Lehigh Valley Academy is proud to highlight the accomplishments of an extraordinary member of our graduating class: Simon Hume, Class of 2025. As Simon prepares to begin the next chapter of his journey at Northeastern University, where he’ll be studying mechanical engineering (admitted to a school with just a 7% acceptance rate), we reflect on the lasting impact he’s made at LVA and the bright future ahead of him.
From his earliest days at LVA—having attended since kindergarten—Simon has embodied the IB Learner Profile traits and consistently demonstrated the 12 Attitudes that are central to an IB education. His time here has been marked by a commitment to being principled, caring, balanced, reflective, open-minded, communicative, and knowledgeable, just to name a few.
Simon’s dedication, curiosity, and perseverance speak volumes about the kind of learner—and person—he is. He explored the full IB Diploma Programme (DP), embracing a rigorous academic curriculum designed to develop internationally minded individuals who recognize their shared humanity and responsibility to make the world a better place.
His academic achievements are vast and impressive. Simon graduated Magna Cum Laude, maintaining a GPA of 3.60–4.14 throughout his entire high school career. He was recognized as a Scholar-Athlete, earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher while participating in sports during his senior year. He also served as President of Mu Alpha Theta, the National Mathematics Honor Society, and was an active member in:
- National Art Honor Society
- RHO KAPPA National Social Studies Honor Society
- Science National Honor Society
- National Honor Society
- National English Honor Society
- Spanish National Honor Society (Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica)
Simon doesn’t just exemplify what it means to be an inquirer and thinker—he leads by example and takes initiative in everything he does. Athletically, he has shown commitment, teamwork, and sportsmanship through his involvement in lacrosse, cross country, and as a team manager for the girls’ basketball team.
His excellence in lacrosse led to two of the most prestigious honors from USA Lacrosse:
- Academic All-American, awarded to student-athletes who shine both on the field and in the classroom
- Bob Scott Award, given to just one player per area who best represents the qualities of leadership, character, and service
Simon has also demonstrated the IB attitudes of empathy, respect, integrity, and commitment—not just through his academic and athletic work, but in how he interacts with others and contributes to the LVA community.
This year’s commencement ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievements, but also a moment to honor the legacy of those who have helped shape our school community. During the event, our high school principal, Ms. Nonnemacher, announced the recipient of the Dr. Jennings Scholarship, a new memorial scholarship established in honor of the late Dr. Dan Jennings, beloved Assistant Principal for grades 9–12, who sadly passed away in 2023.
The Dr. Jennings Scholarship is awarded to a student who best represents the core values of the U.S. Air Force, where Dr. Jennings proudly served as a recent retiree of the Air National Guard:
- Integrity First
- Service Before Self
- Excellence in All We Do
While rooted in military tradition, these values align seamlessly with LVA’s own high school motto—Integrity and Effort—as well as key pillars of the IB Programme, particularly the focus on service to others and developing principled, balanced leaders. The presentation of this scholarship served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact Dr. Jennings had on our school and the kind of character we hope to cultivate in all our graduates.
In addition, Simon was recognized as one of four recipients of a $1,500 scholarship from the Education Foundation of Lehigh Valley Academy, generously sponsored by the Lehigh Valley Private Equity Fund. This award was the result of a competitive and anonymous review process, reflecting Simon’s academic excellence, leadership, and potential for continued success in higher education.
As one of only 23 students in the Class of 2025 to have completed Continuous K–12 Enrollment at LVA, Simon’s journey has been one of growth, exploration, and excellence every step of the way.
At LVA, we believe in preparing students not just for college—but for life. The IB Learner Profile is more than a set of values; it’s a framework for becoming a thoughtful, ethical, and globally aware citizen. Simon exemplifies this philosophy. He is ready to take on the world, and we are more than confident he will continue to thrive.
Congratulations, Simon! We can’t wait to hear all that you accomplish.
Lehigh Valley Academy RCS 