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To Our Beautiful Daughter Dejah

You are our greatest gift from God. You’ve been wise beyond your years and an old soul since birth. Always
remember that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. Let your Spirit guide you beyond
your wildest dreams, desires, and expectations. We’ve raised you now it’s your time to fly.

Love you over the moon and back,

Mom and Dad

To My Only Grandchild

Nurturing and watching you grow has been filled with joy and delight. I’m so proud of the young woman
you’ve blossomed into. Never forget your ancestors. I love you my darling.

Mae Mae

Debutante Dejah Simone Hilliard

Miss Dejah Simone Hilliard, daughter of Cedric Hilliard and Deirdre Williams, (1979 Deb) is presented by her
father. She is a senior scholar-athlete at the Head-Royce School in Oakland, California. She is a four-year member
of the Women’s Varsity Volleyball team and the Black Student Union. Dejah is also a member of The Key Club. In
addition, she holds the distinction of being a “lifer”, having attended the Head-Royce School since Kindergarten.
She participates in the school’s FADE Dance productions and has served as a Student Ambassador for prospective
HRS students. She enjoys mentoring African-American girls in the Lower and Middle Schools, empowering them
by providing an outlet for self-expression and helping them embrace their identity. She loves to travel and
most recently explored the country of Costa Rica, where she engaged in community service at the Sea Turtle
Project and the Animal Reserve Center. She also volunteers often at the Alameda County Food Bank, Hopalong
Animal Rescue, Vincent Academy, and Rebuilding Together Oakland. In her spare time, she enjoys rollerblading,
singing, creating art projects for neighborhood youth, babysitting, and Soul Food Sundays with family. She takes
enormous pride in accompanying her 93 year old grandmother to North Oakland Missionary Baptist Church on
Sundays. Upon graduation, Dejah desires to attend Howard University, where she will be the third generation in
her family to matriculate there. She plans to pursue a major in Psychology with the hope to fulfill her dream of
a private practice.

Miss Dejah Simone Hilliard is escorted by Mr. Harrison Bryce Harvey

128 | 59th Oakland Bay Area Links Cotillion