Awards Ceremonies - West

Senior and Junior IB Learner Awards

School Spirit Awards

The School Spirit Award is given to two students who, in the opinion of classmates and faculty, contribute to fostering school spirit through their enthusiasm, positive attitude and concern for others both within and beyond the classroom.

The first recipient of the School Spirit Award is a student who brings intellect, creativity, empathy, and joy into every corner of Sturgis.

From the first day of school, she stood out—not because she demanded attention, but because she offered it so generously to others. 

Ms. Ferguson described her as “intellectually hungry, relentlessly curious, and possessed of a warm and caring heart.” She added that - with their shared love of astronomy — “for those of us lucky to be caught in her gravitational pull, this student does not fail to light up and enrich every space in which she is present.” 

As Ms. Botsford put it, this student is “the heart of STAGE” and a fierce supporter of her peers. Her joy is “unrelenting,” her impact unmistakable. She lifts others up, helps people find their confidence, and fosters new friendships.

Ms. Curran shared that this student “keeps an eye out for people who are quiet and might need help to be included.”

Mr. Guptill shared that when he agreed to help a few students launch an Improv Club, he had no idea what it would become—but thanks to this student’s leadership, it blossomed into something extraordinary. He described her as “a kind, open-minded, welcoming soul who will talk your ears off about space, rocks—or even space rocks.” 

In the classroom, this student’s mind is just as radiant. Mr. Hyer shared how she once made “insightful connections between the history of the Industrial Revolution and disciplines like biology and astronomy.”

And finally, Ms. Ward, her advisor, reflected on the journey she’s had the privilege to witness firsthand: watching her grow “from an excited mentee to an amazing role model.” 

Lizzie Foster - Your kindness is steady. Your creativity is fearless. And your joy fills every space you enter. Congratulations Lizzie Foster!

The next recipient of the School Spirit Award is a student who has come to embody the very heart of what it means to be a member of the Sturgis community.

From his very first days in 9th grade English, Ms. Ferguson knew there was something special about him. She wrote, “Whether it was the joy he brought to the class with his enthusiastic participation, being a natural leader and positive role model for his peers, lighting up the stage with a performance, or simply greeting his English teacher with a friendly 'hello,' he never failed to embody the spirit of this School Spirit Award.”

His ability to lift others up with joy, humor, and an unmistakable spark has touched nearly every part of our school. As Ms. Botsford shared, he’s not only a talented actor, but has also played key leadership roles in STAGE, always bringing “passion, humor, and professionalism.” His leadership has helped the program grow stronger, more connected, and more fun.

Ms. Ward noted, that as his Extended Essay advisor, she witnessed firsthand how he embraced the academic spirit of the IB—committing with the same passion and energy he brings to the stage and the school community.

Mr. Pagenkopf described him as someone who “leads from among the group with neverending positive energy,” someone who is always inclusive, respectful, and eager to work with everyone. “He is a tremendous role model and support for our younger students even when he has no obligation to serve in this capacity. Every single member of our school doesn’t just know him, they like him and respect him.”

Ask anyone who’s worked with this student, and they’ll tell you: he doesn’t just walk into a room—he transforms it. Ms. Barrel captured it best when she said, “Who doesn’t love Tate? The room lights up after seeing his mischievous smile, often when he finds something absurd in the mundane.” 

Tate Laurie, you embody what school spirit really means.

Congratulations!

William Sturgis Awards

The William Sturgis Award is given to two 12th grade students who, in the opinion of classmates and faculty, embody the positive attitude and exemplary conduct represented by the Sturgis Code of Conduct and Rules to Live By.  It is considered the most prestigious Sturgis award.

It is an honor to present the first William Sturgis Award to a student whose name has become synonymous with intelligence, compassion, and quiet, unwavering leadership.

As Ms. Barrell said, “She is a force. In everything she does. But, aside from how clearly intelligent and talented she is, there is an ever-present humility to this student.

She leads with grace, and excellence. As Ms. Murphy noted, she “possesses an insatiable curiosity… and approaches challenges with a level-headed perspective, demonstrating wisdom beyond her years.”

Ms. Briggs remarked that this student is “one of the quickest and most adept language learners I have had the pleasure of teaching,” someone who not only asks profound questions but “seamlessly incorporates new ideas and expressions into her profound writing.”

This is a student who, as Ms. Moynihan said, “challenges her teachers for more, and with humility and excellence, inspires those around her to be their best.”

Outside the classroom, her dedication is equally impressive. Her teammates speak not only of her athletic ability, but of the camaraderie and reassurance she brings to every game. As Ms. Briggs saw firsthand on a school service trip, her “enthusiastic zest for learning of any kind” extends far beyond the academic realm. 

Ms. Curran described this student saying: “She approaches everything with her whole heart,” from volleyball, to molecular modeling, to audiology research. And as Mr. Aiken put it, “She has the unique combination of raw intellect, passion, and self-awareness. It is an ideal recipe for success. And to this student, success is about acquiring knowledge—she can't get enough of it, and we cannot get enough of her.”

And in closing, As Ms. Ferguson said, it’s not just this student’s intellect that distinguishes her—it is “her kindness and generosity towards others that round her out and make her well deserving of the William Sturgis Award.”

It is an honor to present the William Sturgis Award to Brodie Gerlach. 

The next recipient of the William Sturgis Award is a student whose presence has left an unforgettable impression on both our faculty and student body—a young man who lifts others with his wit, his kindness, and his unwavering thoughtfulness.

There’s a certain magic in the way he moves through the world. Ms. Barrell said it best when she described this student as someone whose “quick wit is unparalleled, his positivity and humor infectious… He is simply the sweetest soul—always curious about my life, my son, my writing—and isn’t afraid to share his appreciation for those who’ve helped him along the way.”

That deep awareness and sense of gratitude are at the heart of who this student is.

As Ms. Cullinan so eloquently put it, “What makes this student truly remarkable is his ability to observe from the periphery and identify meaningful opportunities to strengthen our school community, always in service of something greater than himself.” She went on to say, “He lives the IB mission every day—not just through his curiosity and thoughtful engagement, but through his remarkable kindness and empathy.”

You may have seen this student’s work in The Zine, where he has elevated student voice through his sharp, witty, and refreshingly bold writing. 

As Ms. Moynihan noted, he “thinks deeply about his work, always seeks feedback, and openly communicates his creative thoughts and humor with others.” 

Ms. Curran said: “He is a bright spot in the school.” She told the story of a recent class that rewatched a freshman-year video project, and the moment this student appeared on screen, the class cheered. Everyone loves Quinn. He’s thoughtful, hardworking, and a true friend to all.

To the set crew of S.T.A.G.E., to Baking Club, to Film Club, to everyone lucky enough to share a classroom, a hallway, or a conversation with him—Quinn has given this community a gift.

Quinn Scofield, you embody the spirit of the William Sturgis Award. 

Congratulations.

Senior and Junior IB Learner Awards Pictures