New chapters was a theme at Storm King School commencement
Many similarities can be drawn between the speakers and the 49 Storm King School students who graduated on Saturday. Outgoing and incoming headmasters Jonathan Lamb and Lisa Shambaugh both likened the next chapters in their lives to that of those wearing the caps and gowns.
Lamb’s retirement marks the end of a 42-year career in education at three different boarding schools. He came to Storm King School in 2015 and served the last nine years as headmaster. He and his wife are about to start a new adventure, much like the students who will be starting college in the fall en route to promising careers in the field of their choosing. Lamb recognized the emotions the graduates were feeling as he shared the same feelings.
“The same paradox of emotions you may be feeling is what we’re feeling,” he said. “We are eager to get on to the new quest, but reluctant to leave what we know so well. In a letter to a friend, in 1856, after moving to a new house, and feeling displaced and lost because of it, Emily Dickinson wrote, ‘I am out with lanterns looking for myself.’”
The headmaster noted there is a feeling of joy connected with graduating and excitement about the new path that lies ahead for them all. Along with that, however, is uncertainty.
“We know who we are in the place we have been, but, as Dickinson suggests, we need to shine a light to find ourselves in that new place we are going. When you take your first steps into this new adventure there will be questions and anxiety. As you travel beyond this moment and place, know that the community of family and friends that got you to this moment will continue to support your journey. When you move into your next communities, look to build new connections – seek new guides, friends, and mentors. Be intentional about building community wherever you go; it will serve you well. Also, know that you can offer that same support to others. The networks of people who care for you, new and old, are part of the light that will help you find your way.”
As Shambaugh prepared her commencement speech, she thought about the literal meaning of the word which not only marks the granting of degrees, but the beginning of a new chapter, not the end.
“I, too, am at a crossroads, as I am about to officially commence my time here at The Storm King School as your next head of school,” she said. I’m excited, I’m eager to be here, and I admit to feeling some nervousness at the thought of taking on this new role and joining a new community. You may be sharing some of those feelings yourself, thinking about this next stage of your life.”
Before handing out awards and diplomas, Lamb took a moment to recognize Denise Sollami, who had been integral to the school’s operation as the registrar and later as executive assistant to the headmaster. She began working at the school in the summer of 1999 and retired following a 25-year career.
Awards
Storm King Scholar Award: Vincent Iannuzzi-Sucich, Caroline Cunningham, Madison Bishop
The Riley Cup: Students Madeline Devine and Jasper Lok Fung Lung and teachers Jeanette Jacobson and Ray Hecht
The Spy Rock Cup: Annie Cosgriff
The Headmaster’s Cup: Marisa Chapman
The Storm King Cup: Ke Xu
