“There is nothing more beautiful than a person who goes out of their way to make life beautiful for others.” -Mandy Hale
“When I saw this quote, I immediately thought of Duda. Ever since they day she stepped onto our campus, she has shown, through her words and her actions, that she lives her life with kindness, integrity, and compassion. Her gentle spirit, and lovely nature are evident, and she glows with a warmth that makes all who sit with her at ease.”
“Sereina is a kind and thoughtful young lady, always considering the well-being of others. Guided by her Jamaican roots, she is determined to succeed, even if she doesn’t yet see the strength she holds. One day, she will be a woman of great influence.”
“Enzo’s journey through school is a testament to his drive, authenticity, and love for learning, especially in botany and science. Like the plants he studies, he will continue to grow and thrive. His passion for nature has made him an invaluable volunteer at the Enchanted Forest. Enzo, I will miss our enlightening lunchtime conversations and everything I have learned from you.”
“Ella, your leadership, dedication, and heart have left an unforgettable mark on our community. As President of the Italian Honor Society, you have led with vision, kindness, and the ability to uplift those around you. Your love for service, strong family values, and unwavering work ethic set you apart and will continue to guide you toward an extraordinary future. You are already shaping a path of success, and I have no doubt that incredible things await you. Keep believing in yourself and shining your light—your journey is just beginning!”
“Santiago is the quiet observer whose words carry tremendous weight. His deep curiosity and thoughtful insights light the way for others, reflecting a respectful and kind spirit. Diplomatically, he navigates every moment with poise—proving that true brilliance often speaks softly, yet leaves a lasting impact.”
“Jose is one of the most creative musical artists I have met. Jose has been honing his craft as a beat producer for many years. I am excited to see what Serumm produces in the future. I know he will leave his mark on the musical world.”
“Alessandro, with your pluricultural background, endless bonne humeur, and vibrant joie de vivre, you’ve embraced life in every language you speak. May French continue to follow you everywhere you go, just as your passion for life and culture does. Bravo for all that you’ve achieved, and may your journey be as inspiring as you are.”
“From the moment I met Charlie, I could tell he was a great kid. He shows a sincere interest in others and makes everyone feel like they’re an old friend. He’s the kind of person you feel like you’ve known for ages even though you just met. He approaches every day with a smile and a desire to learn more about the world. A supportive friend, a curious student, and a Cougar through and through, Charlie will be sorely missed by our Cushman family.”
“Felipe, your growth over the past four years has been nothing short of inspiring. Your leadership, inclusivity, and willingness to go above and beyond for others have left a lasting impression on all of us. Your dedication and perseverance are truly remarkable, and your ability to bring life and fun into the classroom is one of a kind. You will truly be missed and we hope you come back to visit.”
“Although she joined us recently, Hanna has embraced the Cushman philosophy, approaching each task with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to grow. Her cheerful outlook and dedication to learning make her a joy to teach.”
“Matteo’s smile can turn any hard day around, just like his kindness and quick wit brighten every room. A force on the soccer field and in the classroom, he welcomes everyone into his circle with warmth and generosity. Matteo, you are an incredible young man and I look forward to seeing all your future success!”
“Ale has such a contagious smile and sense of humor that made every day in our English class so much brighter. His charisma and energy are one of a kind and he has a way of bringing people together with laughter. I enjoyed being his teacher and listening to all of his insights and contributions to our classroom discussions. I’m going to miss his humor, his mischievous attitude, and his upbeat personality. I’m excited to see all the amazing things he’ll do in the future and I hope that he will come back and update me on his many adventures.”
“Sudan is extraordinary in everything she does. She is incredibly intellectual, has the grace of a queen, and is a natural leader. I expect nothing but greatness from this amazing young lady, and cannot wait to hear about Senator or Ambassador Eubanks in the future. Whatever she chooses, one thing I know for certain: Sudan will handle that position with poise. The world is in your hands baby girl!”
“Evan has always had an inquisitive mind, which drives who he is. A big thinker and problem solver, Evan will use his mind and tenacity to help articulate the indescribable, ask the questions that need asking, and do his job to solve the problems that need solving.”
“Daniel is a truly remarkable student—resilient, honest, and consistently respectful. He approaches every challenge with determination and grace, embodying the qualities of both a thoughtful learner and a dependable individual. Not only is Daniel book smart, but he also possesses a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to excellence. Time and time again, he has shown me—as his teacher—that with perseverance and heart, nothing is impossible under the sun. His quiet strength, curiosity, and positive attitude make him a joy to teach, and I have no doubt that he will continue to thrive and inspire wherever life takes him.”
“Gabriel is never the loudest in the room but is well-mannered, focused, and responsible. On the field, he is a great teammate and an integral part of the team. He shows compassion through his work with dogs and how he treats all his classmates, ensuring he is always inclusive in all interactions. His commitment to various environmental projects shows his dedication and determination to create change. Gabriel has a good heart, a sharp mind, and has a wide-open future.”
“Eugenio is a naturally quiet student who has a talent for being as quiet as a mouse. However, when he has something to say, it is not only insightful, but also connects with everyone in the room. Eugenio’s mind tends to work faster than the computers he uses at hack-a-tons and his smile, like the screen, lights up the room. I have no doubt that whatever Eugenio decides to do in his future, he will excel in and “wow” us all!”
“Zander’s wit and sense of humor brightens my day, every day. Zander is unapologetically himself: whether it’s his daily choice of fun socks, his encyclopedic knowledge of films, or dancing with no care of who’s watching, Zander is unique in everything he does. Zander: I have so much admiration for your character, your incredible personality will be part of what makes you successful in everything you attempt. Reach for the stars!”
“It has been a treat teaching Yeshai during my first year at Cushman. I previously taught Yeshai in private lessons, and it has been particularly rewarding to see him continue to grow in his piano playing in such a short amount of time! Yeshai is gifted with an excellent musical ear. I will miss teaching him, and I hope that music remains a constant in his life.”
“Holland may have only joined our school in her junior year, but it feels like she’s been here forever. I had the pleasure of being her English teacher for both her junior and senior years. She’s a hard worker who is incredibly motivated, always putting her best into everything she does, and (my favorite thing about her) she’s hilarious! I always look forward to our classes together because I know we’ll laugh at least once. Holland has truly added so much to our school and I’ll miss her energy and humor so much next year. Wishing you all the best, Holland! You’re going to do amazing things!”
“When I met Lucas in his junior year, he was already an accomplished musician. It was a privilege having him in my band class. He is a quiet, fun-loving young man, a silent but strong leader, one who understands the importance of playing a supporting role in the rhythm section of his band, but is not afraid to shine in his moment and take the lead when necessary. I know Lucas’s musical journey will be an amazing one!”
“I’ve known Ryan since he was in sixth grade and am so proud of his development and achievements through the years. Ryan is incredibly polite, hardworking, and dedicated, both in and out of school. His love of sailing earned him a full scholarship to Bowdoin, and I cannot wait to see him flourish in college! Ryan, always remember this, “A man is never lost at sea.” Ernest Hemingway”
“Jalen, your intelligence, kindness, and unwavering integrity make you a truly remarkable person. Over these past four years, you have shown the kind of character that leaves a lasting impact. The world is lucky to have someone like you, never stop believing in yourself, chasing your dreams, and sharing your light. Your future is bright, and I have no doubt that success and happiness await you. Keep shining!”
“David, you are one of the most self-reliant, disciplined, balanced, and mature students I have ever met. I truly admire how respectful you are to others; and how accountable, honest, and reflective you are with yourself. In addition to these extraordinary character traits, you are also funny, silly, light-hearted, friendly, and kind. These unique traits will carry you far in whatever path you choose. It is bittersweet to say farewell as I will miss hearing your latest funny and entertaining stories about Keanu or your car; but I know that you will be tremendously successful as you savor each day, making the most of each challenge, each relationship, and each opportunity. Wishing you the very best as you continue to make a positive impact in the world around you.”
“Quiet by nature but fierce in determination, Lily’s heart of gold shines through in everything she does. Her passion and perseverance push her to achieve any goal she sets. Whatever she pursues, she will do it with strength and purpose. Lily it has been an absolute pleasure these past few years and I will truly miss you! I know you will achieve greatness next year at SMU and look forward to you coming back to visit!”
“Soft-spoken but never unnoticed, Gaby has grown into herself with quiet determination while embracing her interests. I’m so proud of her journey and can’t wait to see where her passions take her next!”
“It is rare for me to meet a student who embodies all of the ideals I expect a student to demonstrate. Victoria is one of the few students to accomplish that feat. She is kind, polite, focused, brilliant and quite gifted. However, her most admirable trait to me is her courage.
Nelson Mandela famously stated, “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear”. Vicki has suffered from performance anxiety in her past. Yet, she repeatedly chose to rise to the occasion to perform as a pianist and accompanist at different performances, both within and outside of school.
Vicki, your courage is admirable.”
“Lola carries the gentle strength that inspires greatness without ever needing to shout. Her heart and spirit quietly ignite those around her, and her spark will light the way for all who are lucky enough to follow.”
“Quinn is one of those rare people who combines authenticity, intelligence, and charisma in a way that’s impossible to miss. It’s obvious he’s ready for life, and he has everything it takes to succeed. Watching him grow into the person he is today has been such a joy—he’s stayed curious, kind, and generous, always sharing his talent and depth through music. I’m definitely going to miss seeing him in class, but I can’t wait to see all the amazing things he’s going to do.”
“Arielle’s radiant smile lights up the room whenever she enters. Her strong work ethic and inquisitive mind always keeps me inspired and eager to hear her next insightful question or entertaining topic of conversation. Her positive outlook on life is inspiring as she always sees the glass half full. I’m excited to discover what the future holds for her!”
“Jonas is a brilliant mind who knows how to navigate any situation—sometimes too well. While he enjoys taking his time, his potential is undeniable, and one day, he will fully embrace it and shine. Saint Barth will always be a special French connection for him, and when that day comes, his French will be flawless.”
“Zach, I have truly enjoyed witnessing the growth and transformation you have exhibited this year as a senior. The confidence, insightful perspectives, perseverance, and balance you have developed in such a short time is remarkable. Keep caring, keep reflecting, keep choosing the be the best version of you, and never stop believing in yourself. Wishing you the best as you begin your next adventure.”
“Dino’s academic success is a testament to his consistent drive. Yet, it’s his dependability and his heart for working with younger students that truly set him apart. As a dedicated volunteer, he embodies true leadership by uplifting others, always with his infectious smile. Dino, thank you for all the laughs. I will always think of you as I strive to ‘Stay Balanced’ and ‘Sunny Side Up!'”
“Ever since I met Tristan in the seventh grade during our sports elective, I knew he was destined to accomplish whatever he set his mind to. With his can-do attitude, Tristan pushes himself beyond his comfort zone and consistently succeeds. Watching you grow into the young man you are today has been such a rewarding experience. I hope you always carry with you the memories from our sports elective and all the great moments you’ve created here at Cushman. I’m excited to see all the incredible things you’ll achieve in the future!”
“Antonella is an outstanding, poised young woman who has a passion for STEM. Throughout her high school experience, I could always count on Anto to have a happy attitude no matter the circumstances. She is one of those students that is a quiet leader, and her peers really look up to. I saw her true passion come alive last year when she wrote her AP Research paper on encouraging young girls to get involved with STEM through the use of Lego’s. With that project, came a real life club at school, and I know her legacy will continue to inspire young girls to get into the STEM field. I look forward to her continuing to break through those glass ceilings!”
“You change the world by being yourself.” – Yoko Ono
“This quote always brings me back to Brittany. From the moment she walked into my study hall class during her Junior year, she brought a sense of joy and positivity to the room. Brittany, you greet everyone with a smile and a warmth that makes everyone feel welcome. Keep letting your light shine wherever you go; the world needs more of it. Don’t let anything dim your brightness as you push forward to make your dreams come true. Your kind smile and thoughtful greetings will be greatly missed here at Cushman. Wishing you all the best in the amazing things ahead!”
“Marina is a creative force! She pours so much dedication into her art with a depth and sensitivity that sets her apart. She is simply the coolest, embodying a rare kind individuality, that doesn’t seek attention but earns admiration through her dedication, passion, and authenticity. ”
“Nicole, as we know her, is a very respectful and disciplined young woman. Her journey from her home country to the United States during high school was filled with challenges, but with resilience and heart, she made Miami her home. She transitioned beautifully to Cushman and quickly became integral to our school family. Nicole showed up with kindness, stayed true to who she was, and made people feel like they mattered. That’s what we’ll remember most. I look forward to seeing all her accomplishments as she sets her eyes on making the world a little more beautiful through architecture and design.”
“Greg is a remarkable young man overflowing with kindness and love. His life is a testament to the power of resilience and faith, as he has faced and conquered numerous challenges with his motto, ‘Just do it. ‘ His perseverance and dedication inspire those who know him, and his always-ready smile brings joy to all those around him. Greg, please arrive for your appointments on time, remember to “just submit,” and always stay true to yourself.”
“Bella, your kindness and calming presence make you a joy to have in any classroom. You have a way of making those around you feel valued and at ease. Your unique style and expressive taste are a true reflection of your artistic spirit; effortlessly creative and entirely your own. I’ve loved watching you grow over the past two years, and I have no doubt you’ll continue to shine. Wherever life takes you, I hope you always embrace your artistry, your warmth, and, of course, your flawless sense of style!”
“Javi, you hold a special place in my heart for your caring nature and incredible ability to bring others together. You’ve grown into a mature young man, ready to take on whatever comes your way. I will never forget the surprise party you threw for me in Algebra 1 or how you would email Dr. B to swing by on test days for an extra +5! Whether on the basketball court, catching passes on the football field, or showing up early for extra help sessions, your commitment and dedication have always stood out. You truly exemplify the Cushman philosophy, and I know you’ll be back—just make sure Room 304 is your first stop!”
“Jasmin is sure to make her mark in the world. Her approach to learning and collaboration is the epitome of the Ruth Bader Ginsburg adage, “Fight for the things you care about. But do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” Jasmin, we can’t wait to see all the things you accomplish. Thank you for consistently raising the bar and encouraging your peers to do the same!”
“Being able to pick up a car with two fingers and hurl it across the county is not Mikhail’s only talent. He’s got a great sense of humor, and he’s extremely intelligent. I had the opportunity to teach Mikhail last year in my AP Psychology class. Right away, I noticed that he was willing to put in the hard work to succeed and exhibited natural talent with critical thinking and application skills. He was kind to all of his peers. He knew when it was time to be serious, and when it was ok to have fun. And, not a day went by that he did not hold the door open for me as we left the classroom. Mikhail, you have the world at your fingertips! Keep being YOU!”
“Adolfo has been a true pleasure to work with and see grow over the years. His fervor for learning, experimenting, and building something bigger than himself has been evident since day one. Adolfo will build the blocks that lay the foundation for the future.”
“Yaeli, it has been an incredible privilege to have you in my Italian classes for the past four years. You are an amazing young woman, filled with passion, talent, and an unwavering dedication to what you believe in. Watching you grow has been a journey that has brought me so much joy, inspiration, and admiration. Your energy, determination, and unique spirit make you truly one of a kind. Now, it’s your time to step into the world and share your gifts—there is no doubt you will make a lasting impact. Keep believing in yourself and embracing every opportunity with the same heart and enthusiasm that make you so special. I am so proud of you!”
“Danielle’s energy and smile have always lit up every room she entered. With a go-getter attitude and a heart full of ambition, she’s inspired those around her to reach for their dreams. A true friend who always lifted others up, Danielle’s positivity and drive will continue to shine brightly wherever she goes. The future is hers to conquer!”
“Derek is a mighty presence. He always speaks his mind, whether or not he has thought about it thoroughly. His refreshing insights are those that lead group discussions into different territories: ones where we might not have ventured into if it weren’t for him. For this reason, I know that whatever Derek decides to accomplish in his future endeavors, he will do it loud, proud, and leading the conversation!”
“Carter, it has been an absolute honor to witness your journey over these past four years. You are a young man of integrity, strength, and limitless potential. The values you’ve embraced, both from our community and your family, will be your guiding light as you step into the world. Stay true to your passions, believe in yourself, and work hard, for there are no limits to what you can achieve. This is your moment—go shine!”
“It has been a privilege to witness Maya’s artistic and personal growth throughout high school. She has consistently demonstrated resilience, maturity, and a deep commitment to her craft. As she begins her next chapter at Parsons, I am confident she will excel and make a meaningful impact in New York City!”
“Ava radiates a glow that can light up any room with giggles that match her sparkle. Her passion for learning knows no bounds, as she approaches every challenge with both determination and wit, always searching for ways to grow. And it is with those gifts that she will continue to shape the world in ways only she can.”
“Nico is an incredible young man who never ceases to amaze me. His intelligent sense of humor has lightened my days. His ability to convey himself through writing is a gift; reading his work has been an honor and privilege. His attention to detail and passion make him the perfect candidate to restore antique pieces to their original beauty. Nico, thank you for allowing me to help you with your portfolio. Seeing your work has been educational and very entertaining.”
“Jayla’s transformation from stage manager to leading lady in our theater department mirrors her metamorphosis from observant freshman to a leader in the senior class. Her resolve to leave her school community more welcoming and inclusive for the next generation has strengthened our school. She leaves us with the conviction that once she sets her mind to something, she will see it through to her full capacity. I hope the world is ready.”
“Phillip is an extraordinary person. His competitive spirit coupled with his cheerful attitude and overall kindness truly make him one of a kind. I cannot wait to see where life takes Phillip and will always recall our flag football days fondly!”
“Nicolas Younes is a force to be reckoned with. His work ethic and drive is unparalleled. His perfectionism defines who he is. He can handle multiple tasks with complete determination and never shies away from a challenge. Nicolas does not leave a task unfinished and is completely comfortable questioning anything he does not understand or disagrees with. All of these qualities will lead to a very successful young man. Despite working with Nicolas harder than I’ve ever done I can happily say: working with you has been una chimba!”
