Bravo to Poly’s talented performing and visual arts students! 

The 2025 Arts Awards were presented during the culminating arts events of the 2024-25 school year. We are so proud to celebrate the achievements, commitments, and growth of the following students whose contributions have produced artwork and performances of the highest caliber. Each of these students is commendable not only for their stellar contributions to PolyARTS, but also for being the mentors and creative leaders they are, generous in spirit as they are talented in their respective craft.

VISUAL ARTS AWARDS

Ceramics

• Jane Littleton ’25

The Ceramics Award honors a senior that has demonstrated a love for and dedication to the art of ceramics. Jane Littleton ’25 is exceptionally skilled in building and/or crafting sculptural details and developing conceptual thinking into cohesive, thoughtful, and beautiful artworks with structural integrity. Their artworks push creative limits into imaginative, innovative, and personal realms.

From their start in Grade 7, Littleton has shown remarkable talent and passion for ceramics. Since Grade 10, they have focused on sculpting—a path that led to a prestigious Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Gold Key award. Known for thoughtful planning, glaze, testing, and creative vision, Littleton consistently pushes the boundaries of ceramic art. As a dedicated and thoughtful leader of the Ceramics Club, they have helped to build a supportive and inspiring community for young artists at Poly. It has been an absolute privilege to watch Littleton’s growth as both an artist and a leader. Congratulations to this year’s Ceramics Award winner, Jane Littleton ’25!

Drawing and Painting 

• Ashi Malhotra ’25
• Selena Wu ’25

Poly’s Drawing and Painting Award honors a Grade 12 student (or students) who demonstrates a great commitment to furthering their education in drawing and painting. These students move beyond the literal and into the conceptual realm of creating visual language by being inquisitive and exploratory. Experimenting with new artistic skills and strategies furthers these artists’ ability to develop coherent compositions and compelling narratives through a body of two-dimensional artworks. Congratulations, Ashi Malhotra ’25 and Selena Wu ’25.

Photography 

• Jordan James ’25 

The Photography Award honors a student who has demonstrated commitment and creativity in the art of photography. Poly’s sixth annual Award for Excellence in Photography goes to Jordan James ’25 who excels with ease, making each photographic skill their own, striving beyond expectations again and again, inventing ideas not simply as an experiment to be playful, but to achieve an intentional, masterful result, fulfilling their personal artistic vision.

Jordan James is a deeply imaginative and disciplined artist whose work in constructed Photoshop imagery reveals a talent for innovation and storytelling. In a project honoring contemporary photographer Carrie Mae Weems, James drew from personal experiences and refined their vision through multiple drafts, ultimately producing a striking and thoughtful tribute. Known for never rushing an idea, James constantly pursues excellence with intention and care. Their passion for photography ignited the moment they first picked up a film camera. After just one day shooting with a school camera, they eagerly purchased their own, diving headfirst into the world of analog photography. With a natural eye for exposure, light, and composition, James has demonstrated exceptional skill across both digital and film media. Their creative drive and technical mastery make them a standout photographic voice with a vision that promises to travel far.

James embraced film photography with instant passion, diving into the analog process after just one day with a school camera. Their work in film now matches the strength of their digital photography, demonstrating refined skill in exposure, light, and composition. A dedicated and imaginative artist, James also leads by example—uplifting peers and fostering a joyful, collaborative environment. Their creative spirit has left a lasting mark on the Marrus Family Media Lab and Darkroom, where they’ll always be welcome.

PERFORMING ARTS AWARDS

Music Awards 

The Frank R. Hancock Award goes to musicians who have have displayed outstanding levels of dedication, musicianship and progress. Each has made an outstanding contribution to music at Poly Prep—not only within their ensembles, but also the surrounding community. The following students, in each of their disciplines—band, vocals, and orchestra—have consistently displayed high levels of dedication, musicianship, and progress that brought whatever they contributed to new heights. This year’s award winners are:

• Jack Pfeifer ’26 – Orchestra
• Sophia Taylor ’25 – Choral
• Donald Shields ’25 – Choral
• Lowie Giles ’25 – Band/Wind

Jack Pfeifer ’26 has been a dedicated member of the Strings program since Grade 6. They have participated in the Middle School String Ensembles, Upper School and Advanced String Ensembles, and Chamber Music Club. They also participate in the annual New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) festivals, performing for adjudicators and receiving evaluations. Over the years, Jack has shown tremendous improvement both technically and musically on the cello, now playing with ease and expression.

National Music Awards 

National School Choral Award

• Griff Allen ’25
• Ryan Geisler ’25

National School Choral Award is the highest honor for high school choral performers and recognizes the dedication and musical achievement of the top choral students. The recipients are selected based on their exemplary musicianship skills as well as a focus for personal musicianship and ensemble growth. In 2025, we celebrate two singers with this distinction. This year’s National School Choral Award recipients are Griff Allen ’25 and Ryan Geisler ’25.

John Phillip Sousa Award Band

• Aiden Yang ’25

The John Phillip Sousa Award is the pinnacle of achievement in an high school band. Introduced in 1955 to honor the top high school band student, the John Philip Sousa Band Award recognizes superior musicianship and outstanding dedication. It was created with the approval of Helen Sousa Albert and Priscilla Sousa, daughters of the famous composer and bandmaster. Congratulations, Aiden Yang ’25.

National School Orchestra Award

• Jasper Inamoto ’26

The National School Orchestra Award is the highest honor you can bestow upon a member of the Upper School orchestra to recognize excellence in playing, dedication, growth, leadership and contributions to the ensemble. Congratulations, Jasper Inamoto ’26.

Jasper Inamoto ’26 has been a dedicated member of the Strings program since Grade 6 playing double bass. They have continually taken lessons in the Conservatory Program and regularly participate in the annual New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) festivals, performing for adjudicators and receiving evaluations. Throughout Middle and Upper School, Inamoto has performed in Poly’s string ensembles, including the Advanced String Ensemble. In addition to their musical achievements, Inamoto initiated a service learning project with Concerts in Motion, an organization which promotes the healing force of music directly to those who may not be able to access it. Through this organization, they give regular solo performances and has spearheaded two on-campus Zoom concerts, as well as coordinated an upcoming off-campus performance at a senior home with the Upper School String ensemble. Inamoto’s commitment to music and community service is exceptional.

Dance Award 

• Ali Schuman ’25
• Jasper Whiteley ’25

Poly’s Dance Award is awarded to a dancer who has made the most outstanding contribution to dance through a strong sense of professionalism and artistic leadership, while also seeking personal growth and artistic expression. They have consistently demonstrated a high level of artistry and athleticism, and articulate a keen awareness through the dance languages they study and perform. Congratulations, Ali Schuman ’25 and Jasper Whiteley ’25.

Ali Schuman ‘25 has consistently embodied a deep commitment to artistry, professionalism, and expressive movement throughout her time in the program. Their choreography and performances have evolved with striking maturity, each phrase rooted in breath, intention, and a clear artistic vision. Schuman’s ability to channel personal experience into their work has cultivated a performance style that is both vulnerable and powerfully authentic. In the studio and on stage, their presence brings focus, inspiration, and a quiet strength that uplifts others. They have grown into a confident, thoughtful performer who leads with integrity and heart. Schuman’s evolution as a dancer is a reflection of their steady dedication and personal growth through movement.

Jasper Whiteley ‘25 is recognized for their continued artistic growth, unwavering work ethic, and generous spirit within the dance community. Their thoughtful approach to movement and deep musicality elevate each performance, whether in solo work or as part of an ensemble. Whiteley’s ability to inhabit a range of styles and characters—paired with steady technical development—reveals a dancer of great versatility and expressive depth. This year, their performances in both concert dance and musical theater demonstrated grace, strength, and an evolving artistic maturity. Offstage, their collaborative nature and commitment to supporting their peers’ choreographic visions exemplify true leadership. Whiteley leads with quiet confidence, inspiring others through consistency, kindness, and dedication. Their evolution as an artist powerfully embodies the values celebrated by the Dance Award.

Choreography Award 

• Sadie Schoenberger ‘25

The Choreography Award is awarded to a dancer who has made the most outstanding contribution to choreography through perseverance, dedication, and a focus on progress, demonstrating a commitment to realizing the broader artistic vision through creation.

Sadie Schoenberger ‘25 is honored with the 2025 Choreography Award for their exceptional creative vision, leadership, and artistic innovation. As Co-Artistic Director of the Afternoon of Student Choreography, Schoenberger guided their peers with clarity and intention, balancing artistic exploration with a strong sense of purpose. Their choreography over the years has embraced bold abstraction, weaving shape and fluidity into visually dynamic and emotionally resonant works. Schoenberger’s keen compositional instincts and sensitivity to group dynamics reveal a choreographer who listens, adapts, and leads with generosity. 

Beyond the studio, Schoenberger has brought their artistry to film, using their skills as a filmmaker to capture dance in inventive and compelling ways. Their trailers and promotional work for dance and theater have elevated performances, reflecting their talent for visual storytelling and commitment to sharing the arts with the broader community. Schoenberger’s contributions to the Poly Prep dance community—both onstage and behind the camera—have left a lasting impact. Their future in choreography and creative production holds boundless potential.

Walter B. Clark Drama 

• Stavi Gabriel ’25

Walter B. Clark Drama Award is given to the student or students who represent and exemplify an outstanding contribution to and excellence in theater at Poly Prep.

The Walter B. Clark Drama Award is given every year to a senior who truly embodies the spirit of the Poly Prep Theater Department. This individual consistently sets a shining example for their peers without hesitation or complaint, through lending a helping hand during rehearsals, or simply radiating joy with their ever-present smile. From their early days in the Lower School, through their growth in productions during Middle School, and now as a vital member of the Upper School stage, their enthusiasm has been a constant source of inspiration. Even the summers spent in Poly’s Performing Arts camp highlight their enduring passion and commitment to our theatrical community. They don’t just participate; they lead by example, showing us all what it means to be a true cornerstone of the Poly Prep Theater Department. Congratulations, Stavroula Gabriel ’25!

Winder Drama Award

• Annakaecia Clarke ’25

Winder Drama Award, named for David Winder, is presented to the student who has demonstrated exceptional and sustained dedication to the theater program, particularly in technical theatre and design.

The 2025 winner of the Winder Drama Award consistently showcases what it means to be an artist, both on stage and off. They can often be found backstage, learning the ins and outs of stage design and calling shows over headset, or up in the booth running sound and enhancing the theatrical atmosphere with gorgeous lighting, lending a helping hand during rehearsals, or simply radiating joy on stage through dance. This student is a proud member of our Excellence in the Arts program, has taken courses in theater, drama, and music and has been a proud participant in our plays, Coffeehouses, and Step and African Dance teams; sharing their talent and mentorship along the way. None of our productions in the past four years would have been able to occur without their leadership and technical skill—especially the annual Afternoon of Student Choreography in which they brilliantly and thoughtfully designed lights for each piece, including their own Step Team piece. They don’t just participate; they show us all what it means to be a true collaborator of PolyARTS. Congratulations, Annakaecia Clarke ’25. 

Speech & Debate

Speech Award

• Amber Dosik ’25
• Kester Walshe ’25

The Speech Award is given to a Grade 12 student who has achieved competitive success in speech and shown dedication to training future speech competitors. Congratulations to our 2024-25 Speech Award Recipients, Amber Dosik ’25 and Kester Walshe ’25!

Debate Award

• Rani Green ’25
• Eason Yao ’25

The Debate Award is awarded to a senior who has achieved competitive success in debate and shown dedication to training future debaters. Congratulations to our talented debaters, Rani Green ’25 and Eason Yao ’25.

Rani Green ’25 is easily Poly Prep Debate’s longest tenured competitor, representing Poly Prep at tournaments since Grade 6. In so many respects, Green is the heart and soul of the team at tournaments in between rounds. Their diatribes on just about everything from celebrity gossip to reality televisions shows has truly been the lift in spirit that the team often needs. Their humor, demeanor, and desire to ensure every team member feels valued and welcome is something that we’ll always remember and cherish. It is that desire to build community via debate that will be Green’s lasting legacy in the Debate office. They were absolutely instrumental this year in recruiting a plethora of Black and brown students, particularly younger AFAB students, to Debate by personally attesting the liberatory potential of the activity. Our hope is that when Green looks back at the team, they can be proud of what the department has done to promote and preserve Green’s legacy.

Eason Yao ’25 has been a constant staple of the Poly Prep Debate program for the entirety of their Upper School career in a way that’s been entirely selfless. Their diligence, brilliance, and dedication to others on the team is a true revelation of their character. On countless occasions, debaters have scrambled to look for research and evidence that Eason had already produced and shared with everyone. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, the vast majority of those instances were for tournaments that Eason didn’t personally attend himself. That commitment to the team and their classmates will forever be etched into our memory when we think of Eason Yao.

It’s entirely unsurprising that a student of this caliber who genuinely enjoys the process of critical thinking and academia will be attending Stanford. Cardinal nation is incredibly fortunate to have Eason join their student body—it’s incredibly rare for a young, bright mind to have the moral character that outpaces an already impressive academic transcript.

Excellence in the Arts Award

Excellence in the Arts Award honors a student or students from Poly’s Excellence in the Arts program demonstrating a sustained commitment to PolyArts. This award recognizes the challenges of creating work in more than one specific arts discipline and rewards the perseverance, creativity, and determination to develop their craft through a more multidisciplinary arts experience.

• Isabelle Gerling ’25

The first recipient of The Excellence in the Arts Award is Isabelle Gerling ’25. Gerling completed a rigorous course of study with four consecutive years of courses in dance, acting, and concert choir including Advanced Acting, Advanced Concert Choir, Advanced Musical Theater Performance, as well as a costume design elective.

Gerling’s commitment to the arts has always been impressive, taking every opportunity to develop their craft. They have participated in every play and concert possible throughout their Poly experience; Gerling’s beautiful choreography in dance concerts and impressive performances in plays and musicals has delighted audiences.

• Drew Waldman ’25

Drew Waldman ’25 is the second recipient of The Excellence in the Arts Award completing an extensive arts experience with four consecutive years of courses in dance, acting, and concert choir including Advanced Acting, Advanced Concert Choir, an Independent Study in Advanced Musical Theater, as well as a digital photography elective. A fantastic vocalist, Waldman has performed across their Poly years in every play and concert possible, including leading roles in this year’s She Kills Monsters and 9 to 5: The Musical.