Luke R. ’26 Named "The Three A's" February Honoree

At Friends, our students are encouraged to be well-rounded and explore a variety of activities in academics, athletics, and the arts. This is true in many schools, but at Friends, our schedules are designed to allow our students to participate fully in each activity. We give them time and space to pursue their academic interests and extracurricular passions. Our “freedom within structure” approach provides a clear framework that empowers student agency and fosters deep, meaningful engagement. It’s what a Friends education is all about.

This year, our Athletics Department, in partnership with faculty members, is highlighting athletes who exemplify what it means to excel in "the three A's." 

Congratulations to February’s honoree, Luke R. ’26!

Athletics: Luke R. ’26 is a four-year varsity starter and senior captain for the wrestling team whose work ethic on the mat has inspired dozens of other wrestlers over the years, but the integrity and dedication he shows off the mat are just as impressive. Luke often volunteers for local causes and consistently goes above and beyond for his fellow students and teammates. Rarely absent from practice and always thinking ahead, Luke provides a rock-solid foundation for the team. 

In the coming months, he will help lead the Quakers through one of the toughest conference tournaments in the state, before setting his sights on a podium finish at the Maryland State Championships. Varsity wrestling coach Patrick Lloyd lamented, “Luke represents everything a wrestler strives to be: a humbly confident leader with an unrelenting drive to improve. It’s hard to imagine the team without him, and we can’t wait to give it our all for his final season.”

Academics: Luke’s athletic achievements are only part of his incredible story. He is a phenomenal student and has been throughout his time at Friends. Luke approaches each class with enthusiasm and genuine intellectual curiosity. In addition, Luke serves as an outstanding senior class co-president, leading his peers with school spirit, responsibility, and stewardship. Josh Carlin, 12th Grade Dean, shared, “It is such an honor to work with him each day.”  

Arts: Beyond the mat and the classroom, Luke is one of the most thoughtful and empathetic young adults in our community. He is deeply involved in music and theater, often working behind the scenes to ensure others succeed, never seeking the spotlight for himself. Kirsten Walsh, Performing Arts Department Head, noted, “Luke is the steady foundation and backbone of everything he’s involved in.”

Luke is a tremendous asset to the music department, generously offering his time and talents for the greater good of the program. Wade Zagurski, Music Director, added, “Luke played the guitar in Jazz Ensemble for three years until we needed additional trombones. Recognizing the need for low brass, Luke taught himself trombone over the summer and now plays second trombone in Jazz Ensemble. He always offers a helping hand and leads by example- whether it’s meeting a musical need, providing tech support, or moving equipment.”