Montverde Academy: Class of 2022 unique in every way

Anna Martinez
Communications Manager

The Montverde Academy Class of 2022 is all the sense of the word ‘unique’ in their many accomplishments during their years at the Academy. This class has created leaders that have shown how to think outside themselves and serve others in ways that not all high school seniors show. 

This class is not only remarkable but filled with outstanding fortitude and leadership throughout. From being at the Academy since PreK-4 or arriving just a year ago, the exemplary behavior of these senior students has led their teachers and advisers to be not only saddened by their departure but also proud to have taught them how to continue to excel in life.

“This class truly has a desire to think outside themselves and serve others in any way, shape, or form,” said Mr. David Bernatavitz, dean of the Upper School at Montverde Academy. “I have seen these students grow in so many areas, and I am excited to see them conquer the world after they graduate. I am proud of this class and all they have overcome; it has been challenging, yet empowering.” 

For some, this class has an ‘eclectic’ mix of students that have it all. There are athletes, merit scholars, musicians, actors, artists and so much more, creating a sense of diversity that is not always seen in a senior class. 

“There’s just no specific theme with this class which I think is so special, an eclectic mix if you will,” said Mrs. Kimberly Brauman, associate dean of Upper School at Montverde Academy. 

The students have taken on some exciting challenges in the past two years and have developed specific skills to meet them and achieve success. With COVID-19, the Class of 2020 was not able to graduate in person; however, this class is able to do so, and understand how fortunate they are to have that. 

They also realize the importance of giving back. The Class of 2022 contributed 82,003 total community service hours from June 2018 to May 2022. That is not only impressive, but also a huge achievement for all of them.

This senior class was able to enjoy celebrating each other in person at our annual Montverde Academy Invitational Tournament (MAIT) and the GEICO High School Nationals, where our senior athletes led our boys and girls basketball teams to historic victories. As Class of 2022 salutatorian, Pavlos Tentamos recalls his favorite memory as having enjoyed the sense of togetherness with his class this year at the MAIT tournament. 

“The excitement of everyone running towards the court as the team made that last shot was incredible,” Pavlos said. 

It has truly been an exciting year for every one of these senior students, especially in our Athletics and Fine Arts areas. Besides our basketball teams excelling in national championships, many of our other sports, such as softball, lacrosse, track and field, baseball, and equestrian, have brought home a series of victories in their competitions. Whether it was winning the district championship or regional championship, our senior students will be advancing on with wonderful memories. 

The Class of 2022 also had 33 Distinguished Scholars among them, represented 38 countries, 40 Cum Laude Society inductees and had three National Merit Scholarship finalists.

“What I truly admire about our senior class is their sheer friendliness and respect,” Pavlos said. “Even though our class size is extremely large, I can effectively say that I have held meaningful conversations with a vast majority of my peers. Whether it’s a simple ‘good morning’ or a deeper discussion, there are always smiles on the faces I greet. It is a wonderful feeling to be around such positive, wholehearted people throughout most of your day.”

In the end, we are truly proud of the continued efforts of the Class of 2022’s desire to succeed in all they do and make it known. They have continuously portrayed examples of what we have rooted in the ideals of knowledge, character and community. Congratulations Class of 2022!