A beautiful summer day graced the eighth commencement exercises of The Glenholme School. In the early afternoon hours of Wednesday June 27, fourteen students gathered in the Glenholme Music Room for graduation preparations. They donned their caps and gowns, shared hugs and chats, and posed for special photo opportunities before the events began.

Shortly after two o’clock, the soon-to-be-graduates made their way to the sidewalk between Glenholme and The Center for the Arts. Once there, they paused to reflect upon the commemorative bricks placed in the walkway, one brick noting “The Class of 2012” along with fourteen others, each etched with one of their names. Smiles, laughs and cheers filled the air. After their short pause, they promptly made their way to the arts center where over 200 parents, family members, friends, faculty, staff and students of the school gathered to celebrate accomplishments and rejoice in the delivery of diplomas.

The Glenholme executive director, Maryann Campbell, began the exercises with a welcome address, in which she remarked, “This ceremony is a true testament to Helena Devereux, the founder of Devereux, who began her journey to educate students with learning differences in 1906. It is through her success and the generosity and genuine devotion to young people by the Van Sinderen family who donated this beautiful property to the Devereux Foundation in the late 1960’s that The Glenholme School came to be. And it is here, where each of you found your means to success and are moving forward confidently with your lives.”

Representing the student community, the Student Council secretary, Amy, commended the graduating class for their hard work, personal growth, and accomplishments. She also encouraged them with a quote from Dr. Suess, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.You’re on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who’ll decide where to go.” She continued with, “For all of our graduates, the opportunity exists to soar greater and climb higher than ever before. And always remember, it is YOUR LIFE. Your direction is your choice.”

After the speeches, several awards were bestowed on the seniors including scholarships and graduate awards, along with the recognition of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Citizenship Award.

Several students received special recognition by Ms. Campbell and Ms. Cooper, who were later joined at the podium by school principal, Sharon Murphy, in the awarding of the diplomas to the fourteen soon-to-be school alumni.

Glenholme assistant executive director Dr. Queenan concluded the graduation exercises with the closing remarks. In his positive and uplifting speech, he shared some hopes and wishes for the school’s newest alumni and noted, “We hope that you will look back at Glenholme fondly, as a community of students, parents, and faculty who’ve cared, and who’ve helped. We wish you lives filled with much happiness and success.”

To see more photos check out out blog at: http://www.glenholmeschool.com