Every year, the top 10 percent of the junior and senior class are inducted into the prestigious Cum Laude Society. “Chapters like Laguna Blanca choose to induct students who have demonstrated good character, honor, and integrity in all aspects of their school lives, while still prioritizing academic excellence as is aligned with the original purpose of the Society,” said Head of School Ron Cino.
As president and founder of the Wellness Promotion Project, theater arts enthusiast and performer, environmental and computer science devotee, and exemplar academic, junior Brandon Fuladi is a standout student whose diverse interests demonstrate his steadfast academic performance and multifaceted nature. “Brandon is bright, funny, and outgoing,” junior Amelia Noble said.
“His unwavering enthusiasm always brightens a room—whether that be in class, in the theater, or outside of school altogether.” Future famous physicist, junior Asher Gottesdeiner is a brilliant student who, like his peers, is more complex than meets the eye. Both an entertaining actor and a dedicated intellect, Asher takes advantage of every opportunity that comes his way to expand both his knowledge and character. “Asher is one of the hardest-working, kindest, and most joyful people you will ever meet,” junior William Wei said.“His joyful aura always makes you smile once you see him.”
An astoundingly impressive swimmer with an awe-inspiring intellect, junior Bennett Sullivan is a perfect example of the combination of a star athlete and star student. Hoping to pursue a career in quantitative finance, he will make a difference in the world via whatever path he chooses. “Since his first day at Laguna, Bennett has been a guy that deserves the utmost respect,” junior Brady Clifford said. “Not only is he one smart cookie, but he’s funny, charismatic, kind, and a true gem of a friend.”
Leading performer at Lights Up! Theater Company, varsity volleyball player, and STEM prodigy, junior Teddy Wilson is the definition of a well-rounded student. Determined to pursue a career in engineering, Teddy is prepared to make scientific advances as he experiments with the world around him. “Anyone who has met Teddy would agree that he is impossible not to get along with,” junior Aaron Kamps said.
“He can seemingly combine intelligence and humor in any and all conversations and brings an incredible energy to a group you wish was always there.” From volunteering at Hillside House to working at Alessia Patisserie to experimenting on the piano to fostering thoughtful classroom environments, senior Sydney Fisher is an exceptional individual with a bright future. With dreams of becoming an OB/GYN to provide compassionate care to women, Sydney is guaranteed to create a lasting impact in the world around her. “Sydney is extremely dedicated and driven, yet she is always able to balance working hard and having fun,” senior Tallulah Staeger said.
“She is passionate about the things she cares about in both school and life, and will do great in life.” Founder of the Inner Child Expression Club, phenomenal journalistic writer, and considerate employee at Rori’s, senior Milla Hirsch deeply cares about her community, the humanities, and the impact she makes in the world. Her sincere compassion and unwavering determination are bound to take her far in life and touch others’ hearts.
“Milla is a loyal friend, a hard working student, and a creative thinker who looks at the world openly,” senior Olivia de Ponce said. “I am so grateful for our 13 years of friendship!” With remarkable integrity and a commitment to learning that motivates him to approach life with a discerning, analytical mindset, senior Davis Ohanian is an honorable student who never fails to amaze. On a path to majoring in Economics at the University of Chicago, Davis’ ambition will undoubtedly lead him to success no matter where he ends up. “Davis is a long-term friend I can always count on, laugh with, and truly trust,” senior Rio Valle said.
“He is determined, kind, and really tall, and I look forward to supporting him throughout each of his endeavors.” There is no better combination of creativity, imagination, intelligence, and confidence in a person than in senior Ada Ray. Talented singer-songwriter, hard-working student, future chemist, and loyal friend, Ada is sure to achieve many more remarkable accomplishments in her life.
“Ada is exceptionally creative and passionate in her pursuits, whether that be through school, work, music, art, and her friendships, she cares deeply and loudly,” Milla said. “I admire her loyalty, her ability to stand up for herself, and her dedication to achieving her goals.” Congratulations to all the remarkable inductees of the Cum Laude Society! Every member of the community is looking forward to seeing the impact they will make in the world around them each and every day.
