Finding More than A Voice

Kourtni Hamilton '22 has a big voice and even bigger dreams. She has been recognized as an Outstanding Senior at the 66th Annual Kiwanis Student Recognition Luncheon, chosen for the TAP HC Health Care Exploration Program, won the National Schmidt Vocal Competition Encouragement award, and has performed the National Anthem, the school’s alma mater, and many other songs during her tenure at Cincinnati Country Day School. 

"Students expand and prosper here at Country Day, and that's certainly the case with Kourtni," said Sarah Beyreis, director of college counseling.  

Kourtni came to Country Day in 9th grade and made herself known almost immediately, participating in the musical that year. 

"That's my favorite memory from high school – my first musical. We did Chicago, and it was my first performance and production here," said Hamilton. "But I think more than my experience in the performing arts, the most impactful thing to me has been the faculty. They have created an environment where they want us – the students – to succeed. They genuinely care about all their students." 

This year, Kourtni was chosen as Country Day's nominee for Outstand Senior at the 66th Annual Kiwanis Student Recognition Luncheon, an event that recognizes deserving seniors from more than 50 public, private, and parochial schools in the Greater Cincinnati area.  

"The Kiwanis recognition reminds me of how involved I've been here at Country Day. And as I am getting ready to graduate, I feel very prepared for college," said Hamilton. "I've always been a student who has enjoyed school and exceeded academically due to Country Day. So, it's an honor to represent the school as an example of excellence out of the whole student body."  

Kourtni plans to attend Sewanee - The University of the South in Tennessee next year. She will major in music and minor in business because she hopes to manage a record label one day. 

"One of the biggest lessons I've learned at Country Day is to never give up. I know it is cliché, but it’s true. There were times when I wanted to give up on assignments or music or a commitment, but because of the support of my friends and my teachers, and most importantly, my mom, I have kept fighting. My favorite quote is 'Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations' and looking back on my high school experience and how all my hard work has now paid off, that quote sums it all up perfectly."