Saint Thomas Aquinas graduates face future with hope, optimism

The St. Thomas Aquinas High School community celebrated the graduation of its 50th senior class on Thursday, June 1, with diplomas being conferred during a Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement Ceremony held in Sacred Heart Church, South Plainfield.

Four years ago, the members of this senior class entered as freshmen unaware of the extraordinary circumstances that would forever impact their high school experience.

“This school has produced so many graduates in over 50 years, but you got so much more because of the challenges that you faced; that God is still with us, that God is always for us no matter the challenges that we face,” said Bishop James F. Checchio.

This was the class that lived through the experience of COVID 19. The fastspreading, global pandemic ultimately led to the unprecedented shutdown of in-person classes midway through their freshman year. This was the class that saw their sophomore year continue as a mix of in-person and remote learning.

“You rebounded from a global pandemic to create an unforgettable school year filled with momentous achievements,” said Principal Harry Ziegler. “You had the courage to face a challenging world and pursue your goals without hesitation. You said yes to life. And in doing so, you encourage all of us to do the same.”

This senior class did indeed say “yes” and overcame the unique obstacles placed before them that no other incoming class had experienced. Among the members of the class, 98% will go directly to one of 59 different universities in 12 different states. Others will serve in the military or enter trade schools. Along the way, they found the time to experience high school life and build memories that will last for the rest of their lives.

“Who remembers the friends, coaches, directors, and teachers we met over these four years, who came to be like family, and who will forever be part of each one of our life stories?” asked class president Isabella Danner and vice president Morgan Ryan. “Thank you to everyone who has made the Class of 2023’s high school experience unforgettable. We’re so thankful for the moments, and for everything in between.”

The experience of being the first incoming class to face a hybrid education during a global pandemic is not lost on the members of this special class of graduates. Rather than looking back on what was lost or what might have been, the members of this class wear the experience much like a badge of honor.

“You were most likely not the person you were four years ago. Both the trying times and the joyous experiences have shaped us in many ways, some rather unexpected. We have persevered through many hardships and made it out on the other side,” reflected Sara Murillo, salutatorian.

While the ceremony was filled with the kind of bittersweet emotions that so many come to feel at milestone moments in their lives, the graduates in this class exit with a message of hope and optimism for their future.

“Let us think of today as the beginning of a new chapter in our lives which is filled with infinite possibilities and endless opportunities,” said valedictorian Rajoshi Basu.

“As we spread our wings across the whole country, let us show who we are as St. Thomas alumni by proudly representing the values and lessons we have learned,” he added.

At top, before attending their Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement Ceremony, June 1, St. Thomas Aquinas graduates gathered with friends for photos. At left, Father Michael Tabernero, director of Catholic Identity at the high school, delivers the homily at Mass. At right, Bishop James F. Checchio poses with (left to right): Vice Principal Robert Turco, Interim President Father Keith Cervine, and Principal Harry Ziegler. Bottom, St. Thomas Aquinas graduates, their family and friends fill Sacred Heart Church, South Plainfield where Mass and commencement took place.

Marlo Williamson photos