StM News

The junior class recently marked a significant milestone in their journey toward graduation during the annual Ring Day celebration. This longstanding tradition serves as a bridge between the foundational years of high school and the leadership roles students assume as they enter their final year.

This year, the class welcomed back Ben Bologna, of the Class of 2006, to share reflections on his time in these halls. As a member of the 14-Year Club and class salutatorian, Bologna’s trajectory from a versatile student-athlete to a leader in the global financial sector offers a compelling example of how a rigorous educational foundation prepares graduates for the highest levels of professional success.

Lessons in Connection and Leadership

During his address, Bologna emphasized that while academic and athletic accolades are important, the most enduring element of the experience is the strength of the community. He encouraged the juniors to view their remaining time not just as a series of requirements, but as an opportunity to celebrate one another and deepen the bonds that define the school culture.

Watch his speech in its entirety here

His own background reflects the breadth of opportunity available to students. During his tenure, Bologna was a nationally ranked debater and a four-sport varsity athlete, contributing to a state championship in soccer. This balance of intellectual inquiry and physical discipline is a hallmark of the school’s approach to developing well-rounded individuals.

After graduating with honors from Princeton University, where he continued his athletic career and took on significant leadership roles, Bologna moved into the finance industry. His professional achievements include being named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 in Finance and his current role as a portfolio manager at Citadel. These milestones, along with his 2023 induction into the Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame, serve as a testament to the lifelong impact of an education that values both character and scholarship.

Ring Day is more than the receiving of a piece of jewelry. It is a reminder that every student is part of a legacy of achievement and a community that supports them long after they leave campus.