“You have all made a difference in my life,” wrote Kathleen Rosso-Gana in her farewell message to New Hope Academy’s graduating class of 2015. June 5, 2015, was a day that certainly made a difference in the lives of many, for that was the day that NHA held its 14th commencement ceremony at the Sheraton Bucks County Hotel. The graduates beamed as they sat on a raised platform among their school administrators. Family, friends, undergraduate students, and teachers watched with pride from the audience.

Songs performed by the NHA music department helped to make the ceremony unforgettab. Vocal presentations included Neil Diamond’s “America”, performed by music department chair Eric Jaber; Celine Dion’s “These Are Special Times,” sung by drama department chair Dave Boyd; and “I’ll Be There,” performed by vocal teacher Jenna Parrilla.

NHA’s graduation ceremonies are distinguished by the amount of graduates invited to speak. This ceremony featured a total of three Valedictorians from both the Yardley and Doylestown campuses, as well as a Salutatorian, two Commencement Closers, and some parting words from two honored graduates who had been with NHA for at least four years. Students spoke about the struggles and experiences which brought them to NHA, and the successes which led them to this very memorable moment. Keynote speaker Lou B. Priluker, Esq., imparted his words of wisdom to the group of eager graduates. President Kathleen Rosso Gana addressed the class of 2015 before the big moment – the presentation of the diplomas. In an emotional moment, graduates presented roses to all teachers, thanking them for their dedication. The final vocal presentation, dedicated to all NHA students, was a rousing performance of “Glory,” performed by the NHA Choir. Finally, the class of 2015 marched offstage to “Gonna Fly Now” (Theme from Rocky) to greet their proud parents, their inspired peers, and their bright, promising futures.