Contingent XLVI Celebrated Their Accomplishments at Commencement

Ninety-three students walked down the aisle of Riverside Church to take their places as newly commenced Prep for Prep students ready to succeed at their independent schools. The afternoon began with a recitation of Emily Dickinson’s “‘Hope’ is the thing with feathers” and the songs “Tomorrow” from Annie and the finale of Les Miserables. Master of Ceremonies Michael M. (XLVI/Collegiate) welcomed students and families and congratulated his fellow contingent mates. He introduced the Director of Academic Programs Nikole Smith, who echoed his congratulations. In her remarks, she emphasized the fortitude and togetherness of Contingent XLVI. “Over these 14 months you have learned that success is rarely accidental,” said Nikole. “It is the result of hard work, resilience, and thoughtful preparation.”


There is perhaps no one who can better understand the trials and triumphs of the Preparatory Component as the students who went through those 14 months. Contingent XLVI heard from two of their peers who were by their side through it all: Mason C. (XLVI/Horace Mann) and Zaire D. (XLVI/Hewitt). “If you are here today,” said Ziare, “know that you are not alone. We are a community!”



The ceremony includes the presentation of academic awards which recognize excellence in school subjects like Latin, history, English, and computer science, as well as leadership awards like the Karen LesPierre (I) Award. The Prep for Prep Commencement is full of traditions that alumni recognize. Among them is the signing and transfer of the Prep for Prep Scroll. Before the ceremony takes place, all students who have successfully completed the 14 months sign the scroll as have all contingents before them. During the ceremony, students from Contingent XLVI presented the scroll to representatives from Contingent XLVII.