June 25, 2025
This year’s Brightman Award was presented to Ayomide Ajakaiye, CA ‘19, a John Burroughs School senior headed to Columbia University. The award honors a City Academy alumni who demonstrates academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to giving back. Ayomide has done all that and more — from leading a regional Model UN conference to interning at a top law firm in Nigeria, to returning regularly to City Academy as a mentor, tour guide, and even a guest lecturer in 5th and 6th grade.
“From the day she arrived on the John Burroughs School campus, Ayomide has had a profound and positive impact on every single member of this community,” said Andy Abbott, Head of School at Burroughs. “She is truly one of a kind.”
Ayomide also served as this year’s alumni speaker, reflecting on the importance of perseverance and support. “There will be times when no one can help you — because they haven’t been through that experience themselves,” she told the graduating class. “During these tough moments you have to know your ‘why.’ Why do you work hard? Why do you want to be your best?”
She closed by officially welcoming the Class of 2025 into the alumni community and encouraged them to continue leaning on the people who helped shape them: “Remember your integrity, effort, and the way you treat others will always define your journey.”