Bishop O’Connell High School held its 55th commencement exercise at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. The Most Reverend Paul S. Loverde, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, presented diplomas to the 311 members of the class of 2015.
Included in that number were 38 legacies, that is, graduates with a parent who is an O’Connell alum. There were also 20 graduates who received a certificate along with their diploma to indicate the equivalent of a ninth semester of study as part of the Global Studies program.
Head of School Joseph E. Vorbach III, a 1983 graduate himself, welcomed the students, families and honored guest to this celebration. He asked the soon-to-be graduates to not rush their mind through this day: "Absorb the details--the depth of the love expressed in the hugs of loved ones, the words of pride expressed by your parents and others who have helped you grow, the admiration of the faculty for your accomplishments, the moment you receive your diploma, the time with classmates outside the Shrine when we conclude."
Alexander Socarras, the class salutatorian, reflected on the past four years and the O'Connell community the class built together: "Years from now, I will remember all the small moments I shared with you, in between classes, during Knight Time, after school, waiting at half-time and after dances. Everyone I came in contact with on a personal level has taught me something and left a lasting mark on my life."
Srijan Bhasin, the class valedictorian, had one piece of advice for the class of 2015: be a chef. Yes, a chef! "Like a chef trusts his tools, you must trust your knowledge... Take criticism like a chef, realizing that those moments don't define you... Live with passion like a chef."
Bishop Loverde, provided the commencement address. He reflected on a meeting he recently had with a group of seniors from O'Connell. "There is something different, unique, about this class," he said. "It's a spirit of belonging together like a family--with a strong faith, support given to one another and outreach to those outside the community in need."
He encouraged the students to continue to pursue the kind of happiness, or feeling of fulfillment in your heart, that comes from being in the right relationship with God and with each other. "Living rightly is reality, and being happy is the result. May God walk at your side every day," he said.
God Bless the Class of 2015!
Photo slide show coming soon...