Traip Academy’s Class of 2025 co-valedictorians, honors students

KITTERY, Maine — Jane Durgin, principal of Robert W. Traip Academy, has announced the co-valedictorians and Latin Honor students from the Class of 2025. 

Commencement exercises for Kittery’s public high school will take place Friday, June 13, at 4:30 p.m., at Fort Foster Park. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony would be held in the Traip gymnasium.

Here’s a look at the honored students, as described by the school’s announcement:

Co-valedictorians

Makili Matty, son of Raphael and Blayne Matty, is a student who exemplifies the very best of Traip Academy. A gifted scholar with a genuine love of learning, Makili has excelled in advanced and AP courses across disciplines, with particular strength in mathematics. His talents extend to the arts, engineering, and creative writing. Makili is a standout athlete, serving as captain of the soccer team and earning honors such as the Western Maine Conference Class C/D Player of the Year and recognition from Seacoastonline. He also participates in Nordic skiing, lacrosse, ice hockey, and is an active member of the robotics and math teams. He serves as co-president of the Interact Club and appeared in this year’s school musical, showcasing his multifaceted interests. Known for his kindness, integrity, and community service, Makili plans to attend Colby College, majoring in mathematics.

Meredith McGonigle, daughter of Michael and Sarah McGonigle, has demonstrated extraordinary academic strength, artistic talent, and personal drive throughout her time at Traip Academy. A top scholar across all disciplines, Meredith is also a dedicated artist and athlete. She has played key roles on the varsity soccer, lacrosse, and alpine ski teams, and has long been active in environmental and service efforts through the Interact Club and the school’s greenhouse program. Meredith’s goals are matched by action — such as her pursuit of hiking all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot peaks. Deeply influenced by her international experience living in London and her family’s love of nature and the arts, Meredith is thoughtful, humble, and driven by her values. She will attend Tufts University’s School of the Museum of Fine Arts, where she will study studio art.

Latin Honors:

The following students are also being recognized for their impressive academic performance with Latin Honors, which are awarded based on cumulative GPA:

Summa cum laude (with highest honor)

Keira Alessi, Peter Brewer, Frances Burke, Sarah Carven, Camden Cyr, Acadia Dorgan, Cecilia Gagner, Sienna Graham, Sage Hoffman, Autumn Jacques, Ruby Jedziniak, Sadie Latchaw, Elivia Mandani, Adelaide Schroeck, Grace Scoggins, Ian Seckler, Myles Seckler, Camden Wiles.

Magna cum laude (with great honor)

Christopher Balano, Enrique Blackwood, Aleiana Booker, Bayla Cassinelli, Phinian Fifield, Delia Hartley, Elias Holben, Jacey Johnson, Tayla Parsons, Abigail Rivers, Aberash Robinson, Lilly Stuart, William Sumsion, Kavika Vargas, Ava Walker, Leanna Walters.

Cum laude (with honor)

Ava Anzelmo, Samantha Bonfiglio-Eaves, Jonas Byrne, Jack Downs, Samuel Jordan, Anne Krumsiek, Amelia Leland, Oliver Marple, Colin O’Loughlin, Siobhan Reeve, Riley Robinson, Emelie Rollins, Conner Scott, Ethan Wilfong, Christopher Wyeth.

Traip Academy congratulates all members of the Class of 2025 on their accomplishments and looks forward to celebrating their bright futures at this year’s Commencement.

Author Ryan Higgins is commencement speaker

Ryan Higgins, a New York Times bestselling author, is widely known for his popular “Mother Bruce” series and a host of other humorous and heartwarming children’s books. A Kittery resident and proud Traip Academy alumnus, Higgins often draws creative inspiration from the people and landscapes of his home state. His work has earned numerous national and international accolades and continues to delight young readers and families around the world.

In addition to his success as an author and illustrator, Higgins is a dedicated father and an engaged member of the Seacoast community. His return to Traip Academy as commencement speaker represents a full-circle moment for a graduate whose storytelling has touched countless lives.