As the school year comes to a close, the Aquinas Institute of Rochester proudly gathered to celebrate a meaningful milestone for the Class of 2026: the continuation of their academic and athletic journeys at the collegiate level.
Families, coaches, teammates, friends, and members of our AQ community came together to honor a remarkable group of student-athletes who have committed to compete at the next level. The event highlighted not only their success in competition, but also their dedication, character, and commitment to Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge.
A special thank you goes out to all who helped make this celebration so memorable, including our parents, coaches, friends, family members, community, and members of the local media who always support and uplift our student-athletes throughout their journeys. We are especially grateful to President Dave Eustis, Principal Ted Mancini ’88, P’26, Athletic Director Anthony Bianchi ’81, and Associate Director of Athletic Operations Collin Wright for their leadership.
We are proud to recognize the following members of the Class of 2026 who will continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level (alphabetical by last name):
Franklin “Frankie” Burgess: SUNY Cortland (Football, DIII) | Red Dragons
Jake Gibson: Canisius University (Lacrosse, DI) | Griffs
Corey Goodwin: St. John Fisher University (Track & Field, DIII) | Cardinals
Celvin Kirkland: Thiel College (Track & Field, DIII) | Tomcats
Ryan Lewin: SUNY Niagara (Baseball, Junior College) | Thunderwolves
Jeffery Logan III: Central Connecticut State University (Football, DI) | Blue Devils
Ajaya Orr: Daemen University (Basketball, DII) | Wildcats
Aiyanah Reed: Nazareth University (Tennis, DIII) | Golden Flyers
Logan Schimmel: SUNY Brockport (Lacrosse, DIII) | Golden Eagles
Julianna Shannon: Russell Sage College (Soccer, DIII) | Gators
Savannah Sweet: Roberts Wesleyan University (Soccer, DII) | RedHawks
Haley Wegman: Syracuse University (Cheerleading, DI) | Orange
Addison Whipple: Elmira College (Softball, DIII) | Soaring Eagles
Caleb Wood: Molloy University (Lacrosse, DII) | Lions
These student-athletes embody what it means to be Aquinas: dedication, resilience, faith, and a strong sense of community. Congratulations to the Class of 2026! While we will miss them, we are excited for all that lies ahead and confident they are truly College Prepared. Life Ready. #AQProud
To view all photos from the celebration, visit our website Gallery or CLICK HERE!