Dear readers,
The beginning of this summer has allowed us to reflect upon senior year and our respective journeys through Newman. Senior year can seem special as you embrace every last moment with your class, but it is also the start of something new. It is often said that the attitudes and leadership of the senior class sets the tone for the entire Upper School, and, as the oldest division, the Upper School has an influence on the entire school. We hope the leadership of the Class of 2026 has left an impact in the classroom, on the field, and upon the stage that will last long after we have left campus. Now, we hope to leave some final parting words of reflection and advice.
Tripp de Laureal: Looking back on my experience at Newman throughout these last four years, I realize how almost every part of the school has impacted me in some way. Being on the Navigator has obviously been super important to me because it allowed me a space to be creative and write about things I was passionate about while also teaching me to be more responsible as a leader once I became an editor. The cross-country team was probably the biggest commitment I had throughout high school and being on it was easily the best experience I had during the past four years. I got to grow both as an athlete and as a friend because I made so many close connections with everyone on that team, and I’m sad to leave. And of course, being a co-president of Book Club with Morgan and Helen has reminded me of the power of reading despite our fluctuating amount of members (how we managed to last the full four years with zero consistent members is beyond me). My biggest piece of advice would probably be to not be afraid to spend time and focus on yourself. There are going to be many times throughout high school where you’ll be stressed or overwhelmed by something, whether it’s academic, social, or anything else. Don’t be afraid to do you and take the time to destress because that’s so much more important than whatever you’re worrying about. Lastly, I just want to thank all the friends, teachers, and classmates who have been there for me along the way. It’s been a fun ride.
Morgan Breaux: Spontaneously joining the Navigator in the second semester of my freshman year was one of the best decisions I made, teaching me the importance of diving headfirst into new opportunities. Over the past four years, I have been a part of many different iterations of the Navigator, from years we struggled to produce writing to times when we could have filled a third print edition. The message I hope to leave is simple. Write about what you feel is important, because if you don’t, your message may never be heard. In a digital world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence and false media, I hope the Navigator upholds the standards of journalism and continues to be a beacon of truth for the Newman community. Looking into the future, I have realized how my experiences at Newman have shaped me into the person I am today. The pride of belonging to such an inclusive community will always stay with me, and there is no better example on Newman’s campus than the swim team. Intensifying our commitment to civil discourse with ACTIONS taught me the importance of challenging assumptions and pushing conversations to become uncomfortable and vulnerable. Creating a space where everyone can be appreciated and heard was the purpose of my work with the Arts Committee. I would like to thank Ms. Wilson and all the editors who mentored Tripp and I along the way; our jobs would’ve been impossible without you. Finally, I would like to extend a thank you to all the friends, mentors, and teachers who have always been there for me. I cannot wait to see what the future brings.
Thank you to the Navigator Staff for your endless work and dedication this year. To Zoila and Yhanie, your leadership was integral, and we are confident that you will do amazing next year as Co Editors-In-Chief. Thank you to Ms. Wilson for always offering your support, guidance, and advice. Finally, thank you to the Newman Community that keeps creating experiences worthy of writing about, and thank you to those who continue to read.
Signing off,
Morgan Breaux ’26 & Tripp deLaureal ’26
Senior Executive Editors-In-Chief
