Page 11 - Priorities #53 2012-June/July

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WORLD!
The Class of 2012 aims to make the world a better place
It finally came. The day that has been 12 years in the making for 63 seniors at Woodside Priory School. Proud parents, family and friends packed the tent on the Father Christopher field to witness the graduation of the class of 2012.
Head of School, Tim Molak, said, “...count your blessings, the Priory and monks are one of them, parents, relatives, and friends, who have supported you, all are bless- ings that come in small doses and size, but nonetheless allow you to be happy and stronger.”
The first student speaker, Maddie Pierson, a devoted volunteer to numerous non- profit and social causes, as well as award-winning cross country and track athlete, said, “..what’s most impressive is the strength and character of our class.” She went on to say, “our classmates have faced personal tragedy, illnesses and other challenging circumstances, yet you showed up, contributed, and did so while bearing the difficul- ties you faced. You have been my heros.”
Head of Upper School, Brian Schlaak, awarded this year’s Valedictorian to Kath- leen Gregory. Kathleen excelled not only in academics, earning a 4.0 average, but also demonstrated exceptional athletic prowess; earning Athlete of the Year three times and is also a three-time Central Coast Section (CCS) champion in cross country.
Alwyn Lansing, the second student speaker said, “I arrived at the Priory and was astounded by the beautiful redwoods, the golden ridge behind the campus, and the chapel on the hill.” She added, “The Priory community not only welcomed me, but also kids from all over the world.”
Mr. Schlaak awarded this year’s Salutatorian to Anthony Shu. Anthony, a member of the 7-year Club, considered by faculty a true renaissance man, managed to couple a formidable capacity in math and the sciences with a love for English and the visual and performing arts. In addition, he is a talented tennis player, and an integral part of both the Chamber and Concert Choirs.
Commencement speaker, Stanford University’s Dean of Freshman, Julie Lythcott- Haims, said, “I have never before been so taken by the resonance between the values of the place and my own... so I thank you for having me.”
Julie gave parents two pieces of wisdom as they prepare to visit their children at college. She said, “...one, urbandictionary.com, it’s your key to linguistic hipness; and two, no matter how groovy the dorm music is when you visit your kid next year, they do not want to see you dance.”
Julie said that what the world needs from everyone, especially the graduates, is to “be not the best version of someone else, but the best version of ourselves,” and to be the best “you” they can be.
“I have never before been so taken by the resonance between the values of the place and my own... so I thank you for having me.” —Julie Lythcott-Haims
Commencement speaker Stanford University’s Dean of Freshman, Julie Lythcott-Haims