Celebrating the Class of 2021
On June 10, 2021, Nazareth Prep celebrated its fourth graduating class, a group of students who encountered many challenging moments over the last few years and still were able to persevere.
“Shout out to God for stopping the rain at six o’ clock!”
Principal Rita Canton’s remark earned a hearty laugh from Nazareth Prep graduates and their supporters, who had crowded under tents to escape the light sprinkling of rain. Despite the cloudy weather, moods were bright as thirty-four graduates crossed the stage to collect the reward of a highly unusual school year.
The program opened with a visit from Elias Khouri, local musician and Nazareth Prep graduate, who performed the song he wrote for his own graduation ceremony two years ago. After thanking students, families, teachers, staff, and board members for their contributions, Sister Linda Yankoski blessed the Class of 2021 for their courage and conviction throughout unprecedented times: “There will never be another year quite like this one.”
Justice Pennix, the class salutatorian who will be attending Carlow University on a full scholarship, reminisced about the “rollercoaster” experience of moving back and forth between in-person and virtual learning. “I’m grateful to sit here today and make the best out of our senior year,” she said. “When you look at your diploma, remember everything you went through to get it!” She then encouraged her fellow graduates to carry the memories – of both their failures and successes – as they prepare to face the challenges of the “real world.”
Commencement speaker Tracey McCants Lewis, Vice President of HR and Deputy General Counsel for the Pittsburgh Penguins, labeled graduates “The Resilient Class” for persevering despite learning interruptions, repeated lockdowns, economic disruptions, and losses of both loved ones and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. “To say this year has been a lot,” she said, “would be an understatement.”
As a proud internship mentor to a Nazareth Prep junior, however, she shared her admiration for students who have experienced the “real-world rigor” that many of her law school students had never before experienced. McCants Lewis also drew on Nazareth Prep’s motto for inspiration, urging students to “Live Well” by showing gratitude rather than dwelling on obstacles or losses. Of the motto’s mandate to “Learn Well,” she encouraged students to pursue any learning opportunities that present themselves. “Never start thinking that you’re done,” she said, stressing the value of staying prepared and taking full advantage of blessings that appear. “Black Americans risked their lives to get the opportunity to read! Don’t take that for granted.”
While addressing the final part of the motto – “Pray Well” – McCants Lewis urged graduates to experience and celebrate the presence of God on a regular basis. With a reminder that strong principles make a more well-rounded leader, she told graduates: “Your commitment has prepared you for college and the workplace; no matter what you choose, you will reap those rewards.”
In her address, Principal Rita Canton took inspiration from the Biblical story of Esther and the well-known words of Sister Thea Bowman: “Remember who you are and whose you are.” She encouraged graduates to define themselves not through the challenges they encounter or the successes they achieve, but through their relationships with God and their ability to effect positive change in the world. “You might not feel royal like Esther, but you’re here for such a time as this,” she said. “Be proud of yourself; be proud of your courage, tenacity, and resilience. Our ancestors died so you could have rights, find your voice, and speak. We need you to be on the team, not just a cheerleader. Allow God to lead you,” she concluded, “and nothing will go wrong.”
Cherub Massey, Nazareth Prep valedictorian, took the stage last before diplomas were conferred. Classmates whooped and cheered as Mrs. Canton announced that Cherub would be attending Boston University on a full academic scholarship. In her speech, Massey lauded her fellow graduates for turning the struggles and obstacles they had faced into acts of service. After sharing fond memories of food drives and basketball championships, she praised classmates for being uncomfortable with mediocrity. “We wanted more for ourselves,” she said. “We found passion within our daily routine. We made connections with businesses, law firms, and hospitals. We found meaning and connection in service. And our job now is to make sure our story impacts others.”