Inside Albany Academy

Shirley Stevens French '47 credits Albany Academy for Girls with instilling a lifelong commitment to service, curiosity, and community involvement. A member of a family with deep Academy roots spanning generations, French overcame the challenges of relocating to Alabama during World War II before returning to Girls Academy, where she excelled academically and athletically.

After earning a degree in education, she dedicated her life to teaching, volunteering, and supporting others. Now 96, French continues to serve her community, support Albany Academy through scholarships and archival projects, and inspire younger generations with her belief that lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity are the keys to a meaningful life.

As Albany Academy approaches its next chapter, John Hawn '44 remains one of its most dedicated lifelong supporters. A member of the first kindergarten class in the current Upper School building, Hawn spent 13 years at the Academy before attending United States Military Academy and serving as a pilot in the United States Air Force during the Korean War.

A former athlete, trustee, Alumni Association president, and Outstanding Alumnus Award recipient, Hawn has spent decades giving back to the school through leadership, fundraising, and philanthropy. With family ties spanning generations, he credits the Academy with providing an exceptional education and remains committed to supporting its future.

One hundred and three graduates took their place in Albany Academy history on June 8 and 9, 2026, crossing the stage as members of the 212th graduating class of young women and the 213th graduating class of young men, including six seniors who had spent their entire educational journey at the school.

Albany Academy is excited to announce the digital release of Montgomery & Lafayette Volume 4 (2026), the latest edition of its nationally acclaimed student literary and arts magazine. This annual publication showcases the creative talents of Upper School students, featuring original poetry, short fiction, essays, photography, and visual art.

Congratulations to our Middle School language scholars! Albany Academy students recently earned national recognition, bringing home perfect scores, gold medals, and top honors on both the National Spanish Exam and the National Latin Exam.

Congratulations to the Albany Academy Class of 2026 on an extraordinary accomplishment. We are thrilled to share that 100% of the senior class participated in this year’s Class Gift Campaign, making them the first class in Albany Academy history to achieve this milestone prior to commencement.

This achievement reflects not only the generosity of the Class of 2026, but also the strength and unity that have defined this group throughout their time at Academy. Thank you to all of the families who supported the campaign and helped make this moment possible.

The newest edition of Albany Academy Magazine has officially gone to print and is now available online for our community to enjoy.

This edition celebrates the people, programs, and moments that define Albany Academy. Inside this issue, readers will find a feature story on Head of School Christopher Lauricella P’20, ’22 as the school reflects on his eight-year tenure. Additional stories include an introduction to incoming Head of School Michael Turner, division highlights, and features showcasing the arts and athletics programs.

We are grateful to the many students, faculty, staff, alumnae and alumni, families, and friends whose stories and support help bring this publication to life each year.

Twenty-nine faculty and staff from Albany Academy proudly participated in the 2026 CDPHP Workforce Challenge, a 3.5 mile route starting and ending at Albany's Empire State Plaza. 

Congratulations to all Albany Academy participants!