Three Pine Crest School students honored with 2026 Pinnacle Awards for leadership character and academic excellence

Pine Crest, Florida – Three students from Pine Crest School are being recognized for their character, dedication, and leadership after receiving the 2026 Pinnacle Awards from the Broward County Non-Public School Association. The annual recognition highlights students who demonstrate exceptional qualities both in the classroom and throughout their school communities.

This year’s honorees—Marius Garbayo Ante ’33, Julianna Zadeh ’30, and Edward “Eddie” Wang ’27—stood out among their peers for their achievements and the example they set for others. The Pinnacle Awards celebrate students who show excellence across several areas of school life, including academics, athletics, the arts, citizenship, community service, leadership, perseverance, and overall attitude.

For Pine Crest School, the recognition reflects the school’s commitment to encouraging well-rounded students who lead not only through achievement but also through kindness and character.

Marius Garbayo Ante, a Lower School student, has become known among teachers and classmates for his positive spirit and thoughtful approach to school life. Described as compassionate and responsible, Marius consistently looks for ways to support those around him.

In the classroom, he is known for putting in extra effort and maintaining a strong commitment to learning. Teachers say he often stays after school to help tidy up classrooms or assist classmates who may need support with their work.

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His enthusiasm for learning extends beyond academics as well. Marius is a member of the Lower School Orchestra, where he contributes to the school’s music program while continuing to develop his artistic talents.

Outside of school, he has also found success in athletics. Marius is an accomplished sailor who competes in national events and is currently preparing to participate in the Junior Olympics.

Those who know him say his dedication, perseverance, and teamwork reflect the same qualities he brings to the classroom each day.

At the Middle School level, Julianna Zadeh has earned praise from teachers for her academic dedication and thoughtful personality. Known for her strong work ethic and natural curiosity, Julianna is described as a student who approaches learning with both enthusiasm and purpose.

Recently, she discovered a growing interest in photography. Early mornings often find her capturing sunrises or natural landscapes, turning quiet moments into creative inspiration.

Julianna’s artistic interests extend into the performing arts as well. She studies both stage and film acting and has become actively involved in theater programs.

Her passion for performance even includes teaching others. Julianna volunteers her time to lead a weekly theater class for first-grade students, helping younger children explore creativity and confidence through acting.

In addition to these activities, she is also a traditional dancer who performs at well-known venues. Despite balancing a demanding schedule of academics and extracurricular activities, Julianna remains deeply focused on helping others and supporting her peers.

Educators say her empathy, creativity, and determination are qualities that make her stand out as both a student and a role model.

In the Upper School, Eddie Wang has built a reputation for academic excellence combined with humility and positivity. Teachers say his curiosity and determination push him to challenge himself with demanding coursework, while his collaborative spirit helps create a supportive classroom environment.

Eddie is known for applying what he learns to real-world situations, demonstrating a strong ability to connect academic concepts with practical ideas.

But his talents extend well beyond the classroom. Eddie has also earned recognition for his achievements in music, performing as an award-winning member of both the school Orchestra and Chorus.

He is also involved in Pine Crest’s Social Entrepreneurship Program, one of the school’s three-year signature programs designed to encourage students to develop solutions for real-world challenges. Through the program, students learn how innovation, business thinking, and social responsibility can work together to address complex issues.

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Teachers say Eddie’s leadership and enthusiasm for learning make him a positive presence across the school community.

The Pinnacle Awards aim to celebrate students who demonstrate not only strong academic performance but also the character and dedication that influence those around them. By recognizing achievements across multiple areas of student life, the program highlights the importance of leadership, perseverance, and service.

For Pine Crest School, the accomplishments of Marius, Julianna, and Eddie represent the type of students the school strives to nurture—individuals who pursue excellence while lifting up the people around them.

As the school community celebrates the three honorees, educators say their achievements are a reminder that success in education often comes not just from talent, but from kindness, determination, and a willingness to make a difference.

Congratulations, Marius, Julianna and Eddie!