Holton Students Earn International Recognition Through Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Holton proudly celebrates six seniors who have earned the Bronze Level of The Duke of Edinburgh’s (DOE) International Award USA—a globally recognized youth development program that encourages participants ages 14-24 to set personal goals, step outside their comfort zones, and develop leadership, resilience, and confidence through experiences beyond the classroom. 

Seniors Pallavi D., Sophia K., Hannah W., Sky Z., Yvonne Z., and Maggie S. completed the Bronze level which requires a sustained time commitment across four core sections: Service (making a positive impact through sustained volunteer work), Skills (developing talents, interests, and personal passions), Physical Recreation (building motivation, endurance, and lifelong healthy habits), and Adventurous Journey (collaborating as a team on a challenging expedition in unfamiliar environments).

“So much of the Duke of Edinburgh program is allowing students to step out of their comfort zone in an emotionally and physically safe environment,” said Stephanie Acerra, Upper School Mathematics Teacher and DOE advisor. “Students challenge themselves with things they’ve often never tried before, and there’s an incredible sense of pride and accomplishment at the end.”

For many students, the Adventurous Journey became one of the most memorable parts of the experience. At the end of 10th grade, the group completed a two-day backpacking trip through Shenandoah National Park, carrying everything they needed, planning their routes, and leading the way themselves. Along the journey, students also explored the environmental principle of “Leave No Trace,” deepening both their appreciation for nature and their sense of responsibility to it.

“I had never truly backpacked or camped before, so it was an incredible learning experience,” shared Pallavi D. “It gave me a chance to truly appreciate nature in a way I never had before.”

Sophia K. was initially drawn to the program because of the outdoor adventure component. “I had an amazing time on our backpacking trip, and I definitely got closer with my peers,” she said.

For Hannah W., the Award inspired new experiences beyond the trail. “The ‘learning a new skill’ requirement pushed me to try voice lessons for the first time,” she said. “Logging my hours of self-improvement made me more conscious of my goals and how I’m working to achieve them.”

Through pursuing the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award USA, Holton students join a worldwide community of young people committed to leadership, service, and personal growth, while continuing to embody Holton’s spirit of challenge, courage, and lifelong learning.