WCDS Holds Graduation For Class of 2020

Westchester Country Day School celebrated its 49th commencement on Aug. 1 at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church. Postponed into the summer due to COVID-19, the ceremony recognized 25 graduates. All of the graduates were accepted to at least one college or university and have plans to continue their education this fall.

The Class of 2020 submitted a total of 144 applications to 62 colleges and universities across the country. Collectively, they have been offered about $2 million in scholarships and awards.

While there were some differences in the ceremony due to health considerations, including limited attendance, wearing masks and social distancing, many of the special Westchester commencement traditions carried forward. This included Westchester’s touching way of honoring graduates. Faculty members selected by the graduates shared personal reflections when they came forward to receive their diplomas. Graduates marched in and out to a bagpipe and organ duet.

Valedictorian Caroline Clodfelter, who plans to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, delivered an address to the class encouraging them to live selflessly in support of others.

“As students, we have faced many obstacles, but we have also been given a great gift,” said Clodfelter. “We have been given the opportunity to be a part of something greater than ourselves. Westchester has taught us that we all have the opportunity to create change and selflessly support those in need. We may often be unaware of the impact we have had on others just by carrying out one simple act of good.”

For her salutatorian address, Deni Lewis, who will attend North Carolina State University, reflected on the common experiences of her class.

“The Class of 2020 is currently standing on the edge of their next chapter preparing not only to enter college in a few short weeks but also getting ready to delve headfirst into new pages of which no one knows the true narrative,” she said. “While the future seems uncertain, our past experiences prepared us for this moment. We are ready to expect the unexpected.”