Dane R. DiLiegro '07
YOUNG ALUMNUS AWARD
From professional basketball courts in Europe to major Hollywood productions, Dane DiLiegro '07 has forged a unique and unconventional career marked by resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. During his time at Worcester Academy, DiLiegro developed the foundation for a competitive career built on discipline, leadership, and determination. He continued his academic and athletic journey at the University of New Hampshire, where he was a four-year starter on the Division I men’s basketball team and became known for his toughness and consistency on the court.
Following his collegiate career, DiLiegro played professional basketball overseas for eight seasons, competing in Italy and Israel while also spending time with the Boston Celtics during NBA Summer League play. While living in Italy, he pursued an unexpected passion outside of basketball, apprenticing under renowned eighth-generation butcher Dario Cecchini. At the height of his athletic career, DiLiegro made the bold decision to step away from professional basketball and pursue an entirely new path.
In 2019, DiLiegro transitioned into acting, where his physical presence and athletic background quickly distinguished him within the industry. He gained widespread recognition for portraying the titular creature in the feature film Prey, delivering a physically demanding performance that blended movement, discipline, and character work. He has since appeared in major productions including Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and American Horror Stories, establishing himself as a compelling presence in both action-oriented and character-driven roles.
As his acting career has evolved, DiLiegro has expanded into more traditional on-screen performances, with appearances in Running Point and a multi-episode arc in Only Murders in the Building. These roles reflect both his versatility and his continued commitment to refining his craft.
Across each chapter of his career, from Worcester Academy to international professional basketball to Hollywood, DiLiegro’s journey has been defined by a willingness to take risks without certainty. His story reflects resilience, adaptability, and the confidence to pursue challenging opportunities while continuing to evolve personally and professionally.
Susan G. Jacobson '78
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA AWARD
A nationally respected strategist and advisor, Susan G. Jacobson '78 has built a distinguished career centered on public service, communications, and guiding organizations through periods of growth and change. She is President of Jacobson Strategic Communications, a public relations, public affairs, and crisis management firm serving corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies. Under her direction, the firm has been recognized three times on the Inc. 5000 list as one of the fastest-growing private companies in the country.
Jacobson’s journey in service and civic engagement began at Worcester Academy, where she was elected President of the Student Government and developed an early understanding of the importance of using leadership in service to others. Her connection to the Academy reflects a multigenerational family legacy. Jacobson served on the Worcester Academy Board, as did her father, M. Howard Jacobson. Her father and two sisters, Leslie Jacobson Kaye and Joanne Jacobson, are also proud Worcester Academy alumni. In 2000, Jacobson returned to campus as Commencement Speaker, marking a meaningful full-circle moment in her longstanding relationship with the school.
Jacobson earned her Executive MBA from the Wharton School in 2025 alongside her husband, Michael Golden. Inspired by their shared experience, the couple co-founded the Praxtera AI Institute with fellow Wharton colleagues, creating a forward-thinking educational model that blends leadership, communications, and responsible innovation.
Earlier in her career, Jacobson served as Deputy Chief of Staff to former Philadelphia Mayor Ed Rendell, overseeing government relations. She also served on the transition teams for two Pennsylvania governors and the current mayor of Philadelphia.
In addition, Jacobson served as Chair of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, becoming the first woman to hold the role in nearly two decades. During her tenure, she launched Recharge and Recover, convening regional leaders to strengthen economic resilience, expand workforce opportunity, and support long-term regional growth.
A proud Worcester Academy alumna, Jacobson credits the Academy with instilling the confidence, sense of responsibility, and values that continue to guide her professional and philanthropic work today.
Antonios E. Bougiouris ’99
COLE PORTER ARTS RECOGNITION AWARD
Antonios E. Bougiouris '99 is a dancer, educator, and arts leader whose career spans internationally renowned companies, celebrated choreographers, and influential cultural initiatives. He began his training at the Charlotte Klein Dance Centers in Worcester, where he competed nationally and earned top honors including Master Dance of America, Teen Mr. Dance of America, and Mr. Dance of America.
In 1998, Bougiouris was accepted through early admission to The Juilliard School, where he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2002. During his time at Juilliard, he performed works by leading choreographers including Robert Battle, Ohad Naharin, Paul Taylor, David Parsons, Hans van Manen, and José Limón, building a strong classical and contemporary foundation.
While in New York, Bougiouris performed as a soloist in A Few Good Men Dancin’, a benefit for Dancers Responding to AIDS at the New Victory Theater. He also appeared with Project Ballet Theater alongside principal dancers Julie Kent, Susan Jaffe, and Marcelo Gomes.
In 2002, Bougiouris joined Les Grands Ballets Canadiens and was promoted to demi-soloist in 2003. During his tenure, he performed featured roles in works by choreographers including Jiří Kylián, Mats Ek, Kim Brandstrup, Ohad Naharin, Shen Wei, Mauro Bigonzetti, and George Balanchine.
In 2008, Bougiouris joined Aterballetto in Reggio Emilia, Italy, performing leading roles and contributing to new works. He later joined Ballets Jazz Montréal in 2009, where, over four seasons, he expanded his contemporary repertoire while performing works by internationally recognized choreographers.
Over the course of his career, Bougiouris has performed in more than 15 countries and over 230 cities worldwide. His work also extends into film and television, with appearances in On the Road and Mirror Mirror, as well as documentaries including Quelques Pas à Paris and Avant-Première: Un Été de la Danse.
Alongside his performance career, Bougiouris has developed an extensive teaching practice. Since 2019, he has served on faculty at Les Studios des Grands Ballets Canadiens and has taught at L’École supérieure de ballet du Québec and Springboard Dance. He holds an MBA from McGill University, graduating with distinction, and received both the Desautels Entrance Scholarship and the Roger C. Bennett Prize in Marketing.
Since 2022, Bougiouris has served as Marketing and Communications Manager at Ballets Jazz Montréal and as President of the Board of VIAS, a Montreal-based transdisciplinary company. His career reflects a dynamic blend of artistic excellence, academic achievement, and leadership within the global dance community.
Jarrett M. Jack '02
VARSITY CLUB AWARD
Known for his leadership, toughness, and command of the game, Jarrett M. Jack '02 quickly established himself as one of the premier guards in the country during his time at Worcester Academy. A native of Fort Washington, Maryland, Jack brought a high level of skill, competitiveness, and poise to the Hilltop, making an immediate impact on the basketball program. With exceptional court vision and the ability to control the tempo of the game, he elevated Worcester Academy’s level of play against some of the top prep schools in the nation while setting a standard for excellence both on and off the court.
Jack continued his academic and athletic career at Georgia Tech, where he developed into one of the top guards in college basketball. During his time with the Yellow Jackets, he earned All-ACC honors and played a pivotal role in leading the program to the 2004 NCAA National Championship game. His consistency, composure, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments defined his collegiate career and prepared him for success at the professional level.
Selected in the first round of the 2005 NBA Draft, Jack went on to enjoy a long and successful professional basketball career spanning more than a decade. Competing for multiple organizations across the NBA, he earned widespread respect for his professionalism, resilience, and presence both on and off the court. Whether serving as a starter or veteran leader, Jack consistently elevated the teams and players around him through his work ethic and mentorship.
Following his playing career, Jack transitioned into coaching and currently serves as an assistant coach with the Detroit Pistons. In this role, he continues to impact the game through mentorship, player development, and leadership.
Jack’s journey from Worcester Academy to the highest levels of college and professional basketball reflects the strength of the Hilltop experience. His legacy is defined not only by his accomplishments, but by the example he set through his character, discipline, and commitment to excellence, qualities that continue to inspire future generations of Worcester Academy student-athletes.
Jillian J. Marois '12
VARSITY CLUB AWARD
A standout athlete, coach, and emerging leader in athlete development, Jillian J. Marois '12 has built a career defined by discipline, mentorship, and competitive excellence. A lifer at Worcester Academy, she attended from sixth grade through her graduation in 2012, where she established herself as an exceptional track and field athlete. During her time on the Hilltop, Marois contributed to multiple Worcester Academy Varsity Girls Soccer Championship teams, including Class B titles in 2008 and 2010 and a Class A Championship in 2011. She also earned NEPSTA titles in both the 300-meter hurdles and pole vault, contributing more than 500 points to the girls track and field program through her consistency, athleticism, and leadership.
Marois continued her academic and athletic career at High Point University, where she studied psychology while competing as a Division I pole vaulter. Over four years, she developed into one of the top athletes in her conference, earning three individual conference championships while setting both conference and school records. Her steady progression and discipline led her to improve her personal best by more than three feet to 4.22 meters.
Following her graduation from college in 2016, Marois pursued a professional career in track and field, competing nationally and internationally in the women’s pole vault. She achieved a career-best clearance of 4.45 meters, qualified for multiple U.S. Senior National Championships, and earned top national rankings, including top 11 indoor finishes. Her international success includes a first-place finish at the Nantou International Meet in Taiwan in 2023, highlighting her continued growth and competitiveness on the global stage.
In addition to her accomplishments as an athlete, Marois has built an extensive coaching background, working with athletes at the collegiate, club, masters, and recreational levels. She began coaching at High Point University and has since mentored athletes across all stages of development.
Drawing from her experiences as both an elite competitor and coach, Marois is now developing a consulting platform focused on supporting athletes and coaches in their pursuit of high performance. Her work reflects a holistic, athlete-centered approach grounded in lived experience, leadership, and a deep understanding of athletic development.
Joel B. Strogoff ’69
HALL OF FAME
For nearly four decades, Joel B. Strogoff ’69 dedicated his professional life to education, leaving a lasting and meaningful impact on Worcester Academy and the broader independent school community. His connection to the Academy began early as a camper in the school’s summer program before he returned as a student, enrolling in eighth grade and spending five formative years on the Hilltop.
After graduating from Trinity College, Strogoff returned to Worcester Academy to begin what would become a distinguished career in education and school leadership. Over the course of two decades, he served in numerous roles, including educator, department chair, Director of Admission, Academic Dean, Assistant Headmaster, Upper School Director, and Dean of Faculty. In every position, he became known for his integrity, thoughtful guidance, and unwavering dedication to students and colleagues alike.
Throughout his tenure, Strogoff played a significant role in strengthening academic programs, supporting faculty development, and fostering a school culture grounded in respect, accountability, and purpose. He remained deeply committed to creating an environment where students could thrive both academically and personally. His approach emphasized consistency, fairness, and a genuine investment in the success and well-being of others.
Following his years at Worcester Academy, Strogoff continued his service-oriented career as a nursing home administrator, bringing the same compassion, discipline, and leadership to his work beyond the classroom. He also remained actively involved in his community as a volunteer coach and mentor, continuing to support individuals across generations.
Respected by colleagues, students, families, and peers, Strogoff is remembered for his wisdom, humility, and strong moral compass. His lifelong commitment to education and community reflects the very best of Worcester Academy’s mission and values. In every role he held, he exemplified the meaning of leadership through service and the enduring spirit of Achieve the Honorable.
