoing personal connection and a genuine concern for the school’s future.

The 2013 recipient of this award was Bradley Topar ‘99. Brad’s personal sense of connection to Unquowa is clear, as he returns frequently for Founders’ Day, Winter Festival and Commencement. Brad is pictured here with Jean Carpenter Winton ‘34, after whom the award is named. Over the years Brad has stayed in close contact with many of his former Unquowa teachers including Lisa Haseltine (pictured here with Brad and his mother, June). This spring, Brad agreed to take on the role of Young Alumni Chair of The Campaign for Unquowa, a clear demonstration of his commitment to strengthening Unquowa for the future.

Many young alumni with siblings and friends in the Class of 2013 came to help us honor our graduates and to see old friends and their former teachers. They included, from the Class of 2012, Erin Reilly, Micheal Proto, Patrick Tennant and Jaeden McKenzie came to wish the graduates well. From the Class of 2010, Amy Greenberg, Charlie Haviland and MacKenzie Murray were on hand to join the celebration.