A graduate of the Charlotte Amalie High School Class of 2022 expresses himself with excitement after receiving his diploma. By. REEMY-REEMZ PHOTOGRAPHY/VICONSORTIUM
The Charlotte Amalie High School on Friday graduated 191 students, among them 102 honor achievers. The group, which called themselves the“Tried, Tested and Proven True; Multifaceted Class of 2022” earned a collective $1,175,000 in scholarships, and they were as proud and vibrant as any of other high school classes this year.
Friday's graduation ceremony was the school's 91st commencement event, according to school principal April B. Petrus.
A common theme this year was the students' determination to overcome difficult odds, chief among them the global Covid-19 pandemic. CAHS was no different, with everyone from administration officials to students highlighting the triumph. “Nothing will keep us down, we will rise and soar above all challenges. Class of 2022, I charge you to make a difference in this world and always stay true to yourself," Ms. Petrus said.
St. Thomas-St. John District Superintendent Stephan Jurgen, stated, ““How many of you felt like you were in a state of despair? I know for me when they told me that I needed to present 5,500 students with 400 laptops, it was a stressful, stressful period. There is a body of students right in front of us today that stayed the course. That did not throw in the towel, that did not quit, and for that I honor you and give you credit.”
As with the other graduation events this year, Education Commissioner Racquel Berry-Benjamin continued to convey her message through the lyrics of USVI Reggae Artist, Pressure Busspipe, this time using the words of Be Free. Pressure, she said, graduated from a public high school in the territory.
Governor Albert Bryan's speech was mostly focused on what he said were the privileges of living in the U.S. Virgin Islands. “Remember, you live in a very special place, with a very special blessing under that American flag. With a lot of opportunities in front of you. Take every bit of it," he encouraged.
Valedictorian Jalleigah David told her fellow classmates to chart their own course. “Class of 2022, to accomplish remarkable things we must not only act but dream. Stay true to yourself. Don’t let life lead you, you lead life and be the pilot of your destiny.” Salutatorian Shaudàe Richardson motivated the class to "make a lasting impression."
Dr. Nicole Craigwell-Syms, keynote address speaker, inspired the class to use the experiences of life to find their true selves. "You see, young adult life in any form is one of the most dazzling and memorable experiences we can face. The purpose of your life is to face each challenge, every test, as a chance for you to become the person that you are meant to be."
She added. "Success is a single dish, not a platter. It is a single calling not a conference call.
