This is a crazy time of year in my world. It marks the
end of the school year, and even though I retired from teaching last May, I
still feel the excitement of graduation and all the celebrations that surround
it.
At our sponsored school, Villa Madonna Academy, the
excitement started with the junior-senior banquet two weeks ago and the prom. Sunday was the Alumni Brunch with over 140
alums returning to campus to see old friends, former teachers, and to honor the
Outstanding Alumni winners this year. In addition, Carole Lonneman, who has
been the counselor for 50 years was honored. The 50-year and 25-year reunion
classes were also feted. . It was quite a day!
High school graduation itself will be on May 22 at Mother of God
church in Covington. It is always such a beautiful tribute to the graduates and
their families. Seeing how much the graduates have grown in their four years of
high school is amazing. Hearing of their many accomplishments and scholarships
won makes all of us proud. The greatest joy for me, though, is hearing the
speeches of the valedictorian and salutatorian(s). Invariably they cite the
Benedictine values of hospitality, peace, community, prayer, stewardship and
respect that form the foundation of their educational experience at Villa.
Knowing that they are grounded in these values they will be able to move
forward in their education and their careers, making a positive contribution to
society. Educating the whole person, not just their intellect is a lofty goal,
and it is edifying to hear that these students realize that is being
accomplished in them.
I’m sure many of our readers will be celebrating with the
graduates among their family and friends. May each of the graduates be blessed as they continue their lifelong
learning and growth. Sr. Nancy Kordenbrock, OSB
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