In honor of National College Decision Day on May 1, the Williams community gathered in the Daren Performing Arts Center to celebrate not only all seniors but also the collegiate athletic commitments of seniors Ally Iacobellis and Jadiel Thomas. Surrounded by classmates, faculty, coaches, family, and friends, both student-athletes were recognized not only for their athletic achievements but also for their academic, character, and leadership qualities—which have earned them great respect from the Williams community that has supported them along the way.
Iacobellis has committed to play lacrosse at Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, while Thomas will continue his basketball career at UConn Avery Point in Groton, Connecticut. Both have left a lasting mark on the Williams athletics program through dedication, perseverance, and leadership.
Director of College Counseling Dana Clark opened the program by highlighting how students can discover their best-fit colleges, noting that for Iacobellis and Thomas, athletics played a central role in that journey. She also emphasized the academic benefits of collegiate athletics, sharing that student-athletes graduate at rates 10–20 percent higher than their peers, due in part to the discipline and structure developed through balancing sport and academics.
Director of Athletics Heather DeLaurentis emphasized the significance of the moment, noting that only 6-7 percent of high school athletes advance to compete at the collegiate level—placing both students among a highly select group nationwide. She also highlighted the long-term impact of athletic participation, sharing that more than 80 percent of former college athletes secure employment at their desired level after graduation. Additionally, she pointed out that 94 percent of women in C-suite leadership roles have participated in sports at some point, with over half having competed at the collegiate level.
A standout on the Girls Varsity Lacrosse team since eighth grade, Iacobellis has built an exceptional athletic career. She has earned multiple All-NEPSAC and All-HVAL honors and, in the 24-25 season, led the team with 72 goals—ranking among the league’s top scorers and serving as a cornerstone of the team’s offense. Beyond athletics, she is an Upper School Ambassador, representing the school in the admissions process, and serves as an Ambassador for the Brian Dagle Foundation, promoting suicide awareness throughout the local community.
Head Coach Tom Hinsch underscored Iacobellis’s impact, not just statistically, but as a leader: “This is the youngest team I’ve ever had here, and this might be the best team. One of the reasons is Ally’s leadership—how she carries herself, how she practices, and how she doesn’t cut corners. She’s a great example for the younger kids, and they’re really following her way.”
Thomas, a tri-sport athlete competing in cross country, basketball, and track, has distinguished himself most prominently on the basketball court. This past season, he averaged 22 points and 12 rebounds per game, earning multiple All-HVAL recognitions and All-NEPSAC honors. He was also named the IAABO Board 8 2026 Scholarship Award winner. Off the court, Thomas dedicates his time to the Community Level Up organization, supporting students and athletes from lower-income families with academic guidance and mentorship.
Head Coach Miles Daniels emphasized Thomas’s character and influence: “Statistics only tell a part of Jadiel’s story. Jadiel is a high-character young man who leads by example on and off the court, his attitude never wavers, and his respect for the game and the people around him is genuine.”
The event also served as a reflection on the broader support system behind each student-athlete’s success. Hinsch encouraged all students to engage beyond athletics and recognize the value of community involvement. He concluded with a message to those in attendance: “Everybody in this room is a support system for these athletes, and they’re not going to accomplish what they’ve accomplished without the help from almost everyone in this room.”
As Iacobellis and Thomas prepare to take the next step in their academic and athletic careers, the Williams community celebrates not only their accomplishments but also the shared commitment, mentorship, and spirit that made their journeys possible.
