Penn Charter Graduates 106 Seniors
The sun shone on the patio filled with Penn Charter's Class of 2018 in their caps and gowns. Faculty, families, friends and loved ones cheered a class that is passionate, articulate, gifted and strong.
Head of School Darryl J. Ford delivered his Commencement address to the assembled crowd, highlighting the seniors' accomplishments and focusing on the theme for this year, the Quaker Testimony of Peace.
"You have been active peacemakers and built community. You have been active peacemakers and created community. You are PC community," Ford said of the class. "And I hope that this Quaker community of Penn Charter has helped you to be in the midst of all things, and still find calm in your hearts."
President of the Alumni Society Brian Cash OPC '00 announced Reece Whitley as the winner of the the Penn Charter Alumni Award, presented to a member of the senior class who on qualification of scholarship, character, leadership and athletic ability exemplifies the best Penn Charter type.
The Phi Beta Kappa Award, presented to the student outstanding in scholarship in the graduating class was shared by Brian Isztwan and Anna Pogrebivsky, who completed their senior year with identical grade point averages.
Chosen by the faculty and their peers, Anurithi Senthil (left) and Ellen O'Malley (right) spoke on behalf of their class.
"The lessons I have learned will remain my fondest memories and also my greatest strength," Anu said. Read her full speech.
In her speech, Ellen, with humor that characterized her class, recalled stories of soggy canoe and rafting trips and relayed the pride she and her classmates carry as new OPCs.
"While we will undoubtedly leave here today filled with nostalgia," Ellen said, "we must enter our colleges and careers with confidence and conviction, sure of ourselves and the values that we hold."
Enjoy photos and watch a full video of Commencement. Barksdale photos are available for purchase.
Congratulations to the Class of 2018!