Underform Awards Assembly Recognizes a Year of Excellence

The school year is almost over, and the past nine months have been a flurry of activity and achievement. Across academics and athletics, co-curriculars and service, students have challenged themselves to think bigger, reach higher, and grow as Saints. On May 21, Canterbury honored Third, Fourth, and Fifth Form students for their notable achievements and impact on the Canterbury community.

“We are here to honor the hard work and resilience that define the success of these award winners,” said Head of School Caroline Blatti in her opening remarks. “But the awards are not an end in themselves. True success is measured by how you’ve stepped up to be the best version of yourself every single day — how you approach the challenges where no one really actually sees the work you’re putting in. The version of you that we’re looking for isn’t actually perfection. We’re looking for continual growth, because the best version of yourself is the one that works hard because it builds character.”

Congratulations to all of the honorees. We can’t wait to see what you’ll do next year!

The Nicholas DiTullio ’01 Award
Presented each year to Third or Fourth Form student-athletes at the sub-varsity level who have demonstrated a love for and dedication to athletics. 

Tallulah Petkov ’28 & Hank McCarthy ’29

The Dr. Nelson Hume Speech Competition Awards
Given by the English Department in memory of Dr. Nelson Hume, the founding Headmaster, who was himself a noted orator. 

Degan O’Keefe ’28, Francis Foley IV ’27, & Charles Scott III ’27 (Outstanding Speaker for 2026)

The Edward F. Mack Award
In memory of Edward F. Mack, who was a Master at Canterbury from 1928 to 1957, for an outstanding contribution in a particular area of School life.

For Outstanding Contributions to Women of Canterbury
Marygrace Hussey ’27 & Allegra Linero ’27

The Edward J. Duffy ’49 Family Award
For excellence in the study of Studio Art, given in memory of Mr. Duffy by his children.

Jil Costa ’27 & Sujean Park ’27

The James P. Shea Award
In honor of James Shea, coach, history teacher, and department chair who served the School from 1955 to 1997, this award is given to the Fifth Form student of U.S. History who has demonstrated improvement in persuasive argument, curiosity for knowledge through research, and a general appreciation for historical interpretation.

Eleanor Hauser ’27

The James D. Higgins ’44 History Thesis Award
Awarded to the author of the best research paper written in Honors United States History.

Bertalan Hornok ’27

The Joseph O’Brien ’71 Award
In honor of Joe O'Brien, Class of 1971, who demonstrated a lifelong love, appreciation, and proficiency in the English language, this award is given to the Fifth Form student who demonstrates skill in public speaking, appreciation for civil discourse, excellence in both academic and creative writing, and a love of reading.

Yichen “Justin” Bai ’27

The Joseph O’Brien ’71 Faculty Award
In honor of Joseph O'Brien, Class of 1971, who devoted his career to teaching and education. To the faculty member who inspires students with the power of the written and spoken word to bring beauty, meaning, wisdom, and action to the world.

Amy Franklin

The Harvard College Book Award
Given by the Harvard Alumni to a student in the Fifth Form who combines excellence in academics with significant achievement in extracurricular endeavors.

Minhyo “Katie” Tae ’27

The Princeton University Book Award
Awarded to a member of the Fifth Form who displays a concern for the opinion of others while demonstrating exceptional leadership, talent, and competence in both academic and non-academic pursuits.

Sara Anderson ’27

The Yale University Book Award
Presented to a student in the Fifth Form who displays outstanding personal character and intellectual promise.

Jiaqui “Jenny” Yu ’27

The Columbia University Book Award
Presented to a student in the Fifth Form who exhibits the intellectual curiosity and achievement, community activism, and leadership for which Columbia is known in New York City and in the world.

Zachary Mwanza ’27

The Dartmouth College Book Award
Presented by the local Dartmouth Club to a student in the Fifth Form who is in the top 10% of the class, who has demonstrated strong character, has made a positive contribution to the school community, and has excelled in at least one non-academic area.

Yichen “Justin” Bai ’27

The Rensselaer Award
Awarded to a student in the top 10% of the Fifth Form whose academic performance in advanced math and science courses has been outstanding, who demonstrates potential for success in a challenging academic setting, and exhibits significant involvement in extracurricular activities.

Bertalan Hornok ’27

The St. Lawrence University Book Award
Presented by St. Lawrence University to a student in the Fifth Form who has demonstrated a significant commitment to some aspect of sustainability, conservation, climate change, or a topic related to environmental awareness and/or advocacy.

Sujean Park ’27