Nearly 200 Eleanor McMain seniors celebrated receiving their diploma at an in-person graduation on July 1, 2020 at the Pontchartrain Convention and Civic Center.
“I know this has not been a normal year, but you made it to this day. It was important to us that each of our students walk across this stage,” InspireNOLA CEO Jamar McKneely. “I’d like to thank the graduating class for all your hard work, your perseverance, and all you’ve accomplished. We look forward to all the accomplishments you will make and all the goals you will accomplish in the future.”
The graduation, which was postponed several weeks due to COVID-19, was split into three events by students’ last names so that restrictions on group size and social distancing could be observed. As safety was top priority, all attendees were required to wear a mask and have their temperature checked before entering the building. Once inside, measures were in place to maintain the recommended six-foot spacing between graduates, family, and friends.
“This school year has proven to be very challenging; however, this class has shown such strong resilience. I would like to share what the acronym C-O-V-I-D means to me: Coming Out Victorious In the midst of Despair,” said Salutatorian Destiny Davis. “There is a hero inside of each and every one of us. It is up to us and no one else, to continue to soar to our highest heights. So, put on your cape and soar high to reach your destiny in life, whatever it may be!”
Valedictorian Catia Gordon said she had dreamt of this day and was honored to represent the graduating Class of 2020.
“We all have learned valuable lessons and created everlasting memories throughout our time at McMain. Now it is time to not only end this journey but start a new one. I know each and every one will go on to be great and always strut McMain excellence,” she said. “Nothing in life will be given; you will have to work hard for anything you want to achieve. Use the same consistency and determination that you have exemplified throughout the years to carry you through life.”
Principal John Green thanks the graduates for “finishing strong and being strong to the finish.”
“Normally at this time I would say congratulations, but this time I am not going to say congratulations. I am going to say thank you for the job you’ve done to get where you’re at. You did, so we did. Because of you, you made all of this happen,” he said. “Job well done!”
Recordings of the event can be viewed on InspireNOLA’s YouTube channel or Facebook page.