2025 Junior Book Awards

Lincoln Academy celebrated members of the junior class with its annual Book Awards during the school’s Community Meeting on May 16. Sponsored by colleges and universities across the country, these awards recognize juniors for academic achievement, leadership, service, and school involvement.

Torren Nehrboss received the Bowdoin College Book Award, which recognizes a high school junior who has demonstrated extraordinary service to the common good and an unusual passion for inquiry, discovery, and innovative thinking. Torren was honored for her leadership in environmental advocacy and her intellectual curiosity. A member of the Talon newspaper, Climate Action Club, Lincoln Ambassadors, CHIP, and the Maine Coast Observing Alliance, Torren was recognized for her intellectual curiosity and grit.

Helen Duffy earned the Brandeis University Book Award, given to an outstanding high school junior in the top 15 percent of the class who demonstrates a commitment to civic engagement, service, political activism, social justice, or volunteer work. Helen was recognized for her community-spirited approach to leadership and upbeat, get-the-job-done attitude. She brings her notable organizational abilities to the Talon newspaper, student council, and cross country and track teams.

Trinity Delaney received the College of the Atlantic Book Award, given to a community-minded student who is a steward of change in our social, economic, and environmental systems. Trinity is a strong student who is committed to marine science, and her love for the ocean has guided her academic path in all of her coursework.

Alec Buckley is the recipient of the Dartmouth College Book Award, given to a student in the top 10% of the junior class who has made a significant extracurricular contribution to their school, and is respected by their peers and faculty. Alec is an outstanding math scholar, an athlete on the tennis team and new rugby club, and an all-state violin player.

Amelia Rice received the Smith College Book Award, presented to an outstanding junior who exemplifies the academic achievement, leadership qualities, and concerns for others that characterize the thousands of women who have graduated from Smith College. Amelia is an aspiring journalist who uses her voice to represent truth and serve the school community. A devoted writer for The Talon, she is known for her courage, leadership, and thoughtful engagement in all she does.

Noah Arbuckle earned this year’s St. Lawrence University Book Award, which honors students who have distinguished themselves in their commitment to some aspect of sustainability, climate change, or environmental advocacy. Recipients receive a select book, plus a $4,000 scholarship ($1,000 each year for four years) to attend St. Lawrence University. Noah received this honor for his passion for sustainability and environmental advocacy. Known for his positive energy and kind nature, he approaches every challenge—academic or adventurous—with optimism.

Violet Holbrook received the St. Thomas University Book Award, given to a student in the junior class who has demonstrated leadership and strength in all academic areas, and especially strong writing skills. Violet is a talented essayist, vocalist, and musician. A three-year member of Lincolnaires Honors Choir, she has been invited to perform at state and regional festivals and plans to pursue a career in music therapy or choral conducting.

Julia Dietrick was awarded the Suffolk University Book Award, given to a member of the junior class who exemplifies a commitment to their education and school community. Julia is a dynamic leader whose enthusiasm and academic strength are matched by her deep involvement in school life. Julia is a member of the debate team and Talon staff, and the official school “sports reporter,” who maintains high academic performance in a rigorous course load.

Mercy Buchwalder received the Thomas College Book Award. Mercy is an excellent student and artist, specializing in jewelry and metalsmithing. A top runner on the cross country and track teams, Mercy is active in student government, the National Honor Society, Talon newspaper, and Climate Action Club. The award includes a $2,500 renewable scholarship.

Paytyn Dyer was awarded the Yale University Book Award, which recognizes outstanding high school juniors for their character, leadership, scholarship, and intellectual promise. Patyn was honored for her calm, mature approach to her studies, where she is a “serious and always prepared student, who moves the conversation and learning forward, commanding the respect of her peers and teachers.” Patyn also writes the witty and wise “Talon Tips” column for the student newspaper.