Madeira Celebrates Commencement on June 6, Awards 88 Diplomas

Commencement Speaker Courtenay Valenti '81 addresses the Class of 2026

McLean, VA - On Saturday, June 6, Madeira awarded 88 diplomas to the Class of 2026 during Commencement exercises held in the School’s Amphitheater.
Following the traditional processional carrying bouquets of 13 red roses, a tribute to the 13 boarding students in Madeira’s first class, Nina Samala ‘26 delivered a Moment of Reflection, welcoming families and friends to the ceremony and reflecting on the significance of the day. “For the next few hours, I know that this humid Virginian air will hold still, allowing us to look upon both sides and celebrate our pasts and our futures,” said Samala.

Board of Trustees Chair Carrie Southworth Johnson ’95 welcomed graduates and guests, reflecting on the traditions that connect generations of Madeira students. She spoke about the meaning behind the 13 roses, the annual turning of class rings, and Madeira’s unofficial motto, “Function in Disaster. Finish in Style. Remain Calm at the Center of Your Being.” “Traditions matter because they remind us of who we are,” Johnson said. “They carry forward the values and habits that define a community long after any one class has graduated.” Johnson also encouraged graduates to embrace the uniquely human qualities that define a Madeira education, including wisdom, judgment, courage, curiosity, and kindness.

Student speaker Moji Rufai ’26, elected by her classmates, reflected on the experiences that shaped the Class of 2026. Drawing inspiration from the musical Hamilton, she spoke about perseverance, personal growth, and seizing opportunities. “As you leave here today, we do have control over the marks we leave behind,” Rufai said. “Wherever life takes you next, college, careers, or paths still unknown, leave a footprint, or a snail trail. Leave proof that you were there, and make it one worth remembering.”

Head of School Christina Kyong reflected on the School’s theme for the year, THRIVE, and the enduring importance of Madeira’s philosophy of “personal best”.
“Personal Best has never asked you to be perfect,” Kyong said. “What it asks instead is something far more courageous: to be yourself, to know yourself well enough, and to grow yourself honestly.” Kyong reminded graduates that thriving comes through challenge, resilience, and continued growth. She encouraged students to remain true to themselves as they enter a world that often prioritizes performance and perfection.

“As you leave Madeira, the world you are entering will ask you to perform, to produce, and to prove yourself quickly,” she said. “What this world needs from you is your voice, your compassion, your authenticity and your kindness.”

Senior Kay Taylor Winthrop ’26 introduced commencement speaker Courtenay Valenti ’81, a renowned film executive whose career has included leadership roles on acclaimed films such as Barbie, Elvis, Harry Potter, The LEGO Movie, and The Color Purple. Valenti reflected on the profound influence Madeira had on her life and career, sharing lessons learned over nearly four decades in the film industry. She encouraged graduates to view failure as a valuable teacher, embrace curiosity, and remain open to new opportunities. “Your biggest and most impactful learning moments are connected to your failure,” Valenti said. “Without it, there is no lasting success, growth, or achievement.” Valenti urged graduates to explore new paths, cultivate expertise, ask questions, and seek out mentors who inspire them. “The road ahead is so exciting,” she said. “There is so much to learn, question, challenge, and create. Be bold. Live your lives with purpose and intention.”

The ceremony concluded with the conferral of diplomas to the 88 graduates of the Class of 2026. As graduates turned their class rings outward, symbolically sharing the light of their learning with the world, they joined generations of Madeira alums who continue to carry forward the School’s traditions, values, and spirit.
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About The Madeira School   
Founded in 1906, The Madeira School is a leading girls’ college preparatory and boarding school dedicated to its mission of launching women who change the world. Madeira educates students from grades 9-12 on its 376-acre campus, just 10 miles from Washington, D.C., and boasts a student body that comes from 22 states and 43 countries, as well as a proud network of over 6,000 alums. Madeira’s nationally recognized Co-Curriculum experiential learning program provides internships similar to those offered by colleges. Over their four years, Madeira students build distinguished resumes. The ambitious academic program promotes a joyful journey of self-discovery. Madeira’s students gain confidence, courage, and real-world experience so they can thrive in an ever-evolving future. 

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