Since 1955, the annual ring ceremony celebrates Upper School juniors as they prepare to step into their roles as seniors and school leaders. This symbolic event marks a pivotal moment in the students’ journeys, celebrating their growth, the bonds they’ve formed, and the community they’ve created. On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the Class of 2026 participated in this rite of passage, surrounded by faculty, staff, and beloved family members, affirming their connection to Oak Knoll’s legacy.

Class President Maris McGinty ’26 welcomed attendees to the ceremony and stressed the moment’s significance to her classmates. “We have come so far since the first day of our freshman year,” she related. “Our rings will be a constant reminder of the community we have built during our time here and all the memories and relationships we have created. These rings remind us that our time at Oak Knoll is coming to a close in this place we have been lucky enough to call our second home.”

Following an opening prayer and scripture readings, Junior Class Vice President CeCe Honeker ’26 led her classmates in blessing the rings. In unison, the Class of 2026 asked that the rings symbolize all that Oak Knoll has gifted them, including lasting friendships, an enduring love of learning, and a home they will always be welcomed back to.

Upper School Dean for Grades 10-12 Zohra Ismail recited each student’s name as they came forward to accept their ring from Upper School Division Head Laura Hollenbaugh. Alumnae siblings, parents, and relatives stepped in to present the ring to their loved ones.

Hollenbaugh then offered remarks to the crowd. “ Years from now, you may not remember every test you took or every assignment you completed,” she stated. “You will remember the friendships you’ve built, the moments you’ve shared, and the lessons you’ve learned about who you are and want to become.”

The ceremony also included reading Steve Maraboli’s poem “Dare to Be” and Mother Theresa’s poem “Do It Anyway.” A small chorus of juniors performed Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me.”

In her closing reflection, Head of School Jennifer G. Landis spoke of the many milestones students experience and the series of thresholds they cross as they move forward in life. She concluded with a heartfelt invitation to remain connected to their class and Oak Knoll for many years to come.

“ The rings you receive today will be part of that journey,” she stated. “When you leave Oak Knoll, they will leave with you. Hopefully, they will be a clear reminder of your time together here and a hook to bring you back. Congratulations!”