The following students will graduate Summa Cum Laude from Thornton Academy. To earn Summa cum Laude, a student must have a grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 or higher.
Reese J. Ahearn of Old Orchard Beach, son of Kimberly and Ryan Ahearn, played soccer, competed in both indoor and outdoor track and was an active member of the National Honor Society. Reece received the Saint Michael’s Book Award, earned first honors through his four years, collected several awards for academic excellence, and was named Student of the Quarter in his junior year. He plans to major in Business at the University of New Hampshire.
Colby J. Bilodeau of Arundel, son of Sonia and Ron Bilodeau, was an Academic All American, member of the National Honor Society, and earned various departmental awards. He was a member of the hockey, lacrosse, and golf teams. Colby plans to attend North Carolina State University and major in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
Victoria L. Boure of Saco, daughter of Christine Girard and Patrick Boure, was a member of the National Honor Society and earned high honors each quarter of high school. She also earned Spanish honors through a national exam, as well as a Certification of Accomplishment from the national speech and debate association. Victoria plans to study Psychology at the University of Maine, Orono.
Cody William Bowker of Bowdoinham, son of Patrizia and Mark Bowker, was a baseball and basketball volunteer at Fairfield Elementary School. He excelled in sports, being named co-player of the year, first team all-conference baseball, All State baseball team, and batting champion. Cody plans to attend Georgetown University, and is considering a major in international or political business.
Michael J. Burns of Saco, son of Melissa and Kevin Burns, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in AP Calculus AB, Honors Chemistry, Geometry, Honors German I and II, and Honors Precalculus; Certificate of Achievement in Honors Biology; and a Certificate of Participation in AMC 10, Math Team
Pablo Calvo De La Fuente of Laguna De Duero, Spain, son of Ana de la Fuente and David Calvo, was a member of the Thornton Academy Robotics Club and also the TA Swimming team. He plans to attend State University of New York at Stony Book to major in Mathematics.
Dingqi Harley Chen of Beijing, China, son of Qianlei (Charley) Chen and Yanxia Gou, was a member of the National Honor Society, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and received First Honor Roll Award each year. In addition to several awards for excellence, he also received an Innovation and Creativity Award from the Rochester Institute of Technology, and was a finalist in the High School Mathematical Contest in Modeling. He is narrowing down his choice of college and major.
Benjamin Thomas Cobb of Saco, son of Dawn and Randall Cobb, is the class Valedictorian. Ben received the Rensselaer Medal; Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Honors Biology; Certificate of Achievement AP Calculus AB, AP Human Geography, Honors Chemistry, and Honors Precalculus; Certificate of Participation for the Math Team. He was also a member of the Robotics Team. He plans to major in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Maine.
Kristen Marie Costa of Saco, daughter of Susan and Troy Costa, earned the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Honors Algebra 2, Drawing, Honors Drawing, Honors Junior English, Honors Painting, Visual Arts I; Certificate of Achievement in CP Physics, English, Honor Geometry, Modern US History, Psychology, and Web Design; Magna cum Laude in Latin II. She plans to study English Secondary Education at the University of Southern Maine.
Mathielde Lindberg Cristofoli of Birkerød, Denmark, daughter of Soren and Marianne Cristofoli, participated in Honors Human Geography and was a member of the TED-X marketing group. She plans to attend Gentofte Gymnasium in her native Denmark.
Roman Llewellyn Crossetti of Saco, son of Marlaand Steve Crossetti, was a member of the National Honor Society and was on the honor roll throughout his four years. He earned recognition for academic excellence in Algebra I, People’s and World Cultures, Chemistry, AP Human Geography; and a Certificate of Achievement in Digital Citizenship, French I & III, and Honors Physical Science. He was also a member of the TA hockey team. Roman plans to attend St. Joseph’s College of Maine.
Madeline Celia Darigan of Saco, daughter of Jennifer and Daniel Darigan, participated in a long list of performance arts, including Chamber Singers, Orchestra, Drama Club, Jazz Band, and String Quartet. In addition to excelling in performances, she was member of the National Honor Society, sat on the Student Council, and earned a Certificate of Excellence and Magna cum laude recognition in several classes, including AP Environmental Science, and English. Madeline plans to pursue a degree in vocal performance.
Abrial Hannah Davis of Arundel, daughter of Elyse and Ethan Davis, was a National Honor Society Member, National Technical Honors Society, earned First Honors throughout her four years, and was named to the SMAA All-Academic Team. She plans to study Chemical Engineering at the University of Maine.
Ezra Stone Davis of Arundel, son of Chris and Tracy Davis, received the Academic Achievement Award from the Phi Beta Kappa Association of Maine. Erza participated in Cross Country, Indoor and Outdoor Track, Chinese Club, Community Leaders Club, and Student Council. He plans to study Chemical Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
Deven Renee Alexander Dean of North Waterboro, son of Sherri Miknevich and Anthony Dean, received the Excellence in Academics Award from the College Board. He participated in Chinese Club, Indoor Track, Track, and the Developmental Golf Team. Deven plans to study Mathematics at Texas A & M.
Lilly Elizabeth DesRoberts of Saco, daughter of Amy and Kevin Desroberts, was a member of the National Honor Society, Senior Class President, and Editor-in-chief of the yearbook while working as a sterilization technician at a local orthodontics office and a merchandise associate at a retail store. She received academic awards and achievements in her Sophomore and Junior years, and earned High Honor Roll all four years. She plans to attend Salve Regina University to study Biochemistry with a pre-dental track.
Martim Esteves Gomes of Portugal, son of Olga Esteves and Manuel Gomes. In addition to excelling in his academics at Thornton, Martim received honors and excellence awards during his early high school years in Portugal. He plans to return to college in Barcelona to study Business and Management.
Emma Ferland of Saco, daughter of Beth and Russ Ferland, received the Honor Roll Award; Award for Excellence in Honors Algebra 2, Honors French IV/V, and Junior English; Achievement Award for Blind Eye of History and Pottery. Emma plans to study Bio and Forensic Science at Hofstra.
Ronan Murphy Flynn of Saco, son of Leo and Margaret Flynn, was a member of the National Honor Society, a 2021 Lacrosse Academic All American, and received various Departmental Awards. Ronan will study Mechanical Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
Abigail Beatrice Fox of Saco, daughter of Karen and Patrick Fox, was a member of the National Honor Society and Southwestern Maine Activities Association All-Academic Team Member and earned First Honors throughout her years at Thornton. Abigail plans to study Biology at Northeastern University.
Mikas Azuolas Freeman of Saco, son of Stefa Normantas and Franklin Freeman, received the RIT Computing Medal and earned High Honors throughout his career. He also received a Certificate of Excellence in Homeric Greek I; Certificate of Achievement Awards in Honors English, Honors Geometry, and Physical Science; and Magna cum Laude Latin I & II. He was also a member of the Tabletop Club. Mikas will study Computer Science in college.
Carter Shaun Illingworth of Saco, son of Shawna and Micah Illingworth, was a member of the National Honor Society, played football, and received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in AP Human Geography, Blind Eye of History, French I, and Honors Modern U.S. History; Certificate of Achievement in Chemistry, Honors French III, and Visual Arts I.
Marina Jokanovic of Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, daughter of Adrijanaand Igor Jokanovic, was a member of the Thornton Academy Players drama club. She enjoys singing, reading, and creative writing, and plans to major in Musical Theater at North Central College.
Mia-Claire Kezal of Saco, daughter of Amanda and Kevin Kezal, excelled in both the classroom and athletically. A member of the National Honor Society (President), Mia-Claire earned several academic awards: Dartmouth College Award, the AP Scholar with Distinction Award, Daughters of the American Revolution Award, Honor Roll, and was recognized for achievements in Science, Chinese, Mathematics, English, History, Physics, Chemistry, and Macroeconomics. Mia-Claire plans to attend the United States Naval Academy to major in Operations Research and minor in Chinese.
Minsung “Daniel” Kim of Seoul, South Korea, son of Sangho Kim and Eunja Lee, earned First Honors throughout his career at Thornton. He was an SAT tutor, Algebra II Teacher assistant, played basketball, soccer, and baseball, and was involved in several community programs. He plans to study Economics in college.
Ye Won “Sarah” Kim of Seoul, South Korea, daughter of Hyunki Na and Taehoon Kim, received the Honor Roll Award and Award for Excellence in Junior English.
Rachel LeProhon of Saco, daughter of Nicole Migliore and John LeProhon, was a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, and Interact Club. She was on the Honor Roll all four years at Thornton. Rachel is considering her college options and plans to major in Business.
Kelvin Y Lin of Saco, son of Hui and Xiang Lin, received the St. Anselm College Award; Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Honors Algebra 2, AP Human Geography, Honors Geometry Honors Pre-calculus; Certificate of Achievement in AP Macroeconomics, Digital Imaging I, Honors Chinese I, II, and III, Honors English, Peoples & World Cultures. He plans to major in Mechanical Engineering.
Lydia Belle Maxcy of Saco, daughter of Deborah and Steven Maxcy, was a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, Mentoring. She earned a Pillar Award, and was voted to have the “Most School Spirit” by her classmates. She plans to major in Elementary Education at Endicott College.
Laura Malia Ouellette L of Saco, daughter of Amy and Lucien Ouellette, was a member of the National Honor Society, AP Scholar, National Merit Finalist, and Presidential Scholar Nominee. She plans to study Environmental Engineering at University of Colorado, Boulder.
Kailan Pan of Saco, son of Chunchang Pan and Xueyan Guan, was named to the Honor Roll throughout his high school years and earned awards for academic excellence. He plans to study Mechanical Engineering at Boston University.
Dohyun “Danny” Park of Seoul, South Korea, son of Cha Kwang Park and Hye Seo Nam, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Honors Chinese III; Certificate of Achievement in AP Calculus AB, and AP Physics; and Certificate of Participation in AMC 23 and Math Team.
Paris Raine Parker of Arundel, the daughter of Sandra and Daniel Parker, was recognized for Academic Excellence, earned High Honors, and was a member of the National Honor Society. She also received the Hoc Testimonium Scriptum Recognoscit Award and Cum Laude Latin III/IV Award. Paris plans to enroll in the Pre-Med program at University of South Florida.
Katharine Jeanne Poulin of Kennebunk, daughter of Cheri and George Poulin, was a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, Interact Club, and Community Leader Club. She received the Junior Student of the Quarter Award and the Smith College Book Award. Katharine plans to attend the University of Maine Honors College to study Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Dante Charles Reali of Saco, son of Daniel Reali and Brenna Millett, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in English; Certificate of Achievement in AP Human Geography, Blind Eye of History, Digital Design, Honors Algebra 1, Honors Physics, Honors Spanish I, II, and III.
Cody M. Ruff of Saco, son of Catherine Sotir and Stanley Ruff, was a member of the National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society. Cody received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Modern US History Honors; Certificate of Achievement in Blind Eye of History, Honors Geometry, Honors Precalculus, and Principles of Personal FitnessHe was a member of the Interact Club and played football, basketball, and lacrosse. Cody plans to study Finance in college.
Eduardo Shibata of Mogi das Cruzes, Brazil, son of Anderson and Edna Shibata, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Honors Algebra 2, Honors Chemistry, Honors Geometry, and Guitar. He plans to study Data or Computer Science in college.
Green Shin of Seoul, South Korea, daughter of Seongsoo Shin, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Precalculus with Trigonometry; Certificate of Achievement in Honors Physics and Transitional English. He was also Student Council Vice President, TEDx co-leader, Korean Club Secretary, Dorm Prefect, and Representative of South Korea in international Fair. He plans to return to South Korea to study International Relationships.
Kayleigh Catherine Smith of Saco, daughter of Caren and Steve Smith, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Acting 2, Honors Algebra 1, Blind Eye of History, CP Physics, French I, Honors English, and Spanish III; Certificate of Achievement in English, Honors Algebra 2, Modern US History Honors, Peoples & World Cultures, Physical Science, Principles of Personal Fitness, and Spanish I.
Grace Elizabeth Sommer of Dayton, daughter of Shelly Northrop and Ryan Sommer, was a member of Student Council, Action Team, National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Unified Basketball, and Unified Club. She received the Honor Roll Award; Achievements of Excellence in Blind Eye of History, Honors Modern U.S. History, Honors Anatomy and Physiology, and AP Human Geography. In her Junior year she received Most Outstanding Student in Introduction to Education and the St. Lawrence University Award. Grace plans to major in Elementary Education at the University of Maine at Farmington.
Elise Anne Soucy of Saco, daughter of Kristie and John Soucy, Jr., was a member of the National Honor Society, earned the Honor Roll Award and received the Lasell University Book Award and several academic awards and recognition: Certificate of Excellence in People’s and World Cultures, Honors Spanish 1, Honors Sophomore English, Certificate of Achievement in Honors Freshman English, Honors Physical Science, Blind Eye of History, Honors Geometry, Honors Spanish 3, Honors Modern U.S. History, and Honors Algebra 2. She plans to study Elementary Education at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine.
Charles Logan Tilburg of Buxton, son of Charles and Christine Tilburg, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in America’s Response to a Changing World, Honors French IV/V, and Honors Precalculus; Certificate of Achievement in French III, Honors Biology, Concert Choir, and Honors English; and a Certificate of Participation in AMC12.
Emma Hope Townsend of Saco, daughter of Brian and Susan Townsend, was a member of the National Honor Society, Interact Club, and participated in tutoring. SHe earned the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in AP Biology, Blind Eye of History, Honors Algebra 2, Honors Geometry, Spanish III; Achievement in Honors Biology, and Honors Spanish I. She plans to study Biochemistry.
Elizabeth Madeleine Turnidge of Saco, daughter of Carolyn and Martin Turnidge, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Blind Eye of History, and Honors Geometry; Certificate of Achievement in Honors Algebra 2, Chamber Singers, and Honors English. She plans to attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
Jonathan Paul Umel of Saco, son of Seth Umel and Julie Carvelli, received multiple class awards, earned High Honors throughout his career, and played soccer. He plans to attend the University of New Hampshire to study Business Administration or Accounting.
Zander Leo Unger of South Portland, son of Jen Cote and Ken Unger, was an AP Scholar with Distinction, member of the National Honor Society, and the Robotics Team. Zander earned the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Honors Algebra 2, Honors Biology, Honors Chemistry; Certificate of Achievement in Precalculus and Honors Spanish. He plans to study Aerospace Engineering at Purdue.
Alan John Verreault of Saco, son of Candace and Jeff Verreault, received the College of the Atlantic Award; Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in AP Macroeconomics, and Honors Physical Science; Certificate of Achievement in America’s Response to a Changing World, Honors Algebra 1, Honors French I & II, Principles of Personal Fitness, and Visual Art I. He plans to study Engineering at Northeastern University.
Kaitlyn Anne Walsh of Saco, daughter of Susan and Sean Walsh, participated in a long list of Arts activities, including the TA Jazz Band, Orchestra, and TA Dance Company. In addition to recognition for her musical performances, she was also a member of the National Honor Society. Kaitlyn plans to study Music Education in College with a concentration in violin.
Rongze “Justin” Wang of Zhejiang, China, son of Chunfeng Chen and Huaqi He, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in AP Statistics; Certificate of Achievement in French I, Junior English, Honors Pre-calculus, Modern U.S. History, and Physics; Certificate of Participation in AMC 10, AMC 12 and Math Team.
Jianer Jimmy Xuan of Saco, son of Yihua Xuan and Jianzhen Lin, received the Honor Roll Award; Certificate of Excellence in Honors French II & III, Honors Geometry, and Physical Science; Certificate of Achievement in French I, Honors Algebra 1 & 2, Peoples & World Cultures, Honors Physics, Honors Precalculus, and Visual Art I; Certificate of Participation in AMC 10, AMC 12, and Math Team. Jimmy plans to study Computer Science at the University of Maine.
Xiaolan Catherine Zhou, of Guangdong, China , son of Yushun Zhou Li Liu, received the Honor Roll Award and Certification of Participation in AMC 12.
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