With immense pride, Noble and Greenough School celebrated the achievements of 129 graduates of the Class of 2026 on May 29.
The day began with the annual graduation Assembly, attended by all students, faculty, and staff, a joyful and poignant final gathering with 11 captivating musical performances. Assembly showcased not only the many talents of the Class of 2026, but their connections with each other, and the way they give of themselves so generously to our community.
Following Assembly, the jubilant soon-to-be graduates processed down to the tent, where School Life Council Co-Presidents Ben Gelber and Sunehri Verma reflected on their class’s growing comfort with uncertainty, sharing that some of the most meaningful Nobles lessons emerge not from having the right answers but from asking questions, collaborating, making mistakes, and taking risks. Their remarks underscored how Nobles prepares graduates to meet the unknown with curiosity, resilience, playfulness, and faith in one another.
Head of School Cathy Hall framed Nobles’ mission and core values as guideposts for life beyond Nobles. She reminded graduating students, “As you leave Nobles, remember that you are not leaving this community behind you…. You are carrying it with you—in how you lead, how you listen, how you laugh, how you show up, and how you make others feel.”
Elected Class I speakers Hailey Rashes and Christian Gonzalez Pena expressed gratitude for the people and experiences that shaped their Nobles journeys. Together, their remarks celebrated the power of curiosity, connection, and courage—from the teachers who modeled lifelong learning to the classmates who offered friendship, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
Chosen by the Class of 2026 to deliver the faculty address, history and social science, and English faculty member Michael Denning offered graduates one final lesson: to expand their sense of obligation and love beyond those they already know. In a speech titled “Homework,” Dr. Denning challenged students to carry Nobles’ values into a divided world by creating trust, connection, and a sense of home for the strangers they will meet. “When we encounter the stranger at Nobles, we greet them with respect, with generosity, and with a curious desire to form human connection and foster belonging,” he shared.
Dr. Hall also presented the Vernon L. Greene Award for Faculty Excellence to Melissa Lyons ’97, middle school director of programming and history and social science faculty.
The celebratory day culminated in the beloved tradition of a faculty and staff receiving line to wish new graduates well as they embark on their next adventures, carrying their curiosity, hope, and kindness to new communities—knowing Nobles will always welcome them back.
View photos, awards, and the ceremony recording.