Jennifer Buckman

235 girls stood outside of Bellarmine University’s Knights Hall on Saturday, May 17, getting ready to take the next step in their young lives. Dressed in all white, the girls processed into the gymnasium and down to the floor to take their seats.

The ceremony began with a prayer from Gloria Thornburg, theology teacher, which was then followed by a speech made by Mary Margaret Ralph, theology teacher, who was elected by the class to speak. She started by telling the Class of 2014 how much she loves them and how her love is not a “cheesy” love. She went on to tell stories of experiences she has had with the class. The stories ranged from Claire James and Lizzie Truscott baking pies together to WingMan Tang getting rides to school from Kayla Roby.

“It just doesn’t make sense. It’s Jesus love!” stated Ralph after each story she told.

She explained to the crowd how different the girls were and how it was “Jesus love” because of how they came together to help each other even though they barely knew one another.

“Continue to love in all the ways that make no sense,” said Ralph as she ended her speech.

The graduates stood to give her an ovation as she sat down and Elaine Salvo, president, stood to begin calling names for the presentation of diplomas. Each graduate walked on the stage by themselves, had their name announced, and shook hands with Becky Henle, principal, who then handed them their diploma.

After all diplomas were given, family and friends rose to cheer on the newly graduated Class of 2014.

At the end of the ceremony, graduates processed out of the gymnasium to the exterior of the building. They all gathered in a big group and with huge smiles and laughter, threw their caps up into the air to commemorate their graduation.