Speeches from Salutatorian Nicole Bahar ’18, the first female Salutatorian in 12 years, and Valedictorian Vivian Liu ’18 highlighted the class of 2018’s commencement ceremony Friday.

Bahar recalled a number of humorous experiences she had during high school and also noted the lack of equal representation among women for Salutatorian. Liu likened her high school experience to a painter’s canvas, and she encouraged those around her to embrace uncertainty and pursue genuine interests.

President Rick Commons awarded the Veritas award to Princie Kim ’18, for her achievements in academics and dance, and the Bishop’s Award Axel Rivera De Leon ’18, for his athletic and academic accomplishments.

Chaplain James Young began the event by delivering the invocation and saying prayers. Commons gave a speech thanking Young for his years at the school and noting the social endeavors of the class of 2018, such as electing a same-sex prom court and demanding conservative speakers for assemblies. 

To close the event Commons awarded diplomas to members of the graduating class as Associate Head of School Liz Resnick read the names of the students.