A New Chapter Begins: Class of 2028’s Pin Ceremony

On the beautiful early summer evening of May 27, 2025, the Class of 2028 gathered with family, friends, and Marlborough staculty to commemorate a significant milestone in their Marlborough journey: Pin Ceremony. This beloved tradition, which has marked the transition from Middle School to Upper School since 1961, took on a special significance as the 9th graders prepared to embrace their new role as Upper School students.

Head of School Jennifer Ciccarelli emphasized the transformative nature of this moment: “This moment is more than symbolic—it is a celebration of everything you have accomplished and the remarkable young people you are becoming.” She praised the Class of 2028 as “thoughtful, dynamic, compassionate, and brimming with promise,” noting that their presence on campus has already affected our community for the better.

The evening’s most poignant moments came from the voices of the students themselves. Outgoing Middle School Representative Audrey L. ’28 reflected on three years of shared experiences from “army crawling across the field at the Middle School Sleepover” to “pushing through those history DBQs.” Her words captured the essence of what makes this class special: their unwavering support of one another. “One of my favorite things about our grade is how supportive and dependable everyone is,” shared Audrey, “whether it's cheering each other on during Spirit Week or helping each other prep for a big test.”

Class President Alisha K. ’28 echoed these feelings while highlighting a defining moment from their year. While decorating sunglasses during Spirit Week, the Class of 2028 achieved 100% participation in the day’s activity. “Each member of our class was running all over campus, spreading the word to decorate sunglasses, making sure everyone was included,” Alisha recalled. This spirit of inclusion extended to their victorious performance another Spirit Week activity: tug of war. Their unity and determination led them to victory over the 10th graders. 

The hallmark of the ceremony is the presentation of the Marlborough pins themselves, each engraved with the School’s historic crest. Student Council members took turns explaining the symbolism behind each element: the California grizzly bear representing determination and protective strength, the pine tree honoring founder Mary Caswell’s Maine heritage while symbolizing resilience, the fleur-de-lis embodying growth and vitality, and Hermes representing the collaborative nature of education at Marlborough. 

Looking ahead, incoming Class President Maddie S. ’28 challenged her classmates to continue embracing unity as their foundation. She outlined her vision for a class that “cheers just as loudly for someone else's win as we do for our own.” Her speech marked a turning point from reflection to anticipation, encouraging the class to leave behind divisions and embrace their shared journey forward.

The ceremony concluded with the Class of 2028 singing their Class song, “Night Changes” by One Direction. Middle School Head Dr. Sean Fitts reminded the gathered crowd of the reason behind this choice of song: “When introducing the Class Song at our Colors ASM in the fall, Alyssa N. ’28 said, ‘This song explores the uncertainty and often bittersweet reality of growing up. Just as night gives way to day, we too can embrace new beginnings and opportunities with the resilience and passion that marks the Class of 2028.’” 

Each student received their pin on a lanyard lovingly crafted by parents and guardians in their class colors of alabaster, burgundy, and blossom pink, along with a matching flower corsage. These tangible symbols represent not just academic advancement, but the bonds forged and community built over three transformative years. 

As the Class of 2028 officially joins Marlborough's Upper School, they carry with them the lessons learned, friendships forged, and an unshakeable spirit of unity that will serve them well in the adventures ahead. Their transition from grey to black skirts may be symbolic, but their growth as leaders, scholars, and compassionate community members is unmistakably real.