A Tradition of Scientific Excellence: Honoring Emerging Women in Science at Robert College

At Robert College, excellence in science is shaped not only by achievement, but by a sustained commitment to inquiry — the ability to question, to persist, and to think beyond the expected. Each year, this spirit is recognized through the Excellence in Science for Girls award, presented to an 11th grade student who demonstrates both academic distinction and a genuine engagement with scientific thought.

This year’s recipient stands out for her rigorous approach and intellectual clarity. Her work reflects a careful balance of analytical precision and curiosity, supported by a willingness to engage deeply with complex ideas rather than settling for immediate answers.

The award ceremony was further enriched by the presence of Prof. Dr. Özge Karadağ RC 97, Chair of the Department of Public Health at Bahçeşehir University Faculty of Medicine. Returning to campus as both an alumna and a leading academic, she addressed students with reflections on the evolving landscape of science and the importance of perseverance, interdisciplinary thinking, and public impact.

The award itself carries a longstanding legacy. This year marks the seventeenth presentation of the distinction established in honor of Prof. Seyhan Nurettin Eğe (ACG ’49) — an esteemed educator and scholar in organic chemistry whose work left a lasting impact on the field. Founded in 2009 by his sister, Dr. Güneş Eğe Akter (ACG ’52), the award was created to both recognize outstanding achievement in the sciences and to sustain his memory within the academic community. Although Dr. Akter passed away last year, her vision continues to endure through this meaningful initiative, which is presented annually to a female 11th grade student.

More than a measure of performance, the award highlights a particular mindset — one defined by persistence, independent thinking, and a thoughtful approach to problem-solving. It is this mindset that continues to shape Robert College’s approach to science education, where students are encouraged not only to succeed, but to explore and contribute meaningfully to their fields of interest.

The Excellence in Science for Girls award also reflects the school’s broader commitment to supporting young women in science, fostering an environment in which they can pursue their interests with confidence and envision themselves as part of a wider scientific community.

This year’s recognition marks both an individual achievement and the continuation of a long-standing tradition — one that values curiosity, integrity, and the pursuit of knowledge.

RCIMUN 2026: A Conference Defined by Adaptability

Model United Nations remains an integral part of student life at Robert College, offering students the opportunity to engage with global issues through research, debate, and collaboration. As a THIMUN-affiliated conference, RCIMUN brings together high school students from different schools and countries, creating an international platform for dialogue and exchange.

This year marked the nineteenth session of RCIMUN, held on campus under the theme “In the Wake of Crisis: Rebuilding Trust, Peace, and Prosperity.” In the lead-up to the conference, the organizing team navigated several last-minute changes and adjustments to committee structures and logistics. The team worked quickly to reorganize the conference while maintaining its overall structure and flow, demonstrating strong initiative and flexibility.

Throughout the conference, delegates engaged actively in committee discussions, addressing a range of global topics shaped by the conference theme. Working collaboratively, they developed resolutions while navigating complex questions around cooperation, stability, and shared responsibility. The presence of international schools from the Czech Republic, Azerbaijan, and Thessaloniki added a valuable global dimension, reinforcing RCIMUN’s role as a space for cross-cultural exchange.

The successful realization of this year’s conference reflects the adaptability, commitment and collaborative spirit of the students who continue to shape RCIMUN as a meaningful part of the Robert College experience.

RC Singers Earn Gold in Spain

Performing at the CANTAQUERA – Festival Coral Internacional, the ensemble stood out on an international stage, representing Robert College with distinction.

Music brings RC students together through shared discipline, creativity, and performance, both on campus and beyond, and RC Singers’ latest accomplishment is a fine example of this fact.

RC Singers participated in the CANTAQUERA – Festival Coral Internacional in Antaquera, Spain, achieving remarkable success. Bringing together choirs from different countries, the festival offered a distinguished platform where RC students delivered an outstanding performance, earning a Gold medal and representing Robert College on an international level.

The journey to Spain was made possible in part through the collective support of the Robert College community. During Giving Tuesday in December, alumni and friends came together to support the choir’s participation, reflecting a shared commitment to student experiences in the arts.

Throughout the festival, the ensemble stood out not only for technical precision but also for interpretative depth, stage presence, and strong internal harmony. From repertoire selection to overall performance, RC Singers demonstrated a high level of artistic care, that culminated in success.

This accomplishment reflects the group’s discipline, vision, and collective strength, while also marking a proud moment for the Robert College community.

Bringing Narnia to Life: RC Theater’s Latest Production

Theatre has always been an integral part of life at Robert College. Through the efforts of student clubs and the support of faculty, productions staged throughout the year bring together students from different grades who share an interest in performance, storytelling, and stagecraft. From musicals to dramatic adaptations, these productions not only showcase artistic talent but also create a collaborative space where students contribute both on stage and behind the scenes. Each year, these performances offer alumni, students, and families the opportunity to come together and spend a few hours immersed in the world of theatre.

In March, RC Theater brought C.S. Lewis novel The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to life on stage. Enriched by an original soundtrack written by RC Students Deniz Mahmutoğlu RC 28 and Eren Kural RC 27 and under the artistic direction of Zeynep Su Baysal RC 26, audience members were treated to an original take on this classic.

In addition to staging a raucous battle scene featuring 28 students, Director Jake Becker focused on deepening the motivations of Edmund while highlighting the smaller narrative threads of wolves and nymphs.

Senior Lal played a chilling, twisted White Witch and junior Batuhan brought stoicism and warmth to Aslan. The outstanding costumes were designed by junior Defne Su Baysal and her mother Aslı Özer as well as Lise prep Lina Misili.

Grease Lights Up the RC Stage

 

Named after one of Robert College’s founders, Cyrus Hamlin, the Hamlin Players musical club has long been a beacon of performing arts at RC. Focused on musical theatre, the club brings together students from different grades who share an interest in singing, acting, choreography, and stage production. While the club was once led by a teacher, it is now fully student-run, with students taking responsibility for directing, choreographing, organizing rehearsals, and managing many aspects of the production process. Extensive rehearsals and the strong collaboration of the cast and crew make each performance the result of months of student dedication.

This February, the Hamlin Players brought the iconic musical Grease to the stage for a lively three-day run. As directors, seniors Melih Kanadaşı RC 26, Roni Işıl Uluğ RC 26, and Emre Adaş RC 26 put together an energetic, exceptionally choreographed performance with a huge cast ranging from prep students to seniors.

Highlights included the appearance of a golf cart during “Grease Lightning” and a vibrant school dance scene featuring a spirited rendition of “Born to Hand Jive.” As with all RC productions, students also managed the technical elements of the show, running lights and sound under the direction of Berkman Gülenç.

A Snapshot of Life at Robert College

While the semester break marked a pause in the academic calendar, learning at Robert College continued well beyond the classroom. Throughout the break, our students remained deeply engaged, exploring new ideas, taking initiative, and representing the school across disciplines and geographies. On campus, students hosted the Eurasian Schools Debating Championship, welcoming peers from across the region. Internationally, members of our Model United Nations team represented Robert College at the Model United Nations conference in The Hague. At the same time, students took part in Community Involvement Program (CIP) projects across five cities, including Istanbul, while another group traveled to Kenya as part of the Adventure and Outdoor Learning program – expanding their perspectives through service, collaboration, and challenge. This period also brought significant institutional recognition. The New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) extended Robert College’s accreditation for a five-year period, through June 30, 2031. In its report, NYSAIS noted that “students are confident, curious, self-directed learners, guided by faculty and staff who center their educational experience and well-being,” adding that “the devotion of the faculty and the non-teaching staff to the school, its mission, and its students is palpable and inspirational.” Academic excellence was further reflected in national competition results: five of our students earned Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals at the TÜBİTAK 33rd Science Olympiads, a remarkable achievement that highlights both individual dedication and strong academic mentorship. On the sports fields, our Girls’ and Boys’ Volleyball teams competed in regional tournaments with outstanding results – the Girls’ team finishing second, and the Boys’ team claiming first place. On stage, the Hamlin Players brought energy and creativity to campus with their production of Grease, showcasing the depth of student talent in the performing arts. Student leadership was also on full display on Saturday, February 14, when students hosted the Social Entrepreneurship Festival on campus, bringing together ideas, initiatives, and conversations around impact and innovation. Looking ahead, we invite our community to mark their calendars: the next Soli Özel Talk will take place on March 11, 2026.

RC Singers Rocks the Stage

From Indian melodies to Brazilian beats – RC Singers opened the Autumn Teachers’ Conference with precision, poise, and the unmistakable RC spirit.

Opening in Perfect Harmony

RC Singers set the tone for the Autumn Teachers’ Conference

The RC Singers took the stage at the opening ceremony of this year’s Autumn Teachers’ Conference with four pieces that traveled across cultures – from Indian to Brazilian tunes. Despite a packed exam schedule and limited rehearsal time, they delivered a performance of remarkable unity, precision, and heart.

Their finale, the beloved RC Singers classic Suda Balık, brought the audience to its feet with endless applause and cheers. The group’s energy, discipline, and joy in music once again reminded everyone what dedication, and a little RC magic, can achieve.

Follow @rcsingerss on Instagram for more performances and behind-the-scenes moments.

20th Culture and Literature Symposium

The theme: Remembering Genco Erkal RC 57
Contributed by Mehmet Uysal, Head of the Department of Turkish Language and Literature

When deciding on a theme for our 20th Culture and Literature Symposium, the faculty of the Turkish Language and Literature Department unanimously agreed to dedicate it to our alumnus, Genco Erkal, who passed away in July 2024. Erkal was not only one of our graduates but also an artist of great stature in Turkey and around the world. As a department deeply devoted both to the school where he was nurtured and to the theater itself, we felt it was our duty and responsibility to honor him in this way.

We immediately set to work, formed our organizing committee, and began preparations. We reached out to our guest speakers and finalized all the details. The event was held on October 11, 2025. 

RC Head of School Whitman Shepard delivered the opening remarks, and Nilhan Çetinyamaç, Turkish Director and Associate Head of Robert College, was by our side throughout, as always. Actress, director, and playwright Yeşim Özsoy RC 90 moderated the discussions.

Our guests included Genco Erkal’s daughter Ayşe Erkal, academician and theater critic Dikmen Gürün ACG 61, actress Çiğdem Selışık ACG 60, actor and playwright Haluk Özenç RC 88, actress Meral Onuktav Çetinkaya ACG 65, director of the Genco documentary Selçuk Metin, and actress Tülay Günal.

Thanks to the valuable contributions of these distinguished guests, we held one of the most memorable and enjoyable symposiums in recent years. The discussions highlighted Genco Erkal’s lifelong journey in theater, which began at RC, and his lasting contributions to Turkish theater. Many heartfelt memories were shared throughout the day.

We are also grateful to the students from various grades who assisted us before and during the event, and to the many departments across the school whose support was invaluable. Our deepest gratitude goes to the teachers of the Turkish Language and Literature Department, who brought this symposium to life through their dedication and hard work.

Preparations for our 21st Culture and Literature Symposium are already underway!

Autumn Teachers’ Conference (ATC) 2025

Robert College served as the proud host of the 27th annual Autumn Teacher’s Conference (ATC) on Saturday, October 18th. ATC originated in 1997 with the aimof teacherssharing their best pedagogical practice within Türkiye. Since that time, it has been held on a Saturday, in the autumn, and only Covid has interrupted this tradition.

Our own, Cyrus Carter, co-founded ATC with the then UAA Head of School, John E. Heard. The idea was sparked by an Educational Collaborative for International Schools (ECIS) Conference held in Istanbul in 1996. After attending the conference, Cyrus and John reflected on how impactful that professional development experience was, and they believed a similar event was needed to enhance teaching and learning in Türkiye. According to Cyrus, they hoped to, “create a group of like minded people who like to share ideas.”

There are three foundational principles which are honored at every ATC:

  • Fostering an international perspective
  • Inspiring teachers to teach other teachers
  • Setting a productive venue for professional and social networking

From the outset, there have been five schools who rotate the hosting responsibilities:

Enka, Eyuboğlu, Koç, RC, and UAA. The schools were selected based on their academic standing and their English-based programs. Representatives of these schools serve on the ATC Steering Committee which meets regularly to oversee the annual conference and to support the current host-school.

RC has hosted ATC every five years since 1997 with a few exceptions due to external factors. Most recently, ATC was hosted at RC in 2018 and before that in 2013. This year was our fifth time serving as the host-school.  Hosting offers us the opportunity to share the great things that are happening at RC. We showcase our teaching and learning practice, our students’ accomplishments, and our commitment to maintaining the ideal campus and facilities to foster the learning and development of the RC community.

This year, the day proved a well-deserved success. The gates opened starting at 7:00 a.m. to 1,200 educators attending from 18+ schools from around the country. With  just under 300 presentations offered on a variety of subjects suitable for primary, middle, and secondary grade levels, as well as a leadership strand, it was a busy and rewarding experience.

The theme of this year’s conference was “Cyrus to Cyrus.” Drawing inspiration from our founding president, Cyrus Hamlin, who espoused an ethos of democratic ideals and rigorous scholarship, we directly linked that heritage to our beloved, contemporaneous school leader, Cyrus Carter. RC’s heritage of staying commited to innovative teaching and learning that inspires students to actively engage with their lives and the world beyond was celebrated.

Organizing the conference was a whole school effort. Planning started last spring and intensified at the start of this year. RC’s Steering Committee members: Tonguç Ozdaş, Dogan Aydenk, Emre Firat, and Maura Kelly invited key faculty and staff members to serve on subcommittees. Tirelessly, the Plant Office prepared the grounds and buildings to look their best, the Institutional Advancement Office promoted the conference, found vendors and sponsors, and coordinated the refreshments, the Business Office managed the fees and financing, the Technology Office secured the Wifi and tech needs of the day, and the Security team manned the gates and ensured the safety of all. Within the faculty, we had the essential help of our Level Deans, Head of SEIC, Head of Educational Research, and Dean of Regenerative and Innovative Education. Of the over 80 RC faculty members who attended around 45 presentations were offered.

The true superstars of the day were our RC students. 95 students served as ambassadors wearing bright blue t-shirts stating, “I can help.” They were carefully trained by Patricia Deo and J.T. Rehill to support tech needs, location finding, and overall guidance of our guests. For the first time at ATC, there were student presenters. Several of the RC faculty recruited students to co-present which greatly impressed the attendees.

The  day opened with a ceremony in the Suna Kiraç Theater that was emceed by two confident and composed RC students, L11 Cemre Sanlav, and L11 Kubilay Suat Eren. The flag bearers were L9 Inanç Kayan, and L10 Narin Aslan. Head of School, Whit Shephard, and Turkish Director, Nilhan Çetinyamaç, gave speeches that echoed the theme of the day: inspirational teaching makes a difference. A shining moment of the ceremony was the RC Singers performance under the direction of Koray Demirkapı. On that day, we highlighted that students are the heart of Robert College.

We are all proud to have fulfilled the legacy and expectations of our two Cyruses. The teaching community of Türkiye was welcomed warmly to our school where they were able to, in the words of Cyrus Carter, “create a connection, a bond among cities, and not just within branches but outside of their own sphere of teaching.” The tradition of great teaching and learning remains strong and central to the on-going story of Robert College.

Maura Kelly

Dean of Faculty

October 24, 2025