Aaron Jia Wins Shield Award

Named in honor of Richard A. Hayne—the longtime SCH board chair—the Shield Award was presented at the 2026 Commencement ceremony for the sixth time since its inception in 2019. The award recognizes a senior “who has expanded their full academic and personal potential while leading a life characterized by thoughtfulness, integrity, and a quest to effect positive change.” 

This year, Head of School Steve Druggan presented the honor to graduate Aaron Jia. Dr. Druggan praised Jia as "a scholar who prioritizes content mastery over grades" and "pursues his full academic and personal potential with a courageous and resilient spirit that refuses to back down from a challenge."

According to the award citation, Jia displayed an "intellectual fearlessness" best demonstrated by his independent scientific research, which has led him to author professional journal articles and present at advanced conferences. 

A leader in squash, Space Club, and robotics, he also dedicated his senior year to mentoring younger students. Jia leaves behind a legacy of lifting others up, proving that true leadership is about empowering the next generation to succeed.