It was a bright and sunny day on the campus of Storm King School the morning of June 13. The temperature hovered comfortably at about 63 degrees. Insects buzzed through the air and birds chirped from somewhere in the distance.
This would have been the setting for the 152nd commencement ceremony, but the COVID-19 pandemic closed the campus in mid-March and students were not able to return. Instead, the administration offered a virtual experience where speeches were pre-recorded and available for viewing graduation morning.
The 52 graduates, who hail from 14 countries and seven states, watched as headmaster Jonathan Lamb stepped onto a stage, in front of the bell tower, as he would have had they all been present that morning.
Lamb spent a good amount of time highlighting the accomplishments of the Class of 2020, even going as far as questioning whether the students could be a version of “The class the stars fell on.” The reference alluded to the 1915 class of the United States Military Academy which included one president and more generals and high-ranking officers than any other class since.
Lamb said the phrase has been used to describe special classes from other schools and colleges. Attaining these accomplishments wasn’t easy, but a necessary step in one’s future endeavors.
“Each of the challenges you have dealt with in the classroom, on the sports field, on stage, or in moments of self-doubt or difficulty — all of this is preparation for what you will do next in pursuit of your dreams,” Lamb said. “The current crisis offers another lesson for each of you.”
He then introduced Dr. Kerryae Monahan, a member of the Class of 1992.
“I had a vision of what this day would look and feel like, and this is so not it,” she began. “I suspect this is something we all have in common; we would much rather be together, on the mountain, celebrating all of the accomplishments of this senior class.”
Monahan reflected on a few of the teachers who influenced her the most and helped guide her on a career path as an educator, scientist, and National Geographic Fellow and Explorer.
“You might not be able to appreciate the gifts that have been handed to you through your education at Storm King School,” Monahan said, “but I promise you, for the rest of your life, those gifts will reappear and I hope you see them, recognize them, and honor them.”
As the senior class prepares to step out into the world, Monahan said their diverse interests will lead them toward many different career paths whether it be on stage, or as lawyers, engineers, writers, educators, politicians, bankers, athletes, scientists, or doctors.
“No matter what you do, do it well, do it with passion, do it with integrity, put people first, and remember we have just this one earth to live on, so make your mark positive,” Monahan said.
“Live life with intention and purpose, after all life is a bit of a ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ story, so you might want to have some ideas for your options.
Prior to the reading of each graduate’s name, Dr. Timothy Lance, dean of academics, read off a list of award winners: The Storm King Scholars – Pierce Pramuka and Kenna Stone; The Riley Cup – John Carruthers and Morgan Papera; The Spy Rock Cup – Matthew Pelton; The Headmaster’s Cup – Naunet Leonhardes-Barboza; The Storm King Cup – Jordan Golding.
Later that day, local students were able to visit the campus to receive their diploma and view the lawn which featured posters of each graduate.
