Celebrating the Impact of Capstone Projects: A Senior Reflection

As the Class of 2025 at Cannon School embarked on the final phase of their academic journey in Upper School, one of the most significant milestones in their education was the Capstone presentation. Capstone projects, designed to allow students to reflect on their time at Cannon and contribute something meaningful to the school community, not only marked the culmination of their academic careers but also provided them with an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. 

Capstone is a signature learning experience for seniors involving three core components: brainstorming and planning, developing the project deliverable, and presenting the work to the community. Starting in November, seniors began reflecting on their most impactful learning experiences and accomplishments, with guidance from their advisors. Through this introspective process, students explored how their individual passions could make a difference at Cannon or beyond. With the help of mentors, they designed a project that aligned with their skills and interests, aiming to have a tangible impact. 

The deliverable phase, which took place over the winter and spring months, was the heart of the Capstone experience. This is where students dove deep into their projects, devoting significant time and energy to creating something of value. The form of the deliverable is flexible, but it is expected to be far more than a singular activity—Capstone projects are meant to reflect the students’ intellectual growth and community involvement, ultimately leaving a meaningful mark. 

In April, seniors showcased their work through a 20-minute public presentation, highlighting the goals, process, and outcomes of their projects. These presentations were a celebration of personal growth, intellectual exploration, and community engagement. Members of the Cannon community, including faculty, alumni, parents, and peers, watched and evaluated the presentations, ensuring that the students’ efforts were not only recognized but also contributed to a wider conversation about learning and leadership. 

This year’s Capstone Projects exemplified the diversity of talent, passion, and creativity that defined the Class of 2025. Here are just a few of the remarkable projects: 

Cars for a Cause 
Seniors Cannon Leatherman, Henry Anthony, John Kroll, and James Fisher channeled their love for cars into an event aimed at raising awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research. "Cars for a Cause" brought together car enthusiasts, students, and families for a day of eye-catching vehicles and meaningful conversations. The event was more than just a fundraiser—it was a chance for the students to develop leadership, communication, and event coordination skills while supporting a cause close to their hearts. 

Service Dogs for Mental Health 
Piper Berini and Emma Farley combined their passion for animals with a commitment to mental health by bringing a therapy dog to the Cannon community. Their Capstone project focused on the mental health benefits of therapy dogs, particularly in reducing stress and anxiety among students and faculty. By partnering with the K9 Responder Academy, Piper and Emma not only created a memorable experience but also sparked a broader conversation about the importance of mental health support in schools. 

Rally for HUGS Pickleball Tournament 
A team of seniors—Cameron Carlock, Grant Watkins, Josiah Stewart, Aidan Ristich, and John Murash—organized Cannon’s first-ever pickleball tournament to benefit HUGS Camp, a summer camp for individuals with special needs. The event raised over $700 for the camp while promoting inclusivity and community engagement. The tournament was open to all skill levels, creating a fun and supportive environment for everyone involved. 

Microeconomics at Cannon 
Grant Springate and Bennet Miller took an academic approach to their Capstone, advocating for the introduction of an AP Microeconomics course at Cannon. After conducting extensive research and gathering feedback from alumni, they successfully convinced school leadership to add the class to the curriculum for the upcoming school year. Their perseverance in navigating challenges taught them valuable lessons about advocacy, persistence, and the impact of student-driven change. 

Each Capstone experience served as a testament to the power of reflection, hard work, and community engagement. These projects are not just the end of our seniors’ Upper School careers; they are the beginning of a lifelong commitment to learning, leadership, and giving back.