The Global Perspectives and Citizenship (GPAC) concentration program is a space for student-driven research. GPAC senior Grace McMiller was recently notified that her article "One State, Two Entities, Three Constituent Peoples: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Failed Attempt at Interethnic Peace" has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Student Research. Grace joins fellow GPAC students Arya Kumar ‘23 and Ali O’Brien ‘23, whose research work was published in November. Like her peers, Grace thrived in the self-directed process, meeting frequently with faculty to discuss her findings and formulate her arguments. She reflects, "GPAC 11 took me through the entire process of developing a strong, argumentative, and pointed research question and seeing it through: funneling through sources, writing, revising, and finally editing a long paper. The process encouraged me to think beyond the headlines and dig deeply into global issues."

Grace examined Bosnia and Herzegovina's attempt to foster state unity following the genocide in 1995. Beginning with a close analysis of the Dayton Accords, Grace explored the operational unity constructed by the unique democratic design, which includes nontraditional elements, such as a three-person consociational presidency. The bulk of Grace's argument focused on exposing how regime design and supporting institutions have failed to promote true democratic traditions as ethnopolitical divisiveness and inequality continue to erode unity within the country. Her study of this complex regime afforded Grace the opportunity to reflect on how institutional design shapes a nation's democratic character.

Congratulations to Grace and her fellow GPAC scholars! Learn more about the GPAC program.

During this Wednesday’s Panther Time, Upper School students gathered to celebrate Black History Month and welcomed journalist and former president of the National Press Club Jeff Ballou. Students from Potomac’s Black Student Union hosted an incredible program, honoring Black History through original spoken word, musical performances, Black art presentations, and commentary on Black media messages within our community. Students were attentive and reflective through these moments of storytelling and celebration. We would like to thank the Parents of Black Students for hosting a delicious community lunch in the Crossroads following the assembly. The jambalaya and other creole specialties were enjoyed by all. View photos and videos from the assembly.

Last month, 23 Upper School band students auditioned for the VBODA District 12 Honor Band, competing against 500 of the top high school band students across Fairfax County. Two of our percussionists were selected to be in the ensemble; Jack Morgan ‘24 placed in the symphonic band, and Ben Schirmeier ‘23 earned a spot in the prestigious wind ensemble. The All-District Band event was held this past weekend. The students rehearsed for three days under the direction of Major Ryan Nowlin of the United States Marine Band and Dr. Caroline Beatty of Texas State University, then performed a concert at Oakton High School. Ben's score also qualifies him to audition for the Virginia All-State Honor Band. Congratulations to our students!

Senior Ben Joel recently won two Silver Key awards in the Scholastic Art and Writing competition. Ben was recognized for his photos “Lost in Thought” and “Lost in Time,” both of which were taken over the summer when he was studying in Amman, Jordan. Winning artworks will be on exhibit in the Ernst Cultural Center Gallery at Northern Virginia Community College's Annandale Campus from February 9 through March 23, 2023. Congratulations to Ben!