Senior Awards Announced
On Thursday, May 28, 2026, 110 young men donned white dinner jackets and took the stage in the Ida M. and Cecil H. Green Commencement Theater. As St. Mark’s recognized the incredible Marksmen of the Class of 2026, Eugene McDermott Headmaster David W. Dini presented the three major School prizes with the following remarks.
The Headmaster’s Cup is awarded by the Headmaster with the advice of the faculty to the senior who best exemplifies the traits that St. Mark’s seeks to foster in its students: the quest for excellence, intellectual curiosity and commitment, service to the School and community, and concern for others.
The Headmaster’s Cup is awarded by the Headmaster with the advice of the faculty to the senior who best exemplifies the traits that St. Mark’s seeks to foster in its students: the quest for excellence, intellectual curiosity and commitment, service to the School and community, and concern for others.
This Marksman is a “servant leader” more focused on advancing the community around him than just about any young person I have encountered in more than three decades at this school. No fanfare or encouragement needed; he simply does what needs to be done, clearly understanding the intrinsic value of character and leadership. He has committed himself to Lion & Sword, Rays of Light, Student Alumni Association, and TELOS, served as Water Polo team captain, and so much more. A teacher called him “a spark in the classroom and energy, creativity, and positive leadership across the entire campus. Earlier this evening, we welcomed him to this stage as the President of the Class of 2026, and then recognized him as the Salutatorian. And now it is my great pleasure to present the 2026 Headmaster’s Cup to Andrew Zhang.
The School Flag is awarded by the faculty and presented by the Head of Upper School to a senior for loyalty, dedication, and distinguished service to the School.
This year’s honoree has made his presence felt on every corner of this campus. He’s shown up every single day with purpose, conviction, and a genuine desire to serve. His peers and faculty alike respect him for his “strength, his integrity, and his loyalty.” He lifts others up and strives to make a difference everywhere he goes, bringing genuine energy, enthusiasm, and determination. A dedicated scholar and fierce competitor, he has led with thoughtfulness, intensity, and perseverance. In and out of the classroom, he has demonstrated not only what it means to be a Marksman, but what it means to be a good man. The 2026 recipient of the School Flag is this year's Student Body President, Adam Dalrymple.
The J.B.H. Henderson Citizenship Cup is awarded by the faculty and presented by the Head of Upper School to the senior who has genuine concern for others and is dedicated to the ideals of honor and justice.
A Marksman who joined us in fifth grade, he is respected by teachers and classmates alike. He inspires others and naturally exhibits grace and humility. Thoughtful, resilient, and kind, he elevates every interaction. One colleague noted that he demonstrates “the type of leadership that brings out the best in others.” Community Service Board, Chapel Council, Lion & Sword, devoted journalist, Varsity lacrosse captain, and dedicated servant in the broader Dallas community – this Marksman has invested himself fully both on and off campus. Thoughtful, determined, and kind, he’s a young man of genuine character and makes a positive difference wherever he goes. It is an honor to present the 2026 J.B.H. Henderson Citizenship Cup to Weston Chance.
Additionally, several students received Faculty Special Awards for living out the ideals of the School and contributing to the betterment of others. David W. Dini announced the following 2026 recipients: Max Bean, Riggs Bean, Cooper Guiler, Benjamin Hernandez, Nathaniel Hochman, Everett Jin, David McAtee, Neil Rakheja, Ailesh Sadruddin, Ronen Verma, and Ethan Yau.
-
-
-
Andrew Zhang ’26
-
Adam Dalrymple ’26
-
Weston Chance ’26
-
St. Mark’s School of Texas
10600 Preston Road
Dallas, Texas 75230
214-346-8000
Dallas, Texas 75230
214-346-8000
About Us
St. Mark’s School of Texas is a private, nonsectarian college-preparatory boys’ day school for students in grades 1 through 12, located in Dallas, Texas. St. Mark’s aims to prepare young men to assume leadership and responsibility in a competitive and changing world.
St. Mark’s does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin.
St. Mark’s does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin.
