K1N6DOM’S RE16N Comes to an End

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Class of 2016 graduated Thursday, June 2 at DAR Constitution Hall.

Senior Class President Hazel Carmona began the ceremony with opening remarks. Her speech highlighted the growth of the class of 2016.

Senior Class Vice President Johnathan Garcia introduced commencement speaker and WTTG Fox 5 DC news anchor Wisdom Martin. He shared advice that his parents taught him while growing up.

“As in life, you will learn that lots of things that happen to you are learning experiences that you will live, learn and grow from,” Martin said. “When you’re out there, working hard, nothing in life worth having comes easy. You have to work for it.”

Chorus teacher Lindsay Hein and instrumental music director Phil Barnes led performances throughout the ceremony.

SGA President Adam Sarsony discussed success in his farewell remarks and shared stories of graduates that can be seen as successful in different ways.

“People have lived and died, thinking that success and happiness can be achieved safely,” Sarsony said. “But this is a lie. Your full potential won’t come to you. You have to go out, [take] risks and [accept that not all] will work in your favor.”

Principal Billie-Jean Bensen and Montgomery County BOE member Rebecca Smondrowski made final remarks before the roll call of graduates began. Distinguished guests such as Smondrowski and Chief Operating Officer Andrew Zuckerman were among those who helped with the presentation of the diplomas.

In honor of deceased classmate Billy Camut, his father Albert Camut walked across the stage to accept Camut’s diploma. Guests and graduates applauded with a standing ovation.

“… Stick to [your] plan because you, class of 2016, are the movers and the shakers,” Martin said. “You will shake the world.”