StM News

At St. Martin’s Episcopal School, academic excellence is more than a pillar of our mission—it’s a lived value that inspires students to pursue truth, think deeply, and lead with purpose. One of the most distinguished ways we honor this commitment is through our membership in the Cum Laude Society, a global organization that recognizes the top scholars in secondary schools, much like Phi Beta Kappa does at the collegiate level.

Founded in 1906, the Cum Laude Society exists to promote excellence (Areté), justice (Diké), and honor (Timé). With over 380 chapters around the world, membership is granted to schools—not individuals—and each school is entrusted with the responsibility of identifying students who embody the Society’s ideals.

St. Martin’s is proud to hold a Cum Laude chapter, reaffirmed every decade through a rigorous 10-Year Chapter Review to ensure that we uphold the high standards of academic integrity and rigor that define the Society’s mission. This distinction aligns with our 4D curriculum—developing each student in mind, body, spirit, and heart—and reflects our belief that true achievement is rooted in both intellect and integrity.

Each year, the top scholars from our Upper School are nominated for induction into our chapter. These students are selected not just for their exceptional academic records, but also for the character, curiosity, and commitment they demonstrate throughout their educational journey. In keeping with Cum Laude Society guidelines, no more than 20% of a graduating class may be inducted, though some years fewer are selected to preserve the Society’s highest standards.

Cum Laude Society Inductees

This year, we proudly recognize the following members of the Class of 2025 for their extraordinary scholarship: Erin Johnson, Meera Hijazi, Sara Hijazi, Savannah Westacott. We also celebrate the achievements of our junior inductees: Aidan Molaison, Alex Scheuermann, and Juliet Whitaker.

Last year’s inductees from the Class of 2025 included: Lillian Bordelon, Jeremy Hua, Cole LaCoste, Isabel Lovera, and Katherine Sossaman.

These students represent the best of St. Martin’s: curious thinkers, disciplined learners, and compassionate leaders. Whether heading toward careers in medicine, law, technology, or the arts, they reflect the lifelong outcomes of a St. Martin’s education—graduates who are not only prepared for college, but for lives of purpose and distinction.