ESD Celebrates 45th Annual Junior Ring Ceremony
May 13, 2025
The school year is wrapping up, Eagles. As part of our end-of-year traditions, we held the Junior Ring Ceremony to honor the Class of 2026 as they step into their roles as rising seniors, becoming the new caretakers of our cherished community.
A deeply meaningful tradition that spans generations, the Ring Ceremony stands as a powerful rite of passage. It is a celebration not only of academic accomplishment but also of character, connection, and calling of the upcoming senior class. Introduced in 1979 and now marking its 45th annual ceremony, this event is symbolic of the legacy left behind by Father Swann.
Each year, students are invited to reflect on the values that shape an ESD education: daily worship (religio), sound learning (erudito), and self-discipline (disciplina). These three guiding principles are represented by the three crosses on both the school crest and the school ring. These are not mere markings; they are daily reminders of the life we are called to lead.
The design of the ring itself is steeped in history and meaning. It was modeled after the family ring of The Reverend Canon Donald Henning, the first Chair of ESD’s Board of Directors and a beloved mentor to our Founding Rector and Headmaster, The Reverend Canon Stephen B. Swann. Upon Father Henning’s passing, he gifted the ring to Father Swann—an act of deep devotion to the mission of the school. From that moment on, the ring has become a symbol not just of achievement, but of the eternal bond that links all ESD graduates.
To wear the ESD ring is to step into that history, to honor its legacy, and to join a family that spans across generations. But even for those who choose not to wear it, its meaning remains a part of their story. As Father Henning once said, “The four points of the cross are a reminder of how to live your life: pray every day, study hard, play hard, and be of service to others.”
The Class of 2026 has already shown that they are ready for this charge. With strength, integrity, and a spirit of service, they have grown into leaders among us. As they accept the ring and all it represents, they do so not just for themselves, but for every Eagle who came before—and every one still to come.
Congratulations, juniors!
