News & Events

A hallowed Norfolk Academy tradition continued on April 16 as Aarush Desai '26, David Martin '26, and Aubrey Rowland '26 competed in the Senior Speech Finals. 

Each of NA's 109 seniors prepared a thorough speech presentation during the school year, which teachers graded. Those with the top three scores advanced to the finals.

• Aarush argued in support of universal healthcare. His advisor was Associate Head of School Linda Gorsline.
• David argued against the deployment of federal troops during domestic crises. His advisor was French Teacher Warren Warsaw.
• Aubrey argued for protecting the Constitutional right to due process in the U.S. judicial system for non-citizens. Her advisor was English Department Chair Ari Zito.

Several seniors received recognition in the program for speeches of Distinction: Milla Avery, Vivi Deans, Julia Dodd, Jay Fernando, Uzair Jawad, Cate Lagow, Alex Lawson, Zofia Lehmann, Grace Robertson, Ella Stufflebeem, Caroline Wainger, and Erin Wainger.

A panel of three outside judges select the winner, who is recognized at Graduation with the Class of 1952 award. This year's judging panel:

• Mrs. Jane Batten is a nationally renowned philanthropist and civic leader who has advanced education, environmental stewardship, and community well-being in Hampton Roads, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and beyond. She has transformed education in leadership and experiential learning at Norfolk Academy by endowing the Batten Leadership Program.
• Mr. Zack Glasser '59 has practiced law in Hampton Roads for more than 60 years and is known as an expert in real estate transactions. He earned the distinction of being a speech finalist in his senior year. Mr. Glasser is an active member of the school's Cornerstone Society.
• Mr. John O. Wynne, Jr. '94 is the founder, former CEO, and current Chairman of Fortis Solutions Group, a leading provider of printed packaging solutions. Mr. Wynne has served 11 years on Norfolk Academy's Board of Trustees and is the current Board Chair.