Congratulations to the Class of 2013
Photo: Phil Cantor Photography
In the final celebration of its 125th Anniversary Year, Montclair Kimberley Academy graduated 106 seniors during its Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, June 9, at 3:00 p.m. at the First Congregational Church in Montclair.
Faculty and trustees led the procession of the Class of 2013 graduates, and Upper School Campus Head School Dr. David Flocco gave the welcome address, noting that: “Family’ is the word most often used by you to describe your class. I tend to agree … You have been through more trial, heartache and pain at the Upper School than perhaps any class in recent memory ... But, it’s you who kept us going –who brought us back from the abyss a stronger, more cohesive ‘family’ unit.”
Seniors Edward Bozik and Zoe Ferguson then addressed their Class. In looking to the future, Bozik advised: ” Don’t hold on to how you think things are going to be – because that really never holds up. Try to stay open to new ideas or situations you may not have dealt with before. Don’t be defined by just one aspect of who you are. Take advantage of all the great opportunities that will be on all of the campuses where we are going …There will be struggles and mistakes to overcome, but it is OK to make some wrong turns as long as we keep moving forward.”
Ferguson reflected on the bonds forged by tragedy: “We have lost beloved faculty, staff, and friends, and we have mourned these losses. But instead of staying in bed and refusing to confront reality, we have faced it head-on. I have never met a group of individuals so diverse, and yet so cohesive when it comes to times of crisis. We have dealt with loss and dealt with it well, proving to be responsible and kind leaders every one. We look out for each other because we care.”
Headmaster Thomas W. Nammack, was the last speaker to address the Class, saying: “What has impressed me is the sense that I get, for each of you, of the family you brought with you to MKA and the family that you have built while you have been at MKA. In combination, these are your companions for the life you lead from here.” He then joined Board of Trustees President Michael V. Johnson in awarding the diplomas, together with six faculty members and thirteen trustees, who as parents of seniors, participated in the tradition of awarding their own children their diplomas.
Student Council President Kira Farris and Senior Class President Emma Layton delivered the closing remarks, and officially concluded the ceremony by ringing the Montclair Academy bell, which dates back a century.
Click here to see photos from the day.