GERSTELL ACADEMY
LEADERSHIP • HONOR • COURAGE

Gerstell Academy Celebrates Commencement

June 6, 2025 – Finksburg, MD – On Friday morning at 10:00 a.m., Gerstell Academy held its annual commencement ceremony to honor the Class of 2025. The event marked a significant milestone for the 43 graduating seniors, celebrating years of hard work, growth, and leadership. These students leave behind a legacy of academic excellence, community involvement, and deep camaraderie. 

A large crowd of proud parents, friends, alumni, and faculty gathered on the picturesque campus to witness the momentous occasion. The procession was led by Dr. Frederick G. Smith, Founder, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and President Emeritus, who was joined by board members, administration, and faculty. Accompanied by the stirring music of “The Sounding Brass,” the graduates followed with their advisors, led by a solo bagpiper—a beloved tradition at Gerstell. 

Mr. John Polasko, President of Gerstell Academy, welcomed guests and opened the ceremony. Ms. Jenna Daly, Chair of the Music Department, delivered a powerful rendition of the National Anthem. 
Gerstell Academy Student Government Association President Skyler Ellison led the invocation, followed by opening comments from Mr. Brian Abbott, Head of Upper School. 

Mr. Brian Abbott, Head of the Upper School, reflected on the skills and leadership abilities the students developed during their time in the upper school and how they will utilize these skills in the future. 
Valedictorian of the Class of 2025 Imari Owens addressed her classmates, reflecting on the friendships, support, and shared experiences that defined their high school years. She reflected on the importance of time.  
“As we enter the sea of time we always need to remember one thing: time is something we can never get back; whatever you do or don’t do, the time will pass anyway. This is not a fact to instill fear but to inspire confidence. We are currently all in possession of the greatest gift: time. Follow your dreams; learn something about yourself; find a new hobby; clean your room: the world awaits. Remember to start: anytime any place, because time is waiting for you.” 

Senior Landon Yetta presented the Class Gift—a set of steps connecting the senior roost to the sidewalk, adjacent to the sport court—to Dr. Smith and Mr. Polasko. 
Awards and recognitions highlighted the many accomplishments of the Class of 2025: 
  • The Norm Smith Leadership Award was presented to Skyler Ellison by Mr. Brian Abbott. 
  • The Stephen Olszewski Excellence in Teaching Award was awarded to Ms. Amy Funk, a beloved mathematics teacher, by Dr. Frederick Smith and Mr. John Polasko. 
  • Dr. Frederick Smith presented the Christopher A. Poklemba Award to Gavin Larson. 
  • Dr. Frederick Smith presented The Gary E. Slyman Leadership Scholar Award to Imari Owens. 
These honors recognized students and faculty who exemplify the school’s core values and were accompanied by a plaque and/or monetary gift. 
 
Diplomas were awarded by Dr. Frederick Smith, Mr. John Polasko, Mr. Brian Abbott, and Dr. Venice Paterakis, Vice President of the Board of Trustees. Dr. Jason Hammond and Ms. Megan Carroll, fellow trustees, were also in attendance. 

Ms. Nicole Scherr, 13’ provided a welcome from the Alumni Association to the graduates and encouraged them to remain connected to Gerstell. 

President John Polasko concluded the ceremony with heartfelt closing remarks, after which the Gerstell Alma Mater—written by Deborah Paterakis—was performed, bringing the morning to a joyful and fitting close. 

As the Class of 2025 embarks on its next chapter, they carry with them the values and leadership principles instilled at Gerstell Academy—ready to lead and serve with leadership, honor, and courage. 
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2500 Old Westminster Pike
Finksburg, MD 21048-1823
410-861-3000
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