Whether they were flying drones, staging original plays, or studying prison education reform, seniors from this year's certificate program class recently presented the culmination of their two-year journey. At this year’s Capstone Celebration, eight seniors defended their research and creative work, offering a window into their passions.

Pomfret’s Certificate Program allows independent-minded students to immerse themselves in a topic of personal significance. By completing a self-directed course of study, they earn a diploma distinction in one of six domains: Artistic Expression and Design, Character and Leadership, Global Citizenship and Awareness, Social Justice, STEM Exploration, or Sustainability. 
The program emphasizes interdisciplinary study, independent learning, and real-world problem solving, preparing students to lead and thrive in a connected, inclusive society. Students in the program showcased their learning, skills, and growth through portfolio-based assessment and a final oral defense. 

While earning a STEM Exploration certificate, Tyler Bousquet ’25 established an aerial photography business. He discovered his passion during Project: Pomfret, spending two weeks of his sophomore year filming and editing drone footage — an experience that inspired him to explore the medium further. He achieved his Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, developed an LLC, and began taking on clients in real estate and parks and recreation. Beyond the filming and editing images he captured with his drone, Tyler learned the ins and outs of running a business — including advertising, filing taxes, and invoicing clients.

In her pursuit of a Global Citizenship and Awareness certificate, Ming McCarter ’25 studied prison education. Inspired by her Advanced American Studies: Criminal Justice and the Bard College Initiative, she researched mass incarceration and access to secondary and higher education. Next year, she will continue her studies at Loyola University Chicago, where she has been awarded a full academic scholarship and has been selected to participate in the Loyola Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program. In addition to her research at Loyola, Ming will work with Northwestern University’s Prison Education Program.

While most seniors have quietly been pursuing their certificate behind the scenes, much of Kylie Corrigan and Nat Kikonyogo’s exploration has taken center stage — literally. While earning an Artistic Expression and Design certificate, Kylie and Nat have shared their talents on the stage of Hard Auditorium in musical and theater productions, and in Chapel and Strong Field House in solo and group performances. Kylie took her exploration of musical theater a step further by participating in two summer theater workshops at Northwestern University and performing a solo recital of songs from musicals. Nat created three original plays, staging two productions during Project: Pomfret, and helped others showcase their talents by coordinating two cabaret nights, accompanying each performer on piano. 

“Our seniors have spent the past two years conducting research, iterating projects, collaborating with professionals in the field, exploring new and exciting curriculum, and reflecting on all the ways their learning experiences have influenced their work,” said Director of Academics Tanya Nongera-Nickerson. “I remain in awe of all they have accomplished.”

Before the presentation of projects, a dozen juniors showcased their work-in-progress. We can’t wait to see how Angelin Ma ’26 continues to explore teaching astronomy to children, Aziz AbdullaZoda '26 aims to uplift the economy in underdeveloped countries, and Ethan Offei-Addo '26 creates a model for the establishment of equitable social policies as they continue to pursue their certificates in their senior year. As juniors shape their projects, one thing is clear: the Certificate Program fosters not only expertise but purpose. With curiosity as their compass, these students are poised to make meaningful contributions — at Pomfret and beyond.

See more pictures from the Certificate Program Capstone Celebration

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