As the Storm King School Class of 2016 prepared to graduate, on Saturday, commencement speaker Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney reminded the students of the words of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
“I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land.”
Since the birth of our nation, it’s been an ongoing journey to the promised land in an effort to uphold the words of the forefathers who wanted a nation where “all men are created equal.”
Many have fought for the civil rights of all, no matter their race, color, creed, or national origin. Some have succeeded while others are still fighting.
Maloney encouraged the 42 graduates (hailing from the United States, China, South Korea, Russia, Serbia, Thailand, Portugal, Lebanon, Japan, and Vietnam) to look over the edge of Storm King Mountain to see if they could spot the promised land.
“The promised land is still before us, and it will include equal rights and respect for all races and all religious believers, and those of no faith,” Maloney said. “It will include equal rights for Americans with disabilities. It will include, finally, full and equal rights for all people, regardless of how they experience sexual orientation and gender identity.”
To help reach that place, Headmaster Jonathan Lamb spoke of the lessons taught on top of the mountain, but most importantly of the values of “truth, respect, and responsibility; to be nice to one another; understand and live empathetic lives.”
Throughout their time on campus, students have shown their understanding of these traits on the stage, the sports field, in the classroom, venues throughout the Hudson Valley, and beyond.
“You know how to help and take care of each other,” Lamb said, “you demonstrate you know yourselves and own up to mistakes, and that you do not just tolerate those who are different from you, you embrace them.”
While it’s been easy for the graduates to practice those values among those who care for each other, the true test will be after they leave.
“We want you to remember all the facts and skills we have taught you,” Lamb said, “but these values are the most important things we tried to teach you. If you live them as we hope you will, together we have made the future better; together we have improved the world for you, your children and ours, and your grandchildren and ours.”
AWARDS
Before receiving their diplomas, six students were recognized, as well as one staff member.
The first award went to Tae Han Lee and Yuqing Guan.
The Riley Cup recognizes an outstanding student, as well as a staff member who have contributed to the school’s community in practical and creative ways. It was presented jointly to Dennis Costello, English and history teacher, and student Kalydosos Benito Kudayah.
Joseph Underwood received the Spy Rock Cup and Moneisha Hayles was awarded the Headmaster’s Cup.
Awarded to the student who has distinguished themselves by their personal qualities and accomplishments, the school’s highest honor, the Storm King Cup, went to Pedro Da Silva.
