Tribute to Our Newest Alumni

Celebrating

THE CLASS OF 2020

“THIS IS MY HOME, BUT WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL IS THAT THIS IS OUR HOME.” – JOCELYN ANDREWS, VALEDICTORIAN

For the 136 members of the Class of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic not only cut short on-campus learning, but threatened the loss of treasured milestone events. While everything from spring sports to prom had to be canceled, the Episcopal community knew that Commencement—in some form— must be held. It would have to be delayed a full month due to state restrictions on large gatherings. It would have to look very different than ceremonies of the past to keep families safe. However, the resulting event would be a testament to the grit, resilience, and spirit of our incredible senior class. Greville Haslam Head of School Dr. T.J. Locke welcomed families as they gathered for the 235th Commencement exercises on Saturday, July 11. At this outdoor event, students sat with their parents a safe six-foot distance from other families; trios of chairs dotting the full expanse of the Clark Campus Green on the only sunny day of the weekend. “We are all very proud of you and grateful that each and every one of you came to this school,” shared Dr. Locke. “We have missed you dearly these last few months. A school campus without students is a very lonely and uninteresting place.” Valedictorian Jocelyn Andrews and salutatorian Erin Boyle highlighted the challenges the Class of 2020 has faced and the unique traits that define their class. Jocelyn Andrews told her classmates, “For our class, the rose-colored glasses that so often tint high school memories with a unique nostalgia were pulled off early. The question was, how would we respond? And, as we had long been taught by Episcopal, we responded to defeat with grace.” Erin Boyle recalled the day she toured EA as a prospective student and her four years in Upper School. “I was excited to come to school every day because of the incredible community and sense of home I had, every time I turned around the circle,” recalled Erin. “[It was] the little memories you were making without even knowing you were making them.” Senior members of the Vocal Ensemble serenaded attendees with a moving rendition of Rivers and Roads, and, before presenting 24 senior awards, Head of Upper School Mike Letts, Hon. reminded the class “to always believe in yourselves as much as we believe in you.” “What truly defines our class…and what Episcopal has taught us, is our response to defeats, disappointments, and setbacks. Failing to acknowledge that COVID-19 was a source of various disappointments for our class would be remiss. However, this particular setback, and Episcopal’s response, have made evident so many of EA’s greatest gifts to the Class of 2020,” remarked Jocelyn. “This is my home, but what makes it special is that this is our home. That is a feeling that is very rare, and we are very lucky to have found here…especially at such a young age.” The ceremony ended with an instrumental version of Episcopal, Episcopal. “So much joy, so much school spirit, you have given us indelible memories,” said Dr. Locke. “We look forward to learning even more from you for many years to come. Thank you for all that you have given to our school.” While the Class of 2020’s Commencement exercises looked very different, they achieved their purest purpose. Seniors were finally able to celebrate their shared experiences as EA students—at a distance, but together.