Cum Laude Chapel Honors Academic Excellence

Belmont Hill celebrated its annual Cum Laude Chapel, recognizing the academic achievements of several boys throughout the School. Greg Schneider, Ronald M. Druker ’62 Head of School, described the morning as a time when we pause as a community to celebrate the primary importance of academic excellence. “Belmont Hill is fundamentally a place that is committed to providing all of you with the kind of academic preparation you will need to thrive in college and beyond,” Mr. Schneider stated. “Through the continual pursuit of intellectual excellence, we seek to impart our mission of developing young men of character.” (Listing of all academic recognition can be found at the bottom of the page.)

After several of the scholars were recognized for their achievements, Mr. Schneider introduced the featured speaker. Dr. Lee Levison recently retired as Head of School at the Collegiate School for Boys in New York City. Previously, he was Head of School at Kingswood Oxford School for 14 years. Mr. Bradley is a Kingswood Oxford graduate and Mr. Sullivan attended the school during Dr. Levison’s tenure. He was also Dean of Faculty at Nobles, where he was a teacher and coach for Mr. Schneider, who described Dr. Levison as the most important mentor of his life. Dr. Levison paid tribute to both Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Schneider. “Tim Sullivan’s and Greg Schneider’s intellects, curiosity, determination, kindness, integrity, and hearts set a standard for me in my own life and in my expectations of others.”

Dr. Levison opened by reminding the boys that Cum Laude selection is not based solely on grade point average, but citizenship as well. “Your commitment to excellence inspires your classmates and your teachers,” he said. “What you’ve achieved is not only a result of your hard work and dedication but also to the indefatigable support and encouragement of your family and the ardor of your teachers.”

His talk revolved around the lessons learned from the book “The Craftsman,” by Richard Sennett, which had a significant effect on his professional life. He shared some of the principles outlined in the book and urged the boys to consider them carefully.

You can watch the entire Cum Laude Chapel in the video below.

AP Scholars: scored 3 or higher on 3 or more exams

AP Scholar with Honor: scored 3.25 on all exams and scores of 3 or higher on 4 or more exams

AP Scholar w/distinction: granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all exams and 3 or higher on 5 or more exams