Southwestern Academy Celebrates 92nd Graduation

Not just another day in San Marino… it was graduation day at Southwestern Academy. The sun was out but it wasn’t too hot. A cool breeze was present, making it an ideal day for Southwestern graduates and their visiting families. Thirty-one 12th graders, adorned Southwestern’s red caps and gowns, while 8th grade students, dressed in blazers, sat anxiously on stage ready for Southwestern Academy’s 92nd graduation and our 8th grade promotion.

Southwestern Academy staff and students greeted friends and families as they arrived on campus. Visitors were escorted to our Chapel for the class of 2016’s Baccalaureate program. Soon after, guests were treated to snacks and drinks before commencement at 12:00 p.m.

The 8th grade class was promoted to high school with the ceremonial “Tradition of the Axe.” The very hand axe that was used by the Southwester’s pioneers to make the first cuts of the orange trees, sits atop a plaque and that plaque is passed from 9th grader to 8th graders each June.

High school graduate strode proudly in two-single file lines behind Headmaster, Mr. Kenneth R. Veronda to present the 2016 graduation plaque, pose for pictures, then sit as composed as possible, as families found their places in our Southwestern Amphitheatre. Sincere speeches were delivered by students, who shared personal experiences about their educational journey while at Southwestern. A few tears were shed, but the tears were happy expressions of gratitude and accomplishment.

Once graduation ceremony was complete the college bound graduates gathered in the middle of Southwestern’s field for photos and to celebrate. All guests were treated to a delicious lunch on campus while our graduates said long goodbyes to their friends, teachers, and to their school. Southwestern was the place where they belonged.

Southwestern Academy, 2800 Monterey Rd., San Marino, (626) 799-5010 or visit www.southwesternacademy.edu.