For the fifth time in Michigan High School Ethics Bowl history, Ann Arbor Greenhills School secured first place, The Hemlock Cup, and title of Michigan Champs. Second place was won for the first time by Academy of the Sacred Heart, who in Bowl tradition is the guardian of the Keeper of Philosophy Flame trophy.
In addition to the tradition of recognizing seniors, this year we saluted three Bowl coach/teacher advisors all of whom are ending their Bowl tenure and moving on to their next adventure. All have had a vital role in building and establishing the Michigan Bowl from the beginning: Brent Richards from Ann Arbor Pioneer; Mark Randolph from Ann Arbor Greenhills; and Katie Jones from Ann Arbor Huron.
All three teachers can boast Michigan championships. Yet on Bowl weekend, the open-mindedness, care and curiosity, intelligence, integrity and influence of each of these lovely human beings were highlighted by current team members and alumni. Student reflections, memories and stories of gratitude were in the air everywhere, making the 2026 Bowl an acknowledgment of the enduring power of teachers who discover the singular abilities and promise of all young people.
A2Ethics volunteers join students in acknowledging their teachers’ generosity, daring, resilience and–their sense of fun and good humor. Indeed, we think their school nicknames reflect collectively a few of their best attributes: they are Pioneers in helping to start the Michigan Bowl. They are Gryphons (Greenhills) whose mythical reputation embraces wisdom and loyalty. And they are (Huron) River Rats in its meaning as those who live along rivers—and have the traits of self-reliance, an indomitable spirit—and they appreciate quick drying shorts!