Graduation Ceremony – June 24, 2016

18 July 2016Mr. Bud Patel, Head of School

Good Morning and welcome to the big top on Campbell Common. A warm welcome to some special guests: Chair of the Board of Governors and Old Brentonian from the class of 1964, Mr. Bruce Carlson. Former Chair of the Board of Governors and current Governor, Mr. Art Crooks. Board of Governor and Old Brentonian from the class of 1969, Mr. Bruce Homer. President of the Old Brentonian’s Association from the class of 1981 – Mr. Grant Gillies. Emeritus Faculty member Mr. John Queen (a special happy 80th birthday, Mr. Queen!) Finally, a warm welcome to parents, family, and friends of this year’s graduating class. A few weeks ago, Billy Crystal described Muhammed Ali as a bolt of lighting…"created by Mother Nature out of thin air, a fantastic combination of power and beauty. We’ve seen still photographs of lightning bolts, ferocious in their strength, magnificent in their elegance. And at the moment of impact it lights up everything around it so you can see everything clearly." He went on to say that "Ali’s power toppled mighty foes and his intense light shone to allow us to see clearly: injustice, inequality, poverty, pride, self-realization, courage, laughter, love, and joy. He became a silent messenger of peace, who taught us that life is best when you build bridges between people, not walls." This morning is the culmination of years of schooling for the Graduation Class of 2016. These young people, I hope, will be that lighting bolt the world so desperately needs to open its eyes to all that is good in humanity. They are the leaders of tomorrow. In a moment, Mr. Rodriguez will speak about each of our graduates as they take those final momentous steps across this stage and move from Brentwood student to Old Brentonian. They will join an exclusive club of alum that span the globe – all with a common and shared experience. Graduates, enjoy this special moment and be sure to thank your parents, teachers, and friends for their unwavering support. I now invite Mr. Rodrigues, Director of University Counseling, to introduce this year’s graduating class. Mr. Bud Patel, Head of School

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