Farewell, Class of 2020! While the end of their John Carroll career was arguably the most unique one in our history, the Class of 2020 transitioned to alumni with grace and strength as a class. Even with their school year cut short, they still contributed a combined 16,954 service hours and 54% took one or more AP courses. We were able to celebrate their great accomplishments through a virtual awards ceremony, giving recognition to this well-deserving class. Senior Retreat happened online, and our graduates heard the wise words from Dean of Students Mr. Sean Ireton, “Listen to your heart. Use common sense. Trust yourself, but always allow room to grow and change your mind. You are a work in progress. It’s not about the things that you want to have, but what you want to give.”
Administration visited every senior at home, checking in on them (socially distanced, of course!) and delivering their caps and gowns, yearbooks and senior banners. The Alumni Association followed up by delivering a special gift to each senior. Ultimately, we were able to host an outdoor, socially distanced graduation and officially celebrate the class of 2020, to the delight of 152 Patriot families. We are so proud of our graduates who are now attending 83 colleges in 25 different states, and we cannot wait to hear about their next adventures!
Seniors reminisce on an unforgettable end to their John Carroll experience:
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Despite what this pandemic has done to the world, I strongly believe that we will get through this together. — Michael Chipi ’20
The love at the heart of every John Carroll tradition was so entirely evident. So while the end of our senior year is like none other, so too are these memories. They are ours to last a lifetime, our stories to share and hold. — Katie Yurechko ’20
I feel that the administration dealt with this setback very well and in a very professional manner. They were very quick to update us with new information when they got it. — Jesse Norwood ’20
One of the hardest things for me to accept is that our high school career is going to end. I learned to appreciate the good things in life and never take anything for granted. I learned how much I love John Carroll and how much I don’t want to leave. — Sam Mink ’20
This Senior Project, and this whole year, has been very different, but I am glad that John Carroll has made the best of it and has made sure we remained a family. — Sara Hammons ’20
Senior year is going to end. I am sure that it is not a perfect end for seniors this year, but it must be a most special and unforgettable one. — Lei Huang ’20
CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE • Fall 2020
