Artists of the Month
Maddie Goodwin '25
Maddie worked incredibly hard in rehearsals for "Seussical" this winter, and she confidently took on any challenge I threw her way. Backstage she flew through costume changes and appeared as, among others, The Sour Kangaroo, a Who, a bird girl, a hunter, a circus performer ... I could go on. Not only was she a brilliant actor, but she also usually knew the choreography better than I did, and I choreographed the show! She is an excellent performer and I am so proud of all the hard work she put into our show.
- Mr. Rafala
Beren Harman '24
Beren is a prefect, an athlete, an artist and a student of academic excellence who received an early admission decision and has accepted a spot at Fordham University for Fall '25. As a dancer, Beren possesses a blend of technical skill and an innate sense of expression and grace which combine to create true artistry in dance.
- Mrs. Davis
Estela Portero Basco ’25
Photography
Estela is currently completing Advanced Darkroom Photography. In this class, she has applied all the concepts and techniques into her photography. The image you see is from a film camera, which she learned how to use manually, developed the film and printed onto silver coated paper - all in a traditional darkroom. Estela worked hard and consistently throughout the trimester, not afraid of taking risks, and finding the balance between technique and creativity.
Judith Klemann ’25
Ceramics
Judith was awarded the Artist of the Month for her outstanding work in Ceramics. Judith is consistent in her approach to projects with a high level of finish and personal expression. She spends many of her free periods improving her work and researching other ceramicists. Judith is a good student example of disciplined self-improvement and growth.
Seungmin “Eric” Lee ’24
Eric has had an awesome year so far. He's worked very hard in Mr. Bloomfield's AP 3D Design, Basic Darkroom Photography and Advanced Darkroom Photography this year - earning A grades throughout. Most recently, Eric was accepted at Parsons School of Design to study Fashion, where designers like Tom Ford and Marc Jacobs studied.
Elisa Bianchi ’24
In addition to academic excellence, Elisa has displayed excellence in artistry in the Dance Program as well. She shows grace and elegance alongside hard work, focus and dedication. She is always ready to try new dance styles and eager to increase her skill through practice. Equally impressive is Elisa's support and encouragement of her Dance Team and her friends.
Sally Geoghegan '24
"Sally has performed with Academy Players since Grade 6. Sally is one of the most talented actors I have worked with. Her stage presence and ability to create a character are nonpareil.
Throughout our rehearsals and productions of "Clue," Sally was a model for her cast. There was never a moment that she was out of character. Sally constantly impresses me with her talent and I cannot wait to see what her future holds."
- Ms. Casey, Director of "Clue" and Faculty, English.
Xuanyi "Yolanda" Chen '23
Multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Xuanyi "Yolanda" Chen '25 has been an important part of the music program at WMA for four years. Yolanda is an active member of the WMA Chorus, Jazz Band and the student leader of the “Afternoon Band.” Starting on the piano at age 5, she progressed through several instruments including the accordion. She is also a strong singer and has recently started studying composition, where she is writing and arranging original pieces. Yolanda is a very talented musician and contributes to our musical community by being a strong presence and a leader.