News & Events

Held very early each school year, S. Barron Segar Day brings every student and teacher together to shine a light on Honor. Royster and Tunstall Honor Councils are installed and Upper School students sign the Honor Board.

This year's keynote speaker, John Gibson III '78, NA Trustee and Founder/Managing Partner of Venture Realty Group, spoke powerfully about the influence of teacher-coaches and quoted several who had influenced his life: “On S. Barron Segar Day, I think it is important to acknowledge the bedrock of our school. Though academics are so very important, our purpose is not merely about performing in the classroom. I would argue that forming good citizens in an atmosphere of sound learning is our Academy's primary mission. What makes us unique is our secret sauce, and our secret sauce is coaching honor, character, and integrity."

Catherine Adams '27, Tunstall Honor Council Chair spoke about the partnership between faculty and students that keeps the Honor System strong and builds a united community: “Our strengths are not solely measured by grades, but more broadly by the way we treat ourselves, each other, and those we disagree with. So, in this Year of Purpose, let us be intentional in our choices; prioritize having the truthful conversation over the easy one, and make the honorable decision instead of the quick one."

Head of School Travis Larrabee observed that the Honor System “is simultaneously a north star for our individual journeys of integrity and it is the core of our community of trust."

John Benton '27, President of the Tunstall Student Council, gave the Invocation. Charlie Kotarides '33, President of the Manning Student Council, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Addison Tajan '27 sang the National Anthem and Louisa Kotarides '30, President of the Royster Student Council, gave the Benediction.

“Help us to remember that a life of purpose is measured not only by what we accomplish, but by the character we demonstrate, the relationships we build, and the positive difference we make in the lives of others," Benton said. 

As always, this year's celebration comes just a few days after the Tunstall Honor Council gave its Opening Message to faculty. The  message focused on a hot topic everywhere today: Artificial Intelligence. Adams noted that there are no clear-cut answers in the debate over acceptable uses of AI, but that the council would strive to be more transparent in explaining its case process and would work closely with teachers to navigate the complexity.

“We acknowledge that AI is pervasive and not going away," she said. "However, our hope is that students can see the value in learning to do work themselves and take pride in their own efforts."

The 2026-27 Tunstall Honor Council

• Catherine Adams '27, Chair
• Evan O. '27
• Logan R. '27
• Veer D. '28
• Ellie T. '28
• Matthew B. '29
• Max W. '29  

Adams' full remarks from S. Barron Segar Day: "Good morning. I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude to Mr. Larrabee, Mrs. Gorsline, Mr. Gibson, Mr. Perry, the board of trustees, and our faculty and staff. Thank you for both planning this gathering and for your continued commitment to the Honor System, a fundamental piece in our school’s community of trust.

Starting on the first day of school each year, first graders pat the Bulldog, a gesture symbolizing their entrance into Norfolk Academy. From that moment, they themselves have officially donned the title Bulldog. With this, they earn the shared responsibility to uphold our Honor System, for it belongs to all of us -- from the newest faces on campus to those returning one final time as seniors. Though it starts with a pat on the Bulldog and the shake of a hand, these values instilled in us in Lower School follow us into Middle and Upper School and stay with us long after we leave these walls. Three simple statements can summarize the first and most enduring lesson taught at Norfolk Academy.

First, I will do my own work. We are assured that when we complete our work honestly, refrain from receiving outside assistance, and put in meaningful effort, it is enough. A pillar of the Norfolk Academy experience, we are not merely here to recite facts, but to learn to think critically and originally.

Second, I will tell the truth. Honesty is the foundation of every relationship here. Whether seeking help from a teacher or setting goals with a coach, it is apparent in every interaction. Everyday we strive to build these connections and embrace the culture of trust and mutual respect that defines our community. This trust is not only given; it must also be earned. Stay true to your word, and remember that your actions carry weight; they reflect your character.

Third, I will not take things that belong to others. We respect our classmates' belongings in the open lockers, and have confidence that a backpack left in the hallway will be there when we return. The level of trust we place in each other is a cornerstone of our experience.

In Middle and Upper School, the motto changes, but the message remains clear. I have acted honorably in the completion of this assignment, is written and signed across every graded assignment. A small reflection that the work we are handing in is our own.

From these seemingly small sayings, a larger statement can be made about us and our community; we keep honor at the center of our actions. We learn the core subjects -- math, science, English, history, and foreign language -- but we simultaneously develop our character. Our strengths are not solely measured by grades, but more broadly by the way we treat ourselves, each other, and those we disagree with. So, in this Year of Purpose, let us be intentional in our choices; prioritize having the truthful conversation over the easy one, and make the honorable decision instead of the quick one. Thank you."