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The King’s Academy community gathered in Refectory Square on Tuesday, May 20 to honor the graduating Class of 2025 at the Sixteenth Annual Senior Dinner. A beloved end-of-year tradition held on the eve of the Commencement ceremony, the Senior Dinner celebrated seniors and their families in an evening filled with pride, reflection, and joy.
The evening began with a warm welcome from the Head of School, Mrs. Penny Townsend, who reflected on the significance of the moment and the strength of the graduating class. In her address, she spoke of the Class of 2025’s resilience and vibrancy, calling them “a class that has led with heart and courage, a class that has challenged norms while holding fast to values.” Mrs. Townsend reminded the seniors of the enduring bonds of the King’s community and left them with a parting message: “The world is vast, but you are ready for it. And wherever you go, remember that you are, and always will be, a part of King’s.”
The program continued with a farewell musical performance by members of the senior class and a multilingual greeting delivered by seniors in Arabic, Chinese, French, and Spanish-reflecting school’s value of global citizenship, one of its five pillars.
After a festive meal prepared by King’s dining hall staff and served by members of the junior class, the evening continued with the valedictory address. This year, Ms. Laila Shawwa, who has taught for 10 years in the CRLA-English department, was selected by the Class of 2025 to deliver the speech. With her signature mix of humor and heart, Ms. Shawwa recounted shared memories from dorm life, hallway chats, and classroom conversations. She encouraged students to carry their fiery spirit into the future: “Challenge the system—but do it with kindness. Do it with intention.”
The evening also featured the presentation of Commencement and Departmental Awards, honoring academic achievement, leadership, creativity, and character. Representatives from the King’s Academy Alumni Association received the Senior Gift, marking the graduates’ transition into lifelong membership in the alumni community.