For HIES seniors, it’s not over till the bell rings, and the old railroad bell did toll on England Plaza after graduation Saturday, May 17th, proclaiming an end to the Class of 2014’s time at Holy Innocents’.
It was the largest class to graduate from Holy Innocents’, and one of the most accomplished, noted Headmaster Gene Bratek. The Class of 2014 boasted 114 graduates, 39 Alpha-Omegas, and two valedictorians—and their other stats were no less impressive. Class members were offered 118 Merit Scholarships and awards totaling more than $5.1-million over four years, not including Georgia HOPE Scholarship funds. The class also boasted two Posse Scholars and received offers for many prestigious scholarships, including the Connell Scholarship at Davidson, the Baldwin Scholarship at the University of Georgia, and the Bell Tower Scholarship at Furman. Eight young men in the Class of 2014 earned the rank of Eagle Scout, eight class members signed letters of intent to play college sports next year, and seniors were also part of 17 varsity teams that qualified to compete in state playoffs, including the volleyball team, which won its first state championship.
Valedictorian Natalie Kessler, who will attend the University of Virginia this fall, encouraged classmates to continue to do they best they can as individuals, and but also count on the help of others. “The importance of teamwork is obvious,” she said. “Yes, you should still strive for excellence, but you can’t achieve it without those around you.”
Valedictorian Mary Catherine Thomson, who is headed to Davidson College, also spoke of the importance of community. “After spending time in a close-knit school like Holy Innocents’, we all have a better appreciation for the powerful impact that caring individuals can have on us. We have all been affected in a meaningful way by at least one member of the Holy Innocents’ community, and probably more, who chose to take a special interest in our well-being,” she explained. “These are the teachers, and the coaches, and the peers, who have believed in us, even when we doubted ourselves and pushed us to set higher goals than we ever felt capable of reaching.
“As we recognize these figures, let us remember that with a little extra effort, we, too, can make a big difference in the lives of others. All these valuable experiences—growing as a result of challenges, gaining confidence from our passions, and feeling the effect of someone’s genuine interest—are lessons that will extend past our time in high school.”
Click here for the Audio File from NPR
Contact:
Peggy Shaw
(404)303-2150
peggy.shaw@hies.org
