Oak Hall School announced the graduation of its first senior cohort of the “Distinguished Scholar Program: Global Affairs.”

Six students, under the guidance of Dr. Christiana Aulino and Sohphia Skoglund-Cotter, completed the academic experience designed to develop globally minded and culturally competent leaders.

The Class of 2025 Distinguished Scholars include Shyla Akri, Alivia Dragstedt, Benjamin Leber, Noor Mian, Elizabeth Pritchett and Joshua Turner. The six students were recently honored during a celebratory spring summit held on April 16. The students presented their Senior Legacy Project titled “Fighting Hunger: Local Action in a Global Conversation.”

According to the Oak Hall release, the Distinguished Scholar Program: Global Affairs offers an interdisciplinary approach that integrates world language studies, international travel opportunities, and advanced coursework in disciplines such as geography, history, economics, and government. The program’s mission is to prepare students to become knowledgeable, ethical and engaged global citizens.

“We are incredibly proud of this inaugural class,” said Karin Montini, Associate Head of School at Oak Hall, in a press release. “They’ve modeled the values at the heart of Global Affairs: intellectual curiosity, civic engagement, and a deep respect for cross-cultural perspectives. Their work sets a powerful precedent for future cohorts.”

The program also welcomed 12 new scholars into the 2025–26 cohort, comprised of rising eighth to 10th graders.

“This program exemplifies Oak Hall’s mission to nurture thoughtful, impactful leaders. I’m thrilled to see how the Global Affairs track is equipping our students to understand and engage with the world in meaningful ways,” said Dr. James Hutchins, Head of School, in the press release.