On June 8, 2008, the 123 members of the Class of 2008 received their diplomas in a graduation ceremony at the Martinsville Campus. The commencement exercise, a culmination of almost two weeks’ worth of senior activities, was attended by all Pingry faculty members, trustees, and the graduates’ families.

Miller Bugliari ’52, the school’s senior-most faculty member, gave the invocation. He encouraged the soon-to-be graduates to think not only of themselves, but also of others as they step out into the world. He encouraged giving back through community service.

Following the address by Class President Taylor Sankovich, Student Body President Jessica Westerman gave a speech in which she encouraged her classmates to “become who you really are,” in the eloquent words of E.E. Cummings.

Valedictorian Evan Rosenman gave the final student speech. He remarked on how the building, faculty, and students shape each person’s Pingry experience, and he encouraged his classmates to network, stay in touch, and change the world. Stressing the tight-knit quality that is a hallmark of the Class of 2008, he first quoted Jack Johnson, saying, “It’s always better when we’re together.” Realizing that as valedictorian he is by definition obligated to “say goodbye,” he quoted Thoreau: “Nothing makes the earth seem so spacious as to have friends at a distance; they make the latitudes and longitudes.”

Retiring faculty member Fred Fayen and departing Chair of the Board of Trustees Vicki Brooks each received The Cyril and Beatrice Baldwin Pingry Family Citizen of the Year Award. Bruce Jacobsen ’78 was then presented with the Letter-in-Life Award, the highest award bestowed upon a Pingry alumnus. In his acceptance speech, he encouraged the graduates to pursue what they love and to have fun at their respective jobs.

Brian O’Toole received the Magistri Laudandi Award for being the student who cares the most about helping others succeed, while Jessica Westerman received The Class of 1902 Emblem Award for having the most commitment to the school.

After students were presented with their diplomas, Headmaster Nat Conard gave some brief departing remarks, and the students and faculty processed out to the sounds of Henry Purcell’s “Trumpet Tune.”

Despite the record-breaking heat, everyone enjoyed the reception outside, as teachers and family members congratulated the students on their graduation and took this final opportunity to be photographed together.



© 2008 The Pingry School