On Thursday, June 17, 2021, New Hope Academy’s class of 2021 officially graduated, thus ending their high school careers and beginning the next chapters of their lives. Held at the Makefield Highlands Golf Club, the enthusiastic graduates smiled in anticipation as they sat among their school administrators. Family, friends, and teachers proudly watched from the audience.
Due to health restrictions and safety guidelines, two separate ceremonies were held. NHA founder and president Kathleen Rosso-Gana welcomed the graduates and their attendees, making sure to highlight the extraordinary accomplishments the seniors made during a challenging year. Both ceremonies featured three exemplary speakers. The morning ceremony highlighted salutatorian Kelly McLeod, valedictorian Colin Cahill, and closing speaker Ari Silver. The afternoon ceremony highlighted salutatorian Christopher Franklin, valedictorian Jamie Lubov, and closing speaker Jenna Feldman. As representatives of the entire graduating class, each speaker reflected on the impact that New Hope Academy has had on their lives. They spoke about the struggles and experiences that brought them to NHA, the successes that led them to this very memorable moment, and the hope they have for the future.
After the pinnacle moment of the presentation of the diplomas, and officially being declared as high school graduates, the Class of 2021 proceeded out to “Gonna Fly Now” (Theme from Rocky) into the auspicious sunshine, where they were met by thunderous applause, smiling faces, and bright futures.
