Country Day Welcomes Its Newest Cum Laude Inductees

Cincinnati Country Day School is pleased to recognize members of the Class of 2026 who have been inducted into the Cum Laude Society, an international organization that honors exceptional academic achievement at the secondary school level. Congratulations to:
Ryaan Arif (Mason)
Gabriel Benitez (Loveland)
Jessica Chen (Milford)
Sanjay Cherukuri (Mason)
Noor Elkasaby (Deerfield Township)
Bee Kohler (Goshen Township)
Kate Kranias (Indian Hill)
Ava Lewis (Anderson Township)
Shiva Shyam (Mason)
Kier Smith (Blue Ash)
Jason Starodub (Liberty Township)
Greta Varga (Blue Ash)
Ali Zimmerman (Indian Hill)

The Cum Laude Society is a distinguished honor organization that recognizes academic excellence in secondary schools. Selection is based on students’ cumulative GPA, with individuals ranking in the top 20 percent of their class across their sophomore and junior years, as well as the first semester of senior year for later inductees. Those chosen not only demonstrate strong academic performance but also uphold high standards of integrity and a sustained commitment to their studies.

“Cum Laude students are academic leaders whose influence extends far beyond their coursework; they help shape the culture and character of the Upper School,” says Jon Zeljo, head of Upper School. “We are proud of all our students who pursue their passions and challenge themselves, embodying the spirit of curiosity, growth, and resiliency.”  

Cincinnati Country Day School has proudly been a member of the Cum Laude Society since 1950, continuing a long‑standing tradition of honoring exceptional academic achievement. The first CCDS Cum Laude Society banquet was held in 1983, thanks to the efforts of long-time English teacher Sara Hickman. Today, the association includes 382 chapters across the United States, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Canada, England, France, and Spain.