"No matter the obstacle. No matter the severity of the rapid. No matter the uncertainty of life. It will all work out the way it’s supposed to. Trust the current. Trust the journey. And most importantly, trust yourself, and everything will be okay." - Drew Cabral ’25, Cogswell Medal recipient
In his Commencement address, Drew Cabral ’25 reflected on the lessons learned both in and out of the classroom: the importance of perseverance, the power of relationships, and the courage to move with the current of life, not against it.
That current—sometimes steady, sometimes unpredictable—is where growth happens. It’s where students discover who they are, test their limits, support one another, and become the leaders our world needs.
Faculty member Lynne O’Shaughnessey reminded us in her speech that some of life’s most rewarding moments come from the unplanned, the uncertain, and the brave choices we dare to make.
"Class of 2025, as you leave Berwick and head on to your next chapter, you'll face countless opportunities to take risks. Go out there and be willing to embrace the unknown, take a chance, and remember that life's most rewarding moments often aren’t what you planned."
This year’s Commencement also marked an important milestone in Berwick’s history: the graduation of our very first Matthews Scholar. This moment stands as a powerful testament to what’s possible when access meets opportunity—and when a supportive community invests in the potential of every student. You can learn more about The Bill & Kathryn Matthews Memorial Fund here.
We are proud to officially welcome the Class of 2025 into the Berwick Academy alumni community! You are now part of a network of Berwick graduates who continue to lead with curiosity, creativity, and courage.
Congratulations, Class of 2025—we can’t wait to see what’s next!
Berwick Academy, situated on an 80-acre campus just over one hour north of Boston, serves 520 students, Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 and Postgraduates. Berwick students are from Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and several countries. Deeply committed to its mission of promoting virtue and useful knowledge, Berwick Academy empowers students to be creative and bold. Berwick strives to graduate alumni who shape their own learning, take risks, ask thoughtful questions, and come to understand and celebrate their authentic selves.