By Jodie Aakko – Brighton, Colorado …”Hi Mom, I made it!” seemed to be the catchphrase among the Brighton Adventist Academy graduates at their graduation ceremony on May 19.
The evening served up the standard fare of diplomas, balloons, photographs, cake, and punch, yet a BAA graduation is much more. Teachers took time to acknowledge the students’ shining qualities and expressed their love and admiration for each graduate. Wayne Morrison, pastor of Brighton church encouraged the each student to go forth and be God’s disciple, since they have soundly learned that they are a child of God.
Addressing the graduates, Molly Santana, member of the Brighton church and commencement co-speaker said, “You have met some challenges to get where you are today. The pandemic has made you stronger, and you are a better person because you persevered,”
Carlos Santana, member of the Brighton church and commencement co-speaker highlighted his wife’s charge to the class by saying, “Don’t forget that God loves you no matter what, and with God, you can do anything. In the same way that God has helped me, He will help you.”
Students also shared testimonies of gratitude to their parents, teachers, and friends for making it possible for them to reach this milestone.
The class selected Joshua 1:9 as their Scripture verse. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged, For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
BAA administration has one final message for the graduating class of 2021: “Well done, Students. Choose strength and courage always. God has chosen you to do His work. Go. Be everything for God.”
Among those receiving their diplomas included Shaun Alexander, Omar Castaneda, Hannah Lechleitner, Felipe Quintana Baca, Nathaniel Ramirez, and Vashty Segovia Santos.
–Jodie Aakko is the principal of Brighton Adventist Academy; photo courtesy of Brighton Adventist Academy Facebook page.
