Graduation 2021

TITLE GRADUATION 2021 CONGRATULATIONS

Classof2021!

Despite a year filled with difficult circumstances, barriers and struggles, the Class of 2021 crossed the finish line. The graduation events began with Senior Awards on June 3 followed by our Baccalaureate Mass which was celebrated on June 5 on Monsignor Walter E. Nolan Field. The graduation ceremony took place on June 6 at CURE Insurance Arena.

In his welcome to the graduates and their families at the 61st Commencement Exercise, President Ken Jennings told the class, “You will be remembered for your perseverance, steadfast commitment to reach the goal, to graduate from Notre Dame High School on this 6th day of June 2021.” Reiterating that sentiment, Principal Joanna Barlow said, “Class of 2021, how far you have come and how much has happened. In James 1:12 we are told, Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life. Class of 2021, you have remained steadfast under trial. Class of 2021, you are our hope.” In describing the class, Mrs. Barlow offered this quote from Christopher Robin who told Winnie the Pooh, “You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” Certainly, they have been the definition of Irish Strong. In her speech, Chase Davino ’21, Valedictorian, told her classmates, “It would be easy to talk at length about the trials and tribulations of the pandemic and how it disrupted our final two high school years—but not today. Today we are celebrating our graduation.” Salutatorian Trent Collins ’21 took the class on a trip down memory lane recalling many fond memories throughout their four years at Notre Dame. Both graduates echoed the sentiment that they could not have achieved all they did without the support and love of the administration, faculty and staff. Trent said, “Fortunately for us we have many “lights” in the ND community that spread love and kindness and help us overcome the challenges the past four years have brought.” In a final farewell to the class, Principal Barlow told the graduates, “Thank you for all you have done as loving members of the Notre Dame Family. You are our Father’s gift to this world.”

Notre Dame is very proud of our Class of 2021 and

its accomplishments. The following awards were presented at the graduation ceremony on June 6.

AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN RELIGION

Olivia Rae Okupski ’21 [Gold Medal, Gift of the Most Reverend George W. Ahr, S.T.D.]

PRINCIPAL’S AWARD

Trent Michael Collins ’21 and Lauren Elizabeth Lencovich ’21

IRISH SPIRIT AWARD

Maeve Lily Evanovich ’21