St. Patrick Catholic Academy congratulates Class of 2014
By Paula Katinas
Brooklyn Daily Eagle
Ready to move on to high school, eighth graders at Saint Patrick Catholic Academy in Bay Ridge received their diplomas at a graduation ceremony on June 13, where Principal Andrea D’Emic encouraged them to always be their authentic selves as they embrace new experiences in high school and beyond.
Prior to receiving their diplomas and awards, the graduates celebrated mass at Saitn Patrick Catholic Church with their families, teachers and D’Emic. The Rev. Msgr. Michael Hardiman, pastor of St. Patrick Church, celebrated the mass. The academy, at 401 97th St., is located next door to the church.
Class of 2014 Valedictorian Jessica Hui and Salutatorian Tiana Eladem each shared memories of their time at St. Patrick in their addresses and thanked the teachers who guided them along the way. Later on, Tiana received a certificate for having perfect attendance.
Applause rang out at several points during the graduation when awards were presented to students who had excelled in particular subjects, from math and science to the arts.
Joseph Langley, chairman of the academy’s Board of Directors, presented the Mary Lou Langley Essay Scholarship Award to Louis DeSalvatore. The award is named for Langley’s late sister Mary Lou, who was killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attack at the World Trade Center.
Following the graduation ceremony, families and teachers gathered in the school auditorium for brunch during which more awards were presented to graduates who had participated in such activities as the yearbook, drama club, athletics, chorus, orchestra, Girl Scouts and altar service. Students who were named to the honor society were also honored.
Eighth-grade teacher Gina Keenan read excerpts from her journal chronicling her memorable moments with the students throughout the school year.
Then it was time for a slideshow that presented highlights of each student’s journey from kindergarten through graduation.