Bishop Seabury grads step out with style … and a hug

Bishop Seabury Academy graduate Liam Smith gives a bear hug to secretary Betsy Alford during the graduation ceremony Friday for the class of 2009 in the school’s gymnasium. When asked of her position at the school, Alford replied, “I’m the secretary; they’re all my babies.”

For Jefferson Wagner, Bishop Seabury Academy’s graduation Friday was bittersweet.

“I kind of feel empty because I don’t really have anything to do now, but college is starting, so I guess it’ll be filled soon enough,” said Wagner, who will be at Neumont University in Utah studying computer sciences next fall.

Arielle Spiridigliozzi said she is ready to head off to Kansas University. “By the time you’re ready to leave, it’s not like a bird being pushed out of the nest. It feels like you’re ready to go,” Spiridigliozzi said.

After the 13 graduates received their diplomas, they took part in the school’s traditional “Stepping-Up” ceremony. “The faculty comes forward, and then the seniors join the faculty because they’re a part of the alumni. It’s like you’re joining the rest of the world, and then each grade steps up,” Spiridigliozzi explained.

Julia Davidson, attending Macalester College in Minnesota next fall, says the ritual represents the change that every student goes through at the end of the school year. “It’s our chance to finally sit, not among the students anymore, but the audience, and for the rest of the students, it’s about celebrating them as well.”

Valedictorian Jeff Miller, a future Jayhawk, had some advice for his classmates. “It’s really not a matter of what job you get or what title you hold, but are you satisfied with what you have?” Miller said.

Head of School Don Schawang echoed Miller’s feelings. “I hope they have joy in their life. They’re very smart, but I hope they also balance that with taking time to enjoy the world,” Schawang said.