Eager to begin the next phase of their lives, yet with the trepidation that comes from leaving the familiar, the 53-member class of 2016 filed onto the stage of the Waxlax Center for the Performing Arts to take part in the 43rd Commencement Exercise at Saint Edward’s School.
Proud families, friends, faculty and staff gathered Saturday to applaud the students whose accomplishments include five National Merit Finalists and 21 Advance Placement Scholars. They have performed roughly 8,560 community service hours and four have already established themselves as nonprofit CEOs. More than 90 percent were accepted to the college of their first or second choice, including seven Ivy League schools. In addition to academics, the class has also excelled in athletic and cultural achievements.
“It should be known that every member of this class has had a lasting and positive impact on our school, making St. Edward’s a better place. Whether in the classroom, on the field or courts, on the stage or out in the community, this stalwart class has truly made a difference,” said Associate Head of School and Head of Upper School Bruce Wachter. “Class of 2016, as you contemplate the excitement that awaits you and are ready to move on to your colleges and universities near and far, I urge you, as I did at Senior Walk several weeks ago, stop, take it all in and enjoy. Remember that the beauty of life is in the journey and not the destination.”
Attorney and Board of Trustees Chairman Kevin Barry spoke of the importance of thanking their parents and their teachers for providing them with such a special education. “At St. Edward’s you have the chance to do it all, and when you embrace those opportunities, you become so well rounded as a result. Your St. Edward’s experience has prepared you well for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” said Barry, reminding them to “play nice in the sandbox” and to keep life’s basic values in mind while pursuing their passion.
Head of School Mike Mersky reiterated that theme, offering practical tips such as being a person of value to others and accountable for your actions, regardless of the situation. “Your approach attitude and demeanor are always on display whether you know it or not. Hence, make sure your presentation as an individual is what you want others to see every day,” said Mersky. He spoke of our country’s desperate need for leaders who can act as role models, make decisions with thought and help others to reach their full potential. “My hope is that many members of the Class of 2016 will rise to the occasion and fill that dearth of leadership we’re currently experiencing in our society today.”
Upper School math teacher Shaun Hurley, chosen by the senior class to be the guest speaker, offered advice based on his own personal experience of overcoming a learning disability diagnosis to go on to graduate with a 4.0 GPA master’s degree in civil engineering.
“It’s a decision, period, that’s it. If you want something bad enough and are willing to put in the work, absolutely nothing can stop you. Decide what you want, make the decision and just go after it,” Hurley advised. “Just don’t panic if things don’t go as you planned. If a better path presents itself, feel free to take it without feeling bad.”
Valedictorian Kishore Chundi, who will be attending Yale University, spoke about recognizing the fragility of life while also embracing life’s twists and turns. “But it is important to note that we always have control over who we are. In fact, those same circumstances that can change what we are often define who we are. We must be cognizant of and emphasize with the pains, anxieties and sufferings of our fellow human beings.”
Salutatorians Nishanth Chalasani and Josh Hurwitz spoke about the importance of using time wisely and presented a bench as the class gift to serve as a timeless reminder for years to come.
