Graduation 2013

On Thursday, June 13th, the Rippowam Cisqua community came together for the School's 96th commencement ceremony.  

 

The arrival of a late spring thunderstorm led the School to hold the event indoors, but it did nothing to dampen the spirits of the gathered guests. Hundreds of parents, grandparents, family members, friends, faculty and staff from both campuses, alumni, and Upper Campus students were on hand to acknowledge and pay tribute to the graduating ninth graders and departing eighth graders. The Lower Gym on the Upper Campus was transformed into the perfect venue for this great RCS tradition. 

 

Remarks were provided by Head of School Matthew Nespole, and Upper Campus Head Bill Barrett, who was selected by the ninth graders to serve as their graduation speaker.

In his message, Mr. Nespole spoke about success, and how it is measured.  "During your time here, I imagine that you have made your first best friend, and tasted your first success as a scholar by acing a test or research paper," Mr. Nespole said. "You've successfully created short stories and poetry. You've successfully solved math equations, conducted several successful science experiments, successfully performed beautiful musical pieces, and done wonderful things as thespians on the stage, and excelled as athletes on the playing fields -- and hopefully you laughed and smiled a great deal along the way. After all, success feels good, and I have no doubt that all of you will continue to experience countless successes in the months and years ahead. But when thinking about success, I find myself drawn to a quote by Albert Einstein who said, 'Try not to become a man of success. Rather, become a man of value'.”   

 

After the graduating ninth graders and departing eighth graders received their certificates, Alumni Association Chairman Christopher Wirth '94 welcomed them into the Alumni Association, and he shared with them that their connection to RCS will remain strong long after they graduate.  

 

A beautiful musical performance from the ninth graders concluded the ceremony, and then all of the graduates and their families, teachers, and friends departed the gym for a host of post-graduation celebrations.  

 

Congratulations to all of the members of the Class of 2013 and the Class of 2014!  The RCS community wishes you all the best as you continue your journey!