Celebrating Excellence: Upper School Honors Student Achievements; Kevin Pearson and Nicholas Vredeveld Receive Top Award

The Upper School community came together to celebrate the accomplishments of its students at the annual Awards Day ceremony, where 38 individual recognitions were presented in front of faculty, staff, peers, and families.

The event was more than a moment to spotlight achievements – it was a reflection on a year of growth, perseverance, and shared success.

“Awards Day is a chance to look back and appreciate the year and all it brought, not just about those who get called to the stage; take a moment to reflect and acknowledge that a lot of work was done, a lot of growth happened,” said Jenn Weinheimer, head of upper school, in her opening remarks. “Not everyone wins an award – and that’s life! You are a part of a community of greatness, and today we celebrate a few particular kinds of achievement on this particular timeline. Every kid in this room has some skill, some talent, some ability to connect with others, and we don’t have awards for all those skills and talents. Know that you are seen. Know that you are valued. With or without the piece of paper or the trip to the stage. Celebrate your friends’ successes and keep perspective. There isn’t an award for every personality trait – and awards are never the reason you should pursue anything.”

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the school’s most prestigious honor: the Country Day Award, given to the student who, in the view of the faculty, best embodies the qualities and virtues the school strives to uphold. This year, for only the second time in the past 15 years, two students were selected by the faculty to receive the award: Kevin Pearson `25 (Springdale) and Nicholas Vredeveld `25 (Newtown).

Kevin was celebrated for both his remarkable academic achievements and his genuine character. A standout in the classroom, a leader in the historic CCDS InvenTeam, and a vital member of the flourishing Nighthawk Choir, Kevin has consistently impressed the faculty. Yet it was his character that truly sets him apart.

“He is a leader in empathy, a constant source of warmth and joy,” said one faculty member. “Kevin is curious and poised without a bit of cockiness – except when he’s looking like a billion dollars making his entrance at prom,” said another.

While presenting the award to Kevin, Head of School Rob Zimmerman `98 commented that “his fundamental kindness and humanity are unsurpassed on our entire campus.”

Nicholas Vredeveld was honored for his commitment to purposeful innovation and community impact.

“Nicholas pursues entrepreneurship not for self-glorification or resume-building but rather to solve problems and help his community,” said Rob. “He does it for impact, not influence. And he models the way for truly transformational education…. He’s a role model to others with his humble leadership.”