SJS News

On Sunday, June 2, the 46 members of the Class of 2024 received their diplomas on the Senior Steps of Claggett Hall following a weekend that included speeches, prizes, and awards to conclude Saint James School's 181st year.

Perfect weather greeted families and friends as they gathered to watch Commencement under the shade of the School's famous poplar tree. Following the traditional opening procession from the Chapel and through the Senior Circle by faculty, sacristans, trustees, and graduating sixth formers, Father Dunnan gave his opening remarks.

He told the students as they head off into the larger world, their decisions and actions and how they choose to lead their lives will be up to them.

"Take Saint James with you. That you may live productive, useful, and purposeful lives, honestly, generously, and faithfully," Father Dunnan said. "That you may do great good with all that you have learned here, with all of the talents and skills that you have developed, and everything you have achieved."

After the presentation of Commencement Day prizes, speaker James B. Massey, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at the University of Maryland, addressed the Class of 2024. Mr. Massey noted that the Class of 2024 began high school during one of the most challenging times in our nation's history.

"When your high school years began, we were in the throes of a worldwide pandemic, there was a national unrest, and global challenges ensued," he said. "Normal as we knew it didn't really exist, and we had to find a new path forward. We had to find hope and to learn how to continue to support each other through it all. We learned a lot about the world around us and about ourselves as individuals."

Mr. Massey said the sixth formers have learned how to create meaningful, sustained relationships, and that skill is a life lesson that will be the key to future success. He also noted that resilience and passion will be crucial as they navigate the future ahead.

"As you leave here today, remember that both passion and resilience are necessary, almost yin and yang, in order to be able to achieve your goals and find your greatest potential and success in life," he said. "They can both take you on a journey of being inspired, they can prepare you to face life's unintended—and intended—challenges, and ultimately support your efforts to find the courage, strength, determination, and the grace to succeed."

Then it was time for the milestone moment the students and their families were waiting for—the awarding of diplomas. This year, we were pleased to have Bishop Carrie Schofield-Broadbent, who is just beginning her tenure as the 15th Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, with us for her first Commencement and to congratulate our graduates as they received their diplomas. Joining her on the Senior Steps were Father Dunnan and Tod Salisbury '70 (President of the Board of Trustees). 

Cheers rang out at the conclusion of the ceremony as the newest graduates raised their diplomas high and joined the Saint James School alumni ranks. 

It was an extraordinary weekend honoring the Class of 2024's achievements and dedication. Congratulations!

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