3 Juniors Recognized as Outstanding Student Achievers

Jimmy Diamondidis ‘18

Every interaction with James Diamondidis is an exercise in celebrating the tremendous potential of young people.  As a student, community member, and artist, James has distinguished himself through excellence and achievement at the highest levels.  He is the intellectual and academic leader of Severn’s Class of 2018.  After earning a flawless transcript as a sophomore, James is now enrolled in four Advanced Placement courses and a post-AP math course in linear algebra.  He is almost as well known in our halls as an accomplished actor who regularly plays major roles in Severn’s theatre productions, and as a mainstay on our math and engineering teams.  When not delivering lines on stage, he can be found delivering speeches on the competitive circuit.  Most notably, he finished runner up to the World Champion in the 2016 Optimist International Oratorical Contest.  As one might surmise, his contributions to our newspaper and literary magazine have been invaluable.  He is also an accomplished pianist and painter whose art provides him with both an expressive outlet and the opportunity to consider new perspectives.  James is the rare student who finds just as much beauty in the question as in the answer, and never wastes an opportunity to ruminate upon either.

Benjamin Elstner ‘18

Benjamin Elstner has long distinguished himself as one of Severn’s most accomplished students, and he has compiled one of the strongest academic records in the junior class.  Benjamin has also made a mark at Severn as a highly talented musician; his deft, subtle, and rich contributions on the alto saxophone are highlights of our Instrumental Ensemble performances.  His most notable commitments, however, are largely hidden from the view of our school community.  Benjamin is a dedicated ice hockey player.  Severn does not have a hockey team, and so most of us never get the chance to witness his athletic prowess.  More meaningful than hockey, however, is Benjamin’s work with the Refugee Youth Project in Baltimore.  Last summer, he had the opportunity to assist with a National Geographic Photo Camp in Shenandoah, Virginia.  Moved by the experience and the stories he heard, Benjamin knew that he had to get involved. Every Monday night, he heads into Baltimore to volunteer with recently arrived Burmese refugees.  He helps them with their homework and their English, and takes great satisfaction playing a role in their future success in their new home.  Benjamin will always be connected to the larger world outside his comfort zone, and his work with the Refugee Youth Project has only cemented his drive to make meaningful contributions to society.

Jane Huang ‘18

One of Severn’s top students, Jane Huang has been particularly drawn to writing and the abstraction of the humanities.  Literature is a window into the human condition, and history a lens through which to understand ourselves.  Though she enjoys her AP Chemistry and Honors Biology courses, she relishes the opportunity to debate ideas in AP English and AP US History.  As successful as she has been academically, however, Jane has truly made her mark as an extraordinary violinist whose talents saw her named to the All-State Orchestra this year.  Jane’s story is not one of mere talent, however – it is also a tale of service and contribution.  As Vice President of the Class of 2018, she plays an instrumental role in coordinating events and ensuring the class leaves its mark on Severn School.  Jane had an internship at the State’s Attorney Office in Annapolis last summer.  She is well suited for her tentative interest in a legal career, where her analytical mind and creativity will serve as invaluable tools to advance American jurisprudence.