Congratulations Award Winners!
Upper school awards 2021
Social Studies Awards
Liv Lindgren-Ornass - Grade 12
Social Studies Award
The History teacher of this exceptional student describes her as:
"One of the best history students I have ever taught - it is that simple." Every assignment she ever did showed a thorough understanding of the topic and was beautifully written. Liv excelled not only in political history, but demonstrated an acute understanding of social and cultural history as well. Her outstanding Extended Essay in History showed the ways that ideology influenced architecture in post-war Warsaw. As well as completing the IB Diploma she also completed the Swiss Matura in her own time, doing particularly well in her Philosophy and History of Art exams. Though she will study architecture at the ETH, the Social Studies department is convinced that this student will, in the not too distant future, be offering lectures in the history of architecture. Please congratulate the winner of the Social Studies Award, Liv Lindgren-Ornass.
Yannick Kappeler - Grade 12
Social Studies Award
Yannick has been one of the strongest in his cohort in both Economics and Geography throughout the IB Diploma Program. His ability to make links between different parts of the syllabus within and between subjects, and more importantly, to make links to the real world, is exemplary. He is constantly enriching his learning by reading around the subjects, and speaks with the confident tone of a social scientist. He has a deep curiosity about understanding complex human problems that is at the heart of all Social Studies. Finally, he is a leader in the classroom where students and teachers have benefited from his passion, responsibility, collaboration and creativity. Please join us in congratulating Yannick Kappeler for his Social Studies award.
Ishika Gupta - Grade 12
Social Studies Award
Ishika completed every course that the Social Studies Department offers in Advanced Placement, and with great success - a truly exceptional achievement. Her academic work demonstrates that she is equally gifted as an economist or as a historian of art. Not only is she an outstanding historian and social scientist, but she also applies her learning outside the classroom, as a leader in Model United Nations, Amnesty International and at the Global Issues Network Conference. A natural leader within the classroom and outside the classroom, she combines strong analytical skills with empathy and sensitivity. The well deserved winner of this Social Studies Award is Ishika Gupta.
Mathematics Awards
LohithSai YadalaChanchu - Grade 12
Mathematics Award
Curiosity. Passion for the subject. A true desire to understand why. The willingness to spend significant time to learning and mastering the material. These are the traits we hope to see in all of our students. LohithSai is the embodiment of these traits. I am proud of him for his performance in class, his commitment to learning, and for the growth he has achieved in his time at the Upper School. Congratulations LohithSai!
Sophie Murthi - Grade 12
Mathematics Award
A self-starter. A young woman with a true love of learning. A natural leader, able to both stimulate other high achievers and to offer support to others who are struggling. A serene and reliable student who have never given less than her very best. Passionate of Mathematics and Economics, Sophie Murthi started working on her brilliant IA on "Netflix ideal level of output" way before a timeline was set. Sophie never gives up with a question, no matter how abstract and unfamiliar it is. Initially reserved, she does not hesitate to go to the board and illustrate her solutions - always thorough, concise and extremely well explained.
Callum Umaña-Stuart - Grade 12
Mathematics Award
Mathematics is certainly a subject that demands the highest levels of thinking. The successful student needs to be able to understand, reproduce and embrace the subtleties of the complex subject matter, and so very often has to display a tolerance, and a patience, to reach the profound levels of comprehension this discipline demands. With an intelligence and modesty rarely seen at high school level, this student readily met those challenges. His approach to Advanced Placement BC Calculus this year was always sublimely intelligent, rigorous and precise. He often approached me quietly, and humbly, before or after a class, to share an alternative solution to a difficult question. An affable, unpretentious young man who exudes mathematical talent and is simply a pleasure to teach. He is also an exceedingly friendly, caring and courteous student who is always willing to discuss his methods and share his skills with his classmates. The mathematics department at ZIS is delighted to present this year’s prize for mathematics to Callum Umaña-Stuart.
Science Awards
Frederick Mangold - Grade 12
Science Award (Biology)
Fred is a fantastic biologist, he brings a real buzz and enthusiam to the class. Always quick with an idea, answer, question or joke. He has brought fun to the class and I thank him for that. His dedication to his studies has inspired others and if you ever need a man to set up a potometer he is your guy. Always dilligent with his data and precise with his work. Congratulations, Frederick!
Henny Losin - Grade 12
Science Award (Applied Design)
Henny was, to put in mildly, always creatively consistent. She takes what she learns, interprets and conceptualizes it, which leads her to creations that display her insight and personality. Well deserved Henny and good luck with whatever creative endeavor you tackle next.
Ankush Majmudar - Grade 12
Science Award (Physics)
The recipient of this year's Physics award is a highly gifted student who shows great ability in all the topics we have studied in IB Physics. He is also a person who does not shy away from a challenge. For his Extended Essay he studied the motion of fluid filled containers, this was not a simple task. He could have taken the easy route and simplified the problem, instead he chose the harder, more complex, more engaging route. He was not thinking solely about the grade, he wanted to learn. Despite his outstanding ability he has at all times been modest about his talents and understanding of others.
Caroline Terryn - Grade 12
Science Award (Chemistry)
This year's Chemistry award winner goes to a highly committed student who has always shown a passion for all aspects of science. She will eagerly participate in any opportunity to try out new experiments whether this is trying to change the colour of the chemistry room walls, or by creating her own gruesome cat jigsaws. When it came to the AP Chemistry course, she was incredibly driven and always like she had just lost an electron - very positive. She could be counted upon to have prepared meticulously and she would always really delve into a topic to make sure that she understood the material. This year's winner is ....Carbon, argon, oxygen, lithium, neon ....... (Caroline) Terryn.
Alexander Scheck - Grade 12
Science Award (Environmental Science)
This year's recipient of the ESS Award is a committed and engaged science student who loves learning new things about the natural world. Not only did he take IB ESS, but delved into the natural sciences through participation in both the AP Biology and Chemistry curricula. In addition to enjoying learning in the classroom, this student has expanded their learning by participating in a variety of field research programs during the school breaks. We present this year's ESS award to Alex Scheck and wish him all the best In university, where he plans to continue to pursue this passion and study zoology.
Samuel Power - Grade 10
Science Award (Computer Science)
Sam showed incredible enthusiasm for computer science and has made an impressive amount of progress over the course of the past year, especially taking into account that he had limited programming experience in the beginning. He was always eager to share his thoughts in class discussions and was the most active in our class group chat, jumping at any opportunity to provide help and support to his peers. His hard work and dedication culminated in him winning the 1st place prize at our end-of-year hackathon. Congratulations!
English Awards
Helena Gordon-Agbaje - Grade 12
David Leck Memorial English Award
Just like the beloved English teacher, David Leck, for whom this award honours, this student deeply respects the power of words. From the comic adventures of Scott Pilgrim to the complicated misadventures of Clytemnestra and Orestes, this student’s love for literature is broad and rich. Indeed, her deep and abiding intellectual curiosity for language has made waves in oral exams, at the podium for Black History Month, and online as an international panel leader. Her sophisticated HL Essay exploring a novel from a queer literary lens mirrors her commitment to standing up for justice and inclusion. This scholar not only delighted in discussions with her classmates, but she generously engaged a visiting adult in student lead book clubs to converse over Zadie Smith’s finesse and appeal. Her wonder, passion and resolve to help create a better world is translated in powerful ways through her study of literature.
Liv Lindgren-Ornass - Grade 12
Barbi Mott Distinguished Writer Award
Like Barbi Mott, a well loved English teacher, this year's recipient has demonstrated a passion and care for the craft of writing. She approaches the writing of poetry, short stories and a historical novel with a high level of engagement and exceptional skill. She has also extended her compassion and empathy to members of the Creative Writing Club and to her English peers. Her English teacher has been consistently impressed with the quality of her writing, her sophisticated responses to literature, and her ability to keep her work to such a high standard despite the challenges of learning from home. We would like to present this year's Barbi Mott Distinguished Writer's Award to Liv Lindgren-Ornass.
Susanna Cahn von Seelen - Grade 12
Barbi Mott Distinguished Writer Award
This writer brings soul to the pages of her writing, both in her creative and academic work. She exudes passion and deep appreciation for writing. In her stories and poems, her craft allows us to immediately engage with a vast array of emotions, characters and settings. Her thoughtfulness on the page also extends to others when she provides feedback to aspiring writers in an empathetic manner. Such support has been appreciated both in the Creative Writing Club and among her peers in her IB Language and Literature course. Her well crafted essays, even when written on the spot, were so well written that they would be read aloud, modeling how to begin a great argument. Her sensitivity for the written word has helped all of us nurture our love for words and literature. Her consistent growth as a writer, the depth of her critical thinking, and her wit emulate the nature of the beloved teacher, Barbi Mott.
Creative Arts Awards
Smilla Aguren - Grade 10
Daniel Floersheimer Photography Award
Smilla's portfolio impressed the Visual Arts Department jury, along with her proposal which was to work privately with Barcelona based photographer, Sofia Fernandez Stenstrom. She will learn about the life of a freelance photographer - doing editorial and private shoots and as well as creating a body of work of fine art photos for a gallery. Smilla is considering Photography as a career. There is a connection between her work and Ms. Stenstrom's; both are storytellers. Her photographic work incorporates a beautiful sensitivity and sophistication of use of light, props and varied subjects - creating portraits, focusing most recently on the concept of belonging.
Colin Daines - Grade 11
Louis Armstrong Jazz Award
The Louis Armstrong Jazz Award is recognized worldwide, and given to students who have demonstrated skill and dedication to the musical art of Jazz. This year's recipient has been a dedicated student of jazz for a long while, working very hard with his private instructor to learn the higher level skills of improvisation. Colin has played in Lions Jazz since grade 9, but also participates in groups outside of ZIS and has played publicly with other serious musicians. Though his understanding of jazz runs much deeper that a typical Grade 11 student, he remains completely modest and works happily with less experienced players. His peers simply worship him, and as his teacher his musical choices make me smile and even laugh with their level of cleverness and understanding. I have rarely come across such a gift in my 31 years in education. I am delighted to recognize Colin Daines and look forward to seeing where his gifts take him next.
Gabrielle Archambault - Grade 12
Visual Arts Award
“Good morning Gabby, how are you today?”. “Great! Never better” she enthusiastically replies then gets straight to work. This is how every day starts with Gabrielle Archambault, usually followed by a string of ideas and questions regarding her most recent project. To say that she is passionate about Art and education in general is an understatement. Gabrielle’s enthusiasm for her work is contagious. When she talks about her latest painting or sculpture you can’t help but get excited with her and look forward to seeing the end result. She is a gifted painter with a natural understanding of light, shadow, and color theory. Her bold use of color is complimented by her sensitivity to the material resulting in a style that is uniquely hers. What is special about this is Gabrielle’s technical skill allows her exuberance and enthusiasm to shine through in her work. The results are impressive.
Sabrina George - Grade 12
National School Choral Award
The National School Choral Award is a worldwide recognized award, given to students who have demonstrated passion and dedication to Vocal and Choral Arts. Sabrina has not only demonstrated those two qualities in her last 4 years at ZIS, but has been an advocate for singing, for ensemble work, and not only a supportive peer for her classmates, but an inspiration to rake risks, be brave and to grow as a singer and as an individual. Always game to try something new and put herself out there, she has been a soloist but also an invaluable strong leader and member of the ensemble. She has participated in musicals, music festivals including auditioned solo performances, as well as outside of school vocal music opportunities. She has taken every chance to grow, always approached feedback with an open mind and a learner's mindset, and has grown so much in not only her ability for self-reflection and analysis of both her own singing and performing, but of the ensemble's as well, and has shared her insights with her peers frequently, because she cares to see everyone grow and succeed. I could not be happier to present the National School Choral Award to Sabrina George, and wish her a future filled with song! Congratulations!
Maxwell Jacobson - Grade 12
Theater Award
Maxwell has not only shown great potential in the field of acting, but has impressed us all with his drive, energy and determination to do his best. He has dedicated himself, both in class and after school, to perfecting his craft through intense rehearsals, diligent studies, and constant questioning. I see great things in the future for this talented young man, I am happy and proud to award Maxwell Jacobson with this year’s Theatre Award. Congratulations!
Noah Gellner - Grade 12
National School Orchestra Award
The National School Orchestra Award is recognized worldwide, and given to students who have demonstrated skill and dedication to the Orchestra program. This year's recipient has been in the Upper School Orchestra since grade 9. He has demonstrated a high level of competence and perfectionism during classes, but also works hard in his personal time, studying and practicing violin and piano. His personal drive and work ethic is admirable, and he has accomplished a lot during his time at ZIS with his music. He has always been a calm and quiet leader as the concertmaster, and taken challenges as a soloist with the group in a difficult year for musicians. He was always able to help those around him with kindness and a deep understanding of the music happening around him. He will represent the class of 2021 as one of the graduation ceremony performers as a final farewell to ZIS. I am proud to recognize Noah Gellner for the second year in a row, and hope he finds a place to share his musical gifts with others in the future.
Callum Umaña-Stuart - Grade 12
John Philip Sousa Band Award
The John Philip Sousa Band Award is recognized worldwide, and given to students who have demonstrated skill and dedication to the Band program. This year's recipient has been in the Upper School Band since grade 9. He has demonstrated a high level of competence and perfectionism during classes, but also works hard in his personal time, studying and practicing percussion and guitar. He has supported other groups during his time at ZIS, always happy to join the String Orchestra and playing in the challenging pit orchestra of the musical Grease. He always took a leadership role in the percussion section, and supported the learning of younger, less experienced performers. While 2020/21 has been difficult for musicians around the world, he has always been someone I knew I could depend on when the time came. He will represent the class of 2021 as one of the graduation ceremony performers as a final farewell to ZIS. I am proud to recognize Callum Umaña-Stuart, and hope he finds a place to share his musical gifts with others in the future.
Caroline Smith - Grade 12
Visual Arts Award
Despite the considerable difficulties we faced during the past year, Caroline has managed to produce a number of outstanding and memorable portraits for her AP Drawing portfolio. I have been particularly impressed with the apparent ease with which she has combined freedom of brushwork with precision in her paintings. She can be her worst critic and is rarely satisfied, yet others have praised her original use of composition and have been surprised by the scale and power of her work. For a quiet and introspective person, her sensitive portraits have revealed a lot about her and her subjects.
World Language Awards
Ruby Nwose - Grade 11
Hanna Gasser Award
This award was donated by the parents of former students of Hanna Gasser, a teacher and Head of the Foreign Languages Department from 1990 to 2001, to acknowledge her accomplishments and to celebrate her memory. The award is given to a student in Grades 9-11 who, in the view of the German department faculty, shows the most dedication and perseverance in improving his or her German. The award recognizes the effort required to learn a foreign language and provides CHF 600 toward a summer term of study of the German language at an accredited language school in a German-speaking country.
Ruby Nwose is a worthy winner of the 2021 Hanna Gasser Award. She is an open, positive young woman currently attending our German II course. She has only been in Switzerland since 2019 and this is her 2nd year of German. On the introductory days for the teachers, she and two colleagues spoke to the entire teaching staff about racism at school and I was really impressed by the way Ruby spoke in front of so many teachers. When it comes to German, Ruby says that it is not easy for her as German is her first foreign language.
She was particularly hard hit by the situation with COVID as she belongs to a risk group and had to stay home for many weeks while all other students came to school in person. That is when she showed me once again how consistent she is. Virtually, she always showed up for class on time and completed her assignments. If something was unclear, she asked or wrote to me. Ruby is characterized by her attention and great motivation. She always tries hard and gives the best of herself and, if need be, she is not afraid to share her opinion on things with her classmates. I feel fortunate to have Ruby as my student and wish her a wonderful stay, hopefully somewhere in Germany or Austria to improve her German even more.
Devansh Datta - Grade 10
World Language Award (German)
The award for German as a foreign language is given to an exemplary language learner, who shows both great improvement in writing and speaking and was extremely dedicated to the writing and reading projects. From the first of classes, this student shone because of his attitude towards learning. He was always fully engaged and brought a positive outlook to class. He was completely reliable when it came to doing his homework and being prepared. He realized that, ultimately, a teacher is only the facilitator and that learning has to come from the student.
This year’s World Languages award for German as a foreign language goes to Devansh Datta.
Sophia Landolf - Grade 9
World Language Award (German Fluent Speaker)
The German Fluent Speakers Award goes to a student who always delivers excellent content. Her thoughts are well formulated and her writing displays analytical thinking and her essays display high quality above and beyond expectations. Sophia is able to create impressive presentations. Her creative writing is another strength. She wrote an imaginative and humorous short story placed in a perfectly constructed setting which proves that she is a true writer! Congratulations to Sophia!
Emily Ringger - Grade 9
World Language Award (German Fluent Speaker)
The German Fluent Speakers Award goes to a student who displays not only an exemplary work attitude but goes beyond and above expectations in her writing as far as depth and writing style are concerned. Emily’s vocabulary is rich, varied and precise in order to express her complex thoughts. She is not satisfied with a written piece unless it fulfills her high standards. She has great sensitivity for language style which she displayed in discussing Stefan Zweig and her ambition would be to write like this extraordinary writer. This shows that she sets the bar for excellence at a very high level. Congratulations to Emily!
Amelie Kaas - Grade 10
World Language Award (Spanish)
The Award for Spanish as a foreign language is given to a Grade 10 student who has shown a great interest in improving the language and getting to know Latin American culture. During her two years of Spanish at the Upper School, she has always been outstanding. This year, in Spanish IV, she continued to develop her skills and presented very good projects on the Impact of technology in politics, the Child malnutrition problem in South America and the lack of clean water in El Salvador in which she shared her knowledge and demonstrated great sensitivity. For these reasons, we are very happy to present the World language award for Spanish as a foreign language to Amelie Kaas!
Regina Garibay-Velasco - Grade 11
World Language Award (Spanish Fluent Speaker)
The award for Fluent Speakers in Spanish is given to one student who demonstrates not only very good skills in reading comprehension, speaking and writing expression in Spanish but also a deeper appreciation of the culture and traditions of the Hispanic people. The recipient of this award is a hardworking and organized student, who has shown diligence in improving her mother tongue skills. She has also demonstrated great sensitivity to the works we discuss in class, especially the stories of García Marquez about power abuse in Latin America. As part of the course workload this year, this student did some interesting projects such as the advance of the United Nations Goal Zero Hunger in Mexico, the Management of the COVID crisis in Spain, or the impact of COVID on young people in Mexico. Therefore, the World language award for Fluent speakers goes to Grade 11 student Regina Garibay!
Niccolo Giuliani - Grade 9
World Language Award (French)
This award for French as a foreign language goes to a student who, since the beginning of the year has made great progress. He is always ready for his lessons; never forgets his homework and always comes to class in good spirits. Furthermore, he helped his French teacher by putting together his classmates' videos into one film for the French Lycée. He volunteered to do this during his free time and we all appreciated the result. With all her gratitude, his French teacher is proud and very happy to nominate Niccolo Giuliani for the French language acquisition award.
Alice Romagna - Grade 10
World Language Award (French Fluent Speaker)
This award is intended to recognize the curiosity and the enthusiasm of students for the French culture and language as well as the efforts that he/she exhibited throughout this past year. That same student must have shown not only consistency regarding their grades, but also genuine interest for the subject by frequently participating in class and sharing valuable opinions with their peers in a very clear and structured way as well as by constantly showing their ability to write the language in a creative and sound way. This year, the award regarding French for Fluent Speakers is presented to a very special student whose flare for the French language whether it is written or spoken is simply undeniable. Felicitations Alice Romagna!
Physical Education / ATAC Awards
Grade 9 Physical Education / Grade 10 Sports Leader Physical Education Awards
Awards winners in Grade 9 and Grade 10 Physical Education must meet the following criteria to be recognized for the award
- Demonstrate a satisfactory level of physical skills, and show an ability to apply them in a variety of indoor and outdoor physical activities.
- Demonstrate responsible personal and social behavior, sportsmanship and citizenship.
- Show a real desire to learn and improve in all Physical Education units, regardless of physical ability.
- Exhibit a physically active lifestyle both inside and outside of school.
- Demonstrate strong leadership and have a positive influence on their peers.
Physical Education / ATAC Awards
Pablo Meijer - Grade 12
Male Athlete of the Year
A three season athlete in soccer, basketball, and track, Pablo has always been involved in supporting the ZIS community and younger players. Pablo is a pleasure to coach and an extremely hard-working athlete. He is never intimidated by taller or bigger players. He’s scrappy and not afraid to battle. His athletic skills improved each year through his work ethic. He has a fantastic attitude when accepting his roles within his teams with grace and always gave 110% whenever he stepped into the playing arena. A great teammate, role model, and a fine young man. This award is in recognition of his outstanding commitment to the program over his time here at ZIS.
Kathryn Gray - Grade 12
Female Athlete of the Year
A three season athlete with only positive contributions within the ski team, soccer team, and softball team. She shows impressive drive, commitment, and desire to improve. A leader by example, with the ability to quietly offer supportive advice, Katy has shown a great commitment to the ZIS sports program over the last 7 years. Her care for the program overall and not herself as an individual is a great character trait. She is motivated by her desire to be part of a team and enjoy her teammates even more than her own performance. This award is in recognition of her outstanding commitment to the program over her time here at ZIS.
Joseph Lang - Grade 9
Grade 9 Physical Education Award
The Physical Education Award is presented to one boy and one girl in each of the two Grade levels the courses take place.
All Grade 9 recipients are fine examples of students who show outstanding attitudes towards every PE class they take part in. They enter each new unit of work with an extremely positive attitude, and fully commit to getting the most out of every session. Their enthusiasm for every physical activity covered this year has had a noticeable impact on their peers, and they meet all tasks with a teachable spirit that allows them to gain success no matter what they are doing.
Joseph has a never say die attitude that inspires others, and shows exactly what can be achieved when you really put your mind to it. He is a talented sportsperson across many disciplines, but more than that he displays a healthy competitive spirit that motivates those around him to achieve more. Never wanting to be the center of attention for his ability, Joseph would rather help others, and make the class run smoothly than need personal recognition.
The Winners of this year’s male Grade 9 PE Award is Joseph Lang.
Nadia Probst - Grade 9
Grade 9 Physical Education Award
The Physical Education Award is presented to one boy and one girl in each of the two Grade levels the courses take place. However due to two outstanding female candidates this year the Grade 9 award has two female winners.
All Grade 9 recipients are fine examples of students who show outstanding attitudes towards every PE class they take part in. They enter each new unit of work with an extremely positive attitude, and fully commit to getting the most out of every session. Their enthusiasm for every physical activity covered this year has had a noticeable impact on their peers, and they meet all tasks with a teachable spirit that allows them to gain success no matter what they are doing.
Nadia and Ziortza have brought competitive edge to every challenge they have faced, and always put others before themselves, in a selfless and team like manner. They are both energetic, engaged, and spirited from the first minute until the last, and always willing to contribute to the greater good of each class. Nadia and Ziortza embody everything we can expect a student athlete to bring to a physical education program, and consistently set a high standard for all to aspire to and learn from.
The Winners of this year’s female Grade 9 PE Award are Nadia Probst and Ziortza Gonzalez.
Ziortza Gonzalez - Grade 9
Grade 9 Physical Education Award
The Physical Education Award is presented to one boy and one girl in each of the two Grade levels the courses take place. However due to two outstanding female candidates this year the Grade 9 award has two female winners.
All Grade 9 recipients are fine examples of students who show outstanding attitudes towards every PE class they take part in. They enter each new unit of work with an extremely positive attitude, and fully commit to getting the most out of every session. Their enthusiasm for every physical activity covered this year has had a noticeable impact on their peers, and they meet all tasks with a teachable spirit that allows them to gain success no matter what they are doing.
Nadia and Ziortza have brought competitive edge to every challenge they have faced, and always put others before themselves, in a selfless and team like manner. They are both energetic, engaged, and spirited from the first minute until the last, and always willing to contribute to the greater good of each class. Nadia and Ziortza embody everything we can expect a student athlete to bring to a physical education program, and consistently set a high standard for all to aspire to and learn from.
The Winners of this year’s female Grade 9 PE Award are Nadia Probst and Ziortza Gonzalez.
Evie Reza - Grade 10
Grade 10 Sports Leader Physical Education Award
The Physical Education Award is presented to one boy and one girl in each of the two Grade levels the courses take place.
The Grade10 Sports Leader PE award has three recipients who are always willing to learn new skills, and strive to master the techniques of every activity they participate in. They demonstrate an extremely positive attitude in all aspects of physical education, constantly extending themselves beyond their comfort zones in order to expand their learning. Above all they consistently demonstrate proactive and positive attitudes that are an inspiration to those around them, working tirelessly to make sure their classmates get the most out of every session.
Evie Reza is a multi-sport athlete who pushes herself in everything she does. Never afraid to shirk a challenge, she loves to participate in a wide range of activities with a smile on her face, no matter the outcome. Her enthusiasm for physical activity is infectious, and she always looks to inspire those around her to improve, and find enjoyment in their work. She always contributes to making others feel valued, and inspired by her actions, and her leadership is second to none.
With her endearing mannerisms, and wealth of physical education knowledge, Evie is a real credit to herself, and displays extremely valuable characteristics that will no doubt hold her in good stead for any field she decides to pursue in the future.
The Winner of this year’s female Grade 10 Sports Leader PE Award is: Evie Reza
Simon Nordh - Grade 10
Grade 10 Sports Leader Physical Education Award
The Physical Education Award is presented to one boy and one girl in each of the two Grade levels the courses take place. However two excellent G10 male candidates have led to joint male winners.
The Grade10 Sports Leader PE award has three recipients who are always willing to learn new skills, and strive to master the techniques of every activity they participate in. They demonstrate an extremely positive attitude in all aspects of physical education, constantly extending themselves beyond their comfort zones in order to expand their learning. Above all they consistently demonstrate proactive and positive attitudes that are an inspiration to those around them, working tirelessly to make sure their classmates get the most out of every session.
Our male winners this year, Simon Nordh and Luca Pagliara, are some of the most likeable and dedicated students you are ever likely to meet. Always the first to arrive to class, and the last to leave, they could not do any more to help enhance the positive experiences their fellow students have in class. Their effort and attitude towards the subject are outstanding, and the growth mindset displayed throughout the year in a variety of learning situations, constantly sets the bar high for others. Both go about their learning in focussed and selfless way, always making sure to value the input of others, and help their less experienced peers taste success in every class. Both young men persevere with the physical and mental demands of each class, and show their peers just what can be achieved when you do not put limits on your ability level.
With their endearing mannerisms, and wealth of physical education knowledge, our Grade 10 Sports Leader Physical Education winners are a real credit to themselves, and display extremely valuable characteristics that will no doubt hold them in good stead for any field they decide to pursue in the future.
The Winners of this year’s male Grade10 Sports Leader PE Award are: Simon Nordh and Luca Pagliara
Luca Pagliara - Grade 10
G10 Sports Leader Physical Education Award
The Physical Education Award is presented to one boy and one girl in each of the two Grade levels the courses take place. However two excellent G10 male candidates have led to joint male winners.
The Grade10 Sports Leader PE award has three recipients who are always willing to learn new skills, and strive to master the techniques of every activity they participate in. They demonstrate an extremely positive attitude in all aspects of physical education, constantly extending themselves beyond their comfort zones in order to expand their learning. Above all they consistently demonstrate proactive and positive attitudes that are an inspiration to those around them, working tirelessly to make sure their classmates get the most out of every session.
Our male winners this year, Simon Nordh and Luca Pagliara, are some of the most likeable and dedicated students you are ever likely to meet. Always the first to arrive to class, and the last to leave, they could not do any more to help enhance the positive experiences their fellow students have in class. Their effort and attitude towards the subject are outstanding, and the growth mindset displayed throughout the year in a variety of learning situations, constantly sets the bar high for others. Both go about their learning in focussed and selfless way, always making sure to value the input of others, and help their less experienced peers taste success in every class. Both young men persevere with the physical and mental demands of each class, and show their peers just what can be achieved when you do not put limits on your ability level.
With their endearing mannerisms, and wealth of physical education knowledge, our Grade 10 Sports Leader Physical Education winners are a real credit to themselves, and display extremely valuable characteristics that will no doubt hold them in good stead for any field they decide to pursue in the future.
The Winners of this year’s male Grade10 Sports Leader PE Award are: Simon Nordh and Luca Pagliara
Mission Awards
The purpose of Mission Awards is to:
- Affirm the values of ZIS encapsulated in Learn, Care, Challenge, Lead
- Encourage and promote what we want students to value and strive to achieve
- Recognize, celebrate, and acknowledge students who demonstrate or embody these values
- Recognize student achievement both in and outside the ZIS community
Learn Awards
At ZIS we hope that all students will apply themselves to learning by showing interest, participating actively in learning activities and putting effort into their work. Learn awards go to students who go above and beyond.
Care Awards
At ZIS we hope that all students will care for themselves and others demonstrating polite, respectful, helpful behaviors and to participate in service opportunities. Care awards are given to students who excel in this area or go above and beyond.
Challenge Awards
All students are expected to challenge themselves in their classes and in co-curricular activities. Challenge awards are made to students who go above and beyond this expectation in a physical, academic, cultural, or personal / social domain.
Lead Awards
All students are expected to demonstrate leadership when given the opportunity and support in class or in a club or sport. Lead awards go to students who distinguish themselves going above and beyond this expectation inside and outside of the classroom and ZIS community.
Mission Awards
Lorenzo Aragon - Grade 11
Lead Award
As the head of the ZIS Cares Committee, which is a group of student representatives from every service club, Lorenzo has supported the Upper School in creating a fun and vibrant community. He has helped to create and coordinate a collaborative calendar of events, promoted service awareness during Fun Flex Fridays and managed the ZIS Cares Fund. This role has helped to foster our ZIS Care pillar at the Upper School.
Alice Caracino - Grade 11
Challenge Award
Lucia and Alice took on the challenge (at the last minute) to attend the Zurich MUN conference. They thoroughly studied their topics, wrote multiple-position papers and even managed to organize the conference without missing their Geo IA fieldwork collection. This was our first time attending the conference, and they were stars in their committees. They successfully debated global issues with Swiss Matura students and students from the University of Zurich.
Jimena Cardenal Marti - Grade 9
Learn Award
Jimena has demonstrated dedication and commitment to improving her Spanish this year. Her active participation and focus in class has enhanced the learning environment. Additionally, she has consistently produced high quality projects. Jimena demonstrated a genuine interest in improving her mother tongue skills.
Andrew Clifford - Grade 10
Learn Award
Andrew set academic and personal goals for himself this year and he worked hard to meet them, even exceeding his goals in some areas. After a rocky start to the year, he worked hard to develop better study skills and habits, which led to stronger performance in all of his classes. He took on the challenge of taking a course designed for Grade 11 and 12 students, excelling in the course and further developing his keen curiosity for international affairs. Andrew's commitment to his studies and curiosity in history and global studies demonstrates his overall growth and strengths as a learner.
Oscar Dohr - Grade 10
Learn Award
Oscar has continually strived to support our ZIS community through service events. This year, as an active member in Project Green, Oscar has worked to organize community events, such as a movie screening. Even when these events were unable to happen, his initiative has helped to raise awareness in the community.
Ella Frauenlob - Grade 10
Challenge Award
Ella stepped up to attend the Zurich MUN conference when a student dropped out at the last minute. She thoroughly studied her topics, wrote multiple-position papers. This was our first time attending the conference, and she was a star in her committee. She successfully debated global issues with Swiss Matura students and students from the University of Zurich.
Pedro Henrique Ganeff Tavares - Grade 10
Care Award
Pedro's friendly attitude and welcoming personality has made him very popular with his peers but also an excellent grade representative. He continually asks his peers what can be improved and always works to make the situation around him better. He is the type of student and community member that others should aspire to be.
Olivia Gilfry - Grade 10
Care Award
Olivia has exemplified ZIS's Lead mission in her work both as SAGA co-president and as a Project Green executive, helping others follow her goal of working towards a better ZIS community. When she encounters challenges, she works through them with grace and dignity, but most of all, kindness.
Antonio Gomez Ortiz - Grade 11
Care Award
With a small group of fellow students, Antonio presented about the service work they do here at ZIS, to international school students from around the world at the Global Issues Network (GIN) Regional Conference, to inspire youth to take action about global concerns.
Sophia Gubser - Grade 9
Challenge Award
Sophia has consistently met the challenge of math class head-on. Even though she struggled initially with the material, she worked hard to change her study habits and also came in for extra help on multiple occasions. She is now one of the top performers in her class - well done!
Easton Hoch - Grade 9
Challenge Award
Easton has taken on a great academic challenge by taking two AP classes during his Grade 9 year. He welcomed this opportunity for enrichment and also worked hard to be very successful in these courses. This exemplifies his genuine interest and enjoyment of learning.
Graziella Infante - Grade 11
Learn Award
Grace embodies a commitment to learning that is rarely seen by her peers and teachers. She spends many hours studying Chinese and Arabic that can go unrecognized as it is done independently. Her organization is a strength that both benefits her learning as well as setting an example for others. Her success in managing a variety of difficult classes exemplify her commitment to learning.
Summer Jolly - Grade 9
Learn Award
Summer has shown a great level of dedication to improving her Spanish this year. She participates very well in class, listens attentively and is always on task. Summer demonstrated a great interest in improving her skills with the language and at the same time is always ready to help her classmates.
Amelie Kaas - Grade 10
Challenge Award
It was Amelie's first year in the Debate Club, and she managed to qualify for semi-finals in both the autumn and spring tournaments in Impromptu and Oratory - very difficult events. In addition to being a naturally excellent public speaker, Amelie is hardworking and responsible. She is considerate to all and puts others before herself, demonstrating a strong commitment to her community.
Reed Lucke - Grade 10
Lead Award
This historian took on the challenge of co-leading the History Club. He proactively sent emails to keep students informed, organized material for meetings and allowed the club to be truly student led. In addition to the organizational skills that Luca and Reed have demonstrated as leaders of the History Club, they have also excelled at being infectiously fun because of their collegiality together and their enthusiasm for history and competing.
Giacomo Nunziata - Grade 10
Learn Award
Giacomo is described by his PE teacher as the most enthusiastic learner he has ever encountered. He listens carefully and not only tries to develop and use the correct techniques, but insists that his partners/teammates do so too. His energy is always positive and he sets the right tone for the class in terms of learning focus. His written papers always reflect the time that he has spent developing a clear understanding of the rules and tactics relevant to each sport.
Ruby Nwose - Grade 11
Lead Award
Ruby is an amazingly calm and collected person who cares deeply about her values and has sought to pursue her passions within ZIS as a leading voice for diversity. She has participated in several online forums as well as in the GIN conference. Her goal is to make others more aware of racism and to provide support for those who are involved in anti-racism. She has been a Leader in this and has challenged herself. Ruby spoke to faculty about BLM, has taken this subject matter to explore in the AP2D class and gently pushed us to think more deeply about racism. As co-leader of Inter/Action this year, her leadership skills (especially during COVID) have really shone through.
Corinne Pace - Grade 10
Learn Award
Corinne has consistently shown a dedication to her studies, especially in Science. This dedication has helped her to perform very well on assessments but shows a true value to learning and understanding the material. She shares this passion for learning with other students and helps these classmates also improve.
Luca Pagliara - Grade 10
Lead Award
This historian took on the challenge of co-leading the History Club. He proactively sent emails to keep students informed, organized material for meetings and allowed the club to be truly student led. In addition to the organizational skills that Luca and Reed have demonstrated as leaders of the History Club, they have also excelled at being infectiously fun because of their collegiality together and their enthusiasm for history and competing.
Emily Ringger - Grade 9
Care Award
Transitioning to a new school is difficult. In relation to this, Emily has stepped up and has welcomed multiple new students who started ZIS midyear. She has offered help, support and even given a prospective student a tour. The new students and families are grateful for the positive and warm welcome they received.
Alice Romagna - Grade 10
Learn Award
Alice enthusiastically took on the challenge of creating a vintage travel poster taken from her family's ski holiday to Scoul. Her design composition, color choice, and proficiency with the digital program resulted in a travel poster worthy of any gift shop in the area and set the tone for the quality that can and should be expected from her peers. Alice did not stop here. She took what she learned from this project one step further on her own and created two more travel style posters from photos of previous family vacations taking this project way above and beyond expectations.
Lucia Saunders - Grade 11
Challenge Award
Lucia and Alice took on the challenge (at the last minute) to attend the Zurich MUN conference. They thoroughly studied their topics, wrote multiple-position papers and even managed to organize the conference without missing their Geo IA fieldwork collection. This was our first time attending the conference, and they were stars in their committees. They successfully debated global issues with Swiss Matura students and students from the University of Zurich. With a small group of fellow students, she presented about the service work they do here at ZIS to international school students from around the world at the Global Issues Network (GIN) Regional Conference to inspire youth to take action about global concerns.
Savannah Schönenberger - Grade 9
Learn Award
Savi really deserves recognition for her learning in Semester 2 in History. She has challenged herself, overcome difficulties and has stepped up to participate actively in class. Her effort is positively contributing to her learning and the learning of others. Keep it up!
Isabella Sanchez Robayo - Grade 11
Care Award
Isabella is one of the souls of all the events that the Barefoot foundation creates. I think she is a student who actively and meaningfully pursues the CARE value. With a small group of fellow students, she presented about the service work they do here at ZIS to international school students from around the world at the Global Issues Network (GIN) Regional Conference to inspire youth to take action about global concerns.
Caroline Smith - Grade 12
Challenge Award
Carrie's writing is always excellent, engaging, and ethical - no matter the topic she is treating or the text-type she is producing. In her words, as in her art, she pushes boundaries, crosses boundaries, erases boundaries, thus challenging herself and her audience.
Soojin Sung - Grade 10
Learn Award
Soojin is recognised by her peers as a learner. She has applied herself to academic excellence in all of her classes, including several challenging classes. Yet, she works happily with anyone and is incredibly patient. Her smile and positive attitude is a benefit to all.
Noa Tali Levi - Grade 12
Learn Award
This remarkable student was taking the full IB diploma, but last year she also began to drop into the IB Philosophy class, purely out of interest. Eventually she came to all classes, completed all assignments and took all tests, although this was not one of her IB subjects. She simply became an unofficial member of the class. In other words, she took the class simply out of a love of learning. When the IB Philosophy class was shut down this year, one IB Philosophy student had to meet the teacher for tutoring sessions. But this remarkable student, who was not officially taking Philosophy, also began turning up for the tutoring sessions. At ZIS we want to create lifelong learners who are intrinsically motivated. Noa Tali Levi is exemplary in this respect, as she is motivated purely by her passion for the philosophy and her love of learning.
Julia Wydrych - Grade 11
Care Award
Julia is recognised as a caring friend. She extends this care to global issues as president of Amnesty International and as a member of Rainbows 4 Children. Julia welcomed new students to the ZIS community as a Student Ambassador and serves the student body through NHS.
Aleksandr Zelenskii - Grade 10
Learn Award
Throughout the year, Sasha has shown a keen interest in Science. With the introduction of every new topic, he is actively engaged and pushes his understanding through asking questions and making connections. Sasha arrives at each class excited to engage in the subject and motivates others to learn along with him.
Sheraz Zingraff - Grade 11
Learn Award
Sheraz strives to make the most out of each and every class. In her Math class, she has learned all the material, even the more obscure/subtle aspects. Her persistent pursuit of excellence is impressive. Her peers describe her as the most caring person in every room, always putting others before herself and always encouraging and reassuring others that we can do it! Sheraz's presence helps make ZIS' learning environment and community a better place each and every day.