East Woods School

On June 9, East Woods School celebrated the graduation of the 19 members of the Class of 2023. Next year, the EWS Class of 2023 will attend the following schools: Portledge School, Friends Academy, Choate Rosemary Hall, George School, The Masters School, St. John the Baptist, Sacred Heart Academy, St. Anthony's, St. Dominic's, Harborfields High School, Oyster Bay High School, Syosset High School, Vandermeulen High School, and Roslyn High School. 
During the ceremony, the Kindergarten students and the graduates joined in a heartwarming rendition of "When I Grow Up" from this year's production of Matilda The Musical JR, a special reminder of the connection between the two classes.

 

Commencement began as the Class of 2023 processed up the center aisle as family members, alums, and friends looked on. Head of School, Laura Kang, welcomed everyone and introduced Pastor Adekunmi Browne, Associate Pastor at Christ Apostolic Church, who delivered the invocation prayer. Laura Kang recognized faculty for their milestones at East Woods, acknowledging their contributions to the community. 

The graduates selected East Woods' Athletic Director, Troy Walker, as their speaker. He reminded them of the importance of two core values, family and community. As the Class of 2023 prepares to embark on their new journey, he encouraged them to recognize the significance of staying true to core values. In a world dominated by screens, upholding the authentic values instilled by family and community is essential. He urged them to embrace traditions and demand high standards, never settling for less. He reminded them that they are Spartan strong, strengthened by the love and support needed to face any challenges that may arise. He encouraged them to stay determined on the path of excellence.

Each year two recipients of the James E. Gay Alumni Award are announced during Commencement. Christie Luce McNicol, '71, announced the winners for 2023, George Kakoulides '90 and Fern Senior '97. George is a board-certified neurosurgeon with a distinct passion for film in addition to his medical pursuits. He co-founded IKONA, a pioneering company that leverages virtual reality to revolutionize patient education and enhance the clinical experience. George's brother Socrates graciously accepted the award on his behalf. He emphasized the invaluable lessons imparted by East Woods, highlighting the importance of embracing discomfort, resisting conformity, and being selective in one's choices. Drawing from his personal experience, he recounted his apprehension when stepping into the role of an ice hockey goalie despite never having played hockey before. This transformative encounter laid the groundwork for enduring the discomfort and uncertainty inherent in performing intricate surgeries, ultimately leading to a greater purpose and benefit for his patients. Fern has an extensive background spanning over sixteen years in marketing and business development across diverse tech and media companies. In the past year, she made a significant pivot, redirecting her focus toward entrepreneurial pursuits within the real estate industry while also devoting more time to serving her local community. Fern addressed the graduates, sharing invaluable lessons learned through her teachers and emphasizing the school's mission. She urged the graduates to reflect on their time here and consider friendships made, teachers who guided them, and experiences through the years. Fern asked the graduates to use the values they have gained, consider what they mean to them, and let them help guide them as they move on to the next chapter.

The ceremony concluded with academic, creative, and effort awards and a personalized tribute read by Head of School, Laura Kang, to each graduate as each diploma was awarded. East Woods is very proud of all nineteen members of the Class of 2023, and we look forward to hearing about their adventures and achievements in secondary school and beyond.