C 0 MMEN CEMEN T
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n the evening of July 30, 2020, the Class of 2020 returned to the Hopkins campus for a unique commencement ceremony, one never before seen at Hopkins. The socially distanced, limited capacity event was held on Pratt Field, with 145 chairs for the graduates, spaced six feet apart, laid before a stage. Behind the chairs, the families of the graduates sat in parked cars to watch the proceedings on four large video screens. The ceremony began with a recorded performance of “Pomp and Circumstance” by the Hopkins Orchestra, while the Class of 2020 processed from Smilow Field into the assembled chairs, to the honks and cheers from the gallery of cars. Speakers included Rev. Thom Peters, Priest-in-charge of the Christ Episcopal Church of Bethlehem, as well as Hopkins School Archivist and History teacher, who gave the invocation. C. Burton Lyng-Olsen ’20 gave the Salutatory address and presented the Class Banner. Kyle Shin ’20 gave the Valedictory address before Head of School Dr. Bynum addressed the class and their families. The Presentation of Diplomas was conducted by Dr. Bynum; Vince Calarco, President of the Committee of Trustees; and Scott Wich ’89, Class of 2020 Head Adviser. Each member of the Class of 2020 received their diploma by walking across the stage, celebrating the culmination of their hard work and perseverance in a school year like no other. The ceremony also included several recorded performances by the Hopkins choir groups, accompanied by live soloists. To watch this unique ceremony in full, please visit hopkinsseniors.com
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Spring 2021 | VIEWS FROM THE HILL
