Photo courtesy of Kamau Kegler ’27
Whether it’s on the sports field, in the classroom, or in the pews, the Episcopal Academy’s chapel theme, “To whom much is given, much is required,” invites a new outlook for the 2026-2027 school year.
To decide on this year’s chapel theme, Reverend Michael Palmisano and Father Gavin led a long process that involved the perspectives of a variety of EA community members. Many themes are selected by selected by students, faculty, and staff. They are subsequently by the Lower and Middle School Chapel Council, as well as the Upper School Vestry. Then, in a late spring morning, the groups meet and vote on which theme is selected. The process allows the entire EA community to be involved.
While the theme has to be universal and apply to all grades, the Vestry also wanted something different from previous years. Vestry member Katy Schuck ’28 says, “Our biggest concern was deciding on something that had room for interpretation and contributed to [unique] senior speeches.” The chosen theme does this exceptionally well; there are many different ways to view the theme. Seniors can decide on a multitude of ways to examine their own lives through the lens of this idea, from the dance studio to the football field.
Because of this versatility, the chapel theme provides an incredibly humbling and powerful perspective for the EA community. It is important for EA students to recognize the privileged position they are in, to look around at the beautiful campus, the supportive community, and recognize they have the opportunity and the resources to make the world around them a better place. The stripe of Gratitude reinforces this idea, further adding to the depth of the message.
Palmisano explains his own analysis of the theme, “Everyone has been given a gift or multiple gifts, things that they haven’t earned; they were simply given to them on the merit of being alive and being a part of a community. Therefore, they have a responsibility to the world around them to share those gifts.” The chosen theme is a well-selected encapsulation for Episcopal’s multifaceted and talented student body. Abby Stankewicz ’28 states, “At the very least, try your best. You’re going to a school where you’re expected to do well, and if you don’t always do your best, at least make an effort.”
Senior Warden of the Vestry Ryan Harrar ’27 offers a different insight on the theme: “Throughout the school year, [the theme] will help our students realize not everyone gets the opportunity to learn at their Episcopal Academy.” In addition to emphasizing EA’s students’ strengths, it also reminds them to be thankful for a strong education and to take advantage of the privilege.
Schuck takes a more service-based approach; she says, “To me, [the theme], is much bigger than [one person]. While yes, much is given to [us students, we also] have to take advantage of those things to provide for others… who aren’t blessed with the advantages that we have.”
Harrar gives a reminder that all students, regardless of if they’re in Vestry or giving a senior speech, are encouraged to come up with their own interpretations of the theme. She says, “[I’m] excited to hear other people’s reflections on this theme.”
Photo courtesy of @eachapel
Though the theme is a new addition to the community, it has always subconsciously been present throughout EA students. Palmisano observes, “[Many students try] new things, like trying new sports, trying new clubs and trying new classes.” As students embark on these new journeys, they discover new hobbies and curiosities.
Palmisano also offers his perspective on how the theme fits into his own pursuit: running. He says, “[Running became] an outlet for me to find joy, and [we would] also like to invite other people into that kind of joy.” The theme doesn’t have to be a grand gesture or talent, but can merely be carried out in simple everyday tasks.
Ultimately, the theme, “To whom much is given, much is required,” is intended to spread a feeling of belonging throughout the community. Palmisano says,“[My] hope is that everyone sees that they are a gift; that they’re needed [and welcomed] here… [their] gifts will strengthen the fabric of the community.”
The new chapel theme is not just a simple motto or phrase, but an extension of the EA community. When students analyze it thoroughly and apply it to their lives, significant growth in mind, body, and spirit occurs throughout the community.